In the opening game of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan faced a disappointing defeat against New Zealand, losing by 60 r??uns in Karachi. The match, marked by a slow batting performance from former Pakistan captain Babar Azam, drew significant attention and criticism.

New Zealand set a formidable target, scoring 320 runs for the loss of five wickets. Will Young and Tom Latham were the s??tars for the Black Caps, both scoring centuries. In response, Pakistan struggled to keep pace with the required run rate, ultimately being bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs.

Suresh Raina takes a hilarious dig at Babar Azam

Babar’s performance was a focal point of discussion, as he managed 64 runs off 90 balls. His innings included six fours and one six but was characterized by a lack of aggression and an inability to rotate the strike effectively. This slow approach not only put pressure on his teammates but also led to his dismissal at a crucial moment in the chase.

Former India international Suresh Raina did not hold back in his critique of Babar’s batting style. On a broadcast with JioHotstar, Raina expressed his disappointment, stating, “The intent is missing,” and humorously added that even “ChatGPT will not have an answer for Babar Azam’s slow batting” during the match. He further suggested that if Pakistan continued to underperform, fans might resort to filing complaints against players at local police stations i??n Karachi.

Also READ: PAK vs NZ – Fans brutally troll Babar Azam for his slow knock during opening game of Champions Trophy 2025

Implications of defeat for Pakistan

The loss is particularly stinging for Pakistan, who were hosting an ICC event for the first time in nearly three decades. With high expectations as defending champions, their performance against New Zealand has raised concerns about their prospects in the tournament moving forward. The criticism surrounding Babar’s batting style is likely to intensify if he does not adapt his approach in the remaining matches – against India and Bangladesh.

As Pakistan looks to bounce back from this defeat, they must address their batting inconsistencie??s to remain competitive in the tournament. The next matches will be crucial for both team morale and their chance??s of advancing to the knockout stage of the Champions Trophy 2025.

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Tom Latham, Will Young sizzle in New Zealand’s emphatic win over Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025 opener

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The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will start from February 19, with teams racing against time to finalize their perfect squad befor?e the February 12 deadline of the squad submission.

Dubai’s conditions pose a selection challenge for India

As the tournament edges closer, India faces a crucial selection dilemma – deciding the ideal spin combination for the spin-friendly conditions of Dubai, where all their group-stage matches will be played. With Dubai’s pitches traditionally assisting spinners, India finds themselves in a tough spot while selecting its primary spin option for the Champions Trophy.

While Kuldeep Yadav has been India’s go-to wrist spinner in ODIs, the recent emergence of mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy has sparked debates over who should be India’s first-choice spinner. Amidst growing discussions, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has stepped forward to express his opinion.

With just days left before the final squad submission, the Indian selectors must make a tough call – rely on Kuldeep’s experience or gamble on Chakravarthy’s mystery spin. Given Dubai’s conditions, spinners are expected to play a significant role, making this decision all the more crucial for India’s Champions Trophy campaign.

Suresh Raina’s choice for the Champions Trophy 2025

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has voiced his support for Kuldeep’s inclusion in the final squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, despite Chakravarthy’s impressive debut in the second ODI against England. Raina believed that Kuldeep’s experience in high-pressure situations gives him an edge over the mystery spinner, who has been making waves since his return to international cricket. Speaking on Star Sports, Raina highlighted Kuldeep’s versatili??ty and ability to perform?? in big tournaments.

“I think Varun is more used to bowling in T20Is for now, while Kuldeep has variety and wicket-taking ability. Most importantly, he rises to the occasion in big tournaments. I still remember the way he clean-bowled Babar Azam in the ODI World Cup 2019. He has a different skill in his hands, and he carries massive experience of playing big matches,” Raina said.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Suresh Raina?? makes bold prediction on Virat Ko??hli for the India vs Pakistan face-off

Varun Chakravarthy vs Kuldeep Yadav

Chakravarthy made his much-anticipated ODI debut in Cuttack on February 9, where he delivered a disciplined spell of 1/53 in 10 overs, claiming the wicket of Philip Salt. Since his return to the international circuit in October 2024, Chakravarthy has been a standout performer, especially in the T20 format. His success in the recently concluded T20I series against England, where he bagged 14 wickets in five matches at an astonishing average of 9.85, made him a strong contender for the Champions Trophy squad. His overall T20I record since his comeback has been nothing short of phenomenal – 31 wickets in 12 innings at an economy of 7.18 and an average of 11.25, including two five-wicket hauls.

Kuldeep has been a consistent performer for India in the ODI format and is currently part of the squad for both the England series and the Champions Trophy. He showcased his effectiveness in the first ODI in Nagpur, finishing with figures of 1/53.  Earlier, he had claimed four wickets in three ODIs against Sri Lanka ??in?? 2024, further solidifying his case for selection.

Also READ: Suresh Raina predicts how many centuries Virat Kohli ?will score in the Champions Trophy 2025

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The UP Warriorz have officially announced their new captain for the upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 season, bringing a fresh leadership approach to the team. Instead of a conventional social media post or press release, the franchise chose an innovative way to unveil their new skipper. They enlisted the help of former men’s Indian cricketer Suresh Raina, a celebrated figure in Indian cricket known for his contributions to the national team and the men’s IPL.

Suresh Raina announces new captain of UP Warriorz for WPL 2025

During the pre-match show on Star Sports ahead of the second India vs England ODI, Raina took center stage to make the highly anticipated announcement, unveiling Deepti Sharma as the new captain of UP Warriorz for the WPL 2025 season. The moment was a special one for both the franchise and its fans, as Raina, a respected figure in Indian cricket, formally introduced Deepti as the team’s leader. To mark the occasion, the experienced all-rounder was presented with the UP Warriorz jersey by Raina, symbolizing the beginning of a new leadership era for the team. The gesture not only emphasized Deepti’s growing stature in women’s cricket but also signaled the franchise’s intent to build a strong and competitive squad under her captaincy.

Talented all-rounder takes over from Alyssa Healy

Alyssa Healy, who led UP Warriorz in the 2024 WPL, could not guide the tea?m to the playoffs, as they struggled to maintain consistency throughout the tournament. Despite possessing a talented squad, the franchise finished fourth in the points table, managing to secure only three wins while suffering five defeats. Their campaign was marked by flashes of brilliance but was ultimately marred by inconsistency in both batting and bowling performances. With a fresh leadership approach, the Warriorz have now placed the??ir trust in Deepti, hoping that her all-round skills, tactical acumen, and experience will help turn the team’s fortunes around and lead them to a much-improved outing in WPL 2025.

Also READ: Harmanpreet Kaur explains how WPL 2025 will ??play a key role in Indi?a’s ODI World Cup preparations

Standout performance in WPL 2024

Notably, Deepti was a standout performer in the 2024 WPL season, finishing as the Most Valuable Player of the Series. In eight matches, she showcased her all-round brilliance by amassing 295 runs and taking 10 wickets, accu??mulating an impressive 644.4 impact points.

With her leadership skills and match-winning abilities, Deepti will be aiming to lead UP Warriorz to the??ir maiden WPL title in the 2025 season.

Also READ: WPL 2025:?? Kate Cross reveals the reason behind her withdrawal from the Wome??n’s Premier League

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

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Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted in Pakistan and the UAE. The prestigious tournament will bring together the top eight ODI teams, competing for one of the most coveted trophies in international cricket. With high-stakes matches expected, fa??ns are looking forward to intense rivalries, thrilling encounters, and standout performances from cricket’s biggest stars.

High expectations from Virat Kohli and other Indian batters

Team India will enter the tournament with a formidable squad, and all eyes will be on their star batters, especially Virat Kohli. Known for his consistency in ICC tournaments, Kohli has delivered on numerous occasions in high-pressure games. Alongside him, batters like Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and KL Rahul are also expected to play crucial roles in India’s campaign. With the tournament being played in subcontinental conditions, India’s batting lineup will be key to their chances of lifting the trophy.

Also READ: Will ??Varun Chakravarthy play in the Champ??ions Trophy 2025? Rohit Sharma weighs in

Suresh Raina predicts Virat Kohli’s century tally

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has shared his prediction for Kohli’s performance in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Speaking to Sports18, Raina expressed confidence in Kohli’s ability to perform in ICC tournaments, highlighting his crucial innings in the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. He reckoned that Kohli will regain his form and deliver impactful performances in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Predicting a strong tournament for the Indian batter, Raina stated that Kohli is li??kely to score three centuries in the event.

“Look, I think Kohli will come into form. He has scored runs in the knockouts of ICC tournaments; we cannot forget his innings in the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. I think Virat will score three centuries in the ICC Champions Trophy,” said Raina.

Also READ: Suresh Rai??na p??redicts the ‘Player of the Tournament�for Champions Trophy 2025

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The much-awaited inaugural edition of the Legend 90 League is set to begin on February 6, 2025, at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The tournament wil?l witness 7 teams competing with each other, with the final match scheduled for February 17.

Cricketing legends headline the tournament

This exciting tournament will feature a star-studded lineup, including former Indian cricketing heroes like Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina. Seven teams will compete in t??he event, which promises to showcase the talent and experience of? some of the finest cricketers from around the globe.

Format and playing conditions

The tournament will follow a distinctive 90-ball format, where each team will play a total of 90 balls per innings. Over the course of the league, 21 matches will take place before the final. Teams are required to use five bowlers, with each bowler limited to three overs, though one bowler can bowl an additi??onal over, allowing for strategic depth.

Complete schedule of Legend 90 League 2025

Also READ: From Suresh Raina to Shikhar Dhawan: Star players set to shine in Legend??s 90 League 2025

Squads

Rajasthan Kings: Ankit Rajpoot, Phil Mustard, Shahbaz Nadeem, Faiz Fazal, Shadab Jakati, Jaskaran Malhotra, Imran Tahir, Jaykishan Kolsawala, Dwayne Bravo, Raje??sh Bishnoi, Corey Anderson, Pankaj Rao, Samiullah Shinwari, Rajat Singh, Ashley Nurse, Dawlat Zadran, and Manpreet Gony

Gujarat Samp Army: Obus Pienaar, William Perkins, Saurabh Tiwari, Abhishek Jhunjhunwala, Kesrick Williams, Shapoor Zadran, Jesal Karia, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Yusuf Pathan, Mausif Khan, Moeen Ali, Mohammad Ashra?ful, Chaturanga de Silva, Miguel Cummins, and Navin Stewart.

Delhi Royals: Lendl Simmons, Danushka Gunathilaka, Angelo Perera, Sharad Lumba, Bipul Sharma, Lakhwinder Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, Rajwinder Singh, Rayad Emrit, Ross Taylor, Jerome Taylor, Den??esh Ramdin, Sumit Narwal, and Parvinder Awana.

Big Boys: Matt Prior, ??Shannon Gabriel??, Ishan Malhotra, Varun Aaron, Monu Kumar, Neil Broom, Chris Gayle, Karanveer Singh, Chirag Gandhi, Robin Bist, Vinod Chawariya, Upul Tharanga, Tamim Iqbal, Naman Sharma, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Kapil Rana, Herschelle Gibbs, and Abdur Razzak.

Chhattisgarh Warriors: Siddarth Kaul, Sheldon Jackson, Pawan Negi, Kevon Cooper, Suresh Raina, Vishal Kushwah, Martin Guptill, ??Abhishek Sakuja, Ambati Rayudu, Amit Verma, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Amit Mishra, Rishi Dhawan, Kalim Khan, Unmukt Chand??, Manoj Singh, Abhimanyu Mithun, and Colin de Grandhomme.

Haryana Gladiators: Pawan Suyal, Subodh Bhati, Praveen Gupta, Abu Nechim, Anureet Singh, Imran Khan, Asela Gunaratne, Ishank Jaggi, Harbh??ajan Singh, Nagendra Chaudhary, Ben Dunk, Rikki Clarke, Peter Trego, Chad?wick Walton, and Manan Sharma.

Dubai Giants: Shakib Al Hasan, Seekkuge Prasanna, Thisara Perera, Siddharth Trivedi, Kevin O’Brien, Hamilton Masakadza, Liam Plunkett, Dwayne Smith, Christopher Mpofu, Luke Fletcher, Brendan Taylor, Rahul Yadav, Richard Levi, and Kennar Lewis

Broadcast and Live Streaming details:

• Indian fans can watch the live streaming of the Legend 90 League 2025 on the FanCode app and website.
• The broadcasting of the exciting tournament will be available on Sony Sports Network.

Also READ: ??Suresh Raina predicts the ‘Player of the Tournament�for Champions Trophy 2025

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The high-voltage Legends 90 League 2025 is all set to kick off on February 6, bringing an exciting blend of nostalgia and? competitive cricket to fans worldwide. Raipur has been chosen as the exclusive venue for the tournament, ensuring a thrilling atmosphere throughout the event. The competition will feature a unique 90-ball format, adding a fresh dimension to the game, where teams will have to strategize differently to maximize their scoring opportunities and bowling effectiveness. The grand finale of the tournament is scheduled for February 18, marking the culmination of what promises to be an action-packed series of matches.

Cricket enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing some of the sport’s most celebrated names in action. The Legends 90 League will see the return of Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and several other cricketing greats, including bo?th Indian stalwarts and global superstars who have entertained fans for years. With batting maestros, all-round powerhouses, and seasoned bowlers set to ta??ke the field, the tournament is expected to deliver high-octane contests, rekindling memories of past glories while introducing an exciting new format.

Seven teams to compete for glory

The tournament will feature seven teams, namely:

• Dubai Giants
• Chhattisgarh Warriors
• Haryana Gladiators
• Gujarat Samp Army
• Big Boys
• Delhi Royals
• Rajasthan Kings

Each squad is packed with experienced international and domestic cricketers, bringing an exciting mix of batt??ing powerhouses, all-rounders, and bowling maestros.

Also READ: Suresh Raina predicts the ‘Player of the Tour?nament�for Champ??ions Trophy 2025

Prominent names in the tournament

Dhawan, one of India’s finest white-ball openers, will lead the charge for Delhi Royals, alongside Ross Taylor and Lendl Simmons.

Raina, known for his explosive batting, will play for Chhattisgarh Warriors, joined by Ambati Rayudu and Martin Guptill.

Harbhajan Singh will spearhead the spin attack for Haryana Gladiators, while all-rounder Yusuf Pathan wil??l b??ring his power-hitting prowess to Gujarat Samp Army.

Dwayne Bravo, one of the best T20 all-rounders, will feature for Rajasthan Kings, alongside Corey Anderson and Imran Tahir.

Other notable players include Dwayne Smith, Kevin O’Brien, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Tamim Iqbal, Upul Tharanga, Moeen Ali, and Matt Prior.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Suresh Raina makes bold prediction on Vir??at Kohli for the India vs Pakistan face-off

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The much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner, with matches scheduled to take place in Pakistan and the UAE. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting this global event, which marks the return of the prestigious tournament after eight years. The excitement and hype surrounding the competition are palpable as fans gear up to watch top teams battle for glory in c?hallenging conditions.

Predictions and analysis build up the excitement

As the tournament draws closer, experts and fans alike have started sharing their predictions and analysis about key players and potential match-winners. Discussions about team strengths, star performers, and strategies are heating up, adding to the build-up for what promises to be a thrilling spectacle. The Champions Trophy is known for creating legends and producing memorable performances, and the ??2025 edition is expected to be no different. Several big names have already been tipped to shine, with many predicting close contests and exciting cricket throughout the event.

Also READ: Harbhajan Singh predicts the 4 semifinalists of Champions Troph?y 2025

Suresh Raina names who can become Player of the Tournament

Joining the bandwagon of predictions, former India cricketer Suresh Raina has thrown his weight behind India’s rising star, Shubman Gill. While speaking to Star Sports, Raina expressed his confidence in the young opener’s abilities to shine on the grand stage.

“I won’t be surprised if Shubman Gill becomes the Player of the Tournament this Champions Trophy 2025,” said Raina.

In addition to his batting responsibilities, Gill will also serve as the vice-captain of the Indian team for the tournament. This leadership role adds another layer of responsibility on the young cricketer’s shoulders. Expectations will be sky-high from the vice-captain, not just for his performances with the bat but also for his ability to support skipper Rohit Sharma in making crucial decisions on the field.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Mohammad Asif predicts the? four semi-finalists of Champions Trophy 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also READ: Suresh Raina names the player India will regret missing in ICC Champion??s Trophy 2025

India’s road to Champions Trophy 2025

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

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

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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! Sunil Gavaskar picks the favourites for Champions Tr?ophy 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 REA??D??: Sanjay Bangar reveals his playing XI for India’s opening game in Champions Trophy 2025

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