In a watershed decision to improve domestic cricket in India, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a big monetary reward for players who play the longer format of the game consistently. The board has said that any player who plays 14 first-class matches in a season will receive an additional match fee of ₹1 crore.

This decision was made at the BCCI's AGM in Mumbai and was reported by former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, a member of the Punjab Cricket Association and present at the AGM. Harbhajan said the decision will benefit domestic players, both in terms of financial security and the fact that it encourages players to commit to the rigour of first-class cricket.

"If a player plays 14 first-class matches, he will get an additional match fee of ₹1 crore. It will also be a great incentive for teams to make finals of domestic tournaments, and players will be incentivised to play as many matches as they can," Harbhajan said.

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BCCI introduces ₹1 crore reward to boost domestic cricket and support players

The initiative is viewed as a true game-changer for Indian cricket players at the grassroots level. While top-tier players abroad and those in the IPL are being well-compensated, many skilled domestic players do not have a financially rewarding contract and depend almost entirely on match fees. Cricketers like Abhimanyu Easwaran, who are not on any IPL team or BCCI central contracts, will gain the most advantage from this initiative.

The BCCI's actions demonstrate the board's commitment toward revitalizing the importance of domestic cricket, particularly the Ranji Trophy, which has historically been called the funnel for future India stars. By directly linking financial rewards to participation, the domestic tournaments will become more competitive as players will be more incentivized and serious when participating.

Aside from the new financial model, the AGM elected a new BCCI President, Mithun Manhas, a former captain of Delhi, who replaces Roger Binny. Man not only holds a wealth of knowledge and vision, but also holds over 9,700 first-class runs.

After introducing the incentive scheme, yet continuing to stay on-topic with the leadership change, the BCCI will make it clear about its intentions to empower domestic cricketers, grow competitiveness, and grow the developmental systems for India's future in cricket.

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh’s father, Yograj Singh, launched a sharp criticism when asked if Virat Kohli’s captaincy could have helped Yuvraj extend his career. Yograj believes that almost all of Yuvraj’s contemporaries were scared that he might take their spots in the team. Yuvraj had an illustrious 15-year international career, but he faced periods of being in and out of the Indian side, particularly in 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017.

Virat Kohli became India’s permanent captain in white-ball formats at the start of 2017. Despite this, Yuvraj played only eight ODIs under Kohli that season before being dropped permanently from the team. Yograj’s comments suggest that Kohli’s captaincy could not have changed the dynamics of fear and competition surrounding Yuvraj’s place in the side.

Speaking to Inside Sport, Yograj said, "As I told you, there are no friends in the sphere of success, money, and glory. There were always backstabbers, people who wanted to put you down. People were scared of Yuvraj Singh because they were afraid he would usurp their seats because he was such a great player created by the God Almighty. He has been the greatest of players, who they were scared of—right from MS Dhoni, everybody—'Oh,he might take my chair.'"

Yuvraj’s Career and Kohli’s Captaincy

Kohli is among India’s most successful captains, registering 135 wins in 213 matches across formats. During his captaincy, India excelled at Test cricket during the second half of the decade, including their first series win in Australia (2018/19)

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Although Kohli had success as a captain, the fact that Yuvraj didn't play at all during that time shows the intense competition and inner workings of the team Yograj spoke of because talent was not always enough to secure a position on the Indian national team.

 Prithvi Shaw was once seen as the next big thing in Indian cricket  a teenage prodigy who made a century on Test debut and had the world at his feet. But since that magical start in 2018, his journey hasn’t been smooth. Injuries, inconsistent form, and off-field distractions pulled him away from the spotlight. Now, after spending time away from the national team, Shaw is opening up about what those tough years taught him  both as a cricketer and as a person.

In a recent interview, Shaw spoke candidly about how the last couple of years changed him  not just as a cricketer but as a person. He admitted to being impatient earlier in his career, expecting quick results and instant returns. But the setbacks, he says, forced him to slow down, reflect, and work on both his mindset and discipline. "I’ve realised that talent alone isn’t enough. It’s about how mentally strong you are when things aren’t going your way," he shared.

While still only 24, Shaw is now speaking with the maturity of someone who has seen the other side of fame and form. He’s spent time working on his fitness, technique, and most importantly, on staying grounded. The young opener, who’s currently performing well in domestic cricket and hopes to make a national comeback soon, seems more focused and aware of what it truly takes to play at the top level  and stay there.

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A More Grounded Shaw Ready for His Second Chance

Shaw’s story serves as a reminder of how quickly things can change in Indian cricket. He was once seen as the next big thing, but found himself out of the squad and in the headlines for the wrong reasons. Now, he’s learning the value of patience, hard work, and silence — letting his bat do the talking instead of chasing the spotlight.

With a strong domestic season behind him and a renewed sense of purpose, Prithvi Shaw may be preparing for what could be the most important chapter of his career. If the lessons stick and the hunger stays, Indian cricket could still see the best of him wiser, hungrier, and more balanced than ever before.

Nitish Rana looks set for a homecoming in Indian domestic cricket. After spending two seasons with Uttar Pradesh, the left-handed batter is likely to return to his original side, Delhi, ahead of the upcoming domestic season. The news was first reported by Pratyush Raj of the Times of India, and has already created buzz among fans of Delhi cricket.

Rana moved to Uttar Pradesh in 2022, probably looking for a fresh start and more chances to play consistently. He had a few solid outings there, but let’s be honest  the move didn’t really pan out the way many had hoped. Now, with Delhi rebuilding and trying to find their rhythm again, bringing someone like Rana back into the mix just feels like the right move.

He’s not new to the grind. Rana’s been around the domestic circuit for years, played in big IPL games, and even led Delhi before. He hits hard, plays with intent, and doesn’t shy away from pressure all things a young Delhi side could really use right now. He’s the kind of player who brings both skill and presence to the dressing room someone who’s been through it and knows what it takes.

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Nitish Rana’s Return Could Be the Turning Point in Delhi’s Domestic Cricket Rebuild

Rana’s return won’t just be about adding runs to the scorecard it could be about resetting Delhi’s mindset. Over the years, Rana has grown into a mature cricketer who understands the grind of domestic cricket. Rana’s been through a lot  he’s played big IPL matches, handled pressure situations, and seen what it’s like to be in different team environments. That kind of experience can’t be taught. It’s not just about the runs he scores it’s the leadership, the energy, and the intent he brings with him. For a Delhi side filled with young talent still finding their feet in the longer format, having someone like Rana around could make a real difference. He knows what it takes to win, and just as importantly, how to bounce back when things don’t go your way.

His presence in the dressing room could lift the whole squad. Rana understands the weight that comes with wearing the Delhi cap the expectations, the pressure, the constant comparisons. He’s been there before. And whether it’s rescuing the team from a collapse or putting an arm around a youngster who’s had a tough day, he adds value in ways that go beyond just numbers on a scoresheet. Delhi’s red-ball form has been patchy for a while now, but with Rana’s return, there’s hope they can turn a corner. He’s been through the highs and the lows  and that kind of experience might be exactly what this Delhi team needs to start punching above its weight again.

Just weeks after announcing his retirement from the Test arena, start Indian batter Rohit Sharma once again managed to make headlines. On June 23, 2007, Rohit made his ODI debut for India against Ireland. This day marked the start of an incredible career for Rohit Sharma, which has lasted for 18 (still counting) long years. The 38-year-old will no longer be featuring for India in the whites or in the shortest format, but will continue to play for the national side in the ODI format. 

To commemorate his humble beginnings from the Ireland ODI, Rohit took to his Instagram and posted a story with his helmet, which he wore on that day. The helmet had the India badge inscription along with the national flag. Moreover, the story also contained the following caption, "Forever grateful" along with the date which marked the beginning of his prosperous cricketing career. 

See also: Rohit Sharma to miss 2027 World Cup? Captaincy twist sparks speculation

'Forever grateful' - Rohit Sharma expresses gratitude after completing 18 years

Rohit Sharma Instagram story on completing 18 years for India.🇮🇳🥹❤️

Forever grateful.🐐 pic.twitter.com/BihHPJ3VJ9

— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) June 23, 2025

Nearly two decades after making his debut, Rohit has established himself as one of the most prolific batters of all time. Not only did his batting come a long way over the years, but his brilliance as a captain has won India two major ICC trophies, namely the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 & the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, the Indian batting stalwart did not get off to such a smooth beginning at the start of his career. 

Rohit did not get a chance to bat in his debut game against Ireland. But when he did get a chance to bat against South Africa in that series, he fell cheaply for eight. Although Rohit managed to showcase some flashes of brilliance in the inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup in 2007, he was vastly overlooked by the selectors and failed to cement his spot in the team as a permanent member.

Between 2007 and 2012, Rohit's potential mostly remained underutilised. But it all changed from 2013 onwards when he was promoted up the order as an opener. This masterstroke move paid dividends as it gave Rohit the freedom to go after the bowlers, helping him establish a reputation for being one of the most lethal openers in world cricket. 

India’s 2025 Home Season: Full Schedule Announced

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced India's home season schedule for 2025. The season will feature intense red-ball and white-ball clashes against the West Indies and South Africa, spanning from October to December.

Follow for more: https://www.cricketwinner.com/

West Indies Tour of India (October 2025)

India will kick off their home season with a two-match Test series against the West Indies. The first Test will be played in Ahmedabad, followed by the second Test in Kolkata. These matches will be crucial for India's World Test Championship campaign.

• 1st Test: October 2-6, Ahmedabad
• 2nd Test: October 10-14, Kolkata

🚨 INDIA'S ACTION-PACKED 2025 SEASON! 🚨

- Team India will also tour Australia for 3 ODIs & 5 T20Is in between their home fixtures. 🌏🔥

Big matches ahead! 🇮🇳🏏 #INDvAUS #Cricket pic.twitter.com/HfAjFponXK

— Akaran.A (@Akaran_1) April 2, 2025

South Africa Tour of India (November - December 2025)

Following the West Indies series, South Africa will visit India for an all-format tour. The Proteas will compete in two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, making it a high-intensity cricketing period for Indian fans.

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Test Series:

• 1st Test: November 14-18, Delhi
• 2nd Test: November 22-26, Guwahati

ODI Series:

• 1st ODI: November 30, Ranchi
• 2nd ODI: December 3, Raipur
• 3rd ODI: December 6, Vizag

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T20I Series:

• 1st T20I: December 9, Cuttack
• 2nd T20I: December 11, Chandigarh
• 3rd T20I: December 14, Dharamshala
• 4th T20I: December 17, Lucknow
• 5th T20I: December 19, Ahmedabad

With crucial Test matches, a competitive ODI series, and an exciting five-match T20I series, India's 2025 home season promises thrilling cricket action for fans worldwide.

Harsh Dubey is a name that has been making headlines in Indian domestic cricket. A left-arm spinner and all-rounder from Vidarbha, he made news with his record-breaking Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season, when he created a new record for the most wickets in a season. His regular performances have got cricket enthusiasts and experts sitting up and taking notice, and several feel that he may be playing at the top level very soon.

Who is Harsh Dubey?

Harsh Dubey was born on July 23, 2002, in Pune, Maharashtra. He fell in love with cricket at a young age. His hard work and talent made him play for Vidarbha Cricket Team in domestic cricket, where he has impressed with his bowling as well as batting.

Harsh Dubey's Cricket Career

First-Class (Ranji Trophy) Performance:

• Matches: 18
• Wickets Taken: 97
• Best Bowling Figures: 6/36
• Bowling Average: 19.98
• Runs Scored: 709
• Highest Score: 76

List A and T20 Cricket:

• List A Matches: 20
• Wickets Taken: 21
• Runs Scored: 213
• T20 Matches: 16
• T20 Wickets: 9

Shattering Records in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy

The 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season was a turning point for Dubey. He took 69 wickets, setting a new record for most wickets in a season, eclipsing Ashutosh Aman's previous record of 68 wickets. His unforgettable bowling performances played a crucial role in Vidarbha winning the title, proving that he is a match-winner.

Also see : Ranji Trophy 2025 Final: Kerala vs Vidarbha: A Thrilling Contest in Nagpur

Training with Ravichandran Ashwin

Harsh Dubey honed his bowling skills under the guidance of Ravichandran Ashwin while playing club cricket in Chennai. His coaching under Ashwin helped him to perfect variations and match sense, and thus he turned into a more feared bowler.

Harsh Dubey's Future in Cricket

With his ability and regular performances, Harsh Dubey is regarded as a future India player. He is also a good bet for the Indian Premier League (IPL), where teams are constantly looking for quality spin bowlers.

Harsh Dubey's path from a young hopeful cricketer to a record-shattering Ranji Trophy player is motivational. His skill to take wickets when the pressure is on and also score runs with the bat makes him a must-have player for any team. Be it IPL or the Indian national team, Dubey's future seems promising, and Indian cricket enthusiasts must watch out for this new talent.

Also Read : 

Ranji Trophy 2025 Final: Kerala vs Vidarbha: A Thrilling Contest in Nagpur

Of late, Hardik Pandya has been performing really well and thus has further enhanced his presence  in international cricket. He also put up a brilliant bowling performance in the Champions Trophy game against Pakistan on  February 23, 2025, during which he took two vital wickets while conceding  31 runs in his 8-over spell. He was indeed helpful in restricting Pakistan to a  241/9 on the board, which India chased easily with 6 wickets left. 

Hardik Pandya: The Real Warrior

Hardik Pandya has always been a cricketer who gives his everything on the cricket pitch. From his fiery batting, match-winning outings, or his pressure leadership, he has gained the respect of fans all over the globe.  It has indeed been inspiring to see his transformation from a young struggling cricketer to an international  celebrity.  There is one thing recently that he has done that has made fans respect him even  more. It could have been a great performance, good sportsmanship or the right way of handling the  challenges, he is always proving why he is an important part of Indian cricket.

A Special Day: Hanuman Ji’s Saturday

Hanuman Ji also has today as his Saturday, a day devoted to Lord Hanuman, a personage celebrated for his power, faith, and loyalty. The fact that it is this particular day when Pandya gained more respect is noteworthy, since both of them represent grit, determination, and an unrelenting combat spirit. Just as Hanuman Ji broke through adversity with sheer willpower, so has Pandya relentlessly battled injuries, criticism and adversities to demonstrate his credibility.

Fans Admire Pandya Even More

Pandya's impact is not limited to cricket. His personality, confidence, and never-say-die attitude inspire young players and sports fans alike. Even after his career had some ups and downs, he continued to come back stronger, increasing his fans' respect for him.

 Jai Shri Ram: A Moment of Appreciation

As we celebrate both Hardik  Pandya and Hanuman Ji today, I just want to take a moment to celebrate dedication, courage,  and strength. Success always waits for hard work and both Pandya and Hanuman Ji show us this  for us.

Yuvraj Singh, a former Indian all-rounder, has highly praised the best all-format player of their generation and former India captain Virat Kohli. Kohli, who has gone through a rough patch across formats during the past months, is now showing signs of ease in the final ODI of the three-match series against England in India.
Mainly, Yuvraj, after pointing out the variances in his performances, feels sure that Kohli’s name shall be forever written on the wall of the greats. The 2011 World Cup winner said that he had never been in the best shape throughout his career, and Kohli himself was an example of that.

Yuvraj Singh talking about Virat Kohli and his greatness. 👑

- King Kohli, The GOAT. 🐐pic.twitter.com/KOEC4VPiLG

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) February 19, 2025

"No Comparison to King Kohli," Said the Yuvraj :

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The talk took place on Star Sports. Yuvraj could not help but praise the influence of Kohli on the game, and then he said: "In my language, I say him King Kohli has already been 'The Kohli' for a long time of years. Whatever one may say about form, a career of 17-18 years will always have ups and downs. However, if you just only glance through his whole record, you will realize he is still ahead of others. For our age, he is the most excellent player in any case in all frequencies—there is no match to make." 
Kohli will play in the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai against Bangladesh. Fans are waiting to see him.

Rishi Dhawan, who is 34 and plays cricket for Himachal Pradesh, decided to retire from the shorter versions of cricket just after the Vijay Hazare Trophy group stage was over. Although he only played for India in four games—three of them were ODIs and one was a T20I in 2016—he still made a major impact in cricket games within India.

For Himachal Pradesh this season, Dhawan has been amazing. He obtained 397 runs in just five matches, which means his batting average is extremely high at 79.40. Not simply that, he also took 11 wickets, and each one cost about 28.45 runs on average. His team is actually performing well in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and they're now second in Group B.

They're working very hard to get to the quarter-finals.

Dhawan shared the news on social media, stating:

“It’s not easy to say goodbye, but I have no regrets as I announce my retirement from Indian limited-overs cricket. Cricket has shaped my life for the past 20 years, bringing me endless joy and unforgettable memories that I will always cherish.”

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Rishi Dhawan (@rishidhawan19)

Dhawan was very grateful to the Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Kolkata Knight Riders, the IPL teams he played for. He also expressed his graduate to the BCCI and Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association. Reflecting on how much he has learned and grown.

“From starting with nothing to representing India on the biggest stage, it’s been an incredible privilege. Cricket has been my passion and the reason I woke up every day. I want to thank all my coaches, mentors, teammates, and support staff for helping me become the person I am today.”

Helping Himachal Pradesh win their first-ever Vijay Hazare Trophy in the 2021-22 season really stood out in Rishi Dhawan's career. Mr. Dhawan was doing very well, obtaining 458 runs and taking 17 wickets across just eight games. Because of his amazing skills both in hitting and fielding, he was ranked the second-best player of the season in both categories.

This means he's one of the rare players to be in the top five for both obtaining and taking out opponents. So far, this win is still the only domestic trophy Himachal Pradesh has gotten.

Rishi Dhawan had a very big moment in his career when he led Himachal Pradesh to their first Vijay Hazare Trophy win in the 2021-22 season. Mr. Dhawan performed well by scoring 458 runs and getting 17 wickets across just eight games. Because of his amazing performance in both batting and bowling, he ended up being the second-best player of the season.

This made him one of the rare players to be in the top five for both runs and wickets. Himachal Pradesh winning the trophy is their only domestic victory so far.

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Rishi Dhawan's Cricket Career Stats Across Formats

Rishi Dhawan has announced his retirement from limited-overs cricket, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable contributions to both the Indian and Himachal Pradesh cricket teams. In the IPL, he was part of the Mumbai Indians squad in 2013 before representing the Punjab Kings from 2014 to 2024. Over the course of 39 IPL matches, he scored 210 runs and took 25 wickets, showcasing his value as a dependable all-rounder.