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  • Azmatullah Omarzai’s arrival to Punjab Kings delayed ahead of IPL 2025

    Azmatullah Omarzai’s arrival to Punjab Kings delayed ahead of IPL 2025

    Punjab Kings (PBKS) are gearing up for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season with renewed hope and revamped leadership. However, their preparations have hit a minor snag as Afghanistan’s star all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai’s arrival has been delayed due to personal reasons. Omarzai, one of the central figures in PBKS’ plans, is likely to arrive in the team on March 21, only a few days before their season-opener against the Gujarat Titans on March 25. Although this delay may raise some eyebrows, PBKS have sufficient depth in their team to handle the situation well.

    Azmatullah Omarzai: A rising star in international cricket

    Omarzai is no run-of-the-mill cricketer. At the age of only 24, he has already established himself on the global platform. In 2024, he became the first-ever Afghan cricketer to be awarded the coveted ICC ODI Player of the Year award. His all-round performances with bat and ball played a crucial role in Afghanistan’s victories, such as four successive ODI series wins against strong teams like South Africa and Bangladesh. With 417 runs at a rate of 52.12 and 17 wickets at an economy of 20.47 in 14 games last season, Omarzai solidified his position as one of cricket’s most promising young stars.

    PBKS acquired Omarzai for INR 2.4 crore in the IPL 2025 mega-auction, seeing his potential to be a game-changer. His capability to deliver in all aspects of the game makes him an asset for any team.

    The delay: A cause for concern?

    Omarzai’s arrival has been postponed due to personal reasons, leaving him with limited time to acclimatize before PBKS’ first match. While most of PBKS’ overseas players reported to the camp on March 17, Omarzai will join four days later, potentially impacting his preparation and integration into the team. Given his importance to PBKS’ strategy, this delay could pose challenges for head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer.

    However, PBKS have options to mitigate his absence during practice sessions. The squad boasts experienced all-rounders like Glenn Maxwell and Marco Jansen, who can step in if needed. Maxwell’s ability to deliver under pressure and Jansen’s versatility provide a safety net for PBKS as they await Omarzai’s arrival.

    Also READ: Punjab Kings batter Shashank Singh reveals his all-time IPL XI; picks Yuzvendra Chahal as only spinner

    Punjab Kings: A team seeking redemption

    Punjab Kings have been a long way from achieving steady success in the IPL. Despite possessing powerful lineups and big players season after season, they have not made it to the playoffs for a decade now (2015-2024). Their best years have been reaching semifinals in 2008 and reaching the runners-up position in 2014. This year, with the advent of new leadership—Ponting as head coach and Iyer as captain—PBKS are looking to rewrite its history.

    Iyer comes with huge expectations following his success in leading Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL trophy last season. His batting and leadership abilities will be very important for PBKS this season. Also joining is Yuzvendra Chahal at INR 18 crore, who will provide fire power to their bowling unit.

    PBKS’ first match against Gujarat Titans on March 25 will determine the tone of their campaign. The team has already started intense training at Dharamsala’s Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium under Ponting’s supervision. The emphasis is on team bonding and strategy improvement before what looks like a competitive season.

    Also READ: Harsha Bhogle names his probable XI for Punjab Kings in IPL 2025

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  • IPL 2025: Salary of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) players; check out how much Virat Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar earn

    IPL 2025: Salary of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) players; check out how much Virat Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar earn

    The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have assembled a powerful team for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 by combining a solid core of retained players with explosive new signings. Retaining three players, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar and Yash Dayal, RCB maintained stability while making major signings in the mega auction. Among the largest purchases was Josh Hazlewood, their costliest acquisition at INR 12.50 crore, bolstering their bowling department. The team also acquired 19 new players, including 8 overseas stars, to even out their squad in all departments.

    Rajat Patidar appointed captain as RCB modify leadership

    In a significant leadership change, Rajat Patidar has been made captain, a break from RCB’s tradition of entrusting the job to big international names. His elevation is an indication of the franchise’s trust in developing Indian talent and promoting long-term stability. To provide backup for Patidar, RCB has reorganized their coaching department, promoting Andy Flower as head coach, Dinesh Karthik as batting coach and Omkar Salvi as bowling coach. With these organizational overhauls, RCB hope to reach their full potential and contest their first-ever IPL title.

    Can RCB finally end their IPL trophy drought?

    Even though RCB has come close by winning three IPL finals, they are still waiting to get their hands on the highly sought-after trophy. Nevertheless, their balanced team, robust leadership team, and smart strategy during the auction have made them real contenders for IPL 2025. With their power-hitters, well-balanced all-rounders, and a deadly bowling line-up, this season is one of the best chances RCB have had to break their title jinx. The fans will be keen to know if this new-look RCB team can finally bring glory to Bengaluru.

    Also READ: RCB Full Squad, IPL 2025 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Players List, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Salaries of RCB players in IPL 2025

    • Virat Kohli: INR 21 crore
    • Rajat Patidar: INR 11 crore
    • Yash Dayal: INR 5 crore
    • Liam Livingstone (Overseas): INR 8.75 crore
    • Phil Salt (Overseas): INR 11.50 crore
    • Jitesh Sharma: INR 11 crore
    • Josh Hazlewood (Overseas): INR 12.50 crore
    • Rasikh Dar: INR 6 crore
    • Suyash Sharma: INR 2.60 crore
    • Krunal Pandya: INR 5.75 crore
    • Bhuvneshwar Kumar: INR 10.75 crore
    • Swapnil Singh: INR 50 lakhs
    • Tim David (Overseas): INR 3 crore
    • Romario Shepherd (Overseas): INR 1.50 crore
    • Nuwan Thushara (Overseas): INR 1.60 crore
    • Manoj Bhandage: INR 30 lakhs
    • Jacob Bethell (Overseas): INR 2.60 crore
    • Devdutt Padikkal: INR 2 crore
    • Swastik Chhikara: INR 30 lakh
    • Lungi Ngidi (Overseas): INR 1 crore
    • Abhinandan Singh: INR 30 lakh
    • Mohit Rathee: INR 30 lakh

    Also READ: IPL – Complete list of all RCB captains so far ft. Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli

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  • Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) SWOT analysis for IPL 2025

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) SWOT analysis for IPL 2025

    With the 18th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) looming, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are again preparing in search of their first title. Their incredible transformation in IPL 2024, winning six in a row and ending up in the playoffs after a torrid beginning, has increased expectations. Nevertheless, with a fresh captain in Rajat Patidar and some marquee signings, RCB will have to turn over a new leaf to win the trophy finally. Here is a comprehensive SWOT analysis for the next season.

    Strengths: A balanced squad with multi-dimensional players

    One of the strongest positives for RCB going into IPL 2025 is the balance in their squad. Contrary to seasons past, where they relied heavily on star power, this year’s squad has been constructed on the basis of roles instead of merely marquee names.

    • Robust Indian core: RCB have consolidated its Indian strength with Patidar captaincy, Virat Kohli as the ace, and Devdutt Padikkal contributing good batting depth. Having Jitesh Sharma as a wicket-keeper batter makes them more agile in the middle order.
    • Dynamic overseas contingent: Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone and Tim David signings inject explosive power into their ranks. Salt, in red-hot touch of late, is a steady wicketkeeper-batter option at the top.
    • Experienced bowling attack: In the past, RCB’s biggest flaw has been their failure to defend totals in the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. This week, however, with Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar spearheading the attack, they now boast increased death overs reliability. Nuwan Thushara and Lungi Ngidi also offer express pace.
    • Balanced all-rounders: The presence of players like Liam Livingstone, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd and Jacob Bethell adds depth to both batting and bowling and makes RCB less dependent on individuals.

    Weaknesses: Inexperienced captaincy and middle-order issues

    Despite RCB working on many of its previous issues, some glaring weaknesses continue to exist.

    • Rajat Patidar’s captaincy inexperience: RCB have traditionally had experienced international celebrities at the helm, but now with Patidar leading the charge, only time will tell whether he can deliver under the IPL captaincy pressure.
    • Middle-order stability: While Livingstone and Phil Salt offer explosive alternatives, RCB lacks a consistent No. 4 or No. 5 batsman who can steady the innings in the event of early dismissals. This has been a concern for quite a few seasons.
    • Chinnaswamy’s small boundaries and bowling challenges: RCB bowlers, no matter how much their bowling attack has been enhanced, will continue to lose out in high-scoring matches on their home ground. Players like Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar will have to be in the best of their forms to help restrict the run flow.

    Also READ: RCB Unbox Event 2025: Date, Time, Ticket Price, Performers and Live Streaming details

    Opportunities: A new chapter and a chance to break the title curse

    RCB have never lifted an IPL trophy, but this season offers a huge chance to finally end the jinx.

    • A new leadership era: Patidar’s appointment marks a move towards long-term thinking, with RCB able to construct around Indian young guns. If Patidar delivers, he may lead the franchise for many seasons.
    • Virat Kohli’s experience as a senior player: With Kohli now playing without the burden of captaincy, he can focus entirely on his batting, which might bring out his best version in IPL 2025.
    • Emerging young talent: The presence of Jacob Bethell, Swapnil Singh, and Suyash Sharma gives RCB a chance to nurture future stars who could make an impact in crunch games.

    Threats: Injury risks and over-reliance on key players

    • Fitness issues for foreign players: Hazlewood, Ngidi, and Livingstone have all been injury-plagued in the past few years. If any one of them is out for a major part of the season, RCB’s equilibrium can be upset.
    • Reliance on Kohli and Salt at the top: If Kohli or Salt fail in some games, the batting of the team can be affected, as the middle order has not been tested under pressure yet.
    • Strong competition from more powerful squad: RCB will have to be at their very best to remain competitive with squads like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Gujarat Titans that have squads with great depth.

    RCB have put together a balanced team for IPL 2025, featuring a good balance of Indian cricketers, explosive foreign superstars, and a solid bowling unit. Success, though, depends on the leadership of Patidar, batting prowess of Kohli, and their ability to deliver under pressure situations. If they remain consistent and plug their loopholes, it may well be that year when RCB holds aloft the IPL trophy. But if familiar problems – such as middle-order breakdowns and death-over woes – return to haunt them, then it would be another season of misery.

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Top 10 overseas players to watch out for ft. Trent Boult and Phil Salt

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  • Delhi Capitals (DC) announces a new vice-captain ahead of IPL 2025

    Delhi Capitals (DC) announces a new vice-captain ahead of IPL 2025

    In a strong leadership move prior to Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Delhi Capitals (DC) have named previous South African captain Faf du Plessis their vice-captain. The organization confirmed the news through a post on their official X handle, cementing their leadership crew for the new season. This development follows the appointment of Axar Patel as Delhi captain after Rishabh Pant was released ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. With Du Plessis’ immense experience and leadership qualities, Delhi look to form a powerful leadership team that can take them to their first-ever IPL title.

    Delhi Capitals reform leadership team for IPL 2025

    Delhi Capitals have not fared well in the past three seasons, not making it to the playoffs since their runner-up finish in IPL 2020. With a strong team every year, DC has yet to win a trophy, just like Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), two other teams that have been participating in the tournament since its beginning in 2008. With Axar Patel at the helm and Du Plessis with a plethora of experience as his second-in-command, DC looks to reverse fortunes in IPL 2025. The franchise has taken aggressive moves in the mega auction, picking up superstars like Mitchell Starc.

    New vice-captain career journey in IPL 2025

    Du Plessis, the RCB skipper of IPL 2024, was released by the franchise before the mega auction. Even though he led RCB to the playoffs in IPL 2022, his age and inconsistent performances during the last season prompted the franchise to release him. Du Plessis was picked up by Delhi Capitals during the IPL 2025 auction for INR 2 Crores, a steal considering his stature.

    The experienced batter with over 4000 IPL runs under his belt will now be an integral part of the team not only as a batter but also as an important member of DC’s leadership team. His extensive experience of playing T20 cricket, his capability to steady the innings, and his strategic skills as a captain can be a huge asset to Delhi. As Axar will be captaining on the field, Du Plessis’ vice-captaincy role will be important in ensuring the guidance to the young players and complementing the Indian all-rounder with respect to making decisions.

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Top 10 overseas players to watch out for ft. Trent Boult and Phil Salt

    Can DC end their trophy drought?

    Delhi Capitals have always had a lot of promise but have consistently failed at the right moments. Their best performance ever was in IPL 2020, where they reached the runner-up spot, losing the final match to Mumbai Indians. Inconsistency, injuries, and constant changes in leadership have been holding them back since then.

    The next season of IPL 2025 comes as a new chance, with a refreshed squad and new leadership team at the reins. Headed by Axar Patel and Faf du Plessis, with stalwarts Starc and KL Rahul on the roster, DC will be eyeing to eventually win their first-ever IPL trophy. The heat will now be on Axar and Du Plessis to form a championship-winning side and bring Delhi its maiden IPL trophy. With a well-rounded team, seasoned captaincy, and thrilling new recruitments, DC will be a side worth keeping an eye on in IPL 2025.

    Also READ: IPL 2025: The Teams most likely to dominate this Season

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  • IPL 2025 [WATCH]: Ishan Kishan dominates SRH intra-squad simulation with blistering back-to-back fifties

    IPL 2025 [WATCH]: Ishan Kishan dominates SRH intra-squad simulation with blistering back-to-back fifties

    With less than a week left before the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 begins, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. Last season’s runners-up will aim to go one step further this time, having fallen just short of lifting their second IPL title despite a spectacular run to the final.

    SRH’s power-packed batting unit gets an X-factor in Ishan Kishan

    In the IPL 2025 mega auction, SRH strategically retained a core group of players, including Pat Cummins, Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy. However, they made a high-profile addition to their already explosive batting unit by roping in Ishan Kishan – a move that could alter their top-order dynamics significantly.

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2016 champions made a strong statement by outbidding five-time winners MI to secure Kishan’s services for INR 11.25 crore in Jeddah. Having been released by MI before the auction, the wicketkeeper-batter was expected to return to his former team, but SRH swooped in at the last moment, ensuring a significant boost to their firepower.

    Kishan’s performances in intra-squad matches have only reinforced SRH’s faith in him. In a recent practice game, he delivered two sensational knocks, first blasting a 64 off just 24 balls, followed by an unbeaten 73 off 30 deliveries. His ability to dominate powerplays and accelerate the scoring rate in the middle overs makes him a game-changer for SRH this season.

    A blistering start: Kishan’s practice match heroics ahead of IPL 2025

    In the first innings of the intra-squad match, Kishan opened the batting alongside Abhishek, forming a formidable left-handed duo at the top. The pair got off to a flying start, taking apart the bowling attack inside the powerplay.

    However, Abhishek was dismissed after scoring a rapid 28 off just 8 balls, falling to a catch at deep cover. Despite the early loss of his partner, Kishan continued his aggressive approach, bringing up his half-century in quick time. His innings came to an end in the 8th over, when he was caught and bowled by Kamindu Mendis. At the time of his dismissal, his team had already raced to 117/3 in just 7.2 overs, showcasing his impact at the top of the order.

    In the second innings, chasing a daunting 261-run target, Kishan once again stepped up, proving his consistency and adaptability. Facing SRH’s main bowling attack, he continued his onslaught, taking Abhishek, who was bowling in the second innings, to the cleaners. Kishan remained unbeaten, finishing with 73 runs off 30 balls, cementing his position as one of SRH’s most valuable batters heading into IPL 2025.

    Here’s the video:

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Pat Cummins and Heinrich Klaasen reveal their choice for Sunrisers Hyderabad’s biggest superstar

    Where will Kishan fit into SRH’s lineup?

    While Abhishek and Head have established themselves as SRH’s first-choice opening pair, Kishan’s recent performances have put pressure on team management to consider reshuffling the order. Given his reputation as a destructive power-hitter, SRH might deploy Kishan at No. 3, where he can continue his free-flowing stroke play while providing flexibility in case of an early wicket.

    With Abhishek and Head set to continue as openers, Kishan’s presence at one-down could strengthen SRH’s middle order, ensuring a seamless transition between the top order and the power-packed middle order, which includes Klaasen, Nitish Reddy and Aiden Markram. Moreover, Kishan’s explosive style of play will allow SRH to maintain an aggressive tempo throughout the innings, keeping opposition bowlers under constant pressure. His ability to tackle both pacers and spinners makes him an ideal option for batting at No. 3, ensuring that SRH remains a batting-heavy side capable of posting daunting totals.

    Also READ: Virat Kohli responds to speculation about his international and IPL retirement



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  • IPL 2025: RCB icon Virat Kohli breaks silence on his absence from social media platforms

    IPL 2025: RCB icon Virat Kohli breaks silence on his absence from social media platforms

    Virat Kohli, one of the most celebrated cricketers of this era, has taken a surprising step back from social media, leaving many fans curious about his decision. The former Indian captain, who was once highly active in sharing his personal and professional life on platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), has drastically cut down his engagement. His reduced presence became even more evident when he refrained from posting anything about India’s historic Champions Trophy 2025 victory, a tournament where he played a crucial role. Instead, Kohli’s recent online activity has been largely limited to brand endorsements, further fueling speculation about his evolving relationship with social media.

    During his appearance at the RCB Innovation Lab’s Indian Sports Summit, Kohli shed light on why he has been avoiding social media and the mental toll it had started taking on him. He spoke about how overwhelming the reactions to his posts had become and how he felt that it was draining his energy, which he would rather invest in his game, personal life, and relationships.

    “The kind of attention and traction you receive when you post something on social media is quite unbelievable. It’s intense. Luckily, I was born in a time when I didn’t grow up with a phone in my pocket, so for me, keeping it aside is easy. A lot of people are not happy about my reduced engagement, but it’s something I’ve consciously tried to do. Keeping up with the constant stream of social media felt like it was draining my energy, and I didn’t want to waste that, Kohli said.

    No post for India’s Champions Trophy 2025 win

    One of the biggest shocks for his fans was Kohli’s complete silence on social media after India’s triumph in the Champions Trophy. Given that he was instrumental in India’s success – scoring 218 runs at an average of 54.50, including a match-winning century against Pakistan in the group stage and a crucial 98-ball 84 in the semi-final against Australia – his absence from celebratory posts was noticeable.

    When asked why he refrained from posting about the victory, Kohli offered a simple yet profound response:

    “So I didn’t want anything to do with it. And yeah, for me, posting about, for example, us winning the championship, it’s not going to increase the happiness in my heart. They all know we’ve won the trophy. So me posting about it is not going to give us two trophies. The reality stays the same,”  the 36-year-old added.

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Ambati Rayudu trolls RCB during the Champions Trophy final; mocks their title drought

    Despite cutting down on personal posts, Kohli remains active on social media – but primarily for brand endorsements. Following India’s Champions Trophy win, his accounts featured a series of paid promotions, including advertisements for an energy drink, and a snack brand, all within a three-day span. This led to widespread disappointment among fans, who were expecting a heartfelt acknowledgment of India’s title win. Addressing this, Kohli clarified that his posts today are largely due to past sponsorship agreements and that he is now making a conscious effort to separate his personal life from his social media persona.

    “A lot of the things that I still have to do on social media are the things that I’ve kind of agreed to in the past. But if you ask me today, I’m making a conscious effort not to include my social media handle which is private to me. In terms of whatever I’m doing next in my life, I’m kind of disconnecting the two. And I wanted to be able to do that because what happens is if you only see branded content on your platform, then people are like, oh, there’s nothing being posted apart from this here. And it just becomes too complicated,” the former RCB captain explained.

    Focus now shifts to IPL 2025

    With the Champions Trophy behind him, Kohli is now shifting his focus to Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, where he will once again represent Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). His team is set to begin their campaign against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens on March 22. While his social media presence may have diminished, Kohli’s on-field performances continue to speak louder than any Instagram post ever could. As he prepares for another intense IPL season, one thing is clear—his focus remains unwavering, his goals remain intact, and his passion for the game burns just as bright.

    Also READ: IPL: Complete list of all RCB captains so far ft. Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli

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  • Virat Kohli responds to speculation about his international and IPL retirement

    Virat Kohli responds to speculation about his international and IPL retirement

    Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s most iconic figures, has recently addressed the ongoing speculation about his retirement from international cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). In a candid conversation at the RCB Innovation Lab’s Leadership Summit, Kohli emphasized that his love for the game remains the driving force behind his continued involvement.

    Virat Kohli’s international career and retirement talks

    Kohli’s recent performances, particularly during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 series against Australia, have fuelled discussions about his potential retirement from Test cricket. Despite scoring a century in the opening Test, Kohli struggled to maintain his form throughout the series, leading to speculation about his future in the format. However, Kohli has clarified that he is not considering retirement at the moment, stating that his passion for cricket remains strong.

    “Don’t get nervous, I’m not making an announcement. It pretty much comes down to just the pure joy, enjoyment, and love for the game. As long as that is intact, I will continue to play,” Kohli said.

    In a reflective tone, Kohli mentioned that he might not have another tour of Australia in him, indicating a sense of contentment with his past achievements. This statement has sparked debate among fans about whether he might step away from Test cricket soon.

    “Once you start thinking about disappointment from an external perspective, you burden yourself unnecessarily. I experienced this in Australia as well. I got a good score in the first Test, and I thought, ‘Right, here we go—another big series for me.’ But things didn’t go as planned. So, how do you deal with that? For me, it’s all about acceptance. This is what happened, and I need to be honest with myself,” he explained.

    Kohli’s approach to retirement and career milestones

    Kohli shared insights into his approach to retirement, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and staying connected with one’s inner self. He recalled a conversation with Rahul Dravid, who advised him to stay in touch with his personal growth and not rush into decisions based on external pressures.

    Kohli also emphasized that he is no longer driven by milestones or achievements, focusing instead on the joy and love he derives from playing the game. This mindset allows him to approach challenges with a sense of peace and acceptance, even in the face of setbacks.

    “The competitive streak inside you doesn’t allow you to find the answer easily. I had a very interesting conversation with Rahul Dravid, and he told me that you always need to stay in touch with yourself. Figure out where you are in life, because the answer is not that simple,” the Delhi-lad revealed.

    Also WATCH: Fan who proposed Zaheer Khan on TV returns with a new gesture after two decades

    Kohli’s IPL commitment and future plans

    As Kohli prepares for his 18th season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), he remains committed to the franchise. He is the only player to represent the same IPL team since beginning and is the league’s all-time leading run-scorer with 8,004 runs in 252 matches.

    Kohli’s dedication to RCB is evident as he gears up for the upcoming season, which begins on March 22. Despite speculation about his international career, Kohli’s involvement with RCB continues to be strong.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 – Here are the captains of all 10 teams

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  • Here’s the reason why Aamer Jamal was fined PKR 1.4 million by PCB

    Here’s the reason why Aamer Jamal was fined PKR 1.4 million by PCB

    The world of cricket often witnesses moments of brilliance, but it is not immune to controversies. Recently, Pakistan all-rounder Aamer Jamal found himself at the center of a storm after being fined a staggering PKR 1.4 million by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The incident has sparked debates about the intersection of sports and politics, raising questions about discipline and freedom of expression within the game.

    The incident: A political statement on the field

    Jamal, a talented all-rounder, was fined during Pakistan’s home Test series against England in October 2024. The controversy arose when Jamal was spotted wearing a cap with “804” written on it during an interview. This seemingly innocuous number carried significant political connotations—it referred to the prisoner identification number of Imran Khan, Pakistan’s former Prime Minister and cricket legend, who is currently incarcerated in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.

    Supporters of Imran have often used “804” as a symbol of solidarity, chanting slogans such as “Tera Yaar, Mera Yaar Qaidi Number 804” (Your friend, my friend, prisoner number 804). By displaying this number on his cap, Jamal appeared to express his support for Imran, a move that did not sit well with the PCB.

    PCB’s stance: Politics has no place in cricket

    The PCB has long maintained that cricket should remain apolitical. In response to Jamal’s actions, the board imposed a hefty fine of PKR 1.4 million—the largest among recent disciplinary measures against Pakistani players. The PCB justified its decision by stating that political expressions on the field violate its code of conduct and undermine the sport’s integrity.

    This fine was part of a broader crackdown on disciplinary breaches by Pakistani cricketers. Between the England series and the South Africa tour, the PCB imposed fines totaling PKR 3.3 million for various infractions, including curfew violations and tardiness. However, Jamal’s case stood out due to its political undertones.

    Also READ: NZ vs PAK 2025: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand

    Repercussions for Aamer Jamal

    The consequences for Jamal extended beyond financial penalties. Reports suggest that his political expression may have influenced his exclusion from Pakistan’s squad for the recently ended ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This decision reflects the PCB’s firm stance against mixing politics with cricket.

    Other disciplinary actions: A string of fines

    Jamal was not the only player penalized during this period. Several other cricketers faced fines for breaching team protocols. Salman Ali Agha, Saim Ayub, and Abdullah Shafique were fined PKR 500,000 each for returning late to their hotel during Pakistan’s white-ball tour of Australia. Whereas, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abbas Afridi, and Usman Khan were fined $200 each for curfew violations during the South Africa series. These incidents highlight growing concerns about discipline within Pakistan’s cricket team, especially following their disappointing early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    Jamal’s fine has reignited debates about whether athletes should be allowed to express political views while representing their country. Supporters argue that players are entitled to freedom of expression, especially when addressing issues, they deeply care about. Critics, however, contend that such actions can polarize fans and distract from the game.

    The PCB’s decision underscores its commitment to maintaining discipline and neutrality in cricket. By penalizing Jamal and other players, the board aims to set a precedent that ensures players focus solely on their performance on the field.

    Also READ: Mickey Arthur lambasts Pakistan cricket’s chaos while backing Jason Gillespie in feud with Aaqib Javed

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  • Mumbai Indians clinch WPL 2025 title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final

    Mumbai Indians clinch WPL 2025 title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final

    Mumbai Indians (MI) emerged victorious in a thrilling final of the Women’s Premier League 2025, edging past Delhi Capitals (DC) by 8 runs at Brabourne Stadium on Saturday, March 15. The nail-biting contest saw Mumbai defend a competitive total of 149/7, securing their second championship title with a disciplined bowling performance.

    Mumbai Indians sets a competitive target

    After being put in to bat first, Mumbai Indians got off to a shaky start, losing both Yastika Bhatia (8 off 14) and Hayley Matthews (3 off 10) cheaply. However, the experienced Natalie Sciver-Brunt (30 off 28) steadied the innings alongside captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who played a captain’s knock. Kaur’s explosive 66 off 44 balls, laced with 9 fours and 2 sixes, provided the much-needed momentum for Mumbai. Late contributions from Amanjot Kaur (14 off 7) and G Kamalini (10 off 7) pushed the team’s total to 149/7 in 20 overs.

    For Delhi Capitals, Marizanne Kapp was the standout bowler, delivering a miserly spell of 2/11 in her 4 overs. Jess Jonassen (2/26) and NR-Shree Charani (2/43) also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs, restricting Mumbai to a chaseable target.

    Also WATCH: Marizanne Kapp cleans up Hayley Matthews with an unplayable delivery in DC vs MI 2025 WPL Final

    Delhi Capitals falls short despite Marizanne  Kapp’s heroics

    In response, Delhi Capitals suffered an early blow as openers Meg Lanning (13 off 9) and Shafali Verma (4 off 9) failed to provide a solid start. Jemimah Rodrigues (30 off 21) showed promise, but wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals, putting pressure on the middle order.

    Kapp once again emerged as the key player for Delhi, fighting hard with a counter-attacking 40 off 26 balls, including 5 fours and 2 sixes. Niki Prasad’s composed 25 not out off 23 balls kept the chase alive, but Mumbai’s bowlers held their nerve in the death overs.

    Natalie Sciver starred with the ball as well, claiming 3/30 in her 4 overs, while Amelia Kerr (2/25) and Shabnim Ismail (1/15) ensured Mumbai’s grip on the game remained firm. Saika Ishaque and Matthews also picked up crucial wickets to restrict Delhi Capitals to 141/9, sealing the victory for Mumbai by 8 runs.

    Also READ: NZ-W vs SL-W, 2nd T20I – Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Cricket Tips & Pitch Report | New Zealand vs Sri Lanka

    This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.



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  • NZ vs PAK 2025, T20I series: Broadcast & Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, New Zealand, UK and other countries

    NZ vs PAK 2025, T20I series: Broadcast & Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, New Zealand, UK and other countries

    The cricketing world is abuzz as Pakistan, under the leadership of Salman Ali Agha, prepare to face Michael Bracewell’s New Zealand in a five-match T20I series. The much-anticipated series kicks off on Sunday, March 16, at the picturesque Hagley Oval in Christchurch. With fresh faces and revamped squads, both teams are set to bring an exciting brand of cricket to fans worldwide.

    A fresh start for Pakistan: New leadership and bold choices

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made significant changes to its T20I setup. Following a disappointing exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB decided to drop experienced players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, popularly known as “RizBar,” from the T20I squad. Criticized for their conservative batting during powerplays, their omission marks a shift toward a more aggressive approach. Salman has been appointed captain, with Shadab Khan as vice-captain, signaling a new era for Pakistan’s white-ball cricket.

    The squad also includes three uncapped players—Abdul Samad, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Ali—who earned their spots through stellar performances in domestic tournaments. This bold selection strategy reflects Pakistan’s focus on grooming young talent ahead of major tournaments like the Asia Cup 2025 and ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

    New Zealand’s squad: A mix of experience and opportunity

    New Zealand enter the series without several key players such as Devon Conway, Mitchell Santner, and Glenn Phillips, who are committed to IPL duties. In their absence, Bracewell leads a squad featuring a mix of established names and returning stars. Notably, Kyle Jamieson will feature in the first three games before making way for Matt Henry and Zak Foulkes in the latter matches.

    The Black Caps’ squad includes exciting talents like Finn Allen and Daryl Mitchell alongside seasoned campaigners Ish Sodhi and Jimmy Neesham. This blend of youth and experience positions New Zealand as a formidable opponent despite the absence of some regulars.

    Also READ: NZ vs PAK 2025: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against New Zealand

    Pakistan tour of New Zealand 2025 Schedule

    The five-match T20I series will be played across some of New Zealand’s most iconic cricket grounds:

    • March 16: 1st T20I at Hagley Oval, Christchurch
    • March 18: 2nd T20I at University Oval, Dunedin
    • March 21: 3rd T20I at Eden Park, Auckland
    • March 23: 4th T20I at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
    • March 26: 5th T20I at Sky Stadium, Wellington

    Following the T20Is, the teams will compete in a three-match ODI series from March 29 to April 5.

    Squads

    New Zealand: Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (games 4 and 5 only), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (games 4 and 5 only), Kyle Jamieson (games 1, 2 and 3 only), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke (games 1, 2 and 3 only), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi

    Pakistan: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Shadab Khan (vice-captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Jahandad Khan, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Haris, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousaf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim and Usman Khan

    Broadcast and Live streaming details

    • India: Sony Sports Network, Sony Liv, Fancode
    • New Zealand: TVNZ 1, TVNZ+
    • Pakistan: Ten Sports
    • Australia: Kayo Sports
    • UK: TNT
    • South Africa: SuperSport Grandstand

    Also READ: NZ vs PAK 2025: New Zealand’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Pakistan

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