While the cricketing action might be on hold, the news and developments continued to pile up on fans. We saw Pakistan preparing for the next year’s ICC Champions Trophy, and also got an update on potential hosts of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. While India pulled their name out, it looks like the tournament can be hosted by Zimbabwe as Bangladesh is currently in an unrest. We also saw the completion of highly anticipated Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) auction.
Preparation for Champions Trophy
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is upgrading two stadiums for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With a INR 586 crore ICC grant, renovations are underway at Karachi’s National Stadium and Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. To cut costs, new floodlights will be rented for these venues, while existing ones will be moved to Rawalpindi and Quetta. The PCB aims to improve lighting standards for international matches and domestic cricket, ensuring smooth play for the mega event next year.
MS Dhoni at Rs 4 crore?
CSK fans can rejoice. BCCI might bring back a rule allowing retired internationals like MS Dhoni to play as ‘uncapped’ players. This could see MS Dhoni play another season for CSK in the 2025 mega auction. Previously, this rule existed but wasn’t used. Now, its return is being discussed. As a capped player, Dhoni cost CSK 12 crore. Uncapped status could bring that down to 4 crore, a big saving for the team.
Rishabh Pant to play DPLT20?
Yes, Rishabh Pant will play the Delhi Premier League (DPLT20) for Purani Dilli 6. The southpaw, alongside Ishant Sharma, Lalit Yadav, and Sumit Chikara, will be the star attraction of the DDCA-run league starting today. However, Pant’s participation is limited to the opening match due to his commitment to the Duleep Trophy. The tournament opener, Purani Dilli 6 vs South Delhi Superstarz, promises to be the start of a spectacle at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
PBKS feud involving Zinta?
The Punjab Kings (PBKS) IPL franchise is facing a crisis. Co-owners Preity Zinta and Mohit Burman are locked in a legal battle over the sale of shares. Zinta has filed a court case to prevent Burman from selling part of his stake without offering it to existing owners first. Burman denied any such plans.
Who will host Women’s T20 World Cup 2024?
Zimbabwe is the frontrunner to host the Women’s T20 World Cup after India pulled out due to monsoon concerns and other reasons. The tournament was initially planned for Bangladesh but political unrest forced a change. Zimbabwe offers favorable weather, lower costs, and enthusiastic crowds compared to the UAE, the other contender. A final decision is expected on August 20. Hosting the event would be a significant boost for Zimbabwean cricket and tourism.
Welcome back, Ishan Kishan
Ishan Kishan has roared back into domestic cricket with an explosive century. After skipping the Ranji Trophy and facing criticism, the southpaw returned, determined to prove his mettle. Leading Jharkhand, he smashed an 86-ball hundred, including nine sixes in a space of 39 balls. Selected for the Duleep Trophy, Kishan aims to cement his place in the Indian team after losing BCCI’s central contract.
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