A number of top-ranking cricketers scored some classical runs, setting the platform for some unforgettable moments in the high voltage of IPL clashes. Virat Kohli has made a league-best score of 1053 runs, whereas MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, and Faf du Plessis have also been pivotal to the success of both the teams. The battle of two superpowers is hosting lots of tense situations, with every match becoming the latest chapter of IPL history.

Virat Kohli-The Leading Run-Getter:

The iconic Virat Kohli had been the top run-scorer in CSK vs. RCB matches with 1053 runs to his name. The consistent century-maker and the aggressive batsman who has treated CSK bowlers as his nightmare all along. There is no doubt that Kohli's fantastic performances have been the reason for some amazing moments like centuries and fifties and also for his dominance.

Most runs in CSK vs RCB IPL matches

1053 - Virat Kohli
765 - MS Dhoni
616 - Suresh Raina
519 - Faf du Plessis#IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/kLXOzwi46l

— CRIC INSIGHTS (@Insights4Cric) March 28, 2025

Also read:GT vs MI: Match 09 Weather and Pitch report IPL 2025

Other Batting Icons in the CSK-RCB Rivalry:

• MS Dhoni-With 765 runs, Dhoni has played some of the most memorable finishing knocks in this rivalry, guiding CSK to victory on multiple occasions.
• Suresh Raina-the iconic player from the Chennai Super Kings—has made 616 runs in this rivalry, demonstrating his aggressive approach and that he is a big-game player.
• Faf du Plessis,having played for both CSK and RCB, has registered 519 runs, showcasing his adaptability and consistency.
• AB de Villiers-The bold batting of AB de Villiers, undoubtedly, was giving RCB a lot of wins over CSK.
• Shane Watson represented both teams at different times, and he gave an unforgettable inning in the 2018 IPL final by scoring a century for CSK.
• Ruturaj Gaikwad-As a fast-rising star for CSK, Gaikwad made a huge impression in the previous seasons by playing a lot of classical shots in a very fluent manner.

With these batting giants shaping the CSK vs. RCB rivalry, fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling battles in future IPL seasons.

Also read:IPL 2025: Sara Ali Khan to light up Guwahati as IPL celebrates 18 glorious years

Shane Watson, the former Australian all-rounder, has suggested that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ought to be very careful ahead of their clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Chepauk during IPL 2025. He is of the opinion that, while RCB walked away with a comfortable victory over Kolkata Knight Riders, it is nothing compared to the harder tackle awaiting them at Chennai.

“It’s going to be a huge challenge for RCB to go to Chepauk, especially with how difficult the bowlers tend to make it for CSK. RCB will probably have to make changes to their team in order to meet CSK's demands. But do not get me wrong – Chepauk is a fortress,” said Watson.

Watson, who has represented CSK and RCB, noted that the finest feature of Chennai is the abundance of spinners. "CSK’s entire setup is built around playing well in Chennai. Just watch the three spinners who steamrolled MI in their opening game – Ashwin, Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad. On that pitch, they are going to be a real handful." He also commended Noor Ahmad for his impressive performance during his CSK debut, remarking that this will certainly raise the morale of the team by providing another reliable wicket-taker.

Ex-CSK Star Warns RCB Ahead Of IPL 2025 Clash: "Make No Mistake..." #CSKvRCB #IPL2025 https://t.co/RULCCMfyUS

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) March 27, 2025

Also Read: New Zealand captain out of Pakistan ODIs

In the meantime, Watson noticed the difficulties in the spinning department of the Rajasthan Royals and pointed out the absence of quality options against KKR. He believes that spin will play a crucial role in this season’s IPL, especially at venues like Chepauk, where teams like CSK thrive.  

With RCB heading into this challenging encounter, all eyes will be on how they adapt to the spin-friendly conditions in Chennai.

The Indian Premier League has not only provided a platform for young players but has also allowed some out-of-turn careers to resurrect themselves after injuries or even a slow phase. There have been countless names over the years who have taken benefits out of IPL to reignite their careers, catching the eye of the national team, thereby slowly gaining back their lost legacy. Here is a brief about a few biggest names who have turned around their careers, thanks to the IPL.

1. Shane Watson (Australia)

Before joining the Rajasthan Royals in the first season of the IPL in 2008, Shane Watson struggled with injuries and inconsistencies in international cricket. However, his all-round performances in the IPL renewed him into relevance, which included winning the Player of the Tournament award in 2008. He then went on to become a mainstay once again for Australia and later slayed in the 2018 IPL final with a match-winning century for Chennai Super Kings.

2. Robin Uthappa (India)

Robin Uthappa's on-and-off relationship with the Indian national unit was cleared up by his IPL success, putting him back in the spotlight. He represented multiple franchises, but his best was in 2014 with the Kolkata Knight Riders, where he won the Orange Cap and helped KKR win the title. It was this performance in the IPL that saw a brief return for him to the Indian team.

3. Chris Gayle (West Indies)

Before the 2011 IPL, this West Indies player lost his central contract and, in the auction, didn't find a buyer. And then Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) called him a replacement player, and the rest is history. He thrashed the league, culminating in the 175 off 66 balls in 2013, for the highest individual T20 score. His IPL resurgence also saw him returning to the West Indies squad, where he became the winning captain of the 2016 T20 World Cup.

4. Dinesh Karthik (India)

Dinesh Karthik's career has been marked by multiple comebacks, with each of them largely glamorous and IPL nursed. They achieved their greatest delight, owing to IPL 2022, with RCB, wherein he played the finisher role and forced his way back in to India's T20I squad for the T20 World Cup 2022.

Also Read: Shoaib Akhtar Raises His Concerns On PCB Missing The Champions Trophy Ceremony

5. Pat Cummins (Australia)

Pat Cummins had been tormented by injuries throughout the early stages of his career, forcing him onto the sidelines for years. In 2020, he was bought by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for ₹15.5 crore, and his performance in IPL assisted him in getting his mojo back. Later, he became Australia’s Test captain and led them to more than one ICC trophy.

6. Rahul Tewatia (India)

Before he hit five sixes in one over against the Punjab Kings in IPL 2020, Rahul Tewatia was an unknown name; he became an overnight sensation when his consistent performance for Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans surely made him one of the top Indian all-rounders in the IPL.

Shane Watson is demonstrating that class is permanent with his scorching performances in the International Masters League T20 (IMLT20). The Australian all-rounder of the past has been in sublime touch, scoring three hundreds in a mere four games, and he is the best performer of the tournament till date.

A Tournament to Remember

Watson, captain of Australia Masters, began the tournament with a spectacular century against West Indies Masters. Following a rare failure against Sri Lanka Masters, he came back in style with an unbeaten 110* against India Masters. Two days later, he carried on his dream run with another masterful innings against South Africa Masters.

The Old Canon is Still Blasting 💛🔥.
Shane watson in Master League

107(52) vs WI
110(52) vs Ind
122(61) vs SF#mastersleague pic.twitter.com/PNt4k6sER1

— Muthu Nanda (@ItsNanda02) March 7, 2025

Unstoppable Against South Africa Masters

ALSO SEE: Winning The IPL Trophy With RCB Will Be Perfect Farewell For Virat Kohli Says De Villiers

In Sunday's battle at Vadodara, Watson again asserted his strength with a massive hammering of an unbeaten 122 off 61 balls. The innings comprised nine boundaries and nine mighty sixes, driving Australia Masters to the massive total of 260/1. That was their second successive 250+ total and reflected their grip on the championship.

A Partnership to Remember

Against India Masters, Watson had already demonstrated his capacity to hold an innings together while going at will. In that game, he put on an unbroken 236-run stand with Ben Dunk, who blasted an explosive 132* off a mere 53 balls. Together, their heroics enabled Australia Masters to amass 269/1, setting the stage for their continued dominance in the league.

Legends Leading the Way

Watson's captaincy has been crucial to the success of Australia Masters, but he is not the only cricketing legend leading his team in the competition. Jacques Kallis is captain of South Africa Masters, while cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar is at the helm of India Masters. Tendulkar, in keeping with his image, has already scored a few eye-catching innings, entertaining the crowd through the tournament.

What's Next?

With Watson on a red-hot streak, Australia Masters has become one of the prime title challengers. Cricket fans will be waiting with bated breath to find out if he can maintain this phenomenal streak and guide his side to championship honors as the event unfolds.

One thing is for sure, Shane Watson is proving to the world that the fire in his stomach still burns hot, and he is still one of the most entertaining cricketers to watch.

Cricket fans witnessed a remarkable performance as Ben Dunk and Shane Watson delivered a batting masterclass, both scoring centuries and building a massive 236 partnership against the Indian Masters. Their incredible display powered their team to a commanding total, setting a challenging 270-run target.

Batting Domination at Its Finest

Right from the start, Dunk and Watson looked in complete control, playing with intent and aggression. They paced their innings perfectly, balancing caution with powerful stroke play.

TWIN HUNDREDS from Shane Watson and Ben Dunk against the INDIA MASTERS.pic.twitter.com/vC3FbeIBXR

— CricketGully (@thecricketgully) March 5, 2025

Ben Dunk, known for his explosive batting, showcased his ability to find the boundary with ease. His clean hitting and fearless approach put pressure on the bowlers from the outset.

𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐱𝟐! 🤯

Ben Dunk and Shane Watson put on a masterclass with 𝐭𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝟐𝟎𝟎+ 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝! 👏

📺 Catch it LIVE NOW ➡️ @JioHotstar, @Colors_Cineplex & @CCSuperhits! 📲#IMLT20 #TheBaapsOfCricket #IMLonJioHotstar #IMLonCineplex pic.twitter.com/gJFQ2h50hJ

— INTERNATIONAL MASTERS LEAGUE (@imlt20official) March 5, 2025

Shane Watson, bringing years of experience to the crease, played with composure and authority. His innings were a combination of classic cricketing shots and calculated aggression, ensuring his team maintained momentum throughout.

ALSO SEE: David Miller stuns with fastest Champions Trophy century in late fun

A Record-Breaking Partnership

Watson: 110* (52 Balls, 12 Fours, 7 Sixes)
Dunk: 132* (53 Balls, 12 Fours, 10 Sixes)

Ben Dunk and Shane Watson dazzled with centuries, leading to a 200+ partnership and setting a 270-run target against the Indian Masters. 🔥🏏 #ShaneWatson #IMLT20 #cricketchallenge pic.twitter.com/LY5sWG7bEv

— Syed Sami (@SamiSocial) March 5, 2025

Their 200-plus run stand was a display of precision and dominance. They rotated the strike efficiently, found the gaps with ease, and dispatched loose deliveries to the boundary. The Indian Masters bowlers had no answers as Dunk and Watson dictated the pace of the game.

By the time their partnership came to an end, their team had posted a massive total of 270, leaving the Indian Masters with a tough chase ahead.

In the second match of International Masters League T20 2025, Australia Masters opener batsman and captain Shane Watson scored a brilliant innings against Brian Lara's West Indies Masters. In the game, the toss was in favor of Brian Lara, who invited Australia to bat.

🚨 HISTORY BY SHANE WATSON 🚨

- Shane Watson smashed the first Hundred in IMLT20 History 💛 pic.twitter.com/yQhnF4LUST

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 24, 2025

ALSO SEE: Shoaib Akhtar and Wasim Akram slammed Pakistan's management, calling them "brainless and clueless" after their Champions Trophy loss to India
Following this, Shane Watson, who arrived to bat for the Kangaroo side in the first innings, ruined the West Indies bowlers and made a century while playing a stormy innings. Based on the century of Shane Watson, Australia, batting first, made 216 runs for 8 wickets in the required 20 overs and set a target of 217 runs for West Indies to win.

#Cricket – Like he never left the game. 🫡 Shane Watson hits the first century in the #IMLT20 against West Indies Masters!

Stream #InternationalMastersLeague live on #SPOTVNOW!
🍎📱: https://t.co/mpwNXW5VUd
🤖📱: https://t.co/9KyLDPy90X
🖥️: https://t.co/t9FrvQchV2 pic.twitter.com/q1F9XfXZ9t

— SPOTV SEA (@SPOTVSEA) February 24, 2025

Shane Watson made 107 runs for this match with the assistance of 9 sixes and 9 fours in 52 balls and his strike rate for this match was 205.77. Daniel Christian made 32 runs from the side of Australia and Ben Dunk made 15 runs in this match. Except for these, no other Australian batsman was able to do anything outstanding for West Indies. Jerome Taylor and Ravi Rampaul conceded 2-2 wickets each against West Indies team in this match. Dwayne Smith dismissed one wicket whereas Ashley Nurse dismissed 3 wickets in this match.
Interestingly, Shane Watson was dropped by West Indies Masters wicket-keeper Denesh Ramdin and Chris Gayle at first slip earlier in the innings when the Australian opener was only 5* at the time.

Before the match, West Indies skipper Brian Lara had opted to bat first after winning the toss. Shane Watson answered back with a sequence of boundaries as his firebrand strategy ran through Australia at 54-1 at the finish of the opening powerplay.

Racing to his fifty from only 28 balls, the 43-year-old Australian cricketer achieved from 50 to 100 in 20 deliveries to force a 48-ball ton. The great Australian all-rounder was eventually run out by West Indies spinner Ashley Nurse after scoring 107 runs in 52 balls. His inning also took the Australian Masters over 200 runs with almost two overs remaining in the innings.

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.