The highly anticipated player retention announcements for the 2025 IPL season have finally been made, causing a stir among fans and analysts alike. Some of the biggest names in cricket, including MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, are set to be retained by their respective teams, while others may be released. Stay tuned for all the latest updates and expert analysis on team strategies and potential changes.
IND A vs AUS A: Match Preview and History
India A and Australia A are set to clash in a four-match unofficial Test series, commencing on August 22, 2023. The matches will be played at the following venues:
Background:
The India A vs Australia A series has a long history, dating back to the late 1980s. The teams have played 34 unofficial Tests against each other, with Australia A winning 15, India A winning 11, and eight matches ending in a draw.
Top Performers:
Over the years, several top players have represented India A and Australia A in this series. Some notable names include:
FAQs:
1. What is the importance of the India A vs Australia A series?
The series serves as a platform for young players to showcase their talent and gain experience against a strong opposition. It also provides an opportunity for established players to regain form and prepare for international assignments.
2. Who are the key players to watch in this series?
For India A, emerging stars like Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, and Umran Malik will be keen to impress. Australia A will look towards the likes of Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, and Jhye Richardson to lead their charge.
3. What are the expectations for the series?
Both teams are expected to field strong squads and the matches are likely to be competitive. India A will be keen to defend their home turf, while Australia A will aim to prove their dominance in overseas conditions.
4. Has IND A ever defeated AUS A in an unofficial Test series?
Yes, IND A defeated AUS A 2-1 in an unofficial Test series in 2018-19.
5. Who has the most runs and wickets in IND A vs AUS A unofficial Tests?
VVS Laxman (India A) holds the record for most runs with 1,023, while Shane Warne (Australia A) has taken the most wickets with 46.
Defending champions Mumbai Indians have announced the list of five players they have retained for the upcoming 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Veteran pacer Jasprit Bumrah became the highest-paid player in the franchise's history with a whopping fee of Rs. 18 crore, followed by Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, who were retained for Rs. 16.35 crore each. The franchise also announced the reappointment of Sri Lankan legend Mahela Jayawardene as their head coach and confirmed that Pandya will continue to lead next season. With just one right-to-match option for an uncapped player, the team will enter the mega auction with a budget of Rs. 45 crore.
On Wednesday, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced the updated central contract list for England men's cricket, with notable omissions of players such as Ben Foakes and Ollie Robinson. However, captain Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler both signed extensions on their contracts. This news comes ahead of England's white-ball series against West Indies, which can be watched live on Sky Sports from October 31-November 17.
In a preview to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India A faced off against Australia A in their first four-day Test. What ensued was a disastrous collapse for India A with doggett's spell of 6/15 dismantling the batters. Despite a promising start from Devdutt Padikkal, India A crumbled and were bowled out for 107 runs. However, the bowlers showed some fight as Australia A also struggled with the bat, ending the day at 99/4.
As the full list of retentions and releases ahead of the mega-auction is finally complete, here is a teamwise analysis and updates that you don't want to miss. While Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai Indians retained their core players, Delhi Capitals officially let go of their long-time player Rishabh Pant. The ownership structure and management changes may have played a role in Pant's departure from the team.
Kolkata Knight Riders have retained Rinku Singh, the top retention for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, for an astounding price of Rs. 13 crore. This left-handed batter was originally signed by KKR for a fraction of his current worth - only Rs. 55 lakh - at the last mega auction. With his earnings multiplying by almost 24 times, this move has put Singh in the spotlight as one of the highest-earning players in the IPL.
After much anticipation, all 10 franchises have announced their retained players for the upcoming IPL 2024. While the lists include many expected names, there are also some surprising releases and retentions. From experienced players like Mohammed Siraj and KL Rahul being released to uncapped players being retained over established names, the teams have shocked fans and analysts alike. Let's take a closer look at the top five surprises from the retention lists.
Mumbai Indians has secured Rohit Sharma's services for Rs 16.30 crore for the 2024 IPL season. The former India captain expressed his happiness with the retention, stating that the fourth spot was ideal for him since he has retired from the format. Sharma believes that players in the national team should get preference, and he is happy with the team's decision.
After being knocked out of the Carabao Cup, Chelsea immediately turn their attention to a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United. The Blues suffered a surprise defeat to Newcastle United in the cup, without key player Cole Palmer. They now face a rejuvenated United side, with interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy at the helm following the departure of Erik ten Hag. However, rather than the on-field action, the focus is on Man United's new manager appointment, with the club reportedly set to bring in Sporting CP's Ruben Amorim. Despite this potential threat, Chelsea have the advantage of a fully fit squad heading into the high-profile match.
Graeme Souness has voiced his criticism of Manchester United's INEOS hierarchy, blaming them for the club's struggling transfer market strategy. With new manager Ruben Amorim already facing a tough task, Souness warns that the club's summer signings may not be enough to improve their current standings in the Premier League and Europa League tables. As the Portuguese is set to take over from recently sacked Erik ten Hag, Souness cautions that the club's poor decisions in the transfer market may continue to haunt them.