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Tag: IPL 2025

  • RCB Playing 11 vs KKR- IPL 2025, Match 1

    RCB Playing 11 vs KKR- IPL 2025, Match 1

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be looking to start their campaign in IPL 2025 on a strong note as they will be facing reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The mouthwatering clash is scheduled to be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday (March 22).

    RCB will be keen to start their campaign strongly and avoid the type of situation they were in last season. They were on the verge of getting knocked out at the league stage in IPL 2024 after losing seven of their first eight matches.

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    However, they staged a remarkable turnaround and won six games in a row to make it to the playoffs. Their dream run finally came to an end with a defeat against Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator.

    For IPL 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have named Rajat Patidar as their new captain after releasing Faf du Plessis. They will be hoping that their new captain finally leads them to glory.

    So as RCB gear up for the tournament opener, we are taking a look at the RCB Playing 11 for their game against KKR.

    RCB Playing 11 vs KKR- IPL 2025, Match 1:

    Openers: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt (wk)

    With Faf du Plessis no more a part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru camp, the franchise is set to have a new opening combination for IPL 2025. Phil Salt is likely to replace du Plessis in the RCB Playing 11 this season. Salt plied his trade for KKR last season and played a key role in the team’s triumphant campaign.

    He has good knowledge of the conditions at the Eden Gardens and will be looking to make the most of it. The right-handed batsman had scored 435 runs in 12 games at a strike rate of over 180 last season.

    Partnering with Salt at the top of the order is none other than batting superstar Virat Kohli. With Royal Challengers Bengaluru desperate to win their first-ever IPL trophy, the onus will be on the senior batsman to deliver with the bat once again. Kohli had a standout season with the bat last year where he finished the tournament as the highest run-scorer.

    In a season where no other batsman could even reach the 600-run mark, Kohli had scored 741 runs at a strike rate of over 150. He will be looking to enjoy yet another prolific season with the bat for the Bengaluru-based franchise.

    Middle-order batsmen and allrounders: Rajat Patidar (c), Devdutt Padikkal, Liam Livingstone, Tim David, Krunal Pandya

    RCB have formed a formidable middle-order for IPL 2025 and they will be hoping that the players live up to the expectations. The onus will be on the newly-appointed captain Rajat Patidar to lead the team from the front.

    Patidar impressed one and all with his batting especially against spinners last year and will look to deliver once again.

    He had scored 395 runs last season at a strike rate of almost 180. Royal Challengers Bengaluru has also re-signed Devdutt Padikkal and will be hoping that the local boy rediscovers his mojo and enjoy a good season with the bat. He played for RCB in 2020 and 2021 and scored more than 400 runs in both seasons.

    The all-rounders and the finishers in the RCB Playing 11 are expected to be Liam Livingstone, Tim David, and Krunal Pandya. All three players can change the course of the game and they will be keen to start their journey with RCB on a good note.

    Livingstone has played 39 IPL games so far and has scored 939 runs at a strike rate of 160, including six half-centuries. He has taken 11 wickets as well with his part-time bowling.

    David, on the other hand, could blow just any team away on his day. He played for Mumbai Indians last season. Krunal can deliver match-winning performances with both bat and ball. An experienced allrounder, Krunal has played 127 IPL matches so far, scoring 1647 runs in addition to taking 76 wickets.

    Bowlers: Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma

    The bowling lineup has always been the weak link for Royal Challengers Bengaluru but the franchise has managed to form a strong lineup for this season. They have added several proven campaigners to their squad and will be hoping that the players live up to the expectations.

    Experienced pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar is set to lead the pace attack with Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal as the other fast bowlers. On the other hand, Suyash Sharma is expected to be the sole frontline spinner in the RCB Playing 11 with the likes of Livingstone and Krunal being the other spin bowling options.

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  • From Harsha Bhogle to Ravi Shastri: Star Sports announces elite commentary panel for IPL 2025

    From Harsha Bhogle to Ravi Shastri: Star Sports announces elite commentary panel for IPL 2025

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) has become synonymous with thrilling cricket, showcasing the best talents globally and drawing millions of viewers each season. As the IPL gears up for its 2025 edition, excitement is palpable among fans and players alike. The tournament, which kicks off on March 22, 2025, promises to deliver a month and a half of exhilarating matches culminating in the grand finale on May 25 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. This season will feature ten teams battling it out over 75 matches, with the Kolkata Knight Riders facing off against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the opening game.

    A significant aspect of the IPL experience is the commentary panel, which enhances the viewing experience through expert insights, engaging storytelling, and lively banter. The 2025 commentary lineup is set to include a mix of seasoned commentators and fresh faces, ensuring that fans receive a diverse range of perspectives throughout the tournament. This year’s panel not only features beloved veterans like Harsha Bhogle and Ravi Shastri but also introduces new names that promise to bring their unique flair to the broadcasts.

    One of the most exciting additions to the IPL 2025 commentary team is former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson. Known for his calm demeanor and astute cricketing mind, Williamson’s insights will undoubtedly resonate with fans. His transition from player to commentator allows him to share his wealth of knowledge about the game, making him a valuable asset to the commentary team.

    Another notable inclusion is Anil Chaudhary, a former umpire who has officiated in numerous IPL seasons. After retiring from on-field duties, Chaudhary has taken on the role of commentator, bringing his extensive experience and understanding of cricket to the microphone. His ability to analyse plays and decisions from an umpire’s perspective will provide viewers with a unique angle on the game.

    Also READ: Kane Williamson set to return to IPL 2025 in a new role

    The IPL 2025 commentary panel is a mix of established voices and newcomers across various languages, catering to India’s diverse audience. Here’s a comprehensive list of commentators expected to grace our screens this season:

    English Commentators

    • Harsha Bhogle
    • Ravi Shastri
    • Sunil Gavaskar
    • Brian Lara
    • Matthew Hayden
    • Kevin Pietersen
    • Michael Clarke
    • Sanjay Manjrekar
    • Aaron Finch
    • Ian Bishop
    • Nick Knight
    • Simon Katich
    • Danny Morrison
    • Chris Morris
    • Samuel Badree
    • Katey Martin
    • Graeme Swann
    • Deep Dasgupta
    • Mpumelelo Mbangwa
    • Anjum Chopra
    • Murali Kartik
    • WV Raman
    • Natalie Germanos
    • Daren Ganga
    • Mark Howard
    • Rohan Gavaskar
    • Kane Williamson

    Hindi Commentators

    • Harbhajan Singh
    • Irfan Pathan
    • Ambati Rayudu
    • Ravi Shastri (also features in English)
    • Sunil Gavaskar (also features in English)
    • Varun Aaron
    • Mithali Raj
    • Mohammad Kaif
    • Sanjay Manjrekar (also features in English)
    • Imran Tahir
    • Wasim Jaffer
    • Gurkeerat Mann
    • Unmukt Chand
    • Vivek Razdan
    • Rajat Bhatia
    • Deep Dasgupta (also features in English)
    • Raman Bhanot
    • Anil Chaudhary
    • Padmjeet Sehrawat
    • Aakash Chopra
    • Jatin Sapru

    Commentators play an essential role in shaping the viewer’s experience during IPL matches. Their expertise not only brings excitement but also offers insights into player strategies, match situations, and historical contexts that enrich the audience’s understanding of the game.

    As IPL 2025 approaches, fans eagerly anticipate hearing their favorite commentators’ voices again. The blend of humour from personalities like Shastri and insightful analysis from Bhogle creates an engaging atmosphere that keeps viewers glued to their screens.

    Moreover, with new faces like Williamson joining seasoned veterans, there’s an added layer of freshness that can invigorate discussions around matches. This dynamic mix is crucial for keeping long-time viewers entertained while attracting new fans who may be tuning into cricket for the first time.

    Also WATCH: Ravichandran Ashwin plays chess with world champion D Gukesh at Chepauk, presents a CSK jersey



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  • IPL 2025: Salary of Delhi Capitals (DC) players; check out how much Axar Patel and KL Rahul earn

    IPL 2025: Salary of Delhi Capitals (DC) players; check out how much Axar Patel and KL Rahul earn

    Delhi Capitals (DC) are set to enter IPL 2025 with renewed energy and a well-balanced squad, aiming to secure their maiden IPL title. Over the years, DC have been a team full of promise but have often fallen short in crucial moments. However, with a fresh mix of experienced campaigners and dynamic young talents, the franchise looks stronger than ever. The management has made key acquisitions in the auction, ensuring that both the batting and bowling departments have depth and firepower.

    With a squad packed with match-winners, Delhi Capitals will be eager to improve upon their sixth-place finish in the previous season. Their strength lies in their balanced combination of top-order anchors, explosive middle-order hitters, and a lethal bowling attack. As the team gears up for the highly competitive IPL 2025 season, fans can expect an aggressive brand of cricket from DC, one that combines strategic depth with high-intensity performances.

    DC to shine under new leadership of Axar Patel

    One of the biggest talking points for DC this season is their leadership transition, with Axar Patel taking over as captain. With Rishabh Pant moving to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Axar steps into a crucial role, leading a side filled with experience and youth. While he may not have extensive captaincy experience at the IPL level, Axar has proven his leadership qualities in domestic cricket, boasting an impressive win percentage. His tactical acumen, calm demeanor, and all-round ability make him a strong choice to guide DC toward success. Under his leadership, the team will look to play aggressive, fearless cricket, making the most of their squad’s all-round capabilities.

    A lineup full of stars

    Delhi Capitals have assembled a formidable squad for IPL 2025, featuring a mix of proven veterans and rising stars. With KL Rahul and Faf du Plessis providing stability at the top, Tristan Stubbs and Sameer Rizvi adding firepower in the middle order, and Axar anchoring the all-round department, DC possesses a lineup that can take on any team. Their bowling unit, led by Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, and T. Natarajan, ensures that they have the firepower to dominate both powerplay and death overs. This star-studded lineup, combined with the presence of quality impact players, makes Delhi Capitals a strong contender for the trophy this season.

    Also READ: From Virender Sehwag to Axar Patel: Full list of Delhi Capitals’ captains in IPL history

    Delhi Capitals player salaries for IPL 2025

    • KL Rahul: INR 14 crore
    • Mitchell Starc: INR 11.75 crore
    • T. Natarajan: INR 10.75 crore
    • Jake Fraser-McGurk: INR 9 crore
    • Ashutosh Sharma: INR 3.80 crore
    • Mohit Sharma: INR 2.20 crore
    • Sameer Rizvi: INR 95 lakh
    • Karun Nair: INR 50 lakh
    • Axar Patel: INR 16.50 crore
    • Kuldeep Yadav: INR 13.25 crore
    • Tristan Stubbs: INR 10 crore
    • Abhishek Porel: INR 4 crore
    • Faf du Plessis: INR 2 crore
    • Tripurana Vijay: INR 30 lakh
    • Vipraj Nigam: INR 50 lakh
    • Darshan Nalkande: INR 30 lakh
    • Ajay Jadav Mandal: INR 30 lakh
    • Manvanth Kumar L: INR 30 lakh
    • Madhav Tiwari: INR 40 lakh
    • Donovan Ferreira: INR 75 lakh
    • Dushmantha Chameera: INR 75 lakh
    • Mukesh Kumar: INR 8 crore

    Also READ: IPL 2025 – Salary of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) players; check out how much Ruturaj Gaikwad and MS Dhoni earn

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  • IPL 2025: Punjab Kings’ best playing XI and impact players

    IPL 2025: Punjab Kings’ best playing XI and impact players

    As anticipation builds for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to leave a strong impact in the the tournament with a renewed squad and well-thought-out leadership.

    With Shreyas Iyer at the helm, who has a wealth of experience from past seasons in the league, PBKS looks to end their title wait since their lone final participation in 2014. The franchise has spent big on a combination of experienced internationals and young guns, including dynamic all-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Azmatullah Omarzai, and young hopefuls like Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh. Under the coaching of Ricky Ponting, the team aims to develop an integral unit to fight for the championship.

    Punjab Kings’ best playing XI for the IPL 2025

    1. Prabhsimran Singh 

    • Role: Opening wicketkeeper-batter
    • Description: Prabhsimran Singh is recognized for his strong batting and capability to score rapidly in the top-order. As a wicketkeeper, he enhances the batting depth while making sure that there is a consistent back-up available behind the wickets.
    • Impact: His batting at the top of the order will have significant repercussions for the success of the innings. A good beginning can take pressure off the middle order, which makes him an important player to observe.

    2. Josh Inglis

    • Role: Top-order batter
    • Description: An Australian explosive batter, Inglis adds power to the top order. He is capable of boosting the scoring rate and anchoring innings if needed.
    • Impact: His spin-playing skills will be crucial in Indian conditions, particularly during middle overs where games can be won or lost.

    3. Shreyas Iyer 

    • Role: Middle-order batter and captain
    • Description: Shreyas Iyer is an experienced player with plenty of experience playing in high-pressure games. His captaincy skills and batting talent make him a pillar of the PBKS squad.
    • Impact: As captain, Iyer’s tactical choice will decide the matches. His capability to anchor games while ramping up when the situation calls for it will be pivotal for PBKS’s victories.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 – Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer discloses his preferred batting position for the franchise

    4. Glenn Maxwell 

    • Role: All-rounder
    • Description: With his destructive hitting and useful off-spin all-round, Maxwell is one of the most potent players of T20 cricket. His experience in international leagues brings insightful dimension to the team.
    • Impact: Maxwell can change games single-handedly with his batting; his ability to bowl crucial overs makes him an invaluable asset, especially in tight matches.

    5. Azmatullah Omarzai 

    • Role: All-rounder
    • Description: Omarzai is an emerging talent who can contribute with both bat and ball. He adds depth to the squad with his all-round capabilities.
    • Impact: His performances can provide crucial support in both innings, especially if top-order batsmen fail to deliver.

    6. Shashank Singh

    • Role: Lower middle-order batter
    • Description: A young emerging player, Shashank has a finishing role and can score big shots in the death overs.
    • Impact: His finishing role will prove crucial in closely fought games when runs have to be scored at a brisk rate towards the end of the innings.

    7. Suryansh Shedge 

    • Role: Lower middle-order batter
    • Description: Another young talent with potential in domestic leagues, Shedge should deliver when required.
    • Impact: His capacity to rotate strikes and form alliances will be crucial in steadying innings during tough periods.

    8. Marco Jansen

    • Role: All-rounder
    • Description: At 6 feet 9 inches, Jansen can get extra bounce from the pitches, which makes him a difficult bowler for batters. Apart from his bowling skills, he is not too shabby with the bat either, providing useful runs under pressure situations frequently.
    • Impact: Jansen’s ability to play in multiple roles brings immense depth to the Punjab team. With the ball, he can provide match-winning breakthroughs, particularly in death overs and on bouncy surfaces. As a batter, he offers explosive hitting possibilities in the lower order, which can turn the tide of close games.

    9. Harpreet Brar 

    • Role: Spin bowler
    • Description: Brar is famous for his left-arm orthodox spin, which proves useful on turning pitches. He introduces diversity into PBKS’s bowling arsenal.
    • Impact: His ability to take wickets during middle overs can shift momentum in favour of PBKS.

    10. Arshdeep Singh 

    • Role: Fast bowler
    • Description: Arshdeep has become one of the finest death bowlers in recent years because of his capability to deliver yorkers and slower balls in pressure situations.
    • Impact: His performances in do-or-die situations can win or lose matches, and hence he is an important player for PBKS.

    11. Yuzvendra Chahal 

    • Role: Spin bowler
    • Description: A seasoned spinner with wicket-taking skills and variations, Chahal brings experience and control to PBKS’s bowling department.
    • Impact: The ability of Chahal to take wickets at important moments in the match can have a major impact on the result.

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

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    TAGS: Arshdeep Singh Azmatullah Omarzai Glenn Maxwell Indian Premier League IPL 2025 Marco Jansen PBKS Punjab Kings Shreyas Iyer Yuzvendra Chahal

    CATEGORY: Featured IPL Punjab Kings Shreyas Iyer

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  • Michael Vaughan picks the winner of IPL 2025

    Michael Vaughan picks the winner of IPL 2025

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is all set to begin on March 22, and the excitement among cricket fans is at an all-time high. With teams making strategic changes, strengthening their squads, and gearing up for the mega event, expectations are soaring. The upcoming season promises thrilling encounters, high-pressure moments, and intense rivalries as franchises battle it out for the coveted trophy.

    As the tournament nears, the round of predictions has begun, with fans and cricket experts weighing in on their favorites for the season. Several analysts have started picking their semifinalists and potential winners, sparking discussions across social media and cricketing platforms.

    Michael Vaughan names the winner of IPL 2025

    Former England captain Michael Vaughan has made an early prediction for IPL 2025, backing Mumbai Indians (MI) as the strongest contender to lift the trophy. According to Vaughan, the Hardik Pandya-led side appears to be the most balanced team in the tournament and has the potential to go all the way.

    In a video shared by Cricbuzz, Vaughan confidently picked Mumbai as his title favorite, saying, “Mumbai Indians under the captaincy of Hardik Pandya looks like the strongest team and can win the trophy this time.”

    However, Vaughan, known for his bold predictions, took a lighthearted approach by acknowledging his track record with past predictions. Smiling in the video, he added, “Many of my predictions prove wrong, so let’s see what happens this time.”

    Also READ: CSK or MI? Brett Lee picks the possible winner of IPL 2025

    A strong side aiming for another title

    Mumbai Indians are one of the most successful franchise in IPL history, having lifted the trophy five times. They have consistently been among the top-performing teams in the tournament, boasting a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent.

    With Pandya now at the helm, MI will be aiming to add a sixth IPL title to their illustrious record. The all-rounder, who previously led Gujarat Titans to IPL glory in 2022, will look to bring his aggressive leadership and tactical acumen to guide Mumbai to another championship.

    As the tournament unfolds, it will be interesting to see if Vaughan’s prediction turns out to be accurate or if another team emerges as the dark horse of IPL 2025.

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians (MI) announces replacement for South Africa’s Lizaad Williams

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  • IPL 2025: Salary of Rajasthan Royals (RR) players; check out how much Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal earn

    IPL 2025: Salary of Rajasthan Royals (RR) players; check out how much Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal earn

    Rajasthan Royals (RR) will enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 with a renewed sense of determination, eager to secure their second IPL title after their triumph in 2008. Despite a strong start in IPL 2024, the team faltered in the latter half, missing out on a deep playoff run. This setback prompted significant reinforcements at the 2025 mega auction, ensuring a well-balanced squad that can handle pressure situations better. The frustration of not converting potential into success has fueled their desire to go all the way this season.

    Strategic leadership shift: Rahul Dravid’s influence

    A major change for RR in IPL 2025 is the appointment of Rahul Dravid as head coach. Dravid’s arrival signals a shift in tactical approach, emphasizing mental resilience, adaptability, and strategic consistency – areas where Rajasthan have struggled in previous seasons. His vast coaching experience, including guiding India to multiple ICC finals, is expected to bring much-needed stability and direction to the team. With Sanju Samson retaining captaincy, the Royals now have a strong leadership duo aiming to instill discipline and execute match-winning strategies.

    Core players and key additions strengthening RR

    RR have retained a solid core, with Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel forming the backbone of their batting unit. These players have been instrumental in Rajasthan’s recent campaigns, providing explosiveness at the top and stability in the middle order.

    To strengthen their squad further, RR made two significant signings at the auction:

    • Jofra Archer – The return of Archer adds raw pace and firepower to the bowling attack. If fully fit, his ability to bowl quick, aggressive spells in the powerplay and at the death will be a game-changer. His presence also provides much-needed balance to the fast-bowling unit, which lacked consistency last season.
    • Nitish Rana – A valuable left-handed batter who can slot in both at the top and in the middle order. Rana’s aggressive batting style and ability to counter spin make him a versatile asset in RR’s lineup.

    Also READ: Rajasthan Royals IPL 2025: 5 players to watch out for ft. Yashasvi Jaiswal

    Rajasthan Royals (RR) player salaries for IPL 2025 

    • Sanju Samson – INR 18 crore
    • Yashasvi Jaiswal – INR 18 crore
    • Riyan Parag – INR 14 crore
    • Dhruv Jurel – INR 14 crore
    • Shimron Hetmyer (overseas) – INR 11 crore
    • Sandeep Sharma – INR 4 crore
    • Jofra Archer (overseas) – INR 12.50 crore
    • Maheesh Theekshana (overseas) – INR 4.40 crore
    • Wanindu Hasaranga (overseas) – INR 5.25 crore
    • Akash Madhwal – INR 1.20 crore
    • Kumar Kartikeya – INR 30 lakh
    • Nitish Rana – INR 4.20 crore
    • Tushar Deshpande – INR 6.50 crore
    • Shubham Dubey – INR 80 lakh
    • Yudhvir Charak – INR 35 lakh
    • Fazalhaq Farooqi (overseas) – INR 2 crore
    • Vaibhav Suryavanshi – INR 1.10 crore
    • Kwena Maphaka (overseas) – INR 1.50 crore
    • Kunal Rathore – INR 30 lakh
    • Ashok Sharma – INR 30 lakh

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Rajasthan Royals’ best playing XI and impact players

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  • IPL 2025: Ryan Rickelton vs Will Jacks! Hardik Pandya makes revelation on Rohit Sharma’s opening partner

    IPL 2025: Ryan Rickelton vs Will Jacks! Hardik Pandya makes revelation on Rohit Sharma’s opening partner

    Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya talked about who will be opening the innings for the franchise alongside Rohit Sharma in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. He said that they would take the call based on the needs of the team.

    Mumbai Indians will be entering into the IPL 2025 as one of the favorites to win the league. The Hardik Pandya-led side has a lot of match-winners in the team, and it’s fair to say if they play to their potential, no one can stop them from winning the tournament.

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    Mumbai Indians have an Indian core of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Tilak Varma, along with other superstars. The five-time champions have all the bases covered from top to bottom, and they now would be hoping to execute their plans to perfection.

    We will take a call depending on what the team needs – Hardik Pandya on Rohit Sharma’s opening partner for IPL 2025

    Former skipper Rohit Sharma will be opening the innings, but there is no clarity on who will be there with him at the top. They have options in Will Jacks and Ryan Rickelton, but so far, there seems to be no clarity on who will start in the XI.

    Skipper Pandya also didn’t reveal who will be there with Rohit Sharma. Speaking to reporters ahead of the start of the season, he said: “We will take a call depending on what the team needs.”

    I like to play according to the situation – Hardik Pandya

    Pandya also talked about his batting position, saying that he likes to play according to situations. He stressed that he has taken away specific batting number from his game. He added:

    “Batting order – I have never taken that much into my cricket. I like to play according to the situation. Specific batting number has gone from my game, if my team needs me to bat at 4 or 7, I am okay with that!”

    With this group, considering the talent, we will look ahead to enjoy the games – Hardik Pandya

    Hardik Pandya further talked about the strategy of the team for the IPL 2025. He said that he has told his team to play good cricket and do the process right. He added:

    “Just play good cricket. Being with each other at the same point in time. Doing the processes right. Go and execute. With this group, considering the talent, we will look ahead to enjoy the games.”

    Pandya will be missing the first game of IPL 2025 for Mumbai Indians due to the ban that he faced last year for maintaining a slow over rate. In his absence, Suryakumar Yadav will be leading the team in the first game.

    Mumbai Indians will be opening their campaign in the IPL 2025 against Chennai Super Kings. The match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (23rd March).

    Read Also: Shaheen Afridi? Salman Agha demanded the ‘Toxic’ player’s axing for NZ T20Is, but PCB refused

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  • Rajasthan Royals Full Squad, IPL 2025 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Players List, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Rajasthan Royals Full Squad, IPL 2025 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Players List, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    Rajasthan Royals (RR) are heading into IPL 2025 with hope and optimism, having refurbished their squad. They have a settled skipper Sanju Samson and head coach Rahul Dravid at the helm to look forward to turning around past performances while learning from previous errors.

    Key players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been in explosive touch, and Jofra Archer, back from injury, are crucial to RR’s game plan this season. The franchise has made efforts to shore up its bowling attack, bringing in players like Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana. But the lack of big guns like Jos Buttler and Yuzvendra Chahal makes one wonder about depth in the batting order.

    With a balanced mix of youth and experience, the Royals are poised for a competitive season, looking to make a significant playoff push and potentially secure their second IPL title.

    IPL 2025 schedule for Rajasthan Royals

    RRR will begin their campaign against the last year’s runner-up Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 23 at Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad.

    Here is their complete schedule:

    • March 23 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad at Hyderabad (3:30 pm IST)
    • March 26 – vs Kolkata Knight Riders at Guwahati (7:30 pm IST)
    • March 30 – vs Chennai Super Kings at Guwahati (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 5 – vs Punjab Kings at New Chandigarh (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 9 – vs Gujarat Titans at Ahmedabad (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 13 – vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Jaipur (3:30 pm IST)
    • April 16 – vs Delhi Capitals at Delhi (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 19 – vs Lucknow Super Giants at Jaipur (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 24 – vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Bengaluru (7:30 pm IST)
    • April 28 – vs Gujarat Titans at Jaipur (7:30 pm IST)
    • May 1 – vs Mumbai Indians at Jaipur (7:30 pm IST)
    • May 4 – vs Kolkata Knight Riders at Kolkata (3:30 pm IST)
    • May 12 – vs Chennai Super Kings at Chennai (3:30 pm IST)
    • May 16 – vs Punjab Kings at Jaipur (7:30 pm IST)

    *IST= GMT + 5:30 hrs

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

    RR full squad for IPL 2025

    Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel, Kunal Singh Rathore, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Wanindu Hasaranga, Akash Madhwal, Ashok Sharma, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Jofra Archer, Kumar Kartikeya, Kwena Maphaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande, Yudhvir Singh

    Broadcast and Live Streaming details

    All RR matches would be broadcasted on Star Sports Network in India. For live streaming, the fans could view the JioHotstar app and website. The matches would also be live on various international channels such as WillowTV and Kayo Sports depending on their respective locations.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 – Rajasthan Royals’ best playing XI and impact players

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  • IPL 2025: Big blow for LSG! Akash Deep RULED OUT of…

    IPL 2025: Big blow for LSG! Akash Deep RULED OUT of…

    Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have faced yet another injury blow ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. As per the reports in Times of India, it is learned that Akash Deep also is unlikely to feature in the first few games of the tournament owing to the injury.

    Akash Deep, who has been out of the action since the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, is yet to regain his full fitness ahead of the IPL 2025. The pacer suffered a back injury during the fourth game of the Australia series and, since then, has been working hard to regain his fitness.

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    Akash Deep has been working hard at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru after his injury in Australia

    Akash Deep has been working hard at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru since then. The reports claimed that he is yet to get the fitness clearance from the NCA team. Hence, Akash Deep might miss the first few games of the tournament, and it now has put Lucknow Super Giants in trouble.

    Akash Deep joins Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan, and Mayank Yadav in the list of fast bowlers who are injured from the Lucknow Super Giants camp. The trio are yet to join the team, and so far, there isn’t clarity if they will be there for the team in the IPL 2025.

    The reports claimed that Mayank Yadav has started bowling at the BCCI’s CEO but there isn’t any confirmation about his arrival in Lucknow. He hasn’t started bowling in full tilt and it is expected that he won’t be there in the initial games of the IPL 2025.

    Mohsin Khan suffers calf injury, Avesh Khan attains full fitness ahead of the season but is yet to join LSG

    Talking about Mohsin Khan, the pacer suffered a calf injury and there are very less chances that he might feature in the IPL 2025. However, there is some positive news for Lucknow Super Giants related to Avesh Khan. The fast bowler reportedly has attained full fitness ahead of the season.

    It is learned that although he has achieved full fitness when he will join Lucknow Super Giants is yet to be confirmed. The reports also added that the franchise might also hand contracts to Shardul Thakur and Shivam Mavi before the league starts.

    Shardul Thakur and Shivam Mavi have been training with Lucknow Super Giants as a cover

    Shardul Thakur and Shivam Mavi have been training with Lucknow Super Giants for the last few days. The duo went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction and will have a great opportunity to make their case strong for the future with their performances in the league.

    Lucknow Super Giants will be captained by Rishabh Pant in the IPL 2025. They will open their campaign against Delhi Capitals in Visakhapatnam on March 24. They had a poor season last year and would be keen to stage a strong comeback in the upcoming season.

    Also read: Sourav Ganguly tears apart Rishabh Pant over ‘ultra-aggressive’ Test approach: “You can’t keep swinging”

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  • RCB, Punjab Kings or Delhi Capitals! Who will win their first-ever IPL title in 2025?

    RCB, Punjab Kings or Delhi Capitals! Who will win their first-ever IPL title in 2025?

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season will present yet another opportunity for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) to finally break their long-standing title drought. Despite featuring some of the biggest names in world cricket, these three franchises have fallen short on multiple occasions. With revamped squads, new leadership, and a renewed sense of purpose, could this be the year when one of them finally lifts the coveted IPL trophy?

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): Can no. 18 inspire a historic triumph?

    RCB have been one of the most-followed and most-discussed franchises in IPL history, yet they remain without a title despite reaching the final three times (2009, 2011, and 2016). The 18th season of the IPL carries an extra layer of significance for them, as it corresponds with the jersey number of their biggest icon, Virat Kohli, who has been with the franchise since the league’s inception in 2008.

    Last season, RCB dramatically turned their campaign around after a string of poor results, winning six consecutive matches to qualify for the playoffs. However, their title dream was crushed by Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Eliminator. The defeat once again highlighted their long-standing weaknesses – an over-reliance on star batters and an inconsistent bowling attack.

    For IPL 2025, RCB have acquired the services of explosive batters in form of Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt forming the backbone of their squad. While their batting unit has historically been dominant, their death bowling and ability to handle crunch moments in knockouts have often let them down. If RCB can address their bowling frailties, particularly in the death overs, and ensure that their middle order fires under pressure, this could finally be the year that they silence their critics and bring home their first IPL trophy.

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

    Punjab Kings (PBKS): A major revamp

    PBKS have undergone a significant transformation ahead of IPL 2025, making some bold moves at the mega auction in November. They decided to start fresh by retaining only two uncapped players – Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh – before making some big-money signings to completely revamp the squad.

    The biggest headline-grabbing move was acquiring Shreyas Iyer for INR 26.75 crore and naming him their new captain. PBKS have struggled with leadership consistency over the years, frequently changing captains and failing to build a stable core. By investing in Iyer, they have shown their intent to have a long-term leader who can guide them to their first title.

    Additionally, PBKS brought back some of their former stars, including Arshdeep Singh, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell, while also securing Yuzvendra Chahal to strengthen their spin attack. These acquisitions make them one of the most balanced squads on paper, with a mix of power-hitters, all-rounders, and wicket-taking bowlers.

    However, Punjab’s biggest challenge has always been consistency. Over the years, they have had strong starts but struggled to maintain momentum throughout the season. Their ability to execute game plans under pressure and ensure key players perform in crunch matches will determine if they can finally claim their maiden IPL trophy. If Iyer’s leadership clicks and their key signings deliver, Punjab Kings could have their best shot at the title yet.

    Delhi Capitals (DC): A fresh start under Axar Patel’s leadership

    DC seemed to have found their winning formula between 2019 and 2021, when they made the playoffs three consecutive times, even reaching the final in 2020. However, the last three seasons have been disappointing, as they have failed to make it past the league stage.

    DC’s struggles have been largely attributed to captaincy instability and inconsistent performances from their core players. Rishabh Pant took over as captain in 2021, replacing Iyer, but after missing the entire IPL 2023 season due to injury, DC has now turned to Axar Patel as their new leader for IPL 2025.

    The challenge for DC remains their inability to perform under pressure in big matches. Even in their successful 2020 season, where they reached the final, they were completely outplayed by Mumbai Indians. Despite having a solid team on paper, they have often struggled to close out games in crunch moments.

    For IPL 2025, DC will be desperate to finally get over the line and lift their maiden IPL trophy. They will start their campaign against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on March 24 in Visakhapatnam. If their batting lineup fires consistently, and Axar Patel’s leadership stabilizes the team, they could finally emerge as serious contenders for the title.

    Who has the best chance to win IPL 2025?

    Each of these three franchises has the talent and potential to win their first IPL trophy, but execution and consistency will be key.

    • RCB have the experience of Kohli and new energy of young captain Rajat Patidar, but their bowling unit remains a concern, especially in high-pressure situations.
    • PBKS have made major changes, with Iyer leading a completely revamped squad, but their ability to gel as a team and remain consistent will be tested.
    • DC have trusted Patel to lead the franchise, but their lack of stability in big matches could still be their Achilles’ heel.

    Based on squad depth, balance, and leadership stability, Punjab appear to have the most complete squad on paper. If their big-money signings click, PBKS could be the best bet to finally break their IPL title drought. However, if RCB can overcome their historical weaknesses in knockout matches, they could also have a strong shot at lifting the trophy. The 2025 season will be crucial for all three franchises, and one of them could finally rewrite history by claiming their first-ever IPL title.

    Also READ: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) SWOT analysis for IPL 2025

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