RCB's Swastik Chikara humorously pranked Virat Kohli by using his perfume, amusing the team. RCB defeated KKR with Kohli's crucial performance and prepare to face CSK next.

RCB's Swastik Chikara Pranks Virat Kohli

Swastik Chikara humorously pranked Virat Kohli with a bold perfume stunt, leaving RCB teammates entertained. As RCB celebrates victory over KKR, they prepare to challenge CSK in their upcoming match.

Swastik Chikara humorously pranked Virat Kohli by using his perfume. Caught on video, it left teammates amused. RCB defeated KKR with key contributions from Kohli and bowlers Krunal Pandya and Josh Hazlewood. They now prepare to face CSK.

In an unexpected turn of events within the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp, 19-year-old batter Swastik Chikara left his teammates in stitches with his audacious antics in the dressing room.
According to a video shared by RCB, Chikara brazenly rummaged through franchise icon Virat Kohli's bag and unabashedly sprayed himself with Kohli's perfume right in front of the man himself.
This bold move left pacer Yash Dayal and RCB captain Rajat Patidar visibly astonished, with neither having anticipated such a breach of privacy.
Dayal recounted, "We were sitting in the dressing room after our last game in Kolkata. He just went up to Virat Kohli's bag, took out a perfume bottle, and used it without asking. Everyone started laughing. He was just sitting there, completely casual."
Patidar, who captained RCB to their first IPL 2025 victory against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), added, "Virat bhai was right there. I was wondering what this guy is doing."
While some of Chikara's teammates might have found his actions unconventional, the young player's explanation suggested he was unfazed by Kohli's presence. "He's our elder brother, isn't he? I was just checking to make sure he doesn't use a bad one. So I tried it. When he asked how it was, I said it's nice. I was only checking it for him," Chikara rationalized.
Meanwhile, RCB savors a six-day hiatus between matches. Fresh from their victory over defending champions KKR, RCB is set to face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday.
In a formidable display, Kohli, with 59 not out off 36 balls, and Phil Salt, who scored 56 off 31 balls, forged a 95-run partnership for the opening wicket, helping RCB chase down KKR's challenging total of 174/8 in just 16.2 overs, finishing at 177 for three.
Earlier in the match, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane notched up a commendable 56, establishing a 103-run second-wicket partnership with Sunil Narine (44 off 26 balls), momentarily placing KKR in a strong position to surpass the 200-run mark.
However, RCB's bowlers, led exceptionally by left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya (3/29), staged a remarkable comeback, with pacer Josh Hazlewood also claiming two wickets, securing a commanding win for RCB.

Punjab Kings won against Gujarat Titans by 11 runs in IPL 2025. Shreyas Iyer scored an unbeaten 97, while Vyshak's bowling curtailed Gujarat's chase.

Punjab Kings Beat Gujarat: IPL 2025 Highlights

In IPL 2025, Punjab Kings edged out Gujarat Titans by 11 runs, powered by Shreyas Iyer's unbeaten 97. Vijaykumar Vyshak's economical bowling was also key in their narrow victory.

Punjab Kings triumphed over Gujarat Titans by 11 runs in IPL 2025, with Shreyas Iyer's 97 not out and Vijaykumar Vyshak&rsquo;s strategic bowling making significant impacts.

In a thrilling IPL 2025 contest on Tuesday, Punjab Kings emerged victorious against Gujarat Titans by a narrow 11-run margin in a high-octane match. Led by their new captain, Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings posted an imposing total of 243/5.
Iyer, who was the standout performer with an unbeaten 97 off just 42 balls, lit up the field with nine sixes and five boundaries, earning the 'Player of the Match' accolade.
However, not everyone agreed with this decision. Ravichandran Ashwin, currently with Chennai Super Kings, endorsed Vijaykumar Vyshak as the real hero of the game.
Vyshak, introduced as an impact substitute, bowled under intense pressure and executed his plans with precision to stymie Gujarat Titans' scoring momentum.&nbsp;
Entering the match in the 15th over with Gujarat at a formidable 169/2, Vyshak conceded just five runs in each of his first two overs. Despite giving away 18 runs in his third over, his economical bowling at a crucial juncture left Gujarat needing 27 off the last over, which they couldn't achieve.
Ashwin, elaborating on his YouTube channel, acknowledged Iyer&rsquo;s significant contribution but highlighted Vyshak&rsquo;s impact as a game-changer.
"His brilliant death bowling, especially in the 17th and 19th overs, was pivotal. No wickets fell to him, yet his ability to restrict runs was instrumental. For me, Vyshak was the true MVP," Ashwin commented.
Iyer, praised for his leadership and batting prowess, showcased his adaptability as noted by JioStar expert Kane Williamson. The Kiwi veteran commended Iyer&rsquo;s improved handling of short-pitched deliveries and his broad scoring range.
Williamson described Iyer's innings as a masterclass of high standards, emphasizing his ability to tackle top bowlers like Rashid Khan with composure and skill.
&ldquo;Shreyas has evolved remarkably, addressing past vulnerabilities and becoming a versatile threat across the ground,&rdquo; remarked Williamson. &ldquo;His 97 not out wasn't just runs on the board; it was a statement of capability and leadership.&rdquo;
The match encapsulated the competitive spirit of IPL, leaving fans eager for more such captivating encounters in the league.

Harbhajan Singh vows to improve commentary quality, as Punjab Kings beat Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025 by 11 runs. Arshdeep Singh shines.

Harbhajan Acknowledges Criticism; PBKS Wins

Harbhajan Singh acknowledges fan feedback on Hindi commentary. Punjab Kings defeat Gujarat Titans by 11 runs. Arshdeep Singh excels in their first IPL 2025 win.

Harbhajan Singh addresses commentary critique as Punjab Kings defeat Gujarat Titans by 11 runs, with Arshdeep Singh leading the bowlers.

Former Indian cricket spinner Harbhajan Singh recently addressed a fan's criticism about the quality of Hindi commentary during cricket matches.
Harbhajan, who is part of the current commentary team for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), responded positively to feedback that suggested modern commentary focuses more on humor and poetry rather than being informative.
Taking to his account on X (formerly Twitter), Harbhajan acknowledged the feedback, saying, "Thank you for the input. We will work on it."
In other IPL action, Punjab Kings (PBKS) clinched a thrilling 11-run victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in a high-scoring match. Defending a formidable score of 243/5, Punjab limited Gujarat to 232/5.
Gujarat's innings started strongly with Sai Sudharsan and captain Shubman Gill posting a 61-run partnership. Glenn Maxwell broke this partnership by dismissing Gill for 33.
Sudharsan continued to fire, leading with 74 off 41 balls, including five fours and six sixes, before falling to left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh at 145/2 in 12.3 overs.
Jos Buttler and Sherfane Rutherford kept Gujarat's hopes alive with a 54-run partnership.
Buttler scored a half-century but was dismissed for 54 by Marco Jansen, while Rahul Tewatia was run out for six. Needing fast runs, Rutherford scored 46 off 28 balls, but Arshdeep Singh struck again, dismissing him as Punjab edged closer to victory.
Arshdeep Singh was the standout bowler for Punjab, securing figures of 2/36 in four overs, while Jansen and Maxwell each took a wicket, sealing Punjab&rsquo;s first win in the tournament.
Earlier in the match, after winning the toss and electing to bowl, Gujarat faced a strong start from Punjab's debutant Priyansh Arya, who hit 47 off 23 balls.
His innings included seven boundaries and two sixes before falling to the seasoned Rashid Khan, leaving PBKS at 79/2.
Afghan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai made an immediate impact with a six off compatriot Rashid Khan.
Despite his early promise, his innings ended at 16 off 15 balls, with Sai Kishore dismissing him and taking the wicket of Glenn Maxwell for a golden duck on the next ball.
Marcus Stoinis contributed alongside Iyer in a substantial 57-run partnership before Sai Kishore struck again, claiming Stoinis for 20. Punjab surged past 200 in 17.4 overs, with Iyer and Shashank Singh driving aggression in the final overs.
Their explosive 81-run partnership saw PBKS achieve a formidable total. Iyer was unbeaten on 97, while Shashank smashed 44 from 16 balls, highlighted by a dominant final over against Mohammed Siraj.
For Gujarat, Sai Kishore was the standout bowler with three wickets, complemented by Rashid Khan and Kagiso Rabada picking up one wicket each, although all GT bowlers struggled against Punjab's onslaught.

Punjab Kings' IPL 2025 opener saw Maxwell fall for a golden duck, but Shreyas Iyer's unbeaten 97 led the team to a stellar 243/5 against Gujarat Titans.

Maxwell's Golden Duck, Shreyas Stars in IPL 2025 Opener

Glenn Maxwell's golden duck was a setback, but Shreyas Iyer's captivating 97* led Punjab Kings to a formidable 243/5 in their IPL 2025 opener against Gujarat Titans.

Maxwell fell for a golden duck as Iyer's unbeaten 97 propelled Punjab Kings to 243/5 against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025 opener.

Punjab Kings had high expectations when they brought Glenn Maxwell back into their team at the IPL 2025 auction.
However, the Australian power-hitter's return to the franchise started on a disappointing note. In his first match against Gujarat Titans, Maxwell faced a setback with a first-ball dismissal, falling for a golden duck.
Attempting a reverse sweep on his opening delivery against R Sai Kishore, Maxwell was adjudged LBW. The situation was further aggravated as replays revealed the ball would have missed the stumps, yet Maxwell opted not to utilize the Decision Review System (DRS). This marked Maxwell's 19th duck in IPL history, setting an unenviable record for the most ducks by any batter.
In a match played on Tuesday, Punjab Kings showcased a commanding performance led by their new skipper, Shreyas Iyer. Iyer made a remarkable debut as captain, crafting a scintillating unbeaten 97 off just 42 balls, propelling his team to a formidable total of 243 for five.
His innings was embellished with nine towering sixes and five exquisite fours, narrowly missing out on his first IPL century. The innings concluded on a thrilling note as Shashank Singh unleashed an explosive cameo, smacking 44 off 16 balls, including six fours and two sixes.
A promising start for Punjab was set by Priyansh Arya, who demonstrated aggression from the outset.
Arya, a Rs 3.8 crore acquisition for PBKS at the last auction, hammered 47 from 23 balls. His assault included a massive six over Mohammed Siraj followed by a boundary, capitalizing on the power play to propel Punjab to 73/1 after six overs.
Kagiso Rabada provided Gujarat Titans with their first breakthrough when he had Prabhsimran Singh caught in the deep. This allowed Shreyas Iyer to stride to the crease, where he immediately impressed with a stylish drive and a six over deep square leg off Rabada.
Arya's onslaught continued against Arshad Khan, seizing 21 runs off the fifth over. His efforts were halted, however, by Rashid Khan, who dismissed Arya with a sharply turning delivery that induced a top edge.
Following Arya's departure, Afghanistan&rsquo;s Azmatullah Omarzai offered a brief but bright response, launching Rashid Khan for a six off his first ball. Yet, PBKS faced a setback when R Sai Kishore dismissed both Omarzai and Maxwell in successive deliveries, bringing the team to 105/4 in the 11th over.
Nonetheless, Shreyas Iyer's masterclass was far from over. Demonstrating immense skill and power, he reached his half-century in a mere 27 deliveries. Exploiting the bowlers, Shreyas lofted Sai Kishore for successive sixes and later targeted Rashid Khan, dispatching him for consecutive sixes, both straight down the ground and over deep mid-wicket.
Mohammed Siraj returned to bowl, but faced the onslaught of both Shreyas and Marcus Stoinis, each hitting a maximum, further fortifying Punjab's dominating innings.
The Punjab Kings' dazzling performance has sent a strong message in this edition of the IPL, with Shreyas Iyer's inauguration as captain proving to be an auspicious beginning despite Glenn Maxwell's unprecedented duck.

An 18-year-old fanatic braves legal trouble for a chance to meet cricket legend Virat Kohli at the IPL 2025 opener. Despite the arrest and a stadium ban, the young fan achieved a lifetime dream while Kohli ensured his safety. Dhoni shares insights on his bond with Kohli.

Fan Arrested for Bold Kohli Meeting at IPL Game

During IPL 2025 opening match, fan Rituparno Pakhira was arrested for breaching security to meet Virat Kohli. Kohli ensured fan's safety amid the chaos. MS Dhoni also reflects on camaraderie with Kohli, highlighting cricket's power to unite.

An 18-year-old fan arrested for breaching security to meet his idol, Virat Kohli, during an IPL match at Eden Gardens. Kohli ensured the fan's safety, advising security to treat him gently. The event underscores cricket's power to inspire and connect people.

An 18-year-old cricket enthusiast, Rituparno Pakhira, found himself in a brief stint behind bars and banned from entering Eden Gardens for the current Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
His crime? Breaching security to meet his idol, Virat Kohli, up close. Pakhira's bold move came during Saturday&rsquo;s IPL 2025 opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Despite the consequences, Pakhira remains unremorseful. He cherishes the moment he got to touch Kohli&rsquo;s feet and even received a hug from the cricketing legend. During the disruption, Kohli, renowned for his calm demeanor on the field, handled the situation with grace. According to Pakhira, Kohli inquired about his name, advised him to run away quickly, and instructed security personnel to escort him out gently, ensuring he was unharmed. This interaction was reported by the Times of India.
Pakhira revealed he had meticulously planned his daring act, determined to meet the man he reveres. "I had planned to enter the ground at any cost and prepared myself. I am very happy that I was successful and that I could touch my god," he shared, standing by his bold actions as one of the most memorable experiences of his life.
The incident unfolded shortly after Kohli reached his half-century, with the euphoric fan leaping over the guardrails, racing towards him, and grabbing his legs, much to the surprise of the crowd and players alike.
Meanwhile, in another conversation reflecting on the bond between cricket icons, former India captain MS Dhoni spoke about his relationship with Kohli. Despite stepping down as India's Test captain, Dhoni reflected on their continued friendship and respect for one another. Dhoni explained their past discussions on strategic plays and their shared growth through those interactions.&nbsp;
"We had honest exchanges about situations," said Dhoni, while speaking on Jio Hostar. "Initially, it was a relationship between a captain and a young player, but over time, we became friends. Even today, we share that bond, though there's always a line of respect between a senior and a junior. Now that neither of us is captain, we get more time to talk before matches."
Such stories highlight the profound impact cricket personalities have on their fans, as well as the camaraderie shared among players who have shaped Indian cricket history.

Avesh Khan returns for IPL 2025 after recovery, boosting LSG's bowling lineup amid injury setbacks.

Avesh Khan Boosts LSG for IPL 2025 Return

Avesh Khan cleared for IPL 2025 after recovering from injury, strengthening LSG amidst key player absences.

Avesh Khan is cleared for IPL 2025, boosting LSG, amidst injury woes. He's set to return against SRH.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), pacer Avesh Khan has received clearance from the BCCI to participate in the IPL 2025. The bowler, who had been recovering from a right knee injury, was given the green light following a thorough evaluation by the BCCI's medical team this week, according to ESPNcricinfo.
Avesh has been sidelined since late January, having last represented India in a T20I match in South Africa last November. His knee issue, attributed to his heavy domestic workload, also kept him out of Madhya Pradesh's final league game in the Ranji Trophy.
The pacer recently completed his rehabilitation at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, passing one of his last fitness tests on Monday. Though his exact arrival date in the LSG camp remains uncertain, he is anticipated to be fit for their subsequent match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 27.
This is welcome news for LSG, who are eager to rebound following a defeat against Delhi Capitals (DC) in their season opener in Visakhapatnam on Monday.
The team has been contending with several injuries affecting their key Indian pacers. Mayank Yadav, already nursing a lumbar stress injury, has now encountered a toe injury. Meanwhile, Bengal pacer Akash Deep is gradually regaining fitness after a back injury from India's Test tour of Australia. Furthermore, left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan has been ruled out of the IPL 2025 due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear sustained last December and has been replaced by Shardul Thakur.
In the aftermath of the loss to Delhi Capitals, LSG assistant coach Lance Klusener acknowledged the challenges posed by their diminished bowling reserves.
"Our current situation doesn't afford us much depth with the ball, so we'll have to improvise until our players return," Klusener stated during the post-match media interaction.
Despite the constraints, Klusener remains optimistic, emphasizing the opportunity for younger talents and highlighting Shardul Thakur's performance, with two wickets in his first over.
"As we head to Hyderabad for our next match, we'll need to excel with the bat. It&rsquo;s a chance for some of our young players to step up. I was particularly pleased with Shardul Thakur's impact in the first over," he added.

Gujarat Titans face Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 opener at Narendra Modi Stadium. Under Shubman Gill, GT aims for victory with new signings and strategic prep.

Gujarat Titans vs Punjab Kings: IPL 2025 Opener Preview

The IPL 2025 opener features Gujarat Titans against Punjab Kings at Ahmedabad's iconic stadium. Titans look to reclaim glory under Shubman Gill's leadership, showcasing fresh signings and strategic readiness against Punjab's challenges.

Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill, face Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 opener. With new signings and strategic preparations, GT aims for victory at Narendra Modi Stadium.

Gujarat Titans (GT) are gearing up to kick off their IPL 2025 campaign with a match against Punjab Kings at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad this Tuesday.
After clinching the IPL title in 2022 and finishing as runners-up in 2023, the Titans experienced a slump, ending the 2024 season in seventh place.
Now, under the leadership of captain Shubman Gill, they aim to launch their latest campaign with a victory. Facing them are the unpredictable Punjab Kings, who promise to deliver a challenging encounter.
Parthiv Patel, GT's assistant coach, expressed confidence in the team's ability to handle the threat posed by the Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer and coached by Ricky Ponting. "We believe in simplicity, understanding the conditions, and responding to the situation.
That will be our approach," Patel shared in response to a query from NDTV during a media interaction. Recognizing Punjab's strength on paper and their new leadership dynamics, Patel emphasized the importance of executing GT's strategies effectively.
Patel highlighted the meticulous preparation undertaken by the team. "We've conducted extensive preparations, including two five-day training camps in Surat, which offered excellent facilities.
The players have put in the work, particularly focusing on batting practice," he noted. The team then moved to Ahmedabad, where they have been training since March 10 and have played practice matches. "We've maintained a low profile on social media, but we&rsquo;re ready and well-prepared for the IPL," Patel affirmed.
In strategic moves during the mega auction, GT bolstered their squad by signing Jos Buttler, Mohammed Siraj, and Kagiso Rabada. They also retained key players like Shubman Gill, Rashid Khan, Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, and Rahul Tewatia, ensuring a balanced mix of talent and experience.
As the IPL 2025 journey begins, all eyes will be on the Titans to see if they can reclaim their former glory and outmaneuver the ever-unpredictable Punjab Kings.

Delhi Capitals narrowly defeated Lucknow Super Giants, chasing 210 with heroes Ashutosh Sharma and Vipraj Nigam sealing the win. Captains ensure reflective strategies for future IPL matches.

Delhi Capitals Edge Out LSG in Thrilling IPL Finish

Delhi Capitals' thrilling victory over Lucknow Super Giants saw them chase 210, thanks to key performances by Ashutosh Sharma and Vipraj Nigam. LSG’s captain Rishabh Pant noted missed execution opportunities, underscoring the IPL’s unpredictability.

Delhi Capitals chased down 210, winning by one wicket against Lucknow Super Giants. Ashutosh Sharma shone with 66*, aided by Vipraj Nigam's impactful 39. LSG captain Pant noted missed opportunities, while DC's Axar Patel praised his team's tenacity.

Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant felt his bowlers could have done the basics better at the back end as the target of 210 was defendable against a marauding Delhi Capitals who won by one wicket with three balls to spare in their IPL match on Monday.
Ashutosh Sharma's 66 not out of 31 balls and Vipraj Nigam's 39 off 15 deliveries fashioned what looked like an improbable win after DC were dead and buried at 113 for 6.
"I think our top-order batters played really well and I think it was a pretty good score on this wicket. We got early wickets, but we knew it was a good wicket to bat on. We had to keep doing the basics right more often. I think they had a couple of good partnerships," Pant said at post-match presentation ceremony.
He lauded DC player Tristan Stubbs, who set the dice rolling before it was carried on by Ashutosh and Vipraj.
"One with Stubbs, with Ashutosh and one with one other guy (Vipraj Nigam.) I think he (Nigam) did a pretty good job and took the game away from us.
There was enough for the bowlers, but I think we could have done the basics right.
"We felt the pressure, we are still settling in, but a lots of positives to take from this match." An ecstatic DC skipper Axar Patel said that in his tenure as skipper, one should be prepared to take a roller-coaster ride.
"Be prepared for it now. It's going to be like this only under my captaincy. Things will be up and down a little. Now that we have won, people won't complain about why I gave that over to Stubbs (28 runs)." The way batters are slaying bowlers, Axar said that it started from last year.
"Don't remember the last time I saw something like this. The way they played in the first six overs, we felt we gave a few too many early on. We dropped some catches as well. It looked like they could score 240, but we pulled things back."
Player of the match Ashutosh dedicated his award to his mentor Shikhar Dhawan and said that it was a good thing that Vipraj initially attacked when he was not actually getting wood to leather.
"Well played to Vipraj. I asked him to keep hitting. He was very calm under pressure. Want to dedicate this award to my mentor Shikhar paaji."
Ashutosh said that he had learnt his lessons from previous season when he couldn't finish a few close games. "Took the lessons from last year. Missed out on finishing the game on a couple of occasions in the previous season. The whole year I focussed and visualised about it. Had the belief that if I play till the last over, anything can happen," he said.

England secured a 3-0 victory over Latvia in a World Cup qualifier at Wembley. Jude Bellingham faced scrutiny for aggressive play, prompting his substitution by Phil Foden. Goals came from Reece James, Harry Kane, and Eberechi Eze, showcasing the team's strengths.

England Downs Latvia 3-0 in World Cup Qualifier

In a World Cup qualifier, England triumphed 3-0 against Latvia. Despite struggles, goals from Reece James, Harry Kane, and Eberechi Eze secured the win. Tuchel emphasizes team improvements as they prepare for the next match.

England defeats Latvia 3-0 in a tense World Cup qualifier. Bellingham's performance drew scrutiny, but goals from James, Kane, and Eze secured victory.

Thomas Tuchel admitted Jude Bellingham was "lucky" to escape a red card as England "struggled" to secure a 3-0 win against minnows Latvia on Monday. Just two days after claiming Bellingham can be "very emotional" and needed to control his mood on the pitch, the Real Madrid star was fortunate not to be sent off in the World Cup qualifier at Wembley.
After being booked in the first half, Bellingham avoided a second yellow yard despite crunching into a crude challenge on Raivis Jurkovskis soon after the interval. England boss Tuchel responded by sending on Phil Foden to replace the midfielder moments later to ensure he was not given his marching orders.
"A bit lucky. We took straight away the decision to not take the risk and take him off," Tuchel said.
Leading through Reece James's superb first half free-kick, England were struggling to kill off stubborn Latvia when Bellingham was substituted.
His lack of discipline could have hampered Tuchel's bid for a second successive win to start his reign.
Harry Kane netted moments after Bellingham's departure before Eberechi Eze wrapped up the points on the road to next year's World Cup.
Facing an unheralded Latvia team 136 places below them in FIFA's world rankings, Tuchel acknowledged England were far from convincing again after a lacklustre 2-0 win against Albania in his debut on Friday.
"It was not an easy match. We saw a lot of good things, created good chances. We needed a free-kick to unlock it. I'm happy with the attitude, energy and desire. We will get there," the German said.
"The second half we started to slow the game down and made little movement, which makes no sense. But the second goal was better as we showed acceleration from one of our sixes.
"We encourage everyone to have these late accelerations but we struggled a bit until the goal. I learn about the players and the game, so it is interesting."
'His quality is the highest level'
James's eye-catching first England start since September 2022 was the highlight of the evening for Tuchel.
The Chelsea right-back -- hampered by hamstring injuries for the last two seasons -- starred under Tuchel during the Blues' Champions League-winning campaign in 2021.
"I know Reece and the quality the boy has is amazing. He has every right to be proud and happy with his performance," Tuchel said.
"He is in excellent shape. He looks sharp and the quality there can be no doubt.
"If you play a dominant match like today, he can be a hybrid midfielder to help create an overload. His quality is at the highest level.&nbsp;
"We were in close contact in the last weeks. We knew he was in a good space mentally. That's what he proved. He was very positive throughout the camp."
Tuchel was also impressed by Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers in his first England start.
Rogers has become a key figure for Villa during their run to the Champions League quarter-finals this season and Tuchel saw signs that he can replicate that form on the international stage.
"I'm happy with him. He deserved to start. A match where we are so dominant could suit him more to play from the wings," said Tuchel, whose team return to action against Andorra in June.
"He felt more freedom when we played him there. There was more space. He did good."

Anticipation builds around BCCI men's contracts as retirements impact the A  category. Possible shifts include Axar Patel's rise.

BCCI Men's Central Contracts Updates

The upcoming BCCI central contracts list for men could see major shifts, influenced by retirements and rising talents. Speculation centers on the A  category's future composition.

BCCI central contracts for men are pending release, with anticipated changes due to senior players' T20 retirements.

As anticipation builds around the release of the BCCI central contracts for men, speculation is rife about potential changes in the esteemed A+ category.
This follows the recent retirements of cricket stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from the T20 format.
While the women's central contract list, featuring 16 players across three categories, was unveiled on Monday, the men's list&mdash;which previously included 30 cricketers&mdash;is expected shortly.
In the central contracts hierarchy, those in the A+ category are awarded a retainership fee of INR 7 crore.
The A category follows with INR 5 crore, while Grade B and C players receive INR 3 crore and INR 1 crore, respectively.
The national selection committee, in collaboration with the head coach and secretary Devajit Saikia, crafts these contracts before presenting them to the Apex Council for approval.
Tensions reportedly simmer within the BCCI regarding the retention of senior players in the A+ bracket.
Last year, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja were among those awarded the highest-paying contracts. However, the retirements from T20 Internationals shift Sharma, Kohli, and Jadeja to two-format players, leaving Bumrah as the sole all-format certainty and potential future Test captain.
Nonetheless, a significant faction within the BCCI is advocating for continuity in the A+ category's composition.
In the A category, the departure of Ravichandran Ashwin from international cricket opens a spot. Axar Patel, recently named vice-captain for the T20I series against England, is a strong candidate for elevation from Group B to A. Axar's consistent performances in both ODIs and T20Is, alongside his 14 Test appearances for India, bolster his case.
Shreyas Iyer, omitted from last season's contracts, is poised for a return, given his involvement in 11 ODIs this season. For inclusion in the central contract list, players must feature in either three Tests, eight ODIs, or 10 T20Is within a calendar year.
Rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal's promising performances across formats could see him advance from his Grade B contract. Meanwhile, Bengal pacer Akash Deep, with seven Tests under his belt, and Sarfaraz Khan, who has played in three, are expected to join Group C. Similarly, Nitish Kumar Reddy, who participated in the full Border-Gavaskar series (five Tests and four T20Is), meets the criteria for automatic inclusion.
Last year&rsquo;s listees, Shardul Thakur and Ruturaj Gaikwad, currently fall short of the requirements to stay on the list. However, exceptions can be made by the selection committee in conjunction with the head coach and secretary.
As the cricketing world awaits the men's central contracts list, all eyes remain on the decisions that could reshape India's cricketing landscape.

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Finland on Monday suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of an overpowering Belgium, who for the first time won all three group games in the European Championship.&nbsp;Finnish player Lukas Hradecky&nbsp;opened the account for the World's best side with an own goal in the 74th minute in St Petersburg. 7 minutes later, Romelu&nbsp;Lukaku secured the game for Roberto Martinez's men as he netted his 3rd goal of the tournament.&nbsp;While Finland finished 3rd in the group, their chances of clearing for the knockout stages are dim.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Romelu Lukaku scores as Belgium defeat Finland 2-0

Romelu&nbsp;Lukaku secured the game for Roberto Martinez's men as he netted his 3rd goal of the tournament.&nbsp;

Romelu&nbsp;Lukaku scores as Belgium defeat Finland 2-0 Belgium emerge as Group winners, win all 3 group games for first time Finland's chances of clearing for knockout stages dim

Finland on Monday suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Belgium, who for the first time won all three group games in the European Championship.&nbsp; Finnish player Lukas Hradecky&nbsp;opened the account for the World's best side with an own goal in the 74th minute in St Petersburg. 7 minutes later, Romelu&nbsp;Lukaku secured the game for Roberto Martinez's men as he netted his 3rd goal of the tournament.&nbsp;

Sunrisers Hyderabad aims for redemption against Delhi Capitals post-defeat to LSG. Coach Vettori focuses on strategic improvements and player performances, with hopes of a strong response in upcoming matches.

Sunrisers Seek Redemption vs Delhi

Following a five-wicket loss to LSG, Sunrisers Hyderabad, led by coach Daniel Vettori, seeks redemption against Delhi Capitals. Focusing on positives and the adaptability of strategies, SRH is poised to bounce back, emphasizing resilience and key player contributions.

SRH targets redemption against Delhi following a loss to LSG. Vettori and Cummins focus on positive takeaways and adaptability to improve strategies, especially in adapting to new game conditions in Visakhapatnam.

In the aftermath of Sunrisers Hyderabad's (SRH) five-wicket loss to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2025, head coach Daniel Vettori emphasized the importance of deriving positives from the encounter.
Despite the setback at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, where LSG comfortably chased down SRH's total of 190/9 with 23 balls remaining, Vettori remains optimistic about the team's future fixtures, particularly their upcoming clash against Delhi Capitals in Visakhapatnam.
Reflecting on the defeat, Vettori acknowledged the competitive nature of the 190-run total while recognizing the need for strategic adjustments. "As we head to Vizag, the conditions and ground dimensions will differ significantly, necessitating a revised game plan," Vettori stated in a video posted on the franchise's X account.
Although the core style of play will remain unchanged, he highlighted the importance of adaptability in addressing in-game challenges, particularly when facing in-form batsmen.
Vettori commended the performances of some players, notably uncapped batter Aniket Verma, who impressed with his brisk 36 off 13 balls, and captain Pat Cummins, who added valuable runs late in the innings with three sixes.
"In a long tournament like the IPL, every team is likely to lose several matches. We've got one of those out of the way early. Despite the loss, there are several positives, and plenty of elements we executed well," he added.
The former New Zealand international further praised the team's assessment of the pitch conditions. Transitioning from a 280-run surface to one where early feedback suggested a range of 200-220, SRH navigated challenging circumstances with key contributions from players like Nitish and Cummins, who anchored the middle order.
Cummins, echoing Vettori's sentiments, noted, "Despite things not entirely aligning in our favor, reaching 190 was an achievement in itself. Excluding Nicholas Pooran's performance, we were competitive throughout the game."
Acknowledging the ebb and flow characteristic of IPL matches, Cummins expressed confidence in SRH's competitiveness moving forward. Both Vettori and Cummins seem optimistic that with learnings from this loss, SRH can rally and refine their performance as they aim for a strong tournament showing.

KL Rahul returns to Delhi Capitals for the match against SRH, bringing fresh energy after celebrating his daughter's arrival. Post acquiring him for Rs 14 crore, DC aims for IPL success with Rahul's remarkable cricketing talent.

KL Rahul's Anticipated Return for DC vs SRH

KL Rahul is set to return to the Delhi Capitals lineup against SunRisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024. After celebrating personal milestones, Rahul's presence boosts team morale. Fans anticipate his strategic brilliance on the field.

KL Rahul returns to Delhi Capitals after personal commitments, as they face SRH next. Celebrating fatherhood, Rahul aims to enhance DC's IPL campaign. He joins the team, uplifting spirits with humor and camaraderie.

After Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals' (DC) opening match without KL Rahul, fans can expect his return for the second game against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 30.
Rahul was absent from the game against his former team, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), due to personal commitments as he and his wife, Athiya Shetty, recently welcomed their newborn daughter. In Rahul's absence, Delhi Capitals managed a narrow victory over LSG, with Ashutosh Sharma stepping up to guide the team.
Following the match, Rahul joined his teammates and appeared in high spirits during a team-bonding session.
The event was filled with light-hearted activities, where Rahul entertained players by mimicking the batting stance and accent of DC mentor Kevin Pietersen. He humorously asked, "Mate, any guesses?" drawing laughter from Pietersen himself.
Delhi Capitals celebrated Rahul and Athiya's new milestone with a touching video tribute. A video posted on DC's social media, captioned "Our family extends, our family celebrates," showcased teammates congratulating Rahul with a 'Mother's Lap Baby Swing' gesture.
The backdrop was filled with the tune of 'Meri duniya tu hi re' from the film Heyy Babyy, with skipper Axar Patel seen singing along. In response, Rahul commented, "Lads, this means so much to us, thanks a million."
Rahul's journey to Delhi Capitals came after the team acquired him for a substantial Rs 14 crore at the mega auction. This move followed a fallout with LSG's franchise owner Sanjeev Goenka at the conclusion of the 2024 season, leading to Rahul not being retained by his former team.
Now, donning the DC jersey, Rahul aims to make a mark in the T20 format, having already reclaimed his place in India's ODI and Test teams.
Rahul's prowess was on full display during India's victorious 2025 Champions Trophy campaign, where he played a pivotal role both as a wicketkeeper and a finisher.
Displaying remarkable consistency, he remained unbeaten in three out of four innings. His contributions, particularly in the knockout stage, were crucial, with scores of 42* and 34* helping India secure wins over Australia and New Zealand in the semi-finals and finals, respectively. Rahul's performances reiterate his value in any setup, as he prepares to bring that form to DC's IPL campaign.

Nicholas Pooran's explosive performance in the 2025 IPL season positions him as a leading T20 player, achieving new records and drawing global admiration.

Nicholas Pooran: T20 Sensation in IPL 2025

In the 2025 IPL, Nicholas Pooran's explosive batting has solidified his place as a top T20 player. His remarkable performances for Lucknow Super Giants are setting new standards in cricket, as highlighted by experts including Harbhajan Singh.

Nicholas Pooran is redefining T20 cricket standards in the 2025 IPL with blazing performances for Lucknow, marking himself as one of the best T20 players.

In a stunning display of power hitting, West Indies' Nicholas Pooran has firmly established himself as the standout player in the T20 format, according to former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh.
The 29-year-old has been pivotal in turning the tide for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). His recent heroics include a blistering 70 off just 26 balls, leading LSG to a remarkable 5-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during a challenging 191-run chase.
Harbhajan, clearly impressed by Pooran's consistent and explosive performances in this season's IPL, expressed his admiration on the social platform X, declaring, "Currently Nicholas Pooran is the best player of T20 format. Period!"
Pooran's campaign started with an electrifying 75 from 30 balls against Delhi Capitals, a performance that nearly secured a win for his team.
Unfortunately, despite his valiant efforts, LSG fell short as Delhi clinched a narrow one-wicket victory in Vizag.
These performances have catapulted Pooran to the top of the Orange Cap standings in this 18th edition of the tournament. With 145 runs across two matches, he boasts a staggering average of 72.50 and an astonishing strike rate of 258.92.
Pooran has also become a significant figure in LSG's history books, crossing the 1000-run milestone for the franchise. He achieved this in just 31 matches, maintaining an impressive average of 45.54 with a strike rate of 184.53. Only KL Rahul has amassed more runs for the franchise, with 1410 runs in 38 matches.
Renowned for his effortless power-hitting, Pooran has crossed the fifty-run mark in fewer than 20 deliveries on four occasions, the most by any player in the IPL.
Australian power hitters Travis Head and Jake Fraser-McGurk have managed this feat three times each. Pooran&rsquo;s impressive 18-ball fifty is the second-fastest for LSG, following his own 15-ball spectacle against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2023.
Pooran&rsquo;s remarkable performances are not only etching his name into the records of the IPL but are also redefining the standards for T20 cricket globally.

Ashwin raises concerns over the lack of recognition for bowlers in IPL 2025, emphasizing Vyshak Vijaykumar's impactful performance and urging for fair appreciation in the league.

Ashwin Criticizes IPL's Bowler Recognition

R. Ashwin voices the need for better bowler recognition in IPL 2025, spotlighting Vyshak Vijaykumar's performance. IPL's award system largely favors batting, overshadowing outstanding bowling achievements.

Ashwin criticizes the lack of awards for bowlers in IPL 2025, emphasizing Vyshak Vijaykumar's impactful yet unrecognized performance. He calls for balanced recognition in the league's awarding of players' contributions.

The IPL 2025 season has begun with fireworks, with several teams like SunRisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Gujarat Titans crossing the 230-run mark within the first two weeks.
While the exhilarating batting displays have thrilled fans, the growing imbalance in the contest between bat and ball has become apparent, especially during award ceremonies.&nbsp;
Chennai Super Kings' veteran bowler Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced his concerns about this imbalance on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin highlighted how the IPL presentation ceremonies predominantly celebrate batting feats, with numerous awards like the "Super Striker," "Super Fours," and "Super Sixes," yet there's little recognition for exceptional bowling performances. "In the IPL presentation show, there are at least 10 awards given out, and a significant portion of both teams receives an award," Ashwin noted. "But if someone bowls well, they don't even get a single award."
He humorously added, "It's not so far that a bowler will flee the ground with the ball. If I don't deliver the ball, how will you hit it?"
Ashwin recently spoke up for Punjab Kings bowler Vyshak Vijaykumar, who made a notable impact as a substitute. In a high-scoring encounter against Gujarat Titans, Vyshak came into play in the 15th over with GT at a strong 169/2, chasing a daunting target of 244.
His first two overs under pressure saw him conceding just five runs each, containing the GT's run flow to 187/2 by the end of the 17th over. Although his third over went for 18 runs, GT ultimately fell short, needing 27 off the last six balls. Despite his crucial role, Shreyas Iyer was named 'Player of the Match' for his unbeaten 97.
Ashwin remarked, "Shreyas Iyer's contribution was undoubtedly vital, but Vyshak's performance was a game-changer. Called in unexpectedly in the 14th over, Vyshak bowled outstandingly during the death overs, exhibiting clear planning and precise execution."
He continued, "His death bowling, engulfed with wides, yorkers, and an occasional full toss, was pivotal. The full toss, often underrated, comes off the pitch in a way that surprises batters. For me, Vyshak was the MVP. Vijaykumar Vyshak deserved the 'Player of the Match' accolade for his efforts."
Ashwin's observations are a call to reassess how bowling achievements are recognized in the IPL, ensuring that the art of bowling receives its due acknowledgement amidst an era dominated by batsmen.

Shubman Gill's captaincy for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025 is under scrutiny after a narrow loss. Key decisions are questioned, but Gill finds positives.

Shubman Gill's IPL 2025 Captaincy Scrutinized

Shubman Gill's first match as Gujarat Titans' captain in IPL 2025 ended in a narrow loss. Criticized decisions included bowling strategy. Gill remains optimistic about future matches, focusing on separating his leadership and batting efforts.

Shubman Gill's captaincy debut for Gujarat Titans saw an 11-run loss to Punjab Kings, with experts like Sehwag critiquing strategic decisions, notably in bowling. Gill remains hopeful for future matches as he balances leadership and performance.

Shubman Gill's tenure as captain of the Gujarat Titans (GT) got off to a rocky start in IPL 2025, as the former IPL champions fell to the Punjab Kings (PBKS) by a mere 11 runs in their season opener. The match, held in Ahmedabad, saw GT chasing a formidable target of 244, ultimately falling short, much to the dismay of GT fans and cricket pundits alike.
Indian cricket legend Virender Sehwag has been vocal about his concerns regarding Gill's captaincy. Speaking on Cricbuzz, Sehwag criticized Gill for his lack of proactivity and questionable bowling changes. A particular point of contention was Gill's decision to pull Mohammed Siraj from the attack after Siraj had delivered a tight couple of opening overs, conceding just 14 runs.
Instead, Arshad Khan was brought in and was promptly targeted, conceding 21 runs in a single over during the powerplay&mdash;a move Sehwag suggests shifted the game's momentum in PBKS's favor.
Sehwag observed, "I thought Shubman Gill's captaincy wasn't up to the mark. When Siraj is bowling well with the new ball, there's no logic in saving him for the death overs, especially when he ended up getting hit later."
Reflecting on the game, Gill acknowledged his team's shortcomings. "We had chances both while bowling and batting. But conceding too many runs towards the end and not capitalizing on those crucial middle overs hurt us.
In those three overs, we managed only 18 runs, and our first three overs in the chase were slow&mdash;that, in particular, cost us the match," Gill remarked.
Despite the defeat, Gill found silver linings in his team's performance, noting the difficult conditions for delivering perfect yorkers by players coming off the bench.
"There are many positives to take forward. It's always a good wicket to bat on here," he added, likely eyeing improvements in the matches ahead.
Looking back on his captaincy journey, which began after taking over from Hardik Pandya last season, Gill emphasized the importance of separating his batting from leadership duties.
In a pre-season media conference, Gill shared, "The more you keep captaincy and batting separate, the better it is. Concentrating fully on batting when I'm at the crease allows me to make the best decisions for myself and my team."
Gill's reflections come after a mixed experience as captain last season, when GT concluded the tournament in eighth place following successive finals appearances in 2022 and 2023. Gill, who amassed an impressive 890 runs in the 2023 season, remains optimistic.
However, it is clear that navigating the choppy waters of IPL captaincy is a learning curve he is committed to mastering.
As the Gujarat Titans attempt to shake off this early setback, all eyes will be on Shubman Gill as they strive to reclaim their form and compete for top honors in IPL 2025.

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