Cricket
Rachin Ravindra Injury Sparks Controversy: Calls to Shift Champions Trophy from Pakistan

New Zealand’s rising cricket star, Rachin Ravindra, suffered a serious forehead injury during the first ODI of the tri-series against Pakistan in Lahore. The injury, which led to significant bleeding, has raised concerns about player safety in Pakistan, with many cricket fans and analysts questioning the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as the host for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
What Happened?
The incident occurred during the 37th over of Pakistan’s innings when Khushdil Shah played a slog-sweep off Michael Bracewell towards deep square leg. Ravindra, positioned to take the catch, lost sight of the ball due to the floodlights and was struck directly on the forehead.
The impact left Ravindra visibly shaken, with blood dripping down his face, shocking both the players and the crowd at Gaddafi Stadium. Medical teams and Pakistan’s team doctor rushed to his aid, treating him on the ground before escorting him off the field.
PCB Under Fire for Safety Concerns
Following the injury, social media erupted with fans blaming the PCB for poor playing conditions. Many cricket followers and experts even called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider Pakistan as the host for the 2025 Champions Trophy, suggesting Dubai as a safer alternative.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif, speaking on the Caught Behind podcast, pointed out a key issue: the use of LED floodlights at Gaddafi Stadium. He explained that LED lights create excessive glare, making it difficult for fielders to track the ball, especially on high shots.
What Next for the Champions Trophy?
This incident has put the PCB under immense pressure, with concerns about stadium lighting, security, and overall player safety now under the spotlight. With the Champions Trophy scheduled for 2025 in Pakistan, the ICC may face increasing calls to shift the tournament to a safer venue.
As the cricketing world awaits an official update on Rachin Ravindra’s recovery, the debate over Pakistan’s hosting capabilities continues.
Stay Updated with the Latest Cricket News
For more updates on Sri Lanka and international cricket, follow Sri Lankan Sports TV for the latest match reports, player insights, and expert analysis
Cricket
Bangladesh to Tour Sri Lanka for Full-Fledged Series in June-July 2025
Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed that the Bangladesh National Men’s Team will tour the island from June 13 to July 16, 2025, for a multi-format bilateral series featuring 2 Tests, 3 ODIs, and 3 T20Is.
The tour kicks off with the Test series, which begins on June 17 at Galle International Stadium, followed by the second Test from June 25 to 29 at the SSC in Colombo. This red-ball series will offer crucial preparation and exposure for both sides ahead of the upcoming ICC events.
Sri Lanka holds a dominant record in Test encounters, having won 20 out of 26 matches against Bangladesh. Bangladesh has managed just one win, with five Tests ending in draws. Their last Test series in April 2024 saw Sri Lanka claim a clean sweep in Bangladesh, 2-0.
The limited-overs leg begins with ODIs on July 2 and 5 at R. Premadasa Stadium, before the third match takes place on July 8 at Pallekele — all day-night games starting at 2:30 PM.
The action continues with the T20I series, starting July 10 in Pallekele, followed by matches in Dambulla (July 13) and a final showdown at R. Premadasa Stadium on July 16.
Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Tour Fixtures – 2025:
- June 17–21: 1st Test – Galle
- June 25–29: 2nd Test – SSC, Colombo
- July 2: 1st ODI – R. Premadasa Stadium
- July 5: 2nd ODI – R. Premadasa Stadium
- July 8: 3rd ODI – Pallekele
- July 10: 1st T20I – Pallekele
- July 13: 2nd T20I – Dambulla
- July 16: 3rd T20I – R. Premadasa Stadium
This tour promises exciting cricket as both teams aim to fine-tune their squads across formats.
Cricket
Sri Lanka Soars to Fourth in ICC ODI Rankings After Remarkable Year
Sri Lanka has climbed to 4th place in the latest ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings, marking a major achievement in the team’s ongoing revival in international cricket. This surge, confirmed after the International Cricket Council’s annual update, reflects a year of consistent and impressive performances.
The upward shift in rankings saw Sri Lanka gain five valuable rating points, pushing them past powerhouse teams like Pakistan and South Africa. Now trailing only India, Australia, and England, Sri Lanka has re-established itself as a major contender in the One Day International (ODI) format.
Key Factors Behind Sri Lanka’s Rise in ODI Rankings
This rankings boost has been fueled by a string of dominant series wins, especially at home. Victories against top-tier teams such as India and Australia have been pivotal. Sri Lanka’s bowling unit has shown exceptional control and discipline, while the batting lineup has evolved into a reliable force, capable of adapting to various match situations.
The leadership of head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and captain Charith Asalanka has been central to this transformation. Jayasuriya’s experience and aggressive tactical approach have revitalized the team, while Asalanka’s calm leadership and key contributions with the bat have earned him praise as a future great.
Youth and Experience Creating a Winning Combination
Emerging stars like Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Janith Liyanage have provided fresh energy and depth. Their seamless integration alongside veterans has created a balanced and confident unit.
With ICC global tournaments on the horizon, this momentum places Sri Lanka in a strong position to challenge the world’s best. The team’s rise to fourth in the ICC ODI rankings is more than just a number — it’s a testament to their growing belief and ambition on the world stage.
Cricket
Sri Lanka Women Stun India in Record-Breaking Run Chase at R. Premadasa
Sri Lanka Women pulled off a sensational chase to defeat India Women by 3 wickets with 5 balls to spare in a high-scoring thriller at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo during the fourth match of the Women’s ODI Tri-Series 2025. Chasing a formidable target of 276, the home side held their nerve to reach 278/7, registering one of their most memorable victories in ODI history.
India Women, after being put in to bat first, posted a commanding 275/9 in their 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a fluent 50 from Richa Ghosh, who struck 5 fours and 2 sixes in her 42-ball knock. Useful contributions from the top and middle order pushed India past the 250-mark, despite late wickets stalling momentum.
Sri Lanka’s chase started steadily, but the game came alive in the middle overs thanks to key innings from Harshitha Madavi (50 off 57) and skipper Chamari Athapaththu. However, the turning point came when Nilakshika Silva took charge with a blistering 56 off just 33 balls, including 4 boundaries and 3 sixes. Her late onslaught, along with support from the lower middle order, ensured Sri Lanka crossed the finish line at 278/7 in 49.1 overs.
This match also set a record as the highest match aggregate (553 runs) between the two sides in Women’s ODIs, underlining the growing competitiveness of Sri Lanka Women’s cricket on the international stage.
Nilakshika Silva was named Player of the Match for her match-winning knock under pressure.
With this win, Sri Lanka Women have gained valuable momentum and sent a strong message to both opponents in the tri-series, showcasing their depth and fighting spirit.
Match Summary:
- India Women: 275/9 (Richa Ghosh 50, D Hemalatha 34; SL bowlers shared wickets)
- Sri Lanka Women: 278/7 in 49.1 overs (Nilakshika Silva 56*, Harshitha Madavi 50)
Tri-Series 2025: Points Table & Team Form Update
With each team having played at least two matches, the Women’s ODI Tri-Series in Sri Lanka is heating up as both India and Sri Lanka have secured two wins each, while South Africa is yet to register a victory.
Points Table (as of May 4, 2025):
- India Women sit at the top based on a superior Net Run Rate (NRR), despite their 3-wicket loss to Sri Lanka on May 4.
- Sri Lanka Women made a strong comeback after an opening loss to India, now securing back-to-back wins against South Africa and India.
- South Africa Women have struggled, with two straight losses and a negative NRR.
The battle for a place in the final is still open, with each upcoming match carrying significant weight.
-
Live4 years ago
Live Broadcast of Syria vs Sri Lanka | AFC U23 Asian Championship Qualification
-
Football3 months ago
Sri Lanka Schools National Championship 2025: Super 8 Fixtures and Grouping
-
Football4 months ago
FFSL Rebrands Division-1 as ‘League-One’ with a Bold New Vision
-
News3 months ago
2025 Schools Rugby Season Set to Thrill Fans with Knockout and League Action
-
News4 years ago
We are Back
-
Football3 months ago
Sri Lanka Schools National Championship 2024: Super Eight Round Concludes – Semifinalists Confirmed!
-
Cricket3 months ago
Sri Lanka vs Australia 2nd Test: Spin to Dominate as Galle Pitch Set to Turn
-
Football4 months ago
Erling Haaland Signs Record-Breaking 9.5-Year Contract Extension with Manchester City