Delhi Capitals Prioritize Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav for IPL 2025 Retention

Delhi Capitals Prioritize Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav for IPL 2025 Retention

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction approaches, franchises are finalizing their retention strategies. According to reports, the Delhi Capitals have identified their priority players, with skipper Rishabh Pant topping the list.

Pant, a key member of the Indian team across all formats, was rumored to be considering a move to Punjab Kings, where former Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting is now in charge. However, a report in Cricbuzz suggests that Pant will remain with DC and be their top retention pick.

The wicket-keeper batter currently earns INR 16 crore per season, but this figure is expected to increase with the BCCI’s new retention guidelines. In addition to Pant, Delhi is likely to retain Team India stars Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav.

Overseas players Jake Fraser-McGurk and Tristan Stubbs are also reportedly set to be retained by the franchise. If the BCCI allows franchises to retain an uncapped player, DC is expected to keep wicketkeeper-batsman Abhishek Porel.

Kohli-Tendulkar Similarity: Manjrekar Draws Parallels in Batting Comfort

Kohli-Tendulkar Similarity: Manjrekar Draws Parallels in Batting Comfort

Former Indian cricketer and renowned commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has drawn an intriguing parallel between batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. Manjrekar observed that Kohli, like Tendulkar, appears to perform better away from home.

Kohli’s recent return to Test cricket against Bangladesh was underwhelming, with scores of 6 and 17. Manjrekar attributed this to Kohli’s discomfort batting in India. “He’s not enjoying batting in India as much. Like (Sachin) Tendulkar, I think he feels more at home away from home,” Manjrekar said on the ESPNCricinfo YouTube channel.

Manjrekar pointed to Kohli’s impressive performance in South Africa, where he was India’s standout batter. “We saw in South Africa how well he played. He was by far India’s best batter,” Manjrekar added.

In the second innings of the Bangladesh Test, Kohli was controversially given out LBW despite replays showing the ball had hit his bat. However, Kohli declined to review the decision, a move that Manjrekar found puzzling. “Felt bad for Virat today. He obviously didn’t think he had hit it. Just wanted to know from Gill if the ball was hitting stumps. Despite Gill encouraging him to go for the review anyway, he walked away dejected wanting to keep the 3 reviews for his team,” Manjrekar tweeted.

Kohli’s absence from Test cricket since January 2024 may have contributed to his struggles. He missed the home series against England due to the birth of his second child. Despite his low scores, Kohli reached a significant milestone, becoming the second Indian to score 12,000 runs on home soil, behind only Tendulkar.

Manjrekar’s comparison between Kohli and Tendulkar highlights the unique challenges faced by elite batters. While Tendulkar was known for his exceptional performances overseas, Kohli has also shown a remarkable ability to adapt to different conditions. However, Manjrekar’s observation that Kohli may be more comfortable batting away from home raises questions about his mindset and the pressure he faces when playing in India.

Rishabh Pant's Defensive Technique Impresses Sanjay Manjrekar

Rishabh Pant’s Defensive Technique Impresses Sanjay Manjrekar

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has praised wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for his century in the first Test against Bangladesh, highlighting his defensive technique that resembles that of legendary former skipper MS Dhoni.

Pant’s century, along with Shubman Gill’s, helped India set a massive 515-run target for Bangladesh. Manjrekar noted that Pant’s innings showcased his willingness to play defensively, a trait often overlooked due to his aggressive batting style.

“It is a misleading package we see with Rishabh Pant,” Manjrekar said. “Underneath that, you will see as many dot balls in his innings as Shubman Gill’s, so he is willing to also play the defensive game that we have seen many times in the past.”

Manjrekar compared Pant’s defensive technique to Dhoni’s, who was known for his solid defense despite his reputation as a big-hitter. “He has got a pretty good defensive technique, bit like Dhoni, whose defensive technique was quite good,” Manjrekar said.

Manjrekar also noted Pant’s ability to adapt his batting to the situation, similar to former opener Virender Sehwag. “He is that kind of player who has his own way of getting runs and has his own agenda – a bit like Virender Sehwag,” Manjrekar said.

In the match, India posted a total of 515 runs, with Ashwin and Jadeja contributing significant innings. Bangladesh was bowled out for 149 in their first innings, trailing by 227 runs. In their second innings, India declared at 287/4, setting Bangladesh a target of 515.

At the end of day three, Bangladesh was 158/4, with Najmul Hossain Shanto leading the resistance.

Rishabh Pant's Fairytale Comeback: Six Test Centuries in Just 34 Games

Rishabh Pant’s Fairytale Comeback: Six Test Centuries in Just 34 Games

Rishabh Pant’s remarkable comeback in Test cricket has been a testament to his resilience and determination. After a life-threatening car accident in 2022, many doubted whether he would ever return to the highest level of the sport. However, Pant has defied all odds, returning to the Indian team with a vengeance.

In just 34 Tests, Pant has matched MS Dhoni’s feat of scoring six centuries, a remarkable achievement considering Dhoni played over 90 Tests. Pant’s return to form has been particularly impressive given the challenges he faced after his accident.

His comeback story began with a determined performance in the last IPL, where he played as a No. 3 batter on some of the most difficult pitches in the T20 World Cup. Despite concerns about his body’s ability to withstand the rigors of five-day cricket, Pant has proven his fitness and skill in the ongoing Test against Bangladesh.

His comfort against the Bangladesh bowlers has shown that he has overcome any mental hurdles that may have lingered after his accident. Shubman Gill, who shared a 167-run partnership with Pant, praised his teammate’s resilience.

“I’ve seen him work so hard for it when he was coming back from the injury and I think he also must be feeling really good,” Gill said.

Pant’s hard work and dedication have been evident in his training sessions. In New York, he faced short-pitched deliveries on a pitch with variable bounce, testing his pain threshold and preparing himself for the challenges of Test cricket.

Former coach Rahul Dravid and current boss Gautam Gambhir have both praised Pant’s abilities as a batter and wicketkeeper. Gambhir highlighted Pant’s consistent performances in red-ball cricket and his ability to impact the game.

“He’s got runs everywhere around the world, and not many wicket-keepers of that age have done it so consistently in red-ball cricket,” Gambhir said.

Pant’s glovework has also been impressive in this Test, showcasing his all-around skills. Gambhir believes that Pant’s batting often overshadows his keeping abilities, but he has been remarkable behind the stumps on Indian pitches.

As Pant continues his comeback, the best is yet to come. His resilience and determination have inspired many, and he is poised to become one of the greatest wicketkeeper-batters in the history of the game.

CSK's Retention Shortlist: Dhoni's Future Hangs in the Balance

CSK’s Retention Shortlist: Dhoni’s Future Hangs in the Balance

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is gearing up for its mega auction, and franchises are eagerly awaiting the BCCI’s announcement on retention guidelines. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in particular, is keen to know the rules as they could determine the future of legendary captain MS Dhoni.

According to reports, CSK has shortlisted five players for retention: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana, and MS Dhoni. Notably absent from the list are Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, and Maheesh Theekshana.

CSK’s decision to let go of some of its top players is a bold move, especially considering Dhoni’s potential retirement after the 2025 season. The franchise is reportedly hoping that the BCCI will reinstate the old rule that allowed teams to retain a retired player in the uncapped category.

This rule, which was in place from 2008 to 2021, would allow Dhoni to be retained in the lowest-paying category. CSK has previously requested the BCCI to bring back this rule, but a decision is yet to be made.

Dhoni’s future in the IPL hinges on the BCCI’s retention policy. If the old rule is reinstated, he could continue playing for CSK beyond the 2025 season. However, if the rule is not brought back, Dhoni’s retirement could be imminent.

The BCCI is expected to announce the retention guidelines soon, and CSK will be closely monitoring the decision. The franchise’s future and Dhoni’s legacy in the IPL could depend on the outcome.

Panthers Triumph Over Stallions by 20 Runs in Champions Cup Thriller

Panthers Triumph Over Stallions by 20 Runs in Champions Cup Thriller

In a thrilling encounter at the Champions Cup, Panthers emerged victorious over Stallions by a margin of 20 runs, continuing the trend of teams batting first and securing wins.

Panthers, after winning the toss, opted to bat first and amassed a formidable total of 344 for 7. Saim Ayub was the star performer, smashing a magnificent 156 off 130 deliveries, including 13 boundaries and seven towering sixes. Azan Awais provided valuable support, contributing 63 runs in a 138-run opening partnership with Ayub.

Usman Khan joined Ayub at the crease and the duo unleashed a flurry of boundaries, adding 116 runs in just 79 balls. Usman departed for 75 off 47 deliveries, but Ayub continued his onslaught, guiding Panthers past the 300-run mark in the 44th over. However, Panthers lost wickets in quick succession towards the end, managing only 30 runs in the final five overs.

Stallions’ chase got off to a shaky start as they lost three key wickets within the first seven overs. Mohammad Haris, Shan Masood, and Babar Azam all departed cheaply, leaving Stallions in a precarious position.

Hussain Talat and Tayyab Tahir steadied the innings with a 157-run partnership for the fourth wicket, keeping Stallions in the contest. However, the required run rate continued to climb, and when Mubasir Khan dismissed Talat for 63 in the 35th over, the asking rate had reached nearly ten runs per over.

Tahir reached his century in the 39th over but was dismissed shortly after. With 73 runs needed in the final four overs and only two wickets remaining, Zaman Khan threatened to pull off a remarkable victory. He smashed 42 runs off just 16 deliveries, but Stallions ultimately fell short by 20 runs.

Australia Crush England by 68 Runs, Extend ODI Dominance

Australia Crush England by 68 Runs, Extend ODI Dominance

Australia’s dominance in the ongoing ODI series against England continued as they secured a comprehensive 68-run victory in the second match at Headingley. The world champions, despite facing a precarious situation at 221-9, were propelled to a competitive total of 270 all out thanks to a valiant 74 from wicketkeeper Alex Carey.

Carey’s blistering knock, which included eight boundaries and three towering sixes, formed a crucial 49-run partnership with Josh Hazlewood for the last wicket. This proved to be the difference as England’s inexperienced batting lineup crumbled under pressure, dismissed for a mere 202 with nearly 10 overs remaining.

The Australian bowling attack, led by Mitchell Starc and Hazlewood, played a pivotal role in England’s downfall. Starc, returning from illness, struck early, removing Will Jacks for a golden duck and trapping England captain Harry Brook lbw for just four. Hazlewood also made an impact, dismissing opener Phil Salt and Jamie Smith, who top-scored for England with 49.

Paceman Aaron Hardie further dented England’s hopes, claiming two wickets in two balls to leave the hosts reeling at 65-5. Ben Duckett and Liam Livingstone both fell victim to Hardie’s variations, while Carey’s diving catch sent Livingstone back to the pavilion for another golden duck.

Earlier, Australia’s top order struggled to make significant contributions, with Mitchell Marsh (60) being the only batsman to surpass 29. However, Carey’s heroics ensured that Australia posted a challenging target.

The series now moves to Chester-le-Street for the third ODI on Tuesday, with Australia aiming to extend their winning streak and England desperate to salvage some pride.

Hardik Pandya's Test Return Prospects Downplayed by Ravi Shastri

Hardik Pandya’s Test Return Prospects Downplayed by Ravi Shastri

Hardik Pandya’s Test return prospects have been downplayed by former India coach Ravi Shastri, despite the all-rounder’s recent social media post showcasing his bowling practice. Pandya was removed as Team India’s vice-captain in white-ball cricket after Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as head coach, and his Test comeback has been a subject of speculation.

Shastri, who coached Pandya during his tenure with the Indian team, believes that Pandya’s return to the Test setup depends on his physical and mental readiness. “If he feels he is strong enough to take the load, then why not? Don’t want it to be a case where he comes in too early, plays and gets injured and then you miss him for the white-ball as well,” Shastri said during commentary of the India-Bangladesh first Test.

Shastri emphasized that Pandya’s mindset and approach to the situation will be crucial. “Depends on how his mindset is. That would be ideal from India’s point of view. I think he is someone who knows his body better than anyone,” Shastri added.

However, Shastri also suggested that Pandya may need to prioritize certain formats if he is not confident about his fitness and workload. “Got to see where he is most suited, in which format of the game. And stick to that,” he said.

Pandya played a pivotal role in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph as vice-captain, contributing with both bat and ball. However, he was replaced by Shubman Gill as India’s vice-captain in T20Is and ODIs after Gambhir’s appointment.

Pandya’s Test chances appear slim, as he did not participate in the Duleep Trophy 2024. The all-rounder’s last Test appearance was in 2018, and his return to the Test setup remains uncertain.

Sunrisers Crowned Regional Champions in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Finale

Sunrisers Crowned Regional Champions in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Finale

Sunrisers, once the perennial underdogs of the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, have emerged as the final regional champions of the tournament. Their remarkable turnaround culminated in a 27-run DLS victory over South East Stars, a testament to their newfound resilience and determination.

Kate Coppack, a formidable new-ball bowler, played a pivotal role in dismantling the Stars’ top order. Her career-best figures of 4 for 27 left the Stars reeling at 53 for 4. Alice Davidson-Richards, however, provided a glimmer of hope with a valiant 93, forming crucial partnerships with Aylish Cranstone and Phoebe Franklin.

Despite Davidson-Richards’ heroics, the Stars were eventually bowled out for 212. Cordelia Griffith, in scintillating form, then led the Sunrisers’ chase with a blistering half-century. Her 54-ball 57, adorned with elegant cover drives and powerful pulls, propelled the Sunrisers to a comfortable position.

As the rain intensified, the match was halted with the Sunrisers well ahead of the DLS par score. Their victory marked a historic moment, as they became the last team to lift the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy in its regional format.

Sunrisers’ triumph is a testament to their unwavering spirit and the exceptional performances of their players. Coppack’s accuracy and Griffith’s explosive batting proved to be the difference-makers in their remarkable journey from wooden spoon winners to regional champions.

Ashwin Surpasses Kumble as India's Leading Wicket-Taker in Fourth Innings of Tests

Ashwin Surpasses Kumble as India’s Leading Wicket-Taker in Fourth Innings of Tests

Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin has etched his name in the annals of Test cricket history by surpassing legendary Anil Kumble to become the highest wicket-taker for India in the fourth innings of a Test match. Ashwin achieved this remarkable feat during the first Test against Bangladesh at Chennai on Saturday.

After going wicketless in the first innings, Ashwin turned the tide in the final innings while defending a mammoth total of 515 runs. By the end of day three, he had claimed three wickets for 63 runs in 15 overs, with an economy rate of 4.20.

With this performance, Ashwin has now taken 96 wickets in the fourth innings of a Test in just 35 innings, at an astonishing average of 19.4 and a strike rate of over 45. His best bowling figures in the fourth innings stand at an impressive 7/59. He has also registered six five-wicket hauls in the fourth innings of a Test match.

Ashwin’s remarkable achievement has not only placed him above Kumble, who had 94 fourth innings wickets, but also tied him with West Indies legend Courtney Walsh as the eighth-highest wicket-taker in Tests. In 101 Tests, Ashwin has amassed 519 wickets at an average of 23.78, with best figures of 7/59 and a total of 36 five-wicket hauls. Walsh, on the other hand, took 519 wickets in 132 Tests between 1984-2001.

In the ongoing Test match, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to field first. India’s top-order collapsed, leaving them at a precarious 34/3. However, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (56) and Rishabh Pant (39) stitched a crucial 62-run partnership for the fourth wicket, bringing India back into the game.

After India was reduced to 144/6, Ashwin (113) and Ravindra Jadeja (86*) forged a magnificent 199-run partnership, helping India reach a respectable 376 in 91.2 overs. Hasan Mahmud (5/83) was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, while Taskin Ahmed also chipped in with three wickets.

In their first innings, Bangladesh struggled to keep up with India’s pace attack. Shakib Al Hasan (32), Litton Das (22), and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (27*) offered some resistance, but Jasprit Bumrah (4/50) and Akash Deep (2/19) proved too strong, dismissing Bangladesh for 149 runs and leaving them trailing by 227 runs.

In their second innings, India once again lost their top-order quickly, but centuries from Shubman Gill (119*) and Rishabh Pant (109) helped them reach 287/4 before declaring their innings. Bangladesh was set a daunting target of 515 to win.

Bangladesh started their run-chase positively, with openers Zakir Hasan (33) and Shadman Islam (35) putting up a 62-run opening stand. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto (51*) held the innings together as Ashwin (3/63) and Bumrah (1/18) picked up wickets. At the end of day three, Bangladesh was 158/4, with Shanto and Shakib Al Hasan (5*) unbeaten.

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