The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have gotten off to a superb start at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The Shreyas Iyer-Ricky Ponting duo has built a superb team that got better off IPL 2022 champions Gujarat Titans (GT) to kickstart the IPL 2025 on a winning note. Shreyas Iyer, in particular, played a sublime knock before sacrificing his hundred to the team’s cause. Following his superb knock, the PBKS captain has staked his claim for a spot at the T20 World Cup 2026 contention. Elsewhere, there has been a massive boost coming in for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Meanwhile, what is the big disadvantage for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)? Catch all this and more as we skim through the best cricketing stories of March 25, Tuesday.
Shreyas Iyer eyeing T20 World Cup 2026
Shreyas Iyer made a stunning debut as Punjab Kings captain, scoring his highest IPL score of 97* against Gujarat Titans (GT). This superb performance has thrown his hat into the ring for a spot in India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad. With 11 months to go before the tournament, Iyer has ample time to make his case. Notably, he’s changed his approach to batting, striking at 230.95 in his latest innings, and has expressed his desire to bat at number three, a position currently occupied by Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma. He’s currently the best Indian batter of spin bowling. Read more here.
Good news for LSG
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have received a boost with pacer Avesh Khan receiving fitness clearance from the BCCI’s Center of Excellence. Avesh had been rehabilitating from a knee injury since January and is expected to be available for selection in LSG’s next match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 27. This is a welcome relief for LSG, who have been dealing with injuries to several pacers, including Mohsin Khan, who has been ruled out of the tournament. Mayank Yadav still remains on the sidelines. Read more here.
What disadvantage for KKR?
A controversy is brewing between the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Eden Gardens curator Sujan Mukherjee over the pitch conditions. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane hinted at frustration with the pitch, suggesting it didn’t favor their spin bowlers. However, Mukherjee has refused to alter the pitch, citing IPL rules that franchises have no say in pitch preparation. The issue may escalate if KKR’s results don’t improve. Read more here.
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India A to prepare for ENG Tests
The India cricket team’s Test tour of England will begin on June 20 at Headingley. As preparation, India ‘A’ will play two 4-day practice matches against England Lions, starting on May 30. However, there may be a scheduling conflict with the IPL 2025 Final on May 25, leaving limited time for players to rest before the tour. The BCCI is still unsure about the India ‘A’ selection, with head coach Gautam Gambhir’s input likely to be sought. Read more here.
What did MS Dhoni say?
Mumbai Indians’ young spinner Vignesh Puthur had a heartwarming interaction with MS Dhoni after the CSK vs MI match. Dhoni asked Puthur his age and advised him to continue doing what brought him to the IPL. Puthur, a talented all-rounder from Kerala, had an impressive IPL debut with 3/32. MI bought him for ₹30 lakh in the IPL 2025 auction. Read more here.
Who is Priyansh Arya?
Priyansh Arya made a stunning IPL debut for Punjab Kings, scoring 47 off 23 balls against Gujarat Titans. The 20-year-old left-hander showcased impressive stroke play, hitting 7 fours and 2 sixes at a strike rate of 204.35. Despite a few close calls, Arya’s timing and shot selection stood out, setting the tone for an electrifying knock. His performance follows a successful stint in the Delhi Premier League, where he topped the run charts with 608 runs. Read more about Priyansh Arya here.
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