The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, one of the most eagerly awaited cricketing events, is set to commence on February 19, marking the return of the prestigious tournament after an eight-year gap. Co-hosted by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the competition promises high-octane? action as the world’s top eight teams battle for the? coveted title.

While most matches will be played across venues in Pakistan and the UAE, India will play all its matches in Dubai due to ongoing geopolitical considerations. The Indian team will begin its campaign with a highly anticipated clash against Bangladesh on February 20, setting the tone for an electrifying group stage. Given the contrasting playing conditions in both host nations – spin-friendly surfaces in Dubai and fast-bowler-friendly tracks in Pakistan – teams will need to strike the right balance in their squad compositions to adapt to varying challenges.

The prestige and competitive nature of the Champions Trophy

Unlike the longer ICC Cricket World Cup, the Champions Trophy is a shorter, more intense tournament, featuring only the t??op eight cricketing nations, which ensures that every match carries significant stakes. The compact format means teams c??annot afford slow starts or errors, as every game is crucial to progressing beyond the group stage.

For teams like South Africa, who are yet to win a major ICC trophy, this tournament presents a golden opportunity to end their long-standing drought. Meanwhile, traditional powerhouses like India, Australia and England will be eager to reinforce their dominance on the global stage and ad??d another ICC title to their illustrious histories. With only the best teams competing, the event guarantees thrilling contests, high-pressure chases, and standout individual performances, making it one of the most anticipated tournaments in recent years.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: 3 playe??rs who can replace Marcus Stoinis in Austral??ia’s squad

David Warner picks the winner of Champions Trophy 2025

Heading into the tournament, Australia have been dealt a series of significant injury setbacks, raising concerns about their squad depth. Their captain Pat Cummins is still recovering from an ankle injury, which he sustained during the BGT, while Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out due to a hip issue. Further compounding their woes, Mitchell Marsh has been sidelined with a lower back injury, and Marcus Stoinis announced his retirement just before the tournament, leaving the team without four key members from their 2023 ODI World Cup-winning squa?d.

Despite these setbacks, former Australian opener David Warner remains confident in?? the team’s ability ?to perform, emphasizing that Australia have always thrived in major tournaments.

“Australia are very good in the World Cups and Champions Trophies and in tournament play. So, the Australian team knows how to win. They know how to succeed. It doesn’t matter what players they play. The guys are all built with playing under pressure. So, I think, whoever replaces those guys would do very well and the team in general would do great as well,” Warner was quoted as saying by the India Today.

With Cummins�?availability still in doubt, the Australian team management faces a tough decision in selecting a new captain for the tournament. Steve Smith and Travis Head could be considered for the leadership role, given their experience and recent form. Australia, placed in Group B alongside England, South Africa and Afghanistan, will begin thei??r campaign with a highly anticipated clash aga??inst arch-rivals England on February 22.

Also READ: Australia’s Ricky Ponti??ng reveals his pick to replace injured Mitch Marsh for Champions Trophy 2025

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The Team of the Tournament for the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 has been announced. The eight BBL coaches have p??icked a special team featuring some of the top performers who shined in the competition with their supreme consistency.

David Warner to lead the special team

Two players from BBL|14 finalists, Hobart Hurricanes, have made the cut: Mitchell Owen and Tim David. Leading run-scorer Cooper Connolly from Perth Scorchers has also earned a spot in the team. Sydney Thunder’s David Warner has been named the captain of this special team, while Sam Billings takes on the wicketkeeper role. Warner, who is the second-highest run-getter in the tournament, brings his wealth o?f experience and leadership to the squad, adding extra depth to the lineup.

Notably, five out of the team’s 12 members are still in the hunt for the title in BBL|14 as the Sixers face the Thunder in their first-ever BBL finals (Challenger) Sydney derby clash at the SCG on Friday. The thrilling contest will see both teams battling for a spot in the finals, with the winner set to advance to meet the Hurricanes in the highly anticipated title showdown next Monday.

Also WATCH: Doug Warren’s ice??-cold celebrat??ion after dismissing Sam Billings in the Eliminator of BBL|14

BBL|14 Team of the Tournament:

• David Warner (c) �?Sydney Thunder (8 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Runs: 346 | HS: 88* | AVG: 49.42 | SR: 141.42 | 100s: 0 | 50s: 3
• Mitchell Owen �?Hobart Hurricanes (6 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Runs: 344 | HS: 101* | AVG: 38.22 | SR: 191.11 | 100s: 1 | 50s: 0
• Cooper Connolly �?Perth Scorchers (8 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Runs: 351 | HS: 66 | AVG: 50.14 | SR: 131.46 | 100s: 0 | 50s: 2
• Marcus Stoinis �?Melbourne Stars (4 votes)
  Matches: 11 | Runs: 311 | HS: 62 | AVG: 28.27 | SR: 124.40 | 100s: 0 | 50s: 1
• Sam Billings (wk) �?Sydney Thunder (3 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Runs: 209 | HS: 72 | AVG: 16.12 | SR: 129.81 | 100s: 0 | 50s: 1
• Glenn Maxwell �?Melbourne Stars (5 votes)
  Matches: 9 | Runs: 325 | HS: 90 | AVG: 54.16 | SR: 186.78 | 100s: 0 | 50s: 3
• Tim David �?Hobart Hurricanes (6 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Runs: 254 | HS: 68* | AVG: 42.33 | SR: 177.62 | 100s: 0 | 50s: 2
• Ben Dwarshuis �?Sydney Sixers (5 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Runs: 116 | Wickets: 14 | BBI: 4/32 | AVG: 22.64 | Eco: 8.76
• Tom Rogers �?Melbourne Renegades (8 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Wickets: 16 | BBI: 3/22 | AVG: 19.12 | Eco: 8.42
• Jason Behrendorff �?Perth Scorchers (5 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Wickets: 17 | BBI: 3/21 | AVG: 17.41 | Eco: 7.55
• Lloyd Pope �?Adelaide Strikers (5 votes)
  Matches: 10 | Wickets: 15 | BBI: 3/21 | AVG: 21.13 | Eco: 9.05

The 12th man of this team is Jamie Overton from Adelaide Strikers. He rece??ived 3 votes for his contributions in BBL|??14. While not part of the starting XI, Overton’s presence in the squad has been valuable, providing strong support as a backup player.

Also WATCH: Ja??ck Edwards takes a blinder to dismiss Matthew Wade in BBL|??14 Qualifier

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Former Australian opener David Warner expressed his preference for Travis Head to open the batting for Australia in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on January 29, in Galle. Warner’s comments come amidst discussions about the ideal lineup for the Australian team as they prepare for challenging conditions in the subcontinent.

David Warner’s choice of openers

Warner, who has been a stalwart of Australian cricket, emphasized the importance of experience when it comes to opening the innings in Sri Lanka. He acknowledged that while Sam Konstas showcased impressive skills during his debut series against India, he lacks the experience that Head brings to the table. “In the subcontinent over the years, we’ve not had a great deal of success. What does success look like for the Australian cricket team? It’s getting off to a good start and being able to capitalize,” Warner stated as quoted by Perth Now.

Also READ: Australia and South Africa players to miss the IPL 2025 playoffs for WTC Final – Reports

He highlighted Head’s previous performances in subcontinental conditions, noting that he has opened on five occasions in such environments, scoring 223 runs at an average of 55.75. Warner believes that this experience gives Head an edge over Konstas, who is yet to play any cricket in the subcontinent.

Despite leaning towards Head, Warner did not dismiss Konstas’ potential entirely. The young batsman made headlines with some audacious strokes during his debut innings against India, demonstrating his ability to take on bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. However, Warner pointed out that while Konstas has shown promise, he could benefit from more experience before taking on the responsibility of opening in challenging conditions.Warner remarked, “Could Sam do that as well? He probably could. But I think with the experience that Trav’s got and the opposition probably going, ‘Wow, it’s Travis Head, we’re going to have to be on point from ball one.'”

A dual opening strategy?

In a twist to his analysis, Warner also suggested that having both Head and Konstas open together could be an exciting option. “For me, it’s about them playing their game and what they need to do and that’s basically instinct,” he said. “I think it’d be a good move if they did that (opened with Head). On the other side, it wouldn’t be a bad move if Sam opened the batting.”

This dual approach could provide A?ustralia with a dynamic opening partnership capable of capitalizing on early overs agai??nst Sri Lankan bowlers.

Also READ: PSL 2025 Draft – From David Warner to Kane Williamson – Full list of sold players in all categories

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In a display of exceptional athleticism, David Warner took a breathtaking catch off Mohammad Hasnain‘s bowling in Match 33 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 between Sydney Thunder and Perth Scorchers on Monday (January 13).

David Warner’s spectacular catch stuns in BBL 2024-25

The third delivery of the 14th over by Hasnain over was short and wide outside off, tempting Ashton Agar to go for an aggressive drive over the infield. Positioned at mid-off, Warner read the shot impeccably, tracking the ball as it soared into the air. Demonstrating incredible speed ?and precision, he sprinted back??ward to cover the distance and timed his leap perfectly.

With his body fully extended and hands outstretched, Warner grabbed the ball above his head, completing a catch that left spectators in awe. The dive added a touch of drama, emphasizing the difficulty of the opportunity. Warner’s sharp reflexes and impeccable judgment turned what seemed like a boundary-bound shot into a dismissal. Such moments underscore his value as a fielder and his ability to lift his team’s morale with sheer brilliance.

Here’s the video:

😱 @davidwarner31 😱

That's a screamer from the Thunder skipper! #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/tOQQYnY1qt

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 13, 2025

Also WATCH: Cooper Connolly’s bow and arrow celebration follow?ing Sam Billings�?dismissal in BBL|14

Sydney Thunder dominate Perth Scorchers with a comprehensive 61 runs win

The Thunder registered a commanding 61-run win over Scorchers in the 33rd match of BBL 2024-25 at the Sydney Showground Stadium. Batting first, the Thunder posted a competitive 158/7, thanks to a steady 53 from Sam Konstas and a blistering unbeaten 37 off 13 balls by Player of the Match Tom Andrews. The Scorchers�?bowling was led by Lance Morris, who claimed 3/43 but proved expensive.

In reply, the Scorchers collapsed to 97 all out in 17.2 overs, unable to counter the disciplined Thunder attack. Chris Green (3/13) and Nathan McAndrew (2/21) shone with the ball, dismantling the Scorchers�?lineup. Notable contributions for Scorchers came from Aaron Hardie (22) and Jason Behrendorff (17 not out), but a lack of partnerships cost them. ?Sharp fielding, including two crucial run-outs, sealed the win for the Thunder, boosting their ??playoff hopes.

Also READ: Fans go gaga over Matthew Short’s record-breaking ton against Brisbane Heat at Adelaide? Oval in BBL|14

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During an encounter between Hobart Hurricanes and Sydney Thunder in the 29th match of the Big Bash League 2024-25 at the Bellerive Oval, fans were treated to an unexpected moment when Sydney Thunder’s captain, David Warner, experienced a rare incident.

The broken bat of David Warner 

In the 4th over of the Sydney Thunder innings, Warner’s bat broke while facing Hobart Hurricanes�?fast bowler, Riley Meredith. Warner attempted a powerful drive on a full delivery but mistimed it, sending the ball to mid-off. In the process, the momentum of his bat’s swing caused it to break. The broken bat almost struck Warner in the head, but fortunately, it collided with his helmet instead, sparing him from injury.? The moment left fans and players alike stunned, adding an unexpected twist to the match.

Here is the video:

David Warner's bat broke and he's hit himself in the head with it 🤣#BBL14 pic.twitter.com/6g4lp47CSu

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 10, 2025

Despite the bat-breaking incident, Warner displayed remarkable resilience and composure. The Sydney Thunders�?skipper went on to deliver a stellar performance, finishing with an unbeaten 88 runs off 66 balls. His k??nock included seven boundaries and was powered by a strong strike rate of 133.33.

Also WATCH: Glenn Maxwell exe??cutes a flawless reverse ramp shot for a six off Ben Dwarshuis in the Big Bash League 2024-25

Riley Meredith strikes early in the powerplay

Batting first, Sydney Thunder set a target of 165, thanks largely to Warner’s heroics. However, Hobart Hurricanes’  Meredith stood out with the ball, claiming two crucial wickets. Meredith’s first breakthrough came during the powerplay in the 4th over. He dismissed Sam Konstas with a sharp bouncer that hurried the batter, forcing a mistimed pull. The top edge off Konstas’ glove lobbed gently into the hands of Matthew Wade behind the stumps.

A crucial blow in the death overs

Meredith’s second wicket came at a critical juncture in the 19th over. Using a slower short ball, he deceived Chris Green, who attempted a cut shot but ended up spooning a catch to Nathan Ellis at cover. The dismissal highlighted Meredith’s clever use of variations and his ability to deliver under pressure. Green departed?? after scoring just 8 runs.

Also REA??D: BBL|14 [Twitter Reactions]: Glenn Maxwell’s explosive knock powers Melbourne Stars to a thrilling last-over victory against Sydney Sixers

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In a heartwarming and triumphant moment, David Warner marked his return to form in the Big Bash League (BBL) by scoring his first fifty in over 11 years during a match between Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Renegades at the Sydney Showground Stadium on Monday, December 30. Warner’s impressive knocks not only delighted fans but also brought immense pride to his family, who were present to witness the milestone.

A long-awaited half-century for David Warner

Warner, who had been a prominent figure in Australian cricket, reached his half-century off just 40 balls, showcasing his aggressive batting style with a flurry of boundaries. His unbeaten knock of 86  included 10 fours and two sixes, helping the Thunder put a competitive total in the BBL 2024??-25 campaign. This performance was particularly significant as it ended a lengthy drought for Warner in the BBL, where he had not scored a fifty since 2013.

A proud family

The emotional highlight of the evening came when Warner’s wife, Candice, and their daughters were seen cheering enthusiastically from the stands. Their pride was palpable as they celebrated his achievement, capturing hearts on social media. Videos of the family’s reaction quickly went viral, with many fans sharing their joy at seeing such a supportive family dynamic.

Here’s the video:

David Warner's first BBL half-century since 2013! 👏

Things you love to see! #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/Uzjq8jamp3

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 30, 2024

Also WATCH: Will Sutherland takes ‘catch of the season’ to dismiss Sam Billings in BBL 2024-25

Match report

Talking about the result of the match, Sydney Thunder clinched a thrilling 8-run victory over Melbourne Renegades. Electing to bowl, the Renegades couldn’t contain Warner, who powered Thunder to 156/4 with a sublime 86 off 57 balls. Contributions from Matthew Gilkes (23 not out) and steady middle-order support set a challenging target. Adam Zampa was the most economical bowler for the Renegades, conceding just 24 runs and picking up a wicket.

In response, the Renegades faltered despite Laurie Evans’ explosive 40 off 26 balls. Wes Agar starred for the Thunder with a match-winning 4/32, while Daniel Sams (2/26), Chris Green (1/23) and Tom Andrews (1/34) delivered key blows to restrict the visitors to 148/8.

Warner’s heroics earned him the Player of the Match award, as the Thunder secured two valuable points in a tightly contested encounter.

David Warner wins Player of the match award for his terrific knock 🥇#Cricket #BigBashLeague #DavidWarner pic.twitter.com/fax0M1vePN

— betvisa69.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 30, 2024

Also READ: AUS vs IND – Here’s the reason behind Travis Head’s weird celebration after dismissing Rishabh Pant on Day 5 of MCG Test

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In the dynamic world of T20 cricket, moments of brilliance can turn the tide of a match in the blink of an eye. On December 17, during the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 match between the Adelaide Strikers and Sydney Thunder, David Warner made an electrifying return to captaincy, announcing his presence with a spectacular shot on?? the very first ball he faced. This bold move not only showcased his skill but also set the tone for what would become an exhilarating encounter.

David Warner stuns Matthew Short with a reverse sweep

With the match still in its infancy, Warner faced Matthew Short, who was bowling for the Strikers. The very first delivery to Warner was a half-volley on the stumps. In a moment that left fans and commentators alike in awe, Warner executed a reverse sweep, sending the ball soaring over the short third man fielder for a boundary. This audaciou??s shot was not just a display of technical prowess but also a statement of intent from Warner, who wa?s keen to assert his dominance early in the innings. The crowd erupted as the ball raced to the boundary, marking a thrilling start to his innings and his leadership comeback.

Also READ: BBL 2024-25 Squads: Teams and full list of players for Big Bash League Seas?on 14

Here’s the video:

The reverse – very first ball!

David Warner sends a message early. #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/7UP2sWy39S

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 17, 2024

Sydney Thunder edge past Adelaide Strikers 

The match progressed at Canberra’s Manuka Oval, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. The Strikers had set a competitive target of 183 runs, finishing their innings at 182/8 after 20 overs. Key contributions came from Jamie Overton, who scored a vital 45 runs off 35 balls, and James Bazley, who added 31 runs off just 12 balls. Despite losing early wickets, inclu??ding that of captain Short for just 7 runs, the Strikers manage??d to post a challenging total.

In response, Sydney Thunder began their chase with high hopes but faced immediate setbacks. Warner himself fell victim to Henry Thornton‘s bowling for just 7 runs, caught by Lloyd Pope in what was a disappointing start for the Thunder. However, Sam Konstas emerged as a beacon of hope, scoring an impressive 56 runs off 27 balls, keeping the Thunder’s chase alive

Sydney Thunder at the end, secured a victory in a close game by 2 wickets and two balls to spare. With an amazing display of batting by Daniel Sams who scores quickfire 42 runs of just 18 deliveries, it remains to be seen if they can capitalize on their current momentum and secure a? title finish this season.

Also WATCH: Ben Dwarshuis hits Will Sutherland for a monstrous 108-meter roo?f-hitting six in BBL 2024-25

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The third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 between India and Australia, set to unfold at the Gabba in Brisbane, promises to be a high-stakes encounter with the series level at 1-1. Beyond the on-field contest, the tension between Marnus Labuschagne and David Warner has taken center stage.

David Warner challenges Marnus Labuschagne’s technique

Warner had raised concerns about Labuschagne’s dismissals in the gully, particularly during the first innings of the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Speaking to Fox Cricket, Warner expressed doubts over Labuschagne’s technical approach, suggesting that his dismissals were a rec?urring pattern when reaching 50 or beyond.  Warner’s comments suggested a level of skepticism regarding Labuschagne’s ability to adapt and maintain consistency at the highest level.

“I’m still not convinced with Marnus. I don’t think that was anywhere near what we know he’s capable of. He might have got a couple out of the middle, got a couple of freebies, batted well that night to get through but they bowled poorly. So from that perspective, he had the best conditions to come out and bat in. But he got out the same way he always does get out when he gets over 50, hits it straight to gully,” Warner said.

Labuschagne defends with confidence and facts

Labuschagne wasted no time responding to Warner’s criticism, emphasizing his composure and statistical backing. In an interview with News Corp, Labuschagne hit back, saying, “I’d like to see him check how many times I’ve been caught at gully, because apparently I get out there every week,”

Labuschagne pointed out that he has only been dismissed in the gully region twice in his career, cha??llenging the validity of Warner’s critique. He further explained that his dismissal in Adelaide was the result of an unusual skidding delivery, rather than a technical flaw that needs immediate correction.

“I’ve looked back and I think I can only remember getting caught at gully twice. So I might have to have a look at Bull’s (Warner’s) comment there. But like I said, everyone’s here to write newspapers, write articles,” Labuschagne concluded, effecti??vely casting doubt on Warner’s assessment.

Also READ: 6 records which Vir??at Kohli can shatter during the AUS vs IND Test at Gab?ba

Labuschagne’s pivotal role at the Gabba

Despite the criticism, Labuschagne’s gritty 64-run knock off 126 deliveries during the second Test was a crucial anchor for Australia’s innings. His role as a steady presence at No. 3 has become even more critical as Australia heads into the decisive third Test at the Gabba. The Gabba, renowned for it??s pace-friendly conditions, will once again put Labuschagne’s technique under scrutiny. With the series tied at 1-1, Labuschagne will look to build on his Adelaide innings and prove his critics wro??ng by delivering a match-defining performance in Brisbane.

The Gabba’s challenging conditions – offering assistance to pace bowlers – will once again test Labuschagne’s technique, particularly against seamers like Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah. His ability to perform under t??hese circumstances could define Australia’s chances of gaining an upper ha??nd in this closely contested series.

Also READ: AUS vs IND, 3rd Te??st: Brisbane Weather Forecast, Test Stats & Records at Gabba Stadium | Australia vs India 2024

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