August 2025 - Page 2 of 2

Matthew Forde will miss Pakistan’s ODIs due to a dislocated shoulder.

Posted on August 8, 2025 by [email protected]

Matthew Forde, a seamer for the West Indies, will not be playing in the three-match ODI series against Pakistan starting on Friday in Tarouba. He got hurt during a training session on Wednesday. When he tried to catch the ball and dislocated his shoulder.

Matthew Forde has been replaced in the squad by Johann Layne. A seam-bowling all-rounder from the West Indies academy.

Ian Bishop, who is part of the coaching staff, described Layne as “rangy, tall, and intelligent.” He was one of the seamen who made a good impression on Bishop.

The West Indies’ ODI team includes Jediah Blades, Shamar Joseph, Romario Shepherd, and Jayden Seales as their fast bowlers.

Gudakesh Motie is their main wrist spinner. Alzarri Joseph has been rested for this series. The team also loses out on Forde’s batting ability. As he broke the ODI record for the fastest fifty, scoring. It in just 16 balls against Ireland in May.

The West Indies is aiming to win their fourth consecutive ODI series. After losing the T20I series to Pakistan 2-1 in Lauderhill.

The tour is now moving to Trinidad and Tobago. They are playing in just their fifth ODI series. Since the beginning of 2023 and have already beaten Bangladesh 3-0 and England twice, 2-1 each time.

In recent years, the West Indies has had a tough time with the 50-over format, losing both ICC ODI tournaments.

Their current ranking is tenth, making qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup uncertain. To get automatic qualification, they need to be in the top nine, just one spot above where they are now. They would greatly benefit from a victory versus Pakistan. Who are ranked six spots higher.

David Wiese Named Captain of Saint Lucia Kings for CPL 2025 🏏🏆

Posted on August 7, 2025 by [email protected]

In a significant move ahead of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025 season, David Wiese has been officially appointed as the captain of the Saint Lucia Kings. The franchise announced this leadership change earlier today, generating excitement among fans and pundits alike. Wiese, the seasoned all-rounder from Namibia, is set to bring his vast T20 experience and tactical acumen to the forefront as the team gears up for another competitive season.

🔹 A Proven T20 Veteran

Wiese is no stranger to high-pressure situations in franchise cricket. With over a decade of T20 experience spanning leagues such as the IPL, PSL, BBL, and international appearances for both South Africa and Namibia, the 39-year-old has built a reputation for being a reliable match-winner. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball, coupled with his on-field leadership skills, makes him a natural fit for the captaincy role.

In CPL seasons past, Wiese has delivered consistent performances, especially with his death bowling and powerful late-order hitting. His familiarity with Caribbean pitches and understanding of the league’s demands will be invaluable to the Kings’ campaign in 2025.

🔹 Leadership Goals and Team Outlook

Upon accepting the role, Wiese expressed his excitement and commitment to leading the team:

“It’s a huge honour to captain a team with such passionate fans and talented players. I look forward to working with the coaching staff and teammates to build a winning culture. We’re aiming for the title this year.”

The Saint Lucia Kings have come close in previous editions but are yet to secure their maiden CPL title. With Wiese at the helm, the franchise is aiming to blend experience with emerging talent, creating a balanced and aggressive side that can go all the way.

🔹 Support from Management

The team management, including head coach Andy Flower, has expressed full confidence in Wiese’s appointment. In a statement, Flower noted:

“David brings a calm, composed approach, combined with fierce competitiveness. His leadership in global T20 leagues has been exceptional. We believe he can take this group to the next level.”

🔹 Squad Shaping Up

The 2025 squad of Saint Lucia Kings is already shaping up to be a formidable unit, with key retentions and potential new signings expected to strengthen the side further. Wiese will play a central role in mentoring young Caribbean talents while also leading from the front during crunch moments.

🔹 Fan Expectations Rising

The appointment of Wiese has already created a buzz among the Saint Lucia Kings fanbase. Supporters are hopeful that his leadership will finally help the team lift the coveted CPL trophy. Social media is abuzz with messages of support and excitement as the countdown to CPL 2025 begins.

With David Wiese now leading the charge, Saint Lucia Kings are poised for an exciting season ahead. All eyes will be on the new skipper as he attempts to guide the team to CPL glory.

Shubman Gill Breaks Sunil Gavaskar’s Record with 754 Runs as Captain in Test Series

Posted on August 5, 2025 by [email protected]

In a remarkable show of skill, consistency, and leadership. Shubman Gill has etched his name into Indian cricket history by scoring 754 runs in a single Test series. Surpassing the long-standing record of 732 runs set by the legendary Sunil Gavaskar. This achievement not only highlights Gill’s prowess with the bat. But also marks a significant milestone as he now holds the record for the most runs by an Indian in a Test series as captain.

Gill, who was appointed as captain for the series following a phase of transition in Indian cricket, embraced the responsibility with remarkable maturity. His elegant strokeplay, tactical acumen, and relentless hunger for runs were on display throughout the series. From gritty knocks on difficult pitches to fluent centuries in pressure situations. Gill’s batting performance was a masterclass in adapting to conditions and taking on the opposition.

The record-breaking feat came during India’s recent Test series. Which saw them face a formidable opponent in a tightly contested battle. Gill opened the innings in each match and demonstrated his trademark composure and aggression. His standout innings included a scintillating double century in the second Test and back-to-back centuries in the fourth and fifth Tests. Performances that were pivotal in turning the tide of the series in India’s favor.

What makes this achievement even more special is the company Gill now shares in the record books. Sunil Gavaskar’s record of 732 runs in the 1971 series against the West Indies had stood tall for over five decades. Gavaskar’s dominance during that era laid the foundation for Indian batting legacy. Now, Gill has carried that baton forward in the modern era.

Cricket experts and fans alike have lauded Gill’s incredible feat. Former cricketers praised his technical finesse, temperament, and ability to lead from the front. His calm demeanor under pressure and ability to rotate strike while accelerating. When needed were the hallmarks of his batting throughout the series.

Off the field, Gill’s leadership has also drawn applause. He showed great tactical awareness, backed his bowlers wisely, and made bold decisions that often paid off. His captaincy was defined by a calm confidence and a willingness to take calculated risks — traits that endeared him to teammates and supporters.

With this historic performance, Shubman Gill has not only set a new benchmark for Indian captains in Test cricket. But has also solidified his place among the brightest stars in world cricket today. At just 26, Gill’s hunger for excellence, adaptability across formats, and mental fortitude suggest that this is just the beginning of a glittering career.

As Indian cricket continues to evolve, Gill’s emergence as a dependable leader and a world-class batter bodes well for the team’s future particularly in the longest and most challenging format of the game.

Suryakumar Begins NCA Rehab After Surgery, Eyes Asia Cup Return

Posted on August 4, 2025 by [email protected]

India’s dynamic T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has officially checked into the National Cricket Academy’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. To commence a structured rehabilitation programme after undergoing successful sports hernia surgery in Munich. The objective: to return to full fitness in time to lead India in the Asia Cup 2025.

🩺 Suryakumar Surgery & Recovery Timeline

On June 26, 2025, the 34-year-old batter underwent surgery in Munich. Germany, to address a sports hernia in his lower right abdomen—his third operation in as many years following an ankle procedure in 2023 and a prior hernia in early 2024. Post-operation, Suryakumar expressed optimism, posting on social media:

“Underwent surgery for a sports hernia in the lower right abdomen. Grateful to share that after a smooth surgery, I’m already on the road to recovery. Can’t wait to be back.”

🔄 Rehab at NCA & Asia Cup Ambitions

Arriving at the Bengaluru CoE in early August 2025, Suryakumar is now undergoing comprehensive prep work. Including physiotherapy, strength conditioning, and fitness testing. All part of a tailored plan to ensure peak readiness for the Asia Cup. Scheduled in the UAE from September 9 to 28.

Due to his ongoing rehabilitation, selectors excluded him from the West Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy. Which begins in late August under Shardul Thakur’s leadership. Officials confirm this decision was coordinated after Suryakumar communicated his need for focused recovery.

🌟 Career Momentum & Form

Suryakumar’s rehabilitation follows a standout campaign in IPL 2025, where as captain of Mumbai Indians, he amassed 717 runs in 16 innings, averaging over 65 with a strike rate exceeding 167—earning the Most Valuable Player award and setting a new benchmark for MI’s single-season run tally.

Since assuming India’s T20I captaincy after the 2024 World Cup. He has steered a potent lineup and redefined India’s limited-overs strategy, combining creativity with aggressive leadership.

✅ Fitness Outlook & Team Strategy

Team insiders confirm that BCCI and CoE medical staff are optimistic about his recovery trajectory, anticipating full match fitness well ahead of Asia Cup kick off. The decision to limit his exposure in domestic cricket is calculated to ensure he leads from the front in the continental tournament.

Fellow India player Shreyas Iyer also visited CoE last week for routine fitness evaluations. But remains available for West Zone in the Duleep Trophy unless drafted late into the Asia Cup squad.

📊 What It Means for India’s Asia Cup Campaign

Should Suryakumar successfully complete his rehab, his return as captain would inject confidence and firepower into India’s T20 setup. Given his reputation for completing matches under duress and changing India’s batting philosophy. His involvement could be crucial to the country’s hopes of winning the crown in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

📅 Key Dates at a Glance

Milestone	Date
Hernia surgery in Munich	June 26, 2025
Check in at NCA CoE (Bengaluru)	Early August 2025
Duleep Trophy (West Zone start)	Late August 2025
Asia Cup 2025 (UAE)	September 9–28, 2025

India’s management and fans alike will keenly monitor Suryakumar’s rehab progress over the coming weeks. If fit, his return may well be the turning point in India’s strategy in UAE. His final sprint to Asia Cup glory.

🚨 Shardul Thakur to Lead West Zone in 2025 Duleep Trophy 🏏

Posted on August 1, 2025 by [email protected]

In a new step for developing leadership. Experienced fast bowler Shardul Thakur has been named captain of the West Zone team for the 2025 Duleep Trophy, Which starts on August 28.

This decision was made by the zonal selectors on Thursday. It sets the stage for a tough and exciting tournament that kicks off the 2025–26 domestic season in India.

Fans often call Thakur “Lord Shardul” because he performs well in tough situations. He has played in all formats for India and his leadership will bring a mix of calm and energy to the West Zone squad.

West Zone has a mix of young talent and experienced players.

Some key names in the squad are:

Yashasvi Jaiswal – The left-handed batter is known for his exciting style and is making a name for himself.
Shreyas Iyer – He’s back after an injury and wants to prove himself for a place in the national team.
Sarfaraz Khan – A top run-scorer in domestic cricket, he adds strength in the middle order.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shams Mulani, and Tushar Deshpande also make up a solid group.

Notably, older players like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara were left out.

This might be a sign that the team is focusing more on younger players. As both have had trouble staying in the national setup. Shardul Thakur’s captaincy is real and meaningful.

He is known for his hard work and fight on the field. His strong performances in Tests. Especially in Australia and England, have made him a trusted player. In domestic cricket, his bold approach and smart thinking have worked well.

His leadership will help players like Ashwin Kotian, Dharmendra Jadeja, and Shaunak Nagwaswala as they try to move up in the ranks. The Duleep Trophy is now more than just a local competition.

It’s a key event for players aiming to play red-ball cricket for India. Strong showings here often lead to selection in India A or even the senior team. The zonal format, which returned last season. Gives players a chance to play high-level cricket and represent their regions.

West Zone, the most successful team in Duleep Trophy. History with 19 titles, Aims to add another to their list under Thakur’s leadership.

With the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy coming next. The Duleep Trophy is the first opportunity for players to get started and build momentum.

Winning the Duleep Trophy would be a big boost for Thakur and his team. It would show the strength of West Zone cricket.

Month: August 2025