Clash of Clans—that is how cricket fans are labeling Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, game 46 of IPL 2025. Along with Gujarat Titans, these two teams also are the top favorites to clinch a playoff spot with 12 points: Delhi Capitals currently at number 2 and RCB at the third place of the ladder. Former Indian cricketer and cricket pundit at present, Aakash Chopra said, "This could be the game of the tournament."

Delhi Capitals will get the home ground advantage as the match is set to be held at Arun Jaitley Stadium. But when Virat Kohli is on the pitch, the atmosphere of the gallery can change drastically. Chopra has shown little concern over Delhi Capitals tactical decisions. The Axar Patel-led side has fielded their team with fewer overseas players; the DC XI mostly relies on Indian talent.

Faf du Plessis is with the squad, and Jake Fraser-McGurk is also there, but DC has planned differently; they put Karun Nair as an opener with Abishek Porel. Nair's IPL 2025 debut innings was an absolute banger; his presence in the lineup provides DC an extra edge. Jake Fraser-McGurk's past IPL record is undoubtedly good, but this time he was too far from his best. 

Read More: IPL 2025: 3 key predictions made by AI on DC vs RCB clash today

"I feel DC's batting is working thus far but will get stuck someday for sure. They have been doing a decent job, but I feel something might get stuck. It may be this game, or it might just be my thinking, and it might never happen. The home team has gone towards all made in India, although they finally decided to play Dushmantha Chameera. However, they are still playing with only three overseas—(Tristan) Stubbs, (Mitchell) Starc, and Dushmantha Chameera. I still don't know what the news is about Faf du Plessis. It doesn't seem like they wish to play Jake Fraser-McGurk currently. So what this team will do, I have no idea. Abishek Porel and Karun Nair might only be seen opening," Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

In terms of the latest performances, DC and RCB are both on the same level; in the last 5 matches, both of the teams won 3 and lost 2. In game 24, IPL 2025, at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Patel's Delhi Capitals proved better than Rajat Patidar's RCB by 6 wickets.

Chopra slightly optimistic about RCB 

But it seems like Chopra was not bothered by the stats and numbers; he solely believed in how the teams were performing in the field. From his point of view, the commentator has said that RCB may have played better than DC in recent times. 

"In whose favor are the scales tilted? Since they are on the road, I will say the scales are tilted towards RCB. However, this could be the game of the tournament. This game will be enjoyable," Chopra said.

On Tuesday afternoon, a terrible terror attack took place in Pahalgam, a popular tourist spot in South Kashmir. Armed terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists in the Baisaran valley, also known as "mini Switzerland" because of its green meadows and scenic beauty. The attack killed several people and injured at least 20 others. 

According to reports, the shooting started around 3 PM when the attackers came down from the nearby mountains and began firing. A video from the area shows people lying injured on the ground, while others were crying and searching for family members. Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the number of people killed is still being confirmed. He also said that this attack is one of the worst in recent years against civilians.

Leaders Across India Strongly Condemn the Attack

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said he was deeply saddened by the attack. He posted on X, saying, "Those involved in this act will not be spared." He also said he had spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held a meeting with top security officials. Shah is expected to travel to Srinagar to review the situation closely. A meeting was also held at his home in Delhi, attended by senior officials, including the heads of the Intelligence Bureau, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police.

ALSO SEE: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Mukesh Kumar's pin-point yorker that destabilized LSG batting structure

Many political leaders strongly condemned the attack. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called it an “act of cowardice” and said his prayers are with the victims. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the government must take responsibility and take strong steps to stop such violence in the future. Sajad Lone, leader of J&K People's Conference, said the terrorists are enemies of Kashmir’s future. “They don’t want tourists to come here. They want to destroy our peace and economy,” he said. PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the violence and said such acts must be rejected by all.

Indian Cricket Community Stands United Against Terrorism

This tragic attack has hurt not just the families of the victims but also the people of Kashmir, who depend on tourism for their income. Just when Kashmir was beginning to see more visitors, this attack has brought fear and pain again. The country now waits for strong action and justice for those who lost their lives in this cruel act of terror.

Indian cricketers also expressed their sorrow. Shubman Gill posted, “Heartbreaking to hear about the attack in Pahalgam. My prayers are with the victims and their families.” Gautam Gambhir wrote, “Those responsible will pay. India will strike. #Pahalgam.”

Heartbreaking to hear about the attack in Pahalgam. My prayers are with the victims and their families. Violence like this has no place in our country.

— Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) April 22, 2025

Targeting innocent tourists is an act of absolute cowardice. Heart goes out to all the victims and their families. Just when it should’ve been the start of a beautiful summer in paradise. Hope the perpetrators are dealt with in the severest manner .. #PahalgamAttack

— Jatin Sapru (@jatinsapru) April 22, 2025

Shocked and angry to hear what happened in Kashmir today. While those responsible will be punished, and I’m sure they will, right now there’s a numb disbelief at the terrible acts and the manner in which it all happened. Praying for the souls of those who lost their lives in…

— parthiv patel (@parthiv9) April 22, 2025

Unimaginable atrocity in Pahalgam.
Heart goes out to the victims and their families. 🕉️ शान्ति।
Hope the perpetrators (and their sympathisers) are identified, caught and given the punishment they deserve.

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) April 22, 2025

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) endured yet another tough loss in IPL 2025, falling to the Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets in Match 38 on Sunday, April 20. CSK posted a below-par 176/5 in their innings, which was chased down with ease by MI in just 15.4 overs. The loss further dims CSK's hopes of a playoff qualification this season.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reflected on the game and CSK’s current strategy in a video on his YouTube channel. He noted that the team is clearly shifting focus toward building for the future, especially with several young names in the lineup. Chopra pointed out that MS Dhoni himself admitted after the match that CSK is looking to build a strong combination for next season, suggesting that even the legendary captain has accepted that a deep run this year looks unlikely.

“When I look at it from Chennai’s perspective, they have started going young. That change is visible. They’re assembling a lot of 20-year-old kids,” said Chopra. Names like Ayush Mhatre, Shaik Rasheed, Noor Ahmad, and Pathirana were among those highlighted as key prospects. Chopra added that Dhoni has resigned to the fate that there is nothing happening with CSK this season and is now focusing on the long-term rebuild.

Also read: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Punjab Kings youngster gets jersey signed by both MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli

Also read: LSG VS DC : Match 40 Weather and Pitch Report – IPL 2025

Young Talent Shines Despite Loss

Among the few bright spots for CSK was 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre, who impressed with a quickfire 32 off just 15 balls. Chopra praised the youngster’s stroke play and composure, calling him a “proper batter.” Ravindra Jadeja (53*) and Shivam Dube (50) also chipped in with fifties, but the total was never enough to trouble the in-form Mumbai side.

As CSK turns its focus toward nurturing its youth and restructuring its core, fans may need to temper expectations for this season—but the seeds of a new era could already be taking root.

Akash Chopra has predicted something big about ongoing IPL 2025, after Mumbai Indians (MI) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) clash at Wankhede Stadium yesterday (April 17). SRH, after batting first found themselves in a tight situation with only 162 runs on board.

At Wankhede, Mumbai Indians home ground, it was an unusual sight, the ball came slightly slower to the bat, which made batsmen difficult to hit hard. The hosting team witnessed the same after SRH innings. With the sluggish nature of the wicket, SRH had a good chance to dominate over MI batters. But their bowlers are not at their peak like their batters. 

Former cricketer Akash Chopra feels that the season has already gone for Sunrisers Hyderabad. "It pains my heart, but I feel this season is gone for them. This match was extremely important. They will host MI after this, and then they have a match against CSK. They may win a few, but now I feel this team has gone far away from qualification. At times, just the one match takes you far away, and I think Hyderabad are unlikely to qualify", Chopra said his from his YouTube channel. 

Read More: What will happen if RCB vs PBKS IPL 2025 match is abandoned due to rain?

He blamed both batter and bowlers of SRH for their lackluster performance this season. Despite having a powerful batting unit, the opening pair of Hyderabad was batting with a slow pace in Wankhede, which annoys Akash. According to him, "both openers didn't get out as well, they had a 50-run opening partnership, but they had never played slower than this. They could have gotten out two or three times, catches were dropped, and a guy's (Karn Sharma) webbing got torn, but the bat was not striking the ball," Chopra observed."

Ishan Kishan and NK Reddy made Chopra dishearted 

The former cricketer, now commentator, criticized Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ishan Kishan openly by saying, "Nitish Kumar Reddy hasn't really arrived yet. Ishan Kishan scored a hundred in the first match, but nothing after that. The team underperformed a little this time. It's not been a good story."

Ishan Kishan started his IPL 2025 journey with an eye-catching century, and on the other hand, NK Reddy piled up 131 runs at an average of 21.83 in six innings in the ongoing IPL season. 

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were handed a disappointing 25-run loss by the Delhi Capitals (DC) in their IPL 2025 encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Needing 184, CSK's batting was as lackluster as the home crowd had feared. Wickets fell in quick succession, and although MS Dhoni attempted to steady the ship, his defensive game raised eyebrows as the asking rate kept climbing out of their reach.

Citing this former India cricketer and commentator, Aakash Chopra did not hesitate to criticize CSK's approach in the chase. In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra asked if the team truly tried to go for the target after the pressure started mounting. He was displeased, especially with Dhoni, and noted that singles and defensive shots were not enough when the game demanded aggressive strokeplay. His comments concentrated on the lack of intent from a team that is famous for their aggressive style of cricket. Chopra's rant particularly singled out Dhoni's 30 off 26 balls as too conservative for a finisher of his legendary stature. For the cricketer-turned-commentator, the top-order collapse was a concern, but more was expected of Dhoni to turn the game around in a late turnabout. He reminded people that Dhoni's reputation as the "greatest finisher of all time" does come with some expectations, and in this case, the approach left many, including himself, perplexed.

ALSO READ:IPL 2025 MI vs RCB : Player battles to watch out

Did you even try to chase?: Aakash Chopra

Chopra's comment has stirred eyebrows among observers as well as fans. Some agree with him, believing that CSK missed their opportunity by not being so aggressive in the pursuit. They contend that Dhoni, with his huge experience, had the choice of taking more strategic risks to keep scoring and piling pressure on the opposition.

"Chennai, what did you do? When the run chase started, wickets were falling as though it was a joke. I have not seen a more insipid performance than this from you. You probably thought after the 10th over that you didn't want to chase. Did you even try to chase? The required run rate was mounting, and you were defending and taking singles," the former India opener said.

Meanwhile, there are those Dhoni supporters who believe the criticism is not warranted, noting that the platform was already wobbly prior to Dhoni's entry. With wickets falling at frequent intervals, they believe Dhoni had no option other than to play cautiously. Whatever, Chopra's remarks have certainly given fire to the controversy surrounding CSK strategy and Dhoni's role in this season of IPL.

Shreyas Iyer’s recent IPL innings set an example of selflessness in T20 cricket. He was one hit away from hitting his first IPL century, but he chose not to keep the strike and instead concentrated on what was better for the team. Iyer's decision illustrates the attitude of T20 cricket: get as many runs as possible without caring about putting personal goals.

Aakash Chopra brought out what Iyer did differently, contrasting it with how players in the modern game have used the opportunity of getting set to change the course of the game for themselves. The lesson, as always, in a short, fast-paced version of the game like T20 is that it is always better to look out for the bigger picture. The importance of individual achievement should come after the team’s.

Iyer was only one hit away from his first IPL century. Didn’t get the strike thereafter. Didn’t ask for it either. And it’s set a nice example for everyone.
T20 cricket is all about maximising every ball…whoever is hitting, keeps hitting. No personal milestones are bigger than…

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) March 26, 2025

Also Read: Yuzi and Dhanashree’s divorce: The reason behind their separation!

The game as such has witnessed the sad picture of players in the chases, slowing down in an attempt to reach set milestones, and there are so many attempts made, but what came out was the best team-oriented result. Iyer’s innings is strikingly typical and doesn’t reflect that simplistic ethos of cricket, where every run scored is deemed to be better than a personal milestone. His decision to not engage in strike farming indicates the mindset of the wearer of the modern game: wider game picture thinking.

Chopra didn’t name names; however, it sparked a whole new debate about younger players, most especially more experienced players who the statement was about, and whether the whole “farming the strike” debate is really about Kohli and other senior players.

Also Read: IPL 2025: RR vs KKR Dream11 Prediction 6th Match Fantasy Cricket Tips, Probable Playing XI

Regardless of comparisons, Iyer’s act of putting the team first is a commendable example for upcoming cricketers. It reinforces that while centuries are celebrated, true greatness lies in playing selfless cricket that benefits the entire team.

IPL tournament is just 5 days ago and the excitement for it is at its peak. Champions Kolkata Knight Riders will start their campgain against Rcb in the season opener in Kolkata. They were the IPL champions of past edition and in this edition they are entering as favorite but there is a change in this edition. Last year Kolkata was captained by Shreyas Iyer who has left the franchise and bought by Punjab Kings for 26.5 crores. 

Due to his absence Kolkata had bought experienced Ajinkya Rahane for 1.5 crores and made him the captain of the team. Rahane being the captain of test and odi side and even led teams in IPL so he has the vast experience in captaincy and team handling but there comes Aakash Chopra former cricketer and analyst with his intresting questions. 

Read More: Ajinkya Rahane To Create History By Leading KKR

Aakash reflects Batter Rahane Has an Issue

Aakash Chopra former cricketer has congratulated team Kolkata for buying Rahane and he hailed him for his services which he had provided to the team. But he has the problem why Rahane has been made the captain of the team where it reflects his batting position. Its decimated that Rahane has been a great team man but it conflicts it when he becomes the captain of the team. Even Venky Mysore has already answered the questions for this. 

It was stated they holded Venkatesh Iyer for 23 crore and he has the captaincy skills to but in regards it was stated that due to Rahane sheild Venkatesh will learn how things goes on as Vice captain of the team. You have made him the captain now what will be his batting position asks the vetren commentator. Its absolutely fine but what will be the position of him you can only play him at top. 

Read More: Saurav Ganguly Promo For Netflix Series Khakee Steals The Show

Will KKR Cope With This Issue

Rahane at the top is really effective and when he comes down the order it makes no sense how he replicate the job of a finisher or a middle batsman, earlier you had Shreyas Iyer who was in form who won SMAT and Ranji and has experience in middle order but now you face a problem you can't let your captain deep down and it will be a added pressure on him which may lead into blunder in decision. 

Though Venkatesh may have been there for his assistance wouldn't you have believed in him and made him the captain who would been assisted by Rahane as vice-captain whereas Iyer would have, also been familiar with the pressure of the crowd and important matches? Yet Rahane too has changed a lot it's not the old Rahane who used to take time and time his shots from 2023 the striking abilities have changed and he possesses a great average in opening and number 3 so it won't be disimpacted much disclosed by the former cricketer but still it's the risk that the franchise has taken. 

Cricket expert and ex-Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra recently chose his combined India-Pakistan XI. But his choice left many fans stunned, as all eleven members of his team were Indians. No Pakistani cricketer was included in his team .

Aakash Chopra’s Combined XI:

• Shubman Gill (India)
• Rohit Sharma (C) (India)
• Virat Kohli (India)
• Shreyas Iyer (India)
• KL Rahul (India)
• Axar Patel (India)
• Hardik Pandya (India)
• Ravindra Jadeja (India)
• Kuldeep Yadav (India)
• Mohammed Shami (India)
• Harshit Rana (India

Why Not Pakistan Players?
Most cricket enthusiasts anticipated the inclusion of best Pakistani players such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan in the team. Chopra, however, considered recent performances and current form while selecting his team.

Babar Azam, the world's best batsman, is a sure bet for any combined XI. Shaheen Afridi with his pace and swing has given many top batsmen trouble. Mohammad Rizwan is a sound wicketkeeper-batsman with a good record in T20 and ODI cricket. They were not picked by Chopra for his XI despite their caliber.

Aakash Chopra picks Current Combined India-Pakistan XI:

1. Shubman Gill.
2. Rohit Sharma (C).
3. Virat Kohli.
4. Shreyas Iyer.
5. KL Rahul.
6. Axar Patel.
7. Hardik Pandya.
8. Ravindra Jadeja.
9. Kuldeep Yadav.
10. Mohammed Shami.
11. Harshit Rana. pic.twitter.com/cHbPcdzHWJ

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) February 25, 2025

ALSO READ:Virat Kohli Would Have Been Given Out For Obstructing The Field An Opportunity Missed By Pakistan

Analysis of Chosen Player

•   Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are arguably one of the finest opening pairs of international cricket at the moment.
• Virat Kohli is yet a significant player with all the experience he carries and the capability to win games.
• Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul are the rock of the middle order.
• Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja provide all-around talent, including both batting and bowling strengths.
• Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Shami have been excellent with the ball.
• Harshit Rana is a new recruit, who has been very promising as a pacer.

The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry is always heated, but this time it wasn't the match alone that was in the limelight andit was the commentary.

Sarfaraz : "Riwaz allah ka jap kar rahe hain"

Aakash Chopra : "Rohit Mahamrityunjay kar rahe hain"

Raina: "Virat Mahadev Bhakt hain and Abhi Mahashivratri bhi hain"

We got Mahadev vs Allah in commentary 😭 #INDvsPAK

— Div🦁 (@div_yumm) February 23, 2025

Short Video of this -pic.twitter.com/bA3Ni12GKT

— Div🦁 (@div_yumm) February 23, 2025

ALSO SEE: Watch: Hardik Pandya celebration after dismissing Babar Azam

During the match, Sarfaraz Ahmed said, "Riwaz Allah ka jap kar rahe hain," meaning religious rituals. Aakash Chopra retorted with, "Rohit Mahamrityunjay kar rahe hain," associating it with Hindu prayers. Suresh Raina then joined in, "Virat Mahadev Bhakt hain and abhi Mahashivratri bhi hain."

The conversation quickly went viral, with fans reacting in different ways. Some saw it as a fun and unique moment, while others felt that cricket commentary should stay focused on the game.

Social media has been buzzing with debates—should religious references be a part of sports commentary, or should broadcasters avoid them altogether?

What’s your take on this?

Feeling that 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is going to be a real big bang that will excite each of its game fans around the world, the cricket experts have already made their bets on who of them will be the champions who will top the lists on who will be the best batsmen and bowlers of the tournament. Since the best athletes from all over the world will participate in this contest, there are going to be a lot of exciting solo performances. The following is what some of the most highly respected analysts shared their views:

Experts Predictions for Champions Trophy 2025 for Runs & Wickets Leaders :

ALSO SEE: If AI Created the Perfect Cricket Team for the Champions Trophy

STAR SPORTS EXPERT PREDICTION FOR CHAMPIONS TROPHY MOST RUNS & WICKETS:

Kevin Pietersen - Klaasen & Adil Rashid.
Murali Vijay - Shubman Gill & Rashid Khan
Aakash Chopra - Shubman Gill.
Sanjay Bangar - Virat Kohli & Kuldeep Yadav
Deep Dasg1upta - Virat Kohli & Rashid Khan pic.twitter.com/8m2HmCRzMI

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 19, 2025

Thoughts on 2025 Champions Trophy :

The fans of cricket should look forward to intense matches and individual battles between the best teams as the 2025 Champions Trophy draws near. The expert opinion based on their watchfulness, correct predictions, and critical predictions may illustrate the most outstanding players at the end of the day. However, the natural of the game is that it is a game of uncertainty which means that the judgments become untrue will appear in reality. Are there any champions out there that were underestimated and went up to the top or will whatever prognosticators put out really stick? It will only be a matter of time to see who comes up on top.