With Rohit Sharma in the latter stages of his career, discussions about India’s next captain have intensified. Several young players are in contention to take on the leadership role, given their performances and maturity on the field. Among the top contenders are Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya, who have ??shown the temperament and skill required to lead the team. While the Board of Control for Crick??et in India (BCCI) has yet to make an official decision, cricket experts and former players have started weighing in on the likely successor.

Shikhar Dhawan predicts the next captain of India

Veteran Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has expressed confidence in Gill as the future captain of Team India. Speaking to reporters after India’s clash against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Dhawan said, “Yes, definitely he will become the captain. He is the vice-captain right now, but it is clear that someday he will become the captain of India.”

Gill’s consistent perf?ormances and leadership qualities have impressed many, making him the frontrunner for the coveted role once Rohit steps down. With his composed demeanor and ability to anchor the innings under pressure, Gill has already proven himself as a dependable batter for the team.

Also READ: Champi??ons Trophy 2025: Semifinalists of Group A confirmed

Fine form of the stylish opener

Gill is c??urrently in sensational form, further strengthening his case for future captaincy. After delivering a ?stunning performance in the three-match ODI series against England, Gill has continued his excellent run in the Champions Trophy 2025.

The right-handed opener kickstarted the tournament with a magnificent century against Bangladesh, setting the tone for India’s campaign. In the high-voltage match against Pakistan, he once again played a crucial role??, narrowly missing a half-century by just four runs. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure make him one of the key players for India’s title aspirations.

Also WATCH: Shikhar Dhawan enters Indian dressing room to announce best fielder medal after the IND vs PAK match at ??Champions Trophy 2025

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Pakistan’s pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi once again proved his class on the big stage as he dismissed Indian skipper Rohit Sharma with an absolute peach of a delivery during the high-voltage ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash. The left-arm seamer, known for his ability to swing the ball prodigiously at high speeds, produced an unplayable inswinging yorker that shattered Rohit’s stumps, leaving Indian supporters stunned.

Shaheen Afridi’s dream delivery: A perfect yorker

The breathtaking moment came on the final ball of the fourth over when Afridi, running in with his t??rademark aggression, delivered a full, fast, and perfectly executed inswinging yorker. The ball tailed in sharply at express pace, sneaking through the narrow gap between bat and boot, and crashed into the middle stump before Rohit could even bring his bat down in time. The Indian captain, who looked in good touch until then, was left rooted to the crease as his off-stump cartwheeled behind him. Afridi’s celebration was instant and animated, as he let out a triumphant roar, knowing he had removed one of India’s most dangerous batters early in the innings. His teammates rushed towards him in jubilation, while Rohit could only walk back dejectedly, his lean patch with the bat continuing in the crucial tournament.

Here’s the video:

AND HE DID IT
pic.twitter.com/UZ6NdYPv1a //t.co/wc5jQnkbHK

— -invader 🇵🇸 (@sshayaannn) February 23, 2025

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya gives Babar Azam a cheek??y ‘bye-bye�send-off in Champions Trophy 2025

Another poor outing for Rohit Sharma against left-arm pacers

Rohit’s dismissal for 20 runs once again highlighted his struggles against high-quality left-arm pace. The Indian captain had started fluently, playing a few crisp drives and flicks, but Afridi’s masterful delivery proved too good for him. The wicket not only dented India’s early momentum but also handed Pakistan a breakthrough in their quest to dominate the high-stakes encounter. Afridi’s ability to strike in the powerplay has been a major weapon for Pakistan, and his dismissal of Rohit served as a perfect reminder of why he is one of the most feared new-ball bowlers in world cricket.

Also READ: IND vs PAK �??Here’s why Fakhar Zaman is not playing t?oday’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match

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India started their ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a dominant six-wicket victory over Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. However, the match had its share of drama as skipper Rohit Sharma’s dropped catch denied Axar Patel a historic moment.

Axar Patel’s near hat-trick opportunity

In the ninth over of Bangladesh’s innings, left-arm spinner Axar was in red-hot form. He dismissed opener Tanzid Hasan and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim off c??onsecutive deliveries, setting himself up for a rare ODI hat-trick. With only four Ind??ian bowlers having previously achieved the feat in ODIs, Axar was on the verge of history.

On the hat-trick ball, Jaker Ali edged it straight to Rohit at first slip. It seemed like a straightf??orward chance for the Indian captain, known for his safe hands, but he surprisingly spilled the catch, letting the opportun??ity slip away.

Rohit Sharma’s reaction and apology to Axar

Rohit’s immediate reaction showed his frustration—he slammed the turf, uttered a few words in disappointment, and turned to Axar with folded hands in a gesture of apology. The missed catch was ??a moment of agony, not just for Rohit but for the entire Indian team and fans who recognized how special a hat-trick in the Champions Trophy could have been.

Speaking after the match, Rohit took full responsibility for the mistake. He admitted: “That was an easy catch, I should have taken that with the standards I have set for myself.”

Attempting to lighten the mood, he added, “I may take Axar for dinner tomorrow.”

Also READ: IND vs BAN: ‘He had dropped it’ – Axar Patel breaks silence after Rohit Sharma denies him a Champions Trophy 2025 hat-trick

India’s clinical chase seals victory

Despite Rohit’s drop, Bangladesh posted a competitive total, with Jaker making the most of his lifeline and scoring 68, supported by a solid innings from Towhid Hridoy. However, India comfortably chased down the target, with Rohit himself contributing at the top of the order. Though the major contribution came from Shubman Gill, who smashed a brilliant c??entury to take India over the finish line.

After the win, Rohit p?raised the team’s overall effort while acknowledging Bangladesh’s fight.

“The way Jaker and Hridoy batted, credit to them—they put us under some pressure. But our bowlers did the job early on, and that’s what matters,” Rohit added further.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Shubman Gill’s blazing ton propels India to crucial win over Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025

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India and Bangladesh are locking horns in Match 02 of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai Internationa??l Cricket Stadium on Thursday, February 20. The high-voltage encounter saw both teams eager to start their campaign on a winning note. While India entered the tournament as one of the favorites, Bangladesh aimed to spring a surprise with their talented squad.

Bangladesh post a below-par total after Towhid Hridoy’s ton

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh suffered an early collapse as they lost five wickets inside the powerplay. However, middle-order batter Towhid Hridoy led the fightback with a brilliant century. His 154-run stand with Jake Ali for the sixth wicket helped Bangladesh recover from a precarious position. Despite Hridoy’s heroic effort, the Bangla Tigers could only manage 228 runs before ge?tting bo?wled out. India were handed a target of 229 to chase in their tournament opener.

Rohit Sharma goes past Sachin Tendulkar to accomplish a landmark in ODIs

During India’s chase, skipper Rohit Sharma etched his name in the record books by becoming the second-fastest player to reach 11,000 runs in ODI cricket. Rohit achieved the milestone in just 261 innings, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who reached the feat in 276 innings. Only Virat Kohli has taken fewer innings (222) to breach the 11,?000-run mark in ODIs.

Also WATCH: IND vs BAN – ‘Centurion’ Towhid Hridoy hits consecutive sixes against Ravindra Jadeja in Champions Trophy 2025

Fastest to 11,000 ODI Runs:

• Virat Kohli â€?222 innings
• Rohit Sharma â€?261 innings
• Sachin Tendulkar â€?276 innings
• Ricky Ponting â€?286 innings
• Sourav Ganguly â€?288 innings

Rohit also became only the fourth Indian batter to achieve this feat after Tendulkar, Kohli, and Sourav Ganguly.? His achievement added another feather to his illustrious career as he continues to lead India from the front in major t??ournaments.

Also READ: Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli? Bollywood actress Sanya Malhotra picks?? her favou??rite cricketer

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In a light-hearted moment that has captured the attention of cricket and Bollywood fans alike, actress Sanya Malhotra has revealed her favourite cricketer between Indian stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. During a recent podcast with Shubhankar Mishra, Sanya expressed her preference, but with a humorous twist – she admitted to having little knowledge about cricket.

Sanya Malhotra’s choice of cricketer

When asked to choose between the two cricketing icons, Sanya quickly responded, “Virat Kohli.” However, she was quick to clarify that her choice wasn’t based on cricketing prowess or statistics. “Honestly, I don’t know much about cricket,” she confessed, adding a touch of humour ?to her r??esponse. This candid admission resonated with many fans who appreciated her honesty.

The revelation sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with fans sharing their thoughts on Sanya’s choice. Many found her straightforwardness refreshing, while others playfully debated the merits of both cricketers. The interaction highlighted how celebrities often engage with sports culture, even when they may not be deeply versed in it.

Also READ: Yuzvendra Chahal proposed to Zaara Yesm?in?: Actress breaks her silence

Champions Trophy 2025: BCCI allows Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and other Indian cricketers to travel with families but on their terms

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has granted permission for Indian cricket team members to have their families accompany them during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai. This decision offers relief to senior players like Rohit and Virat, especially after the board had previously enforced strict restrictions following India’s underwhelming performance in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While players have been allowed to have their families present at the stadium, the privilege is limited to just one match. To ensure smooth coordination, team members have to submit their requests to the BCCI, which will then handle the necessary arrangements.

As per the report, ?the family members of most of the cricketers will be present at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium during the India vs Pakistan on Sunday, February 23.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025 – Meet the wives and girlfriends of Indian cricketers

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India and Bangladesh are locking horns in the second match?? of the ICC Champio??ns Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Bangladesh, after winning the toss, opted to bat first, looking to set a challenging total against a formidable Indian bowling attack. However, the moment that stole the spotlight was Axar Patel’s near hat-trick, which was ultimately denied due to a costly drop by Indian captain Rohit Sharma.

Axar Patel strikes twice in two balls

The dramatic sequence unfolded in the eighth over of the innings. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, brought into the a??ttack, made an instant impact, striking twice in consecutive deliveries.

On? the second ball of the over, Axar bowled a flat-length delivery outside off-stump to Bangladesh opener Tanzid Hasan, who attempted to cut it through the off-side but only managed to edge it behind. Wicketkeeper KL Rahul made no mistake in grabbing the catch, but Axar seemed unsure whether there was any contact with the bat. However, the umpire’s delayed but firm decision sent Tanzid back to the pavilion for 25 off 25 balls.

With confidence soaring, Axar delivered another brilliant ball on the very next delivery, this time to Mushfiqur Rahim. The veteran Bangladeshi batter leaned forward to defend, but the ball spun away slightly, taking the shoulder of ?his bat before nestling safely in Rahul’s gloves once again. The Indians erupted in celebration as Mushfiqur departed for a golden duck.

Hat-trick ball drama

With two wickets in two balls, Axar stood on the brink of a hat-trick. The pressure was on new batter Jaker Ali as he took guard. Axar bowled a well-flighted delivery just outside off, drawing Jaker into a defensi??ve push. The ball took the o?utside edge and flew towards first slip, where Rohit Sharma was perfectly positioned.

However, in a shocking moment, the Indian skipper dropped what appeared to be a routine catch. As the ball popped out of his hands, Rohit hit the ground multiple times in frustration, fully aware that he had just denied Axar a dream hat-trick. Axar, who was visibly disappointed, could only accept his captain’s apology as the golden opportunity slipped away.

Axar Patel picks up two wickets in two balls?, but?????????????????????????? on the third delivery, Rohit Sharma drops a catch.

– Axar misses his hat-trick.#ChampionsTrophy2025 #INDvBAN pic.twitter.com/uOnycEWaZW

— Huzaifa (@Huzaifa_Says11) February 20, 2025

Rohit Sharma drops Axar Patel's hat-trick ball! Have to feel for axar. Totally deserved a hat trick there. #IndvsBan #INDvsBAN pic.twitter.com/Cv9PomRuMO

— Akshat Om (@AkshatOM10) February 20, 2025

Also WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah’s absence from ICC Champions Trophy?? 2025 leaves Me??hidy Hasan Miraz relieved

India maintains control against Bangladesh

Despite Rohit’s blunde?r, India remained in control, keeping Bangladesh’s batters in check with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Axar continued to bowl with ?precision, while the rest of the Indian attack ensured that Bangladesh struggled to build momentum.

Bangladesh were 62/5 by the end of the 15??th over, Towhid Hridoy (14*) and Jake Ali (15*) battling against the quality Indian bow?ling attack.

Also READ: Pakistan’s opener Fakhar Zaman ruled out the Champions Trophy 2025; replacement announced

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As the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian men’s cricket team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. The team, led by the charismatic Rohit Sharma, has been training rigorously at the ICC Cricket Academy in Dubai. Amidst the intense practice sessi?ons, a light-hearted moment involving Rohit and a local fast bowler has caught the attention of fans worldwide.

Rohit Sharma’s playful banter with Awais Khan

During a training session under the Dubai lights, Rohit was seen engaging in some friendly banter with a local fast bowler, Awais Khan. The video, which has since gone vi?ral, shows Rohit praising Awais for his ability to bowl inswinging yorkers.

Known for his calm demeanor and witty remarks, Rohit jokingly teased Awais, saying, �em>Class bowler. Aap humare joota�pair todne ki kosish kar rahe the inswinging yorker maar ke. Badiya bhai badiya. Aap log humko yaha help kar rahe ho, bada acha laga, thank you.�/p>

Translated, Rohit’s words were a mix of appreciation and humour: �em>You were trying to break our shoes and feet with those inswinging yorkers. Well done, brother. You’ve been helping us here, and it feels great. Thank you.?�This interaction not only highlighted Rohit’s down-to-earth nature but also showcased the camaraderie between the Indian team and the local support staff.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Top-ranked players from each team

The local talent who impressed the captain

Awais, the local fast bowle??r, became an ove??rnight sensation after Rohit’s praise. His ability to consistently bowl inswinging yorkers, one of the most challenging deliveries in cricket, left the Indian skipper impressed. For a young bowler, earning recognition from a cricketing legend like Rohit is undoubtedly a career highlight.

This moment also underscores the importance of local talent and the role they ??play in supporting international teams during their training camps. Awais’s performance is a testament to the growing cricketing talent in the UAE, a region that has s??teadily emerged as a hub for the sport.

Rohit’s resurgence: A century to remember

Rohit’s form has been a topic of discussion among cricket enthusiasts. After a lean patch during the Test series against New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Rohit roared back to form with a scintillating century against England in the second ODI of the three-ma??tch series. His 119-run knock, which included 12 fours and 7 sixes, was a masterclass in aggressive yet calculated batting.

This century, his 32nd in O??DIs, not only silenced his critics but also served? as a reminder of his ability to dominate the best bowling attacks in the world. As India prepare for the Champions Trophy, Rohit’s form will be crucial to the team’s success.

India’s Champions Trophy campaign: High hopes and big expectations

India’s campaign in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy kicks off on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With Rohit in charge, the team will aim to replicate their success in previous ICC tournaments. Rohit’s leaders?hip and batting pr?owess were instrumental in India’s strong performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Fans and team management alike will be h??oping that Rohit continues his red-hot for??m and leads India to another ICC trophy. If he can maintain his consistency and inspire his teammates, India will be strong contenders to lift the Champions Trophy, which is making a comeback after an eight-year hiatus.

Also READ: Top 5 wicket-takers in ODI cricket post Champions Trophy 2017 ?ft. Kuldeep ?Yadav

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The Indian cricket team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Amid intense practice sessions and strategic drills, a thrilling direct throw competition at the ICC Academy in Dubai has already set the tone for the team’s camaraderie and competitive spirit. While the spotlight often shines on stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya, it was Rohit Sharma who stole the show.

A decisive throw seals the deal

The Indian team, currently stationed in Dubai, has been rigorously training ahead of the Champions Trophy. On Monday, the?? players engaged in a high-energy direct hit competition, a drill designed to sharpen their fielding skills and foster team spirit. The squad was divided into three teams:

• Team 1: Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, and Washington Sundar
• Team 2: Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, and Virat Kohli
• Team 3: Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, and Ravindra Jadeja

The competition was fierce, with each team vying for suprema??cy. However, it was Rohit’s team that emerged victorious, thanks to a decisive throw from the captain himself. This win not only highlighted Rohit’s leadership but also showcased his ability to deliver under pressure, a trait that will be crucial in the upcoming tournament.

Also READ: Morne Morkel faces personal tragedy ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, leaves India camp and returns to?? South Afri?ca

Rohit Sharma’s resurgence: A man on a mission

Rohit’s recent form has been a topic of discussion among cricket enthusiasts. After a prolonged slump, the Hitman roared back to form with a scintillating century in the IND vs ENG 2nd ODI in Cuttack. This knock was a timely reminder of his class and ability to dominate the opposition. His resurgence couldn’t have come at a better time, as India gear up for the Champions Trophy.

The Indian captain’s performance in the direct throw competition further underscores his determination to lead from the front. With the team still reeling from the heartbreak of the 2023 World Cup final loss to Australia, Rohit’s leadership will be pivotal in inspiring the Men in Blue to rec??laim their glory.

Champions Trophy: A chance for redemption

India’s campaign in the Champions Trophy kicks off on February 20, with a high-stakes clash against Bangladesh. The team will be aiming to clinch their second title, having last won the tournament in 2013 under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. The current squad, led by Rohit, is a blend of e??xperienced campaigners and young talents, all eager to make their mar?k on the global stage.

The direct throw competition victory is a small yet significant step in?? India’s preparation for the tournament. It reflects the team’s focus, unity, and hunger for success. As the Men in Blue continue their training at the ICC Academy, fans will be hoping that this winning momentum carries forward into the Champions Trophy.

Also READ: India’s group-stage rivals: Evaluating Pakistan, New Zea??land &?? Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025

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Team India, led by the charismatic Rohit Sharma, has landed in Dubai to kick off their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to begin on February 19. The first group of players, including stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and head coach Gautam Gambhir, departed from Mumbai on February 15, greeted by a sea of enthusiastic fans. Amid the excitement, it was Rohit’s playful antics at the airport that became the talk of the t?own, showcasing his lighter side even as the team gears up for a high-stakes tournament.

Rohit Sharma’s airport antics: A moment of levity

As the Indian team made their way through the airport security check, Rohit’s quirky sense of humor took centre stage. A viral video captured the Indian skipper engaging in a light-hearted exchange with a security staff member. When the officer carefully examined his passport, Rohit responded by dramatically removing his sunglasses, flashing a cheeky smile that left everyone around him in spli?ts. The moment was a refreshing reminder of Rohit’s ability to keep things light, e??ven in the midst of a busy travel schedule.

This playful interaction not only endeared him further to fans but also highlighted his relaxed demeanour as a leader. Known for his calm and composed approach on and off the field, Rohit’s airport an??tics added a touch of humour to what could have been a routine and mundane process.

Here’s the video:

Rohit Sharma during the photo verification of his passport. 😭 pic.twitter.com/Fh0l2sZlpv

— Aarchi (@Oye_Aarchi) February 16, 2025

Also WATCH: Indian flag’s absence at National Stadium in Karachi spa??rks contr?oversy ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

India’s confidence and challenges ahead in the global event

India enter the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on a high note, fresh off a dominant 3-0 ODI series victory against England. The team’s performance has instilled a strong sense of confidence, but challenges remain. The absence of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah due to injury is a significant blow, and the team will need ??to find a way to fill?? the void left by his lethal bowling.

??Additiona?lly, concerns linger over the recent form of key players like Kohli and Rohit. While both have proven their mettle time and again, their consistency will be crucial for India’s success in the tournament. The team management will be working tirelessly to address these issues and ensure the squad is in peak condition for the battles ahead.

Dubai calling: India’s home away from home

Due to geopolitical tensions, the Indian government did not grant permission for the team to travel to Pakistan, the original host of the tournament. As a result, all of India’s matches will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Men in Blue have been drawn into Group A, alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.

The tournament opener for India is set for February 20 against Bangladesh, followed by the much-ant????icipated clash against Pakistan on February 23. These matches are sure to draw massive attention, with fans eagerly awaiting the high-octane encounters.

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

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