Cricket
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final: India vs New Zealand – The Ultimate Showdown
Dubai: The stage is set for an electrifying ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final as India takes on New Zealand in Dubai on March 9. Both teams have displayed remarkable form throughout the tournament, and fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating an intense battle for the coveted title.
India’s Path to the Final
India has been dominant in the tournament, securing crucial victories against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the group stage. In the semi-final on March 4, they faced Australia and emerged victorious by four wickets, successfully chasing a target of 265 with 11 balls to spare. Rohit Sharma (68), Virat Kohli (54), and KL Rahul (45) played crucial roles, while Ravindra Jadeja (38*) ensured a composed finish.
New Zealand’s Journey
New Zealand stormed into the final with a commanding 50-run win over South Africa in the second semi-final on March 5 in Lahore. Batting first, the Kiwis posted a massive total of 362/6, with Devon Conway (112) and Glenn Phillips (89) leading the charge. South Africa fought hard but fell short, finishing at 312/9.
Key Absence: Bumrah Ruled Out
A significant concern for India heading into the final is the absence of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has been ruled out of the squad. This will put added responsibility on the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja to deliver with the ball against a strong New Zealand batting lineup.
Key Players to Watch
For India, the experienced duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be crucial in handling New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack. With Bumrah out, Mohammed Siraj’s pace and Kuldeep Yadav’s spin could be decisive factors in restricting the Black Caps’ batting lineup.
New Zealand will rely on Kane Williamson’s tactical approach and the firepower of their bowling unit, led by Trent Boult and Lockie Ferguson, to challenge India’s batting order. The all-round abilities of Mitchell Santner and Daryl Mitchell could also prove vital in this high-stakes clash.
A Historic Final Awaits
As two of the most consistent teams in world cricket prepare for the ultimate battle, fans can expect a thrilling contest in Dubai. Will India continue their dominance and add another ICC trophy to their collection, or will New Zealand finally claim their first Champions Trophy title?
The countdown to the grand finale begins – cricket enthusiasts, get ready for an unforgettable showdown!
Cricket
Leadership Change Looms at Sri Lanka Cricket
Sri Lanka Cricket could be on the verge of a major leadership shake-up, with reports suggesting that President Shammi Silva is expected to resign from his post on Wednesday, potentially ending a seven-year tenure at the helm of the governing body.
According to a report published by Daily Mirror, Silva’s anticipated resignation follows a request from the government, signaling possible political involvement in the administration of the sport.
The report further indicates that former Member of Parliament and State Minister Eran Wickramaratne is likely to be appointed as the Interim President of Sri Lanka Cricket, should Silva step down as expected.
Silva, who was first elected to the position in February 2019, has maintained his leadership through multiple election victories, overseeing Sri Lanka Cricket during a period marked by both challenges and transitions.
While no official confirmation has yet been issued, the reported developments have already sparked widespread discussion within cricketing and political circles, raising questions about the future direction of the country’s cricket administration.
Cricket
LPL Sixth Edition to Be Played Across Four Venues from July 10 to August 5
The sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) is set to take place from July 10 to August 5, 2026, promising another exciting season of top-quality Twenty20 cricket. As Sri Lanka’s premier domestic T20 competition with a strong international presence, the tournament continues to attract both local and overseas talent.
This year’s matches will be held across four venues: Sinhalese Sports Club Ground (SSC), R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium (RPICS), Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (PICS), and Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS). These iconic grounds are expected to provide a vibrant atmosphere and excellent playing conditions throughout the competition.
The online registration portal for foreign players will officially open on May 4, 2026, allowing international cricketers to sign up and participate in the league. This step ensures the continuation of LPL’s global appeal, as overseas players add competitiveness and diversity to the tournament.
The event will be organized by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), the official owner of the league, in partnership with The IPG Group, which holds the event rights. Their collaboration has been instrumental in maintaining the league’s high standards since its inception.
Launched in 2020, the LPL has rapidly grown in popularity among cricket fans. Mr. Samantha Dodanwela, an Executive Committee Member of SLC, will continue in his role as Tournament Director, ensuring smooth organization and execution.
With thrilling matches and star players expected, LPL 2026 is set to deliver another unforgettable cricketing spectacle.
Cricket
Dambulla Gears Up for Women’s ‘A’ Cricket Action in May 2026
Sri Lanka is set to host an exciting bilateral cricket series as the New Zealand Women’s A Team tours the island in May 2026. The series, featuring both One Day and T20 matches, will see the visitors compete against the Sri Lanka Women’s A Team in what promises to be a competitive showcase of emerging talent.
All matches will be held at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS), with play scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. each day. The New Zealand side is expected to arrive in Sri Lanka on 7 May 2026, giving them several days to acclimatize before the series begins.
The tour will consist of three One Day matches followed by three T20 encounters. The One Day fixtures are scheduled for 12th, 15th, and 18th May, while the T20 series will take place on 21st, 23rd, and 25th May.
This series is seen as an important opportunity for both teams to develop their next generation of international players. With a mix of promising players and those on the cusp of senior national selection, the matches are expected to be closely contested.
-
Football1 year agoSri Lanka Schools National Championship 2025: Super 8 Fixtures and Grouping
-
News1 year ago2025 Schools Rugby Season Set to Thrill Fans with Knockout and League Action
-
Cricket11 months agoNuwan Thushara Shines as RCB Storms into IPL 2025 Final
-
Cricket1 year agoSri Lanka’s Greatest Cricketers: Top Batters and Bowlers of All Time
-
Live5 years agoLive Broadcast of Syria vs Sri Lanka | AFC U23 Asian Championship Qualification
-
News11 months agoMajor Shake-Up in Sports Governance: New 2025 Regulations Reform National Sports Bodies in Sri Lanka
-
Football1 year agoFFSL Rebrands Division-1 as ‘League-One’ with a Bold New Vision
-
Football12 months agoSri Lanka Announces U19 Football Squad for SAFF Championship 2025

