Cricket news

Kohli’s century silences critics, Rizwan’s tribute sparks admiration

Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 100 and record-breaking milestone earned rare admiration from Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan, redefining sportsmanship in cricket

Published

11 months ago

February 24, 2025

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Virat Kohli in full swing during a cricket match

In a dramatic turn of events at the post-match press conference, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan left no doubt about his admiration for India’s cricket superstar, Virat Kohli. In a display that transcended fierce on-field rivalries, Rizwan began his address by extolling Kohli’s form and commitment—an unprecedented gesture in high-stakes international cricket.

A masterclass on the field

Virat Kohli delivered a stunning performance with an unbeaten 100 off 111 balls—a knock that not only thrilled millions of cricket enthusiasts but also underscored his immense talent. His innings, punctuated with seven powerful fours, came at a time when doubts about his form were rife. Critics had questioned his place in the team following a series of lackluster performances, but Kohli’s resolute comeback silenced his detractors instantly. Moreover, he achieved the milestone of becoming the fastest to reach 14,000 ODI runs, reaffirming his status as one of the game’s all-time greats.

Kohli’s innings was a blend of grit and flair, combining impeccable timing with an aggressive yet controlled approach. His performance was a masterclass in batting, where every stroke was executed with precision and purpose. This resurgence was not only vital for his team but also served as an inspiration for cricket fans worldwide.

Rizwan’s candid praise

What made the press conference truly memorable was Rizwan’s unexpected openness. Despite representing Pakistan—a team locked in a fierce rivalry with India—Rizwan chose to spotlight Kohli’s excellence before delving into his own team’s shortcomings. “First, let’s talk about Virat Kohli. I am surprised at his hard work. The world says he is out of form, but he comes to such big matches and easily hits the ball,” Rizwan remarked, his words resonating with admiration and respect.

In an environment where sportsmanship is often overshadowed by rivalry, Rizwan’s tribute was both surprising and refreshing. He acknowledged Kohli’s relentless work ethic and exceptional fitness, highlighting the Indian captain’s unwavering dedication even at the age of 36. Such commendation from a rival captain speaks volumes about Kohli’s consistency and the high regard in which he is held across borders.

The ripple effects on the match

Kohli’s towering performance not only steered India to a memorable victory but also left Pakistan grappling with introspection. While Rizwan’s comments celebrated Kohli’s brilliance, he was equally candid about his team’s failings. Reflecting on Pakistan’s performance, Rizwan admitted, “All three departments have made mistakes. That’s why we are losing the match.” His frank assessment underscored a challenging night for Pakistan, whose efforts fell short in batting, bowling, and fielding.

With a second consecutive defeat, Pakistan’s title defense now hangs in the balance. The pressure mounts as their fate rests on future matches, with upcoming encounters against teams like Bangladesh and New Zealand holding the promise of either redemption or further disappointment. The on-field dynamics of cricket often pivot on such performances, and Kohli’s display has inadvertently added another layer to the unfolding narrative.

Beyond the numbers: the spirit of cricket

This episode serves as a potent reminder that cricket, at its core, is as much about respect and passion as it is about competition. Rizwan’s praise for Kohli transcends the traditional rivalry, spotlighting an era where sportsmanship can shine even in the heat of battle. His comments resonate deeply with fans and fellow players alike, challenging the often adversarial tone of international sports.

Kohli’s performance, characterized by both brilliance and consistency, reaffirms his position as a linchpin in modern cricket. His ability to turn the tide of a match, even when the odds are stacked against him, is a testament to his mental strength and technical prowess. As the cricketing world continues to evolve, moments like these remind us that the spirit of the game is not solely defined by victories or defeats, but by the grace and humility exhibited by its players.

While the match’s outcome casts a shadow over Pakistan’s title hopes, it has simultaneously illuminated the extraordinary talent of Virat Kohli. His latest innings stands as a beacon of inspiration—a narrative of resilience, determination, and excellence that transcends national rivalries.

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Pakistan’s India boycott at T20 World Cup 2026 puts team at risk of ICC action

Pakistan’s boycott of its India clash at the T20 World Cup 2026 has sparked a major row, with the ICC warning of sanctions that could impact the team’s future.

Published

1 day ago

February 2, 2026

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Pakistan’s decision to boycott its group-stage match against India at the T20 World Cup 2026 has triggered a major controversy, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) warning of possible punitive action that could impact Pakistan’s participation in global cricket.

The Pakistan cricket team is set to take part in the tournament but will not take the field against India in the February 15 match scheduled in Colombo. The move was approved by the Pakistan government and announced publicly through a social media post, which confirmed participation in the event while excluding the India fixture.

Why Pakistan decided to boycott the India match

The decision follows the ICC’s removal of Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup 2026. Bangladesh had requested a venue change for their matches citing security concerns, but the request was turned down by the ICC, eventually leading to their exclusion from the tournament. Pakistan’s government cited this development while taking the call to skip the India game.

ICC responds with strong warning

Reacting to Pakistan’s stance, the ICC said selective participation undermines the integrity and fairness of global tournaments. In its official statement, the governing body stressed that ICC events are built on sporting integrity, competitiveness and consistency, adding that such decisions are not in the interest of the global game or fans, including those in Pakistan.

The ICC also clarified that it has not yet received any formal communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board regarding the boycott decision.

Sanctions Pakistan could face

According to developments surrounding the issue, Pakistan could face a range of consequences if the boycott is enforced. These may include financial penalties, a possible ban from the current or future ICC events, and resistance from top cricketing nations in scheduling bilateral series. There is also a risk that overseas players could be barred from participating in the Pakistan Super League if sanctions escalate.

The situation remains fluid as the ICC is expected to take a final call after official communication from Pakistan’s cricket board.

Cricket news

India predicted XI for 5th T20I vs New Zealand as Kishan set for return

India are expected to bring back Ishan Kishan and Axar Patel for the 5th T20I vs New Zealand as the hosts aim to end the series on a high.

Published

3 days ago

January 31, 2026

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India will look to end their T20I series against New Zealand on a positive note when the two sides meet in the fifth and final match in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday. Although the hosts have already secured the five-match series by winning the first three games, they suffered a 50-run defeat in the fourth T20I.

New Zealand posted a challenging total of 215 for 7 in the previous match, with Tim Seifert striking an aggressive half-century. Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell added valuable contributions to push the visitors to a commanding score. In response, Shivam Dube provided resistance with a powerful knock, but India failed to keep up with the required run rate and fell well short.

With this match being India’s final T20I before the upcoming T20 World Cup, the team management is expected to field players who are likely to feature in the global tournament.

Sanju Samson is set for a crucial outing in front of his home crowd. The wicketkeeper-batter has managed just 40 runs across four matches in the series and will be keen to regain form. He is expected to open the batting alongside the in-form Abhishek Sharma.

Ishan Kishan is likely to return to the XI and slot in at No. 3, while captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to move back to his preferred No. 4 position. Shivam Dube is set to retain his place following his recent performance and is also expected to provide a bowling option if required.

Axar Patel, who missed games earlier due to a finger injury sustained in the opening T20I, is expected to make his comeback. India’s spin attack is likely to feature Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav as specialist spinners.

In the pace department, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh are expected to lead the attack. All-rounder Hardik Pandya is likely to be rested after featuring in the first four matches of the series.

India predicted XI for 5th T20I vs New Zealand

Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh

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Shivam Dube’s blazing fifty not enough as New Zealand defeat India by 50 runs in 4th T20I

Shivam Dube’s explosive fifty was not enough as India collapsed in a tough chase, losing the fourth T20I to New Zealand by 50 runs in Visakhapatnam.

Published

5 days ago

January 29, 2026

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Shivam Dube produced a sensational counter-attacking half-century, but India suffered a comprehensive 50-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth T20I at Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, as the visitors narrowed the series margin to 3-1.

Chasing a stiff target of 216, India’s innings never gathered momentum after losing early wickets. Dube’s blistering knock of 65 off just 23 balls briefly lifted hopes, but the hosts were eventually dismissed for 165.

India’s chase got off to a disastrous start with Abhishek Sharma falling to the very first ball, mistiming Matt Henry to deep point. Suryakumar Yadav followed soon after, undone by a sharp return catch from Jacob Duffy, leaving India reeling at 9 for two.

Rinku Singh and Sanju Samson attempted to stabilise the innings, but both struggled to accelerate against disciplined New Zealand bowling. Rinku scored 39 before being trapped leg-before by Zak Foulkes, while Samson’s promising stay ended when Mitchell Santner beat him with a straight delivery.

Hardik Pandya failed to make an impact, and India slipped further to 82 for five in the 11th over. It was then that Dube launched a fierce counter-attack, displaying remarkable power and composure despite the rising asking rate.

Dube survived a leg-before decision on 46 via DRS and punished leg-spinner Ish Sodhi with a stunning 29-run over, including five boundaries and three sixes. He brought up his fifty in just 15 balls, clearing the ropes off Duffy, but lacked support from the other end. The sixth-wicket stand added 63 runs, though Harshit Rana contributed only four.

Dube’s innings came to an unfortunate end when Rana’s straight drive deflected off Henry’s hand and crashed into the stumps at the non-striker’s end, effectively ending India’s chase.

Earlier, New Zealand laid the foundation for their imposing total through an explosive opening stand between Tim Seifert and Devon Conway. Seifert top-scored with 62 off 36 balls, striking seven fours and three sixes, while Conway made 44.

The pair raced to 71 without loss in the Power Play and stitched together a 100-run opening partnership. Though India managed to pull things back in the middle overs by taking quick wickets, Daryl Mitchell’s unbeaten 39 off 18 balls powered New Zealand past the 200-run mark.

Despite a brief slowdown, the visitors finished with a commanding total that proved too much for India on the night.