South Africa are all set to welcome another electrifying season of the SA20, a tournament that has quickly established its??elf as one of the premier T20 leagues in the world. The third edition promises an unparalleled blend of world-class cricket, fierce competition, ?and top-tier entertainment, captivating cricket enthusiasts across the globe.

SA20 2025 schedule: Cricket for a glorious summer

Marking the start of a new year in style, the tournament will begin on 9 January 2025, bringing together elite local and international talent for a month of action-packed cricket. The grand finale is scheduled for 8 February 2025, and fittingly, it will be held at South Africa’s cricketing mecca, the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and cricketing legacy, the venue is expected to draw massive crowds, adding to the spectacle of the championsh??ip-deciding clash.

Opening clash: A battle of titans

The season opener promises to be a mouth-watering affair as defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape take on MI Cape Town at St George’s Park in Gqeberha.

• Sunrisers Eastern Cape’s Dominance: The two-time champions will begin their quest for a historic third consecutive title. Led by a core group of match-winners, the Sunrisers aim to cement their legacy as one of the most dominant teams in SA20 history.
• MI Cape Town’s Ambition: Backed by the MI franchise’s global reputation, MI Cape Town will look to make an early statement. Featuring a star-studded lineup, they pose a serious challenge to the reigning champions.

The choice of St George’s Park, renowned for i?ts electric atmosphere and live brass ban??ds, ensures the tournament starts on a high note.

A platform for local and international talent

One of SA20’s standout? features is its ability to showcase the best cricketing talent from South Africa and around the world. The league has become a proving ground for emerging stars while providing a platform for seasoned players to exhibit their skills in high-pressure situations.

• Local Talent: Rising South African stars, such as Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs and Gerald Coetzee, will once again have the opportunity to shine on the global stage. The league has played a pivotal role in fast-tracking young talent into the national setup.
• International Stars: Global T20 icons like Rashid Khan, Jos Buttler and Kane Williamson are expected to bring their expertise and flair, ensuring fans are treated to a spectacle of the highest quality.

Also READ: SA20 2025: ?TV channels, live streaming details �When a?nd where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK & other countries

Indian players in SA20: Expanding global horizons

Indian cricketers are often restricted from participating in overseas leagues due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) regulations. Ho??wever, the SA20 has allowed a few exceptions, particularly for retired players or those granted special permissions. This move has brought immense e??xcitement, as fans get a rare glimpse of Indian talent in a global league.

1. Dinesh Karthik (Paarl Royals)

A seasoned campaigner with a career spanning two decades, Dinesh Karthik is renowned for his adaptability in T20 cricket. Known for his ice-cool temp??erament and finishing abilities, he will be a crucial player for the Paarl Royals. Karthik’s knack for handling high-pressure situations makes him an ideal middle-order batter who can a?lso accelerate during death overs.

• Role: Wicketkeeper-batter with expertise in finishing matches.
• Strengths: Exceptional ability to read game scenarios and deliver under pressure.
• Previous Experience: Played for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Karthik’s inclusion adds an experienced leader to the Royals’ dressing room, where his insights could shape younger players’ approaches to the game.

Afghan stars in SA20: The spin wizards

Afghanistan conti?nues to dominate the T20 landscape, producing players who are redefining the shorter format. This season, the SA20 welcomes some of their most sought-after talents, known for t??heir spin mastery and unyielding tenacity.

1. Rashid Khan (MI Cape Town, Captain)

Rashid is a global T20 phenomenon whose mastery over ??leg-spin and ability to hit big sho??ts make him a complete package. Leading MI Cape Town this season, Rashid combines tactical acumen with a relentless drive to inspire his teammates.

• Role: Captain and leg-spinning all-rounder.
• Notable Achievements: Over 500 T20 wickets and consistent performances in leagues like the IPL and BBL.
• Strengths: Unplayable googlies and unmatched consistency in tight situations.

As captain, Rashid will look to replicate his success as a leader, providing MI Cape Town with a wi??nning edge both strategically and through his perfor??mances.

2. Naveen-ul-Haq (Durban Super Giants)

A rising star in T20 cricket, Naveen-ul-Haq has already showcased his abilities in leagues across the globe. Known for his deceptive slower de?liveries and tight lines, Naveen thrives in pressure situations.

• Role: Death-over specialist and enforcer in the middle overs.
• Strengths: Variations in pace, ability to deliver under pressure.

W?ith his knack for breaking partnerships and maintaining control during the slog overs, Naveen is poised to be a game-changer for the Super Giants.

3. Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Paarl Royals)

Mujeeb brings a unique dimension to the Royals’ bowling attack with his mystery spin, which has proven effective across powerplays and middle overs.

• Role: Mystery spinner and powerplay specialist.
• Strengths: Economical bowling, pinpoint accuracy under pressure.
• Experience: Successful stints in the IPL, Big Bash League (BBL) and Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Mujeeb’s ability to choke runs early and create opportunities for wickets makes him indispensable in T20 cricket.

4. Noor Ahmad (Durban Super Giants):

• Role: Emerging left-arm wrist-spinner known for his variations and control.
• Strengths: Noor excels in building pressure during middle overs, often striking crucial blows.
• Achievements: Stellar performances in the IPL and other T20 leagues have cemented his reputation as a rising star.

Sri Lankan players in SA20: A blend of youth and experience

Sri Lanka’s rich cricketing heritage continu??es to shine in the SA20, with their players offering a perfect mix of youth and experience. These cricketers bring versatility and resilience, vital traits for success in the fast-paced T20 format.

1. Maheesh Theekshana (Joburg Super Kings)

A cornerstone of the Joburg Super Kings’ bowling attack, Maheesh Theekshana’s mystery spin has made him a valuable asset.

• Role: Spinner adept at bowling in powerplay and death overs.
• Strengths: Variability in spin and adaptability across different pitch conditions.
• IPL Connection: Rose to prominence with the Chennai Super Kings.

Thee??kshana’s ability to contain runs and pick wickets in crucial phases of the game will be key for the Super Kings.

2. Dunith Wellalage (Paarl Royals)

At just 21 years old, Wellalage has already proven himself as a match-winner with both bat and ball??.

• Role: Spin-bowling all-rounder.
• Strengths: Wicket-taking ability and valuable lower-order contributions.

Wellalage’s youthful energy and knack for delivering in crunch moments make him a promising addition to the ??Royal??s.

3. Nuwan Thushara (MI Cape Town)

Often likened to Lasith Malinga for his slingy action, Thushara is a T20 bowler capable of delivering leth?al yorkers.

• Role: Death-over specialist.
• Strengths: Accuracy, variety in pace, and ability to bowl pinpoint yorkers.

Thushara’s unconventional action and precise execution make him a ni??ghtmare for batters in the final overs.

4. Matheesha Pathirana (Joburg Super Kings)

Nicknamed?? “Baby Malinga,�Pathirana has already impressed in high-pressure tournaments like the IPL.

• Role: Specialist in death-over bowling.
• Strengths: Toe-crushing yorkers and deceptive slower balls.

Pathirana’s unorthodox action and ability to deliver in clutch moments add a unique edge to the Super Kings’ lineup.

Importance of international representation

The inclusion of Indian, Afghan and Sri Lankan players in SA20 has elevated the tournament’s global appeal, bringing together a rich blend of styles and skills.

1. Indian Players: Known for their calmness under pressure and versatility, they offer stability and finishing capabilities.
2. Afghan Players: Renowned for their exceptional spin talent and fearless batting, they add unpredictability to any team.
3. Sri Lankan Players: With a balance of youthful exuberance and experience, they excel in adapting to diverse conditions.

This multicult?ural representation not only enhances the comp?etition but also fosters camaraderie among players from varied cricketing backgrounds, making the SA20 a truly global spectacle.

Also READ: ?S??A20 2025 Squads: Players list and captains of all six teams

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The highly anticipated 2025 edition of the SA20 league is set to kick off on January 9 at St George’s Park, Gqeberha, with Sunrisers Eastern Cape facing MI Cape Town in the opening match. This season marks a significant milestone as Dinesh Karthik becomes the first Indian cricketer to feature in the league, playing for the Paarl Royals, a sister franchise of IPL’s Rajasthan Royals.

AB de Villiers expresses desire for Indian players in SA20

South African cricket legend AB de Villiers, who serves as the brand ambassador for the league, voiced his enthusiasm for Indian players participating in SA20. In a recent media interaction, De Villiers praised the inclusion of Karthik and hoped the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ??would allow more Indian cricketers to join the tournament in the future.

“I would love to see more Indian players involved. We know Dinesh Karthik will be here this year, which is fantastic and great for the tournament. Hopefully, the BCCI will allow us to get more Indian players in the future to join the fun of the SA20,” said De Villiers.

Also READ: So?uth Africa legend Allan Donald picks two Indian stars he would love to see in SA20 league

De Villiers picks five Indian stars to feature in the tournament

While acknowledging the challenges posed by BCCI’s current policy, which restricts active Indian players from competing in overseas leagues, De Villiers shared his dream picks for the SA20. He expressed his desire to see Indian players, particularly those at the peak of their careers, participate in the SA20 league, emphasizing the excitement and quality they would bring. De Villiers highlighted his top picks from the current crop of Indian cricketers, naming Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Suryakumar Yadav as players he would love to see in action in South ??Africa.

“It would be nice to see some Indian players, especially in the peak form of their careers, come over and play. If I had to pick, I’d choose all the current players: Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Virat, Shubman Gill, and Suryakumar Yadav,” he revealed.

De Villiers highlighted the excit?ement that players like Suryakumar could bring to the league.

“Imagine SKY playing here â€?that would be amazing!” De Villiers exclaimed.

De Villiers appeals for some retired Indian players

De Villiers reflected on former Indian cricketers who could bring value to the SA20 league, naming Robin Uthap?pa, and Irfan Pathan as potential players he would love to see participate. He noted that some of these retired stars are already active in various Masters Leag?ues globally, showcasing their enduring skills and appeal.

“If I think about past players, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik, or maybe even Irfan Pathan come to mind. Some of these players already participate in Masters Leagues around the world,” he added.

Also READ: From Kevin Pietersen t?o AB de Villiers: Here’s the elite panel of commentators for S?A20 2025

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As the excitement for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 builds, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Rajat Patidar has stepped into the spotlight, sharing insights on his teammates and their potential to dominate the six-hitting charts. Recently spotted at an RCB training camp during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, Patidar expressed optimism about the upcoming season and highlighted three players he believes could ?hit the longe??st sixes.

3 longest six hitters according to RCB’s Rajat Patidar in IPL 2025

When asked about who could hit the longest six in IPL 2025, Patidar confidently named new recruits Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, and Liam Livingstone as his top contenders. Each of these players has demonstrated remarkable hitting abilities in past seasons for their respective franchises, making them formidable assets for RCB. Patidar playfully challenged Dinesh Karthik, now part of RCB’s support staff, to organize a six-hitting contest among these players. Surprisingly Patidar didn’t mention his legendary teammate Virat Kohli who smashed 272 sixes in his IPL career so far.

â€?em>I feel that one among Tim David, Liam Livingstone, and Jitesh Sharma can hit the longest six this season. And DK bhai if you’re watching, you can keep a six-hitting challenge. Let’s see who hits the longest six,â€?Patidar said.

Also READ: ?3 reasons why Bhuvneshwar Kumar can win Purple Cap for RCB in IPL 2025

A balanced squad for success in IPL 2025

Looking ahead to IPL 2025, Patidar ??believed that RCB have assembled one of its best squads yet. With strategic retention decisions made before the mega auction, including keeping key players like himself, RCB aim to strike a balance across all departments—batting, bowling, and fielding. His confidence extends to the bowling unit as well, which he feels is well-equipped to handle various match situations.

“I personally feel we have one of the best sides. We are balanced and covering all departments from the top order, middle order, and finisher, If you look at the bowling group, we have covered everything and I did not feel like we’re lacking anywhere,” Patidar concluded.

This season will mark a pivotal moment for RCB as they seek their maiden IPL title after years of nea??r misses. With players like Patidar stepping up and taking ownership of their roles within the team framework, fans are hopeful that 2025 could be the year they finally lift the trophy.

Also READ: IPL 2025: R?CB’s wishlist for the mega auction finally d??isclosed

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, held on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, saw 577 players vying for contracts across the league. Among the standout franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) demonstrated a sharp focus in their player acquisitions, emerging with a squad of 19 players tailored to address both immediate and long-term needs. RCB made their biggest splashes by acquiring Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood and England opener Phil Salt, underlining their intention to ?fortify key areas of the l??ineup.

RCB’s legacy: Aspirations beyond popularity

Despite being one of the most beloved franchises ?in IPL history, RCB remains on a quest for their maiden title. Over the years, the team has been defined by its mix of legendary players and occasion??al heartbreaks. Entering IPL 2025, RCB sought to rewrite this narrative with a carefully calibrated strategy driven by a modernized management team and a clear vision.

RCB’s pre-auction plans were a key highlight, with meticulous preparation that included identifying specific players and roles crucial for success. A behind-the-scenes video, now shared on social media platform X, captured the strategic discussions between key figures, including head coach Andy Flower, director of cricket Mo Bobat, and mentor-batting coach Dinesh Karthik. This transparency offered fans rare insights into RCB’s ambition and approach to building a champio??nship-contending squad.

Retention strategy: Cementing the core

?Ahead of the auction, RC??B retained three pivotal players to ensure stability within their lineup:

1. Virat Kohli �The franchise’s talisman and one of the IPL’s most prolific batters.
2. Rajat Patidar �A dependable middle-order batter, crucial for anchoring the innings.
3. Yash Dayal �A promising left-arm seamer capable of delivering under pressure.

This trio forms the backbone of the team, balancing experience and potential. RCB’s retention strategy reflects a belief in continuity while enabling flexibility to ??strengthen other areas through the auction.

Also READ: 3? players who can captain Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025

RCB’s preferred targets for IPL 2025 mega auction revealed

Now, RCB’s pre-auction video sparked excitement and debate among supporters. Screenshots capturing the wishlist circulated widely on social media, with fans analyzing potential combinations and expressing anticipation for the upcoming season. The list underscored RCB’s commitment to building a balanced team capable of adapting to various match scenarios. Retaining Kohli, Patidar, and Dayal while targeting impactful acquisitions was seen as a step toward achieving the ultimate goal – a maiden IPL title. Surprisingly KL Rahul, once part of team’s squad of 2016, was not even the part of discussion. RCB’s wishlist for the auction, as revealed in their pre-event video, was structured around a well-defined vision:

Top-order stability

• Overseas Opener – RCB sought a dynamic overseas opener to complement Kohli’s steadiness at the top. The targeted players were Phil Salt, Faf du Plessis and Will Jacks.
• Venkatesh Iyer – Targeted as a versatile Indian all-rounder, providing options in both batting and bowling.

Middle-order firepower

• Big-Hitting Finishers – The likes of David Miller, Liam Livingstone, Tim David, Dewald Brevis, Donovan Ferreira, and Rovman Powell were identified for their ability to accelerate in death overs.

Wicketkeeper-batter

• Jitesh Sharma – A proven domestic performer, offering consistency with the bat and reliability behind the stumps.

Bowling arsenal

• Overseas Pacers – Names such as Kagiso Rabada, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis, and Matheesha Pathirana were on RCB’s radar for their ability to spearhead the attack.
• Indian Seamers – Options like T. Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, and Arshdeep Singh were considered to bolster the domestic pace unit.
• Spin Options – Potential acquisitions included Yuzvendra Chahal, Maheesh Theekshana, Noor Ahmad, and Allah Ghazanfar for depth in spin-friendly conditions.

#RCB target players for #IPL2025 Auction👇 pic.twitter.com/69OPZV5MEl

— RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) December 10, 2024

RCB’s revamped strategy and a??uction performance se??t the stage for a promising IPL 2025 campaign. By blending experienced stalwarts with emerging talents, the franchise aims to translate years of potential into tangible success. With meticulous planning, a talented core, and a management team equipped for modern challenges, RCB might finally turn their IPL fortunes around. The pressure of expectation looms large, but the squad’s depth and leadership inspire confidence.

Also READ: Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL 2025 Squad: Co??mplete players list of RCB after the mega auction

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The IPL 2025 mega auction was a blockbuster event that reshaped team rosters with dramatic bids and bold strategies. Among the star signings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made headlines by acquiring Jitesh Sharma for a massive INR 11 crore. This was a meteoric rise for the 31-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, who was earlier signed by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for just INR 20 lakh in 2022. His consistent performances in recent IPL seasons and his big-hitting prowess in the death overs have earned him a place among India’s rising stars in the T20I setup.

RCB’s possible vision for Jitesh Sharma

RCB targeted Jitesh as a key component in their quest for IPL glory. The team sought a replacement for veteran Dinesh Karthik, and Jitesh’s explosive hitting and adaptability made him the perfect fit. His ability to finish innings and his leadership credentials—he served as vice-captain for PBKS in the previous edition—added to his value.

The auction saw intense bidding, with PBKS using their Right to Match (R?TM) card at INR 7 crore. However, RCB’s determination to secur?e Jitesh prevailed as they increased their bid to INR 11 crore, securing one of the most exciting talents of the auction.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin predicts the captain of?? Royal Challengers B??engaluru (RCB) for IPL 2025

Jitesh opens up on qualities he will learn from Virat Kohli

Jitesh is thrilled about the opportunity to work under RCB icon Virat Kohli. Speaking to Times of India, Jitesh expressed his admiration for Kohli’s u?nmatched consistency and fitness levels, two qualities he would like to learn from the global superstar.

“I think I’ll try to learn from Kohli’s consistency and how he has kept himself fit and motivated over all these years,” expressed Jitesh.

Additionally, Jitesh looks forward to playing under Kohli, highlighting the former India captain’s energy and game involvement as a source of inspiration.

“It will be great to play under Virat Kohli. I would love to play under him because he is so energetic and enthusiastic—it can push my limits. A person who is always involved in the game can inspire me to push my game further,” added Jitesh.

Jitesh’s journey to IPL stardom

Jitesh has been a consistent performer in domestic and franchise cricket, earning a reputation as a dependable finisher. His fearless approach in the death overs and ability to clear the boundary with ease have made him a sought-after pl??ayer. Additionally, his sharp wicketkeeping skills add depth to his overall game.

The 31-year-old was rewarded with a call-up to the Indian T20I squad following his impressive IPL performances, cementing his place as one of the brightest talents in the country??.

Also READ: AB de Villiers reveals his choi??ce for RCB’s captaincy in IPL 2025

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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 Commission?er, 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 p??ermi?tted, 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 RE??AD: IPL and BCCI contracts: Top 5 highest-earning Indian cricketers

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 Tow?n, 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: R??avichandran Ashwin predicts the captai??n of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for IPL 2025

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As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction draws closer, franchises across the league are making strategic moves to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season. Among these, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have made a notable decision by appointing a new bowling coach, signalling their determination to improve their performance and challenge for the title in the upcoming?? IPL season.

RCB strengthens coaching staff with new bowling coach

RCB have appointed Omkar Salvi as their new bowling coach for the 2025 edition of the IPL. Salvi, an experienced figure in Indian cricket, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. His appointment comes at a crucial time, with the franchise looking to address longstanding concerns about their bowling attack. Salvi’s rich background in coaching, especially in domestic cricket, positions him to have a transformative impact on RCB’s bowling unit.

Salvi’s coaching career boasts significant achievements. He is best known for his role as the head coach of Mumbai’s team, where under his leadership, Mumbai clinched the prestigious Ranji Trophy in 2023-24. His team also triumphed in the Irani Cup in October 2024, further showcasing his tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of his bowlers. Salvi’s experience extends beyond domestic cricket; he was also part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) coaching s??etup as an assistant bowling coach, adding valuable IPL experience to his resume.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Mohammed Shami returns to GT; David Warner joins V?irat Kohli’s RCB in K. Srikkanth’s mock auction

A revamped coaching unit for IPL 2025 

For several seasons, RCB have struggled with their bowling department, which has been a significant concern for the franchise. The 2024 IPL season, in particular, highlighted these issues, with Yash Dayal being the team’s highest wicket-taker with just 15 wickets in 14 matches. Despite his contribution, Dayal did not feature in the top 15 highest wicket-takers for the season, a clear indication of the challenges RCB faced in the bowling department. With Salvi now on board, there is renewed hope that RCB can build a more potent and consistent bowling attack, addressing the issues that have plagued them for years.

In addition to Salvi’s appointment, RCB has also made another significant change to their coaching staff, bringing in Dinesh Karthik as the team’s batting ??coach and mentor. Karthik, a seasoned IPL player and a veteran of Indian cricket, brings invaluable experience to the team. With both Karthik overseeing the batt??ing and Salvi in charge of the bowling, RCB now boasts a dynamic coaching unit capable of improving both their strengths and addressing their weaknesses. This dual coaching setup is expected to foster better synergy within the squad and enhance their performance across all facets of the game.

With these new appointments, RCB are clearly aiming for a fresh start in IPL 2025, with the hope of finally clinching their first-ever IPL trophy. The addition of Karthik and Salvi to the coaching staff signals the franchise’s commitment to putting together a balanced and competitive team, capable of contending for the title. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how these strategic changes translate into on-field success for the RCB.

Also READ: 3 teams ??that?? can target Devdutt Padikkal in IPL 2025 mega auction

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The Abu Dhabi T10 2024 is all set to kick off in November, and this season promises to be bigger and more exciting with a star-studded lineup. The tournament will run from November 21 to December 2, ensuring no clash with other major cricket leagues such as the Big Bash League (BBL), SA20, ILT20, and New Zealand’s Super Smash.

Tournament expansion and new teams

For the first time, the Abu Dhabi T10 will feature a ten-team league format. The new entrants, Bolts Ajman and UP Nawabs, will join the existing lineup, adding fresh competition to the tournament. Teams have recently unveiled ?their list of new signings and retentions, setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead.

Star players to watch

Several big names in world cricket will be seen in action in this year’s tournament. Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik, Afghanistan’s spin wizard Rashid Khan, and England’s white-ball captain Jos Buttler are among the ?prominent figures who have signed up.

Buttler will be seen playing for the Deccan Gladiators, who have retained their core group, including Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, and Maheesh Theekshana. Meanwhile, Bangla Tigers have strengthened their squad by acquiring both Rashid and Karthik, along with Shakib Al Hasan, who recently announced his retirement f?rom T20Is.

Also READ: Virat Kohli or Joe Root? ?Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik names his choice

Strong lineup for defending champions

The defending champions, New York Strikers, have retained key players like Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine, and Mohammad Amir. Additionally, they have signed Sri Lanka’s Matheesha Pathirana, adding more firepower to their bowling lineup. Pathirana’s signing is expected to bolster the Strikersâ€?defens??e of their title.

Complete list of new signings and retentions

New York Strikers

• New Signings: Matheesha Pathirana, Donovan Ferreira
• Retentions: Kieron Pollard, Mohammad Amir, Sunil Narine, Akeal Hossain, Muhammad Waseem, Muhammad Jawadullah

Deccan Gladiators

• New Signings: Jos Buttler, Anrich Nortje, Marcus Stoinis
• Retentions: Maheesh Theekshana, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Tom Koher-Cadmore, Zahoor Khan

Delhi Bulls

• New Signings: Wanindu Hasaranga, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Wade
• Retentions: Rovman Powell, Muhammad Rohid, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazlahaq Farooqi, James Vince

Team Abu Dhabi

• New Signings: Jonny Bairstow, Lockie Ferguson, Shimron Hetmyer, AM Ghazanfar
• Retentions: Phil Salt, Noor Ahmad, and Kyle Mayers

Northern Warriors

• New Signings: Trent Boult, Finn Allen, Johnson Charles, Sherfane Rutherford, Saqib Mahmood
• Retentions: Colin Munro, Azmatullah Omarzai, Ankur Sangwan

Morrisville Samp Army

• New Signings: David Willey, Imad Wasim
• Retentions: Faf du Plessis, Qais Ahmad, Andries Gous

Bangla Tigers

• New Signings: Shakib Al Hasan, Rashid Khan, Liam Livingstone, Iftikhar Ahmed, Dinesh Karthik
• Retentions: Hazratullah Zazai, Dasun Shanaka, Josh Little

Chennai Brave Jaguars

• New Signings: Chris Lynn, Nuwan Thushara, Thisara Perera, Dan Lawrence, Rassie van der Dussen
• Retentions: Aayan Khan, George Munsey, Bhanuka Rajapaksa

UP Nawabs

New Signings: Rahmanulla??h Gurbaz, ?Dawid Malan, Tymal Mills, Adil Rashid, Andre Fletcher

Bolts Ajman

New Signings: James Neesham, Mujeeb?? Ur Rahman, Lungi Ngidi, Gulbadin Naib, Haider Ali

Also READ: Af??ghanistan star Rashid Khan begins a new chapter with lavish wedding ce??remony in Kabul

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Later this year, Team India will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series. The series, scheduled to begin on November 22 in Perth, mark the latest chapter in the iconic Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) rivalry between the two cricketing giants. This series holds immense significance, as both teams aim to assert dominance and secure a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. The Indian cricket team will set their sights on retaining the trophy and creatin?g history on Australian soil.

Schedule breakdown of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

The series opener is slated to take place in Perth, where the fast, bouncy conditions are expected to favor the home side. Following the opening match, the prestigious Adelaide Oval will host a day-night Test from December 6, allowing both teams to test their skills under the lights. Brisbane will then host the third Test from December 14 to 18, with the final two matches scheduled at iconic venues – Melbourne (December 26-30) for the traditional Boxing Day Test, and Sydney (January 3-7) to close out the series. The outcome of this tour could significantly impact India’s chances of qualifying for the WTC final, which is scheduled for June 2025 in England.

India aiming for historic Test series hat-trick on Australian soil

India are on the verge of achieving a historic feat as they head into this series. Under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, India will be eyeing their third consecutive Test series win in Australia, having previously triumphed in 2018-19 and 2020-21. If successful, India will become the first Asian team to record a Test series hat-trick in Australia. Given that Australia are the reigning WTC, this achievement would elevate India’s s??tature as one of the most f??ormidable cricketing nations. Team India, bolstered by a blend of experience and emerging talent, are eager to cement their legacy in the annals of cricket history.

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Dinesh Karthik’s bold prediction: Australia hold the upper hand

Ahead of the high-octane series, former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik shared his insights, predicting a tough chal?lenge for India. Karthik acknowledged that although India have a chance to make history, Australia holds the upper hand on their home turf.

“I can’t tell the exact score line, but I do think Australia have the upper hand. It’s going to be very hard for India to beat them on Australian shores for the third time on the bounce.  They will face an in-form Australian side. It’s not by chance they won the World Test Championship last time. It’s no easy task. But if India do it, it will be one of the greatest things the Indian cricket team has ever achieved, no doubt about it.” Karthik stated during an interview with Cricbuzz.

Australia seeking redemption

While India dominated the Test series on their home soil earlier this year, Australia managed to exact some revenge by winning the 2023 WTC Final. Pat Cummins and his side outclassed India in the WTC final held in June, further intensifying the rivalry between the two teams. Despite India’s recent dominance in bilateral series, Australia will be eager to reclaim their place as victors in the BGT, making this upcoming series a battle for redemption. With India last defeating Australia in their 2023 home series 2-1, the stakes for the series in Australia have never been higher.

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