West Indies power-hitter Andre Russell has shattered rec??ords by becoming the fastest player to reach 9,000 runs in T20 cricket, achieving the milestone in just 5,321 balls.

Representing Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the ILT20 2025, Russell surpassed Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell (5,915 balls) to claim the top spot. The Jamaican all-rounder recorded the feat by smashing Gulf Giants’ pacer Tom Curran for a boundary during his short stay at the c??rease.

Russell’s aggressive batting style and unmatched power-hitting have made him one of the most feared T20 cricketers globally. The milestone further cements his reputation as a game-changer, capable of turning matches single-handedly.

Top five players to reach 9,000 T20 runs (by balls faced) are:

1. Andre Russell (West Indies) – 5,321 balls
2. Glenn Maxwell (Australia) – 5,915 balls
3. AB de Villiers (South Africa) – 5,985 balls
4. Kieron Pollard (West Indies) – 5,988 balls
5. Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 6,007 balls

Russell’s achievement is particularly remarkable given his?? role as a finisher, often facing fewer deliveries compared to top-order batters. His strike rate, power-hitting ability and? consistency have been instrumental in reaching this landmark faster than any other player in history.

Also READ: Wanindu Hasaranga – Fastest to take 300 wickets in T20 cricket

Andre Russell’s batting performance in T20 cricket:

Across 53??6 matches and 463 innings, Dre Russ has amassed an impressive 9,004 runs, with a highest score of? 121 not out.

Despite often batting in the middle and lower order, Russell maintains a bat?ting average of 26.79, showing his ability to contribute crucial runs consistently. His strike rate of 169.15 highlights his aggressive approach, making him one of the most fear??ed finishers in the game.

He has faced 5,323 balls in his career and smashed his way to 2 centuries and 31 half-centuries. His boundary-hitting ability is extraordinary, with 593 fours and a staggering 733 sixes, underlining his? dominance as a power-hitter.

Known for finishing games in style, Russell has remained not out 127 times, often guiding his team to victory in pressure situations. ??His aggressive approach and abilit?y to clear the ropes make him one of the most impactful T20 cricketers of all time.

Also READ: Top 5 fastest centur?ies in Test cricket on debut ft. Josh Inglis

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Kieron Pollard is known for his explosive batting and handy bowling skills in white-ball cricket. However, the cricketing world got a glimpse of how good the Caribbean player is on the field as he displayed exceptional skills white performing his duties on the boundary line. Pollard’s flying catch sent Abu Dhabi Knight Riders fiery batter Andre Russell back to the pavilion thus giving a crucial breakthrough to MI Emirates.

Kieron Pollards exceptional fielding skills keep MI Emirates hopes alive

The incident took place during the 19th over of the game as Knight Riders were heading towards a gigantic total against Emirates. A short-pitch ball from Alzarri Joseph was pulled away by Russell with the intent to hit a maximum. However, the ball was too close to the body of the Knight Riders�power-hitter and didn’t get the momentum Rus??sell expected.

The ball kept sailing towards the long off area where Pollard was deployed. The 37-year-old dived in front to take a remarkable catch at a time when the ball was expected to land a few metres before his position. The catch sent Russell back to the pavilion who hit a maximum on the very first delivery of his innings and was looking in fine form. Russell scored 6 runs and played just 2 balls in his sho?rt-lived innings.

Here’s the video: 

KIERON POLLARD, TAKE A BOW! 🫡

Russell goes big with a maximum, but the very next ball finds Pollard’s safe hands! 🙌#MIEvADKR #DPWorldILT20 #AllInForCricket #EnterTheEpic @DPWorldUAE @DP_World @ilt20onzee @MIEmirates pic.twitter.com/xxagEwAI13

— International League T20 (@ILT20Official) January 24, 2025

Also WATCH: Mohammad Amir does a Pus?hpa celebrati??on after dismissing Rohan Mustafa in ILT20 2025

Emirates falls short of the target 

Even though Russell could not score big runs for his franchise in the International League T20 (ILT20), the Knight Riders did manage to put together a competitive total of 182/7 in their 20 overs. An emphatic display of power-hitting from Jason Holder in which he scored 22 off 7 balls and a 55-run knock from Alishan Sharafu enabled the home side to reach this total.

In res??ponse, the Emirates batters could not give ample support to Pollard from the other end whose 69-run knock off 49 balls was the standout performance for the visitors. Despite his heroics on the field and a brave stand against Knight Riders�bowling unit, the Emirates could only score 140/6 in their 20 overs and fell short of the target by 42 runs. With 3 wins in the tournament so far, both sides are now level on points although Emirates have a slight advantage over Knight Riders on net run rate.

Also WATCH: Fazalhaq Farooqi sends David Willey packing with a ?b??lazing yorker in the ILT20 2025

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In a thrilling moment during the 12th match of the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Gerhard Erasmus and Ibrahim Zadran pulled off a jaw-dropping joint effort to dismiss Andre Russell. The spectacular catch became the highlight of the? Gulf Giants�dominant performance against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

Andre Russell falls to an incredible team effort

The breathtaking dismissal occurred in the 15th over of the Knight Riders�innings. Facing left-arm spinner Aayan Afzal Khan, Russell looked to launch a full delivery into the stands with a powerful slog. The ball soared high, traveling almost beyond long-on, but Erasmus, stationed near the boundary rope, leaped to pluck it out of the air with one hand. Realizing he was losing balance and about to cross the boundary, Erasmus flung the ball mid-air to Zadran, who sprinted in from deep mid-wicket to complete the ca?tch. The dismissal not only showcased exceptional athleticism but also highlighted flawless coordination between the two fielders.

Here is the video:

A Giant effort to get rid of Andre the Giant! 🫡

Erasmus, what have you done here? Russell cannot believe it, and neither can we 😱 #ILT20onZee #T20HeroesKaJalwa #DPWorldILT20 #GGvADKR pic.twitter.com/rBstQp1brN

— Zee Cricket (@ilt20onzee) January 19, 2025

Also WATCH: Waqar Salamkheil cleans up Alex Hales with a peach of a ??delivery in the ILT20 2025

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders post a decent total

Despite a solid start, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders could only manage 176/9 in their 20 overs. Michael-Kyle Pepper anchored the innings with a quickf??ire 57 off 35 balls, but the team struggled to maintain momentum after his? dismissal.

Aayan emerged as the star bowler for the Gulf Giants, delivering a stunning spell of 4/16 to dismantle the Knight Riders’ middle order. His accurate and disciplined bowling, coupled with the fielding brilliance of Erasmus and Zadran, kept the scoring in check during the latter half of the innings.

Also READ: Bollywood actor Sha??hid Kapoor names his favourite tea??m and player in the ILT20

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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 champions, made significant strides in the IPL 2025 mega auction, focusing on retaining key players from their ??title-winning squad and bringing in promising talent to bolster their team.

KKR’s leadership dilemma ahead of IPL 2025

The franchise’s aggressive brand of cricket last season, characterized by powerful batting and strategic play, has been reinforced by the additions of Quinton de Kock and Rovman Powell as well as the return of young talent Angkrish Raghuvanshi for INR 3 crores.

However, a crucial challenge lies ahead for KKR – finding a suitable captain to lead the team after Shreyas Iyer’s departure. Iyer, who played a pivotal role as captain in IPL 2024, has moved to Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the upcoming season, leaving a significant gap in KKR’s leadership structure. The team now faces the task of selecting a leader who can maintain the momentum from the??ir championship-winning season and steer them toward further success.

IPL 2025: 3 players who can captain Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) 

1. Venkatesh Iyer – The frontrunner for leadership

Background and current status
Venkatesh Iyer is the standout candidate for the KKR captaincy following his acquisition for a substantial INR 23.75 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction. This investment makes him the third-most expensive player at the event, underscoring KKR’s commitment to him as a vital part of their future plans. His previous experience vice captaining the team in 2023, when Nitish Rana was sidelined due to injury, adds weig??ht to his candidacy. Iyer’s all-around capabilities and familiarity with KKRâ€??™s culture make him a logical choice to step into the leadership role.

Strengths and leadership qualities
Venkatesh Iyer is not just a powerful all-rounder but also a seasoned player who has delivered consistently for KKR over the past seasons. His natural leadership ability was on display when he filled in as vice captain when Nitish got injured in 2024, where he showed confidence and composure under pressu?re. As an impactful all-r??ounder, Iyer brings both batting and bowling prowess that can greatly benefit the team. His fearless approach to cricket, combined with a calm demeanor, makes him capable of inspiring and managing the team effectively.

Challenges and considerations
While Venkatesh Iyer has shown readiness and promise, the pressure of being a full-time captain c??an be daunting. The weight of exp?ectations, especially after his hefty price tag, could potentially affect his performance. Moreover, maintaining fitness and consistency will be crucial for Iyer to lead KKR successfully through an entire season.

Also READ: Kolkata Knight Riders IPL 202??5 S??quad: Complete players list of KKR after the mega auction

2. Rinku Singh – The silent force

Background and rise to prominence
Rinku Singh, who has been with KKR since 2018, emerged as one of the most reliable performers for the franchise, especially in the 2023 season when he scored 474 runs. Known for hi??s resilience and composure, Rinku has proven to be an effective middle-order batter capable of finishing matches under pressure. His loyalty to KKR and consistent performances make him an appealing choice for leadership, even if he lacks extensive captaincy experience.

Strengths and leadership potential
Rinku’s strengths lie in his calm under pressure and ability to deliver when it matters most. His innings in high-stress scenarios have shown that he can keep a cool head, a crucial trait for any leader. Additionally, Rinku’s experience playing for India in limited-overs cricket has exposed him to high-level competition, enhancing his tactical understanding and cricketing acumen. His connection with the franchise, combined with his unwavering dedication, makes him a player KKR could rely on to captain the team with a focus on unity and team spirit.

Challenges and considerations
The primary concern with Rinku Singh as captain would be his relative inexperience in a leadership role. Although he has exhibited poise in clutch situations, leading a high-profile team like KKR requires a deeper understanding of team dynamics, strategy, and decision-making that only comes with more experience. Additionally, step?pin??g into the captaincy role could place extra pressure on Rinku to perform, impacting his natural game.

3. Andre Russell – The experienced game-changer

Background and legacy
Andre Russell has been a central figure for KKR over the years, known for his explosive?? batting and match-winning a??ll-round performances. His immense impact in the IPL, particularly his ability to change the course of games single-handedly, makes him a compelling candidate for captaincy. While Russell has not held a formal captaincy role for KKR, his leadership in high-stakes situations and influence on the team’s morale cannot be underestimated.

Strengths and leadership attributes
Russell’s powerful ??presence on and off the field is a testament to his leadership qualities. He has the respect of his teammates, who often look up to him for inspiration, especially in crucial matches. His charisma and confidence can help energize the team and motivate them to push beyond their limits. As someone who has been through ups and downs with KKR, Russell has developed a deep understanding of the franchise’s ethos, making him a leader who can rally the team together in tough times.

Challenges and considerations
The primary challenge for Russell as a captain would be his injury?-prone nature. Given his history of physical setbacks, relying on him for a full season as the leader might be risky for KKR. The franchise would need to assess his fitness levels and long-term availability carefully before making him the captain. Additionally, Russell’s style of play is often aggressive and unpredictable, which, while exciting,?? may not always align with the calm and strategic approach required for captaincy.

Another key candidate: Who will lead KKR?

KKR has several strong candidates to choose from as they look to fill the leadership void left by Shreyas’ departure. Venkatesh proven track record and leadership experience make him the most likely choice, though the franchise must weigh the pressure that comes with his record-breaking price tag. Rinku offers loyalty, composure, and an emerging maturity that could serve KKR well in the long run. Meanwhile, Russell, with his vast experience and game-changing abilities, stands as a dark horse, albeit with concerns over fitness and consistency.

Ajinkya Rahane is also a strong candidate for the KKR captaincy in IPL 2025. Having previously been part of the squad in 2022, he brings a wealth o??f experience and a steady leadership style. Rahane’s calm and strategic approach could provide the team with much-needed composure, especially in high-pressure situations.

Also READ: CEO Venky Mysore opens up on ??the prospect of Ajinkya Rahane leading ??KKR in IPL 2025

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The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have built an impressive squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, combining seasoned stars with promising talent to strengthen their title aspirations. The franchise made strategic moves during the mega auction, assembling a well-rounded team poised to compete at the ?highest level.

Kolkata Knight Riders IPL 2025 Squad:

• Rinku Singh: The fan-favorite retained for his match-winning ability and consistency in the middle order.
• Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Dynamic wicketkeeper-batters offering explosive starts at the top.
• Angkrish Raghuvanshi: A young talent to watch, capable of making significant contributions in key moments.
• Venkatesh Iyer: The all-rounder, retained during the mega auction, remains a crucial part of KKR’s core. He is a proven match-winner and can contribute with both bat and ball.
• Ramandeep Singh: A dependable domestic player adding depth to the squad.
• Andre Russell: The powerhouse all-rounder returns as the team’s trump card in both departments.
• Anrich Nortje: The fiery South African pacer enhances KKR’s bowling arsenal with his speed and precision.
• Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora: Promising bowlers providing pace options for the team.
• Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy: The spin duo known for their wicket-taking ability and economy in the middle overs.
• Mayank Markhande: A skilled leg-spinner adding versatility to KKR’s bowling attack.
• Rovman Powell: A big-hitting middle-order batter capable of turning games single-handedly.
• Manish Pandey: The experienced batter brings stability and composure to the batting lineup.
• Spencer Johnson: An exciting pace-bowling prospect with the potential to shine on big stages.
• Luvnith Sisodia: A young wicketkeeper-batter offering a backup option.
• Ajinkya Rahane: The veteran batter adds leadership and adaptability to KKR’s top order.
• Anukul Roy: A reliable all-rounder offering both batting depth and spin options.
• Moeen Ali: The English all-rounder brings experience and flair, contributing with both bat and ball.
• Umran Malik: The pace sensation known for his raw speed, a valuable addition to KKR’s bowling lineup.

Also READ: Lucknow Super Giants IPL 2025 Squad – Complete players list of LSG after the mega auction

A promising squad

With a mix of experienced campaigners like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Moeen Ali and Ajinkya Rahane, alongside emerging stars such as Rinku Singh and Umran Malik, KKR have put together a squad capable of dominating the 2025 IPL season. Their balanced team composition ensures depth in both batting and bowling, raising fans’ hopes for a strong title challenge.

KKR supporters eagerly await the season, r?eady to cheer their team as they aim for IPL glory.

Also READ: CEO Venky Mysore opens up on the pro?spect of Ajinkya Rahane leading KKR in IPL 2025

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As the West Indies prepare for the decisive final leg of their five-match T20I series against England, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has made two crucial changes to the squad. With the series at stake, the team faces challenges after suffering two consecutive losses in Barbados, leaving them ??trailing 0-2.

Cricket West Indies announce Andre Russell’s replacement

In hopes of turning the tide in their favour, CWI announced the replacement of all-rounder Andre Russell and the r??eturn of pacer Alzarri Joseph fo??r the upcoming games in Saint Lucia.

Russell, a key all-rounder for West Indies, has been ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a left ankle sprain he sustained in the opening T20I at the Kensington Oval. Russell’s absence is a significant blow for the team as he brings both batting firepower and valuable experience to the middle order. Stepping in for Russell is Shamar Springer, an all-ro??under who recently played two T20I matches against?? Sri Lanka and will aim to make an impact on his return to the squad.

In addition to this change, fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, who missed the first two games due to a suspension, is set to rejoin the team. Joseph will replace Shamar Joseph and bolster the bowling attack, which struggled to contain England batters in the first two matches. Joseph’s return is expected to provide the pace and wicket-taking ability the West Indies need to challenge England’s strong batting lineup.

West Indies looking for a comeback in the 5-match series against England

The West Indies?? will need a determined comeback effort after England won the opening T20I by 8 wickets, followed by a convincing 7-wicket victory in the second game. Both matches took place over the past weekend, with England showing their dominance and taking full control of the series. The final three matches are scheduled to be played at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground in Saint Lucia, where West Indies will rely on the support of their home crowd as they fight to keep the series alive.

Also READ: Jos Buttler shines on comeback, ?steers ??England to an emphatic win over West Indies in 2nd T20I

For the West Indies, the remaining matches provide a critical opportunity to rebuild momentum and seek redemption. With Rovman Powell leading the squad, they will look to lean on the experience of players like Nicholas Pooran, Evin Lewis and Brandon King to produce the runs needed to put England u??nder pressure. The addition of Springer brings depth to the all-rounder options, while the return of Jose?ph strengthens their bowling, especially in key middle and death overs where the team needs tighter control and breakthroughs.

West Indies’ T20I squad for remaining series against England

Rovman Powell (c), Brandon Kin??g, Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Terrance Hinds, Shai Hop?e, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Shamar Springer

Also? READ: 3 teams that can target Romario Shepherd in the IPL 2025 mega a?uction

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After a 2-1 win in the ODI series, West Indies enter the T20I series against England with renewed confidence. The first two T20Is of the five-match series are set to be played at t?he iconic Kensington?? Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados.

West Indies hope to capitalize on their recent form. The team has fielded a balanced squad rich with explosive batting talent and vers?atile bowlers, poised to challenge England once again.

West Indiesâ€?squad boasts a mix of powerful hitters and sharp pacers, each capable of turning the game in their favour. Brandon King, who starred as one of the top scorers in the ODI series against England, will look to carry forward his momentum. Another emerging player to watch is the 22-year-old Matthew Forde, who was named Player of the Series in the ODIs. Both players, along with the team’s seasoned all-rounders and batters, could make a significant impact in the upcoming T20I series.

Also READ: Andre Russell, Nicholas Poora??n ??return to West Indies squad for first two T20Is against England

West Indies’ best starting XI for the first two T20Is against England

1. Rovman Powell (Captain)

Powell, the West Indies captain, has grown into a key middle-order batter and team leader. Known for his aggressive play and strategic mindset, Powell’s ability to counter England’s bowling attack early in the innings makes him a crucial figure. His form and bold approach can set the tone for West Indiesâ€?batting.

2. Brandon King (Opener)

King w??ill likely open the innings, bringing his skilful str??oke play and ability to tackle both pace and spin effectively. King’s explosive starts can provide the platform for a competitive total, making him a vital part of the team’s game plan.

3. Evin Lewis (Opener)

A proven performer in the T20 format, Lewis brings adaptability to the top order. His ability to rotate strikes and build partnerships allows Caribbean’s to maintain stability, while his power-hitting prowess can accelerate the innings when needed.

4. Sherfane Rutherford (Middle-Order Batter)

Rutherford adds depth to the middle order with ??his finishing skills and game awareness. Known for his ability to handle high-pressure situations, Rutherford’s smart shot selection can prove invaluable, especially in the death overs.

5. Shai Hope (Middle-Order Batter)

Hope, a fearless batter with a knack for quick runs, adds firepower to the West Indies lineup. His consistency in finding boundarie?s during the middle overs can shift momentum, making him a potential game-changer for the team.

6. Nicholas Pooran (Wicket-Keeper Batter)

Pooran’s dual role as wicketkeepe?r and middle-order finisher is a cornerstone of the West Indies lineup. His calm approach and ability to anchor the innings when needed, paired with his agility behind the stumps, make him an essential player.

7. Andre Russell (All-Rounder)

Russell’s versatility with both ba?t and ball brings balance to the We?st Indies squad. Known for his aggressive batting and medium-fast bowling, Russell provides an added layer of flexibility, making him a key asset in both powerplay and death overs.

8. Roston Chase (All-Rounder)

Chase, an experienced campaigner, brings maturity and control to the ??team. His steady spin bowling and reliable battin??g in the middle overs can help stabilize the innings and make breakthroughs when needed.

9. Gudakesh Motie (Spin Bowler)

As a leadin??g spin option, Motie adds variety to the West Indies attack. His turn and variations could exploit the Kensington Oval conditions, especially against England’s middle order.

10. Matthew Forde (Fast Bowler)

Forde, known for his swing and precise control, is a rising star in the West Indies pace attack. His ability to secure early wickets c?an disrupt England’s openers and apply pressure from the start.

11. Romario Shepherd (Fast Bowler)

With his speed and accuracy, Shepherd has earn??ed a reputation as a go-to bowler?? during the powerplay and death overs. His yorkers and aggressive deliveries make him a formidable opponent, particularly in containing runs and breaking partnerships.

Also READ: WI vs ENG: West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph faces two-match ban after heated disag?reement on the field

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The West Indies have unveiled their squad for the first two matches of the five-game T20I series against England, beginning on November 9 at?? the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados. Following a competitive ODI series between the two teams, in which the West Indies clinched a 2-1 victory by winning the first and third games, the hosts are looking to build on their momentum in the T20 format.

Key players return to strengthen T20I setup

A significant highlight of the squad announcement is the return of experienced players Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Andre Russell, and Akeal Hosein, all of whom were absent from the recent T20I series against Sri Lanka. Their return brings additional firepower and experience to the squad, especially in the batting and all-rounder departments. The inclusion of these four stars has resulted in the omission of Fabian Allen, Alick Athanaze, Andre Fletcher, and Shamar Springer, who made appearances in the previous series.

Matthew Forde replaces suspended Alzarri Joseph

Another notable adjustment is the inclusion of Matthew Forde in place of Alzarri Joseph, who is serving a two-match suspension after an on-field incident involving ODI captain Shai Hope during the final ODI against England. Forde, who shone during the ODI series a?gainst England with eight wickets at an impressive average of 16.38, was named Player of the Series and will bring both confidence and form to the T20I squad as he aims to make an ??impact in the bowling lineup.

Also READ: WI vs ENG: West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph faces two-match ban after heated dis??ag??reement on the field

Well-rounded batting and bowling units for West Indies

The West Indies squad features a balanced mix of explosive batters, skilled all-rounders, and potent bowlers, poised to offer a challenge to the English side. Captain Rovman Powell leads a batting lineup that includes power hitters Pooran, Hetmyer, Brandon King, and Evin Lewis, along with Hope, who adds stability at the top of? the orde??r.

The all-rounder section, featuring Russell, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, and Sherfane Rutherford, promises to? provide both muscle in the batting order and versatility with the ball, giving Powell flexible options across the innings.

In the bowling department, the squad is equipped with a strong pace attack led by Shamar Joseph, Terrance Hinds, and Forde, while the spin duties are handled by Hosein and Gudakesh Motie, who offer variations that could be crucial on the Kensington Oval pitch. Together, the team’s blend of power, experience, and youthful vigor looks set to ?mount a robust challenge against England in the T20 series.

West Indies squad for the first two T20Is against England

Rovman Powell (C), Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Terrance Hinds, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rut?herford, Romario Shepherd

Also WATCH: Alza??rri Joseph leaves field in anger after disagreement with captain Shai Hope in 3rd ODI �WI vs ENG

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On Thursday (October 31), the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 retention lists were unveiled, revealing which players will continue with their respective franchises for the upcoming season. All ten teams�strong>Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Lucknow Super Giants, Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat Titans, Punjab Kings, and Delhi Capitals—have made their decisions public.

Key details and importance of retention lists

• Total Franchise Purse: Each team has a budget of Rs 120 crore for the season.
• Retention Strategy: Teams have strategically chosen to retain players based on their performance and potential contributions for the next season. The amounts for retained players will be deducted from each franchise’s total purse, impacting their spending power in the upcoming auction.

The retention lists play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the upcoming IPL season. By retaining key players, franchises aim to maintain team chemistry and strengthen their? chances of success. Conversely, unretained players will enter the auction pool, offering opportunities for other teams to bolster their rosters. As teams gear up for the 2025 season, the strategic choices made in these retention lists will undoubtedly have significant implications for team composition and performance ??in the tournament.

Here’s the best playing XI after IPL 2025 retention

Top Order

1. Travis Head (Left-Handed Batter)

• Retention Price: Rs 14 crore
• Role: Aggressive opener
• Performance in 2024: 567 runs in 15 matches, averaging 40.50 with a strike rate of 191.55
• Strength: Head has shown impressive power-hitting with 64 fours and 32 sixes, making him a reliable aggressive opener.
• Key Contribution: His century (102) showcases his ability to anchor innings while maintaining a high strike rate, invaluable in setting the tone early.

2. Sanju Samson (Right-Handed Batter, Wicketkeeper and Captain)

• Retention Price: Rs 18 crore
• Role: Keeper and No. 2 batter
• Performance in 2024: 531 runs in 15 matches, average of 48.27, SR of 153.47
• Strength: Sanju’s consistency, including five fifties, has been key, providing stability alongside attacking prowess.
• Contribution: His flexibility as a wicketkeeper and top-order batter adds balance, evident in his 86-run highest score and six catches.

3. Virat Kohli (Right-Handed Batter)

• Retention Price: Rs 21 crore
• Role: Anchor at No. 3
• Performance in 2024: 741 runs in 15 matches, with an average of 61.75 and SR of 154.70
• Strength: Kohli’s remarkable consistency, including a century and five fifties, reinforces his value as a chase master.
• Contribution: His skill in handling high-pressure situations keeps the team stable if early wickets fall.

Also READ: Indian? Premier League: Date and venue confirmed for the IPL 2025 mega auction

Middle Order

4. Nicholas Pooran (Left-Handed Batter)

• Retention Price: Rs 21 crore
• Role: Explosive middle-order hitter
• Performance in 2024: 499 runs in 14 matches, averaging 62.38, SR of 178.21
• Strength: Pooran’s ability to accelerate with 36 sixes and 35 fours in the middle order provides depth.
• Contribution: His consistent, high-impact contributions at a high strike rate help turn games around in the middle overs.

5. Riyan Parag (Right-Handed Batter, Off-spin All-Rounder)

• Retention Price: Rs 14 crore
• Role: Finisher and part-time bowler
• Performance in 2024: 573 runs in 15 matches, average of 52.09, SR of 149.22
• Bowling: Limited to just 18 balls, yet to take a wicket.
• Strength: As a finisher, Parag’s 33 sixes show his finishing power.
• Contribution: Valuable lower-order hitter, though needs to develop bowling consistency to add flexibility.

6. Rinku Singh (Left-Handed Batter)

• Retention Price: Rs 13 crore
• Role: Lower middle-order finisher
• Performance in 2024: 168 runs in 14 matches, averaging 18.67, SR of 148.67
• Strength: Despite modest totals, Rinku’s ability to play impactful knocks late in innings adds strategic depth.
• Contribution: Known for clutch performances, but could aim for consistency.

7. Andre Russell (Right-Handed Batter, Fast-Bowling All-Rounder)

• Retention Price: Rs 12 crore
• Role: Finisher and pace-bowling all-rounder
• Performance in 2024: 222 runs with a strike rate of 185.00, and 19 wickets
• Bowling: Excellent death-over option with an economy of 10.06.
• Strength: Russell’s ability to both score rapidly and contribute in death bowling makes him a high-impact player.

Bowling Attack

8. Rashid Khan (Leg-Spinner)

• Retention Price: Rs 18 crore
• Role: Strike bowler and No. 8 batter
• Performance in 2024: 10 wickets in 12 matches with an economy of 8.40
• Strength: Though less prolific, Rashid’s economical spells and wicket-taking ability remain a key asset.
• Contribution: Adds control and variety to the bowling attack, while his batting offers lower-order stability.

9. Jasprit Bumrah (Right-Arm Fast Bowler)

• Retention Price: Rs 18 crore
• Role: Lead fast bowler
• Performance in 2024: 20 wickets in 13 matches with an economy of 6.48
• Strength: Bumrah’s outstanding death-bowling skills and wicket-taking abilities make him irreplaceable.
• Contribution: His control at both ends of the innings ensures balanced bowling support.

10. Varun Chakaravarthy (Mystery Spinner)

• Retention Price: Rs 12 crore
• Role: Middle-overs enforcer
• Performance in 2024: 21 wickets in 15 matches, economy of 8.04
• Strength: Varun’s mystery spin has effectively contained runs and taken wickets in the middle overs.
• Contribution: His 14.29 strike rate underlines his effectiveness as a breakthrough bowler.

11. Matheesha Pathirana (Right-Arm Fast Bowler)

• Retention Price: Rs 13 crore
• Role: Supporting pacer and death-over specialist
• Performance in 2024: 13 wickets in 6 matches with an economy of 7.68
• Strength: Pathirana’s unique action and death-bowling precision have made him a rising star.
• Contribution: Complements Bumrah well, especially during tight finishes, adding unpredictability.

12th Man

Suryakumar Yadav (Right-Handed Batter)

• Role: Backup middle-order option and fielding substitute
• Strength: Known for his dynamic 360-degree stroke play, Suryakumar is an ideal impact player, able to accelerate at will.

Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni: Reasons for exclusion from the best XI

Rohit Sharma’s performance

Rohit Sharma has been a prominent figure in IPL, known for his explosive batting and leadership. However, his 2024 performance raises some concerns. With 417 runs in 14 matches, he has an average of 32.08 and a strike rate of 150.00, which includes a high score of 105*. While he scored a century, his average indicates a lack of consistent big scores, which is crucial for a top-order batter. Furthermore, with only one fifty to accompany his century, it suggests that he has struggled to convert starts into substantial innings frequently. His performance, though highlighted by a century, hasn’t been consistently impactful enough to secure a spot in the best eleven.

MS Dhoni’s current role

MS Dhoni, despite being a legendary cricketer, is now playing in a more limited capacity in his later career. In 2024, he scored 161 runs in 14 matches, maintaining an impressive average of 53.67 due to his ability to finish innings. Nevertheless, his overall contribution in terms of runs remains relatively low, with a highest score of 37*. Dhoni’s batting role has transitioned to that of a finisher, and although he has demonstrated effectiveness in this role, the team requires players who can consistently build innings. Furthermore, with the shift in batting dynamics and a focus on power-hitting, Dhoni’s strike rate of 220.55, while outstanding, often comes in lower-order scenarios, limiting his opportunities to contribute significantly.

Also READ: IPL 2025 Re?tention: Complete list of players retai??ned with their price

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