The International Masters League (IML) 2025 is all set to back the cricket legends to the field, and Australia Masters have announced their squad with Shane Watson as captain. Their matches starts from February 24, 2025, in Navi Mumbai, first match against West Indies Masters in their opening match.

Shane Watson to Lead Australia Masters in International Masters League 2025

Watson, said, "Playing in India always feels special, it brings back so many great memories. The rivalry between Australia and India is intense, and we love that challenge. Leading Australia Masters in the IML is a huge honor, and our goal is simple to win the trophy. With so many great players in the league, it won’t be easy, but we are ready to give our best."

The tournament is ready for the cricket fans, bringing back some of the most exciting rivalries. Fans can  see the most thrilling clash between India and Australia, where Tendulkar’s batting skills will be tested against Watson’s all-round abilities. Meanwhile, Lara’s attacking shots will challenge Australia’s bowlers, Kallis’ all-round game will make South Africa a tough opponent, Sangakkara’s experience will be crucial for Sri Lanka, and Morgan’s leadership will strengthen England’s challenge.

🚨 𝑩𝑹𝑬𝑨𝑲𝑰𝑵𝑮 🚨

Australia Masters' 15-member squad is out for the International Masters T20 League (IML)! 🇦🇺🏏

All-rounder Shane Watson will lead the side as the tournament kicks off on 22nd February 💪#IML #ShaneWatson #T20s #Australia #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/tfOIADT7eo

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) February 14, 2025

Australia Masters is co-owned by Indian-American entrepreneurs Hari Agrawal, Ajay Gupta, and Ruchika Gupta, who aim to bring this league. Hari Agrawal, founder of CNA Group, said that, "Cricket is all about skill, strategy, and endurance, but we also need to think about sustainability. This league is a great opportunity to promote a greener future for the game." Ajay Gupta, saying, "Cricket builds friendships, creates unforgettable moments, and unites communities. That’s what makes it so special."

ALSO READ: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – Predicted Playing XIs for India and Pakistan match

Ruchika Gupta, Founder & CEO of Health Click Away, highlighted the link between sports and fitness, saying, "Good health and performance go hand in hand. Cricket is a passion shared by both India and Australia, and through this bond, we can inspire people to focus on fitness and healthy living." With legendary players, exciting rivalries, and for the future, the IML 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience for cricket fans around the world.

 Australia Masters squad 

 Australia Masters full schedule

With a week to go  for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed the lineup of Event Ambassadors that will feature to add to the fan experience.

Pakistan’s 2017 winning captain Sarfaraz Ahmed features in an all-star cast that also boasts two-time champion, Australia’s Shane Watson, Player of the Series in India’s 2013 trophy-winning campaign, Shikhar Dhawan, and New Zealand’s legendary fast bowler, Tim Southee.

THE BRAND AMBASSADORS FOR CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2025:

- Shikhar Dhawan, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shane Watson, Tim Southee. pic.twitter.com/a2A49dmB0R

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 12, 2025

Brand Ambassadors view on this mega event :

Sarfaraz Ahmed: “I will never forget how special it felt to don the white jackets and lift the trophy aloft as Pakistan captain back in 2017. Seeing the nation get behind us and celebrate that success is also something that’s very close to my heart, so I am delighted to see the competition return to the cricket calendar and see my country given the opportunity to host such a special event. The format means that every game is so important, and I can’t wait to play my part as an Ambassador and witness the tournament first-hand.”

ALSO SEE : TATA WPL 2025 Ticket Booking: Dates, Venues, Prices & How to Buy

Shikhar Dhawan: “It is such a special feeling to be part of a Champions Trophy, and to be given the opportunity to enjoy the upcoming edition as an Ambassador is an honour. Over the next few weeks, we’ll see the best sides in the world competing for the white jackets knowing that one mistake or one loss could spell the end of their hopes. It’s the ultimate competition where it’s all on the line, and that is what makes it such a thrilling spectacle.”

Tim Southee: “I am thrilled to be an Ambassador for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. It is an event that I always enjoyed playing in and one that always delivers on entertainment and drama. As a player, you’re aware that every game, every ball and every moment matters in the Champions Trophy format, and with so much at stake, I can’t wait to see how the action will unfold.”

Shane Watson: “The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is a truly unique event that has provided us with so many unforgettable moments down the years. With the top eight teams going head-to-head for the iconic white jackets, we are sure to see some extraordinary do-or-die cricket across three thrilling weeks.”

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.

Shane Watson Confident Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Will Thrive in Champions Trophy Despite Test Struggles

Shane Watson, who used to play for Australia, thinks that even though Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli haven't been nailing it in Test cricket lately, they're going to perform well in the Champions Trophy that's coming up. Mr. Watson's watched a lot of Indian cricket and says that, despite some rough times in the longer version of the game, these two men are something else when it comes to T20s and ODIs.Watson's pretty happy about how Sharma and Kohli handle the important moments, saying this is when they really show what they're made of. You might hold credence that their recent not-so-great phase in Test cricket would put doubts in their minds, but Watson's quick to drive home the point that playing in the Champions Trophy is an entirely different ballgame.

Mr. Watson's basically saying, the Champions Trophy? That's where Sharma and Kohli put the pedal to the metal. According to Watson, their skills in the shorter formats, plus how they've played before in major ICC tournaments, mean they're likely to come out on top, even when the pressure is high. The thing is, Kohli and Sharma have been there, done that.Kohli's one of the legends in ODI cricket, always showing up and scoring big when everyone's watching.  separately , Sharma's the man who starts strong and keeps the team's innings steady. Even if their Test cricket hasn't been great, Watson thinks their experience and their knack for raise their game in tight spots are reasons to bet on them.

Shane Watson on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for the Champions Trophy.pic.twitter.com/kdDdbAFSP5

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 6, 2025

Watson didn't forget to mention how Sharma's killer instinct in limited-overs matches and Kohli's bold play are exactly what India needs to turn things around in a blink. It sounds like, no matter what's been happening in Test matches, when it comes to the Champions Trophy, Watson believes these two have got it in them to place all the doubts on the back burner, with some exceptional cricket.

ALSO READ: Big Bash League Thrilled by Max Bryant’s Stunning 106m Strike!

Virat Kohli - ODI Profile

Rohit Sharma - ODI Profile

Watson believes that Sharma and Kohli, the two star Indian players, will bounce back from their rough patch in Test cricket during the Champions Trophy. Mr. Watson points out how their a large amount of experience and previous focused wins in ICC events are vitally important for India's hopes of winning the tournament. As the major game gets closer, everyone's extremely excited to see if Sharma and Kohli can forget their awful form in the last few Tests and bring India to the top once more. Watson's pretty hopeful that they'll demonstrate their amazing skills in a competition that really fits them, especially after having a tough time in Test cricket.

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.

Former Australia as well as Chennai all-rounder Shane Watson shared that he believes the Chennai Super Kings won’t hesitate to send MS Dhoni higher up the batting order, if needed in their much-awaited IPL 2024 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad on Friday, April 5.

CSK lost their last game to DC

However, Watson said that CSK back different things and expressed confidence that they will bounce back from the defeat in their previous game as well. Notably, Chennai are placed in the top 4 of the IPL 2024 points table early in the season, having won two of their first three games as well. The Super Kings were lost to Delhi in Visakhapatnam on March 31 as they failed to chase 192 on a good batting pitch as well.

Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and his opening partner Rachin Ravindra failed to score well at the top and Chennai were playing catch-up in their chase against Delhi, who opened their account in IPL 2024 after facing a MS Dhoni scare as he smashed an unbeaten 17-ball 36 with 3 sixes and 4 boundaries.

ALSO READ: Zaheer Khan shares MS Dhoni’s plans after IPL 2024

“CSK will be learning from the little things that went wrong against the Delhi in their last game and make the most of the things that went incredibly well. One thing was Dhoni, the way he batted, coming in late in the game, which will mean that hopefully, he’ll move up the order when an opportunity presents itself, because he batted as well as I’ve seen him for a long time,” Shane Watson told JioCinema.

MS Dhoni played a swashbuckling knock

“The lessons that CSK learned, that’s the reason why they’ve been so successful for so long because they’ll find out little elements they need to get better, they need to execute better and where they went wrong and they’ll learn from that. So they’ll be ready to go against Hyderabad,” he further added.

However, Chennai Super Kings have a good head-to-head record against the SunRisers Hyderabad with a 14-5 record, but the 5-time IPL Title winner will face a tough test against SunRisers who will be keen on bouncing back in the winning zone after their defeat to Gujarat in Ahmedabad. On the other hand, SRH will be confident to leave a mark at home after registering the IPL record for the highest total – 277 against Mumbai Indians as well.

The CSK vs RR rivalry is one which goes back a long way but is often unspoken about. Both sides were in the first ever IPL Final, both have trophies and both teams have a handful of wins against each other. While the Rajasthan Royals may not have the best record overall in the IPL, they have often come out on top against the Chennai Super Kings when not many sides expected them too.

CSK vs RR, IPL Finals 2008

The first thrilling encounter between the two sides was the 2008 IPL Finals. RR came into the match as underdogs against a side full of superstars. Having won the toss and choosing to chase, RR conceded 163 runs. Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni threatened to take the game away from the Royals as both got decent starts, while Dhoni gave a strong finishing kick.

With a stiff chase in a high-pressure game at that time, Yusuf Pathan bailed the Rajasthan Royals out. He made a half-century, while Shane Warne took his side home on the last ball of the game, capping off a thrilling CSK vs RR encounter.

CSK vs RR, Chennai 2010

CSK came into the game against Rajasthan Royals with a lot of work to do. They needed a string of wins to qualify and had lost their previous encounter against the Royals in the same season. With a tough ask ahead though, the Chennai Super Kings batting line-up stepped up and did the job for the Chennai Super Kings. Murali Vijay came out that day and batted the Royals out of the game. He scored 127 runs in an innings with 11 hits over the boundary, and his partnership with Albie Morkel took the Chennai Super Kings to a mammoth 246.

The score was big, but the game was not over yet. The Rajasthan Royals showed some fight themselves and made a valiant effort to reach the target. Naman Ojha responded to Murali Vijay with a 94 of his own while Shane Watson matched Albie Morkel with a 25 ball 60. The knocks though were not enough as lack of contributions from the others saw RR fall 23 runs short in this CSK vs RR encounter.

See Also: IPL 2022: Match 69, MI vs DC Match Prediction – Who will win today’s IPL Match? – Cricket Winner

CSK vs RR Pune 2018

Unlike in 2010, this time around Rajasthan Royals were in need of a desperate turnaround. They came into this game needing a string of wins to qualify and were made to field first. Like in 2008, Suresh Raina threatened to take the game away from Rajasthan while MS Dhoni gave a finishing kick of his own. The Chennai Super Kings though were restricted in the middle-overs thanks to Ish Sodhi and eventually ended at 176.

The target was still a steep one on a slow Pune track. Jos Buttler though, promoted up the order played an innings that changed his career. He attacked and batted till the last over to seal the game in the penultimate ball. He finished with 95, and his tournament took an upward curve from that game as he cemented his spot as an opener for both Rajasthan and England.

CSK vs RR, Jaipur 2019

The CSK vs RR game in 2019 saw one of the more controversial IPL events take place. The game was a nail-biter, overshadowed by an event in the final over. Chasing 151, CSK made a meal of the chase losing four early wickets. A partnership which saw Rayudu and Dhoni make fifties bought CSK back in the game, but the task was still a stiff one as the game reached its final over.

With 18 needed of six balls, Ben Stokes probably bowled one of the most eventful final overs in the IPL. The first ball saw Ravindra Jadeja hit a six as he and Ben Stokes both fell onto the pitch during the delivery. There was a no-ball and then a perfect Yorker which saw Dhoni get bowled. The very next ball, there was another controversy as a no-ball was called by one umpire for height, while the square leg umpire said it wasn’t a no-ball.

Amid all the confusion, MS Dhoni walked out to see what was going on and in the end the no-ball was revoked. With three needed of the final delivery, Mitchell Santner cleared the ropes, sealing what was a very thrilling encounter between the two sides.