The Shani Trophy is all set to delight cricket fans next month with top Indian players like Yuzvendra Chahal, Riyan Parag and Rahul Tewatia confirmed to take part in the unique format of the tournament.
The tournament will be hosted by Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA), Lucknow Cricket Association and Divya Future Sports. Shani's Trophy will give fans a unique experience of watching retired cricket legends, current Ranji trophy players and talented state-level cricketers in action together.
Yuzvendra Chahal, Riyan Parag and Rahul Tewatia starred in Shani's trophy
This competition is scheduled to be held in Lucknow. Apart from former Rajasthan Royals teammates Yuzvendra Chahal, Riyan Parag and Rahul Tewatia, Tamil Nadu's rising star Bai Sudharsan and veteran Jayant Yadav will also participate in this Shani bash, according to the organizers.
The Shani Trophy will be played in an exciting 25 over format with 10 teams competing in high stakes matches. Fans can enjoy two matches every day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon or evening. Recently, Indian Chief Selector Chetan Sharma has been appointed as the brand ambassador of the Shani Trophy to attract more crowds.
Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association and Lucknow Cricket Association have officially approved this event as per a letter to Mr. Sumit Shukla who is the Chairman of Shani Trophy and Managing Director of Divya Future Sports. In partnership with Divya Future Sports, UPCA aims to create a cricket tournament of the highest quality that blends tradition with innovation.
We are excited to bring this unique format to life: Sumit Shukla
Sumit Shukla said in an official statement (quoted by News18): “We are delighted to bring this unique format to life in collaboration with Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) and Cricket Association of Lucknow (CAL). With the support of UPCA and CAL along with the participation of some of the best cricketers, we aim to provide an unforgettable cricketing experience for the fans. “
Notably, Yuzvendra Chahal and Riyan Parag will not be seen together in pink for Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming IPL 2025, while the star Indian leg-spinner has joined Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the next season. Chahal will play under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2025.
Chahal last played for India in 2023 but was part of India's 2024 World Cup winning squad. But he didn't get a single game in the tournament. However, the leg-spinner has been a regular in the IPL where he has taken 205 wickets in 160 matches so far. Chahal and Dhanashree got married in December 2020.
Yuzvendra Chahal in headlines for personal life
However, Yuzvendra Chahal is currently in the news for reportedly getting divorced from Dhanashree Verma. Speculation of a possible split began after a series of cryptic social media posts by the couple.
Adding to the buzz, Chahal's latest Instagram story – a blurry image of a video call – has sparked curiosity among fans. This mysterious post led to questions about his relationship status.