Riyan Parag's all-format India call up demanded shamelessly despite consistent IPL failure Indian cricket has always been a hotbed of debates and controversies, but few selection discussions have stirred as much confusion as the recent clamoring for Riyan Parag's inclusion in India's national team across formats. Despite multiple underwhelming seasons in the IPL, certain sections of fans and even some cricketing experts have continued to push for his place in the Indian squad. The question is: Does Parag truly deserve an India call-up, or is this demand driven purely by hype rather than performance? Riyan Parag's IPL Struggles: The Reality Check Ever since he burst onto the IPL scene as a promising young all-rounder for Rajasthan Royals, Riyan Parag has been seen as a potential future star. However, the numbers tell a different story. Season after season, Parag has failed to deliver impactful performances with the bat, often crumbling under pressure and showing little consistency. Know More: https://www.icecric.news/ipl-rr-vs-kkr-dream11-prediction/ His career IPL statistics paint a worrying picture. Despite playing multiple seasons, he has struggled to average even 20 with the bat while maintaining a strike rate that does not justify his role as a middle-order finisher. For a player batting in crucial overs, converting starts into match-winning knocks is an essential trait—one that Parag has yet to master. Yet, despite these repeated failures, the demand for his inclusion in the national team has been growing louder. This raises a pertinent question: On what basis should a player who has not proven himself in domestic or IPL cricket be fast-tracked into the Indian team? Social Media Hype vs. Ground Reality One of the biggest reasons behind the unwarranted hype around Riyan Parag is his social media presence and self-confidence. The young cricketer is often vocal about his ambitions and self-belief, which, while commendable, does not translate into on-field performances. A few explosive innings in domestic cricket have been magnified by his supporters as evidence of his ‘immense potential,' conveniently ignoring his long stretches of poor form in high-pressure T20 leagues. Parag has had ample opportunities in the IPL, but instead of showing marked improvement, he has continued to falter. Unlike young talents like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, or Tilak Varma—who have earned their national call-ups through sustained performances—Parag has yet to justify his hype. Selectors' Perspective: Why He Doesn't Fit in India's Plans For a player to break into the Indian team, especially in the all-rounder role, they must have at least one standout skill—either match-winning batting or bowling prowess. Unfortunately, Parag has failed to establish himself as a dominant force in either department. As a batsman: His inconsistency makes him a liability in the middle order, where India already has established performers like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Rinku Singh. As a bowler: His part-time off-spin lacks the bite and control needed to trouble international batters, making him an unreliable option. Moreover, with India's talent pipeline being stronger than ever, the selectors have the luxury of choosing from a vast pool of performers who have consistently delivered at the domestic and IPL levels. Players like Rajat Patidar, Abhishek Sharma, and Ruturaj Gaikwad have demonstrated the ability to rise to the occasion far better than Parag. The Way Forward for Parag Rather than banking on external voices demanding his selection, Riyan Parag needs to let his performances do the talking. He must improve his consistency in the IPL and establish himself as a reliable middle-order batter. Additionally, developing his bowling skills to become a true all-rounder could strengthen his case for an India call-up in the future. Know More: https://www.icecric.news/ipl-srh-vs-lsg-dream11-prediction/ Conclusion: Deserving Players Must Be Prioritized The Indian team is built on meritocracy, and selection should be based solely on performances, not social media campaigns or unwarranted backing. While Riyan Parag may still have the potential to represent India in the future, his current performances do not warrant an all-format call-up. For now, the focus should remain on players who have proven their worth through sheer performances rather than those who thrive on hype.

“Don't Get Nervous” - Virat Kohli Clears Up Any Doubts About Him Announcing His Retirement Soon Virat Kohli, a cornerstone of Indian cricket for over a decade, has addressed swirling rumors about his potential retirement, reassuring fans that he's not hanging up his boots anytime soon. The 36-year-old batting maestro, who has etched his name alongside legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, recently spoke about his future in the sport. Despite achieving nearly every accolade imaginable – from top-ranking status across formats to World Cup and Champions Trophy victories – Kohli's passion for the game remains undiminished. Champions Trophy Success Fuels Speculation His recent performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where he amassed 218 runs at an impressive average of 54.50, including a century against Pakistan, fueled speculation about a potential retirement announcement. India's triumphant, undefeated run in the tournament, coupled with the earlier T20I retirement of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, had fans on edge. While Rohit Sharma quickly clarified his intentions to continue playing, the spotlight turned to Kohli. Also Read:- https://www.icecric.news/rcb-reveal-their-new-jersey-for-ipl-2025/ Kohli's Perspective: Joy Over Achievements Speaking at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit powered by Leaders, Kohli revealed his current mindset. "Today, I am not playing for achievements. It pretty much comes down to the pure joy of playing," he stated. "As long as that feeling is intact, I will continue playing. I have to be honest about that with myself." He also shared a valuable piece of advice from former coach Rahul Dravid: "He said one always has to stay in touch with oneself to figure out where one is placed in life." And then, with a clear and direct message, Kohli put the retirement rumors to rest: "Don't get nervous; I am not making any announcements. As of now, everything seems fine." Eyes on the IPL 2025 Prize The only major title eluding Kohli is the Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy. A loyal member of Royal Challengers Bengaluru since the inaugural 2008 season, he stands as the league's highest run-scorer. Now, his focus shifts to IPL 2025, where he aims to finally clinch the coveted title. RCB's campaign kicks off on March 22nd against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, promising an electrifying start to the tournament. Fans can breathe a sigh of relief – Virat Kohli's journey in cricket is far from over. Also Read:-https://www.icecric.news/mi-to-miss-3-stars-at-the-start-of-ipl-2025/

Aakash Chopra Compares RCB's Disappointing WPL 2025 Season To The Recent Woeful Performances Of The Pakistan Cricket Team Aakash Chopra, former Indian cricketer and commentator, has drawn attention to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) recent downturn in the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025, comparing their home ground struggles to the Pakistan Men's Cricket Team's recent performances. RCB, the defending WPL champions, began their campaign strongly, securing two consecutive victories. However, their momentum faltered upon returning to their home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where they suffered three consecutive losses. These defeats, including a Super Over loss to UP Warriorz and a surprising defeat to the bottom-placed Gujarat Giants, have raised concerns about the team's consistency. Also Read:- https://www.icecric.news/highest-scores-by-indian-batsmen-in-ipl/ Chopra highlighted RCB's home ground woes in a recent YouTube video, stating, "RCB are the defending champions. They played extremely well last year and lifted the trophy. They didn't play well the year before that. They started the tournament very well this year. They chased 200. They were outstanding. However, then the Vadodara leg ended, they reached the RCB ground, and they haven't won a single match since.” He then drew a comparison with the Pakistan Cricket Team, who recently faced similar difficulties in their home tournament, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. "Their situation is like Pakistan. Their home doesn't suit them, and this happens with their men's team as well," Chopra observed. Chopra also acknowledged the unwavering support of RCB's fans, despite the team's recent struggles. "The entire ground is completely filled in both their men's and women's matches. Harmanpreet (Kaur) had to put her fingers in her ears as the crowd was so loud in the RCB-MI match. They win my heart, as this is loyalty. There is no give and take in that relationship,” he said, praising the fans' dedication. With RCB currently positioned third on the points table, their upcoming match against the Delhi Capitals, a rematch of the 2024 final, is crucial for their playoff aspirations. The outcome of this match will likely determine whether RCB can overcome their recent slump and regain their championship form. Also Read:- https://www.icecric.news/ms-dhoni-on-how-ipl-helped-him-as-captain/

ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025: Full schedule and match timings announced The anticipation is building! The ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 is on the horizon, and the recently announced full schedule and match timings have sent a wave of excitement through the global women's cricket community. This tournament is a crucial stepping stone for teams aspiring to compete in the prestigious ICC Women's Cricket World Cup, and the stakes couldn't be higher. The Road to Glory: What to Expect from the Qualifiers The Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, determination, and passion. Teams from around the world will battle it out for coveted spots in the main event, and every match will be a nail-biting encounter. This tournament is not just about cricket; it's about dreams, aspirations, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The women's cricket schedule has been highly anticipated by fans across the globe, and the announcement has delivered on the hype. Decoding the Schedule: Key Dates and Match Timings The ICC has meticulously crafted a schedule that ensures a fair and competitive tournament. The matches are spread across multiple venues, providing fans with ample opportunities to witness the action firsthand. The match timings have been carefully chosen to accommodate global audiences, ensuring that fans from all time zones can catch the live action. For die-hard fans of women's cricket news, the release of the schedule is a major event. Now, those fans can plan their calendars and get ready to support their favorite teams. The Teams to Watch: A Battle of Titans The Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 will feature a mix of established teams and rising stars. Each team will bring its unique strengths and strategies to the table, making for a captivating contest. Expect to see some fierce rivalries and unforgettable performances. Teams that are considered underdogs, will have a chance to prove themselves, and potentially upend the established order. This is a chance for those teams to make cricket world cup qualification a reality. Also Read:- https://www.icecric.news/ipl-srh-vs-rr-dream11-prediction/ Venues and Atmosphere: Where the Action Unfolds The selected venues for the qualifiers will play a crucial role in creating an electrifying atmosphere. These stadiums will be buzzing with energy, as fans cheer on their favorite teams. The vibrant atmosphere will add an extra layer of excitement to the matches, making them even more memorable. Fan Engagement: A Global Celebration of Women's Cricket The Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 is not just a tournament; it's a global celebration of women's cricket. The ICC is committed to engaging fans from all corners of the world, through various initiatives and platforms. 1 Social media will play a key role in connecting fans with the action, providing live updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content. The women's cricket live score will be available online, for fans unable to attend the matches in person. The Importance of the Qualifiers: Building the Future of Women's Cricket The qualifiers are crucial for the development of women's cricket. They provide a platform for emerging teams to showcase their talent and gain valuable experience. The tournament also helps to raise the profile of women's cricket, inspiring young girls to take up the sport. Impact on Women's Cricket: A Growing Movement The ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 will contribute to the ongoing growth of women's cricket. The tournament will attract media attention and generate public interest, helping to raise awareness of the sport. This increased visibility will lead to greater investment in women's cricket, paving the way for a brighter future. Planning Your Experience: Tips for Fans For fans planning to attend the matches, it's essential to book tickets in advance. The demand for tickets is expected to be high, so early booking is recommended. Fans should also familiarize themselves with the venue and match timings to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. For those watching from home, make sure to check your local sports news listings for broadcast times. The Countdown is On: Get Ready for the Action! The ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 is just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable. With the full schedule and match timings announced, fans can now start planning their experience. This tournament promises to be a celebration of women's cricket, showcasing the best talent and passion from around the world. Get ready to witness history in the making! Also Read:- https://www.icecric.news/ipl-csk-vs-mi-dream11-prediction/

Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja out of IND vs NZ match; replacements selected The roar of the cricket stadium is about to be met with a hushed anticipation as news breaks of two pivotal absences in the upcoming India vs. New Zealand match. Mohammed Shami, the pace spearhead, and Ravindra Jadeja, the all-rounder maestro, are both sidelined due to injuries, sending ripples of concern and speculation through the passionate fan base. But as the saying goes, "the show must go on," and the selectors have swiftly named their replacements, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter. The Injury Blow: A Double Whammy for Team India The news of Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja's absence has undoubtedly dealt a significant blow to the Indian team's aspirations. Shami, with his searing pace and ability to extract movement, has been a linchpin of the bowling attack. His knack for taking crucial wickets, especially in pressure situations, makes him an irreplaceable asset. Similarly, Ravindra Jadeja's all-round prowess brings invaluable balance to the team. His left-arm spin, combined with his dynamic batting and electric fielding, makes him a match-winner in his own right. Losing both players in a single match is a challenge that tests the depth and resilience of any squad. The Nature of the Injuries: What We Know So Far While the specifics of the injuries are still unfolding, it's understood that Mohammed Shami is dealing with a minor ankle issue, and Ravindra Jadeja has sustained a mild hamstring strain. The team management has emphasized that the injuries are not serious and that both players are expected to recover in time for subsequent matches. However, their absence from this particular clash is unavoidable. In the world of sports, injuries are an unfortunate reality. The demanding schedule, coupled with the intensity of international cricket, takes a toll on players' bodies. The focus now shifts to ensuring a swift and complete recovery for both Shami and Jadeja. Also Read:- https://www.icecric.news/india-cricket-schedule-2025-time-table/ The Replacements: Jaydev Unadkat and Shardul Thakur Step Up In response to the injury crisis, the selectors have turned to experienced campaigners Jaydev Unadkat and Shardul Thakur. Both players bring a wealth of domestic and international experience, and their inclusion adds depth and versatility to the squad. Jaydev Unadkat, known for his left-arm swing and variations, offers a different dimension to the bowling attack. His ability to extract movement with the new ball and his experience in domestic cricket make him a valuable addition. Shardul Thakur, the versatile all-rounder, provides a similar balance to the team that Jadeja offers. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball, coupled with his knack for taking wickets at crucial junctures, makes him a key player. Thakur's experience in international matches will also be invaluable. Strategic Implications: How Will India Adapt? The absence of Shami and Jadeja necessitates a strategic reshuffle for the Indian team. The bowling attack will need to adapt to the new dynamics, with other bowlers stepping up to fill the void. The batting order may also see some adjustments, with players taking on added responsibility. The team management will need to carefully assess the conditions and formulate a plan that maximizes the strengths of the available players. The captain's role will be crucial in motivating the team and ensuring that they maintain their focus and intensity. New Zealand's Perspective: An Opportunity or a Challenge? From New Zealand's perspective, the absence of two key Indian players presents both an opportunity and a challenge. While it undoubtedly weakens the Indian team, it also means that New Zealand will be facing a relatively unknown bowling attack. The New Zealand batsmen will need to adjust their strategies and be prepared to face the new bowlers with caution. The New Zealand bowling attack will also see this as a chance to put extra pressure on an Indian batting order that may be feeling the pressure of missing two key players. Conclusion: An Intriguing Clash Awaits The absence of Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja has added an unexpected twist to the India vs. New Zealand match. The replacements, Jaydev Unadkat and Shardul Thakur, bring their own strengths and experiences to the team. The stage is set for an intriguing clash, one that will test the depth, resilience, and adaptability of both teams. The cricket world will be watching with keen interest as these two formidable sides battle it out on the field. This match will indeed be one to remember. Also Read:- https://www.icecric.news/sa20-2025-schedule-and-fixtures/