India and England are set to clash in a thrilling three-match ODI series starting February 6, 2025. The series serves as a vital platform for both teams to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. India, with the return of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, aims to recover from a tough defeat against Sri Lanka, while England, led by Jos Buttler, looks to bounce back after a disappointing 2023 ODI World Cup. The matches will be held in India, with the exact venues to be confirmed. Fans can watch the live action on Star Sports, Sports18, and Disney+ Hotstar.
India secured their second consecutive ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup title with a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the final. Gongadi Trisha was the standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 and taking 3 wickets for 15 runs, leading her team to victory. South Africa, who were restricted to just 82 runs, struggled throughout their innings, while India chased down the target with ease in just 12.1 overs, sealing the win with 8 wickets to spare.
At the 2024 BCCI Annual Awards, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar was honored with the Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his extraordinary career. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah was named Best Men’s International Cricketer for his exceptional performances in 2023-24, including his pivotal role in India’s victories over England and Bangladesh. Smriti Mandhana took home the Best Women’s International Cricketer award after amassing 747 runs in 2024, while Ravichandran Ashwin received a special award for his outstanding contributions to Indian cricket. The ceremony also celebrated emerging talents like Sarfaraz Khan and Asha Sobhana, as well as domestic achievements from Mumbai, which won multiple titles, including the Ranji Trophy.
Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy with Delhi was marred by an early dismissal for just 6 runs in the first innings, leaving fans heartbroken. Despite a promising straight drive for a boundary earlier, Kohli was bowled out by Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan, who deceived him with a well-executed delivery. The crowd, who had gathered in huge numbers to witness his return, were visibly disappointed as many left the stadium immediately after his dismissal. Fans are now hopeful that Kohli will bounce back in the second innings and deliver the performance they eagerly anticipated.
D Gukesh's victory over German Grandmaster Vincent Keymer at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament not only secured him the India No. 1 spot in the live FIDE ratings but also highlighted the crucial role Keymer played in his preparation for the World Chess Championship. As one of Gukesh’s seconds during the championship, Keymer helped fine-tune opening strategies and manage time efficiently during high-pressure moments. Their close partnership, forged through years of collaboration, has been key to Gukesh’s recent success, which culminated in his historic World Championship win. Despite the tough competition, Gukesh’s blend of talent and strategic guidance from teammates like Keymer is shaping him into one of the chess world’s brightest stars.