Cricket Blog | BBL | India Cricket News

In a bold and unexpected move, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have appointed 31-year-old middle-order batter Rajat Patidar as their new captain for the upcoming 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The announcement was made at a grand event at the KSCA on Thursday (February 13), marking a fresh chapter for the franchise. Who is Rajat Patidar? Rajat Patidar is an Indian cricketer who plays as a right-handed middle-order batsman. He has been a key player for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has also represented Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket . Known for his ability to play spin and pace well, Patidar made headlines with a stunning century in the IPL 2022 playoffs. His consistent performances earned him a retained spot in RCB's squad, and in a surprising move, he has now been appointed as the captain for IPL 2025, replacing Faf du Plessis. A New Leader for a New Era With the release of former skipper Faf du Plessis, RCB found themselv...

Indian cricket fans were left in shock and speculation as the Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal known for his on-field antics and social media charm, shared a mysterious post amid swirling rumours about his marriage to choreographer and YouTuber Dhanashree Verma. The couple, who got married in December 2020, now find themselves under the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Yuzi and Dhanashree: Trouble in Paradise? Fans first sensed trouble when both Chahal and Dhanashree unfollowed each other on Instagram—a move that has often spelled doom for celebrity relationships. In a more dramatic twist, Chahal went a step further and deleted all his photos with Dhanashree from his profile. While Dhanashree still has a few pictures with the cricketer on her account, her decision to unfollow him added fuel to the fire. Reports suggest that the couple has been living separately for the past three months, with whispers of irreconcilable differences growing louder. Though neither Chahal nor Dhanashree...

The ICC Champions Trophy, affectionately known as the “Mini World Cup,” is set to make its long-awaited return, rekindling a spark that once captivated cricket fans across the globe. Once a marquee event, the tournament fell out of favour over a decade ago, with many questioning its relevance. By 2021, those calls to axe the competition were finally heeded, and it was erased from the cricketing calendar. Now, as the cricketing world prepares for its rebirth, the Champions Trophy will return with a bang next spring. From February 19th to March 9th, the cricketing elite will descend upon Pakistan, where eight powerhouse nations will vie for glory. But which teams boast the most illustrious history in the competition? Let’s dive into the archives. India: The Pursuit of a Third Crown India’s relationship with the Champions Trophy is one of perseverance, dominance, and a knack for high drama. With two titles (2002 and 2013) and a runners-up finish in 2000, the Men in Blue have etched their ...

Tim Southee, New Zealand’s prolific paceman and all-time leading wicket-taker across formats, has announced the third Test against England could be his final appearance in red-ball cricket.  If New Zealand qualifies for the World Test Championship (WTC) final next year, he may make himself available for one last hurrah. Southee, 35, will have a fitting end to his career at Seddon Park, Hamilton, his home ground. Reflecting on his 18-year journey, he expressed gratitude, saying, “To play such a big series against the team I began my Test career against and at grounds so special to me is the perfect way to bow out.” The veteran has struggled recently, managing only three wickets on the spin-friendly pitches in India. He relinquished the Test captaincy to Tom Latham on that tour, underscoring his commitment to a gradual transition. Coach Gary Stead praised Southee’s endurance and competitive spirit, calling him “an incredibly tough competitor.” New Zealand have named a 14-man squad fo...

Ricky Ponting is reportedly close to signing a deal with Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2025, as per Cricbuzz. Having recently parted ways with Delhi Capitals, where he served as head coach for seven seasons, Ponting is expected to bring a wealth of experience and tactical expertise to Punjab. During his tenure with Delhi, Ponting guided the franchise to three consecutive playoff appearances from 2019 to 2021, including their first-ever IPL final in 2020.  However, recent struggles led to his departure earlier this year. Punjab Kings, eager to revamp their team after several lacklustre seasons, are eyeing Ponting as the potential game-changer they need. Punjab Kings, who are yet to claim an IPL title since their debut in 2008, last came close in 2014 as runners-up. With Ponting’s proven track record, fans are hopeful that his leadership could finally steer the franchise towards their maiden trophy.  Though official announcements are awaited, Ponting’s arrival could be pivotal for P...

Rahul Dravid prepares to take on the head coach role for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2025 season.  The 52-year-old, who recently coached India to their T20 World Cup triumph in 2024, is set to return to the Royals, a team he captained in 2012 and 2013 and mentored until 2015. Dravid's connection with the Royals runs deep. His leadership during his playing days and subsequent mentorship laid a strong foundation for the franchise. His return as head coach brings a wealth of experience, especially after his successful stint as India's head coach, where he was instrumental in guiding a new generation of cricketers. The move is strategic for the Royals, who are looking to build on their past successes with a strong focus on player development and retention ahead of the upcoming IPL auction. Dravid will reunite with Sanju Samson, whom he mentored during his earlier stint, and who will continue as the team's captain. Kumar Sangakkara will maintain his role as Director of Cricket b...

Steve Smith has committed to Sydney Sixers for the next three years, a move that could see him play in the Big Bash League (BBL) beyond his Test cricket career.  Smith, now 35, could potentially feature in a full BBL season if he retires from Test cricket during this period. His decision comes as fellow Test stars Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey also re-signed with their respective BBL teams, Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers. Smith's availability for up to four games in the upcoming season marks a significant boost for the Sixers. The Australian legend, who turns 36 next June, has already proven his value with a memorable two-century cameo in the 2022/23 BBL season. Sydney Sixers’ general manager, Rachael Haynes, hailed Smith’s commitment as “fantastic news” for the club. As the BBL's 14th edition approaches, the participation of these Test stars between their commitments against India and the upcoming Sri Lanka tour adds further excitement to the competition.  Fans will ...

Venkatesh Iyer is all set to make his County Cricket debut with Lancashire, adding another chapter to the storied tradition of Indian players gracing English county sides.  The 29-year-old allrounder, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League, will showcase his talents in the One-Day Cup and a couple of County Championship games. With an impressive List A record, averaging over 44 with a strike rate exceeding 100, Iyer's inclusion is a significant boost for Lancashire.  His statement reflects his enthusiasm: "Playing county cricket for Lancashire, a historic club with a legacy of Indian players, is incredibly exciting. I'm eager to follow in the footsteps of legends like Farokh Engineer, Sourav Ganguly, and VVS Laxman." This stint in English conditions promises to enhance Iyer's game, and fans can look forward to some thrilling performances as he dons the Red Rose at Emirates Old Trafford. We have completed the signing of India internationa...

With Rohit Sharma announcing his retirement from T20Is after the T20 World Cup 2024, the Indian cricket team will be on the lookout for a new leader to steer them in the shortest format.  Here are five potential players who can step up as India's T20I captain: 1. Hardik Pandya Hardik Pandya is the frontrunner to replace Rohit Sharma as the T20I captain. He has already led the Indian T20I side in various series and has been a standout leader in the IPL, guiding the Gujarat Titans to their maiden title in 2022. Pandya’s aggressive style, combined with his ability to inspire and manage players, makes him an ideal candidate. His all-round capabilities and experience will be invaluable in shaping the future of the Indian T20I team. 2. KL Rahul KL Rahul is another strong contender for the captaincy. Known for his calm and composed demeanor, Rahul has already served as vice-captain and has led the Indian team in Rohit's absence. His leadership of Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL has de...