Comeback Man Pant, Warner Lead DC To 20-Run Win Over CSK

Comeback man Rishabh Pant hit a much-awaited fifty after David Warner's well-constructed 52 to set up Delhi Capitals' convincing 20-run win over Chennai Super Kings for whom veteran MS Dhoni's vintage knock was not enough to cross the line in their IPL match in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. Faced with a tough 192-run target, the Super Kings tried to scale it down through Ajinkya Rahane (45), Dhoni (37 not out) and Daryl Mitchell (34) but the Capitals carried far too many guns for them on the night. CSK ended up at 171 for six.

In the first session, Warner and Prithvi Shaw (43) overcame a slow start to share a 93-run opening stand before Pant's 32-ball 51 powered DC to a competitive 191 for 5.

Pant, who came into the tournament after recovering from a life-threatening road mishap in December 2022, belted four boundaries and three maximums for his first fifty in 15 months.

Left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed (2/21) set the tone for DC's defence with his twin strikes in the Power Play which led to its fruition by pacer Mukesh Kumar (3/21).

While Ruturaj Gaikwad's (1) trouble against left-arm seamers continued as he was done in by a superb inswinger, a frustrated Rachin Ravindra (2) holed out to Tristan Stubbs after a 12-ball stay as CSK slumped to 32 for 2 in six overs.

Rahane and Mitchell provided some stability with a 68-run stand, which included a 17-run over off DC's impact sub Rasikh Salam's second over but left-arm spinner Axar Patel ousted the New Zealander to break the alliance.

It was a Mukesh show thereafter as coming on to bowl after the 13th over, he struck twice in two balls to remove Rahane and Sameer Rizvi (0), leaving CSK at 102 for 5 in the 14th over.

Shivam Dube (18) was next to go as Mukesh kept bowling wide outside off and varied the pace as the batter eventually sent one straight to long-off.

With CSK needing 58 off 18 balls, Dhoni walked out to bat for the first time this season amid chants of "Dhoni Dhoni" and treated his fans to some delightful shots.

The former CSK skipper blasted two fours in the first three balls with Ahmed dropping a sitter in the second ball.

Dhoni then clobbered a six over extra cover off Ahmed, who ended up with three wides to concede 12 runs. But Mukesh conceded just 5 runs in the 19th over to crush CSK's dream, leaving them to make an impossible 41 off the last over.

Dhoni, who turned the clock back, however, gave his fans enough to cheer with a four and a one-handed six off the first two balls before producing another four and a last-ball six as CSK racked up 20 runs.

But the Dhoni hurricane came a trifle late.

Earlier, the in-form Warner slammed five boundaries and three maximums during his 35-ball 52, while Shaw, playing his first game this season, smashed two sixes and four boundaries in his 27-ball 43.

However, Pathirana produced a sensational catch to dismiss Warner and then returned to strike twice in three balls to bring CSK back into the game.

But Pant, who had looked in fine fettle in his two earlier innings, took his time to settle and then exploded in the end overs to take them close to a 200-total.

DC had a watchful start as they were going at run-a-ball rate for the first four overs.

Warner then picked Deepak Chahar for the special treatment, depositing him twice into the stands on the leg side. He also hit two fours on the off side to accumulate 18 off the fifth over.

Mustafizur Rahman was then taken to the cleaners with Shaw hitting three successive fours as DC posted their highest powerplay score of 62/0 of this IPL.

It took the brilliance of Pathirana to send Warner back as the Sri Lankan dived to his right and plucked the ball from thin air, leaving the Aussie stunned as Mustafizur drew first blood.

Shaw smashed another six to take DC past the 100-run mark but Jadeja dismissed him next ball, inducing an edge as Dhoni did the rest for his 300th dismissal -- the highest by a keeper in T20s.

With the two openers gone, the scoring rate dropped as skipper Pant struggled for early momentum.

Pathirana then unleashed a 150kph thunderbolt to uproot the middle-stump of Mitchell Marsh and then rattled Stubbs' timbers with an in-swinging yorker to leave DC at 134 for 4 in 15 overs.

Pant then stepped up, plundering a four and a six off Mustafizur and then launched into Pathirana, clobbering him for a six and two fours in the 19th over as 43 runs came off the final three overs. 

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Parag, Burger Have A Huge Role To Play For RR In IPL 2024: Boult

Rajasthan Royals' seasoned campaigner Trent Boult on Sunday picked Riyan Parag and Nandre Burger as the two players in his side who would have a key role to play in the ongoing IPL season for the 2008 winners. With two consecutive wins in the bag, the Sanju Samson-led side will take on a struggling Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday looking to build on their momentum. With knocks of 43 and 84 not out, Parag has showed his penchant for accumulating runs at a fast clip, signalling a heavy shift from someone who would struggle to harness his talent to one who seems to have come of age.

On the other hand, the young left-arm South African quick Burger has flourished sharing the new ball with Boult, grabbing three wickets so far to make a dent on his IPL debut.

"The first experience I had with him (Parag) was (at) a warm-up game here in the bubble when the IPL was based in Mumbai, a couple of years ago. He got 85 off probably 30 balls and I just thought he was the most amazing player," Boult recalled while talking to the media ahead of Royals' training session.

"Obviously, everyone is very happy to see him have some success early in the tournament this year. He's always been pinned as an exciting player to watch, so of course, it's always very satisfying to see a guy go out and his game come off," he said.

"One hundred per cent he's got a huge role to play for us in this tournament," Boult added.

Boult praised Burger for showing no struggles while playing a challenging white-ball tournament such as the IPL without much experience.

"Nandre is a guy that I've only just met, but bowls with good pace, good skills and comes from South Africa where conditions are very different," Boult said.

"He's brought his game in nicely and delivered very nicely for us so far, so another guy who should play a huge role in our tournament," he added.

Coming off a successful Test series against England wherein he smacked more than 700 runs, Yashasvi Jaiswal is yet to make his presence felt in this IPL. But Boult, on his part, was full of praise for his young teammate.

"(He is) a phenomenal player. Obviously (I have) played with him for a couple of years. I don't want to say last year was his breakout season but he's had brilliant 15-or-so months," Boult said.

"The guy is hungry for runs; he's desperate to get better. You can see it from the way he trains. He takes that game from the nets straight into the middle. There's no wonder why he is one of India's up-and-coming talents with the bat. A very exciting future (is) ahead for him," Boult added.

Boult, however, declined any suggestions that Rajasthan Royals are concerned with the form of opening batter Jos Buttler, who has had his struggle for runs of late.

"Jos Butler is a player whose record speaks for itself. You can't keep (scoring) runs every day but I know he's very eager to make a contribution and get his tournament underway. I don't think we have anything to worry about there," Boult said.

Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians' senior spin bowler Piyush Chawla confirmed that the five-time champions are still waiting to hear from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) over the status of world No 1 T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav.

Suryakumar has been sidelined since January this year as he has been stationed at NCA in Bengaluru while he recovers from injuries to his ankle and groin.

"NCA still has to look after that and coaches know more about it rather than us players," Chawla replied when asked about Suryakumar's progress.

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IPL 2024: Mayank Agarwal Steals Limelight With Pace As LSG Humble PBKS

Young Pace bowler Mayank Yadav grabbed three wickets while Mohsin Khan took two as Lucknow Super Giants defeated Punjab Kings by 21 runs despite openers Shikhar Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow's century partnership at Ekana Cricket Stadium on Saturday. Chasing a tough 200-run target for victory after LSG had made 199 for 8, Shikhar smashed a 50-ball 70, while Bairstow was equally belligerent in his 29-ball 42 as the duo amassed 102 runs for the opening wicket.

But Mayank struck when things were starting to look bleak for LSG, getting rid of Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh and Jitesh Sharma to return figures of 3/27. Mohsin chipped in with 2/34 as PBKS could only manage 178/5 in their 20 overs. Earlier, wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock (54), stand-in skipper Nicholas Pooran (42) and Krunal Pandya (43) played some big shots as the hosts made a strong bid to win at home. Sam Curran emerged the most successful PBKS bowler grabbing three wickets for 28 runs.

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IPL 2024 Points Table: LSG Register Big Win Against PBKS, Move Up To...

Lucknow Super Giants moved up to the fifth spot in the IPL 2024 points table with their first victory in this year's competition. Quinton De Kock, Krunal Pandya and Nicholas Pooran contributed with the bat while debutant Mayank Yadav impressed with the ball as LSG comprehensively defeated Punjab Kings by 21 runs. As a result of the defeat, PBKS are currently sixth with 2 points from 3 matches. Chennai Super Kings are the leaders followed by Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

India unearthed a new fast-bowling star in Mayank Yadav (3/27) who stole the limelight with his searing pace amid the usual flurry of monstrous hits as Lucknow Super Giants humbled Punjab Kings by 21 runs in the IPL here on Saturday.

Asked to bat first, floater Krunal Pandya's late blitz powered LSG to a competitive 199/8.

Opener Quinton de Kock top-scored for LSG with a 38-ball 54 but it was stand-in skipper Nicholas Pooran's 21-ball 42, which infused life into his team's innings in the middle overs.

On the back of two sixes and four boundaries, Krunal then scored at a strike rate of 200 to finish on a 22-ball 43 and give his side extra cushion.

That total proved to be enough for LSG, who registered their first win of this IPL thanks to Mayank's exploits. Punjab, who ended at 178/5, missed Liam Livingstone's service as he was injured.

In the 12th over of Punjab's innings, Mayank bowled the tournament's fastest ball at 155.8 kmph.

It was Mayank's extra pace that rattled Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh and Jitesh Sharma and led to their downfall. He consistently clocked 150 and above on the speedometer during his four-over spell, emerging as the night's hero.

This was after the dashing opening combo of Shikhar Dhawan (70 off 50 balls) and Bairstow (42 off 29 balls) quickly got the measure of what looked like a very good surface for batting, both getting a few boundaries to set the ball rolling.

PBKS skipper Dhawan made a statement of sorts when he reverse-swept M Siddharth over backward point.

Thanks to their attacking approach, PBKS raced to 61 for no loss in the power play and continued in the same vein with Dhawan bringing up his fifty with a maximum off Ravi Bishnoi.

Bairstow was equally marauding and struck Krunal Pandya for two successive sixes as the visitors crossed 100 in the 11th over.

Bishnoi put the brakes on PBKS' scoring with a tight 11th over, giving away just three runs, and that forced Bairstow to go after Mayank but the batter miscued and ended up throwing away his wicket. It was the fast bowler's maiden IPL wicket.

Prabhsimran blazed away to a seven-ball 19 before becoming Mayank's second victim.

Dhawan tried hard to keep his team in the game, but PBKS could not keep up with the asking rate and soon, the Punjab captain too succumbed to the pressure and Jitesh failed to tackle Mayank's extra pace.

Earlier, De Kock got the LSG innings underway with a splendid drive through mid-off for a boundary.

Playing the game as 'impact player' having handed over the leadership responsibility to Nicholas Pooran, KL Rahul didn't look convincing as he tried to flick Kagiso Rabada behind square on the leg-side.

Running in from a long way, a diving Harshal Patel made a valiant attempt to latch on to the ball but Rahul was lucky as the fielder could not pull off what would have been a blinder.

At the other end, De Kock was in his elements as he flayed Rabada over point for a four in the first delivery he faced from the South African speedster.

Next ball de Kock did one better, as he opened the face of the bat to whack Rabada over the backward point boundary for a six.

Rahul drove Arshdeep Singh down the ground for a maximum, and then, smashed another delivery in a similar fashion, but that fetched him a four.

Arshdeep, however, exacted his revenged when the left-arm seamer had the LSG batter caught by Jonny Bairstow at backward point for a nine-ball 15.

Devdutt Padikkal got himself two boundaries before being dismissed by Sam Curran (3/28).

Marcus Stoinis (19) hit two sixes before being bowled by Rahul Chahar as he looked to hoick the spinner on the on-side.

That brought Pooran into the middle and the West Indian quickly got into the groove, hitting Chahar for two sixes and a four for a 20-run over, which gave LSG's run rate a much-needed impetus.

Meanwhile, De Kock brought up his half century in 34 balls but a strategic timeout broke LSG's momentum as the left-handed South African batter top-edged a short Arshdeep delivery for wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma to complete an easy catch.

Pooran kept the scoreboard moving at a good rate until he dragged a Rabada delivery onto the stumps, a big blow for LSG at a crucial juncture.

New man Krunal Pandya did not waste any time to settle down, brilliantly dispatching a short Rabada delivery over midwicket for a maximum. Curran bowled a tight 17th over to halt LSG's charge, but Krunal got a flurry of boundaries to prop up LSG.

(With PTI inputs)

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Who Is Mayank Yadav - Young LSG Pacer With Fastest Ball Of IPL 2024

Young fast bowler Mayank Yadav impressed on his IPL 2024 debut for Lucknow Super Giants as he bowled the fastest delivery of this year's competition. Mayank looked in good rhythm and during the 12th over of the Punjab Kings innings, he produced a 155.8 kmph delivery that left Shikhar Dhawan in a spot of bother. The 21-year-old was bought in the auction in 2022 by LSG for the base price of Rs 20 lakh but was then replaced by Arpit Guleria due to an injury. During his T20 career, he has taken 12 wickets in 10 matches while in his List A career, Mayank has taken 34 wickets in 17 matches.

Mayank represents Delhi in the domestic circuit and although he took two important wickets in the semi-finals of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023-2024, his team was defeated by Punjab.

Earlier, Krunal Pandya's late blitz powered Lucknow Super Giants to a competitive 199/8 in their Indian Premier League match against Punjab Kings.

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Relishing the raw and exciting pace of the debutant who now has wickets to his name ?#PBKS require 71 from 36 delivers

Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia#TATAIPL |… pic.twitter.com/rELovBTYMz

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 30, 2024

Asked to bat first, opener Quinton de Kock top-scored for LSG with a 38-ball 54 but it was stand-in skipper Nicholas Pooran's 21-ball 42, which infused life into his team's innings in the middle overs.

On the back of two sixes and four boundaries, Krunal then scored at a strike rate of 200 to finish on a 22-ball 43 and give his side extra cushion.

De Kock got the LSG innings underway with a splendid drive through mid-off for a boundary.

Playing the game as 'impact player' having handed over the leadership responsibility to Nicholas Pooran, KL Rahul didn't look convincing as he tried to flick Kagiso Rabada behind square on the leg-side. Running in from a long way, a diving Harshal Patel made a valiant attempt to latch on to the ball but Rahul was lucky as the fielder could not pull off what would have been a blinder.

At the other end, De Kock was in his elements as he flayed Rabada over point for a four in the first delivery he faced from the South African speedster.

Next ball de Kock did one better, as he opened the face of the bat to whack Rabada over the backward point boundary for a six.

Rahul drove Arshdeep Singh down the ground for a maximum, and then, smashed another delivery in a similar fashion, but that fetched him a four.

Arshdeep, however, exacted his revenged when the left-arm seamer had the LSG batter caught by Jonny Bairstow at backward point for a nine-ball 15.

Devdutt Padikkal got himself two boundaries before being dismissed by Sam Curran.

Marcus Stoinis (19) hit two sixes before being bowled by Rahul Chahar as he looked to hoick the spinner on the on-side.

That brought Pooran into the middle and the West Indian quickly got into the groove, hitting Chahar for two sixes and a four for a 20-run over, which gave LSG's run rate a much-needed impetus.

Meanwhile, De Kock brought up his half century in 34 balls but a strategic timeout broke LSG's momentum as the left-handed South African batter top-edged a short Arshdeep delivery for wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma to complete an easy catch.

Pooran kept the scoreboard moving at a good rate until he dragged a Rabada delivery onto the stumps, a big blow for LSG at a crucial juncture.

New man Krunal Pandya did not waste any time to settle down, brilliantly dispatching a short Rabada delivery over midwicket for a maximum. Curran bowled a tight 17th over to halt LSG's charge, but Krunal got a flurry of boundaries to prop up LSG.

(With PTI inputs)

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"Gambhir, Senior Guy...": What Led To The Hug With Kohli - Revealed

Apart from the match, there was an on-field incident during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders game. During one of the strategic timeout in the RCB innings, Gautam Gambhir shook hands with Virat Kohli. They also hugged. For the uninitiated, Kohli and Gambhir have had a troubled past. The two stars were involved in a highly-publicised on-field spat that also involved Naveen-ul-Haq at the IPL 2024. However, when Kohli and Gambhir came face-to-face on Friday, a different scene played out at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. 

Former Indian cricket team star Irfan Pathan, who has played with both of Gambhir and Kohli, commented on the incident.  

"Gautam Gambhir, the senior guy, actually came forward. Sometimes you cross the line but as soon as that thing has gone past, when you meet in the future, when you meet now, you meet nicely. This is what we saw," Irfan Pathan said on Star Sports.

Talking about the game, With a scintillating batting display, the Kolkata Knight Riders became the first team to win away from home in this IPL following their comprehensive seven-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The tone of the game was set on the second ball of the first over when Philip Salt smoked the ball for a six over midwicket. In the next ball, within a blink of an eye, the ball was dispatched for a four. Salt struck another six to put the RCB on the backfoot. Mohammed Siraj, who bowled the first over of the inning, conceded 18 runs while defending 183.

Sunil Narine, who played his 500th T20 game, joined the party and both batters stiched up an opening stand of 86 runs.

After the opening pair was dimissed, Venkatesh Iyer and skipper Shreyas Iyer drove KKR's innings with some excaeptional stroke play.

Venkatesh completed his 50 in 29 balls but ended up losing his wicket on the next ball. Iyer and Rinku Singh stayed till the end to ensure RCB got across the finishing line with more than three overs to spare.

Earlier in the innings, put to bat, RCB batters Faf Du Plessis and Virat Kohli came out to the crease to open the innings.

Both batters put on a partnership of 17 runs and skipper Du Plessis was sent back to the pavillion after scoring eight runs.

After the skipper's dismissal, right-hand batter Cameron Green came to bat. The side completed their 50 on the fourth ball of the sixth over as Green slammed a boundary on the bowling of Sunil Narine.

Kohli and Green completed their 50-run partnership.

The Australian all-rounder was dismissed by Andre Russell on the last ball of the ninth over when the team score was 82 after, having scored 33 runs off 21 balls with the help of four boundaries and two sixes.

Green's dismissal saw the arrival of power hitter Glenn Maxwell.

Kohli completed his 50 in the 11th over as he took a single on the bowling of Varun Chakravarthy. In the same over, the Bengaluru franchise crossed the 100-run mark as Maxwell smashed a boundary on the penultimate ball of the over.

Maxwell was dismissed after scoring 28 runs on 19 balls with three fours and a six. The right-hand batter was dismissed by Narine.

After Maxwell's wicket, Rajat Patidar came to bat. He was dismissed when the team score was 144. The right-hand batter scored just three runs before going back to the dressing room.

After Patider's departure, wicketkeeper-batter Anuj Rawat came to bat. He was able to score only three runs before getting dismissed in the 18th over with a score of 151.

In the end, Dinesh Karthik played a quicfire cameo of 20 runs from just eight balls with the help of three maximums and Kohli finished his innings with an unbeaten 83 runs in 59 balls, which was laced with four boundaries and four sxes.

For KKR, two wickets each were grabbed by Harshit Rana and Russell One wicket was bagged by Sunil Narine.

With ANI inputs

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IPL: Venkatesh's Fifty, Narine's Cameo Carry KKR To 7-Wicket Win Over RCB

A ruthless fifty by Venkatesh Iyer worked as the catalyst for Kolkata Knight Riders' smooth seven-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL match at M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday. Venkatesh's 50 of 30 balls (3x4, 4x6) and stunning blitzes by openers Sunil Narine (47, 22b, 2x4, 5x6) and Phil Salt (30, 20b, 2x4, 2x6) propelled the Knight Riders past the 183-run target that the RCB set for them, which was built around Virat Kohli's skilful unbeaten 83. The KKR batters never got bogged down either by a slow pitch or RCB bowlers as they hunted down the target in just 16.5 overs.

Their approach on the night was best exemplified by Venkatesh, who is trying hard to regain his relevance in white ball formats, who added 75 runs for the third wicket with skipper Shreyas Iyer (39 not out).

The left-hander found his range from the word go, as pacer Alzarri Joseph suffered the brunt of his aggressive intentions.

He biffed the West Indian quick for 20 runs in an over that contained two sixes over cover and mid-wicket and a steered four to third man, besides a leg-bye boundary.

Shreyas, who was dropped on five by Yash Dayal off highly impressive local pacer Vysakh Vijayakumar (1/23), just had the supporting role on this night.

But for that crisp win, the KKR should profusely thank Narine and Salt, who subjugated RCB bowlers in the Power Play with astonishing power-hitting.

The visitors' chase began frenetically as Narine and Salt added 86 runs in just 6.3 overs through an array of dazzling shots.

Salt started the carnage, smoking pacer Mohammed Siraj for 18 runs in the very first over, finding two sixes and a four.

Narine followed suit. After smashing Joseph for two sixes in the third over, the left-hander vandalised the figures of left-arm pacer Dayal, clobbering him for 21 runs, including a four and two sixes in three consecutive balls in the sixth over.

There was a hint of sluggishness in the Chinnaswamy surface but there was hardly any effort by the RCB bowlers to exploit it with slower balls like their Knight Riders counterparts.

It required a yorker from left-arm spinner Mayank Dagar to break the opening wicket partnership as Narine failed to block the full-length delivery on the off-stump.

But by then, he had done his job.

Earlier, Kohli's skilful unbeaten fifty formed the foundation of RCB's competitive 182 for six.

Kohli (83, 59b, 4x4, 4x6) and Cameron Green (33 off 21b) milked 65 runs off 42 balls for the second wicket, the primary alliance in RCB innings, as the home side produced a two-faced effort on a track that was on the slower side.

An archetypal Dinesh Karthik cameo (20, 8b, 3x6) added gravitas to the RCB total as usual towards the end.

Skipper Faf du Plessis departed early as the Royal Challengers captain's attempt to scoop pacer Harshit Rana ended in the hands of Mitchell Starc inside the circle.

But a period of stability followed as Kohli and Green kept RCB on the track with a busy stand that saw them reach 61 for 1 in the Power Play segment.

Kohli dished out drives and lofts over covers, a new addition to his batting, sweeps and slog-sweep to fetch his runs, but the shot of the night was a swat-flick off Starc that sailed for a six.

In fact, no other shot really encapsulates Kohli's batting like the swat-flick - a child of his desire to find newer ways to sustain the domination of bowlers.

A simple snap of wrists and power emanating from a strong bottom hand can turn this traditionally gentle shot into a malevolent run-making option.

Kohli brought his fifty in 36 balls whereas other batters, except Green, struggled for timing.

But Green wasn't really bothered about such technical angles, as his batting was all about brute power.

Narine, who was playing his 500th T20 match, was given a hammering as Green took 15 runs off the spinner's first over that included a sequence of 4, 4, 6 - a sweep, slap past cover and a hoick over long-on.

However, the burgeoning alliance was snapped when Green's effort to play a pull off Andre Russell saw the ball crashing onto his stumps.

Glenn Maxwell, who was dropped twice on 11 and 21, en route a 19-ball 28 could not exploit the largesse of KKR fielders as his luck finally ran out against Narine.

A slash off the West Indian spinner ended in the hands of Rinku Singh at deep point, and Maxwell had to depart after adding 42 runs for the third wicket with Kohli.

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"Sometimes I Wonder If IPL Is Even Cricket": R Ashwin's Massive Remark

Premier India spinner R Ashwin reckons the IPL has grown so "huge" that at times cricket itself takes a backseat with players finding it hard to juggle between training and advertisement shoots. Ashwin spoke about the meteoric rise of the IPL since its inception in 2008 and how tough life on the road for a player can be over the course of the two-month long competition. "As a youngster coming into the IPL, I was only looking to learn from the big stars, I did not think about how the IPL would look 10 years down the line. I can say that, having been in the IPL for so many seasons, the IPL is huge," he said on Club Prairie Fire podcast. "Sometimes I wonder if IPL is even cricket, because sport takes a backstage (during IPL). It's so huge. We do end up practising in advertisement shoots and sets! That's where the IPL has gotten to," said Ashwin, who is an important member of the Rajasthan Royals squad.

The 37-year-old, who recently completed 500 Test wickets, started his IPL career with Chennai Super Kings and that led to him wearing the coveted India cap across formats.

Back in 2022, the IPL media rights were sold for a whopping Rs 48,390 crore for a five-year cycle, making it the second biggest league in the sporting world in terms of per match value after NFL, leaving behind the likes of English Premier League, NBA and Major League Baseball.

Ashwin spoke about his early days in the IPL and how the event exceeded all expectations.

"No one envisaged the kind of growth that the IPL has had. I still remember a conversation I had with Scott Styris when we were both at CSK. He told me that when he was playing for the Deccan Chargers in the initial seasons of IPL, he did not think the IPL would last for more than two-three years.

"Initially, there was a big influx of money," Ashwin said on the podcast hosted by former England captain Michael Vaughan and Australian great Adam Gilchrist.

Players bagging astronomical deals at the auction has also added significantly to the profile of the IPL. At the latest auction, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc fetched a record Rs 24.74 crore deal from Kolkata Knight Riders.

"Look, over the years you'd think that the IPL is one tournament that is largely won at the auctions. I believe the auctions are a very important facet of this league, but the beauty of the IPL is that franchises have evolved into getting their teams right.

"There's no one way to skin a cat. No one player is bigger than the team. No one slot is bigger than others. The teams invest wisely," said Ashwin who has also represented Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in the IPL.

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Suryakumar Yadav's "Little Correction Mate" Comment For An X User Is Viral

Mumbai Indians continue to miss their star batter Suryakumar Yadav, who is currently sidelined due to injury. Things have not gone well for MI in the absence of Suryakumar as they have lost their first two games in IPL 2024. Ahead of MI's second game, which was against Sunrisers Hyderabad at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Wednesday, a fan pointed out how getting to face the Hardik Pandya-led side early in the tournament was good for SRH. "Important match today especially for SunRisers Hyderabad at home. Might be the best time to play Mumbai Indians this early. Players like Kishan look currently under cooked  for game time form & no Suryakumar Yadav yet , still  has ankle problem," wrote the user on X.

"Little correction mate. Ankle plus I got operated for sports hernia," wrote Suryakumar. The comment has gone viral on social media.

Little correction mate. Ankle plus I got operated for sports hernia

— Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) March 27, 2024

Suryakumar is yet to get fitness clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA). The world number 1 T20I batter Suryakumar has been stationed at the NCA in Bengaluru for his recovery and rehabilitation following a surgery for sports hernia. He has been out of action since December last year.

He had undergone a groin surgery in February. This was the second surgery he had in recent months after the one for an ankle injury.

"I want to thank everyone for their concerns and well wishes for my health, and I am happy to tell you all that I will be back very soon," he had said in a post on X after the surgery.

Suryakumar led the Indian T20I team for the three-match series in South Africa in Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya's absence. He scored 56 off 36 balls in the second T20I in Gqeberha and 100 off 56 balls in the third T20I in Johannesburg.

He was not part of India's ODI squad for the three-match series in South Africa. Yadav was also unavailable for selection for home series at home against Afghanistan due to injury.

(With agency inputs)

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"Bowlers Were Good": Hardik Pandya Says After MI Concede 277 vs SRH

"Insane" was the only word that Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper Pat Cummins could think of to sum up the six-hitting slugfest against Mumbai Indians in the IPL on Wednesday. It was a game of many firsts as SRH smashed 277 for three, the highest total in IPL history. Mumbai Indians kept themselves in the game before ending at 246 for five. For the first time, 500 runs were scored in a game, including a record 38 sixes.

"That was insane. The ball was really pinging around. Not until we bowled, it got a bit too close for comfort. They found a boundary whenever they needed it, but we finished it off well," said Cummins at the post-match presentation.

It was a batting beauty but Cummins did not envisage such a big total.

"You never play for 270, but we wanted to be positive and be aggressive, take the game on. It was a good wicket, so we have to suck it up knowing we would go for a few boundaries.

"What's important is to have clear plans with the ball. There was amazing atmosphere in the ground, enjoyed playing here, was incredibly loud," said the skipper after SRH's first win of the season.

Opposition skipper Hardik Pandya could only doff his hat to the opposition batters though his team also put up a spirited fight with the bat.

"Wicket was good, 277 no matter how bad or good you bowl, if the opposition has to score that much, they have batted well," said Pandya.

Barring Jasprit Bumrah, all Mumbai bowlers leaked more than 10 runs per over. 17-year-old debutant Kwena Maphaka conceded 66 runs in his four overs.

"The wicket was good but 277, no matter how good or bad you bowl, if the opposition get 277 that means they batted very well. [Bowlers] were good. It was tough out there," Hardik Pandya. 

"Close to 500 runs were scored so the wicket was helping the batters. We could have tried a few different things, but we have a young bowling attack and I liked what I saw today. If the ball goes this much in the crowd, it's definitely different to run around and complete the overs in time. Everyone batted really well, counting Tilak, Ro, Ishan. There are just few things we need to do right and we'll be alright."

He backed Maphaka to come good in the next game.

"He (Kwena Maphaka) was fantastic, coming into his first game and getting overwhelmed, he was alright and backed his skillset, just needs some game time," added the Mumbai Indians skipper.
 

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IPL 2024 Points Table: SRH Rise To Third Spot, MI Slip To...

Sunrisers Hyderabad posted 277-3 for the highest-ever Indian Premier League total and went on to beat Mumbai Indians by 31 runs in a six-hitting festival on Wednesday. Australia's Travis Head made a 24-ball 62 to lead the assault after Hyderabad batted first and went past the previous IPL best of 263-5 by Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2013. Mumbai replied strongly in the match which witnessed 38 sixes for another IPL record, bettering the 33 hits over the fence clubbed three times in earlier seasons.

Left-handed Tilak Varma stood out with his 64 in 34 balls for Mumbai but the effort was not enough on a batting-friendly pitch in veteran batsman Rohit Sharma's 200th IPL match.

Rohit smashed a 12-ball 26 and fellow opener Ishan Kishan made 34 to give Mumbai a flying start but the innings lost momentum after 10 overs due to the ever-increasing asking rate.

Tim David smashed an unbeaten 42 in a late charge but the chase was beyond reach as Mumbai ended on 246-5 -- the team's highest IPL total.

After the victory in the game, SRH rose to the third spot in the points table while MI slipped to the ninth spot in the standings.

Have a look at updated IPL 2024 points table here:

It was records galore as the match also featured the highest run aggregate of 523 runs in 17 years of the IPL.

Hyderabad skipper Pat Cummins was the best of the bowlers with 2-35 in his four overs of pace, leading his side to their first win of the season.

Earlier the left-handed Head, dropped on five by David off skipper Hardik Pandya, reached his fifty in 18 balls and after his departure Abhishek Sharma reached his half-century off just 16.

The team's 100 came up in only seven overs and Hyderabad posted the tournament's highest ever total in the first 10 overs of 148-2.

Abhishek fell for 63 off 23 balls but there was no respite for the bowlers who were at the receiving end of some punishing batting.

It was raining boundaries in Hyderabad's innings with 18 sixes and 19 fours as the South African pair of Heinrich Klaasen (80 not out in 34 balls) and Aiden Markram, who hit 42, posted an unbeaten stand of 116.

Mumbai's South African import Kwena Maphaka had a bruising introduction to IPL when the 17-year-old left-arm quick went for 66 runs in his four overs.

Five-time winners Mumbai, who had a change in captaincy after Pandya took over from the experienced Rohit, and Hyderabad started this edition with a loss each.

(With AFP Inputs)

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"Happiest Person" : Kavya Maran's Reaction Viral As SRH Thrash MI. Watch

For SunRisers Hyderabad, Wednesday will be remembered for a long time. They not just defeated Mumbai Indians by 31 runs, but did so after registering 277/3 in the first innings - the highest-ever IPL score. Three SRH batters smashed quickfire fifties as SRH made MI look an ordinary team. Travis Head, playing his first IPL game this season, blasted a 24-ball 62, while Abhishek Sharma slammed 63 off 23 to lay the foundation. Heinrich Klassen (80 not out) and Aiden Markram (42 not out) provided the late charge to take the hosts past the 250-mark. The previous highest total was 263 for five, achieved by Royal Challengers Bangalore back in 2013.

SRH owner Kavya Maran was ecstatic and could be seen fervently cheering her team from the stands. "Happiest person in the world" wrote a X User. 

Kavya Maran is the happiest lady in the world right now.#MIvSRH #IPL2024 #KavyaMaranhttps://t.co/4Yaxg1Xg04

— IPL FOLLOWER (@BiggBosstwts) March 27, 2024

SRH HAVE DEFEATED MUMBAI INDIANS IN HYDERABAD...!!!!

Happiest person right now Kavya Maran #SRHvMI pic.twitter.com/obf6DbV81f

— Bagad Billa (@maitweethoon) March 27, 2024

Kavya maran is the happiest person in the world right now#kavyamaran #srh #SunrisersHyderabad #Sunrisers #IPL #TATAIPL2024 #IPLUpdate #IPL2024 #ipltickets #IPLonJioCinema #IPLticket #srhvsmi #srhvmi #mivssrh #mivsrh #MumbaiIndians#IPL2024live #crickettwitter    #Hyderabad pic.twitter.com/6uxTVISkaG

— GOAT 31 (@daveyyyy31) March 27, 2024

Earlier, Fifties from Heinrich Klassen, Abhishek Sharma, and Travis Head tore the Mumbai Indians (MI) bowling attack apart, as SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) registered the highest score in the history of IPL which is 277/3 in their 20 overs on Wednesday.

MI skipper Hardik Pandya won the toss and asked the hosts, SRH, to bat first at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

Openers Mayank Aggarwal and Travis Head came out to bat. Both the batters played attacking shots from the start of the innings. They built a partnership of 45 runs in just 4 overs before Mayank was dismissed on the first ball of the innings by Hardik. He was able to score 11 runs.

SRH completed their fifty in the 4.4 overs Head slammed a boundary on the bowling of Pandya.

After Mayank's dismissal, Abhishek Sharma came out to bat. He along with Head built a partnership of 68 runs from just 23 balls. Head was sent back to the pavilion after playing an outstanding knock of 62 runs in 24 balls which was laced with nine fours and three sixes in the innings.

The hosts touched the 100-run nark on the last ball of the seventh over as Abhishek smashed a six to leg-spinner Piyush Chawla.

After Head's wicket, former SRH skipper Aiden Markram came to support Abhishek. Both the batters played brilliantly and put on a partnership of 48 runs in just 19 balls before Abhishek was dismissed after playing a marvellous innings of 63 runs in just 23 balls with the help of seven maximums and three boundaries.

The Hyderabad franchise completed the 150-run mark on the second ball of the 11th over as the left-hand batter took a single on the bowling of Chawla.

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"A Dwarf Is A Dwarf": Sidhu's Epic Take On Hardik-Rohit MI Captaincy Row

Former Indian cricket team batter Navjot Singh Sidhu had his say about Rohit Sharma playing under the captaincy of Hardik Pandya in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 after the much-talked-about change in captaincy. Hardik, who completed a sensational trade move from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians, replaced Rohit as the skipper ahead of IPL 2024 and the move has led to massive conversations among fans and experts. In a recent interaction, Sidhu said that Dhoni and Rohit are great players in their own right, and playing in a franchise team under another captain does not diminish their position.

"I have played in an Indian team where five captains used to pay together. Kapil Dev, Dilip Vengsarkar, Sunil Gavaskar, Krishnamachari Srikkanth and Ravi Shastri. Pick up a brick and you will find a captain both above and below it. There were no issues because they were playing for their nation. The motivation was to play for your country. So, playing under Hardik does not make Rohit smaller." 

Dhoni has passed the baton already and that could have happened in Mumbai Indians as well. But this is a franchise and they look at the performances. They gave it three years and when it did not work, they got a new person for the job. You need to accept it. But Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni are great players. A dwarf is a dwarf even if he is standing at the top of a mountain and a God is a God even if they are standing at the bottom of a well," Sidhu said during the analysis on Star Sports.

Navjot Singh Sidhu on Rohit Sharma. pic.twitter.com/OtQNhwitBh

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 24, 2024

Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians' batting coach Kieron Pollard backed Hardik Pandya's move to open the bowling instead of Jasprit Bumrah and also said the skipper batting at number seven in their IPL opener against Gujarat Titans was a "collective decision".

An inexplicable batting strategy saw MI lose their opener by six runs here on Sunday after they looked on course for victory.

Mumbai Indians won the toss and opted to bowl first and surprisingly, Hardik opened the bowling against his former side.

"You have to plan and decide what you want to do as a team. Hardik (Pandya) has also bowled with the new ball for Gujarat over the last couple of years. He swung the new ball and bowled it well, which was nothing new to us.

"We tried to use the advantage of the new ball swinging along. When I look at the decision made, there is nothing wrong with it, and we move on," Pollard said at the post-match press conference.

(With PTI inputs)

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IPL 2024: CSK Stamp Authority, Defeat Gujarat Titans By 63 Runs

Chennai Super Kings batters dazzled before the bowlers ran riot to choke Gujarat Titans in a comprehensive 63-run victory in their second IPL match on Tuesday. Ruturaj Gaikwad's team has covered all its bases and it was evident as Rachin Ravindra prepared a platform with 20-ball-46 allowing Shivam Dube to unlock his beast mode with a 23-ball-51. In between, Gaikwad himself maintained the balance with 36-ball-46 as Chennai's 206 for 6 was a Herculean total in every sense. Titans in reply could manage only 143/8 as Chahar (2/28 in 4 overs), Mustafizur Rahman (2/30 in 4 overs), Tushar Deshpande (2/21) and Matheesha Pathirana (1/29 in 4 overs) one by one tightened the noose on Titans batting unit.

If Gujarat needed to make a match of it, Shubman Gill needed to fire but his poor shot selection of a Deepak Chahar delivery, which wasn't as short as expected for a pull-shot, brought about his downfall.

Once Shubman was gone, Gujarat didn't even have a chance in hell with players like Wriddhiman Saha (21 off 17 balls) and B Sai Sudharsan (37, 31 balls), players, who on most days are pillion riders, playing second fiddle to perfection.

As it was the case, finishers like David Miller (21) and Rahul Tewatia (1) didn't have enough on the board to go for the improbable chase and the inevitable happened. Put into bat, Rachin's slam-bang approach and Dube's final flourish got CSK past 200-run mark.

Rachin made full use of Powerplay, racing to 46 off 20 balls while Dube, a nightmare for spinners then used his long levers to whack 51 in only 23 deliveries to increase the challenge of GT batters by manifold. Dube's innings had as many as five sixes.In between, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad's chiselled 46 off 36 balls also was a significant contribution in another impactful batting performance on a hard bouncy track that was on offer. Not to forget CSK's Rs 7.60 crore recruit Sameer Rizvi (14 off 6 balls), who pummeled Rashid Khan (2/49 in 4 overs) for two sixes to mark a memorable IPL debut.

It was Rachin, who has already become a darling of the CSK fans, enthralled all and sundry with his audacious stroke-play. While he missed out again on a half-century but team's 'spiritual skipper' Mahendra Singh Dhoni would be all smiles knowing that his choice was perfect to the T. The three sixes -- a flick behind the square and one over long-on off the normally profligate Umesh Yadav and one off Azmatullah Omarzai were hit with so much disdain that it did put Gujarat Titans in a spot. There were some crunchy cover drives as Ravindra let his skipper Gaikwad breathe a little easy at the other end.

Finally, it was GT's 'Go-To' bowler Rashid, who drew the first blood but more because of smart work from Wriddhiman Saha, who removed the bails in a flash after the Black Caps opener lost his balance moved out of his crease trying to whip the delivery.

Saha's next stumping was way easier as Sai Kishore shortened the length and drew him out of his crease for an indiscreet loft. The ball deviated enough and the keeper completed mere formality.

Gaikwad wasn't as fluent as Ravindra to begin with but in his five boundaries and a six, he oozed class before becoming Saha's third victim with the gloves trying to pull Spencer Johnson, only to end up edging one behind the stumps.

After that it was Dube, who just plonked his front-foot and bludgeoned Sai Kishore for two monstrous sixes and also sent Johnson's delivery soaring for a maximum. Dube had the composed Daryl Mitchell for company, who also chipped in with an unbeaten 20-ball-24 in a stand of 57 runs for the fourth wicket in 5.5 overs. 

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Big Blow For SRH: Star Spinner Likely to Miss Another Week Of IPL 2024

Sri Lanka's star spinner, Wanindu Hasaranga, is likely to be unavailable for another week for Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad as he looks to consult doctors overseas about chronic pain in his left heel, according to ESPNcricinfo. Hasaranga recently featured in Sri Lanka's white-ball series against Bangladesh but according to ESPNcricinfo, he did it while going through a substantial amount of pain. During the six matches that he played in the limited-overs format, Hasaranga claimed eight wickets, with six coming in the ODI series and two in the T20I. ESPNcricinfo revealed that Hasaranga was assessed by Sri Lanka Cricket's medical staff and they suspect that the pain is down to the musculo-skeletal apparatus in his left heel having become worn.

ESPNcricinfo further reported that the SLC's doctors have advised Hasaranga to get a medical opinion to understand the nature of the injury and how to manage it.

Hasaranga is yet to join SRH camp and there is no set date on his arrival. His recent setback could hinder his chances of featuring in the upcoming T20 World Cup, which will be played in June.

The 26-year-old was the star performer for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru last season, as he ended the campaign with 26 wickets at an economy rate of 7.54.

Recently, he was suspended for two Bangladesh Tests after being sanctioned three demerit points for showing dissent at the umpire's decision during the third ODI against Bangladesh.

The incident occurred in the 37th over of the game, when Hasaranga grabbed his cap from one of the umpires and ridiculed the umpiring in the play. Bangladesh won the series 2-1 with four-wicket.

He received a 50 per cent fine and three penalty points for his offence. This increased his total demerit points to eight in a 24-month span.

The all-rounder was already on five demerit points after receiving three during the third T20I against Afghanistan in Dambulla last month. Following this, he was suspended for two Twenty20 Internationals against Bangladesh. With the addition of the most recent demerit points, he has now exceeded the eight-point barrier, which has been translated into four suspension points under article 7.6 of the Code.

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RCB's Response To Murali Kartik's "Someone's Trash" Remark At Yash Dayal

Former Indian cricket team spinner Murali Kartik faced a lot of criticism on social media for his on-air comments on Royal Challengers Bengaluru pacer Yash Dayal during the IPL 2024 match against Punjab Kings on Monday. Dayal ended up conceding five sixes in five balls against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL - an unwanted feat that had an immense impact on the young cricketer. However, he was picked by RCB for Rs 5 crore at the IPL 2024 season and while speaking about the move, Kartik said - "Someone's trash is someone's treasure". The comment wasn't taken positively by many social media users.

“How do you say someone's trash is someone's treasure? You just called Yash Dayal Trash on air! Like what even?,” comedian and television host Danish Sait posted on X (formerly Twitter).

How do you say someone's trash is someone's treasure? You just called Yash Dayal Trash on air! Like what even?

— Danish Sait (@DanishSait) March 25, 2024

The Royal Challengers Bangalore took to social media to give a befitting response to Kartik over his on-air comment.

He's treasure. Period. pic.twitter.com/PaLI8Bw88g

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) March 25, 2024

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli has surpassed Suresh Raina to become the Indian player with the most catches in the men's T20 format.

Kohli made the record during clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS).

The 35-year-old took PBKS batters Jonny Bairstow and Shikhar Dhawan's catches to complete his 174th in the T20 format.

He went past former India cricketer Suresh Raina who has 172 catches to his name. India skipper Rohit Sharma is in the third spot with 167 catches in his kitty. India batters Manish Pandey and Suryakumar Yadav are in the fourth and fifth spots with 146 and 136 catches respectively.

Overall in international T20 cricket, former West Indies cricketer Kieron Pollard is at the summit with 362 catches to his name.

South African batter David Miller is in the second spot with 290 catches to his name. Former West Indies batter Dwayne Bravo is in the third spot with 271 catches in the T20 format.

(With ANI inputs)

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"Still Got It": Kohli's Massive Declaration Amid Chatter Over T20 WC Spot

After a minor hiccup in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's first game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 204, Virat Kohli is back where he belongs. The same craftiness and class that Kohli has been known to exude was visible once again as he registered his 100th T20 fifty-plus score, becoming the first Indian and overall only third player to do so, in a match against Punjab Kings on Monday. He scored 77 runs in 49 balls, with 11 fours and two sixes. He scored his runs at a strike rate of over 157. RCB beat PBKS by four wickets, and Kohli played a major role.

Kohli, who took a two-month paternity break, didn't forget to mention that whether it is cricket in the Olympic program or T20 World Cup in the USA, he is 'The Face'.

In 378 appearances in T20s, Virat has scored 12,092 runs at an average of 41.26, with eight centuries and 92 fifties. His best score is 122*. Virat is India's leading T20 run-getter and overall sixth. Kohli's scintillating 77 came in the backdrop of chatter that the former Indian cricket team captain may not be picked for the T20 World Cup. 

After getting the Orange Cap, Kohli opened up on his form. "[To the crowd] Don't get overexcited, it's just two games. I know what this (orange cap) means. [Love story with the crowd] It's been going on for years. People talk a lot about playing the sport. At the end of the day, you don't talk about the achievements, stats or numbers but the memories. It's what Rahul Dravid says. The friendship, love, appreciation, and backing has been amazing and is what you'll miss and never forget," he said.

He then went on to say that he still has it in him to perform in the shortest format.

"In T20, I'm opening, I try to give the team a blazing start. But when wickets start falling, you have to understand the conditions as well. The wicket wasn't as placid as normal here. It was a bit two-paced. Had to play correct cricketing shots, couldn't hit balls across the line. Tried a few, felt like I needed big hits at the other end, which didn't happen as Maxi and Anuj got out quickly. Disappointed not having finished it off. It was a slot ball that I sliced straight to deep point. Not a bad bad though playing after two months and getting into the tournament," he said.  

"I had to, bowlers know I play the cover drive pretty well. So they won't allow me to hit gaps. Guys like KG and Arshdeep, if they are hitting length, you have to create momentum, once you're closer to the ball you negate the bounce. You have to come up with a game plan and try to keep improving. I know my name is often used to just promote the T20 game across the world when it comes to T20 cricket these days but still got it I guess." 

Though players' places in the T20 squad will be defined on the basis of the IPL 2024 campaign, a report has claimed that chief selector Ajit Agarkar has been asked to 'convince' Virat to make way for youngsters in the team.

As per a report in The Telegraph, Virat was informed by Agarkar about the need for a change in his approach. The conversation prompted Kohli to bat more aggressively in T20Is against Afghanistan but could only register the highest score of 29 in a match.

The report further claims that the selectors are of the opinion that the slow wickets in the West Indies wouldn't suit Kohli's natural game as a batter. Hence, the selection committee has been assessing its options for the showpiece event.

With PTI and ANI inputs

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IPL 2024 Points Table: RCB Register First Victory. The Leaders Are...

Royal Challengers Bengaluru registered their first victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 and moved up to the sixth position in the points table. Virat Kohli was the top performer for RCB with a brilliant 77 while Dinesh Karthik finished it in style as the team bounced back from their loss against Chennai Super Kings in the opener. Rajasthan Royals are currently top of the table thanks to the best Net Run Rate (NRR) followed by CSK, Gujarat Titans, Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings.

Virat Kohli produced a quality half-century on a slightly gummy pitch that took the Holi-day crowd on a joyride and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a four-wicket victory over Punjab Kings.

The 177-run target wasn't a massively tough one, but needed a meticulous scaling down because of the deck's nature.

Kohli (77, 49b, 11x4, 2x6) conducted it to near-perfection as RCB made 178 for six with four balls to spare to register their first win of this IPL.

The Royal Challengers needed 47 from 24 balls from that point Dinesh Karthik (28 not out off 10 balls) and 'Impact Player' Mahipal Lomror (17 not out, 8 balls)carried them past the rope with some sensible cricket. Karthik team's designated finisher showed that he can seamlessly switch from microphone to willow as he walloped Harshal Patel and Arshdeep Singh with minimum fuss to finish it in style.

Kohli's innings was not a blemish free effort as he received reprieves on the very first ball on zero and then when he was on 33, and on both the times pacer Sam Curran was the aggrieved party.

But when Kohli bats at such a lofty zone those are momentary distractions – for him and for the fans.

He showed that in no little measure, clanking Curran for three more fours after that first drop as 16 runs cascaded in the opening over of the chase.

There were his money shots too – cover drives, swat-flicks, lofts over extra cover as Kohli dismantled the Kings attack all alone.

But a shot stood out from the rest for its sheer timing and execution. Rabada, who was otherwise superb for a 2/23 figure, pitched one slightly short, and Kohli danced down to magnificently flay the offering over the covers for a four.

The inside out maximum over covers off leg-spinner Rahul Chahar too has the touch of Kohli's genius.

Those shorts also bore testimony of Kohli's class on a tacky deck where other RCB batters such as Cameron Green and Glenn Maxwell struggled to get a move-on against Rabada and highly-impressive spinner Harpreet Brar (2/13).

It reflected in the fact that the highest partnership in RCB innings was a 43-run association between Kohli and Rajat Patidar (18, 18b) for the third wicket.

But the lone Odyssey of Kohli ended when his slash off Harshal Patel's slower ball on off-stump failed to generate enough power and distance to clear Brar at deep third man.

(With PTI inputs)

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"Where Is Bumrah?": Pietersen, Gavaskar Blast Hardik For Tactical Decision

Former England cricket team batter Kevin Pietersen and legendary India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar were extremely critical of Hardik Pandya's decision to bowl the first over during the match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024 on Sunday. The MI skipper decided to start proceedings with the new ball instead of choosing star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah - a choice that led to a lot of discussion in the commentary box. Things got worse as Hardik was taken to be the cleaners by GT openers Shubman Gill and Wriddhiman Saha with the all-rounder conceding 20 runs in his first six deliveries.

"Why Jasprit Bumrah is not opening the bowling? I don't understand this," Pietersen remarked.

"Very good question. Very, very good question," Gavaskar replied on commentary.

Even Irfan Pathan took to social media to have his say on the matter.

“Where is Bumrah?” he posted on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Where is Bumrah?

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) March 24, 2024

Gujarat went on to score 169 runs with the bat, a decent total on the wicket. Mumbai Indians were off to a bad start as Ishan Kishan feathered an edge to wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha, dismissed for a four-ball duck by Azmatullah Omarzai. MI was 0/1 in 0.4 overs.

Rohit Sharma later on developed a brief partnership with young batter Naman Dhir, a 24-year-old with an experience of four T20 innings. Rohit smacked Umesh Yadav for two cracking fours while Naman smashed Omarzai for three fours and a six.

However, Omarzai had the last laugh, trapping Naman leg-before-wicket for 20 in 10 balls, with three fours and a six. MI was 30/2 in three overs. Rohit, however, was unfazed as he continued punishing Umesh with a four and a six.

Dewald Brevis was next up on the crease. With a delightful boundary on Rashid Khan's delivery, Rohit helped MI reach the 50-run mark in 5.4 overs.

Australia pacer Spencer Johnson delivered an expensive over to conclude the first half of the innings, being hit for two fours by Rohit and a six by Brevis. At the end of 10 overs, MI was 88/2 with Rohit (40*) and Brevis (26*) unbeaten.

Brevis hit Mohit Sharma for a four to help MI reach the 100-run mark in 11.1 overs.

The 77-run partnership for the third wicket was ended by Sai Kishore, who trapped Rohit leg-before-wicket for 43 in 29 balls, with seven fours and a six. MI was 107/3 in 12.1 overs.

At the end of 15 overs, MI was 126/3, with Brevis (46*) and Tilak Varma (15*) unbeaten.

Mohit turned things around for GT, dismissing Tim David for 11 in 10 balls after he was caught by David Miller. MI was 142/5 in 18 overs, needing 27 runs in the final 12 balls.

In the next over, Spencer started off by conceding a six, but got Tilak on the next ball, caught by Abhinav Manohar for 25 in 19 balls. MI was 148/6, needing 21 in 10 balls.

Hardik Pandya and Gerald Coetzee were the fresh pair and they took the team to the last over with 19 runs to get in the final over as Gerald was dismissed on the final ball of the over by Spencer for one run. MI was 150/7 in 19 overs.

Shams Mulani was next up on the crease. Hardik started the next over with a six and four. However, he was dismissed for 11 in four balls by Umesh, caught by Tewatia. MI was 160/8, needing nine runs in three balls. Umesh was on a hat-trick, getting Piyush Chawla on next ball for a duck. MI was 160/9, needing nine in two balls.

MI finished their innings at 162/9 in 20 overs, losing by six runs.

With ANI inputs

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IPL 2024 Points Table After Gujarat Titans' Narrow Win Over Mumbai Indians

An inexplicable batting strategy by Mumbai Indians at the death saw Shubman Gill make an auspicious debut as Gujarat Titans captain with a thrilling six-run victory in their opening IPL game in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Jasprit Bumrah (3/14) was at his absolute best in his first IPL game in two years, firing in his express yorkers at will to help Mumbai Indians restrict Gujarat Titans to 168/6. But Bumrah's effort was not enough as batters like Tilak Varma and skipper Hardik Pandya failed to complement his brilliance. MI ended at 162/9 as things went downhill when all they needed was 43 runs off last five overs with seven wickets in hand.

MI thus failed to break their opening game jinx. The last time they won their IPL opener was against Chennai Super Kings way back in 2012.

After the game GT held the fourth spot in the IPL 2024 table with two points and an NRR of +0.300 while MI were at the 7th spot.

Rajasthan Royals, who won their campaign opener against Lucknow Super Giants in the day game on Sunday, held the top spot with two points and an NRR of +1.000. Chennai Super Kings and Punjab Kings held the second and third positions, respectively.

See the updated IPL 2024 points table here -

While spinners Rashid Khan (0/23 in 4 overs) and R Sai Kishore (1/24) gave very little with the ball despite the dew setting in, veteran Mohit Sharma (2/32) used his variations with different types of slower deliveries to turn the course of the match.

Spencer Joshnson (2/25) and Umesh Yadav (2/32) were brilliant bowling the 19th and 20th over as Hardik Pandya relegating himself to No. 7 in batting order is something that would need explanation. He did hit a six and four in the last over but Umesh had the last laugh.

Even Tilak Varma refusing a single to Tim David also beggars belief.

MI lost their first wicket without a run on the board after Ishan Kishan failed to open his account, nicking an Azmatullah Omarzai (2/27) delivery to Wriddhiman Saha as the pacer set him up with some excellent swing bowling. After testing Kishan with inswingers, Omarzai got one to move away and the batter could only edge it to the keeper.

New face Naman Dhir began with a flurry of boundaries, leaving the likes of Ravi Shastri excited in the commentary box as the experts discussed the best possible combination for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Having being hit for three fours and a six by Dhir, Omarzai had the last laugh as the batter was adjudged lbw after the Afghan had opted for a review after the on-field umpire thought otherwise.

Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma (43 off 29 balls) found one on the slot and flicked Umesh Yadav over mid-wicket for a maximum as MI reached 52/2 at the end of powerplay.

Dewald Brevis (46 off 38 balls) also was in fettle as the South African struck sixes off Rashid Khan, Spencer Johnson and Sai Kishore as MI inched closer to the target of 169.

However, Sai Kishore trapped Rohit and Impact Sub Mohit had Brevis caught and bowled to bring GT back into the contest.

Tilak Varma (25 off 19) perished while truing to force the pace, and MI skipper Hardik Pandya too failed to complete the chase after coming close.

Earlier, young left-hander B Sai Sudharsan top-scored with a 45 off 39 balls for GT, while Rahul Tewatia made 22 off 15 balls down the order.

But the evening, without an iota of doubt, belonged to Bumrah, who missed the whole of last edition due to a lower back stress fracture.

He dismissed David Miller and Sudharsan in the 17th over in a space of three deliveries but it didn't help in final outcome.

Assuming that there could be dew later in the evening, MI's new skipper Hardik Pandya invited GT to bat first, and Shubman Gill in his first game as captain was up to the task.

Looking to make an impact against his former team, Pandya opened the bowling and Wriddhiman Saha (19) slapped a wide ball through the off-side to begin GT's campaign with a boundary.

Up against Gill, Pandya erred in line and the stylish batter used his wrists to whip him off his pads for a four, as the MI captain conceded 11 runs after his surprise move to start the proceedings at the expense of one of the world's best bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah.

As Saha got a few useful boundaries, Gill found the fence with consummate ease as GT were off to a flyer.

However, Bumrah's introduction in the fourth over brought MI instant success as the lead pacer sent back Saha with an express yorker, hitting the base of the middle stump. The former India stumper couldn't bring his bat down in quick time.

Spin was brought on in Shams Mulani and Gill rocked back to cut the left-arm spinner through covers for a four. The GT captain then got down on one leg to slog-sweep Mulani for a huge six over deep square-leg.

Piyush Chawla bowled an economical first over, even as GT managed 47 runs for the loss of one wicket in the powerplay.

Chawla continued and Gill tried to disturb his rhythm, but failed. He danced down the ground to hoick him but did not get the necessary elevation, as Rohit Sharma, who is normally not seen fielding in such positions, judged it well to complete a neat catch in the deep.

The experienced Chawla snared the big fish with a googly as Gill (31 off 22 balls) walked back after getting his eye in, much to the relief of the hordes of Mumbai supporters at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

However, with Sai Sudharsan determined to start from where he left in the title clash against CSK last season with a magnificent 96, MI knew they had their task cut out.

(With PTI Inputs)

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Shreyanka Patil Has A Special Message For RCB Men's Team In IPL 2024

The Indian women's cricket team received the 'Sports Performance Of The Year' award at the NDTV Indian Of The Year 2024 award ceremony held in New Delhi on Saturday. The team was represented by Shreyanka Patil, Shafali Verma, Sneh Rana and Radha Yadav. They were presented the award by tennis icon Sania Mirza. Shreyanka spoke about the change that women's cricket has seen in India over the past few years and thanked the BCCI for their support when it comes to opportunities and finances. 

"Firstly thank you NDTV for having us here and presenting this wonderful award. Means a lot. To answer this question, I think it's changed thoroughly over the past few years. Women's cricketers are also given preference for being financially and it is also opportunity for us. It's been amazing and thank you BCCI for giving us an opportunity and also giving us financial support," Shreyanka said.

Shreyanka was part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) side that won the recently concluded Women's Premier League (WPL) title after defeating Delhi Capitals in the final. This was the first time that a RCB side (men's or women's) won a title and Shreyanka had a special message for Virat Kohli and Co for their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 campaign.

"I mean we were all waiting for this cup for past 16 years and we finally did it but I think the men's team are doing really great. They're working really hard for that trophy and we can all see that that they're really working hard and really wanting to do well and get the trophy home. I think they'll really do it very soon and good luck for them and thank you so much," the youngster said.

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"If I Even Do It Wrong...": Iyer Breaks Silence On Negative Publicity

He has had a rough one month leading up to the IPL but KKR captain Shreyas Iyer wants to put all those negative thoughts in the back-burner as he focuses on what's there in store for him. Iyer, who recently was axed from BCCI central contracts list for his apparent reluctance to play Ranji Trophy, did score 95 in the final for Mumbai with a recurring back injury. But the NCA has given him clearance to play IPL with a rider -- that he should be careful while lunging forward. The KKR skipper however feels that he is in best possible shape.

"I don't want to think about what the doctor has said, what the injury was because, as I mentioned previously, when you over-think, put your focus on the injury, and in that moment, forget about what you're doing the best," Iyer told mediapersons ahead of team's opening game against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

"So, I want to put all these things aside and focus on what's there for me on the plate," the skipper made his priority clear.

Personally, he feels that he is in good mind space getting into the tournament.

"I have ticked the boxes in every way possible so I am in high spirits," Iyer added.

"Right now, if I look at myself, I feel that I'm in the best shape possible. I played so many years in the IPL so it's not that I am completely distant from it. Personally, my preparation has been top-notch." He has done the hard yards and is ready for the big challenge.

"I've been doing my training regularly, I've been hitting the balls, and I've been batting for longer periods of time. So, that is something I'm thriving on."

There has been a lot of talk centering around Iyer and his back injury following his pullout from the Test series versus England as the India batter has found himself out of a central contract ahead of the T20I World Cup in June.

"I'm looking forward to winning the IPL. If you would ask any captain, they would have the same mentality. And that's why you have to be in the present as much as possible."

Obviously, he has attracted a lot of negative publicity of late but he doesn't want to dwell on those aspects.

"If you dwell too much either on past or future, I personally feel that you make a lot of mistakes. So, that's what I've learned over a period of time, that whatever is in your hand, you have to make the best use of it. The decision-making outside of it is not in your hand, and the more you dwell on that, the more mistakes you would be indulging in.

"So I just want to keep doing my work and see to it that I do it right. And if I even do it wrong, I want to learn from it and see to it that I don't repeat it again."

The season will also mark a second innings from their two-time IPL winning captain Gautam Gambhir who has returned as a mentor for the upcoming IPL.

KKR have been without a title since 2014 and have finished seventh in last two editions.

"He brings a lot of inputs. Strategically strong, having won two IPLs. Knows a lot about the venue and the opposition teams. Chandu sir (head coach Chandrakant Pandit) and Gautam sir give a lot of inputs. When I talk to them in practice, I get a lot of inputs.

"I have worked with him previously in a different franchise (Delhi) and I know what his mindset is. He is a fearless guy and he gives you a lot of freedom as a captain and also as a player.

"So, I am basically honoured to be playing under him and it gives a lot of pleasure for other players as well in the team to go and express themselves with freedom.

"Boys are in high spirits, to be honest. For me, particularly coming after a year, it gives me great pleasure to be back with the team. Looking at the spirits, I am also motivated internally." KKR also have revamped their pace bowling lineup by signing Mitchell Starc as the costliest ever buy of the IPL.

"Motivation is always good from the start. When Starc is in, it brings a lot of advantage. He can bowl anywhere, be it in powerplay, middle overs, or death. He carries a lot of experience. It's good for our youngsters as well." 

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Mustafizur Rahman Stars In CSK's Easy Win Over RCB In IPL 2024 Opener

Mustafizur Rahman set it up with his bagful of cerebral variations before Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube got the job done with their superlative finishing skills to script a comfortable six-wicket win for Chennai Super Kings over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL opener on Friday. CSK, who have not lost to RCB at home since 2008, thus kept their enviable record intact. Mustafizur, with his best ever IPL figures of 4/29 in four overs, was largely responsible for restricting RCB to 173 for six on a good batting track, where a 95-run sixth wicket stand off 50 balls between Anuj Rawat (48 off 25 balls) and Dinesh Karthik (38 not out off 26 balls) was the visitors' only saving grace.

Jadeja (25 not out off 17 balls) brought his oodles of experience just when things could have got tricky in the run chase, hurrying a rusty Dube (34 off 28 balls) into completing some quick doubles to complete the chase in 18.4 overs. Dube also grew in confidence in Jadeja's company towards the end as he finished the chase in a jiffy.

Credit should also be given to Rachin Ravindra (37 off 15 balls), who teed off in brilliant fashion with three sixes and as many boundaries to set the tone.

Ajinkya Rahane (27 off 19 balls), who had a forgettable Ranji season with the bat, also hit a couple of sixes before a great piece of outfielding by Glenn Maxwell saw his back.

Dube and Daryl Mitchell (22 off 18 balls) were peppered with short balls from Alzarri Joseph and Cameron Green with the latter falling prey to one such delivery.

When RCB batted, Mustafizur brought back memories of his rookie days but an impressive rear-guard action from Rawat took RCB to a fighting total.

Rawat, who initially was cautious, launched into Tushar Deshpande, whose natural length is on the shorter side. Three sixes and a four in the 18th over turned the course as RCB knocked 83 runs in their last six overs. Rawat hit four fours and three sixes in his innings.

This was after Mustafizur took four wickets in his first two overs to reduce RCB to 78 for five.

'Fizz' as he is known in the cricketing fraternity wouldn't have got a first eleven nod had Matheesha Pathirana been fit to represent the 'Yellow Brigade'.

Brought in the Powerplay to stop a rampaging Faf du Plessis (35 off 23), Mustafizur, gauging the pace of the track, didn't keep it too full and bowled between the 7-8 metre length to extract enough bounce to get a couple of dismissals.

Kohli made a painstaking 21 off 20 balls in his first competitive game in more than two months.

Having got to face only six deliveries in the Powerplay, Kohli's first attacking stroke was a pull six off Maheesh Theekshana (0/36 in 4 overs) but he never looked in rhythm after a two-month paternity break as a mistimed pull led to his dismissal. Rahane had caught it at deep mid-wicket but as he was about slide out, he flicked it inside for Rachin to complete the relay catch.

Mustafizur's best delivery however was one that cleaned up Green when he rolled his wrists to bowl a cutter with a wobbly seam.

At the onset, Deepak Chahar (1/37 in 4 overs) did look woefully short of match practice, as his loopy outswingers got harsh treatment first up from skipper Du Plessis.

But RCB's joy was short-lived as the skipper was caught in the deep after a brisk knock.

Rajat Patidar's (0) wretched run since England Tests continued as he nicked one to Mahendra Singh Dhoni behind the stumps.

The break in momentum for RCB worked in Chahar's favour as a change of ends saw him bowl one that pitched on back of length and moved a shade to have Glenn Maxwell caught behind.

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