Indian cricket has long been a powerhouse in the global arena, but recent praise from Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has reignited discussions about the unparalleled depth of talent in the country. Starc, a veteran of international cricket and one of the most feared fast bowlers, recently remarked that India is probably the only nation capabl??e of fielding three separate teams—one each for Tests, ODIs, and T20Is—on the same day and still being competitive against top-tier opponents. This statement underscores not just the talent pool but also the structural strength of Indian cricket.

Mitchell Starc praises India’s bench strength

During an interview on the YouTube channel FanaticsTV, Starc highlighted India’s unique position in world cricket. He stated that India could simultaneously play a Test match against Australia, an ODI against England, and a T20I against South Africa—and still hold their own in all three formats.

“I think they (India) are probably the only nation that can have a Test team, a one-day team, and a T20 team play on the same day against Australia in the Test, England in the one-dayer, and South Africa in the T20I; and India will be competitive,” he said, acknowledging the depth and versatility in India’s cricketing ranks.

This observation comes on the heels of India’s Champions Trophy 2025 victory under Rohit Sharma‘s leadership, a feat that further cemented their dominance in white-ball cricket. The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been credited as a significant contributor to this success, providing young players with exposure to high-pressure situations and opportunities to learn from international? stars.

The IPL effect: Building depth and confidence

Starc pointed out that while franchise cricket is a global phenomenon, the IPL stands out as the premier competition. With its mix of domestic and international talent, the league has become a breeding ground for future stars. Indian players, restricted to IPL participation due to BCCI policies, benefit immensely from competing alongside and against some of the world’s best cricketers.

Former Indian wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik echoed Starc’s sentiments, stating that the IPL has become an integral part of Indian cricket’s development. According to Karthik, young players entering international cricket are no longer overawed by big occasions because they have already faced world-class talent in the IPL. This exposure has created a pipeline of cricketers who are ready to step up whenever called upon.

Also READ: Yu??zvendra Chahal set to play County c?ricket after IPL 2025

A unique cricketing ecosystem

India’s ability to field multiple competitive teams stems from its robust domestic structure. The Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy serve as platforms for ide?ntifying and nurturing talent across formats. Additionally, India’s A-team tours provide emerging players with international exposure before they make their senior team?? debuts.

The results are evident: players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, and Arshdeep Singh have seamlessly transitioned into international cricket. This system ensures that even when senior players are unavailable due to injuries or workload mana??gement, there is no significant drop in performance levels.

Starc’s perspective: A balanced view

While praising India’s depth, Starc also offered a balanced perspective on whether this gives India an advantage in white-ball tournaments. He noted that while IPL provides invaluable experience, other countries’ players gain similar exposure by participating in multiple franchise leagues worldwide.

“It’s a great tournament, but obviously you have got to have talent there, and the depth in Indian cricket (is huge),” he added.

Starc himself is set to join the Delhi Capitals for IPL 2025 after opting out of Aus??tralia’s Champions ?Trophy squad due to personal reasons. His return to the IPL highlights his recognition of its importance as a competitive platform.

India: A model for cricketing excellence

Starc’s comments are not just high praise but also a reflection of how far Indian cricket has come. From being a team reliant on a few superstars to becoming a nation with an enviable bench strength across formats, India has set a benchmark for other cricketing nations.

The combination of grassroots development, domestic compet??itions, and the IPL has created a self-sustaining ecosystem that produces world-class cricketers year after year. As Starc rightly pointed out, no other country can currently match this depth—a t??estament to India’s dominance in modern-day cricket.

Also READ: Navjot?? Si?ngh Sidhu reveals Gautam Gambhir’s toughest challenge as head coach of Team India

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

In the aftermath of India‘s triumphant victory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former Indian captain Anil Kumble has highlighted an Indian batter as the most reliable one in India’s ODI setup. This endorsement comes following his consistent performances in both the 2023 ODI World Cup and the recent Champions Trophy. India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the final to claim their third?? ICC Champions Trophy ?title.

Anil Kumble picks most reliable batter for India in ODIs

Kumble has picked star Shreyas Iyer as India’s most reliable batter in the ODI format. Kumble emphasized the importance of a solid No. 4 batter, who can stabilize the innings while adjusting his scoring rate based on the match situation. He credited Iyer for understanding his role well, effectively anchoring the innings when needed and accelerating at the right moments. According to Kumble, Iyer’s ability to read the game and execute accordingly makes him an invaluable asset to India’s middle order.

“Yes, he has been [India’s most reliable batter]. We saw that even in the ODI World Cup and in this competition as well. At No. 4, you need someone really reliable, who not just controls the innings, but then goes at a pace that is required of that situation. I think Shreyas has certainly read that,” said Kumble on ESPNcricinfo.

Outstanding numbers in Champions Trophy

Notably, Iyer was instrumental in India’s success, scoring 243 runs across five innings at an average of 48.60 and a strike rate of 79.41 during the Champions Trophy. His contributions were crucial, especially in the final against New Zealand, where he scored 48 runs off 62 balls, helping India recover from a precarious position of 122/3 by forming a vital partnership with Axar Patel.

Also WATCH: Shrey?a??s Iyer opens up on rejuvenated self after Champions Trophy 2025 triumph

Crucial role in setting up India’s finishers

Kumble highlighted that Iyer’s primary role is not to finish games but to control the middle overs and set the stage for power-hitters like KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya. He explained that Iyer’s responsibility is to stabilize the innings from the moment he walks in until around the 35th-40th over, ensuring a solid foundation for the finishers to capitalize on.

“His role in this team is not to finish the game, but ensure that those middle periods, whenever he walks in, till about the 35th-40th over, he sets things up for the KL Rahuls and the Hardik Pandyas to come in and finish things off,” added Kumble.

Also READ: 5 viral girls who c??aught ??everyone’s attention in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 concluded with India securing a historic third title under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, marking a triumphant return to the top after a 12-year wait. Despite his pivotal role in guiding India to victory, Rohit was surprisingly omitted from the ICC’s Team of the Tournament. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially given his match-winning performance in the final against New Zealand. The ICC team features a strong contingent of Indian players, including Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Varun Chakravarthy, and Mohammed Shami, with New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner named as the captain.

Rohit Sharma’s dominant form in Champions Trophy 2025 final

Rohit’s performance in the Champions Trophy 2025 final was nothing short of spectacular. He led from the front with a crucial 76 off 83 balls, setting the tone for India’s successful chase of 252 against New Zealand. His innings was marked by a turbo-charged half-century, which included three sixes and several fours, helping India achieve their fastest team fifty of the tournament in just 7.1 overs. This display of leadership and batting prowess was instrumental in India’s victory, making his exclusion from the ICC Team of the Tournament all the more surprising.

Also READ: Here’s why there is no bus parad?e after India’s Champions Trophy?? 2025 title win

3 reasons why Rohit is not in the ICC’s Team of the Tournament

1. Consistency across the tournament

While Rohit’s performance in the final was outstanding, scoring 76 off  83 balls his overall consistency throughout the tournament was not as pronounced as some of his teammates. Players like Kohli (218 runs) and Iyer (243 runs) consistently contributed to India’s success, making them more appealing choices for the Team of the Tournament. Additionally, the ICC selectors might have prioritized players who performed well across multiple matches rather than just in the final.

2. Exceptional performances from other openers

The ICC Team of the Tournament features Rachin Ravindra and Ibrahim Zadran as the opening pair, both of whom had exceptional tournaments. Ravindra, named Player of the Tournament, scored 263 runs with two centuries, while Zadran amassed 216 runs at an average of 72. Their performances overshadowed Rohit’s overall tournament statistics, leading to their selection over him.

3. Team dynamics and balance

The ICC Team of the Tournament aims to create a balanced side that showcases the best performances across different roles. With Kohli and Iyer already selected for their middle-order contributions, the selectors might have felt that including Rohit would disrupt the balance of the team. Additionally, the inclusion of Santner as captain added a strong all-round element, which might have been seen as more valuable than Rohit’s batting alone.

ICC’s best XI of Champions Trophy 2025

Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand), Ibrahim Zadran (Afghanistan), Virat K??ohli (India), Shreyas Iyer (India), KL Rahul (wk) (India), Glenn Phillips (New Zealand), Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan), Mitchell Santner (c) (New Zealand), Mohammed Shami (India), Matt Henry (New Zealand), Varun Chakaravarthy (India)

Also READ: Hardik Pandya shares his take on India’s decision to not play Cham??pions Trophy 2025 matches in Pakistan

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

British singer and actress Jasmin Walia has become the centre of attention following her appearance at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, where she was spotted cheering for Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya. The match, held on March 9, 2025, in Dubai, saw India clinch a thrilling victory over New Zealand by four wickets, marking the end of a nine-year trophy drought. However, it was Walia’s presence in the stands that ignited speculation about her relationship with Pandya, especially after their rumoured romance began circulating in recent months.

Jasmin Walia’s show of support

Jasmin was seen in a chic blue and white striped dress with a beige belt, capturing the hearts o??f fans as she passionately supported the Indian team.

Her enthusi??astic reactions during critical moments of the match were widely shared on social media, further fuelling rumours about her connection with Pandya.

Walia took to Instagram to share glimpses from the match, including some stunning photos of herself. Her caption simply read, “Another one,” accompanied by a trophy emoji, which many interpreted as a nod to India’s win.

Also READ: Did Yuzvendra Chahal kiss RJ Mahvash during IND vs NZ 2025 Ch??ampions Trophy ??final? Here’s the truth

Reaction of fans

The comments section of Walia’s posts quickly filled with playful reactions from fans. Many referred to her affectionately as “Bhabhi Ji,” a term that playfully suggests she could be Pandya’s future wife. Comments like “It’s the perfect time to propose Hardik bhai” and “You always support Hardik” highlighted the excitement surrounding their rumoured relationship. Others expressed admiration for Jasmin, with one user commenting, “You’re very lucky,” reflecting on her connection to the ????star cricketer.

Are Hardik and Jasmin in a romantic relationship?

The buzz around Hardik and Jasmin intensified after Pandya’s split from his former wife Natasa Stankovic in July 2024. The couple announced their separation through social media, emphasizing their commitment to co-parenting their son Agastya despite ending their romantic relationship. Following this announcement, fans began speculating about Pandya’s love life, particularly when he was spotted vacationing in Greece with Walia. Their shared social media posts from the same location fueled further speculation about their budding romance.

While Walia’s presence at the final added a layer of intrigue to the event, it was India’s performance that captured headlines. The team’s victory against New Zealand not only secured them the Champions Trophy but also showcased their resilience and skill on an international stage.

Also READ: All you need to know about Hardik Pandya’s alleged girlfri?end Jasmin Walia

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has once again taken a strong stance against former England cricketers Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton for their claims that India had an unfair advantage during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The English duo, along with several cricketers like Jos Buttler, David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen, had raised concerns about India playing all their matches at one venue – Dubai, while other teams had to travel between multiple locations.

Sunil Gavaskar hits back at Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton over India’s Champions Trophy scheduling 

The criticism stemmed from the hybrid model adopted by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to send India to Pakistan due to security concerns. Under this arrangement, all of India’s matches, including the semifinals and final, were played in Dubai.

Hussain and Atherton suggested that avoiding travel and playing in familiar conditions gave India a major advantage over other teams. However, Gavaskar dismi??ssed these accusations as baseless complaints, asserting that the ICC had announced this decision months before the tournament, and if anyone had a problem with it, they should have spoken up before the event began—not after India won the title.

“There will be the carpers who talked about the advantage India had playing only at one venue and not having to travel between matches. However, that was decided by the ICC much before the tournament started, and any negative comment about that should have happened before the tournament’s first ball was bowled,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar.

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir to accompany India ‘A�on England tour ahead o??f senio??r team’s arrival

Gavaskar challenges England’s history of failing despite home advantage

In a blunt response, Gavaskar questioned why England, which has hosted numerous ICC tournaments in the past, failed to capitalize on their own home advantage for decades. He further emphasized that home advantage alone does not win tournaments – it is the team’s performance, preparation, and execution under pressure that truly matter. Gavaskar pointed out that while England players were quick to complain, they had no problem playing multiple ICC events at home, yet failed to deliver until they finally won the ODI World Cup 2019.

“If ‘home advantage’ was the sole reason India won, then why did England – where most of the complaints are coming from—fail to win any ICC trophies before 2019 despite hosting the tournament several times?,” Gavaskar concluded.

Also READ: Cricket Australia announces date and venue for the histor??ic 150th anniversary Test

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The Champions Trophy 2025 campaign was in most part a happening tour for New Zealand except for the fact that they could win the title this time around. The only team who were able to outperform them twice was India who ultimately clinched the title defeating them by 4 wickets in the all-important final of the tournament. After the defeat, New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner had some interesting thoughts of his own looking b?ack at the reasons behind his?? team’s failure to surpass the Indian challenge in the final.

Mitchell Santner takes a jibe at Dubai conditions

Santner acknowledged that Rohit Sharma‘s brilliant knock was the defining factor in the Champions Trophy final, ultimately proving to be the difference between the two teams. Reflecting on the narrow four-wicket defeat, Santner described it as a “bittersweet end” to their campaign. Rohit’s composed 76 off 83 balls played a pivotal role as India successfully chased down 252 in a thrilling finish.

“I think the way Rohit Sharma played kind of took it away from us, I think, obviously, India here understood the conditions in Dubai perfectly and played some good cricket. Yeah I guess it’s kind of bittersweet at the end,” New Zealand skipper said in the post-match press co?nfere??nce.

Additionally, the Black Caps skipper also talked about the challenges posed by the Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch and conditions,? which were a stark contrast to those in Lahore, the venue of their semifinal victory over South Africa.

“I guess we just keep coming up against India, which is always a challenge. We knew the conditions were going to be slightly different again from the semifinal, but we were ready for that. I thought we still put in a pretty good performance, and we took India deep. But I guess there’s always a few moments in every game, let alone every final, where you can potentially look back at,” the left-arm spinner remarked.

Also Watch: Mayanti Lan??????????????????????????ger blushes ??after Sunil Gavaskar’s dance following India’s Champions Trophy 2025 win

Matt Henry a major miss for the Black Caps

Santner also reflected on the absence of star pacer Matt Henry, who had been in exceptional form throughout the tournament. He stated that Henry’s injury and subsequent absence from the final was a significant factor in his team’s inability to contain the Indian batters during the run chase.

“He’s an outstanding bowler. We’ve seen he seems to be able to nip it on wickets that don’t look like they should nip so I guess we missed that today. I feel for Matty – he’s a massive team man and he looked pretty distraught. You know, we just kind of said, like, let’s do it for him. He tried everything he could to be ready for this game and unfortunately for us he wasn’t quite there,” Santner concluded.

With 10 wickets in 4 matches, Henry was the leading wic?ket-taker of the tournament, emerging as a major bone of contention for rival b??????????????????????????atting units.

Also Watch: Navjot Singh Sidhu and Gautam Gambhir perform ‘bhangra�to ?express their joy after India’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

There have been many heroes in India’s majestic run in the Champions Trophy 2025 to win the title, but none were more impactful and consistent than Shreyas Iyer who emerge??d as the saviour?? of the team at critical junctures.

After a historic win at the Dubai International Stadium, the middle-order batter talked about the emotions that had settled in the camp and the major changes in him following the comeback in ??the Indian team after the inju?ry.

Shreyas Iyer opens up on Champions Trophy 2025 triumph

Iyer was a pillar of strength for the Indian team during the course of the tournament. The star batter was the second-highe??st run-scorer during the tournament with 243 runs to his name in 5 matches.

On being asked about the kind of feelings after an empathic win in the Champions Trophy final, the 30-year-old described it as an ‘ineffableâ€?feeling since this is his first ICC trophy. Iyer added that he couldn’t have asked for more at the beginning of the year and it’s a win worth cherishing.

“Ineffable to be honest, This is my first win in an ICC event, right at the start of the year, and couldn’t ask for more to be honest, everyone kept calm and composed and you could see the result going in our way,” Iyer said during a discussion with Sanjana Ganesan at Star Sports.

Here’s the video

Also Watch: Virat Kohli d?renches Rishabh Pan?t in champagne as India celebrates Champions Trophy 2025 victory

Iyer opens up about the differentiating factor before and after his injury

Additionally, on being asked about the point of difference between his previous run in the team before the injury and now, Iyer descri??bed the belief in his abilities as the main differentiating factor.

“The self-belief is high, also the confidence. The way I walk onto the field. I would be bragging about myself, but I’m fearless. I feel from within and I see every challenge as an opportunity and I love to thrive on it,” Iyer remarked.

Following India’s brilliant run in the Champions Trophy 2025, the team is set to return to international cricket after the Indian Premier League (IPL) season in June for the 5-match Test series in England.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma opens up o?n prospects of playing the 2027 ODI World C??up after India’s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has concluded with India emerging as the champions, defeating New Zealand in a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. However, one of the most talked-about aspects of the tournament was India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for their matches, instead playing all their games in Dubai. This decision was made due to security concerns, and it sparked a lot of debate among cricket fans and pundits alike. In the midst of this controversy, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya offered a witty and diplomatic response when questioned a??bout the issue.

Hardik Pandya’s witty response

During a post-match press conference, Pandya was asked by a journalist why India did not travel to Pakistan for the tournament. Pandya, known for his humour and straightforwardness, replied, “I am sure Pakistani people living in Dubai must have enjoyed our performance. The question of why we didn’t go is way above my pay grade.” This response not only diffused the tension but also highlighted Pandya’s ability to handle sensitive questions with grace and humour.

Pandya’s statement acknowledged the enthusiasm of Pakistani fans while also making it clear that the decision to not play in Pakistan was beyond his authority. His focus remained on the team’s performance and the joy it brought to fans, including those from Pakistan who watched the matches in Dubai.

�ab q nae gay aur Kaha nae g?ay, ye sawal mere Pay grade se uper ka hai�

Hardik Pandya addressed the question of why the Indian team opted not to travel to Pakistan for the CT25 tournament. pic.twitter.com/AafVFFkrk4

— Tahir (@rajatahir27) March 10, 2025

Also READ: Did Yuzvendra Chahal kiss RJ Mahvash during IND vs NZ 2025 Champions Trophy final??? Here’s the truth

Pandya’s performance in the Champions Trophy 2025

Pandya played a crucial role in India’s success during the Champions Trophy 2025. He demonstrated his versatility as an all-rounder by scoring 99 runs and picking up four wickets in five matches. One of his notable performances was against Pakistan, where he dismissed Babar Azam, a key player for the Pakistani team.

In the semifinal against Australia and the final against New Zealand, Pandya p?layed the role of a finisher, helping India secure victories in tense situations. His contributions were pivotal in ensuring that India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, ultimately leading to their third Champions Trophy title.

The venue controversy

The decision to have India play all their matches in Dubai was met with mixed reactions. Some argued that it gave India an unfair advantage, as they did not have to travel between venues like other teams. However, Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram dismissed this notion, stating that India’s dominance in the tournament would have remained unchanged even if they had played in Pakistan. Akram praised India’s depth and leadership, highlighting their unbeaten run in both the T20 World Cup 2024 and the Champions Trophy 2025.

Team spirit and success

Pandya attributed India’s success to the team’s spirit and unity. He emphasized that the team is not driven by individual performances but rather by collective effort and belief in each other’s abilities. Pandya noted that every player feels capable of making a difference, which has been a key factor in their recent victories.

In an era where individual brilliance often takes centre stage, Pandya’s comments underscore the importance of teamwork in achieving success at the highest level. This mindset has been instrumental in India’s recent ICC tournament wins, showcasing a team that is cohesive and resilient under pressure.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Ravichandran Ashwin dismisses R??achin Ravindra’s selection as Pla??yer of the Tournament, reveals his pick

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

India‘s thrilling victory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final has sent waves of joy across the nation. However, unlike the grand festivities that followed their T20 World Cup 2024 win, there will be no open bus parade this time. The absence of such a celebration has left fans wondering why the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided against it.

A historic victory: India’s Champions Trophy 2025 journey

India’s journey to their third Champions Trophy title was nothing short of spectacular. Led by captain Rohit Sharma, the team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, showcasing remarkable consistency and skill. Their final match against New Zealand was a testament to their resilience and strategic planning. Rohit’s explosive 76 runs and crucial partnerships, including a late stand between KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, were instrumental in securing the win.

The team’s performance was a culmination of hard work and experience, with players like Virat Kohli and Rahul playing pivotal roles in the knockout stages. Kohli emphasized the importance of focusing on their skills rather than the opposition, which proved to be a winning strategy. The victory marked India’s 23rd win in 24 matches across the last three men’s ICC events since 2023, highlighting their dominance in international cricket.

Also READ: List of Player of the Match w??inners in Champions Trophy history ft. Rohit Sharma

Major reason behind not having a bus parade

The main reason behind the absence of a bus parade is the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which is set to begin on March 22. With such a tight schedule, the players have very little time to rest before jumping back into action. The BCCI has therefore decided against organizing a large celebration, prioritizing the players’ preparation for the IPL 2025.

The IPL is one of the most popular T20 leagues globally, and players like Rohit and Kohli are key figures in their teams respectively. Sunrisers Hyderabad, featuring Mohammed Shami, has already started its pre-season camp, highlighting the urgency for players to join their respective franchises. The logistical challenges of bringing everyone together for a celebration, combined with the players’ desire for a brief break, have shifted the focus away from a bus parade to preparing for the next big tournament.

Celebrations and receptions: A different approach

While there won’t be a grand bus parade, the players have still received warm receptions upon their return. Head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit, and Shreyas Iyer were among those who received a grand welcome on March 11. Videos of the players celebrating their victory, like Rohit and Kohli dancing with stumps, have gone viral, giving fans a glimpse into the team’s joy and camaraderie.

The absence of a bus parade doesn’t diminish the significance of India’s Champions Trophy win. Instead, it reflects the pragmatic approach taken by the BCCI to ensure the players are well-prepared for the IPL and future international commitments. The focus on rest and preparation is crucial, especially given the packed cricket calendar.

Also READ: Champions Tro??phy 2025: Ravichandran Ashwin dismisses Rachin Ravindra’s selection as Player of the Tournament, reveals his pick

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.