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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Lucknow Super Giants pulled off an impressive victory against the Mumbai Indians by chasing down a target of 145 runs. This win was crucial for Lucknow as it strengthened their position on the points table.

The match started with Mumbai Indians batting first after losing the toss. However, they faced early trouble, losing wickets quickly and struggling at 28/4 during the powerplay phase. It seemed Lucknow’s bowlers were dominating the game, particularly Mohsin Khan.

Mayank Yadav makes comeback with amazing performance

However, Mumbai Indians managed to stabilize their innings with a partnership between Ishan Kishan and Nehal Wadhera. By the halfway mark, they had reached 57/4, thanks to their efforts. However, Mayank Yadav also gave amazing bowling performances that took the heart.

Towards the end of their innings, Tim David’s explosive hitting and Wadhera’s steady batting helped Mumbai reach a competitive total of 144/7. Despite the tough bowling from Lucknow, especially Mohsin Khan’s impressive performance, Mumbai put up a fight.

Marcus Stoinis and KL Rahul’s partnership bring the win  

In response, Lucknow’s innings began with a setback when Arshin Kulkarni was dismissed early by Nuwan Thushara. However, Marcus Stoinis and KL Rahul built a strong partnership, hitting boundaries and keeping the scoreboard ticking.

Though Mumbai tried to break through, Hardik Pandya managed to dismiss Rahul and Deepak Hooda. Stoinis, the star of the match, played a crucial innings, but Mohammad Nabi got him out eventually.

As the match progressed, Lucknow lost a few more wickets, but Stoinis’ half-century had already laid a solid foundation. Even though Mumbai tried hard to defend their total, Lucknow’s balanced batting lineup ensured they secured a win with four wickets in hand and four balls remaining.

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However, amidst the celebrations, there was a moment of concern for Lucknow when Mayank Yadav had to leave the field due to an injury scare. Mayank, known for his pace, had returned to the team after missing several games due to injury. His absence would have been felt, but Lucknow managed to overcome this hurdle and clinch a memorable victory on home ground.

In an electrifying match at Chepauk, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) pulled off an incredible victory against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). LSG’s Marcus Stoinis emerged as the hero of the day, smashing an astonishing 124 runs off just 63 balls. His remarkable performance not only helped LSG chase down a challenging target of 211 runs but also set a new record for the highest individual score in an IPL chase.

Stoinis shines on the ground 

Stoinis’ spectacular innings guided LSG to a historic win, becoming the first team this season to successfully chase down such a mammoth total. The match also marked the end of CSK’s unbeaten home record, as LSG outplayed them with a brilliant display of batting prowess.

The decision to chase was strategic, influenced by the dew factor in the second half, which made batting easier. LSG capitalized on this advantage, with Stoinis leading the charge and expertly managing the final overs to secure the win.

Despite CSK’s initial control, their defeat was attributed to some faltering performances by their bowlers and sloppy fielding. The impact of dew was evident, with instances like Tushar Deshpande’s high no-ball and Mustafizur Rahman’s cutter affecting the game in LSG’s favor.

LSG shows an amazing comeback

One of the defining moments of the match came in the 16th over, when Shardul Thakur bore the brunt of Stoinis’ onslaught, conceding 20 runs, including three consecutive boundaries.

The match saw several ups and downs, with LSG losing early wickets but Stoinis’ brilliance turned the tide in their favor. Devdutt Padikkal and Nicholas Pooran also made significant contributions before eventually departing.

See Also: India’s chance of traveling to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025 uncertain; Reports

In the end, LSG emerged victorious, shocking CSK with a six-wicket win, as Stoinis’ heroics propelled them to a memorable triumph. This win lifts LSG to fourth place in the points table, with ten points from eight games, while CSK slips to fifth.