The International Masters League (IML) has announced the schedule and squads for its first season, starting on February 22. The tournament will started with an exciting match between India and Sri Lanka in Navi Mumbai.  

IML 2025 has  six teams -India, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Australia, West Indies, and England made up of retired cricket legends. The matches will be played in three cities. The first five games in Navi Mumbai, followed six matches in Rajkot and the tournament will move to Raipur for the semifinals and the grand finale.

IML 2025 Schedule: Full Fixtures, Stages, and Venues

Navi Mumbai Stage

February 22: India Masters vs Sri Lanka Masters – 7:30 PM

February 24: West Indies Masters vs Australia Masters – 7:30 PM

February 25: India Masters vs England Masters – 7:30 PM

February 26: South Africa Masters vs Sri Lanka Masters – 7:30 PM

February 27: West Indies Masters vs England Masters – 7:30 PM

Rajkot Stage

February 28: Sri Lanka Masters vs Australia Masters – 7:30 PM

March 1: India Masters vs South Africa Masters – 7:30 PM

March 3: South Africa Masters vs England Masters – 7:30 PM

March 5: India Masters vs Australia Masters – 7:30 PM

March 6: West Indies Masters vs England Masters – 7:30 PM

March 7: Australia Masters vs South Africa Masters – 7:30 PM

Raipur Stage

March 8: India Masters vs West Indies Masters – 7:30 PM

March 10: Sri Lanka Masters vs England Masters – 7:30 PM

March 11: West Indies Masters vs South Africa Masters – 7:30 PM

March 12: England Masters vs Australia Masters – 7:30 PM

Semi-Finals & Final

March 13: Semi-Final 1 – 7:30 PM (Raipur)

March 14: Semi-Final 2 – 7:30 PM (Raipur)

March 16: Final – 7:30 PM (Raipur)

ALSO READ: If Cricket Was a Game of Chess, These 5 Players Would Be Grandmasters

International Masters League 2025: Full Team Squads

India Masters Squad

Australia Masters Squad

West Indies Masters Squad

England Masters Squad

South Africa Masters Squad

Sri Lanka Masters Squad

International Masters League 2025: Where to Watch

TV Telecast:

• Colors Cineplex SD/HD
• Colors Cineplex Superhits

Live Streaming:

• Disney+ Hotstar (India)

The International Masters League (IML) T20 2025 promises a thrilling display of world-class cricket as great cricketers from all corners of the globe come out to have some fun in a T20 competition. Scheduled to kick off on February 22, 2025. when some of the biggest names in cricket captain six teams, every team representing a major cricketing nation.

Participating Teams and Captains

• India Masters – Captain: Sachin Tendulkar
• Sri Lanka Masters – Captain: Kumar Sangakkara
• West Indies Masters – Captain: Brian Lara
• Australia Masters – Captain: Shane Watson
• South Africa Masters – Captain: Jacques Kallis
• England Masters – Captain: Eoin Morgan

Venues for IMLT20:

• Navi Mumbai
• Vadodara
• Raipur

ALSO READ: Probable Finalists of the Champions Trophy 2025

Schedule for IMLT20 2025:

Schedule according to the venues and Date :

Navi Mumbai

Raipur

THE FULL SCHEDULE OF IML T20:

- Navi Mumbai, Vadodara, Raipur to host the legendary cricketers like Sachin, Sangakkara, Yuvraj, Watson, Morgan, Gayle, Lara. pic.twitter.com/Cd3OCAyjqs

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 5, 2025

Livestream and Telecast:

Fans can watch live in Disney+Hotstar, while Colors cinplex SD/HD and Colors cinplex Supherhits will telecast.

Have fun watching your cricket legends in to an action.

Cricket fans are  extremely happy about the first ever International Masters League (IML) for cricket happening in 2025. Famous cricket players such as Chris Gayle, Makhaya Ntini, and Monty Panesar are all going to play, which is making it even more exciting for fans all over the world. The IML is going to be like a big celebration where all the greatest cricket legends come together to play matches. 

Chris Gayle Joins Legends for Inaugural International Masters League 2025

There's going to be a major sports event from February 22 to March 16, 2025. It will be in three places: Navi Mumbai, Rajkot, and Raipur. A portion of the best players will be there, such as Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, and Kumar Sangakkara. Chris Gayle, who can hit the ball very hard, is going to be playing for the West Indies Masters team. There are also two other amazing players. Makhaya Ntini, who Blows the ball very fast, is from South Africa. And there's Monty Panesar, who's very good at Spinning , and he's from England. They will be the Captains of their teams.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 #𝐈𝐌𝐋𝐓𝟐𝟎 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡-𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝! 🤩

Block your dates 🗓️, grab your snacks & get ready for an epic showdown! 😍✨

Catch the action LIVE, 7:30 PM onwards ➡️ @DisneyPlusHS, @Colors_Cineplex & #ColorsCineplexSuperhits 📲📺 pic.twitter.com/4chR4udqq7

— INTERNATIONAL MASTERS LEAGUE (@imlt20official) January 29, 2025

Gayle, a name with explosive batting, has been one of the most entertaining players in T20 cricket history. With a remarkable career spanning over 463 T20 matches, Gayle has scored more than 14,500 runs at an impressive strike-rate of 144.75, including 22 centuries and 88 fifties. His all-round ability and showmanship have made him a fan favorite across the globe, and his presence in the West Indies Masters squad will undoubtedly bring firepower to the team. 

Gayle-storm is loading at #IMLT20! 🌪️ Stay tuned for some 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐬𝐬 power! 🤩

Master Chris Gayle has arrived, and you already know what’s coming! Sixes, Entertainment & a whole lot of firepower! 🔥✨#BaapsOfCricket pic.twitter.com/FkX0fXNqm6

— INTERNATIONAL MASTERS LEAGUE (@imlt20official) February 3, 2025

Reflecting on his return to competitive cricket, Gayle expressed, “It’s always exciting to get back on the field and entertain fans. The IML is a fantastic platform to relive those big moments and share the stage with some of the best in the game. I’m ready to bring the Universe Boss energy to this league.” Tendulkar, who will captain the Indian team, and Brian Lara, leading the West Indies team, will spearhead their respective squads in what is expected to be a fierce competition.

ALSO READ: India vs. England ODI Series 2025: Schedule, Squads, Probable Playing XI, When & Where to Watch

Let the 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 decide! 😍 Which team of Masters are you backing in the #IMLT20?

Comment below with the heart that represents your favourite captain & team! 💬⬇️#Cricket #CricketFans pic.twitter.com/Mgd27idvj1

— INTERNATIONAL MASTERS LEAGUE (@imlt20official) January 28, 2025

With Gayle bringing his raw power, Ntini his fiery pace, and Panesar his spin magic, the IML 2025 is shaping up to be a spectacular celebration of cricket's rich legacy. Fans worldwide can look forward to witnessing a thrilling contest that honors the game's greatest talents, all while creating new, unforgettable memories for future generations of cricket lovers.

ICC Champions Trophy: Top 5 Most Winning Captains in the History 
The ICC Champions Trophy is one of the most important tournaments in International cricket . For many years, a number of great captains have come and gone, each leading their team to numerous wins with exemplary leadership, tactical acumen and resilience. This is a comprehensive look at top 5 ICC Champions trophy, lifted by most winning captains. 

1.Ricky Pointing(12 Wins)

Rickey Pointing one  of the most successful captains of cricket history and his legacy in the ICC Champions Trophy He is the one and only captain with the most wins in the Champions (12 Wins) For 16 matches he only suffered 3 and one match is no result. He has the tactical captaincy he is the only one who dominates the champians trophy he also has a back-to-back winning streak in 2006 and 2009. 

Major Key Achievements 

• Champians in 2006 and 2009
• 12 wins in 16 matches
• One of the highest win percentage captain

2.Brian Lara(11 Wins):

In ICC Champions Trophy, Brian Lara who was one of the greatest batsmen in history also turned out to be a feared leader. Lara made 15/4 for West Indies, winning 11, just losing only 4.
He had his biggest success in 2004 when West Indies managed to lift their one and onlyICC Champions Trophy. With Lara  West Indies are incredible in a final last over magic at The Oval as they chase a heavy total. This was one of Lara's last great ICC tournaments wins for West Indies, which made him a true inspiration.

Major Key Achievements:

• Champions in 2004
• 11 wins in 15 matches

3.Stephen Fleminig(8Wins):

New Zealand's first big ICC win Stephen Fleming was a born ICC leader for New Zealand that took them to their first-ever ICC title in the 2000 Champions Trophy. He captained New Zealand 13 Matches, winning 8 and losing 5 in all.

India was defenseless when they faced New Zealand in 2000 (final), as they chased down a tough target in a beautiful game. Fleming was a cool and collected captain, who helped New Zealand to reach where they were. 

Major Key Achievements:

• First champian ship in 2000
• 13 matches 8 wins
• Firsr captain to win the trophy

ALSO READ:Is Ishan Kishan really sidelined from Indian team questions former cricketer

4.Sourav Ganguly(7Wins)

Sourav Ganguly the aggressive fearless captaincy (11 Champions Trophy matches won 7, Lost 2 came no-results and led India) Ganguly was the key lead in the 2002 joint success of Indian team at Champions Trophy India vs sri lanka were co-champions as final went wrong due to rain. Also made it to the final in 2000 but this time they lost to New Zealand.Ganguly steered India for years ahead as he groomed many young players and instilled the no-compromise for  future Indian Champions in ICC events.

Major Key Achievements :

• Join winners in 2002 
• Finalists in 2000
• 11 matches 7 wins 

5.MS.Dhoni(6 Wins)

MS Dhoni is one of the greatest captains cricket has ever seen, and he led India to their second ICC Champions Trophy title in 2013. India went undefeated throughout the tournament, winning all their matches under his leadership.Dhoni captained India in 8 Champions Trophy matches, with 6 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no result. He was very composed and calm under pressure, which made all the difference for India.
This victory made Dhoni the first captain to win all three major ICC white-ball tournaments-the T20 World Cup (2007), Cricket World Cup (2011), and Champions Trophy (2013).

Major key Achievements:

• Champians in 2013
• 8 matche 6 wins
• Only captain to wins trophies in all formats

International Masters League 2025: Season Opener Between Sachin Tendulkar vs Kumar Sangakkara from February 22 The International Masters League (IML) 2025 will kick-start on 22nd February a pre-2025. The league-based T20 that will see a parade of the very best T20 cricket players return to the ground all for nostalgia and showpiece fans.

It will not only be presented as the clash of two of greatest cricketing greats Sachin Tendulkar (IND) vs Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) in the opening match of tournament. The first game takes place at Navi Mumbai's iconic D.Y. Patil Stadium, where it all begins for the tournament.

Teams and Captains of the International Masters League 2025

• India: Sachin Tendulkar
• Sri Lanka: Kumar Sangakkara
• West Indies: Brian Lara
• Australia: Shane Watson
• South Africa: Jacques Kallis
• England: Eoin Morgan

Full schedule:

Semi-Finals and Final

LIVE STREAMING DETAILS:

The highly anticipated International Masters League (IML) is ready to take the world of cricket by storm, featuring legendary players from six cricketing powerhouses: India, Sri Lanka, Australia, England, South Africa, and the West Indies. This T20 franchise tournament, set to run from November 17 to December 8, will bring together iconic cricket captains, with India’s Sachin Tendulkar leading the charge for his nation. The action-packed event will see 18 thrilling matches unfold across multiple venues in India, blending nostalgia with high-energy cricket.

The tournament will kick off on November 17 at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai with an exciting fixture between India and Sri Lanka, rekindling the legendary rivalry between Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara. This will be followed by a second match featuring Australia, led by Shane Watson, against Jacques Kallis’ South Africa. Other thrilling fixtures will include West Indies, captained by Brian Lara, taking on Eoin Morgan's England, ensuring fans are in for a treat of world-class cricket from their favorite legends.

Captains ready to lead their teams

Iconic cricket stars will lead their respective teams in the IML, bringing their unparalleled experience and competitive spirit to the T20 format. Captains include Sachin Tendulkar (India), Brian Lara (West Indies), Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka), Shane Watson (Australia), Eoin Morgan (England), and Jacques Kallis (South Africa). With the tournament spread across key Indian cities, cricket lovers can expect exhilarating action as these legends reignite their historic rivalries on the field.

India's cricket legend and IML Ambassador, Sachin Tendulkar, shared his enthusiasm about the upcoming league: “I am excited to lead and represent India Masters in the IML. The action on the field will undoubtedly be competitive and exciting. All the players are thrilled to be part of this league, and it's a great opportunity to inspire the next generation while celebrating the sport we love.”

Brian Lara, captain of the West Indies team, added, “It’s going to be amazing to step back onto the field with such a talented group of players. The format is fast and exciting—exactly what the fans want.”

See Also: Mahmudullah announces T20I retirement date

Venues and schedule set for IML action

The IML matches will take place in three venues across India, beginning at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, where four matches will be held. The action then moves to Lucknow’s Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BRSABV) Ekana Cricket Stadium on November 21, with India taking on South Africa. Six matches will be played in Lucknow before the league shifts to Raipur, which will host eight matches, including the semi-finals and the grand finale on December 8.

League Commissioner Sunil Gavaskar stated, “It’s a wonderful opportunity for these stalwarts to showcase their skills and prove that they are still at the top of their game. Fans can expect exciting contests that will keep them on the edge of their seats.”

The league will crown its first-ever champion at the final in Raipur, where the best teams will battle for glory. The event promises to be a memorable celebration of cricket, with fans reliving iconic moments and enjoying top-class competition from their favorite legends.

During the tournament, fans can expect a balanced format with innings breaks providing moments to recap the action, analyze key performances, and gear up for the thrilling second half. With cricket icons back in action, the excitement will be palpable both on the field and in the stands.

Two of cricket’s finest batters, India’s Sachin Tendulkar and West Indies’ Brian Lara, broke numerous records during their illustrious careers, many of which still stand. Tendulkar is the all-time leading run-scorer in both Tests (15,921) and ODIs (18,426), while Lara holds the record for the highest score by a batter in Tests (400) and First Class Cricket (501). Despite their mutual admiration, Lara recently named a player he believes was even more naturally gifted than himself and Tendulkar: his former teammate Carl Hooper.

Lara’s admiration for Carl Hooper

In a candid revelation, Lara expressed his awe for Hooper’s raw talent, stating, “In terms of raw talent, Carl Hooper was the best player I have ever seen.” He also mentioned that legendary West Indies batter Vivian Richards held Hooper in high regard. “Viv Richards never discouraged anyone because he didn’t want them to be great like him. His sternness was just who he was, but he never wanted you not to do well. Viv loved Carl much more than he loved me, that’s for sure. But the way Viv shows love didn’t resonate with Carl,” Lara added.

“Carl was easily one of the best players I’ve ever seen. I would say that not even Tendulkar and myself would come close to that talent. Separate Carl’s career from playing to captaining and his numbers are very different. As a captain he averaged near to 50, so he enjoyed the responsibility. It’s sad that only as a captain did he fulfil his true potential,” Lara wrote.

“There were players in my time who challenged, or at least went past the 300 mark – Virender Sehwag, Chris Gayle, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Sanath Jayasuriya. They were pretty much aggressive players,” Lara told The Daily Mail.

“How many aggressive players do you have playing today? Especially in the England team. Zak Crawley and Harry Brook. Maybe in the Indian team? Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill. If they find the right situation, the records could be broken – both of them,” he added.

Potential record breakers

While reflecting on his career, Lara also identified current players who could potentially break his record of 400 runs in a Test innings. Recently, Lara picked two players each from England and India whom he believes have the capability to surpass his monumental score. Although he did not specify the names in this particular interview, his previous mentions often include talents like Joe Root and Ben Stokes from England, and Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from India, considering their remarkable batting prowess.

Lara’s acknowledgment of these modern-day cricketers highlights the evolution of the game and the continuous emergence of extraordinary talent. His admiration for Carl Hooper and recognition of current players underline the rich legacy of cricket and its enduring appeal.

See Also: Could Rinku Singh make his Test debut? Vikram Rathour supports the youngster’s potential – Cricket Winner

Brian Lara’s reflections on past and present cricketing talents offer a fascinating insight into the game’s history and its future. His praise for Carl Hooper and the potential of contemporary players to break records ensure that the legacy of great cricketing feats continues to inspire.

In a recent interview with The Daily Mail, legendary West Indies cricketer Brian Lara revealed two potential players who might break his famous 400-run record in Test cricket. Lara’s record, achieved in April 2004 against England, remains the highest individual score in Test cricket.

Reflecting on today’s cricket landscape, Lara highlighted the talents of two young Indian cricketers, Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, as possible contenders to surpass his monumental achievement.

Brian Lara’s historic 400-run innings

Brian Lara’s unbeaten 400 off 582 balls against England at the Antigua Recreation Ground is a landmark in cricket history. Achieved during the fourth Test match in 2004, Lara’s innings surpassed Matthew Hayden’s previous record of 380 runs. This feat solidified Lara’s status as one of cricket’s greatest batter and set a benchmark that has yet to be eclipsed by any active cricketer.

See Also: Replacing Jadeja in T20Is? India star shares honest thoughts

Potential record breakers

Brian Lara named Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal as the players most capable of breaking his 400-run record. According to Lara, these two Indian batters possess the talent, aggression, and capability required to achieve such a monumental task if they find themselves in the right situation.

“How many aggressive players do you have playing today? Especially in the England team. Zak Crawley and Harry Brook. Maybe in the Indian team? Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill. If they find the right situation, the records could be broken – both of them,” Lara said to The Daily Mail.

Shubman Gill: A Rising Star

Shubman Gill has quickly become one of the brightest talents in international cricket. Making his Test debut for India in 2020, Gill has consistently showcased his ability to score runs under pressure. With a highest score of 128 and an average of 35.52 across 25 Test matches, Gill’s potential for big innings is evident.

Yashasvi Jaiswal: The Young Prodigy

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s journey from humble beginnings to the international cricket stage is nothing short of inspirational. At just 22 years old, Jaiswal has already scored two double centuries in his nine-Test career, with a top score of 214 not out. His average of 68.53 and his three hundreds indicate a player with the temperament and skill to challenge Lara’s record.

Comparing the styles of Gill and Jaiswal

Gill and Jaiswal have distinct batting styles that could help them in breaking Lara’s record. Gill’s elegant stroke play and ability to handle fast bowling make him a formidable top-order batters.

In contrast, Jaiswal’s aggressive approach and proficiency against spin bowling allow him to dominate in different conditions. Both players have shown that they can build big innings, an essential trait for breaking a long-standing record.

Legendary West Indies batsman Brian Lara has issued a cautionary note to India and their head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024. Emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, Lara advised against over-reliance on superstars in the tournament.

India, despite naming an experienced squad for the global event, haven’t clinched the T20 World Cup title since its inception in 2007. With the tournament set to be jointly hosted by the USA and West Indies, Rohit Sharma’s Indian team aims to reverse their fortunes this time.

“Sometimes when you have a team with a lot of superstars, you forget the plan…”

Lara, speaking to PTI, acknowledged the absence of a few young talents in the Indian squad but advocated for trust in experienced players during major tournaments.

“Sometimes when you have a team with a lot of superstars, you forget the plan and you believe that the superstars can do it. They just have to turn up. Sometimes you may feel, as a coach, intimidated, telling Sir Vivian Richards or Virat Kohli, you know exactly what you expect of them,” Lara added.

“Obviously when you have such great players, you want to stick to that experience because you feel that they can do it and there’s nothing wrong with it,” he said referring to Kohli and Rohit.

He noted the challenge Dravid faces in managing the star-studded team, suggesting that with proper planning, India, under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, could emerge victorious in the upcoming edition.

“You’ve got a lot of exciting young players coming out and you also have that sort of conundrum. India have gone with a team that has experience. My advice, and it’s not my criticism, it’s my advice, to Rahul Dravid is to make sure and have a plan,” Lara stated.

He added, “The team is capable of winning the World Cup. Yes, it’s a team that have maybe a couple of youngsters missing because of the situation. But I still believe that if they plan properly. India could win the World Cup.”

See Also: Watch: Virat Kohli’s hilarious Punjabi chat with cricketers goes viral

India’s T20 World Cup squad update

India’s T20 World Cup squad boasts a formidable lineup, with Rohit Sharma leading the charge as captain, ably supported by Virat Kohli and promising talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Suryakumar Yadav in the batting department. Behind the stumps, the team relies on the dynamic duo of Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson to provide stability and firepower.

Hardik Pandya assumes the role of vice-captain, bringing his all-round prowess alongside Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja, ensuring depth and flexibility in both batting and bowling. The bowling attack features the spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav, complemented by the pace of Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Mohammed Siraj, offering a potent mix of skills to tackle any opposition in the quest for T20 World Cup glory.

In a thrilling encounter on Monday, April 22, Yashasvi Jaiswal, the talented opener for Rajasthan Royals, showcased his prowess with a match-winning century against Mumbai Indians at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Batting first, Mumbai Indians posted a competitive total of 179/9. In response, Rajasthan Royals comfortably chased the target in 18.4 overs, losing just one wicket.

Partnerships and Dominance

Jaiswal’s unbeaten century was the cornerstone of Rajasthan Royals’ emphatic victory. He and Jos Buttler provided a solid start, sharing a crucial 74-run partnership for the first wicket. While Buttler departed after scoring 35 runs, Jaiswal capitalized on his start and scored his second IPL century. His partnership with captain Sanju Samson further consolidated Rajasthan’s position, as they combined for an unbeaten 109-run stand. Jaiswal’s innings of 104 runs off 60 balls included nine boundaries and seven sixes, showcasing his exceptional strokeplay and power-hitting abilities.

See Also: Ruturaj’s century and Shivam’s fifty lift CSK total above 200 against LSG

Meeting with Brian Lara

After his outstanding performance, Jaiswal had the privilege of meeting the legendary Brian Lara. A video shared by Rajasthan Royals on social media captured the heartwarming moment when Jaiswal, brimming with excitement, embraced Lara. This encounter was a testament to Jaiswal’s resurgence and earned him accolades from the cricketing fraternity. The meeting was significant for Jaiswal, who expressed his excitement with a heartfelt “Finally.”

Lara’s Praise for Jaiswal

Brian Lara, impressed by Jaiswal’s innings against Mumbai Indians, showered praise on the young batsman. Lara highlighted Jaiswal’s responsibility, maturity, and impeccable shot selection during the innings. He commended Jaiswal’s ability to maintain a high strike rate while playing authentic cricketing shots, emphasizing his versatility across formats.

“Thank you so much, I really enjoyed from the start and I made sure I was watching the ball properly and playing proper cricketing shots. I’m trying to do what I am doing well, some days it comes good and some days it doesn’t, I’m not thinking much.

“I want to thank all my seniors the way they have guided me. I want to thank the Rajasthan Royals management and especially Sanga sir and Sanju bhai for giving me opportunities. I go out and give my best in the practice sessions and I’m so happy today,” he said.

Looking Ahead

With his confidence restored and momentum on his side, Jaiswal will be eager to carry forward his form as Rajasthan Royals prepare to face Lucknow Super Giants on April 27. His resurgence is a boon for his team and a testament to his potential as a future cricketing star.