In an exciting encounter at Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) clinched a dominant 8-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals (DC) in the fourth match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025. The chase was clinical, with Smriti Mandhana leading the way with a blistering 81 runs off 47 balls, propelling RCB to a comfortable win with 22 balls to spare. The result marks RCB’s second win in the tournament, enhancing their position as a formidable side. Delhi, despite a few individual sparks, fell short in both batting and bowling, leaving them with a lot to reflect upon after the heavy defeat.

Delhi Capitals’ innings falter under pressure

Delhi’s batting innings was a tale of missed opportunities and unfulfilled promises. From the very beginning, they were on the back foot, with Shafali Verma’s unfortunate dismissal for a duck setting the tone. Meg Lanning, the captain, was dismissed cheaply for just 17 runs, and despite some resistance from Jemimah Rodrigues (34 runs) and Sarah Bryce (23 runs), the middle order crumbled under pressure. The performance was further hampered by the lack of partnerships, as wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. RCB’s bowlers, particularly Renuka Singh, were on top of their game, executing their plans flawlessly. Renuka’s 3-wicket haul for 23 runs, along with Georgia Wareham’s excellent spell, dismantled Delhi’s batting line-up. With 141 runs on the board, Delhi found themselves in a challenging position, having posted a below-par total that would need a herculean effort to defend.

Also READ: WPL 2025: He??re’s why Delhi Capitals fielded 5 overseas players against Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Smriti Mandhana’s masterclass powers RCB to a comfortable victory

Mandhana’s outstanding 81-run knock turned the match firmly in RCB’s favor, as the opening batter led her team to victory in clinical fashion. Mandhana’s performance was an exhibition of elegant stroke play, as she found gaps with ease, smashing 10 boundaries and 3 sixes, with a strike rate of over 170. Her ability to accelerate and stay composed under pressure was evident from the way she paced her innings. Alongside her, Danni Wyatt-Hodge played a supporting role with a valuable knock of 42 runs off 33 balls, adding stability to the chase. Their 107-run opening partnership put RCB in a commanding position, leaving little room for the Delhi bowlers to fight back. After Wyatt and Mandhana’s dismissal, Ellyse Perry and Richa Ghosh brought the match to a close with ease, sealing the victory with 22 balls to spare. This all-around performance by RCB, spearheaded by Mandhana, proved they are a force to be reckoned with in the Women’s Premi?er League.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Top class from Mandhana 👌 Has 50+ scores in four of her last 5 T20s now. And all of them at 150+ SR.#WPL2025

— Rohit Sankar (@imRohit_SN) February 17, 2025

Gorgeous?? innings from Smriti. Needed to set her up for the seas??on. Class 50.

— arfan (@Im__Arfan) February 17, 2025

Now that's a milestone to be super proud of. 👏

Smriti Mandhana racks up 500 runs in WPL, a feat that is a burning ode to her brilliance. 🔥 ⚡️#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB #SheIsBold #WPL2025 #DCvRCB pic.twitter.com/ZgdC4TWfeH

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 17, 2025

Queen, Smriti Mandhana's elegance. ✨️ #DCvRCB #WPL2025 pic.twitter.com/pHxb8duZOJ

— Prathamesh Avachare (@onlyprathamesh) February 17, 2025

More than 20,000 people are watching a women’s T20 game on a Monday ??in Vadodara. And remember, all these spectators have paid to watch these women play.

RCB effect f??or sure, but it’s a big win for Indian women’s cricket.

So happy to see this. #WPL2025 #RCBvDC

— Gaurav Nandan | गौरव नंदन (@Cric_Beyond_Ent) February 17, 2025

The capitals' batters needed to invest their time better at the crease. They have to do better in the second half of the game. #WPLT20 #RCBvDC#WPLonJioStar

— WV Raman (@wvraman) February 17, 2025

In form Smriti Mandhana is a delight to watch.@teamball2hall

— Manish Agrawal (@theindia_united) February 17, 2025

Smriti ✌️😎✌️

— Danish Sait (@DanishSait) February 17, 2025

The queen of RCB is back pic.twitter.com/Hz1AhZwhXN

— Pari (@BluntIndianGal) February 17, 2025

2 wins in 2 matches for RCB 🙌🏏#women #cricket #DCvRCB #WPL2025 #RCB #CricketTwitter #WomenCricket pic.twitter.com/zdmX3eXf3L

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) February 17, 2025

Also READ: WV Raman suggests Au?stralian legend as India’s me??ntor for Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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Apart from Virat Kohli being one of the greatest cricketers of all time, the former Indian skipper has a long-standing relationship with controversy. Kohli has made it into controversial waters once again as former Australian cricket writer Ben Horne compared the action of Kohli with that of the recent saga of events related to the bowling action of Matthew Kuhnemann.

Ben Horne questioned leniency over Virat Kohli’s shoulder barge with Sam Konstas

Kohli has once again found himself in the spotlight of Australian media, more than a month after the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Test series. This time, his name resurfaced amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Kuhnemann’s bowling action, As this controversy unfolded, Australian cricket writer Ben Horne reignited discussions about Kohli’s past incident involving Sam Konstas. He accused the ICC of being hypocritical, recalling how Kohli had deliberately shoulder-barged Konstas during his debut Test but avoided a ban. The resurfacing of this debate has added another layer to the ongoing discussions surrounding the ICC’s consistency in enforcing disciplinary actions.

“Virat Kohli was hit with one of the softest sanctions of all time, yet match officials in Sri Lanka were happy to make an example out of a five-Test orthodox spinner over a marginal bowling action, they are completely different situations that don’t even belong in the same conversation other than the all too familiar running theme that the game’s governing body is sport’s biggest toothless tiger, until an easy target (Kuhnemann) presents itself,” Horne wrote on the Daily Telegraph.

During the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, Kohli was involved in an incident with debutant Konstas. Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee and received one demerit point for a shoulder barge against Konstas. This action violated Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which prohibits inappropriate physical contact. Kohli admitted to the offense and accepted the sanction proposed?? by the match referee, avoiding a formal hearing.

Also Read: WV Raman sugg??ests Australian legend as India’s mentor for Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

The Matthew Kuhnemann’s bowling action saga

After his success in the 2-match Test series against Sri Lanka, Kuhnemann’s bowling action was reported for ‘chucking�?the ball. Kuhnemann, who played a pivotal role in Australia’s historic 2-0 Test series whitewash against Sri Lanka by claiming 16 wickets at an average of 17.18, now faces scrutiny as his action must undergo testing to determine its legality. According to ICC regulations, a bowler’s elbow extension must not exceed 15 degrees before delivery, or it is deemed illegal.

Kuhnemann’s biomechanical testing will be conducted at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane, despite the ICC typically preferring such assessments to be carried out overseas. Under the supervision of ICC experts, Kuhnemann will undergo rigorous evaluation, with motion markers placed on his arm and multiple cameras capturing his bowling action from various angles.

To ensure accuracy, he will be required to replicate the same bowling speed and ball revolutions as he? did during the Test series in Sri Lanka, whe?re he claimed 16 wickets at an impressive average of 17.18. The ICC will then analyze the data over the following weeks to determine whether his action complies with regulations or if his arm extends beyond the permissible 15-degree limit, which would classify it as illegal.

Also Read: Australia’s Adam Gilchrist suggests a surprising choice as Travis Head’s o??pening partner for Champions Trophy 2025

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to bring intense cricketing action, with Pakistan and the UAE hosting the prestigious event. Fans are eagerly anticipating high-voltage encounters, especially with top teams battling for glory. As Pakistan prepares?? to host a major ICC tournament for the ??first time since 1996, the excitement is at an all-time high. The tournament, scheduled to begin on February 19, promises thrilling matches and fierce rivalries.

Younis Khan picks Pakistan’s match winner in Champions Trophy 2025

Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan termed Fakhar Zaman as the key player who could lead Pakistan to success in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Younis emph?asized Zaman’s ability to rise to the occasion in crucial matches, citing his history of delivering match-winning performances in high-pressure situations.

He specifically pointed? out Fakhar’s fearless batting approach, which has often given Pakistan strong starts in major tournaments. Younis also recalled Fakhar’s heroics in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India, where he scored a remarkable century to guide Pakistan to their m??aiden title.

“Zaman could play a pivotal role in leading Pakistan to victory with a memorable innings, as he has done in the past,” Younis said, as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.

Also READ: Fakhar Zaman p?icks 3 Indian players to watch out for in the Champi??ons Trophy 2025

Younis Khan backs Pakistan’s balanced squad for the global event

Younis reckoned that the national team has a well-rounded squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He emphasized the presence of experienced and high-quality batters like Fakhar, Babar Azam, and Mohammad ?Rizwan, who have been consistent performers for Pakistan in recent years. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of the pace duo—Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah—who will play a crucial role in leading Pakistan’s bowlin?g attack.

“The team selected for the Champions Trophy is fairly well-balanced. We have experienced and top-quality batsmen like Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan. On the bowling front, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah will be essential fast bowlers for Pakistan,” he added.

Also READ: Not Babar Azam! Harbhajan Singh names a Pakistani star who can be ??a threat to India in Champions Trophy 2025

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Cricket is not just a sport in India; it’s an emotion, a dream, and for many, a lifeline. The story of Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya is a testament to how passion, perseverance, and the right opportunity can transform lives. Nita Ambani, owner of the Mumbai Indians (MI), recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about her first ??meeting with the Pandya brothers, revealing their humble beginnings and the grit that propelled them to cricketing stardom.

Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya’s struggle for survival

Long before Hardik became the flamboyant all-rounder of the Indian cricket team and Krunal became a reliable name in the IPL, the brothers were just two lanky boys with big dreams and empty pockets. Ambani recalled how the duo revealed ??during their first meeting that the?y had survived on nothing but Maggi noodles for three years.

�?em>I was talking to them, and they said that for three years, they’ve eaten nothing but Maggi noodles because they’ve had no money. But in them, I saw the spirit, the passion and the hunger that they wanted to make it big. Those two brothers were Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya. In 2015, I bought Hardik Pandya at 10 thousand US dollars in the auction, and today, he’s the proud captain of Mumbai Indians,�?she shared during the key note address at the Ha??rvard India co?nference on Indian policy and culture.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians (MI) announces replacement for Afghanist??an’s spinner Allah Ghazanfar

Mumbai Indians�?golden eye for talent

Mumbai Indians are not just a cricket team; they are a talent factory. Their scouting network is unparalleled, and their ability to identify and nurture young talen??t has made them five-time IPL champions. Hardik’s journey with MI began in 2015 when he was bought for a modest sum of $10,000. Today, he stands as the proud captain of the franchise, a testament to MI’s faith in his potential. Amban??i emphasized the importance of scouting in domestic matches, where she and her team would often spot raw talent.

�?em>In IPL, we all have a fixed budget, so every team can spend x amount of money, so we had to think about new ways of getting talent… So I remember scouting for talent, and I used to go to every Ranji Trophy match, and my scouts and I would go to all these domestic cricket matches. And one day, our scouts took two young, lanky, thin boys to the camp,�?Ambani added.

Jasprit Bumrah: The boy who talked to the ball

While the Pandya brothers�?story is inspiring, it’s not the only one. Jasprit Bumrah, another MI success story, was discovered under equally remarkable circumstances. Ambani recalled how their scouts brought in a young bowler with an unconventional action and an �?em>odd body language.�?Bumrah, who grew up bowling with tennis and tape? balls, is now regarded as one of the best fast bowlers in the world. His journey from obscurity to international stardom is a shining example of MI’s ability to spot and nurture talent.

�?em>The next year, our scouts got one young cricketer with an odd body language, and they said watch him bowl. We watched him he could just speak to the ball. That was our Bumrah and the rest is history. Last year, we launched Tilak Varma, and now he is a proud member of Team India. So I think Mumbai Indians is rightfully called the nursery of cricket in India,�?she stated.

The nursery of Indian cricket

Mumbai Indians have earned the reputation of being the �?em>nursery of Indian cricket.�?From Hardik and Krunal to Bumrah and Tilak Varma, the franchise has consistently produced players who go on to represent the national team. Ambani takes pride in this legacy, stating, �?em>We don’t just build players; we build dreams.�?The stories ?of these cricketers are not just about their rise to fame but also about the unwavering support and oppor?tunities provided by MI.

Also READ: Mumbai Indians shares a priceless reaction over Jasprit Bumrah’s? latest ICC milestone

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T??he conversation around the greatest bowlers in ODI history is one that seems to have no end. With the evolution of cricket over decades, fans and experts alike have often debated who truly stands at the pinnacle of the game in the 50-over format. While the batters get the limelight, it is the bowlers who frequently turn the game on its head with their skill, control, and impact.

From the swing kings of the past to the fiery pacers of the modern era, the list of legendary ODI bowlers continues to grow, each with their own unique set of skills and records. Amid this ongoing debate, former cricketer Zaheer Khan, one of India’s finest fast bowlers, recently shared his personal list of the top 5 bowlers in ODI cricket, acknowledging the impact t??hese players had on the game during their time.

Zaheer Khan lists out his top 5 bowlers in ODI cricket

In a conversation on Cricbuzz, Zaheer Khan highlighted the contributions of some of the greatest bowle?rs in ODI history.

The Sultan of Swing

Zaheer couldn’t overlook the legendary Wasim Akram, who he believes made an undeniable impact in ODI cricket. With his unmatched swing, accurate yorkers, and variations, ??Akram was a game-changer for Pakistan. Akram, who played 356 ODIs and picked up 502 wickets, was the first bowler?? to cross the 500-wicket mark in the format. Zaheer praised his ability to use his pace and skill to dominate, especially with his ability to bowl both around and over the wicket.

“There were a lot of the international bowlers around me, which were making a really good impact. Wasim Akram is obviously one of those names which were impactful in this format, with his variations, those yorkers, going around the wicket, over the wicket, and using those slow ones. In this format, he’s had a huge impact,” said Zaheer.

The Australian maestro

Zaheer also expressed admiration for Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, who was known for his incredible accuracy and simplicity in action. “McGrath’s extra bounce and his ability to make an impact with the new ball were remarkable,�?said Zaheer.

McGrath’s consistency, throughout his career, allowed him to maintain pressure on the batsmen and claim wickets across formats, making him one of the most reliable bowlers? in ODI history.

“Another name which I really looked up to also was Glenn McGrath. With the accuracy which he had, the simplicity in the action, and that extra bounce and impact with the new ball, it is something which was very evident right throughout his career, across all formats,” explained Zaheer.

Also READ: Indi?a legend Sunil Gavaskar picks the most destructive opening batter in ODI cricket

The pace sensation of Pakistan

When talking about impact, Waqar Younis’s ?name is never far behind. Zaheer highlighted Younis’s ability to strike at key moments, pointing to his remarkable ODI stats, inc??luding 416 wickets in 262 matches.

“Let’s talk about Waqar Younis. You talk about the strike rate; you talk about the impact. If you look at his numbers (416 wickets in 262 ODIs) also, they are right up there, and especially the number which is striking is the number of fifers (13) he has taken in ODI format right throughout his career. So, the impact was phenomenal in terms of having that striking ability,” added Zaheer.

The Sri Lankan legend

Zaheer also recognized Sri Lanka’s Chaminda Vaas for his consistency and control, especially in subcontinental conditions. Vaas was known for his accuracy with the new ball, and his ability to keep the pressure on the batsmen with his dis??ciplined line and length made him an impactfu?l player for Sri Lanka. His control allowed his team to gain crucial breakthroughs, especially in critical moments.

“Chaminda Vaas is another bowler who I feel has to be right up there. His impact, if you go to see, was pretty much with the new ball. In subcontinental conditions, to have that kind of accuracy, keeping things simple, and he was very impactful in giving that control to his team with line length, accuracy, and consistency,” stated the Indian pace legend.

The South African superstar

Finally, Zaheer couldn’t leave out South Africa’s Dale Steyn, who was known for his fiery approach and fast outswingers. Steyn’s pace, combined with his ability to get through the crease quickly, made him one of the most feared fast bowlers in ODI cricket. Zaheer highlighted Steyn’s ability to maintain his intensity and impact throughout his career, making him a constant threat for opposition batters.

“Dale Steyn is someone who we all know with his fiery approach, with his fast outswingers, is something, you know, which impact was always there. He used to get through that crease very fast and had impact through and through,” Zaheer added further.

Also READ: Kane Williams??on overtakes Virat Kohli to accomplish a ma??jor milestone in ODI cricket

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The Indian cricket team kicked off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a rigorous training session at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Sunday. Led by Rohit Sharma, the Men in Blue are set to begin their Group A journey against Bangladesh on Thursday at the Dubai International Stadium.

The team’s attention, after that, will soon shift to their much-anticipated clash against Pakistan over the weekend at the same venue. With high expectations riding on them, India are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. The training session, lasting over three hours, fo??cused on match simulation, fitness drills, and tactical?? adjustments to counter the opposition. Players fine-tuned their skills under the watchful eyes of the coaching staff, ensuring they are in peak condition for the challenges ahead.

Virat Kohli’s creative approach to satisfy his food references

In the midst of intense training and preparation for the Champions Trophy 2025, Virat Kohli, known for his discipline and focus, found a clever way to satisfy his food preferences, despite the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)‘s new rules banning personal chefs for players. Despite the restrictions, Kohli demonstrated resourcefulness when it came to meeting his dietary preferences.

According to the Times of India report, after the strenuous practice session, Kohli took matters into his own hands by discussing his food requirements with the team’s local manager. In an effort to balance his personal cravings with the team’s logistical constraints, the manager returned with a paper bag containing boxes of food from one of ?Dubai’s well-known eater??ies.

The report further stated that Kohli was later seen enjoying the meal, with some portions s?aved for later, indicating his meticulous attention to his nutritional needs. This small but clever workaround allowed Kohli to maintain his dietary routine without breaking the rules, showcasing his adaptabil??ity in challenging situations.

Also READ: India’s group-stage rivals: Evaluating Pakist?an, New Zealand & Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025

BCCI’s new code of conduct and its impact on team logistics

The Indian Cricket Board’s recent changes to team logistics and player conduct have raised eyebrows in the cricketing world. Following India’s underwhelming performance in their Australian tour, the BCCI introduced a 10-point code of conduct aimed at streamlining operations and promoting discipline within the squad. One significant clause in this directive prohibits players from bringing personal staff such as chefs, security personnel, or assistants, unless explicitly authorized by the board. This move was intended to limit external influences and simplify the team’s logistics, but it also imposed certain restrictions on players like Kohli, who have become accustomed to having more control over their diet and nutrition during tours.

Also READ: Aakash Chopra points out the ‘main weakness�?in I?ndia’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad

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The Champions Trophy 2025 is right around the corner with teams gearing up to face each other to lay their hands on the coveted ICC trophy. Amidst ongoing preparations for breathtaking encounters between 8 sides set to be held in Pakistan and the UAE, former Australian pacer Brett Lee has picked 4? bowlers of his choice to watch out for during the prestigious tourname??????????????????????????nt.

Brett Lee chooses his best 4 bowlers for Champions Trophy 2025

As the cricketing world gets prepared for action-packed matches and scintillating fixtures, Lee has picked 4 bowlers during a discussion on his YouTube channel, who could prove detrimental to rival sides during the Champions ??Trophy 2025.

According to Lee, England’s pace wizard Jofra Archer is one of the bowlers to have a close eye on for the Champions Trophy. Archer who was an important part of the England squad that won the 2019 Men’s ODI World Cup is known for his fast-paced bowling and wicket-taking ability. The 29-year-old?? has an exciting ODI record with 48 wickets in 28 ODI matches to his name.

Another bowler that Lee believes could be a difference-maker for his side is Afghanistan’s spin sensation, Rashid Khan. The spin wizard has proven that he can be a bone of contention f?or batters with his lethal leg-spin. The 28-year-old has a remarkable record in the ODI with 198 wickets in 111 matches to his name.

Pakistan’s pace maestro Shaheen Afridi is another lethal bowler who, according to Lee, could turn the tide for his side. Accordin?g to Lee, Shaheen’s wicket-taking ability and home advantage can make him the star performer of the tournament. Shaheen has proved his prowess in the ODI format with 124 wickets in 60 matches.

At last, Lee believes India’s pace sensation Mohammed Shami co??uld be the star for India during the tournament. Shami has a remarkable record in ICC events and a glimpse of his wicket-taking ability and disciplined approach was seen during the 2023 ODI World Cup. The 34-year-old has taken 197 wickets in 103 ODI matches.

Also Read: Champions Trop??hy 2025: Rashid Latif terms an A??fghanistan star as greater cricketer than Wasim Akram

8 teams to contest for Champions Trophy 2025

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy features eight top ODI teams divided into two groups. Group A comprises Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, while Group B includes Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan. Each team will play three group-stage matches, facing every other team in their gr?oup. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals. The Indian team are scheduled to play all their matches in Dubai, with the rest of the tournament hosted across venues in Pakistan. The tournament kicks off on February 19 with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi.

Also Read: Top 5 best bowling figures in the Champions ?Trophy history ft. Shahid Afrid?i

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The cricketing world is abuzz with excitement as Afghanistan’s star all-rounder, Rashid Khan, arrived in Karachi to join his team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament, set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE, pr?omises to be a thrilling spectacle, and Rashid’s arrival has already added a touch of star power to the event.

A heartwarming video shared by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on social media captured the moment Rashid was welcomed by Pakistan’s Haris Rauf and batting maestro Babar Azam at the team hotel. The camaraderie between t??he player?s highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect that defines cricket.

Babar Azam and Haris Rauf welcomes the Afghan superstar Rashid Khan

The video of Rashid’s arrival quickly went viral, showcasing the warm reception he received from his Pakistan counterparts. Rauf, known for his fiery pace, greeted Rashid with a smile and a handshake, while ?Babar, one of the world’s top batters, engaged in a friendly chat with the Afghan all-rounder. The interaction between the players was a testament to the bond that transcends rivalries on the field.

Rashid’s arrival in Karachi marks a significant mome??nt for Afghanistan cricket, as the team looks to make a strong impression in the Champions Trophy. Known for his lethal leg-spin and explosive batting, Rashid is a key player for Afghanistan, and his presence is expected to bolster the team’s chances in the tournam?ent.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: India’s Parthiv Patel reveals ???the ‘dark horse�?in Champions Trophy 2025

Afghanistan’s rocky start ahead of prestigious tournament

Rashid’s arrival comes at a critical juncture for Afghanistan, who are looking to bounce back after a challenging start to their Champions Trophy preparations. In their first warm-up match, Afghanistan faced a crushing defeat at the hands of Pakistan Shaheens. The Shaheens posted a formidable total of 314/8 in their 50 overs, thanks to impressive performances from Hussain Talat (70), Mohsin Riaz (61), and Mohammad Irfan Khan (57).

Afghanistan’s batting lineup struggled to cope with the pressure, collapsing to 170 all out in 38.4 overs. The Shaheens�?captain, Shadab Khan, led from the front with the ball, claiming 3/29 and dismantling Afghanis??tan’s batting order. The 144-run loss was a wake-up call for the Afghan team, who are now f?ocused on regrouping and refining their strategies ahead of the main tournament.

Afghanistan’s road map for the Champions Trophy 2025

Currently, Afghanistan are playing their second warm-up match against New Zealand in Karachi. Under the leadership of Hashmatullah Shahidi, the team is determined to iron out their flaws and build mom??entum before the Champions Trophy begins. The warm-up matches serve as a crucial opportunity for the players to adapt to the conditions and fine-tune their game plans.

Afghanistan’s campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 will kick off on February 21 at the newly renovated National Bank Stadium in Karachi, where they will face South Africa. The team will then travel to Lahore to take on England on February 26 and Australia on February 28. The??se matches will be a true test of Afghanistan’s resilience and ability to compete against the world’s best teams.

As Afghanistan’s talisman, Rashid’s role in the team cannot be overstated. His ability to turn games with both bat and ball makes him a formidable opponent for any team. Rashid’s arrival in Pakistan has not only lifted the spirits of the Afghan squad b??ut also added an extra layer of excitement for fans eagerl??y anticipating the Champions Trophy.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Austral??ia’s M??ichael Clarke predicts top run-scorer, wicket-taker and player of the tournament

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Without a doubt, Ashleigh Gardner is one of the finest players of the game with her outstanding ability to deliver at crucial junctures of the game. The Australian all-rounder is currently leading Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in which th??e cricketing world saw another glimpse of her outstanding commitment to securing important wickets for her team.

Ashleigh Gardner takes a screamer to send Deepti Sharma back to the pavilion

The incident occurred during the 15th over of the UP Warriorz innings when Shweta Sehrawat and skipper Deepti Sharma were at the crease to get some quick runs for their team. In her quest to display some scenic shots, Sharma went down the ground and exploded on an incoming ball from Priya Mishra, but completely misjudged the speed of the bowl. The delivery edged off her bat instead and sailed high in the air towards the Giants�?skipper who dived toward his right to take a breathtaking catch and marked the end of Sharma’s innings. Sharma’s wicket came at a crucial time of the match as it helped the Giants to further restrict Warriorz’s innings and managed to exert further pressure on the visitors’ batting line-up.

Here’s the video

Captain 🆚 Captain

Deepti Sharma departs as flying Gardner grabs a stunner 👏#TATAWPL | #GGvUPW | @Giant_Cricket pic.twitter.com/GodR9Qkcux

— Women's Premier League (WPL) (@wplt20) February 16, 2025

Also Watch: ?Priya Mishra’s magical over removes both Tahlia McGrath and Grace Harris in no time

A disciplined effort from Gujarat Giants led to their first win in WPL

Giants secured a convincing six-wicket victory over Warriorz in Match 3 of the WPL 2025. Chasing a target of 144, Gujarat reached 144/4 in 18 overs, thanks to a match-winning knock from captain Gardner, who scored a blistering 52 off 32 balls with five fours and three sixes. She was well-supported by Harleen Deol and Deandra Dottin, who ensured a comfortable chase.

Earlier, Warriorz struggled to build momentum, managing 143/9 in their 20 overs. Sophie Ecclestone was the pick of the bowlers for UP, taking 2/16 in her four overs, while Tahlia McGrath and Grace Harris chipped in with a wicket each. However, their efforts were not enough to stop Gujarat from registering their first win of the season. Gardner’s all-round brilliance, which in??cluded bowling figures of 2/39 in four overs, earned her the Player of the Match award.

Also Watch: Twitter reactions: Priya Mishr?a and Ashleigh Gardner shine in Gujarat Giants�?d?ominant win over UP Warriorz in the WPL 2025

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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