Category Archives: cricket

IND Vs PAK, Asia Cup 2025 Final: Tilak Varma Gets Mobbed By Fans In Hyderabad After Match-Winning Knock Of 69 Runs Against Pakistan; Video

Posted on by
Reply

Tilak Varma Receives Emotional Homecoming in Hyderabad After Asia Cup 2025 Heroics

Indian cricketer Tilak Varma was welcomed with a grand and emotional homecoming in Hyderabad following his sensational performance in the Asia Cup 2025 final against arch-rivals Pakistan. The young left-handed batter, who earned the ‘Man of the Match’ award for his heroic innings, was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of fans, family members, and local dignitaries at the airport.

Varma’s composed yet explosive knock of 69 runs off 53 deliveries played a decisive role in India’s five-wicket triumph over Pakistan. Chasing a challenging target in a high-pressure final, the 22-year-old displayed immense maturity, striking three boundaries and four massive sixes to anchor the innings after India suffered early setbacks.

His calm presence in the middle not only stabilized the innings but also shifted the momentum in India’s favor during the crucial middle overs. With this performance, Tilak Varma has not only solidified his place in India’s middle order but has also emerged as a rising star in international cricket.

His fearless stroke play under pressure and ability to build partnerships in tough conditions have started drawing comparisons with some of the game’s modern greats. As the nation celebrates India’s Asia Cup victory, Hyderabad proudly basks in the glory of one of its own shining on the biggest stage.

‘It Felt Like He Took the Strike’: Suryakumar Yadav Reacts to PM Modi’s Praise

India’s emphatic five-wicket win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final thrilled cricket fans across the nation and earned praise from the highest office in the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a celebratory social media post, lauded the Indian team with a clever remark:

“Operation Sindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same – India wins! Congrats to our cricketers.”

The reference to “Operation Sindoor,” a successful mission by Indian forces, symbolically compared the team’s clinical victory to a well-executed national operation. The tweet quickly went viral, capturing the nation’s mood and uniting cricket and patriotism in a single line.

Reacting to PM Modi’s tweet, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav said,

“It feels good when the country’s leader himself bats on the front foot; it felt like he took the strike and scored runs. It was great to see, and when the sir is standing in front, then definitely the players will play freely.”

He added, “The most important thing is that the whole country is celebrating. When we go back to India, it will feel good, and we will get more inspiration and motivation to do well.”

India’s Triumphant Moment Unites a Nation

The final match saw India chase down Pakistan’s target with composure and strength, sealing the victory with five wickets in hand. The atmosphere in the stadium and across the country was electric.

This thrilling win was a reminder that cricket continues to be one of the strongest unifiers in India, and moments like these become an integral part of the country’s collective memory.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/ind-vs-pak-asia-cup-2025-final-tilak-varma-gets-mobbed-by-fans-in-hyderabad-after-match-winning-knock-of-69-runs-against-pakistan-video

Which team has won most Asia Cup titles?

Posted on by
Reply

**Teams with the Most Titles in Asia Cup History**
*By Parth Dhall | Sep 29, 2025, 05:29 PM*

**What’s the story?**

India were crowned champions of the 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup after a thrilling final victory over Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, Team India successfully chased down a target of 147 runs, finishing the tournament unbeaten and securing their ninth Asia Cup title across both ODI and T20 formats.

Here’s a look at the teams with the most Asia Cup titles in history.

—

### India: Leading the Pack with Nine Titles

India tops the list with a record nine Asia Cup titles, the most by any team in the tournament’s history. They won the inaugural T20 Asia Cup in 2016 under the captaincy of MS Dhoni. In addition to their T20 success, India has clinched the 50-over Asia Cup title seven times, with their most recent ODI triumph coming in 2023.

India’s previous ODI Asia Cup victories occurred in 1984, 1988, 1991, 1995, 2010, and 2018.

—

### An Unbeaten Run in T20 Asia Cups

Remarkably, India has maintained an unbeaten streak in both of their T20 Asia Cup title-winning campaigns — in 2016 and again in 2025. Furthermore, India has won four of the last five Asia Cups (2025, 2023, 2018, and 2016). The only recent exception was in 2022 when India failed to reach the final.

—

### Sri Lanka and Pakistan: Other Champions of the Asia Cup

Following India, Sri Lanka stands second with six Asia Cup titles. They lifted the trophy in 1986, 1997, 2004, 2008, 2014, and 2022. Notably, Sri Lanka has bested both India and Pakistan three times each in Asia Cup finals, showcasing their dominance in the tournament.

Pakistan is the only other team to have won the Asia Cup, claiming the title twice. Their victories came in 2000 and 2014, both times defeating Sri Lanka in the final.

—

With India leading the charts and strong performances from Sri Lanka and Pakistan, the Asia Cup continues to be a fiercely contested tournament highlighting the best in Asian cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/most-titles-in-asia-cup-history/story

IND Vs PAK, Asia Cup 2025 Final: ‘He Is A Run Machine,’ Says Wasim Akram As He Slams Haris Rauf’s Bowling Performance After Pakistan’s Humiliating Loss

Posted on by
Reply

In the aftermath of Pakistan’s defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 final, legendary former pacer Wasim Akram didn’t mince words as he assessed Pakistan’s bowling performance, particularly that of Haris Rauf, who endured a nightmare spell in Dubai.

Speaking on live broadcast, Akram described Rauf as a “run machine, especially against India,” a sharp remark that captured the disappointment surrounding the pacer’s performance. India defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets, chasing down the target of 147 with two balls to spare, thanks to composed batting performances by Tilak Varma (69) and Shivam Dube (33).

Much of the blame for Pakistan’s loss fell on their bowling attack, and Rauf’s figures stood out for all the wrong reasons. The right-arm pacer conceded 50 runs in just 3.4 overs, leaking boundaries at crucial stages of the match and failing to provide the breakthroughs his team desperately needed. His wayward lengths and inability to adapt under pressure allowed Indian batters to score freely, turning the tide firmly in India’s favour.

Wasim Akram, Pakistan’s most respected fast bowling voice, offered a scathing analysis during the post-match show. “He is a run machine, especially against India,” Akram said. The comment, laced with frustration, highlighted the growing concern around Rauf’s performances in big matches, particularly against India, where he has repeatedly failed to deliver.

Whether this remark serves as a wake-up call for Rauf or adds further pressure on him ahead of future India-Pakistan clashes remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Wasim Akram’s verdict has reignited the debate on how Pakistan’s pace battery handles the heat when facing their fiercest rivals.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/ind-vs-pak-asia-cup-2025-final-he-is-a-run-machine-says-wasim-akram-as-he-slams-haris-raufs-bowling-performance-after-pakistans-humiliating-loss

IND Vs PAK, Asia Cup 2025 Final: Haris Rauf Sparks Controversy Once Again With Plane-Crashing Gesture After Taking Abhishek Sharma’s Catch; Video

Posted on by
Reply

The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan in Dubai was always expected to be high on intensity, and it delivered on that promise both in action and emotion.

One of the most talked-about moments from the match came when Haris Rauf, Pakistan’s fiery pacer, took a sharp catch to dismiss India’s rising star Abhishek Sharma. He then followed it with a now-controversial plane-crashing gesture that grabbed headlines.

The dismissal occurred during a crucial phase of India’s chase. Abhishek Sharma looked to clear the infield but mistimed his shot. Positioned in the mid-on region, Rauf charged in and held on to a low, pressure catch.

As teammates rushed in to celebrate, Rauf made a striking hand gesture, mimicking a crashing airplane—an act he had previously done in the Super 4 stage of the tournament.

This wasn’t the first time Rauf has been involved in such theatrics. His original use of the gesture earlier in the tournament drew mixed reactions, but the Asia Cup final stage amplified its visibility and controversy.

As the Asia Cup 2025 final enters the books, moments like Rauf’s celebration will remain part of the narrative—a reminder that in matches like these, emotions often fly just as high as the stakes.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/ind-vs-pak-asia-cup-2025-final-haris-rauf-sparks-controversy-once-again-with-plane-crashing-gesture-after-taking-abhishek-sharmas-catch-video

Amit Mishra Narrates How ‘Captain Cool’ MS Dhoni Lost His Cool After Champions Trophy 2013 Final Win

Posted on by
Reply

New Delhi: Experienced leg-spinner Amit Mishra revealed some memorable moments from the aftermath of India’s historic victory at the 2013 Champions Trophy in Birmingham. The final was a nail-biting contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last ball.

On June 23, 2013, under the leadership of ‘Captain Cool’ MS Dhoni, India created cricketing history by defeating the hosts England to lift the Champions Trophy. India successfully defended a modest target of 130 runs, thanks to a spirited bowling performance that sealed a thrilling five-run victory.

Mishra shared insights into the celebrations that followed the win. “After winning the Champions Trophy, nobody went to their rooms. Everyone stayed in the dressing room for three to four hours, just soaking in the moment. Everyone was saying let’s celebrate, but no one wanted to leave,” he told ANI.

Known for his calm demeanor, Dhoni also showed a rare glimpse of unbridled joy. “Dhoni is a very cool captain, but on that night, he was clearly very happy and was truly enjoying the moment,” Mishra added.

The final itself was a rollercoaster. India’s innings was anchored early on by Virat Kohli (43) and Shikhar Dhawan (31), putting India in a strong position. However, an unexpected middle-order collapse saw the team slump to 66/5. Ravindra Jadeja then played a crucial unbeaten knock of 33 runs, helping India reach 129/7.

In response, Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin bowled with great discipline, taking two wickets each and maintaining tight control over the runs. Their efforts thwarted England’s chase and secured India’s victory by five runs.

The celebrations that unfolded after the win remain etched in the memory of Indian cricket fans. From warm embraces among teammates to Virat Kohli’s iconic Gangnam Style dance and the enthusiastic cheers of the fans, the night in Birmingham still resonates as a cherished moment in Indian cricket history.

(Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/amit-mishra-narrates-how-captain-cool-ms-dhoni-lost-his-cool-after-champions-trophy-2013-final-win

Asia Cup 2025: Why India skipped pre-final training

Posted on by
Reply

**Asia Cup 2025: Why Team India Skipped Pre-Final Training**

*By Parth Dhall | September 27, 2025 | 3:37 PM*

Ahead of the much-anticipated 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup final against Pakistan, Team India has decided to skip their scheduled training session on Saturday. This decision follows India’s thrilling victory over Sri Lanka in their last Super 4 clash, which was decided in a Super Over at the Dubai International Stadium.

**Prioritizing Rest and Recovery**

India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, explained that the team is prioritizing rest and recovery over physical preparation for the final. Speaking at the post-match conference, Morkel said the back-to-back matches have led the team’s medical and coaching staff to focus on recovery protocols.

“There will be individual pool sessions for the guys organized, followed by some massages to help them get mentally ready for the big battle on Sunday. It’s a quick turnaround, and playing smart will be key. There will certainly be no training,” Morkel added.

**Player Fitness Updates**

During the recent game against Sri Lanka, all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma were absent for most of India’s bowling innings due to cramps. Morkel provided an update on their fitness ahead of the final.

“Hardik’s condition will be assessed tonight and tomorrow morning before we make a call. Abhishek is fine. Both of them were just struggling with cramps,” he confirmed.

**Match Preview: India Eye Third Win Over Pakistan**

The 2025 T20 Asia Cup final will be the third encounter between India and Pakistan in this edition of the tournament. India has remained unbeaten throughout so far, and their dramatic victory over Sri Lanka has surely boosted the team’s momentum and confidence ahead of this crucial clash.

Pakistan’s only two defeats in six games have both come against India. Against this intense rivalry and amid ongoing political tensions, the two cricketing giants will lock horns once again in Dubai on September 28.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Asia Cup final approaches!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/asia-cup-team-india-to-skip-training-session-before-final/story

Ashwin highlights flaws in Harshit Rana’s spell against SL

Posted on by
Reply

**‘Amateurish’: Ashwin Highlights Flaws in Harshit Rana’s Spell Against Sri Lanka**

*By Parth Dhall | Sep 27, 2025, 03:20 PM*

Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has pointed out significant flaws in pacer Harshit Rana’s bowling performance during India’s 2025 Asia Cup Super 4 clash against Sri Lanka. The high-stakes match was held at the Dubai International Stadium on Friday.

### Harshit Rana’s Performance Under the Spotlight

This was only Harshit Rana’s second match in the tournament, and he struggled to make a strong impact. The Delhi pacer conceded a costly 54 runs in his four overs, managing to take just one wicket. Despite his expensive spell, India clinched the win in a thrilling Super Over finish.

Harshit found it challenging to adjust to Dubai’s conditions. As Ashwin noted in his post-match analysis, Rana was unable to settle into his rhythm early on and leaked runs heavily during his initial three overs. However, he did manage to bounce back somewhat in the final over by dismissing Sri Lankan batsman Pathum Nissanka, who had been in brilliant form scoring 107 runs off just 58 balls.

### Ashwin’s Candid Critique

Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat,’ Ashwin was forthright in his assessment of Harshit Rana’s display. “I want to speak about Harshit Rana. Playing just a few matches, then sitting out others, can really affect confidence and rhythm,” he explained.

Ashwin didn’t hold back, describing some of Harshit’s mistakes as “really amateurish.” He urged the young pacer to take this experience as a learning opportunity going forward.

### Predictability in Bowling Style

A specific concern raised by Ashwin was Harshit’s bowling pattern. The seasoned spinner criticized the predictability in his deliveries: “One fast, one slow, one fast, one slow. That’s really amateurish cricket.”

This repetitive approach made it easier for batsmen to anticipate and capitalize on his bowling.

### Context and Player Background

Harshit Rana was included in the playing XI in place of Shivam Dube for the Sri Lanka game. Prior to this match, Harshit had featured only in the Oman game, which was also a dead rubber for Team India.

To date, Harshit has represented India in two Test matches, five One Day Internationals (ODIs), and three T20 Internationals (T20Is). While he has shown potential, he is yet to cement his place or consistently deliver impact performances across formats.

Overall, Harshit has picked up 48 T20, 32 List A, and 50 First-Class wickets, indicating a promising domestic record. However, the transition to top-level international cricket remains a work in progress.

—

*India now looks ahead to upcoming challenges with Harshit Rana aiming to refine his skills and address the concerns raised by senior players like Ashwin.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/asia-cup-ashwin-highlights-harshit-rana-s-shortcomings/story

Analysis: Can Australia defend their Women’s World Cup title?

Posted on by
Reply

**Next Article Analysis: Can Australia Defend Their Women’s World Cup Title?**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 27, 2025, 01:11 PM*

—

The Australian women’s cricket team, led by veteran keeper-batter Alyssa Healy, is all set to defend their title at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, kicking off on September 30. With a strong squad and the return of key players like spinner Sophie Molineux from injury, Australia looks poised to maintain its dominance on the global stage.

### Team Composition

Australia’s 15-member squad for the 2025 Women’s World Cup includes:

– Alyssa Healy (captain)
– Darcie Brown
– Ash Gardner
– Kim Garth
– Heather Graham
– Alana King
– Phoebe Litchfield
– Tahlia McGrath
– Sophie Molineux
– Beth Mooney
– Ellyse Perry
– Megan Schutt
– Annabel Sutherland
– Georgia Voll
– Georgia Wareham

Coached by Shelley Nitschke, Australia currently holds the top spot in the ICC WODI rankings. Notably, 10 players from this squad were part of the team that clinched Australia’s seventh World Cup title in New Zealand in 2022.

### Batting Strengths

Batting remains a standout strength for Australia. Experienced players like Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, and Ashleigh Gardner have been in excellent touch, each averaging over 43 in WODIs this year. Young talents such as Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll have also been successfully integrated, adding depth and freshness to the lineup.

The “Women in Yellow” have displayed great form in 2025, winning five out of six WODI matches so far — including a crucial 2-1 series victory over co-hosts India.

### All-Rounders and Fielding Prowess

Australia boasts impressive depth in all-rounders, providing the team with versatility and flexibility. During the recent India series, captain Healy utilized eight different bowlers, highlighting the team’s well-rounded bowling options.

Players like Perry, Gardner, and Tahlia McGrath stand out as some of the best multi-dimensional cricketers in the women’s game today. Furthermore, Australia’s fielding is exceptional, with dependable performers like Megan Schutt and Perry ranking among the safest catchers.

### Performing Under Pressure

Australia’s ability to deliver under pressure contributes significantly to their continued success. The team has amassed seven WODI World Cup titles and six WT20 World Cup trophies, showcasing their dominance in international women’s cricket.

With 10 players from the victorious 2022 campaign, the squad benefits from invaluable experience in high-stakes encounters. It’s important to note that this World Cup could be the last for several stalwarts, including Healy, Mooney, Perry, and Megan Schutt, adding emotional weight to their campaign.

### Fitness Concerns in Challenging Conditions

Fitness remains a key concern, especially given the extreme hot and humid conditions expected in India and Sri Lanka, co-hosts of the tournament. Sophie Molineux is making a comeback after a lengthy injury layoff, and Healy is also returning from recent time off.

Managing player workload will be critical to maintaining peak performance throughout the tournament. Healy’s form as an opener is under scrutiny; since January 2024, she has scored 490 WODI runs at an average of 32.66, indicating room for improvement.

—

**Conclusion**

Australia enters the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 as favorites, backed by an experienced, talented squad and strong recent performances. While fitness and adapting to conditions will pose challenges, their depth in batting, all-round abilities, and mental toughness position them well to defend their crown and continue their legacy as a powerhouse in women’s cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/icc-women-s-odi-world-cup-analysis-of-australia/story

Analysis: Can Australia defend their Women’s World Cup title?

Posted on by
Reply

**Next Article Analysis: Can Australia defend their Women’s World Cup title?**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 27, 2025 01:11 pm*

—

**What’s the story?**

The Australian women’s cricket team, led by veteran keeper-batter Alyssa Healy, is determined to defend its title at the upcoming ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, starting September 30. The squad also sees the return of spinner Sophie Molineux from injury, strengthening their already formidable bowling attack.

Out of the 15-member squad, 10 players were part of the team that secured Australia’s seventh World Cup title in New Zealand in 2022. Here, we analyze the strengths and potential challenges facing this Australian side.

—

**Team Composition**

Australia’s squad for the Women’s World Cup 2025 includes:
Alyssa Healy (c), Darcie Brown, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Heather Graham, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, and Georgia Wareham.

Coached by Shelley Nitschke, Australia currently holds the top spot in the ICC WODI rankings, reflecting their dominance in women’s cricket.

—

**Team Analysis**

**Batting: Australia’s Strength**

Batting remains one of Australia’s biggest assets. Veteran players such as Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, and Ashleigh Gardner have all averaged over 43 with the bat in WODIs this year. Their experience, combined with the promising talents of youngsters like Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll, gives the team a solid and balanced batting lineup.

The “Women in Yellow” have been in excellent form, winning five of their six WODIs in 2025, including a recent 2-1 series victory over co-hosts India.

—

**All-rounders and Fielding**

Australia boasts incredible depth in all-rounders, enhancing their flexibility and balance. During the recent India series, Healy utilized eight different bowlers, showcasing the team’s versatile bowling attack.

Players like Perry, Gardner, and Tahlia McGrath stand out as world-class three-dimensional cricketers. The batting order is well-structured, with clear roles and responsibilities for each player.

Additionally, Australia’s fielding is a major strength, with stars like Megan Schutt and Perry regarded among the safest catchers in international cricket.

—

**Pressure Performance**

Australia’s proven ability to perform under pressure has been a cornerstone of their success. With seven WODI World Cup titles and six WT20 World Cups, the team knows how to thrive on big stages.

Having 10 players from their 2022 championship-winning squad provides valuable experience, especially for high-pressure matches in the upcoming tournament.

It’s noteworthy that this could be the last World Cup campaign for several senior players such as Healy, Mooney, Perry, and Schutt, adding extra motivation to finish on a high.

—

**Fitness Concerns and Conditions**

Fitness remains an area of concern. Spinner Sophie Molineux is returning from a long injury layoff, while Healy herself has recently made a comeback.

The hot and humid conditions expected in India and Sri Lanka will pose further challenges. Effective workload management will be crucial for the team’s success.

Healy’s current form as an opener also poses questions. Since January 2024, she has scored 490 runs in WODIs at an average of 32.66, which is a slight dip compared to her usual standards.

—

**Conclusion**

Australia enters the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 as clear favorites, boasting a strong and experienced squad with the perfect blend of seasoned veterans and exciting young talent.

While fitness and adapting to demanding conditions remain challenges, their depth, tactical flexibility, and championship pedigree make them a formidable contender to defend their crown.

With high expectations on their shoulders, the Women in Yellow will be keen to reaffirm their dominance on the world stage once again.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/icc-women-s-odi-world-cup-analysis-of-australia/story

Here’s why Arshdeep Singh bowled Super Over vs Sri Lanka

Posted on by
Reply

**Here’s Why Arshdeep Singh Bowled the Super Over vs Sri Lanka**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 27, 2025 | 10:13 AM*

India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav has revealed the reason behind his decision to entrust Arshdeep Singh with bowling the Super Over in their final Asia Cup Super Four match against Sri Lanka. The move proved crucial as Arshdeep delivered an exceptional performance, restricting Sri Lanka to just two runs and taking two important wickets. This victory ensured India’s unbeaten streak remained intact, helping them progress to the tournament final.

### Match Analysis: A High-Scoring Thriller

Although the match was essentially a dead rubber, fans were treated to a high-scoring thriller. Both teams surpassed the 200-run mark, showcasing strong batting performances. Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka scored a brilliant century, but India’s middle order—particularly Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma—played vital innings to keep India in the hunt.

“It felt like a final and the boys showed a lot of character after the first half in the second innings,” Suryakumar Yadav remarked during the post-match presentation.

### Strategic Decision: Why Arshdeep?

Suryakumar explained his confidence in Arshdeep Singh by highlighting the bowler’s consistency over the years. “Arshdeep has delivered for us over the last 2-3 years. I told him to back his own plans and try to execute,” said Yadav.

He added, “He has been in that situation many times before and has performed really well for India as well as his IPL side.”

### Match Reflection from Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka praised Nissanka’s outstanding century and remained positive despite his team’s lackluster performance in the Super Four stage. “It was unbelievable batting from Nissanka. They have some extremely good bowlers, and it was splendid to see him bat with such an attacking approach,” Asalanka said.

He also acknowledged some positives despite the results: “We have been playing good cricket, but unfortunately, we could not win in the last two games.”

—

India’s tactical acumen and composure under pressure, epitomized by Arshdeep Singh’s Super Over heroics, were key factors in their continued dominance in the Asia Cup this year.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/asia-cup-suryakumar-reveals-why-he-chose-arshdeep-for-super-over/story