United News of Bangladesh

Australia and England will mark the 150th anniversary of Test cricket with a historic day-night match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2027, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed. According to a statement from Cricket Australia, the pink-ball Test will be played from March 11-15, 2027, making it the first time Australia’s men’s team will play a day-night Test at the iconic venue, the ICC website reports. The MCG holds special significance in cricket history, having hosted the first-ever Test match between the two nations in 1877. To celebrate the centenary of that game, Australia and England played a Centenary Test at the same venue in 1977, with Australia winning by 45 runs— the same margin as the original Test match. A second centenary Test was held in 1980 at Lord’s to commemorate the first Test played in England in 1880. India wins ICC Champions Trophy for the third time The upcoming 150th-anniversary Test will be a grand occasion, reflecting both the sport’s rich history and its modern evolution. “The 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG will be one of the great cricket events, and playing under lights will be a fantastic way to celebrate both our game’s rich heritage and Test cricket’s modern evolution,” said Todd Greenberg, CEO of Cricket Australia. “It will also help ensure more people are able to attend and watch what will be a fantastic occasion,” he added. Earlier this year, Australia’s women’s team played the first-ever day-night Test at the MCG, also against England, as part of the Women’s Ashes. Greenberg also recalled the Centenary Test’s memorable moments, including David Hookes’ five consecutive boundaries off Tony Greig, Rick McCosker batting with a broken jaw, and Derek Randall’s defiant century. “I’m sure the 150th anniversary Test will create its own lifelong memories,” he said.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), despite showcasing some of the best football in Europe, is once again at risk of an early exit from the Champions League. The French league leaders, who have been eliminated at this stage in five of the past eight seasons, travel to Liverpool on Tuesday for the second leg of their last-16 tie, trailing 1-0 after the first match. The result from the first leg didn’t reflect PSG’s performance at Parc des Princes, where they dominated the match but failed to capitalize on numerous chances against Premier League leaders Liverpool. A late goal by Harvey Elliott sealed the win for Liverpool, with the French side having 28 shots compared to just two for the visitors. PSG coach Luis Enrique remains confident, stating, “We’ll go there and show ourselves to be a team that deserves to go through. We’ve got nothing to lose.” Elsewhere, Barcelona holds a slim 1-0 lead over Benfica, Inter Milan will host Feyenoord after a 2-0 away win, and Bayern Munich will face Bayer Leverkusen following a dominant 3-0 victory. PSG’s loss to Liverpool ended their 10-match winning streak and was their first defeat since November, but the team remains optimistic about a potential comeback. Since Enrique’s arrival, PSG has shifted away from relying on star power like Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe. The team has become more cohesive, with striker Ousmane Dembele and winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia playing key roles in their attacking success. PSG has demonstrated fluid attacking play and strong collective defense. Liverpool’s Alisson was instrumental in their victory, making nine saves, while PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma had no saves to make. Liverpool coach Arne Slot praised PSG as the "most complete team" his side has faced, noting their attacking quality, work ethic, and tactical approach under Enrique. In other ties, Barcelona will defend their narrow 1-0 advantage after Raphinha’s goal in Lisbon. Benfica coach Bruno Lage remains hopeful, saying his team created many chances in the first leg. Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen faces a daunting task of overturning a 3-0 deficit against Bayern Munich. Coach Xabi Alonso is determined, saying, “The mindset has to be that if there is a chance, we will fight for it. Three goals? You never know. One goal can change everything.” History favors Bayern, who have reached the Champions League quarter-finals a record 22 times.  

Human Rights Watch has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to suspend Afghanistan's membership and bar the Taliban-controlled country from participating in international cricket. This request was made through an email sent to ICC Chair Jay Shah on February 3 and publicly released on March 7. The letter titled "Suspending the Afghanistan Cricket Board and Implementing a Human Rights Policy" called for the suspension of Afghanistan’s participation in cricket until women and girls are once again allowed to engage in education and sports within the country. Human Rights Watch, an independent NGO focused on human rights advocacy, stated that the ICC should adopt a human rights policy based on the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. The letter emphasized that despite the ICC's promises to enhance women's cricket, the Taliban's policies since their return to power in 2021 have severely restricted women's and girls' rights, including their freedom of movement, employment, and education beyond sixth grade. The email also highlighted the ICC's commitment to anti-discrimination, asserting that the governing body should ensure that cricket is inclusive and free from intimidation based on sex, gender, or marital status. It pointed out the inconsistency in the ICC's actions, as Afghanistan's men's team still receives financial and logistical support, while the women's team, which has been suspended, is denied the same resources. India wins ICC Champions Trophy for the third time Human Rights Watch further criticized the Taliban's ban on women's participation in cricket, calling it a violation of the Olympic Charter’s guarantee that "the practice of sport is a human right." The letter also referenced former Afghanistan women's players, who now live in exile, requesting ICC recognition of a refugee women's national team to allow them to train, compete, and receive ICC financial support. The email questioned why the ICC has not taken stronger action against the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), asking what steps are being taken to ensure the inclusion of women and girls in Afghan cricket. It also inquired about the support the ICC has provided or plans to offer to the ACB. Human Rights Watch concluded by urging the ICC to adopt a human rights framework, similar to other sports governing bodies, and to pressure the Taliban to allow Afghan women and girls to participate in sport. The ICC has yet to comment on the matter. Source: ESPNcricinfo

Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah has opted out of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) central contract, which was officially announced on Monday. While BCB had initially included him in the contract for 2025, the veteran cricketer requested to be removed. Mahmudullah, who has already retired from Test and T20I cricket, recently endured a difficult campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy. His longtime teammate Mushfiqur Rahim, who also struggled in the tournament, announced his ODI retirement on March 5. However, Mushfiqur remains in the central contract under Category ‘A’ but will be moved to Category ‘B’ starting this month. Fast bowler Taskin Ahmed is the only player in the highest category, ‘A+’, earning a monthly salary of BDT 10 lakh. BCB thanks Mushfiqur Rahim for remarkable ODI career Young pacer Nahid Rana has been included in the central contract for the first time in Category ‘B’, while Zakir Hasan, Rishad Hossain, and Tanzid Hasan have also earned their maiden contracts under Category ‘C’. Meanwhile, Soumya Sarkar and Shadman Islam have returned to the contract list after missing out last year. Several well-known names, including Shakib Al Hasan, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Zakir Hasan, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, and Nayeem Hasan, have been excluded from the contract. Updated Salary Categories for 2025: Category ‘A+’ (BDT 10 lakh/month): Taskin Ahmed. Category ‘A’ (BDT 8 lakh/month): Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim (to move to ‘B’ from March). Category ‘B’ (BDT 6 lakh/month): Mominul Haque, Taijul Islam, Mahmudullah (until March), Mustafizur Rahman, Towhid Hridoy, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana. “A mere social post wasn’t enough”: Tamim honours Mushfiqur after ODI retirement Category ‘C’ (BDT 4 lakh/month): Shadman Islam, Soumya Sarkar, Zakir Ali, Tanzid Hasan, Shariful Islam, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan, Mehedi Hasan. Category ‘D’ (BDT 2 lakh/month): Nasum Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed. 

India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, avenging their 2000 loss and becoming the only team to win the title three times. On Sunday (March 9) final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Rohit Sharma’s team beat the Kiwis by four wickets. New Zealand, batting first after winning the toss, scored 251 runs by losing 7 wickets. In response, India chased down the target with one over to spare and four wickets in hand. New Zealand set 252-run target for India in Champions Trophy final India captain Rohit Sharma laid the foundation for his team’s win by scoring a inning-high 76 runs as an opener. His leadership also played a key role in restricting New Zealand's innings, preventing them from posting a higher total. For his all-around contribution, he was awarded the Player of the Match in the final. In addition to Sharma, Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (29) stabilized the middle order. Towards the end, Lokesh Rahul’s 34 (not out) completed the chase. On the other hand, Mitchell Bracewell, despite taking two wickets for just 26 runs in 10 overs, including a maiden, failed to lead his team to victory.

Prime Bank Cricket Club carved their name in the record books with a 422 for 8 before bowling out Brothers Union for 249, securing a big 173-run victory in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Sunday. It was a historic day for List ‘A’ cricket in Bangladesh, as Prime Bank became the first team in the country to breach the 400-run mark in a 50-over match. Opener Mohammad Naim stole the show with a blistering 176 off 125 balls, smashing 18 fours and 8 sixes to power his team to an unprecedented total. Batting first after losing the toss, Naim and Sabbir Hossain (73 off 63) provided an explosive start, adding 140 runs in just 18.2 overs. Even after Sabbir’s departure, Naim kept the momentum alive, forming crucial partnerships with Zakir Hasan (26) and Abdullah Al Mamun (40 off 22) before departing in the 39th over. Santner confident as New Zealand ready for Champions Trophy final against India The late fireworks came from Sajjadul Haque (50 off 37) and Rishad Hossain (17 off 8), ensuring that Prime Bank crossed the historic 400-run barrier. Al-Amin Hossain (3 for 77) was the most successful bowler for Brothers Union, but he and his teammates struggled to contain the relentless onslaught. In reply, Brothers Union crumbled under the scoreboard pressure, despite a fighting 96 off 110 balls from Aich Mollah. They lost wickets at regular intervals, with only Alok Kapali (30 off 17) and Myshukur Rahaman (34 off 48) offering some resistance. Prime Bank’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Rishad Hossain (3 for 66) leading the way. Hasan Mahmud, Khaled Ahmed, and Shamim Hossain picked up two wickets each, dismantling Brothers Union in 42.3 overs.

New Zealand posted 251 for seven in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final at Dubai, setting India a target of 252 to claim the title. New Zealand’s innings was a mix of early struggles and late acceleration, with Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell leading their fightback. Indian spinners were outstanding, containing runs on the crucial moments, and preventing New Zealand batters from scoring quickly. Mitchell anchored the innings with a patient 63 off 101 balls, while Bracewell provided the finishing push with an aggressive 53 off 40 deliveries. The Black Caps got off to a promising start, with Rachin Ravindra scoring a quick 37 off 29 balls. Dhawan credits India’s tactical shift for Champions Trophy success However, wickets fell at crucial intervals, including captain Kane Williamson (11), who was caught and bowled by Kuldeep Yadav. By the halfway mark, New Zealand were 108 for four, struggling to build partnerships against India's disciplined bowling. Glenn Phillips contributed 34, but it was Bracewell’s late surge that ensured New Zealand passed 250-plus total. India’s bowlers, led by Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav, kept the scoring in check. Both picked up two wickets each, with Varun conceding just 45 runs in his 10 overs. Ravindra Jadeja was also economical, taking one wicket while giving away only 30 runs in his full quota. Mohammed Shami had a tough outing, finishing with figures of one for 74 in nine overs, while Hardik Pandya remained wicketless in his three expensive overs, conceding 30 runs.

Former Indian batter Shikhar Dhawan believes India’s success was ensured with the decision to include an extra spinner in the middle of the ICC Champions Trophy. India marched to the final without suffering any defeat. In the final, they are taking on New Zealand who they beat in the group-stage game.  Dhawan pointed to their group-stage clash against New Zealand as a key moment when the team’s strategy clicked into place. That was the game where leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, playing just his second ODI, delivered a stunning five-wicket haul (5 for 42), cementing his place in the squad. “India have played great cricket throughout … but a key moment came in a change of personnel midway through the competition,” Dhawan told the ICC. The spinner’s impact has convinced Dhawan that India will lift the trophy on Sunday, especially given the spin-friendly conditions in Dubai. Santner confident as New Zealand ready for Champions Trophy final against India “I believe India’s spinners will be too strong for New Zealand’s batters, who will find it hard to get hold of Varun Chakaravarthy – he will play a major role,” he said. “Our batting unit is doing very well, the whole team is playing good cricket, and I think – and hope – that will continue.” Beyond Chakaravarthy, Dhawan also praised the contributions of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami. Kohli has been India’s batting anchor, while Shami has played a crucial role despite Dubai’s spin-friendly surfaces. Shami’s performance has been especially crucial in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who is recovering from injury. “To win the Champions Trophy, you have to have the whole team performing well,” Dhawan said. “One player can win you a game but not a trophy. India have done that throughout.”

All eyes will be on Rachin Ravindra in the ICC Champions Trophy final when his team New Zealand takes on India. Rachin has quickly built a reputation as a player for the big stage, consistently delivering in ICC tournaments. Now, the 25-year-old has got a chance to prove his mettle once again.  Rachin first announced himself in ICC events during the 2023 Cricket World Cup, where he stunned the cricketing world with a brilliant century in his very first innings of the tournament. Coming in after Will Young was dismissed for a golden duck against England, he played a match-winning knock of 123 not-out off 96 balls, leading New Zealand to a nine-wicket victory. That was just the beginning. Rachin went on to score two more centuries in the World Cup, finishing with an average of 64. Now, in the Champions Trophy, he has carried that form forward, amassing 251 runs in four innings at a strike rate of 106, including a crucial 108 off 101 balls in the semi-final against South Africa. His consistency in ICC tournaments is remarkable, averaging 63.76 with the bat while striking at a rapid pace. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who spent nearly two hours at the crease with Rachin in the semi-final, praised the young star’s ability to perform under pressure. “It's always great to bat with him,” Williamson said to the ICC. “He puts the team first and plays with freedom. He’s so gifted, really confident, and clear about what he wants to do. We've seen him shine in big tournaments before, and he’s done it again here.” India, New Zealand’s opponent in the final, is well aware of the threat Rachin poses. Top-ranked ODI batter Shubman Gill said his rival’s potential impact. “He's a very dangerous batter at the top, and we’ll try to get his wicket early. If we can do that, we’ll be in the game,” Shubman said to ICC. With New Zealand aiming to end a 25-year drought in ICC white-ball tournaments, Rachin’s role becomes even more vital. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives his team an edge, especially on a Dubai pitch that has favored bowlers throughout the tournament. The stakes are high, and the pressure is immense. But for Rachin, the biggest moments seem to bring out his best. His batting display will be crucial factor for New Zealand in the final.

Mitchel Santner, the New Zealand captain, said his team is confident as they are ready to take on India for the second time in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai.  While expressing confidence, the New Zealand captain said maintaining a consistent approach will be key for them in the final. “It's easy to say it's just another game, it's obviously not, but I think the way you approach it has to be the same,” Santner said at a press conference on the eve of the final.   “We've done a lot of good things in this tournament, and we’re just trying to build on them. It’s the biggest stage tomorrow, so the key is to stay confident, keep a relaxed environment, and let the guys enjoy the occasion,” the New Zealand captain added.  Before the final, New Zealand faced India once in this tournament and lost that match. But Santner said the experience of playing in Dubai before will help them do well in the coming match.  “You get to the business end of these tournaments, and it’s about standing up on the day,” he added. “We know we have to put in a good performance, but at the same time, we don’t want to get overawed by the occasion.” Ahead of the final battle, New Zealand’s biggest worry is the fitness of Matt Henry, who has taken the most wickets in this tournament so far. The pacer has injured his shoulder in the match against South Africa and is uncertain for the final.  India faces New Zealand in budding rivalry at Champions Trophy final “Matt’s going to have a bowl today, and we’ll assess his condition before making a decision,” Santner said in the press conference.  The Kiwi skipper also weighed in on India's bowling attack, particularly leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who took five wickets against New Zealand in the group match.   “He's a world-class bowler with a little bit of mystery,” Santner said. ”We’ve analyzed more footage, and the boys will be ready this time. We know what his threats are—especially that 115kph armball that got me!” It’s been two and a half decades since New Zealand won an ICC event. They are now aiming to end the drought in the final against India.