New Zealand put up a strong total of 180 runs in the final of the T20I Tri-series in Harare, with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra playing key innings. Even though South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi bowled very well and bowled tightly, the Kiwis still found a way to score big.

Conway and Rachin Lead the Way as New Zealand Score 180 Despite Ngidi’s Tight Bowling

After being asked to bat first, New Zealand got a great start. Tim Seifert and Devon Conway looked in good touch and added 75 runs for the first wicket. Seifert scored 30 before getting out, but Conway continued to bat nicely and made 47 runs before he was dismissed.

MATT HENRY, THE HERO OF NEW ZEALAND IN TRI-SERIES FINAL..!!!

- He defended 7 runs in the final over. 0,W,2,1,W,0 against South African finishers. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/neMHm3EfFu

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 26, 2025

Rachin Ravindra joined Conway and played a stylish knock. He also scored 47, hitting two sixes and four boundaries. Even though South Africa tried to pull things back with Ngidi’s smart bowling, New Zealand’s lower order added useful runs towards the end.

ALSO READ: [WATCH] Will Joe Root choose not to chase Sachin Tendulkar's most Test runs? Former India star predicts

Thanks to Conway and Rachin’s solid efforts, along with a few handy hits down the order, New Zealand finished their 20 overs with 180 on the board. Ngidi was the best bowler for South Africa, giving away very few runs and keeping the batters under pressure.

In Match 26 of the 2025 Major League Cricket season, Washington Freedom easily beat Seattle Orcas by 8 wickets at Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill. Washington chose to bowl first and did a great job, bowling out Seattle for just 82 runs the third-lowest score in MLC history.

Seattle’s batting fell apart. They were all out for 82 in 17.4 overs. Heinrich Klaasen tried hard with 48 runs from 39 balls, but no other batter did much. Sikandar Raza made 8 and Harmeet Singh 7. Washington’s bowlers were excellent. Glenn Maxwell took 3 for 12, Saurabh Netravalkar got 3 for 13, and Jack Edwards took 3 for 19.

Washington chased the small target easily. They scored 86 for 2 in 9.2 overs. Mukhtar Ahmed made 36 from 21 balls, and Rachin Ravindra hit 32 from 23. The result was clear early, with Seattle having too few runs to defend.

ALSO READ: What is the meaning of 'Kepke'? Herschelle Gibbs commented on Rohit Sharma's instagram post

Twitter reactions after WF wins 26th match of MLC 2025

🔥 Mukhtar looks to give WF an early finish!

📺 Watch live and exclusive on https://t.co/ktQmbfqs7H#MLC | #WFvSO pic.twitter.com/EG7sTflfNh

— Willow TV US (@willowtv) July 5, 2025

😱 Seattle Orcas crashed to their 3rd lowest total in MLC history - bundled out for just 82!

📉 Their 3-match winning streak comes to an end as they went down by 8 wickets to Washington Freedom#MLC2025 pic.twitter.com/kkxjRR5dvM

— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) July 5, 2025

Dominant win for Washington Freedom over the Seattle Orcas! 💪💙

Glenn Maxwell shines with the ball, earning Player of the Match for his 3-wicket haul.🎖️#WFvSOR #MLC2025 #GlennMaxwell #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/Qe4TGL8XRV

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) July 5, 2025

Three wickets each for Glenn Maxwell, Saurabh Netravalkar and Jack Edwards as Washington Freedom bowled out Seattle Orcas for 82 https://t.co/1KN2QeEMiM #MLC2025 pic.twitter.com/SYe3HxnBZo

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) July 5, 2025

AI Simulation, WSF vs SEO MLC 2025 | Washington Freedom beat Seattle Orcas by six wickets in Lauderhill. pic.twitter.com/WAksmqHOZC

— SportsCafe (@IndiaSportscafe) July 4, 2025

The @WSHFreedom have come out in the fiercest of fashions, taking FIVE wickets in the #LexusPowerplay! What a performance this is and on Independence Day no less! 🦅🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/K9yDbFee17

— Cognizant Major League Cricket (@MLCricket) July 5, 2025

MLC 2025 Match 26: Washington Freedom beat Seattle Orcas by 8 wickets
🇺🇸🏆🏏💥https://t.co/ojAvrhgBQz pic.twitter.com/aG0nY3ojyF

— Cricket World (@Cricket_World) July 5, 2025

On Thursday evening (June 26), the Los Angeles Knight Riders vs Washington Freedom (LAS vs WAS) match will be played in the 17th match of the MLC 2025 at Grand Prairie Stadium (Grand Prairie). 

MLC 2025, Match 17: LAS vs WAS Probable XIs

Los Angeles Knight Riders Predicted Playing XI: Alex Hales, Sunil Narine, Unmukt Chand (wk), Rovman Powell, Nitish Kumar, Saif Badar, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Holder (Captain), Shadley van Schalkwyk, Ali Khan

Washington Freedom Predicted Playing XI: Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Owen, Andries Gous (wk), Glenn Maxwell (Captain), Jack Edwards, Glenn Phillips, Ian Holland, Matthew Forde, Obus Pienaar, Saurabh Netravalkar, Mukhtar Ahmed

See Also: MLC 2025: Probable Playing XI for LAS vs WAS

MLC 2025, Match 17: LAS vs WAS Dream11 Top Captains And Vice-captains

Top 3 Dream11 Captain choices

Mitchell Owen: Mitchell Owen is the third leading run-scorer in the MLC 2025 with 245 runs in five innings with an average of 49.00 and a strike rate of 204.16, including two half-centuries. His scores in this tournament are 39, 25, 32, 60, and 89 runs. Also, he has taken nine wickets in this tournament, including two three-fers. 

Glenn Maxwell: Australian star Glenn Maxwell has scored 185 runs in five innings of this tournament, including a smashing century. In their previous meeting, Maxwell smashed the match-winning 106 not out. Also, the off-spinner has taken three wickets in the last two innings. 

Unmukt Chand: Unmukt Chand is the leading run-scorer for Los Angeles Knight Riders this season with 191 runs in five innings, including two half-centuries. His scores in this tournament are 53, 22, 0, 86*, and 30 runs, respectively.

Top 3 Dream11 Vice-captain choices

Ian Holland: Ian Holland has taken seven wickets in five matches in the MLC 2025, including a four-fer. However, he picked up only two wickets in the last three games, including wicketless bowling figures in the last fixture.  

Shadley van Schalkwyk: Shadley van Schalkwyk has picked up eight wickets in five matches of the MLC 2025, including two three-wicket hauls. He has also scored 53 runs in four innings in this tournament, including his highest score of 27 runs. 

Rachin Ravindra: New Zealand cricketer Rachin Ravindra has scored 115 runs in five innings with a strike rate of 225.49. His scores in this tournament are 42, 44, 8, 10, and 11 runs, respectively. He has also taken one wicket this season. 

The IPL 2025 season proved to be a forgettable one for Chennai Super Kings, with the five-time title winners finishing bottom of the table. CSK managed only 4 victories in 14 games and did not make it to the playoffs, showing neither consistency nor fire across departments. The franchise also failed to find the right combination under a new leadership era after MS Dhoni.

Though some young players and old-timers gave glimpses of promise, some members of the squad were woefully short. In the build-up to the IPL 2026 auction, a drastic overhaul is on the cards, and the following six players are expected to be released:

1. Rachin Ravindra

New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra played 8 games, making 191 runs at an average of 27.29 and a strike rate of 128.19 with two half-centuries. He lacked consistency, though, and more often than not failed to make an impression from his starts. His left-arm spin was not properly utilized, having very little effect. With CSK looking for a more attacking and multi-faceted top-order player, Ravindra will probably be let go.

2. Sam Curran

Sam Curran featured in 5 matches, scoring 114 runs with an average of 22.80 and a strike rate of 135.71. With the ball, he scalped 5 wickets but conceded runs in plenty, ending with an economy of 11.08. He was bought by CSK in the IPL 2025 auction for INR 2.40 Cr. Even though he has had past CSK experiences, he did not contribute much in either form in 2025. As his price is high and he didn't yield much return, CSK might unload him to accommodate more effective overseas players.

3. Vijay Shankar

Vijay Shankar scored 118 runs from 5 games at an average of 39.33 and a strike rate of 129.67, including one half-century. He was acquired by CSK for ₹1.2 crore at the IPL 2025 auction. But his contribution did not have any match-winning value, and he wasn't given a chance to bowl. His existence as a reserve Indian all-rounder is redundant in CSK's new team dynamic. With younger options present, his chances of being retained are less.

4. Deepak Hooda

Deepak Hooda's season was not good, with just 31 runs in 6 games at a woeful average of 6.20 and a strike rate of 75.61. He was acquired by CSK at the 2025 IPL Auction for INR 1.7 crore. Despite being experimented with in the middle order, he couldn't push the game along or steady the ship in crisis situations. He did not get a bowl and exerted no impact in any match. With his form not being good and no single good performance, he is sure to be released.

See Also: Big Breaking! RCB list for player releasing out ahead of IPL 2026

5.  Jamie Overton

Jamie Overton was signed by CSK during the IPL 2025 auction. jamie Overton played only 2 matches in IPL 2025, conceding runs at a very high economy rate of 13.83 with the bat scoring 15 at a strike rate of 214.29. He was picked as a pace-bowling all-rounder but never earned the trust of the management for his services in the big matches. With so little contribution and overseas spots being precious, Overton is expected to be one of the first few to be let go of releases.

6. Rahul Tripathi

Rahul Tripathi was acquired by CSK for INR 3.40 crore at the 2025 IPL Auction. He played 5 games and managed just 55 runs at an average of 11.00 and a strike rate of 96.49. As brought in for adding depth to the top order, he could not get into rhythm or contribute at all. His failure put more pressure on a batting lineup already fragile. With form and confidence being lacking, his retention also looks extremely unlikely.

On Tuesday, June 17 (Indian time June 18), the Washington Freedom vs Los Angeles Knight Riders (WAS vs LAS) match will be played in the eighth match of the MLC 2025 at the Oakland Coliseum in Oakland.   

Andre Russell: Caribbean all-rounder Andre Russell isn't consistent enough with the bat at present. After scoring 57* and 38 in early May of the IPL 2025, Russell has scored 0, 15, 0, and 1 in the last four games, respectively. In this MLC 2025, Russell recorded one wicket in each of the two games, but also conceded 40+ runs in each game. 

Sunil Narine: Although Sunil Narine scored a duck and was wicketless in the last game for Los Angeles Knight Riders, he started the MLC 2025 with 27 off 13 balls after picking up one wicket.

Glenn Maxwell: Although Glenn Maxwell isn't in strong form, he scored a match-winning 38 not out off 20 balls in their last game with the help of three fours and three sixes. 

An absolute run feast ensued on the opening day of the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 as bowlers on both sides disappeared to all parts. In the showdown that was immensely dominated by San Francisco Unicorns, Washington Freedom's Rachin Ravindra did manage to have some fun before the curtains came down. The premium Kiwi opener wreaked havoc during the early stages of the run chase to give Washington a flying start.

The 25-year-old joined the party during the fourth over of the run chase by targeting Bartlett. The Aussie quick was taken to the cleaners as Ravindra deposited him for four consecutive maximums. Subsequently, he took a single in the last ball of the over to retain strike and then went after Rauf immediately in the next over, dispatching him over midwicket for a scintillating six. Ravindra, along with Owen, outplayed the SFU bowling attack early doors on the back of their blistering strokeplay, and at one stage, victory seemed to be within sight. 

See also: Rachin Ravindra’s Phone Stolen from Hotel Room in Pakistan? The Truth Behind the News

Ravindra's six-hitting carnage

Rachin. Ruthless. Ravindra. 🔥#FreedomExpress #MLC2025 pic.twitter.com/uJNQJ1un7A

— Washington Freedom (@WSHFreedom) June 13, 2025

Washington Freedom blasted their way through the powerplay on the back of a quickfire 80-run opening stand between Ravindra and Owen. Ravindra couldn't push on further despite a promising start and was dismissed by Liam Plunkett on 42 (17). His innings comprised five sixes and two fours. That breakthrough opened the floodgates, and Washington began witnessing a procession of wickets at an alarming rate. 

WF failed to capitalize on the blazing start provided by Ravindra and Owen, and were unable to capitalize further and succumbed under intense scoreboard pressure. To keep up with the asking rate, the Washington Freedom batters attempted high-risk strokes far too often, leading to their eventual dismissals.

In the end, it all went downhill way too rapidly as the Washington Freedom were demolished for 146 inside the 14th over, giving San Francisco Unicorns, massive boost in their net run rate. Ravindra emerged as the leading run scorer for Washington in this game, followed by Owen and Edwards, who stitched notable scores of 39 (20) and 21 (7) respectively. 

Good News for CSK Fans: Foreign Stars Returning for IPL 2025

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans have something to happy about, Just before the IPL 2025 resumes, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has shared a positive update. He said that all of the team’s overseas players except for one will be joining the squad soon. The only player who won’t be available is England’s Jamie Overton. Overton is busy with England’s upcoming matches against the West Indies, which will keep him out of the remaining IPL games.

But apart from him, players like Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra from New Zealand, Sam Curran from England, Matheesha Pathirana from Sri Lanka, and Noor Ahmad from Afghanistan are all expected to return. This is a massive boost for the Chennai Super Kings; they have no more chances for CSK to qualify for 2025, but they will play for pride and fans, especially after the tournament was paused due to tensions between India and Pakistan. Foreign players were unsure about coming back, but the situation is looking better now.

🚨 GOOD NEWS FOR CSK FANS 🚨 [Bharat Sharma from PTI]

CSK CEO said "All CSK foreign players barring Jamie Overton are expected to join the squad ahead of IPL resumption". pic.twitter.com/qO7GwyYupu

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 14, 2025

The BCCI has been working hard to bring them back and ensure everyone’s safety in the IPL 2025 after India and Pakistan tensions.CSK’s next match is set for May 20, which gives the team time to regroup and prepare with their full squad after the India and Pakistan tensions. With their overseas players back in their squad, the team will be stronger and very balanced.

ALSO READ: RCB may have to play IPL 2025 without 7 major players

Fans can once again look forward to seeing the yellow army in full balance, and fans will enjoy the matches in Chepak, with their favorite stars back on the field. This news brings fresh hope for CSK as they look to finish the season on a high note. The stage is set, the players are returning, and the fans are ready. CSK is back in business and ready to play the remaining matches with full josh and enjoy every game, and for the fans' enjoyment and pride for CSK.

In the current IPL 2025 season, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) brought two unexpected changes to their playing eleven for the game against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 25. Two established players, Rachin Ravindra and Vijay Shankar, were not part of today's team.Let's see why they are not playing and what it indicates for CSK.

CSK vs SRH Match Details

• Date: April 25th, 2025
• Time:  7:30 PM IST
• Venue: Chennai

 Why Rachin Ravindra Is Not Playing
Rachin Ravindra, who began the season as an opener for CSK, has not been able to make a big impact with the bat. Though he is talented, his strike rate has been among the lowest of all openers this season. That implies that he was not scoring quickly enough, which is extremely crucial in T20 cricket.CSK management thought to do something new to inject some energy and aggression in the top order. So, Rachin was substituted with Dewald Brevis, who is a young aggressive player.The reason for the substitution was to provide the team with more opportunities to score quickly and apply pressure on the opposing team in the early stages of the game.

See Also: Abhishek Nayar gets back with the Knight Riders

 Why Vijay Shankar Is Not Playing
Vijay Shankar has also been excluded from the match today. In one of the earlier matches, he and MS Dhoni formed a long partnership but was too sluggish. Although they remained at the crease, they were not able to match the run rate that was necessary.That effort left one wondering whether he could close out matches under pressure. CSK's coach, Stephen Fleming, acknowledged that the middle order was not contributing enough, and it was hard to witness that slow pursuit unfold.To accelerate the scoring rate in the middle overs, Deepak Hooda replaced Shankar.

The 2025 IPL season has already provided plenty of thrilling cricket, with players showcasing remarkable performances across all facets of the game. One notable statistic that has captured attention is the number of dismissals effected by wicket-keepers. As we delve into this aspect, we highlight those players who have made a significant impact behind the stumps, contributing to their team's success with impressive wicket-keeping displays.

Interestingly, while many of these wicket-keepers are in the "0-5 range" for dismissals, their contributions have still been highly influential. Despite the relatively modest dismissal count, these players have demonstrated exceptional skills and composure behind the stumps, making them standout performers in IPL 2025. Their ability to read the game and execute key dismissals has played a pivotal role in their team's performance so far.

Top Dismissals in IPL 2025: Most dismissals for Rishabh Pant so far

• 5 - Rishabh Pant*
• 4 - Ishan Kishan 
• 4 - Quinton De Kock 
• 4 - Rachin Ravindra

1. Rishabh Pant (5 dismissals)

Rishabh Pant leads the list with 5 dismissals, continuing to establish himself as one of the most dynamic wicketkeepers in the IPL. While he's renowned for his aggressive batting, Pant has not let his wicketkeeping skills take a backseat. His performances behind the stumps have been crucial to his team's strategy. Whether it’s a quick stumping, a sharp catch, or a timely run-out opportunity, Pant has been consistently on point throughout the season. Known for his swashbuckling batting, Pant has proven to be a reliable wicketkeeper, making valuable contributions with the gloves and enhancing his team's performance.

2. Ishan Kishan (4 dismissals)

Ishan Kishan, the talented wicketkeeper-batter, has stood out in IPL 2025 with his all-around performance. With 4 dismissals so far, he has proven his worth behind the stumps as well as with the bat. His quick reflexes and ability to secure crucial dismissals have been vital to his team's performances. Known for his power-hitting at the top, Kishan has consistently delivered behind the stumps, making important contributions in the field while often going unnoticed.

See Also: PSL 2025: QUE vs KAR Prediction– Match 15, Who will win today?

3. Quinton de Kock (4 dismissals)

South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock continues to impress with his all-around skills in IPL 2025. With 4 dismissals so far, de Kock has proven to be a dependable asset for his team. His sharp reflexes and cricketing acumen make him a constant threat to opposing batters. Known for his composure under pressure, de Kock’s ability to execute stunning stumpings and catches has been a key factor in strengthening his team's fielding.

4. Rachin Ravindra (4 dismissals)

Rachin Ravindra, one of world cricket's most promising young talents, has made a mark in the 2025 IPL season with his all-rounder skills. The New Zealand cricketer has been impressive behind the stumps, recording 4 dismissals so far. Despite being new to the IPL, Ravindra’s quick reflexes and calm demeanor as a wicketkeeper have stood out. His performances behind the stumps demonstrate his readiness to rise to the occasion, with his key dismissals playing a crucial role in giving his team an edge over the opposition.

Kane Williamson is not playing in the IPL this year, but the New Zealand veteran still has a sharp eye on the future of cricket. During a recent chat on the Bombay Sport Exchange show by the Times of India, he was asked a pretty simple question: who are the next big stars of world cricket?

And as always, Kane gave a calm, thoughtful answer. He named five young players who, in his opinion, could define the next era of international cricket once the likes of himself, Kohli, Smith, and Root move on.

Here’s the list he gave, and it’s a solid mix of flair, form, and future potential:

• Yashasvi Jaiswal
• Shubman Gill
• Rachin Ravindra
• Harry Brook
• Cameron Green

Let’s take a look at why each name was cut.

ALSO SEE: T20 Mumbai League ropes in star players; Iconic batter becomes League's face

Yashasvi Jaiswal – The Breakout Star from India

Yashasvi’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. At just 22, he’s already racked up nearly 1,800 runs in Test cricket at an average above 50, and he’s done it with flair. His aggressive strokeplay and fearless attitude make him a perfect fit for modern-day cricket, but it’s his calm under pressure that truly sets him apart. He’s also part of India’s T20 World Cup-winning squad and looks like someone who’s just getting started. ODI debut? Still pending. But it’s only a matter of time.

Shubman Gill – The Future Captain in the Making

Shubman Gill carries the aura of a future Indian captain, mature, composed, and incredibly consistent. With a classical technique and an eye for big runs, he’s already proven himself across formats. Nearly 2,800 runs in ODIs at an average close to 60, five Test centuries, and a cool head in high-pressure situations make him one of the most complete young batters in the game today. Whether it’s the IPL or a tense Test match overseas, Gill rarely looks out of place.

Rachin Ravindra – New Zealand’s Next Big All-Rounder

A true all-format asset, Rachin Ravindra has quietly become a key figure in New Zealand’s plans. He’s already notched up over 1,000 Test runs, including a mammoth 240, and can bowl handy left-arm spin. What makes Rachin special is his adaptability. he can bat anywhere in the order, adjust to any format, and still find ways to make an impact. Kane Williamson sees in him a mirror of the dependable Kiwi spirit.

Harry Brook – England’s Bazball Poster Boy

Harry Brook is redefining what aggressive Test batting looks like. Just 24 Tests in and he’s already closing in on 2,300 runs at an outrageous average close to 60. Eight centuries. A top score of 317. And he’s just been handed England’s white-ball captaincy. Brook is bold, fearless, and thrives under pressure, a perfect match for England’s high-octane approach under the Bazball banner. If there’s one player who looks like he could rewrite Test cricket's norms, it’s Brook.

Cameron Green – Australia’s Powerhouse in Progress

Cameron Green’s numbers may not scream superstar just yet, but the potential is unmistakable. He’s an old-school Test all-rounder with modern-day power over 1,300 runs in Tests, a top score of 174 not out, and the ability to crank it up with the ball. Injuries have slowed him down a bit, but when fully fit, Green is one of the most impactful players Australia has. Think of him as the long-term engine room of Aussie cricket.

ALSO SEE: Moment of the Match: Jaiswal to Starc – 'Very Well Bowled, Legend'

Still In the Game, Just Off the Field

Even though Kane went unsold in the last IPL auction, he’s stayed involved with the league through commentary and mentoring. He spent time at a local academy in Mumbai recently, sharing his experience with young players. When asked which shot he’d love to borrow from another batter, he smiled and picked Virat Kohli’s wristy leg-side flick. A classy choice, and a nice nod to a fellow great.

Williamson will be joining the Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League later this month. After that, he’s expected back in New Zealand colours for a T20I tri-series in July featuring Zimbabwe and South Africa. Kane’s picks for the next Fab Five show he’s been watching closely and thinking ahead. These five have already made their mark, but with someone like Williamson backing them, the spotlight is only going to get brighter.