The cricketing world is abuzz with excitement as the much-anticipated India–Pakistan clash in the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches. Scheduled for February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium, the encounter promises to be a spectacle, given the rivalry’s intensity and historical significance. Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, during a discussion on the “Press Room,” hosted by Star Sports, shared his thoughts on this high-voltage fixture and Team India’s prospects.

Suresh Raina’s bold claim on India-Pakistan clash and Virat Kohli

When asked to predict the outcome of the India-Pakistan encounter, Raina diplomatically stated that both teams have an equal chance of winning.  Raina’s belief in Kohli’s ability to deliver in high-pressure games reflects the star batter’s impressive record against Pakistan in ICC events, where his consistency and resilience have often tilted the scales in India’s favor.

“I think India and Pakistan will have a fifty percent chance. Virat Kohli will win it for India and his performance will be magnificent,” Raina said.

Who will have a edge in bowling? Raina shares his perspective

Raina highlighted the strength of Pakistan’s bowling unit, acknowledging it as superior to India’s current setup. He stated that Pakistan’s familiarity with the Dubai conditions, having played extensively in the UAE due to hosting restrictions at home, gives slight advantage to Men in Green

“Pakistan has a better bowling attack. Although both teams have left-arm seamers, the kind of passion Pakistan plays within Dubai, they get the home advantage,” the former Indian cricketer remarked.

Ra??ina also emphasized the crucial role of Indian skipper Rohit Sharma in this encounter. He believed that Rohit’s experience and ability to strategize will be pivotal in overcoming Pakistan, particularly in Dubai, where India faced setbacks in the past, such as the 2021 T20 World Cup loss to Pakistan.

“Pakistan has played a lot of cricket in Dubai, and we have also lost a World Cup game there. But this scenario will be different because Rohit Sharma knows how crucial these matches with Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand are,” Raina concluded.

Also READ: Suresh Raina name??s the player Ind?ia will regret missing in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India’s road to Champions Trophy 2025

Before the marquee tournament, Team India will conclude their final white-ball assignment with a five-match T20I series and a three-match ODI series against England at home. This series will serve as a crucial preparatory phase for India, helping them fine-tune their squad and address any gaps ahead of the Champions Trophy. India will begin their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh, a match that could set the tone for the rest of the tournament. As defending champions, Pakistan will enter the event with the momentum of their 2017 ??triumph, further heightening the stakes for the Dubai showdown.

Also READ: Not India! Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain predict the w??inner of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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The Indian team is under constant scrutiny after their 1-3 series loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. In adverse times, the individual performances of the players has disappointed the team time and again. In such a situation, the cricketing community is constantly demanding that out of form players should shift their focus back to domestic cricket where they can work on their basics again and ?perform for the team.

These demands are not without a cause. Amidst the pomp and luxury of playing international and league cricket, particularly the Indian Premier League (IPL), some star players have left their domestic side far behind. In the light of their recent dreadful performances in international cricket, here is a timeline of when did the top 5 players in the Indian team last play for th??eir domestic side.

Top 5 Team India stars�?last appearance in domestic cricket

1. Virat Kohli:

Time is steadily running out for Virat Kohli, whose performance with the bat is going from bat to worse. His record in Test cricket has been particularly concerning with just 417 runs in 19 innings with a meagre batting average of 24.52. Thus, there is a growing demand that the former Indian skipper should play for Delhi in the upcoming Ranji Trophy season. The 36-year-old last featured for Delhi during the 2012 season of the Ranji Trophy in Group D match against Saurashtra.

2. Rohit Sharma:

Rohit Sharma is another star Indian player who recently had a horror-show with the bat. The 37-year-old scored a total of 619 runs in 24 innings with a batting average of an abysmal 24.76. Additionally, Rohit scored just 31 runs in 5 innings during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy which added more concerns over his batting form. While Rohit was recently seen attending practice with his domestic side, Bombay, he has not featured in a domestic cricket match since November 2015. Rohit’s last match for Bombay was against Uttar Pradesh in the Group B of the Ranji Trophy where he played a remarkable kn??ock of 113 runs.

Also Read: BCCI issues stringent gu?idelines for Indian players, warns of disciplinary action for non-co??mpliance

3. Ravindra Jadeja:

Ravindra Jadeja’s tour to Australia too has not gone up to the mark, much like the rest of the team. The all-rounder struggled with the bat and failed to leave a mark throughout the series with the bowl as well. In such a situation, Jadeja needs to focus back on putting on performances for his domestic side, Saurashtra and return to the Indian squad with an improved form. The seasoned Indian all-rounder played his last domestic match against Tamil Nadu in November 2023.

4. Shubman Gill:

With just 93 runs in 5 innings during the BGT 2024-25, Shubman Gill disappointed fans and analysts alike with the bat. The youngster hasn’t performed for India in recent times sparking a huge uproar and questions over his repeated selection in the national squad. Gill has recently joined the practice sessions of his domestic side, Punjab. The 25-year-old last represented them in the Ranji Trophy quarter-final clash against Madhya Pradesh in January 2022 and has not? featured for Punjab since.

5. KL Rahul:

Apart from the heroics in Brisbane, KL Rahul could not save the Indian batting unit from putting up a disappointing display in their recent trip to Australia. Rahul has not been consistent with the bat for some time now, and has failed as a top-order batter to stabilize the Indian innings and convert the built momentum in a long innings. Thus there is a growing demand that he needs to focus on domestic cricket and work on regaining international cricket level temperament. Rahul has not played for his domestic side, Karnataka since March 2020. His last appearance in the domestic team was during the Ranji Trophy semi-finals against Bengal in w??hich Karnataka suffered a defeat by 174 runs.

Also Read: KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, or Sanju Sam??son? Who should be India’s wicketkeeper-batter for Cham??pions Trophy 2025

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Virat Kohli is known for having a particular kind of temper. The former Indian skipper has not been shy of showing his frustrations and temper both on and off the pitch. Something of a similar sort happened while Kohli was encircled by fans and paparazzi near Gateway of India reportedly going to his newly built residence at Alibaug.

Virat Kohli’s encounter with the crowd didn’t go well

The incident happened as Kohli tried to clear his path off to reach the boat which was reportedly set to take the former Indian skipper to his home in Alibaug. Kohli can be seen telling the crowd and journalists encircl?ing him to give way, but the crowd kept clicking photos of the 36-year-old.

Just then, a young man can be seen approaching Kohli attempting to take a selfie. Kohli, visibly frustrated with the unnecessary attention grabbed his ?chest and gave him a slight push to send him back into the crowd and clear his way forward.

In the video, the Indian top-order batter can be seen telling people to neither click photos of him nor block his path deliberately. However, the tussle between the crowd and him became ??inevitable at a point.

Also Read: Devdutt Padikkal breaks ??Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli’s record in List A cricket

Here’s the video

A recent video of Virat Kohli shows him saying 'Don't block my way' and even pushing someone. Such attitude and arrogance no wonder no ex cricketer respects him.

This is the same guy who attended Premanand Maharaj event just for cameras and PR, learning nothing from it. pic.twitter.com/61GfN4w13C

— 𝐉𝐨𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐞 (@jod_insane) January 15, 2025

Virat Kohli’s lavish house at Alibaug

In 2022, Virat Kohli acquired a 2,000 sq. ft. villa in the serene locale of Alibaug for INR 19 crore, with a stamp duty of INR 36 lakhs. Fast forward to the completion of his dream project, now valued at an impressive INR 32 crore, featuring a 400 sq. ft. swimming pool. This exquisite property is nestled within Awas Living, an upscale gated community in Alibaug, offering a select number of villas, a wellness centre, and a spa. Designed in the sophisticated Californian Konkan style, the villa is bathed in natural light. The Avas Wellness project, in collaboration with the renowned South African architecture firm SAOTA and designer Sussanne Khan, consists of 16 fully-furnished villas, each ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 sq. ft. Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma envision this property as their perfect family getaway. Recent reports indicate that the couple is gearing up for a grand housewarming celebration to mark the completion o??f their luxurious new home.

Also Read: “If he didn’t like anyone…�? Robin Utha??ppa reveals Virat Kohli’s personal ??bias in Ambati Rayudu’s 2019 World Cup omission

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Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma have been making frequent visits to Alibaug from the past few days, sparking curiosity among fans and media alike. Reports now confirm that the couple’s house, which has be?en under construction in the serene coastal town, is finally complete.

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s Alibaug property

Preparations for a Griha Pravesh (housewarming) ceremony are reportedly underway, marking the couple’s new milestone. Multiple videos shared by a paparazzi on social media showcased glimpses of the ongoing arrangements at the property. Speculations suggest this Alibaug residence will either serve as their primary home or a luxurious holiday retreat, replacing their current Mumbai address in Worli’s Omkar 1973. This stunning addition to their real estate portfolio reflects their love for peaceful retreats away from the city’s hustle.

Alibaug Villa: A harmonious sanctuary

1. Architectural Brilliance by SAOTA
The villa was designed by the globally renowned architectural firm Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects (SAOTA), under the leadership of Phillippe Fouché. Known for blending modernism with nature, the firm ensured the villa embodies biophilic principles and a se??amless indoor-outdoor connection.

2. California-Konkani Style Exterior

The four-bedroom villa showcases a California-Konkani design, featuring clean lines, expansive glass walls, and a natural stone faça?de. This ?unique architectural style enhances its integration with the lush Alibaug landscape.

3. Luxurious Interiors

The inte??riors, curated by Sussanne Khan, boast Italian marble, Turkish limestone, and pristine stones. Neutral tones are complemented by vibrant accents, creating a perfect balance of contemporary and vintage aesthetics.

4. Expansive Living Spaces

Spanning 10,000 square feet, the villa includes a bespoke kitchen, four bathrooms, and a spacious living area. The décor reflects understated elegance with a focus on? functionality and comfort.

5. State-of-the-Art Amenities

The villa features a temperature-controlled pool, jacuzzi, s??tate-of-the-art gym, and dedicated recreation spaces. These though??tful additions align with the couple’s focus on health and wellness.

Also READ: Lesser-known facts about Virat Kohli’s celebrity wife Anushk?a Sharma

6. Picturesque Garden and Outdoor Dining

The sprawling landscaped garden includes an al fresco dining area, offering a serene retreat. The lush greenery provides a tranquil ba??ckdrop, blurring the line b?etween luxury and nature.

7. Prime Location in Alibaug
Situat?ed just 19 km distance from Mandwa Jetty, the villa offers easy access to Mumbai while providing a peaceful escape f??rom urban life. Its location adds to the exclusivity and charm of the retreat.

8. Price and Investment
The couple purchased the 8-acre plot for INR 19 crore in 2022 and invested INR 13 crore in construction. The total cost? of INR 32 crore reflects the grandeur and opulence of the property.

9. Eco-Friendly Design

With natural light streaming? through large windows and sustainab??le landscaping, the villa prioritizes environmental harmony while maintaining a luxurious appeal.

10. A Weekend Haven

Primarily used as a weekend retreat, the villa is a perfect escape for Kohli and Anushka from their busy lives, embodying their tas?te for sophisticated, mindful living.

Also READ: Photos: Check out Yashasvi Jaiswal’s lavish and European-style a???partment in Mumbai

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In the world of cricket, team dynamics and selection processes often generate intense discussions and controversies. One such incident that has resurfaced is the shocking exclusion of Ambati Rayudu from India’s 2019 ODI World Cup squad.

Former cricketer Robin Uthappa has reignited this debate, suggesting that the decision was influenced by Virat Kohli’s personal preferences rather than purely cricketing reasons. This revelation not only sheds light on the complexiti?es of team select??ion but also raises questions about leadership styles in sports.

The controversial omission of Ambati Rayudu

Rayudu, who had been a reliable performer leading up to the World Cup, was unexpectedly dropped from the final squad just before the tournament began. He had participated in ten ODIs prior to the World Cup, making his exclusion all the more perplexing. Uthappa stated that Kohli’s personal feelings towards players played a significant role in selection decisions, indicating that if Kohli did not favour a player, they were likely to be cut from the team.

” If he (Virat Kohli) didn’t like anyone, he didn’t feel someone is good, then they were cut. (Ambati) Rayudu is the prime example,” Uthap?pa said in an interview with Lallantop, expressing his discontent over how Rayudu was treated at such a crucial juncture of his career.

Also READ: RCB head coach provides update on Virat Kohli’s potential le??adership in IPL 2025

Virat Kohli left a player in limbo

Uthappa’s comments highlight a broader issue within team sports: the emotional toll on players who are left on the brink of selection only to be discarded at the last minute. Rayudu had prepared for the World Cup, with his gear and kit ready at home, believing he would represent India on cricket’s biggest stage.

Uthappa lamented this situation, adding, “You feel bad. Everybody has preferences, I agree but you cannot close the door on a player after taking him to the cusp. He had World Cup clothes, World Cup kit bag, everything was there at his home. A player would be thinking that he is going to the World Cup. But you shut the door on him.”

Repercussions beyond selection

The fallout from Rayudu’s exclusion extended beyond just one player’s disappointment. It sparked widespread debate about selection policies and transparency within the Indian cricketing system. Following his omission, Rayudu expressed his frustration publicly and even hinted at issues with then-chief selector MSK Prasad. Prasad mainta??ined that selections were made collectively b??ut acknowledged that Kohli had input in these decisions.

Moreover, Uthappa’s comments also touch upon another controversial topic: how Kohli’s treatment of players like Yuvraj Singh affected their careers. Uthappa claimed that Kohli’s influence contributed to Yuvraj’s premature exit from international cricket after his battle with cancer, suggesting a pattern of favouritism that could undermine team morale and cohesion.

Also READ: Robin Uthappa gives controversial statement on Virat Kohli regarding Yuvraj Singh’s?? international career

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In the wake of Faf du Plessis’ departure from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad, fans are eagerly speculating about who will take charge of the team in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Faf, who had captained RCB for the past three seasons, was bought by Delhi Capitals in the 2025 IPL mega auction, leaving a significant leadership gap in the squad. The top contender for the role has been none other than Virat Kohli, who had previously le??d RCB with d??istinction in past seasons.

RCB head coach’s response to the leadership speculations

RCB head coach Andy Flower addressed the ongoing speculation about the team’s new captain. While Flower acknowledged the mounting curiosity, he emphasized that a decision had not yet been made he conveyed that it’s the beginning of a new three-year cycle, emphasizing the need for patience as the outcome unfolds, while suggesting the anticipation will be exciting.

“Well, you’re going to have to wait for the outcome. It’s a new era that we are going into, start of a three-year cycle, and I’m sure the anticipation will be good for you,�?/em> Flower said in an interview with Sports Tak.

He further stated that discussions about the team’s captaincy have not yet taken place, despite repeated inquiries. �?em>You can ask me as often as you like, but that communication has not happened yet,�?Flower added.

Also READ: Breakdown of Yuzvendra Chahal’s IPL s?alary sinc??e debut

RCB’s captaincy options

While Kohli is widely regarded as a suitable candidate for the captaincy, given his vast experience and past leadership record, RCB has several other seasoned players who could step up. The squad boasts players like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya, both of wh?om have considerable experience as captains in domestic cricket, particularly in the shorter format.

Another viable option could be Phil Salt, who has previous??ly captained the England T20I side. With such a rich pool of leadership talent within the team, RCB has a variety of options to consider as they look to build a competitive squad for IPL 2025.

Also READ: Breakdown of Martin Guptill’s IPL? salary since debut

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After a string of underwhelming performances during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 in Australia, Virat Kohli, along with his wife Anushka Sharma and their two children, Vamika and Akaay, sought solace in spirituality.

Virat Kohli visits Vrindavan’s alongside Anushka Sharma to meet Shri Premanand Maharaj 

The couple was recently spotted visiting Vrindavan, where they met Shri Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj. A viral video on social media captured Kohli and Anushka seated with their children on their laps, engaging in an intimate convers??ation with the spiritual leader. While their children’s faces were blurred for priva??cy, the video highlighted a serene moment for the family amidst the challenges of Kohli’s cricketing career.

Shri Premanand Maharaj offered words of wisdom to the family, lauding Kohli for the joy he has brought to Indian cricket fans over the ye?ars. He emphasized the transient nature of success and failure, advising the cricketer to embrace life’s highs and lows with equal grace. Ma??haraj’s counsel came as a reminder for Kohli to maintain a balanced outlook, even during testing times, and to focus on spreading happiness and positivity through his endeavors.

Here’s the video:

Virat Kohli और Anushka Sharma की पूज्�?महाराज जी से क्या वार्ता हु�?? Bhajan Marg pic.twitter.com/WyKxChE8mC

— Bhajan Marg (@RadhaKeliKunj) January 10, 2025

A struggling Border-Gavaskar series and controversies on the field

Kohli’s visit to Vrindavan could have been prompted by a challenging run in the Test series against Australia, which cast doubts over his future in the longest format of the game. Despite beginning the series with a significant milestone – becoming the batter with the most Test hundreds on Australian soil, scoring his seventh century in Perth – his form deteriorated as the series progressed. Following his unbeaten century in the opening match, Kohli managed just 85 runs across the remaining seven innings of the five-match series, accumulating a total of 190 runs at a disappointing average of 23.75.

This performance came after another lackluster outing against New Zealand in the preceding home series, where Kohli had scored only 93 runs in three matches. The lean patch has sparked widespread discussions about Kohli’s longevity in Test?? cricket, especially as the former ski?pper approaches the twilight of his career at 36.

Adding to the scrutiny, Kohli’s on-field conduct during the series drew criticism. During the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Kohli was involved in an altercation with Australian player Sam Konstas, shoulder-bumping him in an incident that led to an ICC sanction. Furthermore, Kohli attempted to provoke the Australian crowd with a sandpaper gesture, referencing the infamous ball-tampering scandal of 2018. These antics, while characteristic of Kohli’s combative spirit, were viewed by som?e as unnecessary distractions from his primary role as a senior batter in the team.

Also READ: Vi??rat Kohli to open? Andy Flower drops hints about RCB’s batting order for the IPL 2025

Looking Ahead: Redemption in England

Kohli’s next challenge lies in the Test series against England, scheduled for June-July 2025. Reports suggest that he may participate in county cricket to acclimatize to English conditions, a move that could help him regain his form. However, this plan is contingent on the outcome of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, as Kohli’s franchise’s progress to the final could affect his availability for county gam??es. With the England series looming, Kohli has an opportunity to prove his critics wrong and demonstrate his enduring value to Indian cricket. His dedication to preparation and his track record of bouncing back from setbacks make him a player to watch in the months ahead.

Spiritual journey: A lifeline in challenging times

Kohli’s foray into spirituality has become an integral part of his life, particularly since his marriage to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in December 2017. The couple’s shared inclination toward spiritual practices has been evident in their frequent visits to ashrams, temples, and spiritual leaders. Notably, in 2022, Kohli and Anushka visited the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram in Kainchi Dham during another rough patch in his career. Following that visit, Kohli experienced a resurgence in form, ?scoring heavily across formats and silencing his detractors.

Anushka’s influence on Kohli’s spi??ritual growth cannot be understated. Known for her own deep faith, she has been a pillar of support for Kohli, encouraging him to seek inner peace and perspective amid the pressures of a high-profile career. The couple’s visits to spiritual places, both in India and abroad, reflect their commitment to maintaining mental and emotional well-being, which has become a cornerstone of their lives together.

Also READ: Simon Katich lambasts Virat Kohli for his on-field antics during the B?GT 2024-25

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Yuvraj Singh has been one of the most remarkable servants of Indian cricket. The celebrated all-rounder played a pivotal role in India’s triumphant ODI World Cup 2011 campaign, etching his name into the annals of cricketing histor??y.

Yuvraj Singh’s glorious international career for India 

Renowned for his explosive batting and exceptional skills with the ball, Yuvraj was among the finest white-ball cricketers India has ever produced. With 8701 runs for India in the ODI format in a career which for a little more than a decade, Yuvraj has scored runs with a batting average of 36.5 and made 14 centuries for the national side. However, his illu??strious career wasn’t without its share of setbacks. While fans fondly remember his heroic performances, many are disheartened by the circumstances surrounding his retirement from international cricket. The abrupt end to Yuvraj’s career left many unanswered questions, sparking debates among cricket enthusiasts.

Years after his farewell to the game, former teammate Robin Uthappa has now unveiled some shocking details about the events that led to the legendary cricketer’s retirement. These revelations shed light on the behind-the-scenes struggles Yuvraj endured, offering fans a deeper understanding of the challenges he faced during the twilight of his career.

Robin Uthappa accused Virat Kohli

Former Indian cricketer Uthappa had shared the Indian dressing room during some of the most joyous occasions in Indian cricket. Both former players were part of the squad which won the 2007 T20 World Cup held in South Africa and played for the national side during the same time period. The former cricketer has closely seen Yuvraj’s career and has now shared some insights on the circumstances which developed at the end of his decade long run in international cricket.

“Virat wanted players to reach his level in fitness, eating habits, listening and agreeing. It is tough to match as everyone is different,” Uthappa said during a recent discussion with The Lallantop.

Additionally, Uthappa pointed out that Yuvraj had requested for a reduction in the fitness test by two points but then captain of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli did not pay heed to the l??egendary world cu??p winner.

“Yuvi Pa defeated cancer. He won us two World Cups. When you become captain, you talk about his diminished lung capacity. You have seen his struggles and there was a need to back him and give him some time to get back. Yuvraj deserved some exceptions because he defeated cancer and won tournaments in the past,�?the former Indian batter added.

Uthappa also questioned Kohli’s leadership and highlighted the kind of skipper Kohli was during his tenure as the captain of the team.
“I haven’t played under his captaincy a lot. He is a ‘my way or the highway�?kind of a skipper,” Uthappa concluded.

Uthappa has played a total of 46 ODI matches for the Indian team and made 936 runs in his career. Besides that, the 39-year-old had a coveted career in first-class cricket and has also featured for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Also Read: Cricket South Africa responds to sports minister’s ?call for Afghanistan boycott in Champions Trophy 2025

Lack of opportunities for Yuvraj 

Yuvraj made a comeback from cancer in December 2012 but was not included in the Indian team for the Champions Trophy 2013. Since then he featured in just 30 ODI matches for Indian before announcing his retirement from all forms of international cricket in June 2019. According to Yuvraj, he was ‘sick of not getting opportunities�?and wanted to help people affected from cancer. However, Yuvraj continued playing white-ball cricket for his domestic side, Punjab and featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 2019 season. Recently, Yuvraj was the skipper of the India champs squad in the World Championship of Legends which defeated Pakistan Champs in the final at Birmingham ??to win the prestigious?? tournament.

Also Read: Sunil Gavaskar names the next captain ??of Indian team after Rohit Sharma

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