Tag: KL Rahul

  • KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty welcome their first child, it’s a baby girl

    KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty welcome their first child, it’s a baby girl

    Delhi Capitals (DC) batter KL Rahul and his wife Athiya Shetty have been blessed with a baby girl. The couple welcomed their first child on Monday (24th March) in Mumbai and made the news public through social media.

    KL Rahul and his wife Athiya Shetty posted a graphic on Instagram, mentioning that they have been blessed with a baby girl. The picture had written: “Blessed with a baby girl, 24.03.2025, Athiya and Rahul”.

    “Blessed with a baby girl, 24.03.2025, Athiya and Rahul” – KL Rahul and wife welcome baby girl

    Here’s the post:

    KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty started dating each other in 2019. But they kept their relationship private before making things public in 2021 when the India National Cricket Team posted a birthday post for Athiya.

    KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty then married each other in January 2023. And now, in 2025, welcome their first child.

    KL Rahul didn’t feature for Delhi Capitals in game against Lucknow Super Giants due to birth of his child

    The arrival of the baby girl was the reason why KL Rahul didn’t feature in the ongoing game of Delhi Capitals (DC) against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The match is underway at the Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.

    KL Rahul joined Delhi Capitals a few days ago in Visakhapatnam and was expected to play the first game against Lucknow Super Giants. But the India National Cricket Team batter on Sunday (24th March) had to rush back to Mumbai after he learned that his wife Athiya Shetty could give birth to baby anytime.

    KL Rahul reportedly got special permission from the Delhi Capitals management and owners to be with his family

    KL Rahul reportedly got special permission from the Delhi Capitals management and owners to be with his family and miss the first game. The batter now will be available for the next game of the franchise against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 30.

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 provides an opportunity for KL Rahul to assert his authority and make an Indian comeback in T20Is. He recently expressed his desire to play for India in the shortest format of the game again and the league will be a perfect platform for that.

    KL Rahul has been in great form, and he will be a massive factor for Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2025. He was last seen in action during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where he played a key role for his team and helped win the title without even losing a single game in the tournament.

    KL Rahul prepared hard for the IPL as he was seen training with India’s assistant coach Abhishek Nayar in Mumbai. The right-hander is expected to bat in the middle order with Delhi Capitals having less experience there. The management reportedly has conveyed him about the same and he has happily accepted the role.

    Read Also: Ishan Kishan reveals Abhishek Sharma’s warning about SRH’s aggressive approach



    Source link

  • KL Rahul and his actress wife Athiya Shetty become parents to a baby girl

    KL Rahul and his actress wife Athiya Shetty become parents to a baby girl

    Bollywood actress Athiya Shetty and superstar Indian cricketer KL Rahul have stepped into a new chapter of their lives, embracing parenthood. The couple has been blessed with a baby girl, with Athiya and Rahul sharing the joyous news on Instagram on Monday.

    A special moment for KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty

    The announcement quickly went viral, with an outpouring of love and congratulations from fans, celebrities, and the cricketing fraternity. Athiya and Rahul’s joint post reads “Blessed with a baby girl… 24.03.2025,”

    The announcement took everyone by surprise, and within moments, congratulatory messages started pouring in from both Bollywood and cricketing circles. Among the first to extend their wishes were Bollywood stars Kiara Advani, Arjun Kapoor, Tiger Shroff, and Mrunal Thakur, who showered their love and blessings on the new parents.

    Several cricketers also joined in to celebrate the special occasion, including Shikhar Dhawan and Suryakumar Yadav, who extended their wishes in the comment section. Dhawan wrote, “Congrats guys!”, while Suryakumar added, “Congratulations!”, sharing their excitement for the couple’s new journey.

    Athiya and Rahul’s love story has always been admired, and their intimate wedding at Suniel Shetty’s Khandala farmhouse in 2023 was a grand yet private affair, attended only by close family and friends. Now, their journey as parents begins, adding a new chapter to their beautiful relationship.

    Athiya’s heartfelt post on social media confirmed the arrival of their daughter, marking a new milestone in their journey together. The couple, who tied the knot in January 2023, have been one of India’s most beloved celebrity pairs, with their relationship garnering immense admiration from both Bollywood and cricket fans.

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

    KL Rahul missed Delhi Capitals’ IPL 2025 opener against LSG

    While the couple celebrates the arrival of their daughter, KL Rahul’s absence from Delhi Capitals’ Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 opening match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam has been a major talking point.

    Rahul had joined the Delhi squad just a day before the match but was deemed unavailable for selection due to personal reasons. His absence is a big blow for DC, as they look to start their IPL 2025 campaign on a strong note against his former team, LSG.

    Ahead of IPL 2025, KL Rahul was released by Lucknow during the mega auction process in November 2024. He was later acquired by Delhi Capitals for INR 12 crore. The highly anticipated clash between Delhi and Lucknow was expected to feature Rahul against his former franchise, making his absence even more significant. However, fans will now have to wait for his return to the playing XI as he focuses on family commitments.

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

    Source link

  • Will KL Rahul play DC’s IPL 2025 opener against LSG? Answers Axar Patel

    Will KL Rahul play DC’s IPL 2025 opener against LSG? Answers Axar Patel

    Delhi Capitals (DC) are set to clash with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the 4th match of IPL 2025 at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Monday, March 24. However, uncertainty looms over the availability of star player KL Rahul, who recently joined the DC camp.

    KL Rahul’s situation

    Rahul, who was acquired by DC for a staggering ₹14 crores during the IPL 2025 auction, is facing a significant life event as he and his wife, Athiya Shetty, are expecting their first child. Reports indicate that this personal milestone could prevent him from participating in the opening match against his former team, LSG.

    Axar Patel, the newly appointed captain of DC, addressed the media regarding Rahul’s status. “Obviously, he joined the team. We don’t know yet if he’ll play. Right now we don’t know if he is available or not,” Patel stated during a pre-match press conference. This ambiguity has left fans speculating about how this absence might affect DC’s strategy and performance.

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

    The impact of KL Rahul’s absence

    Rahul’s potential absence is a considerable blow for DC. As one of the leading run-scorers in T20 cricket and a key player in India’s recent Champions Trophy victory, his experience and skill would be invaluable against LSG. The match marks a unique encounter as both teams feature players who have switched allegiances; Rahul will be facing his former team while Rishabh Pant, once DC’s captain, now leads LSG after being acquired for a record ₹27 crores.

    Without Rahul, DC will need to rely on other players to step up. The team has made significant changes to its roster, including the addition of Australian pacer Mitchell Starc and Indian bowler T Natarajan. These acquisitions aim to bolster their bowling attack, which will be crucial against LSG’s formidable batting lineup.

    Also READ: DC vs LSG, IPL 2025 – Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Cricket Tips and Pitch Report | Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants

    Source link

  • 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

    Source link

  • Fans and experts go wild as Rohit Sharma’s masterclass seals India’s Champions Trophy 2025 title win against New Zealand

    Fans and experts go wild as Rohit Sharma’s masterclass seals India’s Champions Trophy 2025 title win against New Zealand

    India etched their name in history as they clinched the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title, securing a four-wicket victory over New Zealand in a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Rohit Sharma led from the front with a scintillating 76 off 83 balls, setting the perfect platform for India’s chase of 252. Despite a late surge from New Zealand’s spinners, India held their nerves, with KL Rahul (34) and Ravindra Jadeja (9) steering the team home in the final over. The triumph marked India’s third Champions Trophy title, cementing their dominance in global cricket.

    Rohit Sharma’s aggressive knock lays the foundation for India’s chase

    Chasing a competitive 252, Rohit came out with intent, attacking the Kiwi pacers early to ensure India remained in control. His 105-run partnership with Shubman Gill (31 off 50) provided India with a commanding start. Rohit played with authority, dispatching seven boundaries and three sixes, nullifying the threat of New Zealand’s new-ball bowlers.

    However, just when India seemed to be cruising, New Zealand clawed back into the contest. Gill fell to a moment of brilliance from Glenn Phillips, and Virat Kohli‘s stay was short-lived, dismissed lbw by Michael Bracewell for just 1 run. Rohit’s departure at 122/3 in the 26th over further shifted the momentum, putting India under slight pressure.

    At this crucial juncture, Shreyas Iyer (48 off 62) and Axar Patel (29 off 40) stepped up, keeping the scoreboard ticking. Their 61-run partnership for the fourth wicket ensured India remained on track, resisting the spin duo of Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra. Though Iyer and Patel fell in quick succession, Rahul (34 off 33) and Jadeja (9 off 6) displayed composure under pressure, taking India home with six balls to spare.

    Also WATCH: Glenn Phillips plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Shubman Gill in Champions Trophy 2025 final clash

    India’s bowlers shine to restrict New Zealand to 251

    After losing the toss, India produced a clinical bowling performance, preventing New Zealand from posting a formidable total on a slow Dubai surface. Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) were exceptional, dismantling the Kiwi middle order and stifling their scoring rate.

    New Zealand got off to a promising start, with Rachin Ravindra (37 off 29) and Will Young (15 off 23) ensuring an aggressive powerplay. But Kuldeep’s magic delivery to bowl Ravindra triggered a slowdown, and Kane Williamson (11) soon followed suit, dismissed by the left-arm wrist spinner.

    Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101) stood firm, anchoring the innings, but struggled to accelerate against India’s disciplined spin attack. Tom Latham (14 off 30) and Phillips (34 off 52) chipped in, but wickets at regular intervals meant New Zealand couldn’t build strong partnerships.

    Bracewell (53 off 40) played a counter-attacking knock, smashing three fours and two sixes to push New Zealand past 250. However, with Mohammed Shami (1/74) and Pandya (0/30 in 3 overs) proving expensive, India’s spinners ensured the Kiwis never gained full momentum. Jadeja (1/30 in 10 overs) was outstanding, applying relentless pressure in the middle overs. New Zealand’s total of 251/7 was competitive but not enough to challenge India’s deep batting lineup. With this victory, India continued their dominance in ICC events, securing their third Champions Trophy title, adding to their 2002 (joint-winners) and 2013 triumphs.

    Here’s how fans and experts reacted:

    Also READ: Hardik Pandya’s rumoured girlfriend Jasmin Walia attends Champions Trophy 2025 final, pics go viral



    Source link

  • Fans hail KL Rahul for his gritty knock against Australia in Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal

    Fans hail KL Rahul for his gritty knock against Australia in Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal

    In a riveting semifinal match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India secured a nail-biting four-wicket victory over Australia, thanks in large part to a crucial unbeaten knock by KL Rahul. The match, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday (March 4), saw Rahul’s composed 42 runs from 34 balls seal the win for India, propelling them into their fifth Champions Trophy final.

    Match summary

    Australia, led by Steve Smith, set a competitive target of 264 runs after being bowled out in 48.1 overs. Smith and Alex Carey were the standout performers for Australia, scoring 73 and 61 runs, respectively. India’s chase was anchored by Virat Kohli, who scored an impressive 84 runs off 98 balls. However, his dismissal in the 43rd over injected new life into the contest. Despite this setback, Rahul’s calm and aggressive batting ensured India’s victory with 11 balls to spare.

    KL Rahul’s impact

    Rahul’s innings was pivotal in stabilizing India’s chase after Kohli’s departure. He took on the role of aggressor, hitting two fours and two sixes to ease the pressure. His conversation with Kohli during a drinks break highlighted his strategy, where he encouraged Kohli to stay at the crease while he took calculated risks to accelerate the scoring. Rahul’s ability to adapt to different batting positions has been a hallmark of his career, and this match was no exception.

    Reactions of fans

    The emotional response from fans was palpable as Rahul hit the winning six off Glenn Maxwell in the 49th over.

    Also READ: WATCH – KL Rahul’s match-winning six against Australia sends India to Champions Trophy 2025 final

    Also READ: Twitter reactions – Virat Kohli shines as India edge out Australia in a nervy chase to qualify for the Champions Trophy 2025 final



    Source link

  • Twitter reactions: Virat Kohli shines as India edge out Australia in a nervy chase to qualify for the Champions Trophy 2025 final

    Twitter reactions: Virat Kohli shines as India edge out Australia in a nervy chase to qualify for the Champions Trophy 2025 final

    India booked their spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final with a thrilling four-wicket win over Australia in the first semifinal at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Chasing a target of 265, Virat Kohli‘s classy 84-run knock and crucial contributions from KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya powered India home with 11 balls to spare.

    Australia’s gritty batting effort

    After electing to bat first, Australia posted 264 in 49.3 overs, riding on a determined 73 from Steve Smith and a quickfire 61 by Alex Carey. Travis Head (39 off 33) and Marnus Labuschagne (29 off 36) chipped in, but India’s disciplined bowling attack prevented the Aussies from accelerating.

    Mohammed Shami (3/48) led the attack brilliantly, while Ravindra Jadeja (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/49) provided crucial breakthroughs. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Australia managed to push past 260, setting a competitive total.

    India’s chase: Virat Kohli’s brilliance seals the win

    India got off to a steady but cautious start as Rohit Sharma (28) and Shubman Gill (8) looked to settle in. However, quick strikes from Ben Dwarshuis and Cooper Connolly put Australia on top early.

    With India at 82/2, Kohli took control of the chase, crafting a well-paced 84 off 98 balls. His partnership with Shreyas Iyer (45 off 62) stabilized the innings before Rahul (42 off 34) and Pandya (28 off 24) provided the finishing touch. Despite some late jitters, India reached 267/6 in 48.1 overs, securing a place in the final.

    Kohli’s match-winning 84-run knock anchored India’s chase and earned him the Player of the Match award. His composure under pressure once again proved decisive in a knockout clash. With this four-wicket victory, India marches into the final, awaiting the winner of the second semifinal.

    Also WATCH: Cooper Connolly’s pumped-up celebration after removing Rohit Sharma in Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal

    Here is how fans reacted:

    Also WATCH: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma left fuming at Kuldeep Yadav during IND vs AUS Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal



    Source link

  • Watch: KL Rahul’s outrageous catch wasted as Jasprit Bumrah oversteps at MCG, Nathan Lyon survives

    Watch: KL Rahul’s outrageous catch wasted as Jasprit Bumrah oversteps at MCG, Nathan Lyon survives

    It seems that it was not India’s day despite starting strong on Day 4 of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne.

    After Yashasvi Jaiswal’s couple of drops, Jasprit Bumrah left India, and fans disappointed. On the second ball of the 82nd over, a dramatic moment unfolded when Jasprit Bumrah bowled a delivery to Nathan Lyon that seemed to have the Australian spinner caught at third slip in the final session of the ongoing fourth Test at the MCG.

    Jasprit Bumrah’s No-Ball spoils India’s moment of glory as Nathan Lyon survives despite KL Rahul’s stunnings efforts

    The ball was pitched on a good length in the channel, and Lyon stuck on the crease, tried to defend it. The ball straightened, took the outside edge, and flew straight to KL Rahul at third slip. Rahul’s reflexes were sharp as he tried to clutch the ball with his legs after it slipped from his hands, and India had almost bowled out Australia on Day 4 at the MCG.

    Read Also: Michael Hussey, Alyssa Healy blast Rohit Sharma for abusing Yashasvi Jaiswal over dropped catches at MCG

    However, the excitement was short-lived, as the umpire called it a no-ball. Actually, Jasprit Bumrah had overstepped, and Nathan Lyon was still at the crease, resulting in KL Rahul’s mind-blowing efforts going in vain. It was a crushing blow for India, as Australia finished Day 4 at 228/8 at the stumps.

    Meanwhile, Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland have already stitched an unbeaten 55 runs off 110 balls in a partnership for the 10th wicket as Australia took strong command in the ongoing MCG Test against India in Melbourne. While Lyon made 41*, Boland will resume Day 5 at 10* against India.

    Australia vs India MCG Test Day 4 Highlights

    Well, Day 4 started with India adding just 10 more runs to their overnight total before being bowled out for 369 in the ongoing Boxing Day Test against Australia. Then, the tourists started strongly with the ball, but the Australian side managed to recover from a scary 91/6, going past 200, while India remained in the contest despite conceding a 105-run lead at the MCG.

    Jasprit Bumrah got his revenge early, dismissing Sam Konstas with a brilliant delivery. Then, Mohammed Siraj then stepped up, claiming two key wickets of Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith. Bumrah returned to destroy Australia’s middle order, taking 3 wickets in 4 balls, leaving India feeling they had the upper hand.

    Read Also: Watch: Rishabh Pant begs Rohit Sharma for DRS at MCG, but captain laughs it off

    But things took a turn as Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped two key catches, allowing Marnus Labuschagne and Pat Cummins to build a vital 57-run partnership. However, Mohammed Siraj struck again, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne for 70, but Australia’s lower order fought hard.

    India fails to control Australia’s tailenders in Boxing Day Test

    Even after Mitchell Starc fell, the hosts looked in control with the lead at 261, but the last two batters, Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland, added 55 runs, pushing Australia’s lead to 333. India tried everything to break the partnership but couldn’t get through.

    Bumrah thought he had Lyon caught at slip in the final over of Day 4, but a no-ball spoiled the moment for Team India. Now, it will be interesting to see whether Australia continues batting on Day 5 or they set India a target of 334 in 96 overs, so the final day will be a thrilling part of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.



    Source link

  • WATCH: Mohammed Siraj’s bail-switching ritual brings good fortune for Jasprit Bumrah on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

    WATCH: Mohammed Siraj’s bail-switching ritual brings good fortune for Jasprit Bumrah on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

    Cricket has always been a sport rich in tradition and superstition, and Day 1 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was no exception. An intriguing moment unfolded when Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj flipped the bails off the stumps while Australian batter Marnus Labuschagne was on strike, a ritual believed by some in the cricketing world to bring good luck and wickets for bowlers.

    Mohammed Siraj’s superstition: Bail-switching at play

    In the 43rd over of the Australian innings, Siraj approached the stumps and deliberately switched the bails, an act that caught the attention of onlookers. Labuschagne, unfazed, simply walked away. This was not the first time such an incident had occurred between the two players. A similar moment at the Gabba saw Labuschagne reversing the change and subsequently losing his wicket shortly after. Siraj even playfully informed Labuschagne about his actions, adding an air of levity to the tense match. However, on this occasion, Siraj’s ritual did not immediately bear fruit.

    While Siraj’s superstition didn’t work for him, it appeared to pave the way for teammate Jasprit Bumrah. In the 45th over, Bumrah dismissed Usman Khawaja in a dramatic turn of events. Khawaja, who was well-set on 57 runs off 121 balls, attempted a pull shot against a short-of-length delivery but mistimed it. The ball found its way to KL Rahul at short mid-wicket, leaving Khawaja walking back with a rueful smile. This breakthrough was crucial for India as Bumrah continued to demonstrate his prowess as a match-winner.

    Here is the video:

    Also READ: WATCH: Steve Smith gets hit in the groin area by Akash Deep; Australian star reacts comically

    Labuschagne, who had looked solid at the crease with a composed 72 off 145 balls, eventually fell in the 66th over. Washington Sundar, introduced into the attack, enticed the batter into an expansive shot. Labuschagne, failing to get to the pitch of the ball, mistimed his shot and was caught by Indian skipper Virat Kohli at mid-off. This dismissal, coming right after the drinks break, was a significant moment for the Indian side as they sought to regain control.

    Australia ends Day 1 strong but not unscathed

    At stumps, Australia had posted a formidable 311 runs for the loss of six wickets. Steven Smith remained unbeaten on 68, showcasing his class with five boundaries and a six. Bumrah emerged as the standout performer for India, claiming three wickets and providing critical breakthroughs. While the day belonged largely to Australia, India’s disciplined bowling ensured the game remained finely poised. As both teams prepare for Day 2, the focus will be on whether India’s bowlers can capitalize on the momentum or if Australia’s lower order will stretch their advantage.

    Also WATCH: Ricky Ponting’s double standards criticizing Virat Kohli while ignoring his own past in the 4th Test | AUS vs IND



    Source link

  • Nitish Kumar Reddy to be dropped as India plan huge changes to combination for MCG Test

    Nitish Kumar Reddy to be dropped as India plan huge changes to combination for MCG Test

    The Indian cricket team is all set to make some surprising changes to their playing XI for the must-win Boxing Day Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia, starting on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne.

    Indian captain Rohit Sharma is all set to return as the opener in the fourth Test against Australia. A Times of India journalist claimed that Rohit Sharma will open the innings alongside young talent Yashasvi Jaiswal in the Boxing Day Test against the Australian side at the MCG.

    Also Read: Rohit Sharma removes KL Rahul as opener, finalizes India’s new opening pair for MCG Test

    India set to play two spinners in the Boxing Day Test; Nitish Kumar Reddy set to be dropped

    With this change, KL Rahul is expected to shift to the No. 3 position in the batting order for the crucial Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne. In a crucial decision for the must-win fourth Test, India is also considering playing two spinners.

    Ravindra Jadeja is a sure pick for the MCG showdown, but Nitish Kumar Reddy will have to make way for Washington Sundar in the playing XI. Nitish Kumar Reddy will be dropped for the much-awaited clash as India is favoring Washington Sundar to keep their hopes alive in the ongoing Test series.

    To be continued…



    Source link