Champions Trophy: Jamie Smith back as England name playing 11 for opener vs Australia

IANS | February 20, 2025 10:40 PM

Lahore, Feb 20 (IANS) Jamie Smith will bat at No.3 for the first time in his ODI career and keep wicket for England in their Champions Trophy opener against Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium here on Saturday. Joe Root, England’s long-time No. 3, moved down to No.4 in the final match of their recent 3-0 ODI series loss in India and will continue in that role. Smith, who has only batted at No.5 or 6 in his seven-match ODI career, steps into a new position in his first ICC tournament appearance.

Champions Trophy: We're 100 percent looking to win title, says Afghanistan captain Shahidi ahead of SA clash

IANS | February 20, 2025 9:06 PM

Karachi, Feb 20 (IANS) Ahead of their opening match of the Champions Trophy against South Africa on Friday, Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi is confident of starting on a winning note in pursuit of their maiden ICC title. Afghanistan enter the tournament after securing four consecutive ODI series victories against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.

Champions Trophy: Shami picks 5-53 as India bowl out Bangladesh for 228

IANS | February 20, 2025 6:44 PM

Dubai, Feb 20 (IANS) Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami stepped up to come good in ICC tournaments yet again by picking his sixth five-wicket haul in ODIs as India bowled out Bangladesh for 228 in 49.4 overs in a Group A match at the Dubai International Stadium on Thursday. On a slow pitch, Shami was the standout bowler for India, striking in the first 10 overs and at the back end to take his fifth five-for in an ICC ODI tournament. He was well-supported by Harshit Rana taking 3-31, while Axar Patel took 2-43, though he missed his hat-trick.

Champions Trophy: Pakistan fined for slow over-rate in opener against NZ

IANS | February 20, 2025 6:24 PM

Dubai, Feb 20 (IANS) Pakistan have been fined five percent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate during their opening encounter against New Zealand in the tournament opener at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday. The penalty was imposed after Mohammad Rizwan’s side was found to be one over short of the required rate despite time allowances being considered.