R Ashwin was on fire in Rajasthan Royals' (RR) face-off versus Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 39 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Tuesday evening (April 26) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. While the wily spin-bowling all-rounder was promoted at No. 3 in RR's innings, where he scored a 9-ball 17, his real contribution via his primary job, i.e.&nbsp;with the ball in hand.

Ashwin returned with a match-winning spell, 4-0-17-3, as the Sanju Samson-led RR franchise defended their modest total, 144 for 8, by 29 runs after being asked to bat first. Courtesy of his spell, the 35-year-old off-spinner became the eighth bowler overall to enter the 150-wicket club in IPL. In addition, he joined Harbhajan Singh to become only the second off-spinner to take 150 scalps in the premier tournament.&nbsp;

Dwayne Bravo&nbsp;leads the list of most wickets in IPL (181). Lasith Malinga occupies the second slot (170) with Amit Mishra (166), Yuzvendra Chahal (157), Piyush Chawla (157), Ashwin (152), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (151) and Harbhajan Singh (150) following suit. Sunil Narine (149) and Jasprit Bumrah (135) complete the top ten.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pull-out-of-ipl-2022-ravi-shastris-bold-suggestion-for-virat-kohli-amid-rcb-stars-batting-concerns-474207">'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns</a>

Thus, Ashwin is the fourth-highest wicket-taker in IPL among spinners and the off-spinner with most scalps to date. He surpassed Harbhajan's tally during&nbsp;RR's 29-run win over RCB.&nbsp;

Talking about the clash, RR rode on Riyan Parag's 56 and Samson's 27 to post 144/8. RCB bowlers Md Siraj, Josh Hazlewood and Wanindu Hasaranga returned with two scalps each. In reply, Faf du Plessis &amp; Co. were dismissed for 115 in 19.3 overs with Ashwin and Kuldeep Sen (4 for 20) shining for the Royals.

The one-time winners RR are now the table toppers with 12 points and a healthy NRR (+0.561).

R Ashwin was on fire in Rajasthan Royals' (RR) face-off versus Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 39 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Tuesday evening (April 26) at the MCA Stadium, Pune.

R Ashwin was on fire in Rajasthan Royals' (RR) face-off versus Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 39 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Tuesday evening (April 26) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. While the wily spin-bowling all-rounder was promoted at No. 3 in RR's innings, where he scored a 9-ball 17, his real contribution via his primary job, i.e. with the ball in hand. Ashwin returned with a match-winning spell, 4-0-17-3, as the Sanju Samson-led RR franchise defended their modest total, 144 for 8, by 29 runs after being asked to bat first. Courtesy of his spell, the 35-year-old off-spinner became the eighth bowler overall to enter the 150-wicket club in IPL. In addition, he joined Harbhajan Singh to become only the second off-spinner to take 150 scalps in the premier tournament. Dwayne Bravo leads the list of most wickets in IPL (181). Lasith Malinga occupies the second slot (170) with Amit Mishra (166), Yuzvendra Chahal (157), Piyush Chawla (157), Ashwin (152), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (151) and Harbhajan Singh (150) following suit. Sunil Narine (149) and Jasprit Bumrah (135) complete the top ten. ALSO READ | 'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns Thus, Ashwin is the fourth-highest wicket-taker in IPL among spinners and the off-spinner with most scalps to date. He surpassed Harbhajan's tally during RR's 29-run win over RCB. Talking about the clash, RR rode on Riyan Parag's 56 and Samson's 27 to post 144/8. RCB bowlers Md Siraj, Josh Hazlewood and Wanindu Hasaranga returned with two scalps each. In reply, Faf du Plessis & Co. were dismissed for 115 in 19.3 overs with Ashwin and Kuldeep Sen (4 for 20) shining for the Royals. The one-time winners RR are now the table toppers with 12 points and a healthy NRR (+0.561).

R Ashwin achieves elite feat in RR-RCB tie, becomes second off-spinner to attain 150 IPL scalps

Next year's ice hockey world championship will be moved away from St Petersburg in Russia, governing body IIHF said on Tuesday, due to concerns about the wellbeing of players and officials after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

The tournament was scheduled to take place in St Petersburg from May 5-21. The federation said it will name an alternate host for the 2022 world championship, which will take place in Finland. "The decision to relocate the event was taken primarily out of concern for the safety and well-being of all participating players, officials, media, and fans," the IIHF said in a statement.

"The council expressed significant concerns over the safe freedom of movement of players and officials too, from, and within Russia." Earlier this year, the IIHF suspended Russian and Belarusian teams from its competitions until further notice and revoked Russia`s hosting rights for the 2023 world junior championships. Moscow calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation". Belarus is a key staging area for the invasion.

St Petersburg and Moscow co-hosted the 2016 world championships, where Russia finished third. 
This year`s edition in Finland will be held from May 13-29 with Austria and France replacing Russia and Belarus.

Next year's ice hockey world championship will be moved away from St Petersburg in Russia, governing body IIHF said on Tuesday, due to concerns about the wellbeing of players and officials after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine.

Next year's ice hockey world championship will be moved away from St Petersburg in Russia, governing body IIHF said on Tuesday, due to concerns about the wellbeing of players and officials after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. The tournament was scheduled to take place in St Petersburg from May 5-21. The federation said it will name an alternate host for the 2022 world championship, which will take place in Finland. "The decision to relocate the event was taken primarily out of concern for the safety and well-being of all participating players, officials, media, and fans," the IIHF said in a statement. "The council expressed significant concerns over the safe freedom of movement of players and officials too, from, and within Russia." Earlier this year, the IIHF suspended Russian and Belarusian teams from its competitions until further notice and revoked Russia`s hosting rights for the 2023 world junior championships. Moscow calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation". Belarus is a key staging area for the invasion. St Petersburg and Moscow co-hosted the 2016 world championships, where Russia finished third. This year`s edition in Finland will be held from May 13-29 with Austria and France replacing Russia and Belarus.

Ice Hockey: Russia loses next year's World Championship

Umran Malik has been one of the rising stars in IPL 2022. So far, the young Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pacer has bowled the third-most dot balls (81), is second in the list of most dot balls in an innings (19), has the best bowling figures of 4 for 28 (in SRH's face-off versus Punjab Kings) and also churned out as many as 10 wickets in seven outings; 11th-most in the overall list.

Apart from this, Umran's raw pace has stunned many, with him bowling the fastest delivery of the match on several occasions in the ongoing season. Thus, he has been receiving rave reviews from former and active cricketers. Being one of SRH's main performers in IPL 15, Umran also had&nbsp;a word with MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

Recently, his father revealed what the two stalwarts of Indian cricket told Umran. In a chat with timesofindia.com, Umran's father Rashid revealed, "Umran discussed some of those things with me. MS Dhoni is a legend of the game. Virat Kohli is also a great cricketer. Umran met both of them. They have told Umran that he is the future of Indian cricket. When Umran called me to share this with me, he was extremely happy. He was elated after listening to those golden words from the two legends of the game."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rcbs-embarrassing-49-to-kkrs-shambolic-68-five-lowest-totals-in-ipl-473762">From RCB's embarrassing 49 to KKR's shambolic 68: Five lowest totals in IPL</a>

Umran's father Rashid is an elated parent after seeing the stupendous success of his ward. He himself admitted that he has become extremely popular, in his hometown, with people coming up to him to talk about Umran and praise him.&nbsp;

Rashid revealed that he was against Umran playing cricket. However, he now hopes that his son represents Team India.&nbsp;

"Everyone loves him (Umran) in the family. His sisters love him so much. When I was against him playing cricket, his sisters would support him," Rashid recalled.

"My only dream now is to see my son in an Indian team jersey. I want him to play in the World Cup some day. I am sure he will. He has reached this level and I am confident he will get there very soon. He will make the entire country proud," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-hails-srhs-umran-malik-for-speed-and-accuracy-says-hes-going-to-play-for-india-472416">Sunil Gavaskar hails SRH's Umran Malik for speed and accuracy, says 'he's going to play for India'</a>

Umran has played a key role in SRH's emphatic turnaround in IPL 2022. After losing their opening two games, Hyderabad have bounced back in style to win five matches on the trot and occupy the second spot&nbsp;in the points table.

Umran Malik has been one of the rising stars in IPL 2022. So far, the young Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pacer has bowled the third-most dot balls (81), is second in the list of most dot balls in an innings (19), has the best bowling figures of 4 for 28 (in SRH's face-off versus Punjab Kings) and also churned out as many as 10 wickets in seven outings; 11th-most in the overall list.

Umran Malik has been one of the rising stars in IPL 2022. So far, the young Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pacer has bowled the third-most dot balls (81), is second in the list of most dot balls in an innings (19), has the best bowling figures of 4 for 28 (in SRH's face-off versus Punjab Kings) and also churned out as many as 10 wickets in seven outings; 11th-most in the overall list. Apart from this, Umran's raw pace has stunned many, with him bowling the fastest delivery of the match on several occasions in the ongoing season. Thus, he has been receiving rave reviews from former and active cricketers. Being one of SRH's main performers in IPL 15, Umran also had a word with MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli. Recently, his father revealed what the two stalwarts of Indian cricket told Umran. In a chat with timesofindia.com, Umran's father Rashid revealed, "Umran discussed some of those things with me. MS Dhoni is a legend of the game. Virat Kohli is also a great cricketer. Umran met both of them. They have told Umran that he is the future of Indian cricket. When Umran called me to share this with me, he was extremely happy. He was elated after listening to those golden words from the two legends of the game." ALSO READ | From RCB's embarrassing 49 to KKR's shambolic 68: Five lowest totals in IPL Umran's father Rashid is an elated parent after seeing the stupendous success of his ward. He himself admitted that he has become extremely popular, in his hometown, with people coming up to him to talk about Umran and praise him. Rashid revealed that he was against Umran playing cricket. However, he now hopes that his son represents Team India. "Everyone loves him (Umran) in the family. His sisters love him so much. When I was against him playing cricket, his sisters would support him," Rashid recalled. "My only dream now is to see my son in an Indian team jersey. I want him to play in the World Cup some day. I am sure he will. He has reached this level and I am confident he will get there very soon. He will make the entire country proud," he added. ALSO READ | Sunil Gavaskar hails SRH's Umran Malik for speed and accuracy, says 'he's going to play for India' Umran has played a key role in SRH's emphatic turnaround in IPL 2022. After losing their opening two games, Hyderabad have bounced back in style to win five matches on the trot and occupy the second spot in the points table.

Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni told Umran Malik he is the future of Indian cricket, reveals SRH speedster's father

Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday. 
The 35-year-old, who last played in the final of Indian Wells against Taylor Fritz on March 20, suffered a stress fracture in his rib during the tournament, forcing him to miss claycourt events in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. "Despite arriving just before the tournament and preparation being difficult, I really want to play at home since the opportunities are few," Nadal wrote on Twitter. "So I`m going to try to do it in the best way I can. See you in Madrid."

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A pesar de llegar justo de preparación y ser difícil, tengo muchas ganas de jugar y jugar en casa ya que las oportunidades son pocas. 
A tratar de hacerlo de la mejor manera posible 💪🏻 
 
Nos vemos en Madrid 😉 <a href="https://t.co/tiD5m6lWle">pic.twitter.com/tiD5m6lWle</a>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1518955177939808256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-defends-ban-on-russian-players-confirms-covid-vaccination-not-mandatory-for-participation-474035">Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation</a>

The former world number`s one return to action comes little under a month before the French Open, where he will be bidding for a record-extending 14th title. The claycourt major gets underway on May 22.

Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday.

Australian Open champion Rafa Nadal will make his return from a month-long absence due to injury at this week`s ATP Masters 1000 Madrid Open that begins later this week, the Spaniard announced on Tuesday. The 35-year-old, who last played in the final of Indian Wells against Taylor Fritz on March 20, suffered a stress fracture in his rib during the tournament, forcing him to miss claycourt events in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. "Despite arriving just before the tournament and preparation being difficult, I really want to play at home since the opportunities are few," Nadal wrote on Twitter. "So I`m going to try to do it in the best way I can. See you in Madrid." A pesar de llegar justo de preparación y ser difícil, tengo muchas ganas de jugar y jugar en casa ya que las oportunidades son pocas. A tratar de hacerlo de la mejor manera posible 💪🏻 Nos vemos en Madrid 😉 pic.twitter.com/tiD5m6lWle — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) April 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation The former world number`s one return to action comes little under a month before the French Open, where he will be bidding for a record-extending 14th title. The claycourt major gets underway on May 22.

World No. 4 Rafael Nadal to make injury return at Madrid Open

Ravi Shastri has donned several roles in Indian cricket. The former all-rounder turned into a successful commentator before serving as Team India's head coach from 2017 to 2021. However, he also fulfilled the role of the&nbsp;team director for the national side twice, in 2007 (during the Bangladesh tour) and from 2014 to 2016.

Before his appointment as India's team director in 2014, during MS Dhoni &amp; Co.'s England tour, Shastri had no time to react as the BCCI asked him to come onboard as soon as possible. Back then, he was part of the commentary panel for India-England Tests, where the Dhoni-led visitors were being hammered left, right and center (eventually losing 3-1).

Recalling his appointment, Shastri told The Guardian, “I had no warning. I was commentating at the Oval during India’s [2014] tour of England and came off air to find six or seven missed calls. ‘Seven bloody calls? What’s happened here?’. [The BCCI] just said: ‘We want you to take over, starting tomorrow, at any cost.’ I told them I’d have to speak to my family and commercial partners but they just said they would sort all that out. And like that, I was straight in from the commentary box. You’ll see when I joined the setup [during the ODIs], I was still in jeans and loafers. Instantly my job changed."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-one-comes-your-way-former-coach-ravi-shastri-reveals-how-team-india-tackled-australias-sledging-473996">'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging</a>

After serving as the team director for two years, Shastri was the frontrunner to be India's next coach post Duncan Fletcher's end of tenure. Shastri continued his job as the team director despite Fletcher's exit in 2015. However, Anil Kumble took over as the head coach for a year, in 2016, before the job went to Shastri post the 2017 Champions Trophy. The former cricketer recalled his first agenda after taking over as the head coach of Team India.

“We also had slingers [coaches with dogsticks] in the nets smashing the ball in at 160kph from 16 yards. Guys had no choice. There was no dodging, I’d stand behind the stumps to make sure of that. No matter who the person was, he had to go through that. The slingers would seriously let it rip and guys would look ugly. But you are meant to look ugly in the nets. In England, you have to grind and earn your runs."

“The same with the bowlers, we told them to stick in because there is a five-wicket session at any given time in England and at Lord’s and the Oval this decided the result. And we knew winning in Australia or England wasn’t coming with spin, it was fast bowlers, guys with aggression like Jasprit Bumrah. We were instrumental in making sure that guy played Test cricket. You don’t even need express pace, you just need attitude," Shastri opined.

Under Shastri, India were dominant across formats in bilateral series -- winning two Tests in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom -- played the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and inaugural WTC final.

Ravi Shastri has donned several roles in Indian cricket. The former all-rounder turned into a successful commentator before serving as Team India's head coach from 2017 to 2021.

Ravi Shastri has donned several roles in Indian cricket. The former all-rounder turned into a successful commentator before serving as Team India's head coach from 2017 to 2021. However, he also fulfilled the role of the team director for the national side twice, in 2007 (during the Bangladesh tour) and from 2014 to 2016. Before his appointment as India's team director in 2014, during MS Dhoni & Co.'s England tour, Shastri had no time to react as the BCCI asked him to come onboard as soon as possible. Back then, he was part of the commentary panel for India-England Tests, where the Dhoni-led visitors were being hammered left, right and center (eventually losing 3-1). Recalling his appointment, Shastri told The Guardian, “I had no warning. I was commentating at the Oval during India’s [2014] tour of England and came off air to find six or seven missed calls. ‘Seven bloody calls? What’s happened here?’. [The BCCI] just said: ‘We want you to take over, starting tomorrow, at any cost.’ I told them I’d have to speak to my family and commercial partners but they just said they would sort all that out. And like that, I was straight in from the commentary box. You’ll see when I joined the setup [during the ODIs], I was still in jeans and loafers. Instantly my job changed." ALSO READ | 'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging After serving as the team director for two years, Shastri was the frontrunner to be India's next coach post Duncan Fletcher's end of tenure. Shastri continued his job as the team director despite Fletcher's exit in 2015. However, Anil Kumble took over as the head coach for a year, in 2016, before the job went to Shastri post the 2017 Champions Trophy. The former cricketer recalled his first agenda after taking over as the head coach of Team India. “We also had slingers [coaches with dogsticks] in the nets smashing the ball in at 160kph from 16 yards. Guys had no choice. There was no dodging, I’d stand behind the stumps to make sure of that. No matter who the person was, he had to go through that. The slingers would seriously let it rip and guys would look ugly. But you are meant to look ugly in the nets. In England, you have to grind and earn your runs." “The same with the bowlers, we told them to stick in because there is a five-wicket session at any given time in England and at Lord’s and the Oval this decided the result. And we knew winning in Australia or England wasn’t coming with spin, it was fast bowlers, guys with aggression like Jasprit Bumrah. We were instrumental in making sure that guy played Test cricket. You don’t even need express pace, you just need attitude," Shastri opined. Under Shastri, India were dominant across formats in bilateral series -- winning two Tests in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom -- played the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and inaugural WTC final.

'We want you to take over at any cost' - Ravi Shastri on being appointed Team India's director in 2014

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace. Last year, the young pacer was the star performer for Babar Azam &amp; Co. as Pakistan finally ended their winless streak versus India in World Cup history.

With India and Pakistan playing each other in their respective Super 12 opening clash in 2021 T20 World Cup, in Dubai, Shaheen returned with a match-winning spell of 3 for 31 -- dismissing India's Big Three in Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli -- as Pakistan restricted India for&nbsp;151-7 before the one-time winners chased it down with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare.

Recently, in conversation with Geo Super, Shaheen revealed he had a chat with Shahid Afridi to get some tips ahead of the marquee clash versus India. "When we had that match against India in the T20 World Cup, I requested Lala to have a word with me. Because before that I played just one match against India, that too in Asia Cup, which was in One-Day format. And this was a T20 game and we never won a World Cup game against India," Shaheen said.

"So I thought that this was a big opportunity for me. So I called Lala for some tips and asked him, 'What different do I do today?'. He gave me very good advice and told, 'Do something so that the entire stadium notices only Shaheen' and give your 100 percent in bowling and fielding. I just did that and we got the results,” he added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-one-comes-your-way-former-coach-ravi-shastri-reveals-how-team-india-tackled-australias-sledging-473996">'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging</a>

Shahid Afridi has had some memorable performances versus India during his playing days for Pakistan. Thus, his words surely encouraged a young Shaheen, who was highly impressive versus India and led the Men in Green to a stunning ten-wicket win at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;

Babar-led Pakistan, however, couldn't reach the tournament final in last year's edition, losing to eventual winners Australia in the semi-finals.
</section>

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace.

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace. Last year, the young pacer was the star performer for Babar Azam & Co. as Pakistan finally ended their winless streak versus India in World Cup history. With India and Pakistan playing each other in their respective Super 12 opening clash in 2021 T20 World Cup, in Dubai, Shaheen returned with a match-winning spell of 3 for 31 -- dismissing India's Big Three in Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli -- as Pakistan restricted India for 151-7 before the one-time winners chased it down with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare. Recently, in conversation with Geo Super, Shaheen revealed he had a chat with Shahid Afridi to get some tips ahead of the marquee clash versus India. "When we had that match against India in the T20 World Cup, I requested Lala to have a word with me. Because before that I played just one match against India, that too in Asia Cup, which was in One-Day format. And this was a T20 game and we never won a World Cup game against India," Shaheen said. "So I thought that this was a big opportunity for me. So I called Lala for some tips and asked him, 'What different do I do today?'. He gave me very good advice and told, 'Do something so that the entire stadium notices only Shaheen' and give your 100 percent in bowling and fielding. I just did that and we got the results,” he added. ALSO READ | 'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging Shahid Afridi has had some memorable performances versus India during his playing days for Pakistan. Thus, his words surely encouraged a young Shaheen, who was highly impressive versus India and led the Men in Green to a stunning ten-wicket win at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Babar-led Pakistan, however, couldn't reach the tournament final in last year's edition, losing to eventual winners Australia in the semi-finals.

Shaheen Afridi recalls chat with Shahid Afridi before match-winning spell against India in T20 World Cup

Former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen is in awe of the Wankhede crowd's reaction when MS Dhoni came out to bat in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) tough 188-run chase versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 38 of IPL 2022 edition, held on Monday evening (April 25).

After the fall of Ambati Rayudu, who played a stupendous 39-ball 78, the Wankhede crowd gave him a resounding cheer before shifting focus on Dhoni, the former CSK skipper. Dhoni came out in the middle on the back of a match-winning 13-ball 28 not out in Chennai's win over Mumbai in their last encounter. With the equation reading 35 off 13 balls, the CSK loyalists -- who were in majority at the Wankhede -- still pinned their hopes on the 40-year-old.

Dhoni started the final over, with CSK in need of an improbable 27, with a huge six to light up the atmosphere. However, he fell on the third delivery for an 8-ball 12. Despite his dismissal and CSK's defeat, the crowd was still buzzing, which left Pietersen stunned. The former cricketer feels such a rousing crowd response is one of the reasons why IPL deserves to be held in India. He also opined that it is the reason for&nbsp;the league, CSK, and Dhoni's ever-increasing followers worldwide.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-breaks-rohit-sharmas-record-achieves-elsuive-milestone-against-csk-in-ipl-474003">Shikhar Dhawan breaks Rohit Sharma's record, achieves elusive milestone against CSK in IPL</a>

"It was unbelievable. It was incredible. That's exactly why the IPL deserves to be played in the country. The energy and excitement of that man coming to the wicket is none other than like anywhere else," Pietersen told Star Sports. 
 
"It's not a full capacity here as the bottom tier is placarded because of the restrictions. However, that did not matter at all. It was difficult calling the game, it was so noisy inside the commentary box. The support for him, the CSK and the IPL is incredible. It's still noisy. The game's finished, they lost and it's still noisy. Incredible!," opined Pietersen.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youre-bowling-at-him-theres-not-one-red-shirt-in-crowd-rabada-praises-rishi-after-pbks-beat-csk-473940">You're bowling at him, there's not one red shirt in crowd: Rabada praises Rishi after PBKS beat CSK</a>

Talking about the PBKS-CSK face-off, the Mayank Agarwal-led side completed a double over seventh-ranked Chennai with a hard-fought 11-run win. Being asked to bat first, they rode on Shikhar Dhawan's 88 to post 187-4 before Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada and Rishi Dhawan starred with the ball to restrict CSK for 176-6.

Former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen is in awe of the Wankhede crowd's reaction when MS Dhoni came out to bat in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) tough 188-run chase versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 38 of IPL 2022 edition, held on Monday evening (April 25).

Former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen is in awe of the Wankhede crowd's reaction when MS Dhoni came out to bat in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) tough 188-run chase versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 38 of IPL 2022 edition, held on Monday evening (April 25). After the fall of Ambati Rayudu, who played a stupendous 39-ball 78, the Wankhede crowd gave him a resounding cheer before shifting focus on Dhoni, the former CSK skipper. Dhoni came out in the middle on the back of a match-winning 13-ball 28 not out in Chennai's win over Mumbai in their last encounter. With the equation reading 35 off 13 balls, the CSK loyalists -- who were in majority at the Wankhede -- still pinned their hopes on the 40-year-old. Dhoni started the final over, with CSK in need of an improbable 27, with a huge six to light up the atmosphere. However, he fell on the third delivery for an 8-ball 12. Despite his dismissal and CSK's defeat, the crowd was still buzzing, which left Pietersen stunned. The former cricketer feels such a rousing crowd response is one of the reasons why IPL deserves to be held in India. He also opined that it is the reason for the league, CSK, and Dhoni's ever-increasing followers worldwide. ALSO READ | Shikhar Dhawan breaks Rohit Sharma's record, achieves elusive milestone against CSK in IPL "It was unbelievable. It was incredible. That's exactly why the IPL deserves to be played in the country. The energy and excitement of that man coming to the wicket is none other than like anywhere else," Pietersen told Star Sports. "It's not a full capacity here as the bottom tier is placarded because of the restrictions. However, that did not matter at all. It was difficult calling the game, it was so noisy inside the commentary box. The support for him, the CSK and the IPL is incredible. It's still noisy. The game's finished, they lost and it's still noisy. Incredible!," opined Pietersen. ALSO READ | You're bowling at him, there's not one red shirt in crowd: Rabada praises Rishi after PBKS beat CSK Talking about the PBKS-CSK face-off, the Mayank Agarwal-led side completed a double over seventh-ranked Chennai with a hard-fought 11-run win. Being asked to bat first, they rode on Shikhar Dhawan's 88 to post 187-4 before Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada and Rishi Dhawan starred with the ball to restrict CSK for 176-6.

Unbelievable: Pietersen reacts to Wankhede crowd's cheering for MS Dhoni during CSK run-chase vs PBKS

Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format. Thus, India were at the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings for a long period of time, played the inaugural WTC final, dominated at home and even tasted success in SENA countries.

While India came close to beating South Africa in three Tests in the African nation, in early 2018, they lost the series 2-1. In England, they lost 4-1 in 2018 before turning it around with an unassailable 2-1 lead in an incomplete five-match Test series in 2021. They struggled in New Zealand but won two series on the trot versus Australia in their own backyard during the Kohli-Shastri era.

Shastri became the first Asian coach to win a series in Australia when Kohli &amp; Co. won 2-1 in the 2018/19 tour. The series scoreline remained the same when India toured Australia and played the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in 2020/21. Thus, it is safe to claim that the national side's playing style, mannerism and body language went through a rapid change under Shastri's coaching and Kohli's leadership.

Reflecting on India's twin success in Australia, Shastri recently spilled the beans on how he pumped up the Indian players and helped them in tackling the Aussies' sledging. "It was also outlining how we want to play: to be aggressive and ruthless, to up the fitness levels, to get a group of fast bowlers to take 20 wickets overseas. And it was about attitude, especially when playing the Aussies. I told the boys if one single expletive comes your way, give them three back: two in our language and one in theirs," said Shastri to the&nbsp;Guardian.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-bcci-to-do-away-with-bio-bubbles-and-hard-quarantine-senior-players-to-be-rested-report-473961">India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report</a>

While Cheteshwar Pujara, Kohli, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah were India's star performers in the 2-1 Test series win over Australia in 2018/19, the visitors overcame various obstacles (injury concerns, Covid-19 bio-bubbles, sledging, racism) and played sans regular captain Kohli to triumph in the 2020/21 series Down Under. Back then, several youngsters such as Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Pant, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan, etc. stood tall along with contributions from stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin.

Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format.

Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format. Thus, India were at the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings for a long period of time, played the inaugural WTC final, dominated at home and even tasted success in SENA countries. While India came close to beating South Africa in three Tests in the African nation, in early 2018, they lost the series 2-1. In England, they lost 4-1 in 2018 before turning it around with an unassailable 2-1 lead in an incomplete five-match Test series in 2021. They struggled in New Zealand but won two series on the trot versus Australia in their own backyard during the Kohli-Shastri era. Shastri became the first Asian coach to win a series in Australia when Kohli & Co. won 2-1 in the 2018/19 tour. The series scoreline remained the same when India toured Australia and played the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in 2020/21. Thus, it is safe to claim that the national side's playing style, mannerism and body language went through a rapid change under Shastri's coaching and Kohli's leadership. Reflecting on India's twin success in Australia, Shastri recently spilled the beans on how he pumped up the Indian players and helped them in tackling the Aussies' sledging. "It was also outlining how we want to play: to be aggressive and ruthless, to up the fitness levels, to get a group of fast bowlers to take 20 wickets overseas. And it was about attitude, especially when playing the Aussies. I told the boys if one single expletive comes your way, give them three back: two in our language and one in theirs," said Shastri to the Guardian. ALSO READ | India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report While Cheteshwar Pujara, Kohli, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah were India's star performers in the 2-1 Test series win over Australia in 2018/19, the visitors overcame various obstacles (injury concerns, Covid-19 bio-bubbles, sledging, racism) and played sans regular captain Kohli to triumph in the 2020/21 series Down Under. Back then, several youngsters such as Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Pant, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan, etc. stood tall along with contributions from stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin.

'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging

The cricketing action will continue in IPL 2022 as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will lock horns with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 39 of the ongoing season. The match is set to be held at the Maharashtra Cricket Stadium, Pune. The venue will return as host in IPL 15 after a long gap ever since the Covid cases rose up in the Delhi Capitals (DC) camp (shifting two games from Pune to Mumbai).

This will be the third reverse fixture of the season as RCB and RR have already squared off with each other earlier in IPL 15. Back then, the match went down to the wire before Dinesh Karthik-Shahbad Ahmed's finishing knocks propelled RCB to an emphatic four-wicket win in pursuit of a competitive 170. The game was held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-lied-to-me-rcb-pacer-harshal-patel-recalls-how-ipl-franchises-betrayed-him-in-2018-player-auction-473969">'They lied to me': RCB pacer Harshal Patel recalls how IPL franchises betrayed him in 2018 player auction</a>

Talking about their current form, RCB are coming into this fixture on the back of a disastrous outing versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), where they were bundled out for 68. Thus, they will like to start afresh and come hard against RR, against whom they have been unbeaten in the last five face-offs. RCB still have a solid chance of qualifying for the playoffs, with five wins from eight games. However, they cannot afford to lose grip in the crunch phase of the league stage. They occupy the fifth spot at present.

Meanwhile, Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan are in the third position with five victories from seven outings. While they have had a good run so far, they will like to find answers against Bengaluru to stop the three-time runners-up's&nbsp;dominance over them.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rcbs-embarrassing-49-to-kkrs-shambolic-68-five-lowest-totals-in-ipl-473762">From RCB's embarrassing 49 to KKR's woeful 68: Five lowest totals in IPL</a>

Match prediction for RCB vs RR clash:&nbsp;With the venue returning back as hosts after a long gap, both teams might prefer chasing (teams batting second have a 50% win record). Expect another riveting contest with runs on offer. RCB to bounce back and maintain its dominance over RR?

The cricketing action will continue in IPL 2022 as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will lock horns with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 39 of the ongoing season.

The cricketing action will continue in IPL 2022 as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will lock horns with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 39 of the ongoing season. The match is set to be held at the Maharashtra Cricket Stadium, Pune. The venue will return as host in IPL 15 after a long gap ever since the Covid cases rose up in the Delhi Capitals (DC) camp (shifting two games from Pune to Mumbai). This will be the third reverse fixture of the season as RCB and RR have already squared off with each other earlier in IPL 15. Back then, the match went down to the wire before Dinesh Karthik-Shahbad Ahmed's finishing knocks propelled RCB to an emphatic four-wicket win in pursuit of a competitive 170. The game was held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. ALSO READ | 'They lied to me': RCB pacer Harshal Patel recalls how IPL franchises betrayed him in 2018 player auction Talking about their current form, RCB are coming into this fixture on the back of a disastrous outing versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), where they were bundled out for 68. Thus, they will like to start afresh and come hard against RR, against whom they have been unbeaten in the last five face-offs. RCB still have a solid chance of qualifying for the playoffs, with five wins from eight games. However, they cannot afford to lose grip in the crunch phase of the league stage. They occupy the fifth spot at present. Meanwhile, Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan are in the third position with five victories from seven outings. While they have had a good run so far, they will like to find answers against Bengaluru to stop the three-time runners-up's dominance over them. ALSO READ | From RCB's embarrassing 49 to KKR's woeful 68: Five lowest totals in IPL Match prediction for RCB vs RR clash: With the venue returning back as hosts after a long gap, both teams might prefer chasing (teams batting second have a 50% win record). Expect another riveting contest with runs on offer. RCB to bounce back and maintain its dominance over RR?

RCB vs RR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Rajasthan Royals match?

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa. Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will arrive in India for five T20Is, from June 09-June 19, as the bilateral series will be a preparation for both sides for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen on doing away with bio-bubbles and also getting rid of hard quarantine for the South Africa home series. As per the board's senior official, bio-bubbles are taking a hard toll on cricketers and, hence, it is likely that the players will benefit with more freedom given to them this time around.

For the unversed,&nbsp;the bilateral series for India, prior to the ongoing IPL season, have all been played under bio-bubbles. In fact, even IPL 2022 is being conducted within the bio-bubble environment. Thus, this will be a welcome change for players if a change is implemented by the BCCI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-told-umran-malik-he-is-the-future-of-indian-cricket-reveals-srh-speedsters-father-473906">Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni told Umran Malik he is the future of Indian cricket, reveals SRH speedster's father</a>

"If all goes well and things remain in control like it is right now, there will be no bio-bubbles and hard quarantine during the home series against South Africa," a senior BCCI official told the&nbsp;Press Trust of India

The official also indicated that some senior players are set to be rested for the SA series. "Then we are going to Ireland and England and there won't be any bio-bubble in those countries too. Some players have got periodic breaks but if you look at the bigger picture, living in bio-bubble one series after another and now two months of IPL is simply exhausting for the players," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-have-to-displace-pant-manjrekar-explains-why-dinesh-karthik-might-not-get-into-indias-playing-xi-473771">'He will have to displace Pant': Manjrekar explains why Dinesh Karthik might not get into India's playing XI</a>

Some multi-format players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to miss the SA series. Some of them will play only a few matches whereas some will be allowed to skip the entire series.

Following the SA series, India play two T20Is versus hosts Ireland and also play&nbsp;1 Test, 3 T20Is, and 3 ODIs in England soon after. Thus, some key players are set&nbsp;to remain out of action in the SA T20Is to remain fresh with T20 World Cup in mind.

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa.

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa. Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will arrive in India for five T20Is, from June 09-June 19, as the bilateral series will be a preparation for both sides for the 2022 T20 World Cup. As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen on doing away with bio-bubbles and also getting rid of hard quarantine for the South Africa home series. As per the board's senior official, bio-bubbles are taking a hard toll on cricketers and, hence, it is likely that the players will benefit with more freedom given to them this time around. For the unversed, the bilateral series for India, prior to the ongoing IPL season, have all been played under bio-bubbles. In fact, even IPL 2022 is being conducted within the bio-bubble environment. Thus, this will be a welcome change for players if a change is implemented by the BCCI. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni told Umran Malik he is the future of Indian cricket, reveals SRH speedster's father "If all goes well and things remain in control like it is right now, there will be no bio-bubbles and hard quarantine during the home series against South Africa," a senior BCCI official told the Press Trust of India The official also indicated that some senior players are set to be rested for the SA series. "Then we are going to Ireland and England and there won't be any bio-bubble in those countries too. Some players have got periodic breaks but if you look at the bigger picture, living in bio-bubble one series after another and now two months of IPL is simply exhausting for the players," he added. ALSO READ | 'He will have to displace Pant': Manjrekar explains why Dinesh Karthik might not get into India's playing XI Some multi-format players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to miss the SA series. Some of them will play only a few matches whereas some will be allowed to skip the entire series. Following the SA series, India play two T20Is versus hosts Ireland and also play 1 Test, 3 T20Is, and 3 ODIs in England soon after. Thus, some key players are set to remain out of action in the SA T20Is to remain fresh with T20 World Cup in mind.

India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report

From RCB's embarrassing 49 to KKR's woeful 68: Five lowest totals in IPL

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu has split with German coach Torben Beltz after working with him for five months, the BBC reported on Tuesday. Raducanu appointed Beltz as her coach in November after she had parted ways with Andrew Richardson following her surprise triumph at Flushing Meadows, where she became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam.

The 19-year-old said she needed "a new training model" and that Britain`s Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) would support her in the interim. "I want to thank Torben for his coaching, professionalism and dedication over the last half a year," the BBC quoted her as saying in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wta-roundup-young-star-emma-raducanu-to-meet-iga-swiatek-in-stuttgart-473055">WTA roundup: Young star Emma Raducanu to meet Iga Swiatek in Stuttgart</a>

"He has a huge heart and I have enjoyed our strong chemistry during the time together. 
"I feel the best direction for my development is to transition to a new training model with the LTA supporting in the interim." Reuters has requested comment from Raducanu and the LTA.

Raducanu, ranked 11th in the world, lost to world number one Iga Swiatek in the quarter-finals of the Stuttgart Open last week.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu has split with German coach Torben Beltz after working with him for five months, the BBC reported on Tuesday. Raducanu appointed Beltz as her coach in November after she had parted ways with Andrew Richardson following her surprise triumph at Flushing Meadows, where she became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu has split with German coach Torben Beltz after working with him for five months, the BBC reported on Tuesday. Raducanu appointed Beltz as her coach in November after she had parted ways with Andrew Richardson following her surprise triumph at Flushing Meadows, where she became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam. The 19-year-old said she needed "a new training model" and that Britain`s Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) would support her in the interim. "I want to thank Torben for his coaching, professionalism and dedication over the last half a year," the BBC quoted her as saying in a statement. ALSO READ | WTA roundup: Young star Emma Raducanu to meet Iga Swiatek in Stuttgart "He has a huge heart and I have enjoyed our strong chemistry during the time together. "I feel the best direction for my development is to transition to a new training model with the LTA supporting in the interim." Reuters has requested comment from Raducanu and the LTA. Raducanu, ranked 11th in the world, lost to world number one Iga Swiatek in the quarter-finals of the Stuttgart Open last week.

US Open champion Emma Raducanu splits with coach Torben Beltz after five months

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