The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_League_Cricket">Major League Cricket</a>, MLC 2024 is knocking at the doorstep, as the second edition of the tournament begins on Saturday. With its inaugural season played in 2023, the MI New York were the standout performers in the league and went on to be the champions under skipper Nick Pooran, who played a stunning hand in their title victory. With some very crucial signings, especially with the drafting of several Australian maestros ahead of the 2nd edition, the MLC will be a contest worth witnessing. With a new set of players, along with the retained players from the first season, let?s take a look at the Top 5 batters who stand a chance to score the highest runs ahead of MLC 2024.



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#top-5-batters-who-stand-a-chance-to-score-the-highest-runs-ahead-of-mlc-2024">Top 5 batters who stand a chance to score the highest runs ahead of MLC 2024</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#marcus-stoinis">Marcus Stoinis</a></li><li class=""><a href="#quinton-de-kock">Quinton de Kock</a></li><li class=""><a href="#j-fraser-mc-gurk">J.Fraser-McGurk</a></li><li class=""><a href="#nicholas-pooran">Nicholas Pooran</a></li><li class=""><a href="#travis-head">Travis Head</a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="top-5-batters-who-stand-a-chance-to-score-the-highest-runs-ahead-of-mlc-2024">Top 5 batters who stand a chance to score the highest runs ahead of MLC 2024</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="marcus-stoinis">Marcus Stoinis</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Marcus-Stoinis.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142366" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Stoinis roped in by Texas Super Kings for MLC 2024 (image: CricTracker)</figcaption></figure>
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The Texas Super Kings have drafted the big Australian for their 2024 MLC campaign. The last time semifinalists had already had quite some spectacular performers in their team sheets, while Stoinis will be an in-form inclusion to the side. The big Australian was a commanding performer in the Indian Premier League and also performed overwhelmingly for his national side in the T20 World Cup. Stoinis, who has evolved to be a middle-order batter, letting go of his role as a finisher has helped sides retain him, and his evolving bowling skills are a cherry on top. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="quinton-de-kock">Quinton de Kock</h3>



The South African veteran, who announced his retirement from the Tests and ODIs, has been a constant surprise in the shortest format of the game. He has been a part of every global T20 league since he stopped featuring for the Proteas. Playing for the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle_Orcas">Seattle Orcas</a>, QDK scored 264 runs, averaging a brilliant 44 in the 7 games of the tournament. He is one of the most worthy retentions of the MLC 2024, and his contributions are supposed to be of great value to his team. In short, the veteran can once again be found among the top scorers of the league. 



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="j-fraser-mc-gurk">J.Fraser-McGurk</h3>



The hard-hitting youngster from Australia is now gaining the status of a world-class T20 batter due to his fearless stride and fast run-scoring in the powerplay, for which he has often received praise and recognition from players around the world. 



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Fraser-McGurk.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142364" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IPL done, MLC next on the cards for young McGurk (Image: Cricket Australia)</figcaption></figure>
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 Featuring for the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2024, McGurk was one of the very reasons the Capitals bounced back in the later stages of the competition. Though he was not the most consistent performer, he added fire to the innings whenever he got going in the powerplay. Such will be his role, as the 21-year-old is about to make his debut in yet another league featuring players of global standard. Picked by the San Francisco Unicorns, McGruk will be most probably seen alongside Finn Allen, and together they can be the most explosive opening pair of MLC 2024. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="nicholas-pooran">Nicholas Pooran</h3>



The West Indies wk-bat has been a constant performer over the recent few years, in whichever league he has played in. From playing in the IPL for Lucknow Super Giants to making vital contributions to his team?s score in the T20 World Cup, Pooran is one of the most reliable batters to keep your cards on. The small-packet dynamite is often seen hitting massive sixes; it was his blistering knock of 137 runs on just 55 balls that included 13 sixes, which took MI New York over the line, and they went on to be the champions of the debut season. Not only MI New York but the entire cricket world would hope to witness such brilliance from the Windies batter. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="travis-head">Travis Head</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Travis-Head-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142363" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Head all set to feature for Washington Freedom (Image: Times of India)</figcaption></figure>
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The Washington Freedom have reformed their squad with several inclusions, especially from Australia and New Zealand. They named Steven Smith the captain, alongside drafting players like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachin_Ravindra">Rachin Ravindra</a>, and Lockie Ferguson. Head has been the proclaimed best batter in the world since his heroics in the World Cup final for Australia last year. Head?s century earned immense recognition for him, and he went on to feature for IPL runner-up Sunrisers Hyderabad and was their highest scorer, scoring above 550 runs. His inclusion in the MLC can only add a great batting scope to the Freedom squad as well as the Major League Cricket. He can be the first choice to be the most probable highest run-getter in this edition of the MLC.

Top 5 batters who can be the highest run-getters in MLC 2024

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The Major League Cricket, or MLC, is one of America's biggest tournaments of the sport. Inaugurated in 2023, the first season saw 6 teams in the competition who will also participate in the 2nd edition of the league in 2024. The inaugural season saw many twists on their route to the finals, as the group stages featured 6 teams, of which the MI New York were ranked fourth behind the Seattle Orcas, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Freedom_(cricket)">Washington Fire</a>, and Texas Super Kings, all of which advanced into the knockouts in the first season. However, then began MI New York?s one-sided domination of the MLC knockouts, as they won on 3 occasions till the finals, where Pooran dominated against the Seattle Orcas side, who were unbeaten till the finals but had to bow down their heads in front of Pooran?s heroic antics. With several changes in the squads of different teams of the Major League Cricket, let?s have a good look at who can be the probable contenders for the cup. 



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#top-contenders-for-the-mlc-2024-trophy">Top Contenders for the MLC 2024 Trophy</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#mi-new-york">MI New York</a></li><li class=""><a href="#seattle-orcas">Seattle Orcas</a></li><li class=""><a href="#san-francisco-unicorns">San Francisco Unicorns </a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="top-contenders-for-the-mlc-2024-trophy">Top Contenders for the MLC 2024 Trophy</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="mi-new-york">MI New York</h3>



With not many changes to their squad from their last year?s campaign, the defending champions can be one of the favorites to retain their grip over the trophy. Under Kieron Pollard?s leadership, once again, MI New York will be seen as the prime contender for the cup. A stunning bunch of batters, including Nicholas Pooran, Tim David, the USA skipper Monank Patel, and skipper Pollard. However, the power-packed side lays its heart in the all-rounders, who are world-class talents featuring in all global leagues of the world. With the likes of Romario Shepherd and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rashid_Khan">Rashid Khan</a>, MI New York will have the best probable bowling lineup of the tournament that comprises Rabada, Boult, and Nortje?s brilliance and experience. 



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/MLC-2023-MI-New-York-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142426" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">MI New York the champions of the debut season (Image: ESPNcricinfo)</figcaption></figure>
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 With the Afghan skipper having led his national side to their first-ever semi-final just weeks ago, the beginning of the MLC, he will be their most dependable option to look at in their quest for defending the title. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="seattle-orcas">Seattle Orcas</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Seattle-Orcas-1024x534.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142427" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The runners-up will be looking forward to win the title this time (Image: Cricket Times)</figcaption></figure>
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The runners-up from the last season of the MLC will look to fancy their chances at the title this time around. The runners-up too did not make many changes to the squad, as the team would still rely on South African batters Quinton de Kock and Henrich Klaasen. The two veteran batters are informed without any doubt, while Aaron Jones will be an equally convincing addition alongside all-rounders Imad Wasim and Bracewell, who are all set to feature for the first time in the MLC. With the likes of Burger and McCoy in the Seattle lineup led by the experience of Wayne Parnell, the Seattle Orcas might look to have another terrific run in the tournament just like the edition of MLC 2023. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="san-francisco-unicorns">San Francisco Unicorns </h3>



The Unicorns did not have the best of starts to their MLC legacy, as they failed to advance into the knockouts of the MLC 2024. However, with several additions to the squad, they are a new unit and may look forward to turning their fortunes in the Cup. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Cummins-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142428" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Unicorns robe in Cummins for the MLC 2024 (Image: Sportstar - The Hindu)</figcaption></figure>
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 Despite the inclusion of Australian ODI and test captain Pat Cummins, Corey Anderson has been picked to serve the role of a skipper for the San Francisco Unicorns. A very worthy and power-packed batting unit that is all set to fire with the in-form Allen, Fraser McGurk, and Rutherford. All three will be seen giving their bests alongside Short and Inglis, who are also about to make their debut in the competition. Cummins will lead their bowling unit alongside Haris Rauf and Matt Henry, and owing to the pitches of the United States, these bowlers who produce immense variations can be an asset in the Cup for the side. They led by Anderson and guided by Cummins will look to go beyond teams like the Washington Freedom and the Texas Super Kings, who, despite having a great bunch of players, might not have the quality to advance into the knockouts of the game.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-5-international-stars-who-retired-from-international-t20s-post-world-cup-2024/">Top 5 international stars who retired from international T20s post-World Cup 2024</a>

Top 3 contenders for the MLC 2024 trophy

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The MLC 2024 is underway, and MI New York initiated their campaign with a comfortable victory over the Seattle Orcas in the tournament's opening game. However, in their second match against a reformed Washington Freedom side, they faced a major backlash earlier in the tournament. Ex-Australian captain <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Smith_(cricketer)">Steven Smith</a> has been signed in as the new skipper for Washington Freedom for MLC 2024. After a T20 World Cup squad snub, the veteran batter would be looking to prove his worth in the format. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Veterans-Antics-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142642" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Spectacular Smith commands in rain-affected chase (Image: myKhel)</figcaption></figure>
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 Washington Freedom won the toss and put the defending champions to bat on a sloppy track. The MINY side started on a weak note as their top-order tumbled with only Nicholas Pooran building a slight partnership alongside opener Clinton, who fell to Maxwell in the 8th over while looking to play an unconventional short. Nicholas Pooran was the pick of the batters for MI New York, scoring 44 runs. While big-hitters Tim David and Kieron Pollard failed to produce anything, it took a 15-ball, 31-run knock from Afghan skipper Rashid Khan that took the defending champions to a fighting total of 154. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Khan-stars-with-the-Bat-this-time-for-MI-New-York-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142641" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Khan stars with the Bat this time for MI New York (Image: Cricbuzz.com)</figcaption></figure>
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ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-5-bowlers-who-can-be-the-highest-wicket-taker-of-mlc-2024/">Top 5 bowlers who can be the highest wicket-taker of MLC 2024</a> In reply to this, the Australian duo of skipper Steve Smith and, in form, Travis Head stepped in on the field for the Washington Freedom. The start was not convincing as Head fell to Ehsan Adil in the second over. Smith, alongside American World Cup star Gous, didn?t seem to get going until Nortje came to bowl in the powerplay. The Australian veteran took South Africa?s leading wicket-taker in the World Cup for 22 runs, hitting 2 fours and 2 sixes of him.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/WAF-MLC-2024-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142640" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Smith and Gous guide WAF scoreboard to 4 runs over DLS par score (Image: Times of India)</figcaption></figure>
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 That is what got the Freedom scoreboard going, and Gous hit 2 consecutive boundaries of Rashid Khan to take Freedom to 55/1 in the 8th over when rain forced the players to head out of the ground. Lightning and thunder alongside dense showers denied further play, as the Washington Freedom had the final laugh as they secured a win over the defending champions with a 4-run advantage over the DLS par score. This is their first victory of the season under new skipper Steven Smith.

MLC 2024: Smith leads by example in Washington Freedom?s rain-hit victory over defending champions

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ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The ICC has officially confirmed the hybrid model for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and team India is all set to compete in this prestigious tournament! While fans eagerly await the BCCI's official squad announcement, the excitement is already building. In the meantime, let’s dive into a thrilling prediction of India’s probable squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a cricketing spectacle, scheduled from February 19 to March 9. Hosted across Pakistan and Dubai, this prestigious tournament will feature eight top teams battling it out in 15 thrilling matches.
India, captained by Rohit Sharma, finds itself in Group A alongside Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. All of India’s matches will be played in Dubai, starting with an exciting opener against Bangladesh on February 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
With political factors shaping the tournament’s venues, India’s Dubai campaign adds a distinct flair. Fans are set for a rollercoaster of action, with iconic rivalries, unforgettable moments, and nail-biting drama expected throughout the Champions Trophy 2025.
Following a grueling five-match Test series against Australia, India will focus on this high-pressure tournament. Packed with experience and young talent, the Men in Blue are geared up to showcase their dominance on the world stage.
Here’s a glimpse at India’s likely squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
<h2>India’s Probable Squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
Top-Order Stars: Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal are the front-runners to open India’s innings, with Shubman Gill waiting in the wings as a strong backup. Known for their consistency in ODIs, these players are expected to give India a flying start at the top.
Reliable Middle-Order: The middle order is set to shine with the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant. Rahul, who proved his mettle in the lower middle order during the 2023 ODI World Cup, is likely to be a key player once again. The explosive Surya Kumar Yadav and young talent Dhruv Jurel may also feature, adding depth and versatility to India’s batting lineup.
Dynamic All-Rounders and Spinners: Either of Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy will lead the charge as all-rounders, bringing balance to the squad. In the spin department, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to shoulder the responsibility, with their knack for breaking partnerships and keeping the pressure on.
Formidable Pace Attack: The fast-bowling unit will be headlined by Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami. Shami’s experience and skill make him a strong pick, despite limited appearances post the ODI World Cup. Rising stars like Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana could also earn spots, injecting fresh energy into India’s pace arsenal.
<h2>India’s Probable Squad</h2>
1- Rohit Sharma 2- Yashasvi Jaiswal 3- Shubman Gill 4- Virat Kohli 5- KL Rahul 6- Rishabh Pant 7- Suryakumar Yadav 8- Dhruv Jurel 9- Hardik Pandya 10- Nitish Kumar Reddy 11- Kuldeep Yadav 12- Axar Patel 13- Ravindra Jadeja 14- Jasprit Bumrah 15- Mohammed Siraj 16- Mohammed Shami 17- Arshdeep Singh 18- Harshit Rana
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-cricket-champions-trophy-2025-schedule-teams-fixtures-full-squads-time-table/">ICC Cricket Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule, Teams, Fixtures, Full Squads, &amp; Time Table</a>

India’s probable ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad features a strong top order, a dependable middle order, versatile all-rounders, quality spinners, and a lethal pace attack, blending experience and emerging talent for success.

India’s squad combines experienced stars and young talents, with balanced batting, all-rounders, spinners, and a fiery pace unit.

India's Probable Squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025!

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Nitish Kumar Reddy has made history and has given India a hope to save or even win the ongoing Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Stadium. He struck his maiden Test ton which helped India save the follow-on and finish the day at 358/9. He became the 69th Indian batter to score a hundred on away soil.
His innings has kept India in the game, and the visitors have an outside chance. Nitish is unbeaten on 105 runs with 10 fours and one six. India are still trailing by 116 runs, but they are not far away. His century made the whole cricketing world praise him. He definitely silenced his critics who doubted his position in the playing XI.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Puma slams Sanjay Manjrekar for his remark on Nitish Kumar Reddy's place in Playing XI</h2>
Nitish Kumar Reddy came out to bat when India lost Rishabh Pant at 191/6. He stretched an important partnership of 127 runs with Washington Sundar (50) for the 8th wicket. From there, Reddy played a matured knock and took risks when required and played cautiously when the pressure was on. With his hundred he became the first Indian batter to score a hundred at no. 8 on Australian soil.
His performance has not just earned him praise but also shut down all the critics. Notably, ahead of the MCG test, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar questioned Reddy's place in the playing XI. He said, "Does Reddy add value to this Indian side? Can we expect 120 runs from a No. 8 batter or, say, a 7-wicket haul like Shardul Thakur? At this stage, his bowling isn’t good enough, and his batting is too early to consider him a batting all-rounder.”
He also pointed out that India need specialist batter in place of Reddy. And what came as a special performance, the 21-year-old went on to slam an incredible century. His hundred has numerous reactions off the field. Famous sportswear brand PUMA Cricket also had a cheeky response to Manjrekar's remark with a tweet featuring Nitish Kumar Reddy in a "finger of the lips" pose.
The post suddenly caught the attention of the fans and spread like the fire in the woods. Reddy made a big difference with his impeccable knock, and India will hope that he can add a few more runs on Day 4 to take India to close to Australia's first-inning score. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/wtc-qualification-scenario-how-can-india-qualify-if-the-boxing-day-test-ends-in-a-draw-/">WTC Qualification Scenario: How can India qualify if the Boxing Day Test ends in a draw?</a>

Nitish Kumar Reddy slammed his maiden Test in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium to help India reach close to Australia's score.

Sportswear brand Puma slams Sanjay Manjrekar on "Nitish to be dropped" remark after Reddy's spectacular Boxing Day Ton 

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The Indian Men's National Cricket Team, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma are currently taking part in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series versus the Mighty Australians in Australia and both teams are currently fighting it our against each other in the five-match Test-Series. 
Post the conclusion of the Australian tour, the Men in Blue will shift their focus towards their upcoming bilateral assignment versus England and the 2025 Champions Trophy. Alongside the squad for the Bilateral series verus the Three Lions, the country's Cricket Governing Body, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is also expected to announce the Indian squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy tournament. 
<h2>Schedule of the White-Ball series assignment versus England</h2>
The Men in Blue will kick off the white-ball assignment versus England with the five-match T20 International series which will kick off from the 22nd of January. Then both the teams will lock horns versus each other in the three-match One Day International series from the 6th of January.
The ODI series versus the 2019 ODI World Cup winners will act as a preparatory ground for the Men in Blue ahead of the Champions Trophy. Post the conclusion of England's tour of India, Rohit Sharma &amp; CO will immediately travel to Dubai. They will be kicking off their Champions Trophy 2025 (CT) campaign on the 20th of February versus the Bangladeshi Tigers.
<h2>Big players likely to get rested</h2>
According to the workload management policy of the BCCI, experienced players like Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah are likely to get rested for the T20 International series. Apart from them, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal are also anticipated to be rested. 
Talking to Inside sport, a executive of BCCI said, "He (Jasprit Bumrah) has been playing Cricket continuously since the last 2 months. It's our priority to keep him fit for the 2025 Champions Trophy and IPL 2025 too. That's why, Bumrah will not be included in the T20 squad for the England series."
<h2>Probable T20 Squad of the Indian team versus England</h2>
Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, T20 specialists will likely get selected in the squad. Players like Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel and Sanju Samson will be getting the chance to showcase their skills. The duo of Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav, who have just returned from their respective injuries might also get selected to help them get ready for the Champions Trophy. 
Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Sanju Samson (WK), Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Shami, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (WK) and Riyan Parag. 
<h2>Probable ODI Squad of the Indian team versus England</h2>
Regular skipper Rohit Sharma will be handling the leadership duties of the One-Day Team. The presence of experienced players like Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj are expected to increase the strength of the squad.
Squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (WK), Mohammed Siraj, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Nitish Kumar Reddy and KL Rahul. 
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/shaheen-afridi-neglected-the-orders-of-the-selectors-and-this-led-to-his-exclusion-from-the-test-team/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shaheen Afridi neglected the orders of the selectors and this led to his exclusion from the Test Team</a>

Kuldeep Yadav of India celebrates the wicket of Liam Livingstone of England during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 between India and England | Image: Getty Images

The Indian Team will be shifting their focus towards the England series and Champions Trophy post the conclusion of the 2024-25 BGT Series. It's likely the BCCI will announce the Champions Trophy squad along side the England white-ball series squads.

India vs England: Team India's predicted squad for the ODI and T20i series versus England

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India batter Nitish Kumar Reddy has made the whole country proud after his sensational innings with the bat in the fourth game of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The match between the teams is taking place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
Nitish Kumar Reddy slammed his maiden Test ton, and it came at a time when India was under massive pressure. The all-rounder looked in terrific touch with the bat and didn't put a foot wrong, which brought the Rohit Sharma-led side back in the game with his incredible effort. 
Almost every Indian fan, as well as the Indian players, stood up and applauded the batter for his innings. This was because, being the 21-year-old, the all-rounder was better than almost every Indian batter and racked up ton in front of his family.
While his family was in tears, a prominent figure in Indian cricket, Ravi Shastri, was also in tears. The former Indian head coach was commentating, and Nitish Kumar Reddy slammed his ton and was seen crying when the batter achieved his milestone. The video went viral, and you can see below the article. 
Coming to the match, India made a slight comeback on Day three of the ongoing fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 after being dominated for two days. Overnight batters Rishabh Pant (28) and Ravindra Jadeja (17) did all the hard work in the first hour of day three after India resumed at 165 for five. 
However, after that both the batters perished with visitors under pressure at 221 for seven. It was then when Nitish Kumar Reddy (105*) and Washington Sundar (50) joined hands and bailed India out of trouble and put Australia under massive pressure. 
The Nitish-Washington duo added 127 runs to put Australia under pressure. While the Southpaw was back after a fifty, Nitish hit his maiden Test century as India ended Day three on high. At stumps, India was 358 for nine, trailing by 116 runs. 
The Indian team would be hoping that Nitish Kumar Reddy bats longer and helps his team reduce the deficit under 100. His innings tomorrow will be extremely important for the team in the context of the ongoing match.
Also read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/gautam-gambhir-and-rohit-sharma-ordered-to-drop-mohammed-siraj-following-his-worst-performance-/">Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma ordered to drop Mohammed Siraj following his worst performance</a>
<h2>Watch: Ravi Shastri gets emotional as Nitish Kumar Reddy slams his maiden Test ton at MCG</h2>
Here is the video:

India batter Nitish Kumar Reddy has made the whole country proud after his sensational innings with the bat in the fourth game of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

Watch: Ravi Shastri left in tears as Nitish Kumar Reddy slams a magnificent century at MCG

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India all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy achieved a massive feat after his sensational performance with the bat in the ongoing fourth Test against Australia. The right-hander became the third youngest player from India to hit a century in Australia. He joined the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rishabh Pant in the elite list.
Nitish Kumar Reddy came up with a blistering effort with the bat in Melbourne. When the chips were down, he came up with a magical effort and stood tall for his team when they needed him the most. The all-rounder bailed the team out of trouble and brought them back into the game. 
<h2>Nitish Kumar Reddy came to bat after India was under massive pressure</h2>
Nitish Kumar Reddy came to bat after India was under massive pressure, having lost both Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja early on Day two. The all-rounder proved his prowess with the bat as he hit the bowlers all over the park en route to his maiden century in the longest format of the game. 
Nitish Kumar Reddy showed great discipline and made sure that he took his team close to the total of Australia. His innings came at a time when India was facing the threat of follow-on as they had lost 7 wickets in no time, and the hosts were all over them. 
Nitish Reddy, along with Washington Sundar, made sure that India made a strong comeback and frustrated the Australian bowlers. While the left-hander slammed a glorious half-century, the right-hander went on to hit a blistering century in tough conditions. The duo together added 127 runs to stage the Indian comeback. 
Nitish Kumar Reddy, with his maiden ton, also became the first player from India to score a century in Australia while batting at No.8 in Tests. He would want to double his effort and take his team to a comfortable position. A lot of Indian hopes would be on him tomorrow, especially after his effort on day three.
Nitish was unbeaten at 105 runs at the stumps on Day three. He would be keen to add more runs to his tally and reduce the deficit under 100 runs, which is currently his 116 runs. It remains to be seen how much can he score on Day four.
Also read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/gautam-gambhir-and-rohit-sharma-ordered-to-drop-mohammed-siraj-following-his-worst-performance-/">Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma ordered to drop Mohammed Siraj following his worst performance</a>

India all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy achieved a massive feat after his sensational performance with the bat in the ongoing fourth Test against Australia.

Nitish Kumar Reddy scripts history; becomes third  youngest Indian player to…

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India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has dropped a bombshell statement about his battle with Australia batter Sam Konstas. He said that the batter was interesting, and he was enjoying the battle and is looking forward to the next innings of the match. 
Jasprit Bumrah, who has been the best bowler for India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, was made look clueless by the 19-year-old Sam Konstas. The Australia debutant tackled the 'Bumrah' challenge brilliantly as, according to him, the attack was the best option to counter his challenge.
Sam Konstas brought his T20 style in the Tests as he hit Jasprit Bumrah for sixes and boundaries all over the park. It wasn't conventional shots but the batter was at his unorthodox best as he played reverse scoops and hit the fast bowler for runs all over the park. 
Jasprit Bumrah was hit for two sixes by Sam Konstas and it marked the first instance since 2018 when the fast bowler was hit for two sixes in the match. The pacer was taken out of attack in the first spell till the time the batter was back in the hut. 
<h2>He is an interesting batter - I always felt, I was in the game, some days, it pays off - Jasprit Bumrah on his battle with Sam Konstas </h2>
Talking about his battle with Sam Konstas, Jasprit Bumrah claimed that he has experienced a lot in his career and while calling the batter interesting batter, he said that he felt he was always in the game. He also stressed that when the batter fails, he will be criticised a lot. Speaking to 7 Cricket, he explained: 
"I have experienced a lot - played T20I cricket for more than 12 years - He is an interesting batter - I always felt, I was in the game, some days, it pays off, it looks good - some days, it won't and you guys will be criticizing the same person - I love different challenges and looking forward to new challenges". 
Sam Konstas raced away to his half-century in the game and ended with an inning of 60 runs. He set a great platform for the Australia team which allowed them to post a massive first innings total of 474 runs on the board. 
Jasprit Bumrah, on the other picked a four-wicket haul and gave away 99 runs. This was the first time in his career that he was taken for this many runs. He would be looking for a strong response in the second innings.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/how-much-is-virat-kohli-s-match-fee-what-will-he-get-after-a-20-percent-penalty-at-the-mcg-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How much is Virat Kohli's match fee? What will he get after a 20 percent penalty at the MCG?</a>

India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has dropped a bombshell statement about his battle with Australia batter Sam Konstas.

Jasprit Bumrah afraid of Sam Konstas? Fast bowler's 'interesting batter' comment goes viral

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After a rained-out draw at the Gabba in Brisbane, the ongoing Boxing Day Test between Australia and India looks to be heading towards a draw. After the stumps on Day 3, India are 358/9, trailing by another 116 runs. The weather spoiled the play in the final sessions, and similarly there is a prediction of rain for the remaining two days.
Australia are currently ahead in the game and will look to take the remaining Indian wicket and have a good first-inning lead and bat early on Day 4. That is the only chance that they can try to force the result from this game. But as predicted by the weather forecast, there might be rain in the coming two days.
If it happens, it will eat the time out of this game, and the result will be very difficult. Hence, there is a chance that the Boxing Day Test can end in a draw. Well, both teams need this win to take an unassailable lead in the series and also to inch closer to a place in the World Test Championship. But what will happen if the game ends in a draw?
<h2>WTC Final Scenario: Here's how India can qualify for the final of the World Test Championship if the MCG test ends in a draw</h2>
Although India need to win the fourth and fifth tests to make a clear progression to the WTC final. But if in case the ongoing test ends in a draw, then the WTC final qualification scenario will be totally different. The draw at the MCG means that India will have to depend on the other teams.
Firstly, they need to win the fifth and final test at the SCG, and they will end with a scoreline of 2-1. Notably, Australia have two tests in Sri Lanka, and South Africa have two tests (one is underway) against Pakistan. If India win the BGT series 2-1, then they will hope that Sri Lanka can draw one of two tests against Australia or Pakistan beat South Africa in one game.
Secondly, if the BGT series ends at 2-2, then for India's qualification, Sri Lanka and Pakistan have to beat Australia and South Africa in both games. If the BGT series ends at a scoreline of 1-1, then the scenario will be Sri Lanka beating Australia in one game or Pakistan winning both matches against South Africa to help India qualify. Notably, if India lose the BGT series, they are out.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/nitish-kumar-reddy-scripts-history-breaks-multiple-records-with-his-boxing-day-ton-at-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nitish Kumar Reddy scripts history; breaks multiple records with his Boxing Day Ton at MCG</a>

The Boxing Day Test between India and Australia is underway at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia are ahead, but India are fighting hard for survival.

WTC Qualification Scenario: How can India qualify if the Boxing Day Test ends in a draw?

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Fierce-rivals Australia and India are currently taking on each other in the fourth Test-Match of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series and this match is being played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The superb performances of Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar with the bat has helped the Men in Blue to get in a strong position on the 3rd day of the contest. 
From here on, the chances of Team India's win in the Melbourne Test have increased significantly. However, rain interruption was seen on the 3rd day of the contest and this has increased the threat of even more rain interruptions on the fourth and fifth days of the encounter. In this article, we will take a look at the weather reports of the fourth and fifth days of the fourth Test-Match which is currently being played in the city of Melbourne.
The third day of the Boxing-Day Test-Match was halted for some time due to rain after which the question started to raise among the fans that will the fourth and fifth days also get intervened by rainfall? Due to constant rainfall, the Gabba Test-Match ended as a draw. In such situation, keeping the World Test Championship Final qualification in mind for the Indian team, the rain can hamper their chances of qualifying for the title-deciding clash in June of next year. 
<h2>Weather forecast of the fourth and fifth days of the Melbourne Test-Match</h2>
According to the weather report of AccuWeather, the chances of rainfall intervening with the third day of the Melbourne Test-Match were 49% and rain intervened with the proceedings of the game too. But, no major impact was caused on the match by the intervention of the Weather Gods.
<h3>Weather Forecast on the fourth day of the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match</h3>
The chances of rain intervening with the Australia vs India match on the fourth day i.e 29th of December, Sunday are just two percent. The minimum temperature is anticipated to be between 14-25 degrees Celsius. At the same time, winds are expected to blow at a speed of 17km/h.
<h2>Weather Forecast on the 5th day of the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match</h2>
Talking about the fifth day of the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test, the rainfall interruption chances are pretty low, sitting at just 3%. The temperature is expected to be around 15 degrees Celsius with a maximum of 28 degrees Celsius. At the same time, the winds will be blowing at the speed of 15km/h. 
Both the weather forecast reports of both days are positive and this decreases the chances of the contest getting washed out due to rain and this is a positive news for the Men in Blue.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/will-rohit-sharma-retire-after-the-border-gavaskar-series-bcci-gives-a-huge-statement/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Will Rohit Sharma retire after the Border-Gavaskar Series? BCCI gives a huge statement</a>

It was an overcast morning session at the MCG on the 3rd day of the fourth Test-Match between Australia and India | Image: Associated Press

Rain intervened with the proceedings of the match on the third day of the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match. So will the Rain Gods play spoilsport on the fourth and fifth days too? Let's find out

IND vs AUS 4th Test: Will the fourth and fifth days witness rain interruptions? Know the weather reports of both the days

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Indian Cricket Team's captain Rohit Sharma has been in poor form with the bat so far in the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series versus Australia. Playing as an opener, the 37-year-old got dismissed after scoring just three runs in the first inning and it was yet another failure for the Indian skipper versus the Mighty Aussies. His poor form has created a lot discussions regarding his retirement from Red-Ball Cricket. 
Through various Social Media platforms, a lot of claims are being made that Rohit is going to retire from the longest format of the game post the conclusion of the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy series and the BCCI has come ahead and they have given a huge statement regarding the same.
Speaking to Insidesports regarding the possible retirement of Rohit, a BCCI official said, " There have been no discussions regarding the retirement of Rohit (Sharma). All of these are rumours and we don't prefer to respond on rumours. We are hearing these baseless rumours for the first time. It's upto him (Rohit) to decide whether we are in the middle of a Test-match or not. It's about winning matches."
<h2>The poor form of Rohit Sharma continues</h2>
The Indian skipper is currently having a tough time out there in the middle with the bat in Australia. If we take a look at his last 10 Test innings, he has managed to score just a single fifty. In the last 10 Test-innings, the 37-year old has scored 3, 10, 6, 3, 11, 18, 8, 0, 52 and 2 runs respectively. Even in the first inning of the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test, the former Mumbai Indians captain got dismissed after scoring just three runs.
<h2>Rohit Sharma's Test career so far</h2>
37-year-old Rohit Sharma has taken part in 66 Test-matches so far in his career. In 114 innings of these contests, he has managed to score 4,289 runs at average of 41.24 with the help of 12 hundreds and 18 fifties with a highest score of 212 runs next to his name. It's worth noting that Sharma made his Test debut in 2013 versus the Windies. 
<h2>The captain himself is proving to be the weakling</h2>
A captain of a team is regarded as the most important and experienced player and their role is to rescue their team from difficult situations and lead them to victory. However, in the case of Rohit Sharma, he is proving to be the weakest link of the Men in Blue. 
His poor performances with the bat are proving to be problematic for the Indian Team and in the last 14 test innings, Rohit has managed to score just 155 runs at a horrendous average of 10.07 which includes just a single half-century.The score of 52 runs has been his best score and besides that, the 37-year-old has not managed to cross the 20 runs mark even once.
Do Read<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-cricket-champions-trophy-2025-schedule-teams-fixtures-full-squads-time-table/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">: ICC Cricket Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule, Teams, Fixtures, Full Squads, &amp; Time Table</a>

Indian Captain Rohit Sharma walks back to the pavilion after getting dismissed for yet another low score | Image: Associated Press

Rohit Sharma's repeated poor performances with the bat have raised questions regarding his place in the team and many experts and Indian fans want him to retire from Test Cricket

Will Rohit Sharma retire after the Border-Gavaskar Series? BCCI gives a huge statement

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Nitish Kumar Reddy has made history. The third day of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground has ended with the visitors fighting hard to survive in the game. They are still trailing by 116 runs with only one wicket left in the tank.
But it was the 21-year-old Nitish Kumar Reddy, who has made headlines with a Boxing Day century at the MCG. After a number of 30s and 40s earlier in the series, the 21-year-old finally reached his maiden test fifty. But he didn't stop there and stitched a crucial partnership with Washington Sundar, who also played well.
The duo took India past the follow-on score and kept India in the game. Sundar got out after his fifty, and Jasprit Bumrah backed a duck. But it was all determination by Reddy, who succeeded in getting his maiden test century, and what a time and place to get to the triple figure. With his century, he achieved multiple records.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Nitish Kumar Reddy made history with his Boxing Day Ton at the MCG</h2>
At the end of Day 3, India are 358/9, with Reddy unbeaten on 105 runs with 10 fours and one six while Mohammed Siraj is on 2 not out. Reddy's hundred came at a crucial time as he came out to bat when India were 221/7. But it was a breakthrough innings for the youngsters. He played some beautiful shots and kept the scoreboard ticking.
When he reached 88 runs, he went past Anil Kumble and registered the highest score by an Indian on Australian soil, batting at no. 8. With his century now, he is the first Indian batter to slam a century batting at No. 8. This is not all. The 21-year-old has hit 8 sixes in the series so far. With this, he has hit the joint-most sixes in a test series on Australian soil.
Michael Vaughan (2002-03 Ashes) and Chris Gayle (2009-10) have hit 8 sixes each in a test series in Australia. Nitish Kumar Reddy still have some innings left, and if he can hit one more six, he will make history. Adding to that, Reddy had an exciting celebration. After reaching fifty, he celebrated in the famous "Pushpa" movie style.
However, after his century, he celebrated in "Bahubali" style, which tells about the great character of the youngster. With one wicket left, India will look to eat up Australia's lead. There are still two days left in the game, and India will look to take time. Sundar also played well for his half-century and added 127 runs for the 8th wicket.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/yashasvi-jaiswal-went-past-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-in-an-elite-list-of-indians-with-his-glorious-82-at-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yashasvi Jaiswal went past Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar in an elite list of Indians with his glorious 82 at MCG</a>

Nitish Kumar Reddy slammed his maiden Test ton in the ongoing Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.