The important match of IPL 2025 between Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings was played at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. In this match, Delhi Capitals defeated Punjab Kings by 6 wickets and ended their season of IPL 2025 with a win. Punjab Kings had set a target of 207 runs in front of Delhi Capitals. In response, Delhi Capitals won in the last over.

In this match played at Jaipur ground, Punjab Kings came to bat first, then their start was not good and openers Priyansh Arya (6) and Prabhsimran Singh (26) could not do anything special. After this, Josh Inglis scored 32 runs in 12 balls with three fours and two sixes. While Shreyas Iyer played an innings of 53 runs in 34 balls with five fours and two sixes. While in the end Marcus Stoinis played an unbeaten innings of 44 runs in 16 balls with three fours and four sixes. Due to which Punjab, playing first, made a total of 206 runs for eight wickets. Mustafizur Rahman took the maximum three wickets for Delhi.

Sameer Rizvi played a brilliant innings in the run chase

Chasing the 207 runs given by Punjab Kings, Delhi opener KL Rahul scored 35 runs in 21 balls with six fours and a six. Apart from this, Faf du Plessis (23), debutant Sediqullah Atal (22) could not do anything special. After this, Karun Nair, who returned to the Test team India after eight years, batted and he played an innings of 44 runs in 27 balls with five fours and two sixes. Due to which Delhi needed 34 runs in 18 balls in the end.

But Sameer Rizvi played an unbeaten innings of 58 runs in 25 balls with three fours and five sixes till the end and along with him Tristan Stubbs also returned unbeaten after scoring 18 runs in 14 balls. With this, Delhi scored 208 runs for four wickets in 19.3 overs and ended the season by winning by six wickets. Delhi ended the season with 15 points from seven wins and six losses in 14 matches.

ALSO READ: Top 3 reasons why Punjab Kings Lost to Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025 Match 66

Twitter reactions after DC wins 66th match of IPL 2025

#PBKS oka 200 runs kottandi chalu 🤙 #PBKSvsDC easy win 🤷 . . pic.twitter.com/bS9TQaO4Me

— Shreya's 🤷 (@Shreyaskumar02) May 24, 2025

Chivariki ma notlone petevu ga anna lolipop 🤦
Nenu mari intha daridhram lo unna ante support chesina team 206 ni kuda defend cheskolekapoindhi 😭
Sammir rizvi brilliant batting 🫡 https://t.co/81kiSoZf0Z pic.twitter.com/jXeDQhqgnF

— Shreya's 🤷 (@Shreyaskumar02) May 24, 2025

pic.twitter.com/LoGI73iqsN

— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) May 24, 2025

pic.twitter.com/b4tQUuwE0b

— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) May 24, 2025

IPL's Top 3 teams right now pic.twitter.com/iYP5SnOVwZ

— Sagar (@sagarcasm) May 24, 2025

Peak Cinema ft. IPL Playoffs 🌶️🍿🥵 pic.twitter.com/QD4NJL7t6V

— RVCJ Media (@RVCJ_FB) May 24, 2025

Thank You @DelhiCapitals 🤗 pic.twitter.com/3Kxq0S59tr

— 𝙎𝘼𝙄_𝙐𝙎𝙏𝘼𝘼𝘿 🦅 (@Sai_PSPK18) May 24, 2025

Feeling really sad for KL Rahul.

This DC team had the potential not just for the playoffs but even the IPL final. They completely bottled it after such a strong first half.

I hope KL Rahul wins an IPL trophy someday — a player of his caliber truly deserves it. pic.twitter.com/vLa55UxBfU

— StarcyKKR (@StarcKKR) May 24, 2025

Sameer Rizvi supremacy 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/tevHtKsCl3

— TukTuk Academy (@TukTuk_Academy) May 24, 2025

GT, RCB and PBKS when they asked about where they will finish on points table: pic.twitter.com/dTbGbhdXhB

— TukTuk Academy (@TukTuk_Academy) May 24, 2025

The Punjab Kings have received a huge boost at the moment of need in IPL 2025 with the arrival of dynamic overseas players Marcus Stoinis, Josh Inglis, Aaron Hardie, and Kyle Jamieson. With the playoffs on the horizon, the addition of the four quality players has provided much-needed depth and balance in all departments. It is expected to bring some confidence and performance to the Kings as they look to secure their first IPL title.

The Kings have created history by qualifying for the playoffs for the first time in 11 years. A recent nail-biting victory over the Rajasthan Royals by 10 runs confirmed a place in the top four, resulting in one of the franchise's highest placements in over 10 years. The core team has performed well, and now with high-quality international players, the Kings are looking the best they have looked for a long time.

Head coach Ricky Ponting preached that this season the team should use natural instincts and attack fearlessly, and it has worked well for the Kings this Season. With the inclusion of Stoinis, who can bowl handy medium pace in addition to being an explosive batter, and Jamieson, who is a reliable fast bowler, the addition brings balance to the playing XI. Inglis and Hardie also have the ability to fit into the batting order, bringing more strategic depth to PBKS's batting lineup.

On the Road to the Playoffs: Punjab Kings are Looking Complete to Finish Strong

The timing of these additions couldn't have been better for Punjab, as they are set to play Delhi Capitals on May 24 for their last league match. If they can seal the game and win it, it would allow them to position themselves further up the points table and potentially allow them to get matched up against a lower-ranked team in the playoffs. With their full-strength lineup, PBKS could better their prospects in comparison to other teams facing injuries and fatigue. 

🚨 GOOD NEWS FOR PUNJAB KINGS 🚨

Stoinis, Inglis, Hardie & Jamieson joined Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2025. [Gaurav Gupta from TOI] pic.twitter.com/TFnVSkm2Kv

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 22, 2025

Also Read: WATCH: KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma share wholesome moment after MI vs DC clash in IPL 2025

With playoffs coming up, the Punjab Kings are looking more motivated than ever to end their titleless run. With a balanced composition of youth and experience backed with international firepower, Punjab is well positioned to contend for the IPL 2025 trophy.

During the current IPL 2025 season, today's clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has attracted maximum attention. However, two star players - Marcus Stoinis and Xavier Bartlett - are missing from the PBKS playing XI, leaving many fans curious.

ALSO SEE : Shubhman Gill drops bombshell revelation about his relationship with Sara Tendulkar

Why Marcus Stoinis Is Not Playing for PBKS Against KKR

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has been a key player for PBKS this season. His hard-hitting in the middle order and his capability of bowling cameo overs make him a key asset. Yet, in today's match between PBKS and KKR, the team management thought to include Glenn Maxwell in the playing XI in place of him.

The primary reason for Stoinis' absence is team strategy and overseas player restrictions. Only four overseas players can be in the playing XI according to IPL rules, and PBKS have chosen Maxwell, who provides big-hitting talent along with spin-bowling a strategic decision given KKR's batting prowess.

There is no injury issue for Marcus Stoinis; he has merely been rotated out to suit the team's match strategy for today's vital match.

Why Xavier Bartlett Is Not Taking the Field Today

Xavier Bartlett, the Australian pace sensation who impressed on his IPL debut, also missed out today. While no statement has officially hinted at a trouble or injury, it seems like his absence yet again is owing to overseas player restrictions and strategy changes.

PBKS has managed their overseas players very carefully this season, there was just no space left for Bartlett today. The management must have gone for an experienced set to tackle KKR's dynamic batting lineup.

ALSO SEE : IPL 2025 DC vs RCB : Player battles to watch out

Punjab Kings' Strategy for Today's Match

The Punjab Kings management made these changes to optimize their strengths against a strong KKR lineup. Maxwell's addition is likely to strengthen the middle order and add more bowling options, something that might be significant on the Eden Gardens track.

Fans need not worry that Marcus Stoinis and Xavier Bartlett are no longer integral parts of the PBKS team and will be back in future games based on situations and opposition.

Pure destruction by the Punjab Kings (PBKS) batter in the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). PBKS put a mammoth total of 245 in exchange for 6 wickets with the help of Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, captain Shreyas Iyer, and Marcus Stoinis. Veteran bowlers like Mohammed Shami could do nothing but concede runs after runs. Stoinis hit four consecutive over boundaries in a Shami over. 

Read More: IPL 2025: CSK coach remains optimistic about playoff berth despite toughest ongoing season

Punjab Kings started their innings with flyers. Arya and Singh at the top created a 66-run partnership in 4 overs. As the proverb says, Morning shows the day. PBKS batters are proving that right, mercilessly hammering SRH bowlers. Iyar 36 balls 82 and Nehal Wadhera anchoring 27-run innings provided the perfect ingredients to cook something grand. At the lower order, it was Marcus Stoinis who did the needful to put his team at a mountain of runs. 

The Australian all-rounder batted over a 300.00 strike rate and was toying with the SRH bowlers for fun. 

Stoinis created his moment in the middle of the park 

It was the last over of the first innings when Shami met with his nemesis, Marcus Stoinis. The first two deliveries of the 20th over were decent for the Indian pacer. After that, it was raining sixes in the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Shami had no clue how to prevent this disaster. 

FOUR CONSECUTIVE SIXES BY STOINIS AGAINST SHAMI 🥶 pic.twitter.com/lLLjxF47oy

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 12, 2025

In the third ball of that over, Shami, with an upright seam in the middle, went for maximum. In the following delivery, Shami tried to deliver a yorker, but it turned out to be a full toss, and Stoinis was there waiting. The next ball also flies into the stance to confirm four back-to-back 6s and 245 for PBKS. 

Narendra Modi Stadium Mishap:

During the encounter on March 25 at the Modi Stadium located in Ahmadabad, Stoinis hit a massive six off the bowling of Mohammed Siraj, achieving it over deep mid-wicket. The ball unfortunately struck a waitress on duty and hit her. Medics were called in, and after a brief examination, she was allowed to resume work.

pic.twitter.com/iFC2Zw8MdI

— kuchnahi123@12345678 (@kuchnahi1269083) March 25, 2025

Also read:-SRH vs LSG : Weather and Pitch report

Match Highlights:

Stoinis scored 20 off 15 balls, including two sixes and a four, to ensure comprehensiveness of PBKS's 243 runs total. This was greatly helped by Shreyas Iyer's astonishing knock of 97 runs off 42 balls. Gujarat Titans fought hard but fell short by 11 runs, earning them a great victory. Even with the setback, the incident served to showcase the might of Stoinis' batting alongside the need for greater attention on-field security staff.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 awaits the most cricket tournament, unfortunately, some of the top players are not taking part in this tournament due to injuries and so on. A comprehensive list going over the players who were dropped and why they did not make it. 

1.Jasprit Bumrah(India)

India's best fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out due to a lower back injury. He had back problems during the final Test at Sydney against Australia that also ruled him out of the T20 series with England. Doctors have recommended complete rest to recover properly from such injuries.

2. Saim Ayub (Pakistan)

Saim Ayub (Pakistani Young batsman) right ankle fracture Saim Ayub Pakistani young batsman will not be playing in the tournament. His ankle got him during the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town. He is looking to be back fully fit around ten weeks from now, therefore will not be ready for the Champions Trophy.

3.  Pat Cummins (Australia)

The Australian top-order batsman was ruled out by an ankle injury. Cummins suffered the injury while playing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India and has yet not been fit.

4. Josh Hazlewood (Australia)

Another important Australian fast bowler, Josh Hazlewood will also not be available for play in the tourney due to a hip injury. The same as earlier this season when he was pulled out of the Gabba Test in order not to risk his comeback with two weeks to go.

ALSO READ: SL vs AUS 1st ODI Live Streaming: Where & How to Watch the match online and tv

5. Mitchell Marsh (Australia)

Australian pace allrounder Mitchell Marsh has capped his career because of a back injury which has he considered for him to bring to life in the Champions Trophy.

6. Marcus Stoinis (Australia)

Australia batsman Marcus Stoinis has retired from ODI (One Day International) The decision is meant, that he will not be a part of Australia's squad for the Champions Trophy. 

7. Jacob Bethell (England)

England tour of India: England's Young England all-rounder, Jacob Bethell hurt his hamstring The injury will take a few weeks to heal and he won't be fit for the tournament.

8. Anrich Nortje (South Africa)

South African Anrich Nortje has had a bad back as well. He has not played international cricket since the 2024 T20 World Cup final and later had a bad inversion in the nets recently.

ALSO READ: Matthew Kuhnemann Reported for Suspect Bowling Action After Sri Lanka Test

9. Gerald Coetzee (South Africa)

Gerald Coetzee was ruled out with a tight groin They were tested medically and told playing in this tournament could make his injury worse so team management has pulled him out.

10. Mitchell Starc (Australia)

Mitchell Starc pulls out of Champions Trophy for personal reasons The full scoop on that call has yet to be released. 

Australian cricketer Marcus Stoinis has announced retirment from ODI cricket. Currently with his powerful batting skill and relatively sound medium-pace bowling, the all-rounder has decided to leave the 50-over format and choose the T20 game for his future.

🚨 MARCUS STOINIS RETIRED FROM ODI FORMAT. 🚨 pic.twitter.com/2Xr6Xez7Dv

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 6, 2025

Reason for leaving ODIs :

Stoinis said that it wasn't an easy decision to retire from ODI cricket, but he felt that the time had come for him to move on. "Playing ODIs for Australia has been an incredible experience. I'm grateful for every moment in the green and gold," he added while looking back at his journey.

With the ICC Champions Trophy soon, Australia is now going to look for an all-rounder to play the role for them after this departure.

SEE ALSO: ILT20: MIE vs SW Dream11 Prediction Eliminator Match Fantasy Cricket Tips, Probable Playing XI

Next for the Marcus Stoinis

• Continue playing T20 for Australia
• Participating T20 leagues from corner of the gloab
• Focus on upcoming T20 world cup

The Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 is in full swing during the Australian summer. In a thrilling match between Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades, New Zealand cricketer Tim Seifert, playing for the Renegades, grabbed attention with a monstrous six. This incredible shot became one of the season’s most memorable moments.

The moment came in the 8th over when Seifert faced Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis from the Stars. On the third ball of the over, Stoinis delivered a short good-length ball. Seifert read it early and unleashed a powerful pull shot between long-on and mid-wicket. The ball soared 102 meters and landed deep in the stands. The sheer distance left everyone in awe, with fans and commentators praising Seifert’s timing and strength. In other countries, such a hit might have cleared the stadium entirely. Stoinis’s reaction summed up the disbelief shared by all.

🚨 102m MCG SIX 🚨

That is huge from Tim Seifert - and how about the 'Sam Konstas' celebration on the crowd catch! #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/7GPorbn0r8

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 4, 2025

Despite this brilliant six, Seifert couldn’t convert his start into a big innings. He was dismissed just four balls later, scoring 17 runs. Before his dismissal, the Renegades' openers, Josh Brown and Jake Fraser-McGurk, also fell cheaply, putting their team under pressure.

However, the middle-order batsmen stepped up for the Renegades. English young star Jacob Bethell scored 49, while Jonathan Wells added a steady 45. Their partnership helped the Renegades reach a competitive total of 168 runs, which seemed like a good target on this ground.

Read Also: 'Aaj Rohit ko support ki zarurat hai, par hum log use niche gira rahe hain': Yuvraj Singh's father Yograj Singh speaks out on Rohit Sharma.

But the Melbourne Stars had other plans. Their chase was anchored by Ben Duckett, who played a match-winning knock of 67 runs. With support from other batters, the Stars chased down the target comfortably with five wickets in hand, securing an important victory.

While the Stars celebrated their win, Seifert’s gigantic six remained the highlight of the match. Fans and commentators couldn’t stop talking about the power and skill behind his shot. It was a moment that stole the spotlight, even in defeat, and added excitement to an already thrilling season of BBL.

The 35-year-old Marcus Stoinis is all set to become the next captain for Melbourne Stars in the forthcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season. The swashbuckling all-rounder will replace the long-standing skipper Glenn Maxwell who had resigned last season at the end of the supper. 

Stoinis has previously captained Stars in Maxwell's absence in the 2023 BBL season. In the absence of Maxwell from the 2022-23 BBL season, Stoinis emerged as the front-runner to being an interim captain but that role was later handed to Adam Zampa. 

See also: 'Good to see him working on the game' - Harbhajan Singh on Virat Kohli

What does Stoinis have to say about this new role as a Stars' captain?

Stoinis is the second player after Maxwell to feature in 100 BBL games for Melbourne Stars. He has been associated with the franchise for an eternity and his association will further deepen following his three-year contract extension which confirms his availability till the 2026-27 season. 

Therefore, it comes as no surprise, that Stoinis was thrilled to hear this news. Being a devoted servant to his franchise, Stoinis expressed his joy while taking over the leadership role and looks forward to contributing to his team's success in the long run.

"I had a little bit of a taste of captaining the side in Maxi's absence last year and loved the opportunity so to be given the role full-time is a great honour. The Stars have been such a constant in my life every summer for the last 10 years and I truly believe that the group we have assembled both on and off the field can bring some long overdue success to the club."

Blair Crouch has his say on Stoinis' appointment as Stars skipper

While thanking the departing skipper Maxwell for his contributions, Melbourne Stars general manager Blair Crouch showered praise on the 35-year-old all-rounder and feels fortunate to have someone as like him as a captain who has been around for the franchise since it's inception. 

"First of all, I want to acknowledge and thank Glenn Maxwell for all his efforts in leading the side over the past five seasons and he will continue to be a wonderful resource for everyone at the club. Marcus demonstrated his leadership ability last year and has been a senior member of the side for a long time. It's wonderful to have someone who has been at the Stars almost from our inception lead our club in BBL14."

Stoinis will have some serious work to do once he takes over from Maxwell officially. The current Melbourne Starts lineup is missing some big names and is expected to lack a lot of firepower at the beginning of the season. It remains unclear as to when Maxwell will return from his hamstring injury but he will most certainly be out of action from the first match of the season at least. 

The T20 World Cup 2024 has wrapped up, leaving cricket fans across the globe in awe of the stunning performances and nail-biting matches. Among all the excitement, India emerged victorious, lifting the trophy for the second time. While the Indian team’s brilliance was evident, several players from different countries showcased exceptional skills. Here, we look at the best playing XI of the tournament, highlighting the standout performers.

See Also: Rohit Sharma’s unique celebrations after winning T20 World Cup 2024; FIFA and Wimbledon acknowledge

Take a look at best playing of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024

This best playing XI, featuring a mix of experienced stalwarts and emerging stars, exemplifies the spirit and excitement of T20 cricket. Each player brought something unique to the table, contributing to memorable performances and unforgettable matches. As we celebrate India’s victory, let’s also appreciate the remarkable efforts of these individuals who made the tournament a spectacular event.

1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG)

Rahmanullah Gurbaz was a key figure in Afghanistan’s impressive run in the tournament. The Afghan opener’s stats speak volumes: 8 matches, 281 runs, an average of 35.12, and a strike rate of 124.33.

Gurbaz’s role as the steady opener ensured that Afghanistan often had a solid start. His ability to build an innings and set a foundation for a competitive total made him an invaluable asset.

2. Rohit Sharma (IND) (C)

Rohit Sharma, India’s skipper, had a fantastic tournament with the bat. Scoring 257 runs in 8 matches with an average of 36.71 and a strike rate of 156.70, Rohit led by example.

His captaincy was a masterclass in strategy. Utilizing four spinners effectively and adapting to match situations, Rohit showcased why he is considered one of the best captains in modern cricket.

3. Andries Gous (USA) (wk)

The USA’s wicketkeeper-batter Andries Gous made a significant impact. With 219 runs in 6 matches at an average of 43.80 and a strike rate of 151.03, Gous was a pillar for the USA team.

Gous’s ability to handle pressure and perform in tricky conditions earned him a spot as the keeper-batter in this elite XI.

4. Suryakumar Yadav (IND)

Suryakumar Yadav continued to shine in the T20 format, scoring 199 runs in 8 matches with an average of 28.42 and a strike rate of 135.37.

His knack for adapting to different playing conditions and match situations made him a crucial player for India. Star India batter Suryakumar Yadav took a sensational catch on the boundary to dismiss David Miller and help India win the T20 World Cup 2024.

5. Marcus Stoinis (AUS)

Marcus Stoinis lived up to his ‘Hulk’ nickname with powerful performances. In 7 matches, he scored 169 runs at a strike rate of 164.07 and took 10 wickets.

His dual capabilities as a hard-hitting batter and reliable bowler made him indispensable to the Australian squad. In the match against Namibia, Stoinis scored 59 runs in just 29 balls, with nine fours and two sixes. His runs came at a strike rate of 203.44.

6. Hardik Pandya (IND

Hardik Pandya bounced back from a tough IPL season with a stellar World Cup performance. He scored 144 runs and took 11 wickets, showcasing his all-round prowess.

Pandya was particularly effective in the US leg of the tournament, where he emerged as a top wicket-taker for India. Hardik defended 16 runs in the final over to ensure a famous win for his team.

7. Axar Patel (IND)

Axar Patel demonstrated his all-round abilities with both bat and ball. He took 9 wickets and scored 92 runs, contributing significantly in all departments.

Axar’s presence added depth to the Indian lineup, providing both offensive and defensive options. Axar Patel’s 47 off 31 balls crucial knock should not be overlooked. Following the loss of three wickets for 34 runs in final match against South Africa, Axar was promoted up the order as a circuit-breaker.

8. Rashid Khan (AFG)

Rashid Khan led Afghanistan with distinction. His 14 wickets in 8 matches, with an economy rate of 6.17, underlined his importance.

Rashid’s best performances came in high-pressure matches, where he delivered critical breakthroughs. He made history in a match against Bangladesh, becoming the first spinner to surpass 150 wickets in T20I cricket and the fourth bowler to record three four-wicket hauls in the tournament.

9. Anrich Nortje (SA)

Anrich Nortje marked his return to international cricket with a bang. He took 13 wickets in 8 matches, with an average of 13.46 and a best of 4-7.

Nortje’s lethal bowling in the powerplay and death overs made him a standout performer for South Africa. The speedster made the most of spicy wickets in USA, kickstarting his campaign with a 4-7 against Sri Lanka.

He’s also been effective in the West Indies, bowling a brilliant final over to secure a close win against England and getting 2-7 in the semi-final against Afghanistan.

10. Jasprit Bumrah (IND)

Jasprit Bumrah was the tournament’s best bowler, with 15 wickets in 8 matches and an economy rate of 4.17. His average of 8.26 reflects his dominance.

As if making up for the fact that he missed the last edition of the tournament due to an injury, Jasprit Bumrah has shown peak form in the tournament.Bumrah’s ability to take wickets in all phases of the game was instrumental in India’s success.

This was most visible against Pakistan in New York, where the irrepressible pacer bamboozled the opposition in each of his short spells, and guided India to a six-run win with his 3-14.

11. Fazalhaq Farooqi (AFG)

Fazalhaq Farooqi was a revelation for Afghanistan. With 17 wickets in 9 matches and an economy rate of 6.31, he was a consistent threat to opposition batters.

Fazalhaq Farooqi led Afghanistan’s charge in the group stages with his scintillating new ball display, picking 12 wickets from his first three games, including a career-best 5-9 versus Uganda and 4-17 in his side’s historic win over New Zealand. Farooqi’s impressive performance earned him a well-deserved place in this best XI.

12th Man: Saurabh Netravlakar (USA)

Saurabh Netravalkar’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2024 was nothing short of inspirational. He played a crucial role in USA’s surprising run to the Super Eights.

His ability to bowl effectively in both powerplays and death overs, including a memorable Super Over against Pakistan, highlighted his skill and composure.