Digest of the Hottest News of the Last Week 24.02.2025-02.03.2025

India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in the 2025 Champions Trophy group clash in Dubai, virtually securing a semifinal spot. Virat Kohli starred with an unbeaten 101*, reaching his 51st ODI century with the winning boundary as India chased down 241. Rohit Sharma, despite a brief hamstring concern, praised Kohli’s passion. Pakistan, now on the verge of elimination, blamed poor shot selection and fielding lapses for their second consecutive defeat. Mohammed Shami, Hardik Pandya, and Harshit Rana also impressed with the ball.

The Hundred 2025 men’s squads are set, with top international stars joining the tournament. Steve Smith (Welsh Fire), Kane Williamson (London Spirit), Marcus Stoinis (Trent Rockets), David Miller (Northern Superchargers), and Heinrich Klaasen (Manchester Originals) headline the direct signings. Rashid Khan joins Oval Invincibles, while Trent Boult strengthens Birmingham Phoenix. The draft will finalize the remaining spots on March 12.

Pakistan’s explosive opener, Fakhar Zaman, is reportedly considering retirement from ODI cricket after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The 34-year-old, who has played 86 ODIs and scored 3,651 runs at an average of 46.21, is struggling with hyperthyroidism and injuries. Dissatisfaction over selection matters and NOC policies may also influence his decision.

With India already securing a semifinal spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, key changes are expected in their playing XI for the final Group A match against New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai. Captain Rohit Sharma is likely to miss the game due to a hamstring injury, while Shubman Gill is unwell. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant has recovered from a viral fever and is expected to return, with KL Rahul moving up the order. Mohammed Shami dismissed injury concerns, bowling at full pace in practice. India aims to fine-tune their squad ahead of the knockouts.

Pakistan’s return as ICC tournament hosts after nearly three decades ended in disaster. The team suffered back-to-back defeats against New Zealand and India, leading to an early exit without a single win. Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi now face uncertain futures as PCB plans a major overhaul. Internal conflicts, poor selections, and a lack of coordination further worsened Pakistan’s campaign, leaving them at the bottom of the table with just one point and a -1.087 Net Run Rate.