For IPL 2025, KL Rahul joins Delhi Capitals, adapting to a middle-order role after Harry Brook's exit. This shift from his usual opening spot adds depth and experience to DC's lineup. Axar Patel will captain the team, with Faf du Plessis as vice-captain. Rahul will miss the first few matches due to personal reasons, which may impact the team's initial gameplay.
Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket after a remarkable 14-year career. The announcement came following the third Test against Australia in Brisbane. With 537 Test wickets, Ashwin is India's second-highest wicket-taker. He remains involved in the IPL and club cricket, feeling his 'creativity' on the field has diminished. His legacy includes the 2011 ODI World Cup and numerous Player of the Series awards.
In a thrilling AFCON match, Equatorial Guinea edged past Sierra Leone 1-0, thanks to Emilio Nsue's first-half goal. Sierra Leone missed crucial chances, with Kei Kamara failing a late penalty and Daniel Turay receiving a red card. Equatorial Guinea's solid defense and strategic gameplay were evident with fewer fouls and more shots on target.
Carlos Alcaraz battled through tough windy conditions to beat Grigor Dimitrov and reach the Indian Wells semifinals, set to compete against Francisco Cerundolo. On the women's side, Madison Keys continued her winning streak against Belinda Bencic, leading to a showdown with Aryna Sabalenka. Iga Swiatek maintained her title chase, winning against Qinwen Zheng, while Sabalenka secured a semifinal spot with a win over Samsonova.
Mahmudullah Riyad, a notable figure in cricket and a key player in Bangladesh's golden generation, announced his retirement from international cricket on March 12, 2025, marking the end of a 17-year career. He expressed gratitude to supporters, especially his son Raeid, and highlighted his unique achievements, leaving a lasting impact on the sport in Bangladesh.
India's pink-ball Test journey has been a mix of highs and lows, with significant wins overshadowed by the infamous Adelaide 2020 collapse. While Australia boasts an impressive pink-ball record, India's noteworthy performers like Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin continue to shine. The recent Adelaide Test saw Australia's bowlers excel, as India struggled, setting the stage for an exciting continuation in Brisbane.
The iconic National Stadium in Karachi is gearing up for the Champions Trophy 2025 clash between Afghanistan and South Africa. Known for its batter-friendly surface, the pitch tends to assist spinners as the game progresses, thanks to its slowing nature. Historical stats show a balance between teams batting first and chasing, with noteworthy performances etched in its record books.
South Africa dominated their ICC Champions Trophy opener, securing a 107-run victory over Afghanistan. Key performances included Ryan Rickelton's century and strong contributions from Bavuma, Van der Dussen, and Markram. Afghanistan struggled in their chase, with Rabada and Ngidi leading the South African bowling attack. The win positions South Africa advantageously in the tournament.
In a powerful start to their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, South Africa clinched a 107-run victory over Afghanistan, marking Afghanistan's first appearance in the tournament. South Africa's Ryan Rickelton scored his first ODI century as the team posted 315/6. Afghanistan struggled in their chase, falling short despite Rahmat Shah's 90.
In an electrifying WPL 2025 opener, Mumbai Indians defeated RCB by 4 wickets at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium. Ellyse Perry's 81 for RCB and Amanjot Kaur's all-round show for Mumbai were highlights. RCB faltered in the middle order, while Mumbai finished strong with Amanjot's six sealing victory in the final over. A thrilling contest that kept fans on edge.