Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) protested the absence of its representative during the Champions Trophy 2025 prize ceremony after India's victory over New Zealand. PCB Chief Executive Sumair Ahmad Syed was present in Dubai but was not included in the presentation. Former cricketer Kamran Akmal criticized Pakistan’s cricket, saying, "We don’t deserve to be there." PCB has sought an explanation from the International Cricket Council (ICC), arguing the governing body should have inquired about a replacement for its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi. Reports suggest PCB failed to formally notify ICC about Naqvi’s absence.

Former India all-rounder Syed Abid Ali passed away at 83. He played 29 Tests and 5 ODIs, debuting in 1967. A brilliant fielder, he took 47 Test wickets and scored 1,018 runs. Notably, he opened both batting and bowling in 7 Tests. Sunil Gavaskar called him a "lion-hearted cricketer" who played selflessly. Abid also featured in the inaugural ODI World Cup, scoring 70 in his last game. He took 397 first-class wickets and amassed 8,732 runs. Known for his impeccable manners and sharp cricketing mind, he leaves behind a lasting legacy in Indian cricket.

Two young Indians have been selected as finalists for the prestigious 2025 Commonwealth Youth Awards, which recognize outstanding contributions by young leaders across the 56 Commonwealth nations. These awards celebrate individuals aged 15-29 who drive positive change in areas like climate action, education, and social development. The finalists were chosen for their impactful initiatives addressing critical global challenges. The winners will be announced later in 2025, with cash prizes and grants awarded to support their projects. This recognition highlights India’s growing influence in youth-led innovation and social transformation on a global platform.

Gautam Gambhir is set to become the first Team India head coach to travel with the India A squad for an overseas tour. Unlike predecessors Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri, Gambhir wants firsthand insight into India's talent pool ahead of the England tour. A BCCI source revealed, “Gambhir is keen on reviving India A tours and analyzing young players.” His push for wildcard selections helped India win the ICC Champions Trophy, and he aims to strengthen the red-ball team. This move signals a shift in India’s coaching approach, with greater emphasis on developing emerging talent.

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar dismissed allegations that India had an "unfair advantage" in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 by playing all matches in Dubai. Critics argued India benefited from avoiding travel, but Gavaskar countered that the ICC pre-decided the venue arrangement. He questioned why England, which hosted multiple ICC tournaments, hadn't won until 2019. Praising India’s balanced squad, Gavaskar credited Rohit Sharma’s leadership for securing the title. Rohit also denied retirement speculations, stating he hadn’t made any decision yet.

KL Rahul, acquired by Delhi Capitals (DC) for ₹14 crore in the IPL 2025 auction, has declined the team's captaincy offer. Expressing a desire to focus solely on his batting, Rahul conveyed his wish for "love and respect" from the franchise. This decision paves the way for all-rounder Axar Patel to potentially lead DC in the upcoming season. Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik hinted at this development, stating, "Heard he's going to be the Delhi Capitals captain as well." Axar, associated with DC since 2019 and retained for ₹16.5 crore ahead of the mega auction, has shown leadership potential, recently serving as India's vice-captain in the T20I series against England.

India's triumph in the ICC Champions Trophy was significantly bolstered by the strategic inclusion of mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy. Initially sidelined, Chakravarthy's entry into the squad compensated for the absence of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. He made an immediate impact, notably securing a five-wicket haul against New Zealand in the group stages. His unique bowling style and mental resilience transformed him into captain Rohit Sharma's reliable weapon during critical junctures. Chakravarthy concluded the tournament as India's joint-highest wicket-taker, amassing nine wickets in just three matches. This performance underscored his evolution into India's X-factor, validating the team management's calculated decision to introduce him at a pivotal moment.

Former Pakistan cricket captain Wasim Akram expressed astonishment over the absence of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final presentation ceremony. Despite Pakistan being the official host, no PCB representatives appeared on stage as ICC chairman Jay Shah awarded the trophy to India's captain, Rohit Sharma. Akram, speaking on the 'Dressing Room' show, noted that while PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was unwell, other officials like COO Sumair Ahmad Syed were present at the venue but not on stage. He emphasized the importance of Pakistani representation, stating, "It definitely looked odd... somebody should've been there." Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar also voiced his disappointment over the lack of PCB presence during the ceremony.

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya has promptly joined his team's camp following India's victory in the 2025 Champions Trophy against New Zealand on March 9. The MI official X account shared his arrival on March 11, captioning a photo: "The Gun has arrived." Pandya, who took over MI's captaincy from Rohit Sharma after moving from Gujarat Titans, faced a challenging 2024 season, with MI finishing last, securing only four wins in 14 matches. Determined to reverse the team's fortunes, Pandya aims to lead MI to their sixth title in the upcoming IPL season, which begins on March 22. MI's first match is scheduled against Chennai Super Kings on March 23 in Chennai.

KL Rahul has emerged as a pivotal figure in India's cricketing success, particularly during the 2023 ODI World Cup. Transitioning into the wicket-keeper role after Rishabh Pant's accident, Rahul has excelled, securing 16 dismissals, 15 catches and one stumping second only to South Africa's Quinton de Kock. His astute judgment in utilizing the Decision Review System (DRS) has further solidified his importance, earning the trust of captain Rohit Sharma. With the bat, Rahul has amassed 386 runs in nine innings, averaging 77.20 and striking at 98.72. Notably, his unbeaten 97 against Australia rescued India from a precarious 2 for 3, showcasing his resilience and skill under pressure.