Team India is facing a major concern regarding the fitness of their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to be played in Pakistan and the UAE from February 19 to March 9. The right-arm pacer has been battling a back issue that surfaced during the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) against Australia in Sydney last month. Despite his inclusion in India’s provisional squad for the Champions Trophy, his participation hinges on medical clearance.

BCCI racing against time for a decision

With the February 12 deadline approaching for finalizing the squad, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is working against the clock to assess Bumrah’s fitness and make a final decision. The management is closely monitoring his rehabilitation, as he remains a crucial component of India’s pace attack. His absence would be a massive setback, considering his ability to deliver under pressure in marquee tournaments.

Bumrah played all five Tests in India’s recent series against Australia, where he showcased his brilliance by scalping 32 wickets. However, his injury concerns escalated when he did not bowl in the second innings of the final Test in Sydney due to a back spasm. After returning to India, he was advised a five-week rest period to recover from the strain.

Last white-ball appearance and Champions Trophy hopes

Bumrah’s last ODI appearance came in the 2023 World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad on November 19, where he claimed two wickets. He was also part of India’s T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa in Barbados on June 29, marking his most recen??t white-ball outing.

Given his importance to the squad, the Indian team management will be hoping for a positive fitness update ahead of the Champions Trophy, as his presence could significantly bolster their title aspirations. With Jasprit Bumrah’s availability uncertain for the 2025 Champions Trophy, India may have to look for an effective replacement who can deliver with the ball under high-pressure situations.

Also READ: Not Jasprit Bumrah! Shoai?b Akhtar picks the toughest bowler of modern-day cricket

3 potential replacements for Jasprit Bumrah in Champions Trophy 2025

1. Shardul Thakur – The all-round performer

Why he fits:
Shardul Thakur has been in exceptional form in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, delivering match-winning performances with both bat and ball. In the quarter-final against Haryana, he produced a game-changing spell, picking up six wickets in the second innings, helping Mumbai gain a stronghold in the match.

Current form & impact:

• In the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season, Thakur has been a standout performer with the ball, having taken 30 wickets in just eight matches at an average of 22+, including three four-wicket hauls.
• His match-winning six-wicket haul against Haryana was also his maiden five-wicket haul of the season.
• Apart from his bowling exploits, he has been a valuable contributor with the bat, scoring 396 runs in nine innings at an average of 45+, including one century and three fifties.

International experience:
Thakur last played a Test match for India in 2023 but hasn’t been a part of the national squad since. Despite being fit, he was not selected for the white-ball series against England or the upcoming Champions Trophy. While he went unsold in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction, his current Ranji Trophy form suggests he could be a strong contender for an international recall, esp??ecially if India needs an all-rounder in place of Bumrah.

2. Harshit Rana – The young pace sensation

Why he fits:
Harshit Rana has had a dream start to his international career, making his debut across Test, T20I, and now ODI formats in quick succession. His raw pace and ability to extract bounce make him an exciting option to rep?lace Bum?rah.

Performance in ODIs against England:

• In the first ODI of the ongoing series, Rana impressed with his pace and aggression, picking up three wickets in his debut match.
• He consistently bowled at 140 kmph, troubling England’s batters with his pace and variations.
• Despite getting hammered for 62 runs in 9 overs in the second ODI, he has shown promise and adaptability, which could make him a long-term asset for India.

Why he’s a strong contender:

• Given that Bumrah was rested and Rana was included in the squad as his replacement, it indicates that the team management already sees him as a viable backup option.
• If India wants an out-and-out fast bowler with aggressive intent, Rana could be the perfect pick.

3. Prasidh Krishna – The Tall, lethal speedster

Why he fits:
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches??, Prasidh Krishna brings extra bounce and pace to his bowling, making him a potential match-winner in seaming conditions.

International & domestic performance:

• He made headlines with a stunning six-wickets in the Sydney Test against Australia, proving his ability to trouble top-order batters.
• In ODIs, he has taken 29 wickets in 17 matches, but hasn’t been able to establish himself as a permanent member of the squad.
• His List-A record is excellent, with 120 wickets in 70 matches at an impressive bowling average.

Why he’s a strong contender:

• Krishna has the experience of playing in high-pressure matches and could be a useful asset in conditions that offer bounce and movement.
• If India is looking for a like-for-like pace replacement for Bumrah, Krishna’s height and ability to generate extra lift make him a compelling choice.

Who should replace Bumrah?

Also READ: Ravindra Jadeja responds to?? a query related to Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for Champions Trophy 2025

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The BCCI Naman Awards took center stage in Mumbai on Saturday, (February 1, 2025) bringing together India’s finest cricketing talents to honor their exceptional contributions to the sport.

The prestigious annual event witnessed the presence of renowned cricketers from both the domestic and international circuits, including Indian men’s team captain Rohit Sharma, who was among the star attracti?ons of the evening. The event celebrated the achievements of players across various categorie??s, recognizing their outstanding performances over the past year.

Rohit Sharma’s hilarious banter with Smriti Mandhana

One of the most entertaining moments of the evening came during a fun interaction between Indian women’s team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and Rohit, with Hardik Pandya and Jemimah Rodrigues also joining the conve??rsation. Mandhana, known for her quick wit, playfully asked Rohit about any new hobby he had picked up recently and whether his teammates had been teasing him about i??t. Rohit, in his signature humorous style, responded:

“I don’t know. They tease me about forgetting. It’s not a hobby obviously, but since you spoke about teasing, this is what they tease me about – when I forget my wallet, I forget my passport – which is absolutely not true.”

Rohit’s lighthearted response sent the audience into fits of laughter. However, Mandhana wasn’t done yet. She pressed further, asking:

“What’s the biggest thing you have forgotten?”

At?? first, Rohit hesitated, seemingly wary of the repercussions of his answer. Then, with a mischievous grin, ?he replied:

“I can’t say that. I mean, if this is coming live, my wife will be watching. I would keep it to myself.”

As the audience erupted in laughter, Hardik jumped in with ?a witty remark:

“He (Rohit) makes sure around his seat he has not forgotten something.”

The playful exchange highlighted the camaraderie between India’s top cricketers, add??ing a delightful touch to the prestigious evening.

Here’s the video:

Don't 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕 to watch this 😎

Smriti Mandhana tries to find out the one hobby that Rohit Sharma has picked up recently, which his teammates tease him about 😃#NamanAwards | @ImRo45 | @mandhana_smriti pic.twitter.com/9xZomhnJjy

— BCCI (@BCCI) February 1, 2025

Also READ: Shreyanka Patil reveals what she’d love to steal from Virat Kohli, Rohit S?harma?? and Smriti Mandhana

Major winners at the BCCI Naman Awards 2025

While the event had its share of entertaining moments, the main highlight was the recognition of the best performers in Indian cricket. Mandhana emerged as the mo?st decorated cricketer of the night, bagging multiple awards for her consistent brilliance.

Women’s Cricket Award Winners:

• Best International Cricketer (Women) �?Smriti Mandhana
• Highest Runs in One Day Internationals (Women) �?Smriti Mandhana
• Best International Debut (Women) �?Asha Sobhana
• Highest Wickets in One Day Internationals (Women) �?Deepti Sharma
• Jagmohan Dalmiya Trophy for Best Woman Cricketer (Junior Domestic) �?Ishwari Awasare (Maharashtra)
• Jagmohan Dalmiya Trophy for Best Woman Cricketer (Senior Domestic) �?Priya Mishra (Delhi)

Smriti Mandhana’s dominance in women’s cricket was evident as she continued to shine on the international stage, further cementing her reputation as one of the finest batters in the game. Meanwhile, Deepti Sharma‘s contributions with the ball were duly acknowledged, and Asha Sobhana was recogni?zed for her impressive international ??debut.

Also READ: Women’s Premier League: Complete schedule for W??PL 2025; Royal Challengers Bengaluru will battle ?Gujarat Giants in the opener

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

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Suresh Raina, the former India all-rounder, recently voiced his opinion on India‘s squad selection for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan and UAE.

India’s preparation for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced India’s 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, which will starts on February 19th. India will kick off their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by a high-stakes encounter with arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23, and will face New Zealand on March 2. All matches will be played in Dubai. In their squad announcement, India made some significant omissions, including Mohammed Siraj and Sanju Samson. The team, which has won the Champions Trophy twice – first in 2002, shared with Sri Lanka, and again in 2013 in England – will now have to navigate a tough group stage without these key players.

Also READ: Not India! Suni??l Gavaskar picks the favourites for Champions Trophy 2025

Suresh Raina’s perspective: A major miss for India 

Raina strongly believed that the exclusion of Suryakumar Yadav from the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is a significant setback for India. Raina emphasized Suryakumar’s exceptional batting skills, describing him as someone who can score at a brisk pace and turn games around. Suryakumar’s ability to play unconventional shots, adapt to different game situations, and create breakthroughs with his batting will undoubtedly be missed. Raina also highlighted the challenge India faces due to Suryakumar’s absence, particularly in the top order.

“Surya was an integral part of the World Cup squad, he is a 360 player who can score at 9 runs per over at any stage of the game. He can dominate the opposition and bats in a different way,. If Surya was there, he would have been an X-factor; he would have missed. The responsibility will now be on the top 3, who are not in form. Surya is someone who can bat in any position,” Raina said on Star Sports Press Room.

Also READ: Sanjay Bangar reveals his playing XI for India’s opening game i??n Champions Trophy 2025

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a comprehensive set of guidelines for Team India players, covering aspects such as travel, personal staff, domestic cricket participation and conduct during tours. The move is aimed at fostering professionalism, d??iscipline, and unity within the team. Non-adherence to these rules could result in severe disciplinary actions, including suspension from tournaments and deduction of match fees.

Key Highlights of the New Guidelines

Mandatory Domestic Cricket Participation

To strengthen the domestic cricket ecosystem, players are now required to participate in domestic fixtures to remain eligible for national selection. This mandate is designed to ensure talent development, maintain match fitness, and inspire emerging players. Exceptions to this rule will only be allowed under extraordinary circumstances with prio??r approval from the Selection Committee Chairman.

Travel and Team Cohesion

The BCCI has emphasized the importance of traveling as a team. Recent incidents, such as players traveling separately with their families during t??he Australia tour, have prompted the board to disallow individual travel arrangements unless pre-approved by the Head Coach and Selection Committee Chairman.

Restrictions on Personal Staff

Players will no longer be permitted to bring personal staff, such as hairdressers, chefs, or nannies, on tours unless explicitly authorized by the BCCI. The policy?? aims to minimize logistical challenges and maintain focus on team operations.

Staying Until Series End

Players must remain with the team until the scheduled conclusion of a tour or s??eries, even if matches end early. This rule is intended to promote team bonding and avoid disruptions.

Disciplinary Measures for Non-Compliance

The BCCI has warned players of? strict penalties for violating the guidelines. Actions may include suspension from all BCCI-conducted tournaments, including the IPL, and deduct??ions from retainer amounts or match fees.

Family Travel Policy

A new family travel policy allows players to be joined by their spouses and children during overseas tours exceeding 45 days. However, visits are limited to a two-week period per series and must align with the team’s schedule. The BCCI will cover shared accommodation costs, but other expenses will be the player’s responsibility.

Also READ: KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, or S??anju Samson? Who should be India’s wicketkeeper-batter ??for Champions Trophy 2025

Other Rules and Regulations

• Excess Baggage: Players must adhere to baggage limits, with extra costs borne by individuals.
• Practice Sessions: Players are required to attend entire sessions, ensuring discipline and a strong work ethic.
• Endorsements During Tours: Personal shoots and endorsements during tours are prohibited to avoid distractions.
• Participation in BCCI Activities: Players must prioritize BCCI’s official events, shoots, and promotional activities.

Implementation and Objectives

The BCCI stated that the guidelines aim to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while ensuring operational efficiency. “This policy ensures accountability and reinforces the importance of prioritizing Indian cricket. Players are expected to adhere strictly to the rules to create an environment where they can thrive and perform to their fullest potential,” the BCCI document reads.

B??y introducing these measures, the BCCI is striving to maintain discipline, unity and focus within Team India, ensuring the players meet the expectations of a modern professional cricketing outfit.

Also WATCH: ?Shreyas Iyer captivates internet with his heartfelt gesture towards a female admirer

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On January 12, 2025, 14-year-old Mumbai cricketer Ira Jadhav shattered records with an unbeaten 346 off just 157 balls in the Women’s U19 One Day Trophy match against Meghalaya. The match took place at the Alur Cricket Ground in Bangalore, where Jadhav single-handedly dismantled th??e op?position’s bowling attack with a masterclass of stroke play.

A record-breaking knock from a 14-year-old Ira Jadhav

Her innings was a spectacular display of power hitting, precision, and endurance – she smacked 42 boundaries and cleared the boundary rope 16 times, leaving the bowlers helpless. This epic knock earned her the distinction of being the first Indian (male or female) to record a triple century in any Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)-organized limited-overs cricket tournament.

What makes Jadhav’s feat even more remarkable is her age. At just 14, she has emerged as a prodigy in Indian cricket, capable of withstanding the pressures of top-level competition and delivering a performance that will go down in history. Her ability to pace her ?innings intelligently, adjusting between defense and attack, showcased maturity beyond her years. With every boundary and six, she built momentum for Mumb?ai, eventually helping them post an imposing total of 563/3—the highest ever by any Indian domestic women’s team at any level.

Shattering Smriti Mandhana’s U19 record

Ira Jadhav’s innings did more than just create history – it demolished an existing record set by Indian women’s cricket icon Smriti Mandhana. In 2013, Mandhana had set the benchmark for the highest individual U19 score by an Indian, scoring 224 not out. Jadhav surpassed this by a significant margin, leaving no doubt about her immense talent and hunger for records. Her knock was not just a matter of running between the wickets – it was an exhibition of power, skill, and poise.

Globally, Jadhav’s score ranks second only to South Africa’s Lizelle Lee, who set the world record with an unbeaten 427 against Kei in 2010. However, Jadhav’s inning??s is unparalleled in the Indian domestic circuit, making her one of the most talked-about young cricketers in? the country.

Also READ: U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 warm-up sch??edule: Date,? Fixtures, Venue, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

Massive partnerships drive Mumbai’s total

Jadhav’s historic innings wasn’t achieved in isolation; it was built upon several crucial partnerships that added to Mumbai’s massive score. Her partnership with captain Hurley Gala was particularly noteworthy – together, they added a whopping 274 runs for the second wicket. Gala’s contribution to this partnership was a quick-fire 116 off 79 balls, providing the ideal support to Jadhav’s dominance at the crease.

Following Gala’s dismissal, Jadhav seamlessly transitioned into the next phase of her innings, pairing with Diksha Pawar for a 186-run stand. Jadhav’s contribu??tion in this partnership was an equally impressive 137 off 50 balls, which saw her bring up her triple century with clinical precision. These partnerships demonstrated her ability to anchor innings and build momentum, ensuring Mumbai posted a mammoth total that Meghalaya found insurmountable.

WPL 2025 and U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025

Ira Jadhav’s performance has not only made her the youngest player to score a triple century in Indian cricket but has also created a new milestone for women’s cricket in the co??untry. Her innings underlined the growing talent pool in women’s cricket, where youngsters like Jadhav are emerging as stars with the potential to play at the highest level.

Interestingly, Jadhav’s name had also appeared in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 mini-auction, where she registered at a base price of INR 10 lakh. However, she went unsold, indicating that franchises may not have fully recognized her potential at this stage. Despite that, her performance in the U19 One Day Trophy has certainly turned heads and cemented her place as one of India’s brighte?st future stars.

Jadhav’s incredible journey is just beginning. Her record-breaking innings will surely open doors for more opportunities in the future. She has already been named as one of the standbys for India’s U19 T20 World Cup 2025 squad, which will be traveling to Malaysia. With such a remarkable start to her career, all eyes will now be on how she builds on t??his incredible performance.

Also READ: Top 5 highest totals for India in Women’s ODIs

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

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India’s matches in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will take place in the UAE, a decision solidified following a meetin?g between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak, the head of Emirates Cricket Board.

The much-anticipated India versus Pakistan group-stage match is scheduled for Sunday, February 23, in Dubai. India’s other group matches include games against Bangladesh on February 20 and New Zealand on March 2, also likely to be hosted in Dubai.

Pakistan, the defending champions, will begin their campaign on February 19 against New Zealand in Ka??rachi. They will play their final group-stage match against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.

Tournament structure and schedule

The tournament features two groups:

Group A: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and New Zealand.
Group B: Afghanistan, Australia, England and South Africa

Matches outside India’s schedule will be held across Pakistan in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi.

The semi-finals are slated for March 4 and 5, with a reserve day allocated only for the second semi-final. If India qualifies for the semi-finals, their match will be hosted in the UAE; otherwise, it will take place in Pakistan. The fin?al is scheduled for Marc?h 9 in Lahore, with a provision to shift to the UAE if India makes it to the final.

Also READ: Joe Root returns as England announces ODI squad? for Champions Trophy 2025 and India tour

Hybrid model agreement

The Champions Trophy 2025 will operate under a hybrid hosting model. Under this arrangement, Pakistan’s matches in ICC events hosted by India until 2027 will also be played at neutral venues. This model ensures neutrality for both countries’ matches, particularly during the knockouts.

The agreement extends to future ICC events, including the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup in India, the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, and the 2028 Women’s T20 World Cup in Pakistan.

This innovative approach aims to balance? cricketing ties amidst political sensitivities, ensuring the participation of both nations while providing a neutral ground for their high-stakes encounters.

Also READ: Saim Ayub’s stellar ton leads Pakistan to a historic ODI whitewash over South Africa

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Cricket enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as anticipation builds for the 3rd edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to make an official announcement regarding the tournament’s dates and venues. However, recent reports suggest that the governing body has finalized a schedule for?? this much-awai?ted cricketing spectacle.

BCCI sets tentative window for Women’s Premier League 2025

While the 2025 WPL remains under wraps,?? the BCCI has already earmarked a tentative window for the 2025 edition. According to reports from the Cricbuzz, the league is expected to take place between February 6 and March 9, 2025. Although these dates are not officially confirmed, BCCI authorities reportedly shared the preliminary schedule during the WPL auction held in Bengaluru. This proactive planning reflects the board’s commitment to ensuring the league’s sustained success.

The BCCI is also considering potential venues for the 2025 edition, with Lucknow and Ahmedabad emerging as the frontrunners. Delhi, which hosted matches in previous seasons, is unlikely to? be included due to its harsh winter conditions during the tournament window. Similarly, Mumbai and Bengaluru are not under active consideration as hosts this time around. Fans eagerly await official confirmation as the board weighs these options to deliver a world-class experience.

Also READ: WPL 2025 Auction: Comp??let?e list of sold players with their price

Recap of WPL’s transformative journey

Since its inception in 2023, the Women’s Premier League has redefined the landscape of women’s cricket. The league’s inaugural season saw the Mumbai Indians Women, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, claim the trophy, while the Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women, under Smriti Mandhana, triumphed in the second edition. With two successful seasons under its bel??t, the WPL has become a global platform showcasing extraordinary talent, intense franchise competition, and historic achievements. The WPL is not just a tournament it is a movement that symbolizes the rapid growth and marketability of women’s cri?cket. Beyond thrilling matches, it has created financial and professional milestones for players, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for the sport.

Also READ: All you need to know about G. Kamal?ini: 16-year-old prodigy fetched a whopping price in WPL 2025 auction

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

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Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stepped into the ongoing dispute between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rega??rding the hosting of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

During a recent meeting with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Sharif expressed his support for the PCB’s position and emphasized the importance of maintaining Pakistan’s self-respect in negotiations.

Support for PCB’s stance

Sharif’s comments come as India have refused to play their Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, instead proposing a hybrid model that would allow them to play at a neutral ve??nue, such as Dubai. This proposal has sparked significant controversy, with the PCB advocating for a more equitable arrangement that reflects the sentiments of Pakistani cricket fans.

According to Geo TV, Sharif told Naqvi that the issue is not solely about financial considerations but also about national pride and public sentiment.“The stance adopted by the PCB reflects the feelings of all Pakistanis when it comes to the Champions Trophy after India’s refusal to play in Pakistan,” Sharif reportedly ??stated. He encouraged Naqvi to approach the situation with dignity and pride, reinforcing th??at Pakistan should not compromise its self-respect in these discussions.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025 – Understanding the hybrid model and its implications on India-Pakistan rivalry

Ongoing negotiations

The meeting between Sharif and Naqvi was reportedly convened on short notice to discuss the next steps for Pakistan regarding the tournament. The PCB has been exploring various options, including a proposed “fusion formula,” which would stipulate that if India do not participate in events held in Pakistan, then Pakistan would likewise refrain from playing in India.

“Basically, Naqvi wanted to keep the PM updated and get his approval if the PCB decides to break the deadlock with any tough decision on the tournament,” a source close to the development was q?uoted saying to Ge??o TV.

As discussions continue at the ICC headquarters in Dubai, there is a growing consensus among cricketing authorities regarding the hybrid model. However, this arrangement is yet to be? finalized, and further negotiations are expected.

Also READ: AUS vs IND – Morne Morkel highlights Indian bowlers’ mistakes after massive defeat in Pink Ball Test

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The third edition of SA20, South Africa’s premier T20 franchise cricket tournament, is set to commence on January 9, 2025. This fast-growing league, which mirrors the format and excitement of global tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL), continues to gain traction among cricket fans worldwide. Graeme Smith, the League Commissioner, and ?former South African captain, has shed light on the league’s evolving dynamics and the possibility of Indian players joining the tournament.

Graeme Smith opens up on SA20’s future growth

Smith, speaking at the SA20 India Day, emphasized the strong relationship with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and acknowledged their policies regarding Indian players. He highlighted the immense popularity of Indian cricketers in South Africa, noting the excitement they generate among ??fans and the competitive edge they bring when playing in South African conditions.

“I mean, I think we always work with the BCCI. Obviously, they have policies in place with regard to Indian players. The talent in India is so loved in South Africa as well. You can see when the Indian team comes out there, just the talk on the streets, the fans, you know, they can’t wait to see these type of players in South African conditions and the competitive nature that it brings,” Smith stated at the SA20 India Day, according to a release from SA20.

Smith highlighted that Indian players contribute to the success of tournaments, and emphasized the importance of quality, competitive cricket that Indian fans enjoy. He believes that with the six IPL franchises, they are well-positioned to attract top talent from India if permitted, though?? the future growth remains uncertain.

“Obviously, Indian players help that from our perspective, but quality tournaments that people enjoy watching, Indian fans enjoy competitive cricket. So, for us, those are all sort of key ingredients. We don’t know what the growth looks like into the future. We think with the six IPL franchises that we’re perfectly situated to be able to attract top talent out of India, if allowed,” Smith added.

Also READ: IPL and BCCI contracts: Top 5 highest-earning Indian c???ricketers

Smith talks about the difference between IPL and SA20 

Smith mentioned that cricket conditions can vary significantly, as observed in the IPL last year. He pointed out ??that in South Africa, the playing conditions differ between stadiums like the Wanderers, Cape Town, and Paarl.

“Look, I mean, cricketing-wise, it’s obviously different. We saw in the IPL last year, I mean, batting conditions in the early season was, I think, you know, around South Africa, in our six stadiums, you get different conditions from the Wanderers to Cape Town to Paarl and so on,” Smith explained as quoted in a release from SA20.

Dinesh Karthik makes history in SA20

In a historic move, former Indian wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik is set to participate in the upcoming SA20 season. Joining the Paarl Royals, Karthik will become the first Indian cricketer to play in the South African T20 league, marking a significant milestone in the global T20 landscape. This move not only signifies Karthik’s return to competitive cricket but also sets a precedent for more Indian players to explore international T20 leagues. Additionally, Karthik will serve as the league’s ambassador in India, promoting SA20 to a broader audience.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin predicts the captain of R??oyal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for IPL 2025

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