August 2025 - News Digest

August 31

Tilak Varma, Sai Kishore replaced in South Zone squad for Duleep Trophy

South Zone have roped in Shaik Rasheed and Ankit Sharma as replacements for Tilak Varma and Sai Kishore in the Duleep Trophy. While Sai Kishore is nursing a finger injury, Tilak is Asia Cup bound. Meanwhile, Vijaykumar Vyshak, who was not cleared by the NCA due to injury, has been replaced by Kaushik.

Mohd Azharuddin (KCA) is the captain of South Zone whereas Jagadeesan (TNCA) is the vice-captain. The selectors have unanimously approved these changes during a Zoom call on Sunday.

South Zone squad: Mohammed Azharuddeen (c&wk), N. Jagadeesan (vc), Tanmay Agarwal, Shaik Rasheed, Devdutt Padikkal, Mohit Kale, Salman Nizar, T Vijay, Ankit Sharma, Tanay Thyagarajan, MD Nidheesh, Ricky Bhui, Basil NP, Gurjapneet Singh, Snehal Kauthankar, Kaushik

August 23

MCA unveils Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) unveiled its much-awaited museum inside the Wankhede Stadium complex on Saturday (August 23). Christened the MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum, the archival centre spans 8,000 sq. ft. The museum will be thrown open to the public soon.

A highpoint of the museum is life size statues of Sunil Gavaskar and Sharad Pawar at its entrance. These statues symbolize the enduring spirit of Mumbai cricket and its illustrious champions who have inspired generations, the MCA said. Inside, the museum offers a unique blend of physical memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and advanced digital experiences.

The highlight of the museum is a priceless collection of rare and iconic memorabilia gifted by Mumbai's legendary cricketers, showcasing the rich legacy of Mumbai cricket and its lasting impact on Indian and world cricket.

"I am truly honoured to have this museum named after me. Mumbai's cricketing journey - from its maidans to the global stage - is a story of talent, dedication and passion. This museum celebrates that rich legacy and the many unsung heroes who have worked behind the scenes to support and grow the sport. I hope it continues to inspire future generations to carry forward the proud spirit of Mumbai cricket," said Sharad Pawar, a former MCA, BCCI and ICC head and presently a Member of the Rajya Sabha

"I must say I've always considered myself a student of cricket history. In our playing days, there were no videos - only books and magazines. We learned from reading, from autobiographies, and from the written word. That's why seeing this museum makes me genuinely happy. MCA has done a wonderful job, not just for Mumbai cricket but for Indian cricket as a whole. Young players who visit will find inspiration in the stories and history preserved here," said Gavaskar.

MCA President Ajinkya Naik.added, "As the president of the MCA, I am proud that the statues of two Masters - Sharad Pawar saheb and Sunil Gavaskar sir - now stand as a source of inspiration for generations to come. Sharad Pawar saheb, the master of administration, has with his visionary leadership taken MCA, BCCI, and ICC to greater heights. Sunil Gavaskar, the Little Master, through his runs, grit, and historic contribution to Indian cricket, has defined an era and inspired countless cricketers. Both legends embody excellence, dedication, and commitment, and their presence here will continue to guide and motivate youngsters towards greatness in cricket and beyond."

August 8

Lehmann to continue at Northamptonshire

Darren Lehmann has signed a one-year contract extension at Northamptonshire County Cricket Club. The Australian will now continue in his role as the club's head coach until at least the end of the 2027 season.

"I've absolutely loved my time so far and I'm really excited to have committed for an extra year," Lehmann said in a statement issued by the club.

Lehmann has originally signed a deal until the end of the 2026 season.

"The Club, fans and the sponsors have all been fantastic to me, so I had no problem agreeing to another year. "The support has been unbelievable. We've been good in patches and not so good in others, but they're always behind us which I love."

Northamptonshire made the quarterfinals of the T20 Blast competition under Lehmann's tutelage. Club CEO Ray Payne welcomed his decision to opt for a year's extension.

"Darren has had an exceptional impact at Northamptonshire from the moment he arrived. "He's brought a really positive culture to the Club, with players and staff all working as hard as they can to be a team that Northamptonshire fans can be proud of. "We're so pleased that he's committed until at least the end of 2027, and that he believes in the direction we're heading in."