Hardik Pandya has been handed a one-match suspension for Mumbai Indians’ opening IPL 2025 match against CSK due to disciplinary issues in IPL 2024, where he was penalized for slow over-rates on three occasions. This ban follows two fines of 30 lakh rupees and will see Suryakumar Yadav likely leading in his absence.
India’s official jersey for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has raised eyebrows as it features “Pakistan” due to ICC regulations. The tournament’s official logo, which includes the host nation’s name, is mandatory on all team kits. India begins their campaign on February 20 against Bangladesh, with the blockbuster India vs. Pakistan clash set for February 23.
Rajat Patidar has been named RCB’s captain for IPL 2025, replacing Virat Kohli. Retained for ₹11 crore, he impressed with leadership skills in domestic cricket, leading Madhya Pradesh to the 2024 SMAT final. Scoring 428 runs at a strike rate of 186.08, he played key knocks in the knockout stages. RCB sees him as a fresh leader for a new cycle.
MS Dhoni, the only captain to win all ICC white-ball trophies, emphasized the importance of self-discipline for young cricketers. Speaking at an event on February 19, 2025, he highlighted how prioritizing cricket over distractions shaped his career. Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in August 2020, continues to enjoy the IPL with Chennai Super Kings. Reflecting on his post-retirement life, the 43-year-old expressed his desire to play the sport with the same innocence he had as a child, though he admitted it’s easier said than done.
Australia’s Pat Cummins has confirmed his availability for IPL 2025, providing a major boost to Sunrisers Hyderabad. The SRH skipper, bought for ₹20.5 crore in IPL 2024 and retained for ₹18 crore, missed the Sri Lanka tour and Champions Trophy due to an ankle injury. Cummins has resumed training and aims to return to competitive cricket with the IPL.