India were bundled out for 307 runs on Day 3 of the fourth Test match in Ranchi. Australia defeated New Zealand in the 3rd T20I and clinched the series by a margin of 3-0. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore began their WPL season 2 campaign with a win over UP Warriorz.
Let's have a look at the top 10 trending sports news on February 25's sports roundup:
Dhruv Jurel takes India's total to 307
Thanks to Dhruv Jurel's outstanding performance, India wrapped up their first innings with a total of 307, leaving England with a lead of just 46 runs - a margin that appeared set to be much more substantial before Jurel made his mark.
Dhruv Jurel bails out India in Ranchi with maiden half-century
Dhruv Jurel's assertive approach on the field not only caught England off guard but also drastically narrowed the gap, demonstrating a mix of strategic intelligence and bold play. Adorned with six boundaries and four maximums, Jurel's innings concluded with an impressive score of 90 from 149 deliveries, halted by a remarkable ball from Tom Hartley.
Shoaib Bashir picks maiden 5-wicket haul
On the third day of the fourth Test in Ranchi, Shoaib Bashir clinched his first-ever five-wicket haul, propelling England into a dominant position against India. With his mesmerizing off-spin, Bashir tore through the Indian batting order, tipping the balance towards England. He claimed the scalps of Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Dhruv Jurel, significantly hampering India's progress on Day 2.
Jack Leach to undergo knee surgery
England's cricket team faces a significant setback as their key spinner Jack Leach is sidelined due to a knee injury requiring surgery. The unfortunate injury occurred during the first Test against India in Hyderabad, where despite the pain, Leach heroically bowled 36 overs and secured two wickets, contributing to England's narrow victory by 28 runs.
Australia whitewash New Zealand
Heading into the 2024 T20 World Cup, Australia's confidence will be sky-high following their 3-0 series victory over New Zealand in the T20I series. The Australians secured the sweep by triumphing over the Black Caps with a 27-run victory (DLS method) in the third match held at Auckland's Eden Park.
RCB open WPL season 2 campaign with a win
Under the leadership of Smriti Mandhana, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) kicked off their Women's Premier League (WPL) 2024 campaign with a thrilling two-run win against UP Warriorz at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium on February 24. Sobhana Asha's crucial five-wicket haul was pivotal in disrupting UP Warriorz's rhythm, securing a match-winning performance. Additionally, Richa Ghosh and Sabbhineni Meghana contributed significantly to RCB's victory with their outstanding half-centuries.
Haris Rauf suffers a shoulder injury
During a crucial match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 against the Karachi Kings on Saturday at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, Haris Rauf, the fast bowler for Lahore Qalandars, suffered a worrying shoulder injury, posing a significant setback for his team and possibly affecting the Pakistan national team as well.
Wanindu Hasaranga suspended for 2 matches
In a notable event within the cricket community, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has handed a two-match ban to Sri Lanka's T20I captain, Wanindu Hasaranga, following a fiery exchange with an umpire during a T20I match against Afghanistan. The altercation occurred in Dambulla on February 21, with the ICC announcing the disciplinary measure on February 24.
Rajasthan Royals' home stadium in Jaipur sealed off
A month prior to its role as a host venue for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, home ground of the Rajasthan Royals (RR), has been shut down by the Rajasthan Sports Council. The closure comes as a result of the state cricket association's inability to fulfill its responsibilities, notably the clearance of financial dues.
Renowned cameraman passes away
In a sorrowful turn of events, esteemed sports cameraman Kamalanadimuthu Thiruvalluvan, widely known as Thiru, passed away on the morning of February 24. Thiruvalluvan had been in Bengaluru just the night before, on February 23, capturing the inaugural match of WPL 2024 between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
PSL: Massive injury scare for Pakistan as match-winner fast bowler injures bowling shoulder 3 months before T20 World Cup; watch video here
Former RCB star and No.2 ranked T20I bowler banned for verbally abusing umpire in live match; KKR batter also punished; know details here
