Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant has been shortlisted for the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award. This is after his remarkable comeback to cricket after a severe car accident in December 2022. His recovery and return have been a motivating experience of resilience and grit
Pant is the second cricketer to be nominated for a Laureus, following Sachin Tendulkar, who was awarded the Laureus Sporting Moment Award in 2020 for India's 2011 World Cup triumph.
Pant's Inspirational Journey
After having incurred multiple injuries, such as damage to his knee ligaments, Pant went through a lengthy period of rehabilitation. His return to the cricketing arena was proof of his strength and will power. His nomination not only shows recognition for his individual accomplishment but also his influence on the sport and sport-lovers globally.
What is the Laureus World Sports Awards?
The Laureus World Sports Awards, popularly referred to as the "Oscars of Sport," recognize excellent performances in several sports categories such as Best Male & Female Sportsperson, Breakthrough of the Year, and Comeback of the Year. The winners are selected by the Laureus World Sports Academy, which comprises legendary sports persons.

🚨 NEWS ALERT 🚨

Rishabh Pant has been nominated for the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award! 🔥

The Indian keeper-batter becomes only the second cricketer ever to receive a nomination for the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards, after Sachin Tendulkar 🏆👏

A proud… pic.twitter.com/F9ZHiAyzaq

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) March 3, 2025

ALSO SEE: CCL 2025: Winners, Prize Money Breakdown & Top Performers

India's Presence at Laureus
While cricket is underrepresented at Laureus, India has left its imprint. In 2020, Sachin Tendulkar was awarded for his tearful 2011 World Cup moment. Now, Pant's nomination keeps India's expanding legacy on the international sporting stage.
When Will the Winners Be Announced?
The Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony happens every year, with the exact date to be released shortly. In any case, Rishabh Pant's odyssey is a win in itself for him and Indian cricket.

India's victory over New Zealand has taped the semi final slot for semi finals. As the group stages have come to an end. The four semi finalists ( India, New Zealand, South Africa and Australia) have lined up for the ultimate battle of Champions Trophy Trophy. India defeated Bangladesh by six wickets. They secured their second win against Pakistan by six wickets. Their final game was against New Zealand which they won by 44 runs. 

Australia faced their arch rivals England in their opening encounter of Champions Trophy securing a historic win chasing the 350 plus mamoth score, Thanks to Josh Inglis century by which they can achieve this target. Rest of their two matches were off due to rain securing two points in each game. 

India finished their pool as table toppers, whereelse in pool A Australia have secured top spot. Earlier without a confirmation it was deligated that both Australia and South Africa have to travel 2000 kilometers to Dubai which became the talk of town indicating a clear advantage to India. 

India Depicting the Advantage Against Australia In CT

In 50 overs cricket both the teams have the greatest rivalry but Australia has the highest win percentage against them. But in CT India clearly dominated them by securing 2-1. India defeated them in 1998 and in 2000 once conquered them by 20 runs. Australia trailed India in 2006 defeating them in their own fort by six wickets. In 2009 too they faced each other where Australia opted out to bat but due to rain match became abandoned. 

But if you see head to head matches between them its Australia who has the clear cut edge between these two teams. India and Australia have played total 151 matches between them, where

Australia - 84 wins

India -        57 wins

Read More - India Remains Unbeaten In Champions Trophy Faces Australia In Semi Finals

Whose Advantage On This Game

Australia domination over the years on Indian team is clearly predictible. Who would forgot about the 2003 World Cup final where Australia beat India by huge margin. Then they went on to win the 2007 world cup too, but after the retirement of Ponting, Australia surged back and had the trophy drought till 2015,where Micheal Clarke broke that jinks.

Read More : Jos Butler Pens Down From England Captaincy

Soon Australia started their dominating phase once again when Pat Cummins was appointed as Australia captain where they won the 2023 World Cup In India by beating India and won the Border Gavaskar trophy after 10 years. Now in this champions Trophy few of their key members are injured still they are fighting like an fresh lion. Now this decisive semi final too has a big advantage on Australia side but still India will have a constant drive. 

India has overcomed New Zealand by 44 runs which was the finest match of group B. Both the team had few changes in their team where New Zealand added Kane Williamson and India added Varun Chakravarthy. New Zealand won the toss and elected to field first, India had a shaky start losing Rohit and Subhman Gill earlier. Even the King couldn't hold his innings more and caught out early which dismayed India into serious trouble. Early wicket gainers had huge advantage for New Zealand. 

 New Zealand displayed why they are most successful team in this Trophy even they had slight change in the team. They were pro active in the field, but Shreyas Iyer had different plans. 

Iyer Stables The Innings

Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel started the re building phase though being an aggressive batter he didn't let the approach down. Even Axar too gave the needy support to the innings. Once they crossed the tuff phases they showed their class. Shreyas reached his well made 50. But Axar was removed on this process and Rahul backed the innings with Iyer. When everything seemed going well Iyer lose his wicket making well made 79 runs. 

Read More : Ms Dhoni Marks His Last Dance In IPL

 Though India were quite lacking the par score and in quick session they lost Rahul too. It was Hardik Pandya who rescued India from difficult phase scoring 45 runs of 45 balls rest others gave there sub contribution. Though India couldn't able to score 250 runs, they were a run short of that. 

Read More : Jos Butler Pens Down From England Captaincy

New Zealand Fall And Australia On Cards

It looked an easy chase for New Zealand team having depth in batting. But when the chase started it was totally vice versa for New Zealand where they lost Rachin Ravindra early. It was a huge plus for India. From there India got a slight gateway entering into the match. Soon Will Young departed giving a surprise to the New Zealand dugout.

It was Kane Williamson who anchored the innings but at the other he didn't get enough support. At the other end wickets were failing at regular intervals. Once a innings begun to built it was dismantled early, but Williamson was holding one end fighting like a lone warrior. He made well made 50 but couldn't finish the job for his team. He got stumped by Kl Rahul and after his departure it was pile of cards and India won the match by 44 runs, thanks to Varun Chakravarthy who got well made fifer in his Champions Trophy debut. 

 India is having a biggest hurdle on their semi final chart that is Australia who have given really a tuff time to them. Who would have forget Travis Head knock in World Cup final 2023. Will the trend continues it will be seen in mere time. 

Varun Chakravarthy and India crooned a redemption song on Sunday in Dubai, driving out the specters of the T20 World Cup 2021 by employing spin to tear New Zealand apart in their Group A encounter of the Champions Trophy 2025.

It was a battle between different styles, but India's four-spinner battalion overpowered New Zealand's pace-dominated style on a slow-wicket strip at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

India scored 249 runs in total, of which 124 came against New Zealand's spinners during 25 overs for losing only two wickets. They then defended the par score, courtesy of an awe-inspiring vice-like grip by their spinners. Prompted into the Champions Trophy team at the eleventh hour and given a spot in the XI for India's third Group A match, Varun Chakravarthy played a masterclass of spin bowling. The BlackCaps had no response to his magic, as he grabbed his first five-wicket haul in one-day internationals, rising to the occasion for India at the right time.

TAKE A BOW, VARUN CHAKRAVARTHY. 🙇

He's playing first Match in this Champions Trophy and he picked 5 wicket haul, his bowling figure (42/5) against New Zealand - What a Bowler. pic.twitter.com/eTK02eL5yk

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) March 2, 2025

ALSO SEE: Kane Williamson sets new ODI record for New Zealand against India

Varun Chakravarthy, who was an architect by profession before venturing into the cricketing arena, was wicketless in three matches played during the 2021 T20 World Cup, after which he was inactive for three years. But ever since he joined the senior national team in 2024, there has been no looking back for him.

Having picked up 31 wickets in 12 games in his second phase of T20I cricket, starting in 2024, Varun was added to India's Champions Trophy team. His head coach Gautam Gambhir, who had seen him perform firsthand at Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024, was instrumental in his surprise call-up for the big tournament -- one that was a masterstroke on the grand stage.

Varun was given his ODI debut in a series against England in February but sat on the bench for India's Group A encounters against Bangladesh and Pakistan in the Champions Trophy.

Cricket has its share of unpredictable moments but what is transpiring in the Champions Trophy 2025 defies belief There is a shock all around as the tournament is following almost the exact script of the 2023 ODI World Cup The similarities are so astonishing that people have started referring to it as cricket's biggest repeat moment.
A Tournament on Repeat
As the matches went on, fans began noticing unusual similarities It was not merely one or two coincidences but a whole pattern repeating itself.

• KL Rahul concluded the first match with a six just like in 2023
• India secured their second match while chasing and Virat Kohli remained unbeaten again
• Afghanistan beat England in a huge upset just like two years ago
• The same four teams made it to the semifinals India Australia New Zealand and South Africa

It is as if the script of the 2023 World Cup has been copied and pasted into the Champions Trophy

ALSO SEE: WATCH: Karun Nair Smashes His 9th Century to End a Fantastic Season in Ranji Trophy Final

pic.twitter.com/1VrpHWSRMc

— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) March 1, 2025

Coincidence or Something Bigger
This strange chain of events has left experts and fans baffled Is this a huge coincidence or do cricket matches have an unusual habit of repeating themselves Some think it is a mere statistical rarity while others think that it is fate playing its role.
What Happens Next
As the tournament progresses to the final stage the largest question now is whether the similarities are going to repeat If India and Australia are set to play in the final again like in 2023 then it will be impossible to turn a blind eye to this trend.
For the time being, fans are simply relishing the bizarre feeling of repetition But one thing is for sure the Champions Trophy 2025 has been one of the most discussed tournaments in the history of cricket.

Match Overview

• Tournament: ICC Champions Trophy 2025
• Fixture: India vs New Zealand
• Venue: Dubai International Stadium
• Date: March 2, 2025

India’s Probable XI :

ALSO SEE: ECL 2025: Full Schedule, New Teams, Match Timings & Must-Watch Matches

New Zealand’s Probable XI :

Head-to-Head in ICC Tournaments

• Champions Trophy 2000 Final: New Zealand defeated India to win their first ICC trophy.
• World Cup 2019 Semi-final: New Zealand knocked out India in a thrilling low-scoring game.
• World Test Championship 2021 Final: New Zealand defeated India to claim the inaugural WTC title.

India will be eager to avenge past ICC defeats, while New Zealand will look to continue their dominance in knockout matches.

Prediction and Key Battles to Watch

• Kohli vs Williamson – A battle between two of the best No. 3 batters.
• Arshdeep vs Conway – Can Arshdeep swing the new ball past Conway?
• Santner vs Pant – Left-arm spin vs left-handed power-hitting.

Both teams have the firepower to win, but India’s spin depth and batting strength might give them a slight edge in UAE conditions.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its knockouts, with four teams qualifying for the semi-finals. Following the grueling group stage with gripping matches, the best teams have come out to fight for the prestigious trophy.
The Semi-Finalists
India: Indiathundered into the semi-finals as the best team from Group A. With consistent performances throughout the tournament, they have proved their might in both batting and bowling. With a potent captain leading the team, India will be looking to do what they have been doing till now and reach the final.
New Zealand: Kiwis have proved once more why they are among the most competitive sides in international cricket. With deciding wins in the group stage, they reserved their place in the semi-finals of Group A for themselves, along with India. Their well-balanced side, comprising old warriors and dashing young blood, will be keen to leave an impression in the knockout stages.
Australia: Australia progressed to the semi-finals from Group B when their last group game against Afghanistan was rain-abandoned. Their attacking style of cricket, supported by a strong batting pool and a deadly pace attack, makes them a top contender to lift the trophy.
South Africa: South Africa captured the last semi-final berth on the back of some great showings in the group stage. They possess a great bowling line-up and have a dynamic top-order batting, which will pose a stiff test to their knockout stage opponents.
ALSO SEE:  Watch: Why Pakistan Cricket Board trolled by cricket fans

Road to the Knockouts
1. India dominated Group A with dominating victories against tough teams. Their all-round performance has made them stand out as a strong title favorite.
2. New Zealand trailed just behind, earning their spot with a formidable group-stage performance.
3. Australia earned their place in the semi-final based on their higher Net Run Rate (NRR), despite interruptions due to weather.
4. South Africa is the last semi-finalist from the top teams, establishing themselves. 
What's Next?
The semi-finals guarantee high-octane drama, with every team having something special to offer. India and New Zealand will hope to carry forward their momentum, while Australia will seek to carry on their winning tradition. South Africa, with their well-rounded team, will be keen to end their knockout-stage curse and make it to the final.
With cricket enthusiasts across the globe waiting with bated breath for the knockout stage, the Champions Trophy 2025 promises to bring some unforgettable moments.

Champions Trophy league matches are on its end where today Australia and Afghanistan will be tackling for the remaining semifinalists spot. Next India going to take on the most balanced side of Champions Trophy New Zealand on March 2. India will be exbhiting his bench strength against that game as both the team have already qualified for semi finals. 

 India has few injury concerns too where captain himself will be available is the talk of the town. During the match against Pakistan, Rohit Sharma injured himself while sliding on field. Later it was confirmed that he had catched his hamstring. New Zealand would also try their bench strength to regain their solidity. 

Read More : Sachin Tendulkar Praises Afghanistan Team After Their Victory Against England In Champions Trophy

Black Caps Eyeing For The Trophy

New Zealand have outclassed their opponents in this Champions Trophy edition first they beat Pakistan who were hosting the tournament. Then they beat Bangladesh while chasing a tricky target  where Bangladesh gave a tuff time to black caps but Rachin Ravindra brilliant knock constrained their effort and paved their way to semi finals. 

 Though New Zealand would also try to utilize their bench stregnth to identify the positives of their players though they are considered as well balanced side of the Champions Trophy. They have that constructed side which has every department ticked right from batters to bowlers. They have the every possible chance to win the Champions Trophy. 

Read More : Once Again Afghanistan And Australia Face Other In Quater Final

India's Stamping Authority

Wherelse India is most consistent winning side who use their resources well. India still lacking their main resource Jasprit Bumrah who can be lethal with his pace. But due to back strain injury which occurred in Bgt series has sidelined him for Champions Trophy. Though Mohammad Shami has been added in the squard after his recovery. Now few recent concern are occuring in team. 

 During latest practice session Captain Rohit Sharma and Vice Captain Subhman Gill were missing, rather than rest of the squard were in practice session. Indian team can't afford more injuries for now though they have backup but disturbing the core team will affect the balance. Though both team will have some definite changes to examine their bench strength. It is assumed that Shami and Rohit may be rested. Rishabh Pant may get a game to play and Kl Rahul may get the opening slot. 

Indian cricket superstar Ajinkya Rahane has been named as the brand ambassador of the West Zone Finals for the SOGF Grandmasters Series, a huge mind sports competition run by the Skillhub Online Games Federation (SOGF). The initiative showcases Rahane's backing for intellectual sports like online chess and chess for the blind.

A Major Boost for Mind Sports
The SOGF Grandmasters Series has become one of the country's premier stages for strategy-driven tournaments in India, with contests such as Indian Rummy, Chess Masters, and Chess for the Blind. The tournament, which has recorded more than 150,000 registrations, has seen increased popularity, fostering thinking abilities, strategical prowess, and inclusiveness.

RAHANE BACKS ONLINE CHESS & CHESS FOR BLIND..!!! 🇮🇳

Rahane is set to become the Brand ambassador for SOG Grandmasters, great to see cricketers supporting & helping mind sports to grow in the country. pic.twitter.com/YAPcRlCs7F

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 28, 2025

Referring to his alignment with SOGF, Rahane spoke about the enthusiasm he had for being involved with an effort that encourages mental discipline and problem-solving skills.

ALSO SEE: India vs Pakistan Could Face Off Three Times in Asia Cup 2025

"Mindsports such as chess take unimaginable concentration and strategic reasoning similar to cricket. I feel blessed to endorse a tournament which provokes the participation of these same skills from its players and lends a window through which the nation can watch out for their prowess," Rahane said.

West Zone Finals: The Road to Nationals
The West Zone Final of the SOGF Grandmasters Series will be held on March 3-4, 2025, and will unite the best of the region. The champions will proceed to the National Final in New Delhi in April 2025.

This tournament seeks to close the difference between physical and mental sports and bring young minds to it, while also seeing that visually challenged players receive their due.

Rahane's Increasing Role in Chess Promotion
Ajinkya Rahane's partnership with the SOGF Grandmasters Series is another milestone in the increasing trend of cricketers supporting mind sports. His support for chess for the blind is also in line with international initiatives to make chess more inclusive and accessible.

With Rahane's support, the SOGF Grandmasters Series will gain more visibility and participation, motivating more young talents to take up mind sports.

India vs Pakistan May Clash Three Times in Asia Cup 2025
Cricket enthusiasts are thrilled as India and Pakistan may clash with each other thrice in the Asia Cup 2025. The tournament is likely to be conducted in September 2025 with a T20 format. The competition will feature eight teams: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong.
Possible Match Scenarios
The tournament structure implies that India and Pakistan will be in the same group. They will, therefore, play against each other at least once in the group stages. If both teams make it to the Super Four stage, they will play again. Furthermore, if both teams make it to the final, they will play each other for a third time in the competition.

ASIA CUP 2025 UPDATES: [Cricbuzz]

- T20I format.
- 8 teams (IND, PAK, SL, BAN, AFG, Oman, UAE, HK)
- 19 games.
- India vs Pakistan could potentially play 3 times.
- UAE or SL as venues.
- September 2nd week to 4th week pic.twitter.com/bb4BiOFhmX

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 27, 2025

Venue Considerations
As a result of political rivalry between India and Pakistan, the matches will be played at neutral grounds. Sri Lanka and the UAE are being considered by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) as potential venues. This comes after other tournaments where India and Pakistan played on neutral grounds in order to circumvent travel restrictions and security issues.

ALSO READ:Asia Cup 2025: A Cricketing Spectacle Awaits

Historical Rivalry
India and Pakistan have a long history of cricket in the Asia Cup. They have played 19 matches in the competition so far, with India winning 10 matches and Pakistan winning 7 matches. Two matches did not yield a result. Their matches are always high-stakes and are watched by millions of viewers globally.