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Tag: Shreyas Iyer

  • 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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  • WATCH: Shreyas Iyer shows his dance moves after India’s Champions Trophy 2025 title win in Dubai

    WATCH: Shreyas Iyer shows his dance moves after India’s Champions Trophy 2025 title win in Dubai

    India‘s victory in the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand was a night of cricketing brilliance and unbridled celebration, with Shreyas Iyer stealing the spotlight both on and off the field. After guiding India to a thrilling four-wicket win at the Dubai International Stadium, Iyer capped off the triumph with an electrifying dance performance in front of the Champions board, a moment that has already become iconic in Indian cricket lore.

    A hard-fought victory for Team India

    The final was a rollercoaster affair. New Zealand posted a challenging 251/8 in their 50 overs, driven by a resilient batting effort on a pitch that offered something for both bowlers and batters. India’s chase began exceptionally well, captain Rohit Sharma and his opening partner Shubman Gill forming a brilliant 100-run partnership. The duo added 105 for the first wicket before the Black Caps bounced back and earned some wickets in quick successions, including of Rohit, who was dismissed for well-made 76 runs.

    Meanwhile, Iyer, who entered the crease after Virat Kohli‘s wicket in the 20th over of India’s chase, played a resilient knock. His composed yet aggressive 48 off 52 balls steadied the ship and set the stage for the lower order to finish the job. Contributions from the Axar Patel, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya ensured India crossed the line with 1 over to spare, sparking wild celebrations among players and fans alike.

    This victory marked India’s third Champions Trophy title, adding to their illustrious wins in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and 2013. Under the leadership of captain Rohit, India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, cementing their dominance in the 50-over format.

    Also WATCH: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma play ‘Dandiya’ with stumps after India seals the Champions Trophy 2025 title

    Shreyas Iyer’s dance moves stole the show

    But it was what happened after the match that truly set social media ablaze. As the team gathered around the Champions Trophy for photographs, Iyer broke into an impromptu dance routine. With the gleaming trophy in the backdrop, Iyer’s moves—rhythmic, confident, and packed with swagger—drew instant comparisons to Kohli’s unforgettable “Gangnam Style” jig after India’s 2013 Champions Trophy win against England.

    Here is the video:

    Iyer’s stellar tournament run

    Iyer’s contribution wasn’t limited to the final. The 30-year-old Mumbai batter emerged as the tournament’s second-highest run-scorer, amassing 243 runs across five matches at an average of 48.60. His tally included two crucial half-centuries, showcasing his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed. His standout performances earned him praise from fans and pundits, with many hailing him as the backbone of India’s batting lineup in the competition.

    Also WATCH: Viral video: Hardik Pandya hugs ‘bhabhi’ Anushka Sharma and Ritika Sajdeh post India’s history Champions Trophy win



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  • 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



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  • Champions Trophy 2025: Fans erupt as India seals a semifinal clash with Australia after Varun Chakravarthy destroys New Zealand

    Champions Trophy 2025: Fans erupt as India seals a semifinal clash with Australia after Varun Chakravarthy destroys New Zealand

    India produced a dominant performance to defeat New Zealand by 44 runs in their final Group A  Champions Trophy 2025 match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, securing their place at the top of the group. Varun Chakravarthy was the star of the show, claiming a sensational five-wicket haul (5/42) as India successfully defended a target of 250 runs. Earlier, Shreyas Iyer’s composed 79 and Hardik Pandya’s late surge (45 off 45) helped India post a competitive 249/9. Despite Kane Williamson’s fighting knock of 81, New Zealand faltered against India’s well-rounded bowling attack.

    Shreyas Iyer steadies India after top-order collapse

    After being put in to bat, India suffered an early setback, losing Shubman Gill (2), Rohit Sharma (15) and Virat Kohli (11) inside the powerplay as Matt Henry’s fiery spell (5/42) left them reeling at 30/3 in the seventh over. However, Iyer and Axar Patel (42 off 61 balls) rebuilt the innings with a crucial 98-run partnership, navigating New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack. Iyer mixed caution with aggression, reaching his half-century in 75 balls before accelerating. However, he missed out on a century after falling to Will O’Rourke (1/47). Hardik then played a counter-attacking knock, hitting four fours and two sixes to push India past 240 before they ended at 249/9 in 50 overs.

    Varun Chakravarthy’s five-wicket magic dismantles New Zealand

    New Zealand’s chase started cautiously, but Chakravarthy changed the game with a brilliant spell of 5/42, his first five-wicket haul in ODIs. Will Young (22) and Rachin Ravindra (6) fell early, before Williamson and Daryl Mitchell (17) steadied the innings. However, Kuldeep Yadav (1/40) and Ravindra Jadeja (1/36) applied pressure, leading to a collapse in the middle overs. Williamson fought hard but was stumped by KL Rahul off Axar Patel in the 41st over, leaving New Zealand at 169/7. The tailenders failed to counter Chakravarthy’s sharp spin, and New Zealand was eventually restricted to 184/7 in 43 overs, falling short by 65 runs.

    Also WATCH: Axar Patel dents New Zealand’s chase by removing Kane Williamson in the Champions Trophy 2025

    India sets up Champions Trophy 2025  semifinal clash against Australia

    With this victory, India finished as Group A toppers and will now face arch-rivals in recent times, Australia in the semifinal on March 4 in Dubai, setting up a blockbuster rematch of the 2023 ODI World Cup final. Meanwhile, New Zealand will take on Group B toppers South Africa in the second semifinal in Lahore on March 5. India’s dominant bowling performance, led by Chakravarthy, showcased their strength in defending totals, a key aspect heading into the knockout stage. The team will take confidence from their balanced squad, with both batters and bowlers stepping up at crucial moments. With Australia posing a significant challenge, India will need another all-round effort to book their place in the final and keep their dream of lifting the Champions Trophy alive.

    Here’s how fans reacted:

    Also WATCH: Kane Williamson’s stunning one-handed catch stuns India in the Champions Trophy 2025



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  • Shreyas Iyer shares the special drills Virat Kohli undertook to excel against Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025

    Shreyas Iyer shares the special drills Virat Kohli undertook to excel against Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025

    India’s triumphant run in the Champions Trophy 2025 continued as the team managed to outperform arch-rivals Pakistan in the group-stage encounter between the two nations. The star-performer for the Indian team was ace middle order batter Virat Kohli whose emphatic century paved the way for a comfortable win and helped the team march into the semi-finals of the tournament.

    However, the sheer class from the former Indian skipper is not just a product of his skillset and talent, but also the hard-work he puts in the nets. This is evident by the recent statement from Shreyas Iyer– who has observed Kohli on a daily basis and is an ardent believer of thwarting commitment on the field himself.

    Shreyas Iyer lauds Virat Kohli’s hunger to score runs for the team

    Iyer, who has spent time with Kohli both on and off the field, appreciated the former Indian skipper for his ability to put hard-work on the field. Kohli’s dedication level has always been a highlight of his career. The 36-year-old managed to end his drought of centuries against Pakistan and delivered for the team at a crucial juncture of the match.

    “I remember yesterday he had come almost an hour before us for the practice session, he played a few balls…he looked as crisp as he looks all the time. It’s just the mindset that he possesses over the years. He’s always hungry for runs. So, I never feel that he’s struggling for runs, to be honest,” Iyer remarked during the post-match press conference.

    Crucially, Iyer and Kohli stood on the crease and developed a partnership of 114 runs for the 3rd wicket. Iyer supported Kohli from the other end and stood on the crease to score crucial 56 runs off 67 balls.

    Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Wasim Akram slams Abrar Ahmed for giving a send-off to Shubman Gill

    Pakistan out of Champions Trophy 2025

    Kohli’s emphatic unbeaten century led India to a win against arch-rivals Pakistan by 6 wickets. With this, Pakistan’s hopes of qualifying to the semi-finals of the tournament rested on the performances of other teams in the group. However, after New Zealand delivered a crushing defeat to Bangladesh, the defending champions are now out of the tournament. Their last group-stage match against Bangladesh now remains a formality for the team. The two semi-finalists from Group A of the competition are now fixed with India and New Zealand set to advance in the next stage of the tournament.

    Also Read: Hardik Pandya’s ₹7 Crore watch becomes the talk of the town during IND vs PAK in Champions Trophy 2025

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  • Twitter reactions: Virat Kohli’s masterful 51st ODI century powers India to a dominant win over Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025

    Twitter reactions: Virat Kohli’s masterful 51st ODI century powers India to a dominant win over Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025

    Virat Kohli once again displayed his unmatched class under pressure, steering India to a commanding victory over Pakistan in their highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. The modern-day batting maestro brought up his 51st ODI century in spectacular fashion, ensuring India successfully chased down Pakistan’s 241-run target with a composed and well-paced knock.

    With this comprehensive win, India solidified their position at the top of Group A, while Pakistan now finds themselves in a precarious situation. A second consecutive defeat means that their semifinal hopes are hanging by a thread. Rizwan and his men must now rely on Bangladesh to defeat New Zealand on Monday, before defeating Bangladesh themselves in their final group-stage match. Even then, Pakistan’s qualification hopes will rest on net run rate calculations, making this loss even more crushing.

    Virat Kohli’s Century:  A masterclass in chasing under pressure

    Batting with immense composure and determination, Kohli crafted a sensational unbeaten 100 off 111 deliveries, anchoring India’s chase to perfection. His innings was a perfect blend of flawless shot selection, impeccable timing, and tactical acceleration, ensuring Pakistan never had a chance to claw their way back into the contest.

    The most poetic moment of the match arrived on the very last ball, when Kohli reached his century with a stunning boundary, sealing India’s victory in dramatic style. His innings featured seven elegant boundaries, each a testament to his precise footwork and unwavering focus.

    Kohli was ably supported by Shreyas Iyer, who registered a crucial 50 off 63 balls. Iyer started cautiously, absorbing pressure early on, before shifting gears in the middle overs to keep India’s chase on track. The duo’s partnership was instrumental in guiding India to the finish line, ensuring there were no last-minute hiccups.

    Also WATCH: Abrar Ahmed traps Shubman Gill with a deceptive carrom ball; also gives a bold send-off | IND vs PAK

    Fastest to 14,000 ODI runs: Kohli creates yet another record

    During his sensational knock, Kohli achieved yet another historic milestone, becoming the fastest batter to score 14,000 ODI runs. He accomplished this feat in just 287 innings, shattering the previous record held by Sachin Tendulkar (350 innings).

    Kohli also surpassed Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara (378 innings), reaffirming his status as one of the most dominant run-scorers in the history of ODI cricket.

    The historic moment arrived when Kohli reached 15 runs during India’s chase, marking another chapter in his illustrious career. Interestingly, Kohli had reached 13,000 ODI runs against Pakistan as well, during the Asia Cup in Colombo in September 2023, making this milestone even more special.

    Pakistan’s batting struggles: Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya lead India’s bowling attack

    Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s batting faltered yet again, as they were bowled out for 241, despite being in a promising position at one stage. Saud Shakeel top-scored with a resilient 62 off 76 balls, while skipper Mohammad Rizwan labored to 46 off 77 deliveries. The duo stitched together a 104-run partnership for the third wicket, offering Pakistan some stability after early wickets.

    However, just when Pakistan looked set to accelerate, India’s bowlers struck back with precision and control. Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav (3/40) was the pick of the bowlers, dismantling Pakistan’s middle and lower order with his deceptive variations. All-rounder Hardik Pandya (2/31) delivered two crucial blows, dismissing both Babar Azam (23) and Shakeel, which shifted the momentum firmly in India’s favor.

    Despite Khushdil Shah’s fighting knock of 38 off 39 balls, Pakistan failed to gain any real momentum towards the death overs, ultimately setting a below-par total of 241, which India chased down comfortably. With two wins in two games, India has virtually sealed their place in the semifinals, while Pakistan now stares at an early exit, needing a miracle to stay alive in the tournament.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: Shaheen Afridi’s magical yorker sends Rohit Sharma packing in Champions Trophy 2025



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  • Twitter reactions: India takes a 1-0 series lead as Shubman Gill stars in four-wicket win over England in Nagpur ODI

    Twitter reactions: India takes a 1-0 series lead as Shubman Gill stars in four-wicket win over England in Nagpur ODI

    India clinched a resounding four-wicket victory over England in the first ODI at Nagpur, successfully chasing down a target of 249 with 68 balls to spare. The chase was anchored by Shubman Gill, who played a composed and match-defining innings of 87 runs off 96 balls, showing remarkable patience and skill. India’s bowlers had set up the victory by limiting England to a modest total. Ravindra Jadeja, the standout performer with the ball, claimed three wickets for just 26 run.  The win gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, as they look to extend their dominance in the coming games.

    England’s innings: Promising start derailed by Indian bowlers’ precision

    England’s innings began on a positive note, with Phil Salt providing early fireworks, smashing 43 runs off just 26 balls. Alongside him, Jacob Bethell looked steady, contributing a crucial 51 runs. However, England struggled to convert their early momentum into a substantial total as India’s bowlers tightened their grip. Jadeja was exceptional with the ball, creating pressure and taking key wickets, while Harshit Rana followed up with a clinical spell, claiming three wickets and leaving England’s lower order exposed. Despite a valiant 52 from Jos Buttler, who remained the backbone of England’s innings, the constant fall of wickets meant England’s total was restricted to 248 all out in 47.4 overs. India’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding meant that the England batters could never find their rhythm, leaving them well short of a competitive total.

    Also WATCH: Phil Salt powerfully thrashes debutant Harshit Rana in a 26-run over during the 1st ODI

    India’s chase: Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer steer India through with ease

    India’s chase began with a few early hiccups, as Yashasvi Jaiswal and captain Rohit Sharma fell cheaply to leave the hosts at 23/2. However, Gill rose to the occasion, providing the necessary stability at the crease. His 87-run knock was the foundation of India’s chase, as he combined elegant strokes with controlled aggression to keep the run rate in check. At the other end, Shreyas Iyer played a blistering cameo, scoring a rapid 59 off 36 balls, adding a much-needed acceleration to the chase. With the Indian middle order firing, including Axar Patel’s composed 52 not out, the chase was comfortably within reach. India completed the target in 38.4 overs, with Gill’s anchoring presence and Iyer’s quickfire knock ensuring there were no further setbacks. The Indian team’s calm and calculated approach saw them across the line with relative ease, securing a dominant position in the series.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: Adil Rashid delivers a dream ball to send Axar Patel packing in the 1st ODI



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  • IPL 2025: Shreyas Iyer announced as Punjab Kings captain by Salman Khan

    IPL 2025: Shreyas Iyer announced as Punjab Kings captain by Salman Khan

    On Sunday, January 12, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan officially announced that the star middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer will be leading the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025).

    The official announcement regarding Shreyas Iyer taking over the leadership of Punjab Kings was made on the Bigg Boss 18 Weekend Ka Vaar where a couple of more Punjab Kings players were present.

    Also Read: BCCI dissatisfied with Gautam Gambhir’s support staff, likely to take major action soon

    Shreyas Iyer lands at Bigg Boss 18 set along with Yuzvendra Chahal and Shashank Singh

    Shreyas Iyer, along with star leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and explosive batsman Shashank Singh, joined Salman Khan for Bigg Boss 18 Weekend Ka Vaar, which was aired on January 12.

    Bigg Boss is a popular Indian reality show franchise based on the Dutch reality show Big Brother. It is produced by Endemol Shine India, and currently, the eighteenth season of the show is going on, which is being hosted by Salman Khan for the fifteenth time.

    Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Shashank Singh were seen having fun with Salman Khan on stage, and they also danced together to Bollywood tunes before it was officially announced that Iyer would be the new captain of Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League.

    The trio of PBKS cricketers further entered the Bigg Boss house and a mini-cricket match was played between Team Shreyas and Team Yuzi. Iyer’s team consisted of Rajat Dalal and Vivian Dsena while Karan Veer Mehra joined Shashank Singh in Yuzvendra Chahal’s team.

    Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Shashank Singh – key players of the Punjab Kings

    Iyer, Chahal, and Shashank are the key players for PBKS, and the performance of the trio will determine how successful season the franchise will have in IPL 2025.

    Ahead of the mega auction, the franchise retained explosive batter Shashank Singh for Rs 5.5 crore along with the young wicketkeeper-batsman Prabhsimran Singh for Rs 4 crore.

    Over the years, PBKS have struggled to find a good captain and have been forced to make a lot of changes to the leadership group. This time around to fix this issue, they entered the auction with a clear mind to rope in a reputed captain and managed to buy Shreyas Iyer.

    Iyer, who was released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) after leading them to the title victory in IPL 2024, was bought by Punjab Kings for a whopping INR 26.75 crore as they broke their bank for him.

    PBKS also went all out for Yuzvendra Chahal at the auction and bought him for INR 18 crore, making him the most expensive spinner in the history of the league.

    Punjab Kings looking to win IPL under Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting

    The Punjab Kings have been one of the biggest underperformers in the history of the Indian Premier League. Since the inaugural edition of IPL, the Punjab-based franchise has experienced a mix of highs and lows, with their best performance coming in 2014 when they finished as the runners-up.

    They have been highly inconsistent over the years, and frequent chopping and changes have only made things worse for them. However, with Ricky Ponting at the helm as head coach and Iyer as captain, PBKS would be hoping for a major turnaround and ending their trophy drought in IPL 2025.

    Notably, they had entered the mega auction with the largest purse of Rs 110.5 crore and managed to make a balanced squad, roping in the likes of Arshdeep Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Glenn Maxwell, Nehal Wadhera and many others.



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  • Shreyas Iyer makes a bold remark on Prithvi Shaw’s struggles with form and fitness

    Shreyas Iyer makes a bold remark on Prithvi Shaw’s struggles with form and fitness

    Prithvi Shaw, once heralded as the future of Indian cricket, finds himself at a crossroads in his career. Touted as a child prodigy, Shaw’s early exploits, including leading India to victory in the U19 World Cup and a scintillating Test debut, showcased his immense potential.  However, his decline has been swift, leaving many to wonder if his career can be salvaged. While his talent remains undeniable, issues with fitness, off-field controversies, and inconsistent performances have significantly dented his reputation.

    Prithvi Shaw’s domestic woes and IPL 2025 auction snub

    Shaw’s domestic season in 2024 failed to inspire confidence, as he managed only 59 runs in four Ranji Trophy 2024-25 matches. His Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy performance was equally disappointing, with 197 runs across nine matches at an average of 21.88, failing to register a single half-century. Barring a 26-ball 49 in the quarterfinal, his contributions were largely forgettable, even as Mumbai clinched the title.

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction further underscored his declining stature in Indian cricket, as no franchise showed interest in acquiring him. For a player once seen as a future Indian captain, this downfall serves as a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the sport and the price of neglecting discipline and consistency.

    Shreyas Iyer’s blunt remark

    Mumbai captain Shreyas Iyer, a teammate of Shaw and the second-most expensive player in the IPL 2025 auction, weighed in on Shaw’s predicament with a mix of admiration and critique. Iyer described Shaw as “God-gifted,” emphasizing that his talent is unmatched, but talent without the right attitude and effort holds no value in the long term. According to Iyer, Shaw’s work ethic remains a major concern, and despite repeated advice from peers and coaches, he has struggled to adopt a professional mindset.

    “I think, personally, he is a God-gifted player. The amount of talent he possesses as an individual, no one has it. That’s true. It’s just that he needs to improve his work ethics,” Iyer was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

    Iyer highlighted that Shaw’s issues are not new and that the batter has managed to overcome challenges in the past. However, he firmly stated that it is Shaw’s responsibility to take charge of his career, as no amount of external guidance can replace self-motivation and discipline.

    “And I have said it before as well in many of the interviews. He needs to get his work ethics right. And if he does that, you know, sky is the limit for him. Can you force him to? I can’t force him. He has played so much of cricket. And everyone has given him inputs. At the end of the day, it’s his job to go out there and figure out things for himself,” the 30-year-old added.

    Also READ: Best playing XI of unsold players from the IPL 2025 mega auction ft. Prithvi Shaw

    Iyer’s hard-hitting reality check

    Iyer’s comments about Shaw struck a chord with cricketing circles, as he bluntly stated that professionals at the highest level need to take ownership of their careers. “We can’t babysit anyone,” Iyer remarked, pointing out that Shaw must independently figure out the solutions to his struggles. Iyer acknowledged Shaw’s past successes but stressed that continuous effort is key to sustaining success in modern cricket. He noted that Shaw has received ample advice and guidance from teammates and coaches but ultimately must step up and resolve his issues.

    “We can’t babysit anyone, right? Every professional who is playing at this level, they need to know what they should be doing. And he has also done it in the past. It’s not that he hasn’t. He has to focus. He has to sit back, put a thinking cap on and then figure out himself. He will get the answer. No one can force him to do anything,” Iyer concluded.

    Can Shaw revive his career?

    Shaw is now at a critical juncture where his career could either take a turn for the better or spiral further downward. Despite his struggles, Shaw still has age on his side and the potential to stage a comeback. To achieve this, he must undergo a complete transformation, focusing on fitness, refining his technique, and building mental resilience.

    Shaw must embrace the discipline required to compete at the highest level, seeking inspiration from players who have successfully revived their careers after setbacks. His next steps will determine whether he emerges as a story of redemption or remains a cautionary tale in Indian cricket.

    Also READ: Prithvi Shaw UNSOLD in IPL 2025 Auction: Is this the end of Mumbai batter?

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  • WATCH: Atharva Ankolekar pulls off a jaw dropping catch to dismiss Abhimanyu Singh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024

    WATCH: Atharva Ankolekar pulls off a jaw dropping catch to dismiss Abhimanyu Singh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024

    In the semifinal encounter of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Mumbai emerged victorious over Baroda by 6 wickets. The thrilling contest was highlighted by an incredible fielding display from Mumbai’s Atharva Ankolekar, who took a stunning catch to dismiss Baroda’s opener Abhimanyu Singh.

    Atharva Ankolekar’s outstanding catch

    The wicket came in the 3rd over of Baroda’s innings, when Mumbai’s bowler Mohit Avasthi delivered a shortish delivery to Abhimanyu, he attempted a pull shot across the line, only for the ball to skew high into the air. It looked as though it would fall safely beyond mid-wicket, but Ankolekar, stationed at mid-wicket, had other plans.

    The  24-year-old sprinted after the ball, and in a stunning display of athleticism, he timed his dive perfectly. He managed to get both hands under the ball, but it slipped slightly off his fingers. However, Ankolekar’s quick reflexes allowed him to recover, pouncing on the ball in a second attempt just inches above the ground. The crowd erupted as Mumbai took an early breakthrough, dismissing Abhimanyu Singh for 9 runs off 10 balls.

    Here is the video:

    Ankolekar wasn’t just a hero in the field; he also contributed with the ball. The left-arm off-spinner claimed a crucial wicket, dismissing Baroda’s Bhanu Pania. Ankolekar’s all-round performance proved to be a key factor in Mumbai’s dominance throughout the match.

    Also WATCH: Lukman Meriwala picks three wickets in a single over at Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024

    Baroda sets a modest target

    Asked to bat first, Baroda posted a total of 158/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite some resistance, their innings never really gained momentum. Shivalik Sharma was the standout performer for Baroda, scoring 36 not out off 24 balls, which included 2 fours and 2 sixes. However, Mumbai’s bowlers maintained tight control, with every bowler picking up at least one wicket.

    Suryansh Shedge was particularly impressive, taking 2 wickets in his 2-over spell. Mumbai’s disciplined bowling performance ensured that Baroda’s total was kept under control, leaving Mumbai with a chaseable target of 159.

    Mumbai’s chase led by Ajinkya Rahane’s explosive batting

    In reply, Mumbai wasted no time and chased down the target with ease, scoring 164/4 in just 17.2 overs. Mumbai’s batting was led by their opener, Ajinkya Rahane, who played a blistering knock of 98 runs off 56 balls. Rahane’s innings included 11 fours and 5 sixes, and he displayed an exceptional strike rate of 175.00, narrowly missed out on a well-deserved century.

    While Rahane’s fireworks stole the spotlight, Mumbai’s captain, Shreyas Iyer, played a vital supporting role, scoring 46 runs off 30 balls. Iyer’s composed innings ensured that Mumbai stayed on track, and their victory was secured with more than 2 overs to spare.

    Rahane was rightfully named the Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution with the bat. Mumbai’s all-around performance earned them a place in the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, becoming the first team to reach the tournament’s final.

    Also READ: Allu Arjun and Krunal Pandya: Fans compare Pushpa 2 characters to Indian cricketers



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