Not much happened on August 17 (Saturday) apart from the grand opening of another domestic T20 state league in the form of Delhi Premier League (DPLT20). While it was a dazzling opening ceremony, the action on the field included Rishabh Pant! Unfortunately, he didn’t look in great shape but the tournament-opener was a great one. Apart from this, we saw developments on IPL front as well, that included the man, the myth, the legend MS Dhoni! Catch all the headline-worthy stories below:
CSK on MS Dhoni IPL retention
There’s speculation about the uncapped player rule for the IPL 2025 auction, which could benefit Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by allowing them to retain MS Dhoni at just Rs 4 crore. While reports suggest this rule might be reinstated, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan clarified they haven’t requested it. The BCCI hasn’t confirmed anything yet, leaving the possibility open. This rule, previously in place from 2008 to 2021, categorizes players retired from international cricket for five years as uncapped. However, CSK CEO has openly denied any conversations regarding it.
IPL, IPL all over?
The ECB is selling 49% stakes in its Hundred cricket teams, aiming to raise £400 million. All 10 IPL franchises are interested. Interestingly, the IPL owners might get to rename teams despite minority stakes, a move seen as crucial to attract big investments. The London Spirit, valued at around £100 million, is the most sought-after team, with Mumbai Indians keen on a stake. This could lead to the Spirit becoming the fourth team under the Mumbai Indians umbrella.
Sluggish Rishabh Pant in DPLT20
After IPL 2024, T20 World Cup 2024 and IND vs SL, Rishabh Pant’s struggles continued in the DPL. Leading Purani Dilli 6, he managed a mere 35 off 32 against South Delhi Superstarz. His strike rate of 109 paled in comparison to young opener Arpit Rana’s blistering 59. Pant looked uncomfortable, edging several balls and surviving an LBW appeal.
Welcome home, Vinesh ‘champion’ Phogat
Vinesh Phogat received a huge welcome upon her return from the Paris Olympics 2024. A massive crowd cheering her after the wrestler was disqualified from the finals for being just 100 grams overweight. Heartbroken by the disqualification and subsequent rejection of her appeal for a joint silver medal, Phogat announced her retirement. The overwhelming support in New Delhi, however, brought her to tears.
Cricket in Youth Olympics!
Cricket could be included in the 2030 Youth Olympics. The ICC is open to working with the IOC on this, especially as India bids to host the event in Mumbai. India also aims for the 2036 Olympics. The ICC’s General Manager of Development expressed interest in the idea, seeing it as a positive step. This follows a suggestion from Vivek Gopalan, who highlighted the potential of cricket in the Youth Olympics, especially with India’s bid and Prime Minister Modi’s support for both events.
Neeraj Chopra coming to screens near you, soon!
Neeraj Chopra, fresh off his silver at the Paris Olympics, is gearing up for the Lausanne Diamond League on August 22nd. Currently training in Switzerland, he confirmed his participation despite an injury. With his speedy recovery, Neeraj aims to finish the season strong before returning to India for medical consultations and rest. The Diamond League finale will be followed by a well-deserved break to address his injury.
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