Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Andre Russell talked about the disastrous batting collapse against Mumbai Indians, crushing defeat, failure to finish the chase with Dinesh Karthik, Chennai pitch and more

Disappointing defeat against Mumbai Indians, will learn from it: KKR's Andre Russell

Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned.

Haruo Ozaki sounded the alarm as rising daily cases prompt new virus restrictions in Tokyo and elsewhere in Japan.

"If infections spread further, in reality it would be difficult to hold the Olympics in its regular form with athletes coming from various countries, even if the Games are held with no spectators," the Sports Hochi daily quoted him as saying at a Tuesday press conference.

On his Facebook page Wednesday, Ozaki said the report reflected his concerns, even though recent successes by Japanese swimmer Rikako Ikee and golfer Hideki Matsuyama had been inspiring.

"I couldn't hold back my tears watching Ikee and Matsuyama's great performances. I want to watch their great performances at the Olympics too," he wrote.

"But, from my position as the head of medical workers, I have to say that holding the Games is really difficult."

Ozaki called on organisers to "show concrete measures on how they can prevent the spread of infection at home and abroad."

"Then we would like to sincerely study if such a plan is realistic," he wrote.

The comments come as Tokyo marks 100 days until the virus-postponed 2020 Olympics open on July 23.

The rise in Covid-19 cases in Japan and abroad is fuelling concerns about whether the Games can, or should, go ahead.

New virus restrictions have been put in place in several parts of Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka.

The measures are significantly looser than lockdowns seen in other parts of the world, but they have forced the Olympic torch relay off public roads in Osaka.

Instead, the flame is being carried along a closed course inside a park with the public kept away.

Olympic organisers have released a series of virus rulebooks they say will keep the Games safe.

They will bar overseas spectators, limit the movement of athletes and require regular virus testing.

But vaccination will not be required and quarantine rules will be waived for Olympic participants.

Polls show a majority of people in Japan want the Games postponed or cancelled.&nbsp;

Support for holding the event this summer has risen since a winter surge in infections, but still hovers below 30 percent.

Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned.

Holding the postponed Tokyo Olympics this summer will be "really difficult" given a spike in coronavirus infections across Japan, the head of the Tokyo Medical Association has warned. Haruo Ozaki sounded the alarm as rising daily cases prompt new virus restrictions in Tokyo and elsewhere in Japan. "If infections spread further, in reality it would be difficult to hold the Olympics in its regular form with athletes coming from various countries, even if the Games are held with no spectators," the Sports Hochi daily quoted him as saying at a Tuesday press conference. On his Facebook page Wednesday, Ozaki said the report reflected his concerns, even though recent successes by Japanese swimmer Rikako Ikee and golfer Hideki Matsuyama had been inspiring. "I couldn't hold back my tears watching Ikee and Matsuyama's great performances. I want to watch their great performances at the Olympics too," he wrote. "But, from my position as the head of medical workers, I have to say that holding the Games is really difficult." Ozaki called on organisers to "show concrete measures on how they can prevent the spread of infection at home and abroad." "Then we would like to sincerely study if such a plan is realistic," he wrote. The comments come as Tokyo marks 100 days until the virus-postponed 2020 Olympics open on July 23. The rise in Covid-19 cases in Japan and abroad is fuelling concerns about whether the Games can, or should, go ahead. New virus restrictions have been put in place in several parts of Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka. The measures are significantly looser than lockdowns seen in other parts of the world, but they have forced the Olympic torch relay off public roads in Osaka. Instead, the flame is being carried along a closed course inside a park with the public kept away. Olympic organisers have released a series of virus rulebooks they say will keep the Games safe. They will bar overseas spectators, limit the movement of athletes and require regular virus testing. But vaccination will not be required and quarantine rules will be waived for Olympic participants. Polls show a majority of people in Japan want the Games postponed or cancelled. Support for holding the event this summer has risen since a winter surge in infections, but still hovers below 30 percent.

Olympics 'difficult' after virus spikes, Japan medical group warns

Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16.

Greek Tsitsipas, who had been given a bye into the second round, took just one hour and 24 minutes to beat 29th-ranked Russian Karatsev.

The 22-year-old exploited a whopping 32 unforced errors from Karatsev to set up a clash with either Australian John Millman or Chile's Cristian Garin.

Novak Djokovic meanwhile will face Jannik Sinner in his second round match after the up-and-coming Italian saw off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4.

Teenager Sinner has risen to 22nd in the world rankings after reaching the final of the Miami Open earlier this month.

"I will definitely have a game plan," Sinner said of what will be his first meeting with Djokovic.

"I know who is on the other side. Obviously it's a tough match I think from my side, because I don't know him that well. I have seen him a lot on TV, watching matches. But when you play against him in a match, it's different. I'm looking forward to that match."

Sinner, one of five Italians to reach the second round Tuesday in Monte Carlo, is 15-5 this year but is competing in the main draw of a Masters 1000 event for just the fourth time.

"It's a good test for my side to see where I am, especially where I can improve," he added. "I know where I can improve, but this kind of match can give me a lot. I just try to go there with the right mentality like in every match."

Earlier on Tuesday, Daniil Medvedev pulled out of the tournament after testing positive for Covid-19.

World number two Medvedev tested positive on Monday having practised with Rafael Nadal the day before.

Organisers, contacted by AFP, declined to comment on whether third seed Nadal risked being identified as a 'close contact' of Medvedev and forced to quarantine.

Nadal is seeded to meet Djokovic in the final as he chases a 12th triumph in Monte Carlo, a key clay court tournament in the run up to the French Open.

Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16.

Stefanos Tsitsipas made a winning start to the Monte Carlo Masters on Tuesday after the world number five cruised past Aslan Karatsev 6-3, 6-4 and into the last 16. Greek Tsitsipas, who had been given a bye into the second round, took just one hour and 24 minutes to beat 29th-ranked Russian Karatsev. The 22-year-old exploited a whopping 32 unforced errors from Karatsev to set up a clash with either Australian John Millman or Chile's Cristian Garin. Novak Djokovic meanwhile will face Jannik Sinner in his second round match after the up-and-coming Italian saw off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4. Teenager Sinner has risen to 22nd in the world rankings after reaching the final of the Miami Open earlier this month. "I will definitely have a game plan," Sinner said of what will be his first meeting with Djokovic. "I know who is on the other side. Obviously it's a tough match I think from my side, because I don't know him that well. I have seen him a lot on TV, watching matches. But when you play against him in a match, it's different. I'm looking forward to that match." Sinner, one of five Italians to reach the second round Tuesday in Monte Carlo, is 15-5 this year but is competing in the main draw of a Masters 1000 event for just the fourth time. "It's a good test for my side to see where I am, especially where I can improve," he added. "I know where I can improve, but this kind of match can give me a lot. I just try to go there with the right mentality like in every match." Earlier on Tuesday, Daniil Medvedev pulled out of the tournament after testing positive for Covid-19. World number two Medvedev tested positive on Monday having practised with Rafael Nadal the day before. Organisers, contacted by AFP, declined to comment on whether third seed Nadal risked being identified as a 'close contact' of Medvedev and forced to quarantine. Nadal is seeded to meet Djokovic in the final as he chases a 12th triumph in Monte Carlo, a key clay court tournament in the run up to the French Open.

Tsitsipas strolls into Monte Carlo last 16, Djokovic to face rising star Sinner

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

Despite a 1-0 quarter-final second-leg victory at the Parc des Princes, Bayern were dumped out of Europe after a 3-3 aggregate draw.

"It wasn't tonight that saw us knocked out," Neuer said. "The 1-0 win here was deserved but it was the result in Munich (3-2 loss) which wasn't good. We were in a bad position at kick-off."

Bayern dominated for long periods over the tie, especially in the first leg when they had 31 attempts at the PSG goal but could only convert two of them without injured top-scorer Robert Lewandowski and winger Serge Gnabry.

"It was annoying to have missed so many chances in the first leg," added Neuer.

"Was Lewandowski missed? We missed all the players who weren't there tonight. Against a classy team like PSG, it's difficult.

"But the players who were on the pitch gave it their all."

Hansi Flick's Bayern will now turn their attentions to winning a ninth straight Bundesliga title, with the Bavarian giants sitting five points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table.

"We have a good chance of winning the Bundesliga, at the end it will still be a positive season," insisted Neuer.

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. Despite a 1-0 quarter-final second-leg victory at the Parc des Princes, Bayern were dumped out of Europe after a 3-3 aggregate draw. "It wasn't tonight that saw us knocked out," Neuer said. "The 1-0 win here was deserved but it was the result in Munich (3-2 loss) which wasn't good. We were in a bad position at kick-off." Bayern dominated for long periods over the tie, especially in the first leg when they had 31 attempts at the PSG goal but could only convert two of them without injured top-scorer Robert Lewandowski and winger Serge Gnabry. "It was annoying to have missed so many chances in the first leg," added Neuer. "Was Lewandowski missed? We missed all the players who weren't there tonight. Against a classy team like PSG, it's difficult. "But the players who were on the pitch gave it their all." Hansi Flick's Bayern will now turn their attentions to winning a ninth straight Bundesliga title, with the Bavarian giants sitting five points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table. "We have a good chance of winning the Bundesliga, at the end it will still be a positive season," insisted Neuer.

Neuer blames first-leg loss for Bayern's Champions League exit

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.

Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon.

It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side.

But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund.

Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties.

They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019.

There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss.

This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half.

"This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago.

<h2>- 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave -</h2>

The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg.

That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade.

In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase.

"We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out.

Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon.

PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining.

Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions.

The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid.

"Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport.

"We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy. Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon. It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side. But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund. Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties. They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019. There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss. This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half. "This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago. - 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave - The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg. That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade. In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase. "We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out. Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon. PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining. Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions. The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid. "Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport. "We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."

PSG show their mettle with biggest Champions League scalp

Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February.

Sinner, 19, shot to prominence by making it into this month's Miami Open final.

The world number 22 had seen off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 at this Masters 1000 event to book his first ever date with Djokovic.

But it proved a one-sided contest at the Monte Carlo Country Club, with Djokovic sweeping into the next round 6-4, 6-2 in one hour and 34 minutes.

The 18-time Grand Slam champion will next face either Briton Daniel Evans or Hubert Hurkacz, Sinner's Miami conqueror, for a place in the quarter-finals.

The man he is seeded to meet in the final, Rafael Nadal, takes his first steps towards what he hopes will be a 12th title in the Principality against Federico Delbonis.

Nadal was in action three days after practising with Daniil Medvedev, the Russian second seed who was forced to withdraw after testing positive for Covid-19 on Monday.

Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February.

Novak Djokovic swept past promising Italian teenager Jannik Sinner in two sets in Monte Carlo on Wednesday on the Serbian world number one's first appearance since claiming the Australian Open in February. Sinner, 19, shot to prominence by making it into this month's Miami Open final. The world number 22 had seen off Spain's Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 at this Masters 1000 event to book his first ever date with Djokovic. But it proved a one-sided contest at the Monte Carlo Country Club, with Djokovic sweeping into the next round 6-4, 6-2 in one hour and 34 minutes. The 18-time Grand Slam champion will next face either Briton Daniel Evans or Hubert Hurkacz, Sinner's Miami conqueror, for a place in the quarter-finals. The man he is seeded to meet in the final, Rafael Nadal, takes his first steps towards what he hopes will be a 12th title in the Principality against Federico Delbonis. Nadal was in action three days after practising with Daniil Medvedev, the Russian second seed who was forced to withdraw after testing positive for Covid-19 on Monday.

Djokovic silences Sinner on Monte Carlo return

Delhi Capitals, who defeated Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets in their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their fabulous start when they take on the Rajasthan Royals in their second encounter of the season at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. <o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals' all-rounder Chris Woakes expressed that all the players in the Delhi set-up are eager to show their mettle in the upcoming matches, "It's great to get off to a good start. Winning the first game gives a lot of confidence to the team. Everyone's eager to get going. But it's just one performance and there are a lot of games ahead in the IPL. We have to play against some good teams, so we won't getting ahead of ourselves. However, everyone in the group is confident and looking forward to the next few games."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heath-streak-banned-for-8-years-what-icc-acu-found-in-its-investigation-of-case-377541" hreflang="en">Heath Streak banned for 8 years: What ICC ACU found in its investigation of case</a>

While speaking about taking on the Rajasthan Royals in their next game, Woakes said that the JSW and GMR co-owned franchise have picked on a few things from the Royals' thrilling match against Punjab Kings, "It was a good game to watch as a neutral. It was a really good chase by Rajasthan, but unfortunately, they came up a little bit short, however, Sanju Samson played an incredible innings. We watched the game and picked up on a few things that we would like to do against them. But every IPL game is a new game, new day, probably a new surface and whichever team adapts better on the day will probably win the game."

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/even-i-fail-to-read-your-deliveries-how-rohit-sharma-motivated-rahul-chahar-vs-kkr-377534" hreflang="en">Even I fail to read your deliveries: How Rohit Sharma motivated Rahul Chahar vs KKR</a>

Woakes added that he feels for Rajasthan Royals' star all-rounder Ben Stokes, who has been unfortunately ruled out of the IPL 2021 due to a finger injury.<o:p></o:p>

"You want the world's best players playing in the tournament and Ben has done that in the IPL for a few years so it's a shame for him to miss out on the rest of the tournament. I feel for him as a friend as well. But I am sure that he'll come back stronger," signed off Woakes.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals, who defeated Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets in their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their fabulous start when they take on the Rajasthan Royals in their second encounter of the season at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

Delhi Capitals, who defeated Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets in their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, will be looking to build on their fabulous start when they take on the Rajasthan Royals in their second encounter of the season at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. Delhi Capitals' all-rounder Chris Woakes expressed that all the players in the Delhi set-up are eager to show their mettle in the upcoming matches, "It's great to get off to a good start. Winning the first game gives a lot of confidence to the team. Everyone's eager to get going. But it's just one performance and there are a lot of games ahead in the IPL. We have to play against some good teams, so we won't getting ahead of ourselves. However, everyone in the group is confident and looking forward to the next few games." ALSO READ: Heath Streak banned for 8 years: What ICC ACU found in its investigation of case While speaking about taking on the Rajasthan Royals in their next game, Woakes said that the JSW and GMR co-owned franchise have picked on a few things from the Royals' thrilling match against Punjab Kings, "It was a good game to watch as a neutral. It was a really good chase by Rajasthan, but unfortunately, they came up a little bit short, however, Sanju Samson played an incredible innings. We watched the game and picked up on a few things that we would like to do against them. But every IPL game is a new game, new day, probably a new surface and whichever team adapts better on the day will probably win the game." × ALSO READ: Even I fail to read your deliveries: How Rohit Sharma motivated Rahul Chahar vs KKR Woakes added that he feels for Rajasthan Royals' star all-rounder Ben Stokes, who has been unfortunately ruled out of the IPL 2021 due to a finger injury. "You want the world's best players playing in the tournament and Ben has done that in the IPL for a few years so it's a shame for him to miss out on the rest of the tournament. I feel for him as a friend as well. But I am sure that he'll come back stronger," signed off Woakes.

Picked up a few things from Sanju Samson's knock: DC's Chris Woakes looking forward to face RR

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals in Mumbai, DC all-rounder Chris Woakes talked about the much-anticipated match, Sanju Samson's knock vs Punjab King and Ben Stokes' injury.

It's a shame for Ben Stokes to miss rest of IPL: Delhi Capitals' Chris Woakes

Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak has been banned from all cricket for eight years after he accepted five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Streak was charged as a participant under the Code by virtue of his status as the coach of Zimbabwe from 2016 to 2018 and as the coach of various domestic teams.

<h2>The charges are as follows:</h2>

2.3.2 – disclosing inside information under both the ICC Code and various domestic Codes, in circumstances where he knew or should have known that such information may be used for betting purposes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-dethrones-virat-kohli-as-no-1-odi-batsman-in-icc-rankings-377486" hreflang="en">Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings</a>

2.3.3 – directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any participant to breach the Code. In particular, he facilitated or attempted to facilitate the introduction of four different players, including a national captain, to someone he knew, or should have known, may have wanted to approach them to provide inside information for betting purposes.&nbsp;

2.4.2 – Failing to disclose the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefits that the participant knew or should have known was given to them to procure a breach of the Code or that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute.&nbsp;

2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code including in relation to international matches, matches in the 2017 BPL, the 2018 Pakistan Super League, the 2018 IPL and the 2018 APL.&nbsp;

Article 2.4.7 – obstructing or delaying an investigation, including concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant to that investigation and/or that may be evidence of or may lead to the discovery of evidence of corrupt conduct under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

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Under the provisions of the Code, Streak chose to admit the charges and agreed the sanction with the ICC in lieu of an Anti-Corruption Tribunal hearing. He will be free to resume his involvement in the game on 28 March 2029.

Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Heath Streak is an experienced former international cricketer and national team coach, who had participated in numerous anti-corruption education sessions and was fully aware of his responsibilities under the Code.

“As a former captain and coach, he held a position of trust and owed a duty to uphold the integrity of the game. He breached the Code on several occasions, including facilitating the approach of four other players. At times, he also sought to obstruct and delay our investigation.

“The offences did not affect the outcomes of any relevant matches and Mr Streak has agreed to assist the ICC anti-corruption education programme for which we are grateful. He has also expressed his remorse and contrition and entered this agreed sanction decision to avoid the need for a full disciplinary process. The sanction reflects this cooperation.”

Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak has been banned from all cricket for eight years after he accepted five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Streak was charged as a participant under the Code by virtue of his status as the coach of Zimbabwe from 2016 to 2018 and as the coach of various domestic teams.

Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak has been banned from all cricket for eight years after he accepted five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Streak was charged as a participant under the Code by virtue of his status as the coach of Zimbabwe from 2016 to 2018 and as the coach of various domestic teams. The charges are as follows: 2.3.2 – disclosing inside information under both the ICC Code and various domestic Codes, in circumstances where he knew or should have known that such information may be used for betting purposes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018. ALSO READ: Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings 2.3.3 – directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any participant to breach the Code. In particular, he facilitated or attempted to facilitate the introduction of four different players, including a national captain, to someone he knew, or should have known, may have wanted to approach them to provide inside information for betting purposes. 2.4.2 – Failing to disclose the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefits that the participant knew or should have known was given to them to procure a breach of the Code or that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute. 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code including in relation to international matches, matches in the 2017 BPL, the 2018 Pakistan Super League, the 2018 IPL and the 2018 APL. Article 2.4.7 – obstructing or delaying an investigation, including concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant to that investigation and/or that may be evidence of or may lead to the discovery of evidence of corrupt conduct under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19 Under the provisions of the Code, Streak chose to admit the charges and agreed the sanction with the ICC in lieu of an Anti-Corruption Tribunal hearing. He will be free to resume his involvement in the game on 28 March 2029. Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Heath Streak is an experienced former international cricketer and national team coach, who had participated in numerous anti-corruption education sessions and was fully aware of his responsibilities under the Code. “As a former captain and coach, he held a position of trust and owed a duty to uphold the integrity of the game. He breached the Code on several occasions, including facilitating the approach of four other players. At times, he also sought to obstruct and delay our investigation. “The offences did not affect the outcomes of any relevant matches and Mr Streak has agreed to assist the ICC anti-corruption education programme for which we are grateful. He has also expressed his remorse and contrition and entered this agreed sanction decision to avoid the need for a full disciplinary process. The sanction reflects this cooperation.”

Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak banned for eight years under ICC Anti-Corruption Code

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday (April 14) suspended former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak from cricket for a period of eight years after accepting five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The legendary Zimbabwean pacer was charged under the Code of the virtue of his status as the coach of the Zimbabwe national team from 2016 to 2018 and as coach of various domestic teams.

Heath accepted disclosing information under both ICC Code and various domestic Codes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018.

But what information was gathered during the entire investigation process involving Heath Streak? ICC provided a redacted document of information obtained through its investigation, ultimately leading to an eight-year ban for Streak.

<ol>
	<li>In September 2017, Mr Streak began a WhatsApp conversation with an Indian gentleman, Mr X, at Mr X's instigation, who said he was interested in organizing a league in Zimbabwe and who asked Mr Streak if he would be interested as he could earn some good money from it.</li>
	<li>During these discussions, Mr X made it clear to Mr Streak that he was involved in betting on cricket, and also requested details of Mr Streak's bank account outside Zimbabwe, which Mr Streak provided. Mr Streak also made it clear in these discussions that he wanted to establish a T20 League in Zimbabwe and was passionate about furthering cricket in Zimbabwe.</li>
	<li>These conversations took place via personal email addresses and phones and not official ones, at both Mr Streak and Mr X's request.</li>
</ol>

During the course of these conversations, which lasted for a period of more than 15 months, Mr X asked Mr Streak to provide him with various information in relation to tournaments and matches he was involved with.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zimbabawes-former-cricket-captain-heath-streak-banned-for-eight-years-under-icc-anti-corruption-code-377514" hreflang="en">Zimbabwe's former cricket captain Heath Streak banned for eight years under ICC Anti-Corruption Code</a>

In particular:

<ul>
	<li>In relation to the 2017 edition of the Bangladesh Premier League, (the "BPL"), Mr X asked Mr Streak to provide him with any links, namely team captains, or owners or players, in the BPL, saying they could earn good money as a result which they could invest in a T20 event in Zimbabwe. It appeared that Mr X wanted Mr Streak to provide him with contacts of players, team owners etc. who Mr X could then approach for Inside Information, such as which team would win a match, in upcoming matches.</li>
	<li>Mr Streak provided Mr X with the contact details of three players in the BPL (including the details of a national captain), in circumstances where he knew or should have known that Mr X may use these details to contact these players and request Inside Information from them for him to use for betting purposes. Further, in respect of two of these players, Mr Streak actually contacted the players to effectively vouch for Mr X.</li>
	<li>Mr X asked for player references for the Pakistan Super League 2018.</li>
	<li>In relation to the 2018 edition of the Afghanistan Premier League (the "APL"), Mr Streak facilitated the introduction of Mr X to one player and attempted to facilitate the introduction of Mr X to another player.</li>
	<li>Mr X also requested, and Mr Streak provided, Inside Information relating to matches in the APL.</li>
</ul>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-dethrones-virat-kohli-as-no-1-odi-batsman-in-icc-rankings-377486" hreflang="en">Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings</a>

<ol>
	<li>Mr Streak has accepted that passing on this information to Mr X amounted to Corrupt Conduct under the Code.</li>
	<li>Mr Streak has also admitted accepting 2 bitcoins from Mr X (subsequently converted into USD 35,000 in cash). Mr Streak has accepted that, despite his obligation to do so, he failed to disclose receipt of this payment to the ICC ACU or any relevant Designated Anti-Corruption Official.</li>
	<li>Mr Streak has also accepted that, despite his obligation to do so, he failed to report any of the approaches he received from Mr X to engage in Corrupt Conduct to the ICC ACU or any relevant Designated Anti-Corruption Official.</li>
	<li>During the APL, Mr X gifted Mr Streak with a new iPhone for his wife, a gift which Mr Streak has accepted he did not disclose to the ICC ACU or the Designated Anti-Corruption Official.</li>
	<li>In December 2018, Mr Streak was advised by the ACU that he was to attend an interview with the ACU in January. During this call, Mr Streak was given notice that he would be required to present any phones and SIM cards that he had used in 2018 at the interview.</li>
	<li>Prior to his interview with the ACU, Mr Streak engaged in a series of WhatsApp messages with Mr X, knowing that Mr X himself had recently been interviewed by the ACU. These WhatsApp conversations between Mr X and Mr Streak related to what Mr X had told the ACU in his interviews. In these conversations, Mr Streak has admitted that he and Mr X effectively discussed what Mr Streak should say in the interviews to ensure that they both told the same story (a story which on occasions was not true) and consequently he has admitted that his conduct in so doing could be construed as misleading or obstructing the ACU's investigation. Mr Streak also sought clarification from Mr X over the interview process and what Mr X had told the ACU on certain matters.</li>
	<li>Additionally, following this conversation, Mr Streak has admitted that, at the instruction of Mr X, he deleted these messages from his phone before he attended the ACU interview, as well as deleting Mr X's phone number from his phone. In so doing, Mr Streak accepts that his conduct in this regard was wrong. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday (April 14) suspended former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak from cricket for a period of eight years after accepting five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday (April 14) suspended former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak from cricket for a period of eight years after accepting five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The legendary Zimbabwean pacer was charged under the Code of the virtue of his status as the coach of the Zimbabwe national team from 2016 to 2018 and as coach of various domestic teams. Heath accepted disclosing information under both ICC Code and various domestic Codes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018. But what information was gathered during the entire investigation process involving Heath Streak? ICC provided a redacted document of information obtained through its investigation, ultimately leading to an eight-year ban for Streak. In September 2017, Mr Streak began a WhatsApp conversation with an Indian gentleman, Mr X, at Mr X's instigation, who said he was interested in organizing a league in Zimbabwe and who asked Mr Streak if he would be interested as he could earn some good money from it. During these discussions, Mr X made it clear to Mr Streak that he was involved in betting on cricket, and also requested details of Mr Streak's bank account outside Zimbabwe, which Mr Streak provided. Mr Streak also made it clear in these discussions that he wanted to establish a T20 League in Zimbabwe and was passionate about furthering cricket in Zimbabwe. These conversations took place via personal email addresses and phones and not official ones, at both Mr Streak and Mr X's request. During the course of these conversations, which lasted for a period of more than 15 months, Mr X asked Mr Streak to provide him with various information in relation to tournaments and matches he was involved with. ALSO READ: Zimbabwe's former cricket captain Heath Streak banned for eight years under ICC Anti-Corruption Code In particular: In relation to the 2017 edition of the Bangladesh Premier League, (the "BPL"), Mr X asked Mr Streak to provide him with any links, namely team captains, or owners or players, in the BPL, saying they could earn good money as a result which they could invest in a T20 event in Zimbabwe. It appeared that Mr X wanted Mr Streak to provide him with contacts of players, team owners etc. who Mr X could then approach for Inside Information, such as which team would win a match, in upcoming matches. Mr Streak provided Mr X with the contact details of three players in the BPL (including the details of a national captain), in circumstances where he knew or should have known that Mr X may use these details to contact these players and request Inside Information from them for him to use for betting purposes. Further, in respect of two of these players, Mr Streak actually contacted the players to effectively vouch for Mr X. Mr X asked for player references for the Pakistan Super League 2018. In relation to the 2018 edition of the Afghanistan Premier League (the "APL"), Mr Streak facilitated the introduction of Mr X to one player and attempted to facilitate the introduction of Mr X to another player. Mr X also requested, and Mr Streak provided, Inside Information relating to matches in the APL. ALSO READ: Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings Mr Streak has accepted that passing on this information to Mr X amounted to Corrupt Conduct under the Code. Mr Streak has also admitted accepting 2 bitcoins from Mr X (subsequently converted into USD 35,000 in cash). Mr Streak has accepted that, despite his obligation to do so, he failed to disclose receipt of this payment to the ICC ACU or any relevant Designated Anti-Corruption Official. Mr Streak has also accepted that, despite his obligation to do so, he failed to report any of the approaches he received from Mr X to engage in Corrupt Conduct to the ICC ACU or any relevant Designated Anti-Corruption Official. During the APL, Mr X gifted Mr Streak with a new iPhone for his wife, a gift which Mr Streak has accepted he did not disclose to the ICC ACU or the Designated Anti-Corruption Official. In December 2018, Mr Streak was advised by the ACU that he was to attend an interview with the ACU in January. During this call, Mr Streak was given notice that he would be required to present any phones and SIM cards that he had used in 2018 at the interview. Prior to his interview with the ACU, Mr Streak engaged in a series of WhatsApp messages with Mr X, knowing that Mr X himself had recently been interviewed by the ACU. These WhatsApp conversations between Mr X and Mr Streak related to what Mr X had told the ACU in his interviews. In these conversations, Mr Streak has admitted that he and Mr X effectively discussed what Mr Streak should say in the interviews to ensure that they both told the same story (a story which on occasions was not true) and consequently he has admitted that his conduct in so doing could be construed as misleading or obstructing the ACU's investigation. Mr Streak also sought clarification from Mr X over the interview process and what Mr X had told the ACU on certain matters. Additionally, following this conversation, Mr Streak has admitted that, at the instruction of Mr X, he deleted these messages from his phone before he attended the ACU interview, as well as deleting Mr X's phone number from his phone. In so doing, Mr Streak accepts that his conduct in this regard was wrong.

Heath Streak banned for 8 years: What ICC ACU found in its investigation of case

Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

KKR, after restricting Mumbai Indians to 152, were looking comfortable in their chase with openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitching a 72-run stand. However, Chahar turned the game by sending the likes of Gill, Rana, Rahul Tripathi and Eoin Morgan back to the dugout in quick succession. <o:p></o:p>

MI worked the window of opportunity well as KKR choked in the final five overs despite Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik being there on the crease. Chahar was named the Man of the Match for his spell.<o:p></o:p>

After the win, Chahar revealed the words of motivation by skipper Rohit Sharma when he came into the bowl in a crunch situation. Rohit motivated the leg-spinner by saying that even he fails to read his variations and asked him to focus and hit the right lengths.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-pacer-anrich-nortje-tests-positive-for-covid-19-377494" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19</a>

“Rohit told me that ‘bowl with the confidence and sometimes even I fail to read your ball so how would they. Stay focused and hit the right lengths’. I knew that spinner is going to be a game-changer in this match. I had the confidence that I can do that,” Rahul Chahar said in the post-match press conference.<o:p></o:p>

“I enjoyed Rahul Tripathi’s wicket most as that ball turned well. As a leg-spinner, you want that kind of turn and it was exactly like that,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shameful-defeat-sehwag-questions-andre-russell-and-dinesh-karthiks-intent-after-kkr-collapse-377468" hreflang="en">Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse</a>

Chahar further said that he along with Krunal Pandya will play a vital role for Mumbai Indians in spin-friendly pitches in India.<o:p></o:p>

“We both bowled well. Krunal did not give many runs in his spell. In the last match it was not like this but this time there was help from the wicket for spinners. We will play the main role if we get these kinds of wickets."<o:p></o:p>

When asked about the pressure of bowling against big-name international stars, he said, “I was bowling to Indian players in the nets so there was no such pressure in bowling against international stars. This is my fourth year in MI and in the nets also I bowl to Pollard, Hardik who are among the best hitters in the world.”

<o:p></o:p>

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Mumbai Indians will be next seen in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday in Chennai.<o:p></o:p>

Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.

Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday. KKR, after restricting Mumbai Indians to 152, were looking comfortable in their chase with openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitching a 72-run stand. However, Chahar turned the game by sending the likes of Gill, Rana, Rahul Tripathi and Eoin Morgan back to the dugout in quick succession. MI worked the window of opportunity well as KKR choked in the final five overs despite Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik being there on the crease. Chahar was named the Man of the Match for his spell. After the win, Chahar revealed the words of motivation by skipper Rohit Sharma when he came into the bowl in a crunch situation. Rohit motivated the leg-spinner by saying that even he fails to read his variations and asked him to focus and hit the right lengths. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19 “Rohit told me that ‘bowl with the confidence and sometimes even I fail to read your ball so how would they. Stay focused and hit the right lengths’. I knew that spinner is going to be a game-changer in this match. I had the confidence that I can do that,” Rahul Chahar said in the post-match press conference. “I enjoyed Rahul Tripathi’s wicket most as that ball turned well. As a leg-spinner, you want that kind of turn and it was exactly like that,” he added. ALSO READ: Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse Chahar further said that he along with Krunal Pandya will play a vital role for Mumbai Indians in spin-friendly pitches in India. “We both bowled well. Krunal did not give many runs in his spell. In the last match it was not like this but this time there was help from the wicket for spinners. We will play the main role if we get these kinds of wickets." When asked about the pressure of bowling against big-name international stars, he said, “I was bowling to Indian players in the nets so there was no such pressure in bowling against international stars. This is my fourth year in MI and in the nets also I bowl to Pollard, Hardik who are among the best hitters in the world.” × Mumbai Indians will be next seen in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday in Chennai.

Even I fail to read your deliveries: How Rohit Sharma motivated Rahul Chahar vs KKR

Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday. While SRH suffered a defeat in their IPL 2021 opener, RCB defeated defending champions Mumbai Indians to commence their campaign.<o:p></o:p>

RCB are likely to bolster their batting order by involving opener Devdutt Padikkal, who was rested in the opener due to precautionary measure. Both SRH and RCB have balanced side on paper and it would be interesting to see how they use the slow and dry conditions in Chennai on Wednesday. However, there are chances of rain during the SRH and RCB match on Wednesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-pacer-anrich-nortje-tests-positive-for-covid-19-377494" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai - Pitch report</o:p></h2>

The Chennai pitch has been assisting spinners in IPL 2021. While pacers have taken more wickets in Chennai, spinners have dominated the matches more. The last couple of matches have witnessed chasing become difficult in the death overs and it is likely that teams will start to bat first sooner rather than later.

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: Chennai weather forecast - Rain to play spoilsport?</o:p></h2>

Cloudy weather is expected during the course of SRH vs RCB match on Wednesday. According to Accuweather, the temperature is expected to be around 30 degree Celcius. There are chances of rain interruption during the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-dethrones-virat-kohli-as-no-1-odi-batsman-in-icc-rankings-377486" hreflang="en">Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats</o:p></h2>

SRH and RCB have played each other 17 times in IPL history. SRH lead the Bengaluru outfit by 10-7 in what has been a tightly fought battle between two good teams. In IPL 2020, both sides won a match against each other. However, SRH pipped RCB in the Eliminator of IPL 2020.

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Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday.

Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday. While SRH suffered a defeat in their IPL 2021 opener, RCB defeated defending champions Mumbai Indians to commence their campaign. RCB are likely to bolster their batting order by involving opener Devdutt Padikkal, who was rested in the opener due to precautionary measure. Both SRH and RCB have balanced side on paper and it would be interesting to see how they use the slow and dry conditions in Chennai on Wednesday. However, there are chances of rain during the SRH and RCB match on Wednesday. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19 SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai - Pitch report The Chennai pitch has been assisting spinners in IPL 2021. While pacers have taken more wickets in Chennai, spinners have dominated the matches more. The last couple of matches have witnessed chasing become difficult in the death overs and it is likely that teams will start to bat first sooner rather than later. SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: Chennai weather forecast - Rain to play spoilsport? Cloudy weather is expected during the course of SRH vs RCB match on Wednesday. According to Accuweather, the temperature is expected to be around 30 degree Celcius. There are chances of rain interruption during the match. ALSO READ: Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats SRH and RCB have played each other 17 times in IPL history. SRH lead the Bengaluru outfit by 10-7 in what has been a tightly fought battle between two good teams. In IPL 2020, both sides won a match against each other. However, SRH pipped RCB in the Eliminator of IPL 2020. ×

SRH vs RCB, IPL 2021 - Rain to play spoilsport?: Chepauk Stadium pitch report, Chennai weather forecast - All you need to know

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