DRS August 4: India won’t travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy, Ishan Kishan returns & Pant in Dilli 6

August 3 (Saturday) was a quite day for cricket fans as nothing major transpired. India and Sri Lanka took a much-needed rest after a dramatic tied first ODI in Colombo. The series, however, will be on the line today (August 4) as well, with India aiming to come all guns blazing this time. Apart from this, a couple of stories popped up, one major regarding the Champions Trophy. Meanwhile, Ishan Kishan was amongst the news as well, alongside Rishabh Pant, Harshit Rana and Ishant Sharma as well, who are set to feature in Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2024.

The ICC recently unveiled a hefty budget (INR 578 crore) for the 2025 Champions Trophy. A significant portion was earmarked for potential venue changes, a clear indication that India’s participation in Pakistan was uncertain. While the PCB officially denied this, the inclusion of additional funds for hosting matches outside Pakistan confirmed longstanding speculations. The UAE was a frontrunner to co-host the tournament, mirroring the Asia Cup 2023 arrangement where India’s refusal to travel resulted in a change of venue.

Ishan Kishan set to return?

Ishan Kishan is set to return to domestic cricket. After opting for a break and losing his central contract from BCCI, he has agreed to play for Jharkhand in the upcoming domestic season. The state association is even considering him for captaincy. Influenced by advice from well-wishers and selectors, Kishan’s decision marks a step towards an India comeback. While unlikely for the Duleep Trophy, consistent domestic performances could pave his way back to the national team, similar to Shreyas Iyer’s.

Rishabh Pant confirmed to play in DPL 2024

Rishabh Pant and Ishant Sharma were the star picks at the Delhi Premier League (DPL) player draft on Friday. Over 270 Delhi players were selected for the six DPL teams. Purani Dilli 6 secured Pant, Ishant, and Lalit Yadav. North Delhi Strikers chose Harshit Rana and Suyash Sharma. Central Delhi Kings signed Yash Dhull, East Delhi Riders picked Anuj Rawat and Simarjeet Singh, and South Delhi Superstars added Ayush Badoni. Mayank Yadav, however, was the major absentee, apparently due to his injury. Shweta Sehrawat was the top women’s pick, joining South Delhi Superstars.

Manu Bhaker misses 3rd medal by a whisker

Golden girl of India, Manu Bhaker’s Olympic dream took a heartbreaking turn in Paris. Despite being a two-time bronze medalist, she narrowly missed a third, finishing fourth in the 25m pistol final. Overwhelmed by nerves, she couldn’t secure a podium finish. Disappointed but determined, Bhaker has already set her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Big blow to Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka’s ODI campaign against India took a severe hit with the news of Wanindu Hasaranga’s injury. The star all-rounder, who was instrumental in the first ODI, is ruled out of the series. This adds to Sri Lanka’s woes, as they were already missing key pacers. Jeffrey Vandersay is likely to replace him in the Playing XI.

Historic NCA soon?

The BCCI is set to open a new, world-class National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. The academy will feature three playing grounds, 45 practice pitches, indoor training facilities, an Olympic-size pool, and advanced sports science equipment. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah announced the upcoming opening, highlighting the facility’s role in elevating Indian cricket standards.