The former England batting star Ian Bell has been appointed the assistant coach for the Delhi Capitals for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, 2026. The news was officially confirmed by the Delhi Capitals side on Tuesday.

Bell, now 43 years of age, possesses extensive global experience coupled with technical skills as the Capitals seek to have a better season in the upcoming IPL 2026.

Delhi Capitals’ IPL 2025 Recap

Delhi Capitals had a frustrating season in the IPL 2025 tournament. They managed to finish the tournament as the fifth team on the points table. This team had just one point shy of qualifying for the playoffs. In response, the franchise decided to bolster their support staff.

The inclusion of Ian Bell is also considered a strategic initiative in light of sharpening the batting department.

Ian Bell’s Role in Delhi Capitals Setup

As assistant coach, Ian Bell will work closely with:

Head Coach: Hemang Badani

Team Mentor: Kevin Pietersen

Director of Cricket: Venugopal Rao

Bowling Coach: Munaf Patel

Both of them, Bell and Pietersen, have been part of the England cricket team, so that adds strong international pedigree to Delhi Capitals’ think tank for IPL 2026.

Ian Bell’s International Playing Career

Ian Bell had a distinguished international career for England, which involved appearances in:

118 Test matches

161 One-Day Internationals

8 T20 Internationals

His strongest format was Test cricket, where he scored:

7,727 runs

22 centuries

46 half-centuries

Bell’s technical proficiency and experience against top-tier bowling attacks are expected to benefit Delhi Capitals’ batters in pressure situations.

Ian Bell’s Coaching Experience

After retirement from a professional cricket career, Ian Bell has progressively accumulated a remarkable coaching record:

• Coached England age group and junior teams
• Served as Batting Coach to Sri Lanka in their tour of England during 2024
• Briefly worked with the New Zealand men’s side ahead of the 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup
• Assistant coach for Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred

Diverse exposure of such a nature in international and franchise cricket makes Bell a valuable pick ahead of IPL 2026.

Why Ian Bell’s Appointment Matters for IPL 2026

Delhi Capitals are looking to Ian Bell as a stabilizing presence, a wealth of batting experience, and a modern approach to coach who can help lessen the gap between how they perform in the regular season (Scoring Runs) than they would perform in playoff games.

With the coaching staff in place and a mindset of winning, DC should be successful in finding ways to win exciting games during IPL 2026.

Delhi Capitals have made a strong move towards building their core by naming Ian Bell as their assistant coach.

As an experienced player with a lot to prove at the IPL 2026 level, Bell will have an impact on the batting success of the DC and their chances of winning the tournament.

ALSO READ: Suryakumar Yadav Climbs ICC Rankings After Stunning T20I Comeback

And the wait is finally over. On 3 June 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) etched their name in history by winning their maiden title after 18 years at the IPL 2025. The six-run victory over Punjab Kings not only ended one of cricket’s most famous title droughts but also delivered a highly emotional victory for cricket star Virat Kohli, the face of the team for over a decade.

A Nail-Biting IPL 2025 Final For RCB

The IPL 2025 final was a nail-biting affair with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru batting first and setting a competitive score of 190 runs in 20 overs. Captain Rajat Patidar led the front, however, it was Virat Kohli’s amazing innings of 43 runs off 35 balls that actually provided the stability that the team needed. The middle order also gave in equal contributions, while Punjab’s Arshdeep Singh’s late burst of wickets prevented the team from crossing the 200 mark.

Punjab Kings, also in the pursuit of their first title, started with openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, who scored 43 runs in five overs. However, RCB’s bowlers, especially Krunal Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, turned the tables with their consistent spell and crucial wickets. After a strong performance by Shashank Singh, who scored 61 runs off 30 balls, Punjab finished 184/7, falling short by just six runs.

Virat Kohli’s Emotional High

As the final ball was bowled and victory was sealed, Virat Kohli was visibly emotional. Tears streamed down his face as the importance of the title kicked in. RCB had finally won an IPL trophy after a long wait of 18 years and three close calls at the finals. The official IPL account captured the sentiment of millions of fans worldwide and wrote, “The tears say it all. An 18-year wait comes to an end.”

The victory is more than just a trophy. It marks a new era for RCB. For Kohli, this achievement completes his cricket journey, as he now owns a trophy in every major tournament and format. Fireworks lit up the Ahmedabad sky at the IPL 2025 as “Ee Sala Cup Namde” echoed in the stands, marking a significant moment in IPL history.

Also Read: From Skirt to Sport: The Accidental Birth of Overarm Bowling

Yorkshire County Club has expressed disappointment as Jonny Bairstow joins the Mumbai Indians for the rest of the IPL 2025. He will be a temporary replacement for Will Jacks, who will leave the league stage for England’s national squad.

Yorkshire’s general manager, Gavin Hamilton, addressed the news and said, “Whilst it is naturally disappointing to lose Jonny for the next few weeks, the opportunity for him to play in the final stages of the IPL at this stage in his career is huge. Jonny has been open with us around his desire to play in the IPL from our very first conversation with him, and we’d like to wish him the best of luck in the coming weeks.”

Jonny Bairstow On The Opportunity

Bairstow is an emerging cricket star who sees this opportunity as important to get to the top. He reportedly joined the Mumbai Indians for Rs. 5.25 crore and brings vast experience with him, having played 50 IPL matches. He boasts an impressive IPL record with two centuries and a strike rate of 144.45.

He opened up about his decision to play in the IPL and claimed that it was not straightforward since he enjoys playing for Yorkshire. He said, “These decisions are never straightforward, especially given how much I’ve enjoyed leading Yorkshire this year”

“I’m incredibly grateful to the club for understanding, continued support and look forward to getting stuck back in on my return. This is a fantastic opportunity, and I’m excited to contribute to MI’s campaign. Can’t wait to get started and experience the energy of Mumbai,” he added

Mumbai Indians signed Jonny Bairstow alongside Richard Gleeson and Charith Asalanka to enhance their squad ahead of the playoffs in the IPL 2025. However, MI’s spot in the playoffs isn’t final yet. They will need to beat Delhi Capitals to earn a playoff spot in the IPL 2025.

Also Read: 2 Players Who Haven’t Played For England: The Hundred

Shardul Thakur, the star Indian cricketer known for his all-rounder abilities, was set to make his county cricket debut with Essex Cricket Club for the upcoming County Championship 2025 which has been his long-standing desire to experience this format. 

He also shared his excitement about the same previous month and said, “County cricket is something I always wanted to experience and I am glad that I’ll be representing the Eagles”, as he joined the Essex Club officially. 

However, his recent signing with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the IPL 2025 as a replacement for fast bowler Mohsin Khan might shatter his dream of playing for county cricket as the dates clash between the IPL and Essex schedule.

It was Shardul Thakur’s decision not to participate in the County Championships and rather feature in the IPL 2025 for LSG. The club officially confirmed the news and wrote on their X account, “Essex Cricket can confirm that Shardul Thakur will no longer be joining the Club for the start of the 2025 season following his selection by Lucknow Super Giants as a replacement player in the Indian Premier League.  

While we are naturally disappointed, we fully understand Shardul’s decision and wish him all the best for the tournament.”

Club Statement: Shardul Thakur

Essex Cricket can confirm that Shardul Thakur will no longer be joining the Club for the start of the 2025 season following his selection by Lucknow Super Giants as a replacement player in the Indian Premier League.

While we are naturally… pic.twitter.com/SWMUEK19IL

— Essex Cricket (@EssexCricket) March 23, 2025

His absence is seen as a missed opportunity for him to gain valuable experience in the English conditions ahead of India’s England tour later this year. However, the clash is only with the first six county games, which means he might be able to play from the seventh match according to his contract with Essex though it depends on how far LSG goes in the IPL 2025.

Shardul Thakur’s decision to join Essex came after his successful domestic season at the Ranji Trophy 2025, where he made 439 runs and took 34 wickets. Now, he looks forward to establishing himself as a key player in the IPL 2025 for LSG. 

Over the year, the right-handed batter has respected several teams in the IPL and has played a total of 94 IPL matches where he took 95 wickets and scored 307 runs in total. He has been an effective bowler in the tournament, achieving multiple three-wicket hauls. The pressure will be on his shoulders as he tries to fill the shoes of the star bowler Mohsin Khan.

Also Read: Get Ready For IPL 2025: Full Schedule, Fixtures and More

Mumbai Indians went to the top of the WPL table following an all-round display by Nat Sciver-Brunt, who led her team to an eight-wicket win over UP Warriorz in Bengaluru. The victory, their third in four games, was achieved with 18 balls to spare as Sciver-Brunt impressed with both bat and ball.

Sciver-Brunt’s Dominance Fuels Mumbai’s Ascent

Nat Sciver-Brunt gave a phenomenal all-around display, initially claiming 3 wickets for 18 runs and then complementing it with an unbeaten 75 off 44 balls to lead Mumbai to victory.

Having held UP Warriorz to a sub-par score of 142/9, Mumbai comfortably chased down the score, reaching 143/2 off 16.4 overs.

Warriorz’s Blazing Start Not Enough

The Warriors started well, courtesy of Grace Harris’ 45 off 29 balls and Vrinda Dinesh’s unflappable 33 off 30 balls. The two added a good 79-run stand for the second wicket, but all their good work was undone as Warriorz dramatically collapsed in the middle overs.

From a comfortable 81/1, they lost 8 wickets for a mere 54 runs, failing to get close to a competitive score.

Sciver-Brunt’s Blazing Innings

Pursuing a small target, Mumbai was struggling at 6/1, but Sciver-Brunt came to the crease to steady the innings. Even as Hayley Matthews struggled in the early stages, Sciver-Brunt asserted herself.

She sent the Warriorz bowlers into tatters with a string of boundaries. She reached her half-century in 29 balls, including a hat-trick of fours against Chinelle Henry. Her 13 boundaries during a 44-ball innings eased Mumbai to their third victory of the season.

Matthews’ Steady Support

While Sciver-Brunt ruled the show with the bat, Matthews played a stabilizing role at the other end. Although dropped at the beginning of her innings, Matthews worked herself into her stride, adding a vital 59 off 50 balls.

The two together shared an unbeaten 133-run partnership for the second wicket, ensuring that Mumbai reached the target quite comfortably.

Harris’ Promotion Pays Off for Warriorz

UP Warriorz brought in a tactical shift by elevating Grace Harris to bat at the top of the innings, and it proved to be a good move as she was in fine touch from the word go.

Harris took the game to the Mumbai bowlers, especially having a field day against Shabnim Ismail and Hayley Matthews, driving boundaries with ease. Vrinda played the perfect second fiddle, playing elegant drives and finding boundaries with ease.

Middle-Overs Collapse

Despite the encouraging beginning, the Warriorz were thwarted by the same old problem: their weakness in the middle overs. Once they had 81/1, the Warriorz folded at 123/7 in 30 runs. The key wickets were lost in the middle overs, with Amelia Kerr removing Harris in the 10th over.

Sanskriti Gupta then changed the complexion of the game by knocking over Vrinda and Tahlia McGrath in quick succession in the 11th over. With their momentum fully halted, the Warriorz never regained their footing.

Struggles in the Middle Overs

The Warriorz have struggled throughout the middle part of their innings in the WPL. They have lost the most wickets (24) in overs 7 to 16 in the tournament and have also been the slowest to score (6.72) in this period. Despite the initial spark by Harris and Vrinda, the absence of a strong middle-order base resulted in another lackluster collapse.

Sciver-Brunt’s Pioneering Role in the WPL

With 252 runs in four matches, Sciver-Brunt has emerged as the leading run-scorer in this year’s WPL, surpassing Ellyse Perry’s tally of 235. Her all-around dominance was the highlight of the match, and she continues to lead Mumbai’s charge towards the top of the table.

While Mumbai Indians have been in their prime, UP Warriorz will have to sort out their middle-order collapse and adopt a more stable game if they are going to challenge for the championship. Mumbai’s thumping victory, led by the brilliance of Sciver-Brunt, puts them in a strong position in the WPL points table.

ALSO READ: DCW vs MIW: Last Ball Thriller Victory Grabbed By DC In WPL 2025

Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most awaited leagues in the cricket world, they announced their schedule and we are here for it. A total of 10 teams will be competing for the title.

These teams are Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Mumbai Indians (MI), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Gujarat Titans (GT), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Delhi Capitals (DC), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

The league is set to begin on 22 March for three months across 13 venues. The match will be available for live streaming on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. You can also book tickets online on BookMyShow, Paytm Insider, and iplt20.com.

The tournament is full of exciting sixes to jaw-dropping clean-bowled, so hang on tight while we tell you all about the schedule and fixtures of IPL 2025.

Mark Your Calendars: IPL 2025 Dates, Times and Teams

22 March at 07:30 PM: KKR vs RCB at Eden Gardens, Kolkata

23 March at 03:30 PM: SRH vs RR at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

23 March at 07:30 PM: CSK vs MI at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

24 March at 07:30 PM: DC vs LSG at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

25 March at 07:30 PM: GTs vs PBKS at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati

26 March at 07:30 PM: RR vs KKR at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

27 March at 07:30 PM: SRH vs LSG at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

28 March at 07:30 PM: CSK vs RCB at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

29 March at 07:30 PM: GT vs MI at Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam

30 March at 03:30 PM: DC vs SRH at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati

30 March at 07:30 PM: RR vs CSK at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

31 March at 07:30 PM: MI vs KKR at Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

1 April at 07:30 PM: LSG vs PBKS at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

2 April at 07:30 PM: RCB vs GTs at Eden Gardens, Kolkata

3 April at 07:30 PM: KKR vs SRH at Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

4 April at 07:30 PM: LSG vs MI at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

5 April at 03:30 PM: CSK vs DC at New PCA Stadium, New Chandigarh

5 April at 07:30 PM: PBKS vs RR at Eden Gardens, Kolkata

6 April at 03:30 PM: KKR vs LSG at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

6 April at 07:30 PM: SRH vs GT at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

7 April at 07:30 PM: MI vs RCB at New PCA Stadium, New Chandigarh

8 April at 07:30 PM: PBKS vs CSK at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

9 April at 07:30 PM: GT vs RR at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

10 April at 07:30 PM: RCB vs DC at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

11 April at 07:30 PM: CSK vs KKR at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

12 April at 03:30 PM: Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans at Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

12 April at 07:30 PM: SRH vs PBKS at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

13 April at 03:30 PM: RR vs RCB at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

13 April at 07:30 PM: DC vs MI at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

14 April at 07:30 PM: LSG vs CSK at Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

15 April at 07:30 PM: PBKS vs KKR at New PCA Stadium, New Chandigarh

16 April at 07:30 PM: DC vs RR at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

17 April at 07:30 PM: MI vs SRH at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

18 April at 07:30 PM: RCB vs PBKS at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

19 April at 03:30 PM: GT vs DC at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

19 April at 07:30 PM: RR vs LSG at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

20 April at 03:30 PM: PBKS vs RCB at New PCA Stadium, New Chandigarh

April 20 at 07:30 PM: MI vs CSK at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

April 21 at 07:30 PM: KKR vs GT at Eden Gardens, Kolkata

April 22 at 07:30 PM: LSG vs DC at Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

April 23 at 07:30 PM: SRH vs MI at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

April 24 at 07:30 PM: RCB vs RR at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

April 25 at 07:30 PM: CSK vs SRH at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

April 26 at 07:30 PM: KKR vs PBKS at Eden Gardens, Kolkata

April 27 at 03:30 PM: MI vs LSG at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

April 27 at 07:30 PM: DC vs RCB at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

April 28 at 07:30 PM: RR vs GT at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

April 29 at 07:30 PM: DC vs KKR at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

April 30 at 07:30 PM: CSK vs PBKS at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

May 1 at 07:30 PM: RR vs MI at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

May 2 at 07:30 PM: GT vs SRH at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

May 3 at 07:30 PM: RCB vs CSK at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

May 4 at 03:30 PM: KKR vs RR at Eden Gardens, Kolkata

May 4 at 07:30 PM: PBKS vs LSG at HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala

May 5 at 07:30 PM: SRH vs DC at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

May 6 at 07:30 PM: MI vs GT at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

May 7 at 07:30 PM: KKR vs CSK at Eden Gardens, Kolkata

May 8 at 07:30 PM: PBKS vs DC at HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala

May 9 at 07:30 PM: LSG vs RCB at Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

May 10 at 07:30 PM: SRH vs KKR at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

May 11 at 03:30 PM: PBKS vs MI at HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala

May 11 at 07:30 PM: DC vs GT at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

May 12 at 07:30 PM: CSK vs RR at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

May 13 at 07:30 PM: RCB vs SRH at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

May 14 at 07:30 PM: GT vs LSG at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

May 15 at 07:30 PM: MI vs DC at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

May 16 at 07:30 PM: RR vs PBKS at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

May 17 at 07:30 PM: RCB vs KKR at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

May 18 at 03:30 PM: GT vs CSK at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

May 18 at 07:30 PM: LSG vs SRH at Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

Qualifier 1 May 20 at 7:30 PM IST: TBD vs TBD Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

Eliminator May 21, 7:30 PM IST: TBD vs TBD Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

Qualifier 2 May 23, 7:30 PM IST: TBD vs TBD Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Final May 25, 7:30 PM IST: TBD vs TBD Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Also Read: Top 5 Non-Opener Batsmen In T20 International Cricket

In the second Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 match, Delhi Capitals won a heart-stopping game against Mumbai Indians by a mere 2 wickets in the final ball.

The Saturday match was an emotional roller-coaster, with both sides taking turns to gain and lose momentum during the game. The high drama of the final over, coupled with a disputed umpire call, contributed to the suspense and tension that made this match unforgettable.

Mumbai Indians’ Innings: A Strong Start, but No Support

Choosing to field first, Delhi Capitals managed to restrict Mumbai Indians to a total of 164 runs in 19.1 overs. Despite a brilliant individual performance from Nat Sciver-Brunt, who scored an unbeaten 80 runs off 59 balls, Mumbai’s batting faltered as the middle and lower order failed to contribute effectively.

Sciver-Brunt’s innings consisted of 13 boundaries, some of which were crisp shots through the covers. She was ably supported by Harmanpreet Kaur, who scored a fast-paced 42 runs off 22 balls, comprising three fours and a six

The two big-hitting batswomen shared a 73-run third-wicket stand in only 40 balls, providing Mumbai Indians with the hopes of posting a fighting score. But once Harmanpreet Kaur went, the middle order collapsed.

Delhi bowlers staged an impressive comeback and picked up eight wickets for only 59 runs, and MI was skittled out for 164 runs in 19.1 overs.

Shikha Pandey’s Major Contribution to the Ball

Shikha Pandey was Delhi’s pick of the bowlers, producing a gem of performance with the ball. She picked up two wickets for a mere 14 runs. Pandey got rid of both Mumbai’s openers early in the innings: Hayley Matthews (0) and Yastika Bhatia (11). Her early strikes were instrumental in getting Mumbai on the back foot.

In spite of a solid partnership between Sciver-Brunt and Kaur, Pandey’s tight bowling during the powerplay kept MI’s run rate in check.

Another significant contribution came from Minnu Mani, who bowled economically, taking one wicket for 23 runs. However, some of the other Delhi bowlers proved expensive, allowing Mumbai to accumulate runs during the middle overs. Alice Capsey, for instance, conceded 19 runs in one over, which gave Mumbai’s middle order some breathing space.

Delhi Capitals’ Chase: A Rollercoaster Ride

In response to Mumbai’s total, Delhi Capitals had a solid start, with Shefali Verma leading the charge. She played a scintillating knock of 43 runs off 18 balls, including 7 fours and 2 sixes, which set the tone for the chase.

Delhi managed to score 60 runs in the powerplay without losing a wicket, with Shefali’s aggressive batting taking center stage. Her blistering start seemed to put the team on course for an easy victory.

But the match turned dramatic as Delhi Capitals lost four wickets for only 16 runs. Mumbai Indians staged a strong comeback, and the Delhi batters were put under pressure. Despite this loss, Nikki Prasad played a calm knock, scoring an unbeaten 27 runs to take her team to the finish line.

A Thrilling Last Over: Delhi Wins by 2 Wickets

The last over of the match became a thriller of sorts, as Delhi Capitals required 21 runs from the remaining 12 balls, with four wickets remaining. The platform was laid for an edge-of-the-seat finish.

Radha Yadav, who was batting at number nine, hit a vital six in the over, and Nikki Prasad hit a boundary next. But just when Delhi appeared to be reaching the target, Nikki was out on the fifth ball of the over. With Arundhati Yadav at the wicket, she had to hit two runs off the last ball to win the match.

In a contentious moment, a possible run-out at the striker’s end created controversy among fans and commentators. Nikki Yadav, the non-striker, seemed to have her bat outside the crease when the wicketkeeper dislodged the stumps.

The third umpire declared her not out, even though the keeper had shattered the stumps prior to Nikki’s bat being within the crease, and the bails did not dislodge.

This decision led to an uproar on social media, as many believed the run-out should have been given. Regardless, Delhi Capitals managed to win the match in a last-ball thriller, securing victory by just 2 wickets.

Sciver-Brunt’s Heroic Effort and Mumbai’s Missed Opportunities

Even with the loss, Nat Sciver-Brunt delivered a match-winning knock for Mumbai, but she failed to get support from the other batters, so she could not take her team to a higher score. The absence of partnerships throughout the match was a prime reason behind the downfall of Mumbai.

On the other hand, Harmanpreet Kaur’s aggressive innings of 42 runs was another highlight for Mumbai, but her dismissal in the 14th over was a turning point. With wickets falling from the other end, Mumbai struggled to capitalize on the strong foundation set by Sciver-Brunt and Kaur.

Controversial Ending and Delhi’s Victory

The match between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians in WPL 2025 was filled with excitement, tension, and controversy. Delhi’s chase of 164 runs was a dramatic rollercoaster, with momentum shifting back and forth between the teams. The last-ball thriller, coupled with a controversial umpire decision, left fans and players on edge.

In the end, Delhi Capitals won by 2 wickets, securing victory in a game that will be remembered for the high drama, explosive innings, and thriller finish.

ALSO READ: Top 5 Non-Opener Batsmen In T20 International Cricket

Lucknow Super Giants owned by Sanjiv Goenka acquired Manchester Originals in a race with two other IPL teams that took place on 3 February, Monday. The LSG owner also owns another T20 team Durban Super Giants of SA20 and this highly strategic move marks a significant expansion of the owner.

The deal was finalized at a 49% stake in the Manchester Originals with a price of £107 million according to Cricbuzz. The Indian business tycoon beat two other IPL franchises who were interested in the deal though the names are yet to be revealed.

“Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders were all in the initial list of interested parties who are believed to have backed out. Whether one of them has re-entered the fray is to be ascertained,” the report stated.

Daniel Gidney, the chief executive of the Originals, has previously shown interest in partnering with an IPL team, “We have been very focused on securing a great partner – ideally from the IPL – and RPSG has been our preferred bidder for some time.” he said.

Lancshire’s deal is different as they become the first host to hand over such a dominant stake. However, they are planning to sell 21% of the 51%, holding the remaining 30%. They will use these funds to build indoor schools and infrastructure to provide better facilities for the members and also lower their debts.

Who are Manchester Originals, and what does it mean to LSG

Manchester Originals is a franchise-based team that competes in the Hundred, and while they haven’t won the title yet, the men’s team were the finalists of the tournament in both seasons. Some notable players of the team are Jos Buttler who is a world-class T20 Batsman and is known for his explosive batting. Phil Salt who is an opening batsman and Sikandar Raza, an all-rounder bring unmatched expertise to the team.

Owning teams in difficult leagues allows for a wider network, which means LSG could possibly gain tips from renowned players of the Originals. This could help LSG players gain experience in different conditions and tournaments, improving their skills and adaptability for the upcoming IPL 2025.

Mumbai Indians, who have been arguably the most consistent franchise in Indian Premier League cricket, have achieved a significant coup in its plan to expand their international presence: they have joined forces with English cricket’s richest competition, The Hundred.

With a landmark acquisition, the mighty IPL franchise owns 49 percent of England’s premier side, Oval Invincibles of The Hundred.

The Strategic Alliance: Mumbai Indians Acquire a 49 Percent Stake in the Oval Invincibles

As part of a major deal that is reported to be valued at approximately Rs 647.3 crore or £60 million, Mumbai Indians acquired a 49 percent stake in the Oval Invincibles last week. With this deal, Mumbai Indians continued to strengthen their hold on overseas cricket leagues outside of the IPL.

This move cements Mumbai Indians’ commitment to growing its global footprint and tapping into new markets, and it further solidifies its dominance as a leading cricket franchise on the world stage.

A High-Profile Team in The Hundred

Oval Invincibles, an outfit that represents the Surrey County Club, was one of the most significant players in The Hundred since the start of the competition. Two titles in the 2023 and 2024 seasons- establish a solid foundation for this outfit.

Their relationship with the rich Surrey County Club has provided this outfit with huge attention and is one of the most critical contributors to The Hundred.

Mumbai Indians now look at expanding the success story by utilizing their expertise and resources to propel its future growth.

Understanding The Hundred: A New Format of Cricket:

The Hundred is a new version of cricket introduced by the ECB in 2021. It is a fast-paced version of cricket, where each team gets to play 100 balls. The league comprises eight teams, owned by a combination of county clubs and ECB-backed investments.

The ECB holds a 49% stake in all teams, while the remaining 51% is owned by the respective county clubs.

This format, being innovative and shorter in format, has attracted a huge fan base and has been a thrilling addition to the global cricket calendar. Mumbai Indians’ entry into this league is a reflection of their strategy of diversification and investment in innovative cricket formats.

A Powerful Partnership: Mumbai Indians and Surrey County Club

What makes Mumbai Indians’ entry into The Hundred all the more interesting is their association with the Surrey County Club, one of the best and most successful cricket clubs in England. This association will help Mumbai Indians co-own the Oval Invincibles with both parties sharing financial strength and expertise.

By combining forces with Surrey, Mumbai Indians can support Oval Invincibles to further greatness, not only on the field but also off it. This partnership between these two cricketing superpowers will raise the profile of The Hundred as a whole and continue to drive interest in the tournament.

Chances of Future Ownership: Mumbai Indians and Oval Invincibles

Mumbai Indians currently hold 49% of Oval Invincibles, while the ECB has provided Surrey County Club with an opportunity to sell its stake in the future. This will enable MI to have a majority stake and full control over the team’s direction, including strategic decisions and player recruitment.

For now, Surrey County Club and Mumbai Indians will share responsibilities in managing the team, meaning that there will be a collaborative approach to developing Oval Invincibles in The Hundred.

Mumbai Indians’ International Expansion Beyond the IPL

The investment in Oval Invincibles is just one part of a broader approach by Mumbai Indians in expanding its presence beyond the IPL. Over the years, MI have made forays into other international cricket leagues such as South Africa’s T20 league, and have invested in various cricketing competitions across the United States and the UAE.

With their strong brand and financial muscle, Mumbai Indians are well on their way to becoming a global leader in cricket franchise management. Their strategic investments in various cricket leagues are sure to enhance their influence in international markets and cement their position as a dominant force in the world of cricket.

A New Era of Indian Premier League Franchises Going Global

This will be the first instance of an IPL franchise venturing into The Hundred, with the trend of IPL teams expanding their presence into foreign leagues expected to gain momentum.

The association with Surrey County Club and the stake acquired in Oval Invincibles can be followed by a spate of similar agreements and investments in this very fast-changing landscape of cricket around the globe.

The Hundred is already gaining momentum among fans and will hugely benefit from association with Mumbai Indians in terms of increasing visibility and further success. In the coming years, it is likely that the brand power of Mumbai will get more attention towards The Hundred.

Consolidation of Mumbai Indians’ Position in International Cricket

MI’s decision to invest in Oval Invincibles is in line with its global expansion strategy. By investing in Surrey County Club, Mumbai Indians are not only strengthening their cricket portfolio but also asserting their dominance in the international cricket arena.

As the franchise continues to grow and diversify its investments, the future looks bright for both Mumbai Indians and The Hundred as they prepare for a new chapter in global cricket.

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Excitement is growing rapidly for the upcoming Kenya Blaster League (KBL) 2025 as the official dates for the first-ever franchise-based T20 cricket league in Kenya have been released.

The league, set to make history, has been sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), marking a great milestone for cricket in the region. Here is everything you need to know about this much-anticipated tournament.

Tournament Dates and Structure

The first season of KBL is scheduled to begin on May 30, 2025. The tournament is expected to come to a close on June 15, 2025. In total, six teams will play for 17 days, competing in a round-robin format, wherein each team will play one game against the other.

The league phase will determine the top four teams that will qualify for the semi-finals, which will culminate in the grand finale on June 15, where the champion of the first season will be crowned.

A total of 18 matches are set to feature in the competition, with 15 games scheduled in the league stage, in addition to two semi-finals and the final. Though the tournament schedule is yet to be officially confirmed, the May 30 and June 15 dates are likely to remain unchanged.

Teams and Format

Six teams representing the country’s prominent cities will participate in the first KBL. Although the team names have not been announced, the franchise-based nature of the tournament will surely add a new flavor of excitement to the local cricketing scene.

The competition will follow a single round-robin format, ensuring that each team faces every other team in the league phase. The top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals, and the winners of the semi-finals will play in the championship final.

Venue: Gymkhana Club Ground, Nairobi

The KBL 2025 is scheduled to take place at the Gymkhana Club Ground in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. This stadium has previously played host to several international matches, making it an ideal venue for this historical event in the history of Kenyan cricket.

The venue promises a live experience for viewers worldwide, as supporters from every corner of the globe arrive to catch some of the greatest cricketers in action.

Where to Watch KBL 2025

Cricket fans around the world will get to see all the action live. The KBL 2025 will be telecast on Sony Sports Network channels, and matches will also be streamed live on Sony Liv.

The league will be broadcast in more than 150 countries, making it accessible to a wide global audience and further enhancing the visibility of Kenyan cricket on the international stage.

Importance of KBL 2025

The Kenya Blaster League 2025 holds immense significance for the growth of cricket in Kenya and the African continent. As the first-ever T20 league of its kind in Kenya, it offers a unique platform for international cricket stars to compete while providing budding local talents with the opportunity to showcase their skills.

This will not only heighten the cricketing hemisphere in Kenya but also bring the nation into the limelight on the global cricket map.

The KBL 2025 will be an international T20 league held in Africa, next to South Africa’s SA20. This is a monumental step in helping develop the game in the African region. With a mix of local and foreign players, the sport is sure to receive increased attention in Kenya and around Africa.

The Future of Cricket in Kenya

The Kenya Blaster League is set to play a crucial role in transforming the country’s cricketing landscape. As the inaugural edition unfolds, the league is expected to leave a lasting impact on the sport, opening doors for more cricketing events in the country and boosting its overall profile.

For both the stars and new entrants, KBL 2025 will provide an experience like no other: being part of history. Thus, it is not to be missed. Follow for more updates, as Cricket Kenya is likely to release the official schedule in the coming weeks.

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