Delhi Capitals and South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of DC’s second Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. <o:p></o:p>

Nortje and Kagiso Rabada arrived in India on April 6 and were undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine. While Nortje came in with a negative report, he tested positive while undergoing quarantine.<o:p></o:p>

Speaking to ANI, sources in the know of developments said that the pacer tested positive while undergoing quarantine. "He came in with a negative report, but has unfortunately tested positive now while undergoing quarantine," the source said.

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>

The BCCI SOP states that a member of the squad, who tests positive for the dreaded virus, must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or collection of the sample. <o:p></o:p>

Nortje participated in the ODI series against Pakistan. After playing the first two ODIs, the Proteas pacer started his journey to IPL 2021.<o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals now have been dealt with a triple blow in IPL 2021. While regular skipper Shreyas Iyer was ruled out before the tournament started with a shoulder injury, all-rounder Axar Patel tested positive for COVID-19 followed by Nortje's positive report for the virus.&nbsp;

(With ANI inputs)

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Delhi Capitals and South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of DC’s second Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Delhi Capitals and South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of DC’s second Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Nortje and Kagiso Rabada arrived in India on April 6 and were undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine. While Nortje came in with a negative report, he tested positive while undergoing quarantine. Speaking to ANI, sources in the know of developments said that the pacer tested positive while undergoing quarantine. "He came in with a negative report, but has unfortunately tested positive now while undergoing quarantine," the source said. ALSO READ: 'Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse The BCCI SOP states that a member of the squad, who tests positive for the dreaded virus, must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or collection of the sample. Nortje participated in the ODI series against Pakistan. After playing the first two ODIs, the Proteas pacer started his journey to IPL 2021. Delhi Capitals now have been dealt with a triple blow in IPL 2021. While regular skipper Shreyas Iyer was ruled out before the tournament started with a shoulder injury, all-rounder Axar Patel tested positive for COVID-19 followed by Nortje's positive report for the virus. (With ANI inputs) ×

IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update.

Babar replaces Indian captain Virat Kohli at the top of the table with as many as 865 points. Kohli sits second in the latest ICC ODI Rankings with 857 points followed by Rohit Sharma, who has 825 points to his name.

Kohli was the number one ranked ODI batsman from August 2017 to April 2021, counting to 1,258 days.

By ending Kohli’s 1,258 day-supremacy, Babar has emulated compatriots Zaheer Abbas (1983-84), Javed Miandad (1988-89), and Mohammad Yousuf (2003) as the number one ODI batsman. In Tests, Babar has attained the best of the fifth position and is currently ranked sixth while in T20Is he is third but has been number one in the past.

Babar, who was the second-highest run-score in Pakistan’s recently concluded three-match ODI series against South Africa with 228 runs and the highest score of 103, has now dethroned Kohli to sit atop the ICC ODI Rankings.

Babar made his debut against Zimbabwe in 2015 and has amassed 3808 runs in 78 ODI innings at a splendid average of 56.83. The elegant right-handed batsman has 13 centuries and 17 half-centuries under his belt.&nbsp;

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916">List of records Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a>

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A good update for 🇵🇰 
 
Fakhar Zaman, following a brilliant series against South Africa, has surged five places to No.8 in the latest <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC men’s ODI rankings for batsmen 👏 <a href="https://t.co/HheS38uijO">pic.twitter.com/HheS38uijO</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1382252708015443971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman is another Pakistan batsman to move up the ODI batting charts, gaining five slots to reach a career-best seventh position after his knock of 101 while left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi (up four places to a career-best 11th&nbsp;place) and left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (up 29 places to 96th) have progressed thanks to their three-wicket hauls in the match.

For South Africa, all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo has gained 11 slots to reach 83rd&nbsp;position after notching a half-century while captain Temba Bavuma has progressed from 88th&nbsp;to 86th&nbsp;place.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-the-end-of-world-andre-russell-reacts-to-shah-rukh-khans-apology-tweet-after-mi-defeat-377454" hreflang="en">Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat</a>

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Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam on Wednesday became the number one batsman in One-Day International (ODI) cricket, according to the latest ICC ODI Players Rankings update. Babar replaces Indian captain Virat Kohli at the top of the table with as many as 865 points. Kohli sits second in the latest ICC ODI Rankings with 857 points followed by Rohit Sharma, who has 825 points to his name. Kohli was the number one ranked ODI batsman from August 2017 to April 2021, counting to 1,258 days. By ending Kohli’s 1,258 day-supremacy, Babar has emulated compatriots Zaheer Abbas (1983-84), Javed Miandad (1988-89), and Mohammad Yousuf (2003) as the number one ODI batsman. In Tests, Babar has attained the best of the fifth position and is currently ranked sixth while in T20Is he is third but has been number one in the past. Babar, who was the second-highest run-score in Pakistan’s recently concluded three-match ODI series against South Africa with 228 runs and the highest score of 103, has now dethroned Kohli to sit atop the ICC ODI Rankings. Babar made his debut against Zimbabwe in 2015 and has amassed 3808 runs in 78 ODI innings at a splendid average of 56.83. The elegant right-handed batsman has 13 centuries and 17 half-centuries under his belt. ALSO READ: List of records Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 A good update for 🇵🇰 Fakhar Zaman, following a brilliant series against South Africa, has surged five places to No.8 in the latest @MRFWorldwide ICC men’s ODI rankings for batsmen 👏 pic.twitter.com/HheS38uijO — ICC (@ICC) April 14, 2021 × Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman is another Pakistan batsman to move up the ODI batting charts, gaining five slots to reach a career-best seventh position after his knock of 101 while left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi (up four places to a career-best 11th place) and left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (up 29 places to 96th) have progressed thanks to their three-wicket hauls in the match. For South Africa, all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo has gained 11 slots to reach 83rd position after notching a half-century while captain Temba Bavuma has progressed from 88th to 86th place. ALSO READ: Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat ×

Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg.

Tuchel's side will play Real Madrid or Liverpool for a place in the final after producing a masterclass in game management to win 2-1 on aggregate in Seville.

Real travel to Anfield on Wednesday looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg.

They could do worse than copy Tuchel's tactics as Chelsea smothered Porto with an intelligent defensive approach until Mehdi Taremi's stunning bicycle kick in the last minute of stoppage time.

That sublime strike was out of character with the rest of Porto's display as they laboured to overturn the 2-0 first-leg deficit.

Chelsea have lost only once in 18 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January and this was another feather in the German's cap.

Making it to the last four is an even more admirable feat given the lack of Champions League experience among the majority of Tuchel's squad.

Tuchel knows the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Christian Pulisic are all learning on the job, but he hopes their fearlessness will be invaluable.

"Mason scored his first goal in the competition in the first leg. When Mbappe scores or Salah scores or Benzema scores, it is their 100th goal or their 50th goal in the competition," Tuchel said.

"We arrive with a very young team. They can fight and run and hang in there. We have to take it like an adventure for them. It is a big step.

"You see when Chelsea were last in the semi-finals. We are not used to being there. It's a big achievement."

Tuchel had admitted this week was a make or break period for Chelsea.

They passed the first test and can now focus on Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Manchester City at Wembley before returning to the Champions League trail.

"Once you are there you play to reach the final. We need every minute to learn and to grow.&nbsp;You cannot improve without these experiences," Tuchel said.

"We cannot rely on the biggest experience but we can rely on a hard working young group. Hopefully we can stay adventurous to accept the challenge. It will be a big one coming."

<h2>- 'Incredible' Kante -</h2>

Praising France midfielder N'Golo Kante's influential display in his first start since a hamstring injury, Tuchel said: "N'Golo is incredible, he is like one and a half or two players.

"Everyone who sees him for the first time loves him. He wins so many balls and gives everybody confidence."

Tuchel this week said he wouldn't want to fight Antonio Rudiger or Cesar Azpilicueta, such is the ferocious will to win coursing through Chelsea's most vocal players.

Both defenders lived up to Tuchel's billing as they fought tooth and nail to keep Porto at bay in a niggly clash.

Porto manager Sergio Conceicao added: "I'm really frustrated but I'm proud of what we did in both matches.

"Our performance was very good. We were more of a team than Chelsea. We just lacked that bit of efficiency."

Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy gifted Porto a golden opportunity for a priceless early goal when his miscued pass went straight to Jesus Corona inside the penalty area.

But Corona couldn't keep his composure and Jorginho did enough to ensure the shot flashed wide.

Corona's profligacy let Porto down again when he lashed hurriedly over from 12 yards after Ben Chilwell misjudged Otavio's high ball.

Taremi's eye-catching strike with seconds left came far too late for a dramatic finale, with tempers flaring in a heated exchange involving Rudiger and several Porto players after the final whistle.

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg.

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg. Tuchel's side will play Real Madrid or Liverpool for a place in the final after producing a masterclass in game management to win 2-1 on aggregate in Seville. Real travel to Anfield on Wednesday looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg. They could do worse than copy Tuchel's tactics as Chelsea smothered Porto with an intelligent defensive approach until Mehdi Taremi's stunning bicycle kick in the last minute of stoppage time. That sublime strike was out of character with the rest of Porto's display as they laboured to overturn the 2-0 first-leg deficit. Chelsea have lost only once in 18 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January and this was another feather in the German's cap. Making it to the last four is an even more admirable feat given the lack of Champions League experience among the majority of Tuchel's squad. Tuchel knows the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Christian Pulisic are all learning on the job, but he hopes their fearlessness will be invaluable. "Mason scored his first goal in the competition in the first leg. When Mbappe scores or Salah scores or Benzema scores, it is their 100th goal or their 50th goal in the competition," Tuchel said. "We arrive with a very young team. They can fight and run and hang in there. We have to take it like an adventure for them. It is a big step. "You see when Chelsea were last in the semi-finals. We are not used to being there. It's a big achievement." Tuchel had admitted this week was a make or break period for Chelsea. They passed the first test and can now focus on Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Manchester City at Wembley before returning to the Champions League trail. "Once you are there you play to reach the final. We need every minute to learn and to grow. You cannot improve without these experiences," Tuchel said. "We cannot rely on the biggest experience but we can rely on a hard working young group. Hopefully we can stay adventurous to accept the challenge. It will be a big one coming." - 'Incredible' Kante - Praising France midfielder N'Golo Kante's influential display in his first start since a hamstring injury, Tuchel said: "N'Golo is incredible, he is like one and a half or two players. "Everyone who sees him for the first time loves him. He wins so many balls and gives everybody confidence." Tuchel this week said he wouldn't want to fight Antonio Rudiger or Cesar Azpilicueta, such is the ferocious will to win coursing through Chelsea's most vocal players. Both defenders lived up to Tuchel's billing as they fought tooth and nail to keep Porto at bay in a niggly clash. Porto manager Sergio Conceicao added: "I'm really frustrated but I'm proud of what we did in both matches. "Our performance was very good. We were more of a team than Chelsea. We just lacked that bit of efficiency." Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy gifted Porto a golden opportunity for a priceless early goal when his miscued pass went straight to Jesus Corona inside the penalty area. But Corona couldn't keep his composure and Jorginho did enough to ensure the shot flashed wide. Corona's profligacy let Porto down again when he lashed hurriedly over from 12 yards after Ben Chilwell misjudged Otavio's high ball. Taremi's eye-catching strike with seconds left came far too late for a dramatic finale, with tempers flaring in a heated exchange involving Rudiger and several Porto players after the final whistle.

Chelsea enters Champions League semis for first time since 2014

IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders choke as Mumbai Indians continue dominance

Mumbai Indians on Tuesday continued their domination over Kolkata Knight Riders as they defeated the Eoin Morgan-led outfit by 10 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Despite posting just 152 runs on the board, MI successfully defended the target in what was a last-moment crumble by KKR. <o:p></o:p>

After being invited to bat first, MI were off to a shaky start as they lost opener Quinton de Kock for cheap. Rohit Sharma, too, looked out of his natural rhythm and struggled during his 43-run knock in the middle. While Suryakumar Yadav smashed a blistering half-century, 56 off 36 balls, others struggled against a well-oiled KKR unit which was used to its optimum by skipper Morgan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-ruled-out-of-ipl-2021-with-a-finger-injury-377361" hreflang="en">Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury</a>

Mumbai Indians ended up posting 152/10 after Krunal Pandya’s 15 off 9 at the death. For KKR, Andre Russell ended up with a five-wicket-haul to complete the best bowling figures by a KKR bowler against the Mumbai franchise.<o:p></o:p>

Chasing 153, KKR openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana were off to a brisk start as they stitched a 72-run opening stand. However, KKR lost three quick wickets in Gill (33), Rahul Tripathi (5) and skipper Morgan (7) as MI tightened the screws during the middle overs. Nitish Rana was dismissed by Rahul Chahar after a sublime 57-run knock.<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-names-his-dark-horses-to-win-ipl-2021-377350" hreflang="en">Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021</a>

Dinesh Karthik and Andre Russell struggled to connect the ball as Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult helped MI win the match in what can be described as a last-over thriller.<o:p></o:p>

MI registered their first win of IPL 2021 whereas KKR their first defeat of the T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p>

Mumbai Indians on Tuesday continued their domination over Kolkata Knight Riders as they defeated the Eoin Morgan-led outfit by 10 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Mumbai Indians on Tuesday continued their domination over Kolkata Knight Riders as they defeated the Eoin Morgan-led outfit by 10 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Despite posting just 152 runs on the board, MI successfully defended the target in what was a last-moment crumble by KKR. After being invited to bat first, MI were off to a shaky start as they lost opener Quinton de Kock for cheap. Rohit Sharma, too, looked out of his natural rhythm and struggled during his 43-run knock in the middle. While Suryakumar Yadav smashed a blistering half-century, 56 off 36 balls, others struggled against a well-oiled KKR unit which was used to its optimum by skipper Morgan. ALSO READ: Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury Mumbai Indians ended up posting 152/10 after Krunal Pandya’s 15 off 9 at the death. For KKR, Andre Russell ended up with a five-wicket-haul to complete the best bowling figures by a KKR bowler against the Mumbai franchise. Chasing 153, KKR openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana were off to a brisk start as they stitched a 72-run opening stand. However, KKR lost three quick wickets in Gill (33), Rahul Tripathi (5) and skipper Morgan (7) as MI tightened the screws during the middle overs. Nitish Rana was dismissed by Rahul Chahar after a sublime 57-run knock. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021 Dinesh Karthik and Andre Russell struggled to connect the ball as Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult helped MI win the match in what can be described as a last-over thriller. MI registered their first win of IPL 2021 whereas KKR their first defeat of the T20 tournament.

Mumbai Indians defeat Kolkata Knight Riders in last-over thriller in IPL 2021

Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury.<o:p></o:p>

Stokes sustained the injury during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings on Monday while taking a catch to get the wicket of Chris Gayle. After dropping a catch earlier in the match against PBKS, Stokes ran hard from long-on and dived forward in a bid to complete the catch to dismiss Gayle. However, he immediately felt discomfort in his left hand. <o:p></o:p>

However, the all-rounder continued to play the match and even came to open the ball but ended up with a three-ball duck. Rajasthan Royals fell five-run short in their 222-run chase.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-names-his-dark-horses-to-win-ipl-2021-377350" hreflang="en">Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021</a>

According to Independent, Stokes will remain in India for a week and talks have started between the ECB and Rajasthan Royals on managing the injury. Stokes will have an X-Ray in India on Thursday to know how much damage he has taken before the ECB take over the planning of the recovery.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Official statement by Rajasthan Royals on Ben Stokes:</h2>

Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ben Stokes injured a finger on his left hand while fielding during the team's match against Punjab Kings on 12 April 2021 in Mumbai. Subsequent investigations revealed that he sustained a broken finger, which will unfortunately rule him out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2021 season.

Everyone at Rajasthan Royals absolutely admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery. We are delighted that Ben would like to stay with the group to provide his valued support and inputs off the field. In the meantime, we will be reviewing potential replacement options for the remainder of the season.

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ECB would be scratching their heads over the fitness of ace all-rounder before a jam-packed nine months to follow. After playing New Zealand, England will host five Tests against India and will then proceed for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes. Stokes is key to England’s team across formats and the injury will come as a huge blow to the reigning 50-over world champions.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury.

Rajasthan Royals and England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in what has been termed as a finger injury. Stokes sustained the injury during Rajasthan Royals’ opening match against Punjab Kings on Monday while taking a catch to get the wicket of Chris Gayle. After dropping a catch earlier in the match against PBKS, Stokes ran hard from long-on and dived forward in a bid to complete the catch to dismiss Gayle. However, he immediately felt discomfort in his left hand. However, the all-rounder continued to play the match and even came to open the ball but ended up with a three-ball duck. Rajasthan Royals fell five-run short in their 222-run chase. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021 According to Independent, Stokes will remain in India for a week and talks have started between the ECB and Rajasthan Royals on managing the injury. Stokes will have an X-Ray in India on Thursday to know how much damage he has taken before the ECB take over the planning of the recovery. Official statement by Rajasthan Royals on Ben Stokes: Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ben Stokes injured a finger on his left hand while fielding during the team's match against Punjab Kings on 12 April 2021 in Mumbai. Subsequent investigations revealed that he sustained a broken finger, which will unfortunately rule him out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2021 season. Everyone at Rajasthan Royals absolutely admires Ben for being such a huge asset and a valuable member of the Royals family, both on and off the field, and wishes him a speedy recovery. We are delighted that Ben would like to stay with the group to provide his valued support and inputs off the field. In the meantime, we will be reviewing potential replacement options for the remainder of the season. × ECB would be scratching their heads over the fitness of ace all-rounder before a jam-packed nine months to follow. After playing New Zealand, England will host five Tests against India and will then proceed for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes. Stokes is key to England’s team across formats and the injury will come as a huge blow to the reigning 50-over world champions.

Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

Interestingly, Punjab are one of the few franchises that are yet to win the IPL trophy while failing to qualify for the playoffs 11 times in 13 attempts. However, Pietersen opined that the addition of Australian pacer Jhye Richardson and the option of having KL Rahul and Chris Gayle at the top make the Punjab franchise ‘dark horses’ to win their maiden IPL trophy.<o:p></o:p>

“Mumbai Indians will always be the favourites because of their pedigree,” Pietersen told Betway.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-explains-why-modern-cricketers-like-rishabh-pant-and-hardik-pandya-are-fearless-377341" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly explains why modern cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are fearless</a>

“They have won four of the last six IPLs and come in with some of the best players once again. I’m really interested to see how the Punjab Kings go, though. ‘Last year they lost that one Super Over at the start of the competition and it seemed to set them back, but their form at the end of the season was decent. <o:p></o:p>

“KL Rahul and Chris Gayle are very impressive options at the top and they’ve spent lots of money on the Aussie quick Jhye Richardson. I think they might be the dark horses this year.”<o:p></o:p>

The IPL is back in India for the 14th edition of the tournament after holding it in the United Arab Emirates last year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-gives-his-verdict-on-sanju-samsons-decision-to-refuse-morris-a-single-vs-pbks-377322" hreflang="en">Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS</a><o:p></o:p>

Pietersen added: “For the interest of the viewers and everything associated with the brand, it’s crucial for teams to be playing in their own country.<o:p></o:p>

“The BCCI did brilliantly to get the 2020 IPL on in UAE, but this is where the tournament belongs and it’s brilliant that it’s back. It is a shame that things aren’t quite back to normal yet, though. None of the teams will be playing in their home stadiums and, obviously, there won’t be any fans present at the matches.” <o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:
EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">Pietersen had earlier said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) would fail to win the IPL trophy yet again.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament. Interestingly, Punjab are one of the few franchises that are yet to win the IPL trophy while failing to qualify for the playoffs 11 times in 13 attempts. However, Pietersen opined that the addition of Australian pacer Jhye Richardson and the option of having KL Rahul and Chris Gayle at the top make the Punjab franchise ‘dark horses’ to win their maiden IPL trophy. “Mumbai Indians will always be the favourites because of their pedigree,” Pietersen told Betway. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly explains why modern cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are fearless “They have won four of the last six IPLs and come in with some of the best players once again. I’m really interested to see how the Punjab Kings go, though. ‘Last year they lost that one Super Over at the start of the competition and it seemed to set them back, but their form at the end of the season was decent. “KL Rahul and Chris Gayle are very impressive options at the top and they’ve spent lots of money on the Aussie quick Jhye Richardson. I think they might be the dark horses this year.” The IPL is back in India for the 14th edition of the tournament after holding it in the United Arab Emirates last year. ALSO READ: Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS Pietersen added: “For the interest of the viewers and everything associated with the brand, it’s crucial for teams to be playing in their own country. “The BCCI did brilliantly to get the 2020 IPL on in UAE, but this is where the tournament belongs and it’s brilliant that it’s back. It is a shame that things aren’t quite back to normal yet, though. None of the teams will be playing in their home stadiums and, obviously, there won’t be any fans present at the matches.” Pietersen had earlier said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) would fail to win the IPL trophy yet again.

Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has explained the reason behind India producing fearless cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya. The former Indian skipper opined that exposure to different sectors of life has helped the young generation to be “ready” both mentally and skill-wise.

“I think for the modern-day generation exposure has been enormous. It helps them to become fearless because they realise that things are available at their doorsteps. And if they make an effort and are desperate to succeed, they will be successful. So they’re fearless,” the India captain said during a conversation with Hero Vired Founder and CEO Akshay Munjal in a YouTube live show titled ‘You The Future’.

Ganguly went on to name Hardik and Pant while explaining how the current Indian cricket and the youngster have a fearless vibe and look ready at the international arena.

“You look at this current Indian cricket team. The likes of Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and some of the young fast bowlers who have come at this level, you just see that when they walk out into the International arena, they’re ready. “They’re not just ready skill-wise, but they’re ready mentally also which is very very important,” Ganguly said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-gives-his-verdict-on-sanju-samsons-decision-to-refuse-morris-a-single-vs-pbks-377322" hreflang="en">Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS</a>

When asked which thing he misses about international cricket since retiring from the game, Ganguly talked about the pressure to perform and the nerves ahead of match days.

“I miss that nervousness in the morning at 7 o’clock. When I used to wake up and get ready, wearing my track bottoms, shoes to play a Test match…I was under pressure to perform. I knew I cannot afford to fail as if I performed well, by evening 4.30, I’ll be a hero to all the people in the country,” he said recalling his playing days. “So I miss that challenge, miss that pressure, the expectation every morning. I think that is something which every individual should learn to embrace,” Ganguly said, adding that the bit of nervousness actually brings out the best in oneself.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-tour-england-with-larger-squad-after-postponement-of-a-tour-377312" hreflang="en">India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour</a>

“With everyday you learn, you adapt. It’s the same thing with administration, you adjust, you learn, you share, and most importantly, you require the ability to take decisions because decision-making is important. “It may not be right all the time. But if you have faith, and if you believe that you’re capable of doing things, the majority of your decisions will be right,” he signed off.

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has explained the reason behind India producing fearless cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has explained the reason behind India producing fearless cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya. The former Indian skipper opined that exposure to different sectors of life has helped the young generation to be “ready” both mentally and skill-wise. “I think for the modern-day generation exposure has been enormous. It helps them to become fearless because they realise that things are available at their doorsteps. And if they make an effort and are desperate to succeed, they will be successful. So they’re fearless,” the India captain said during a conversation with Hero Vired Founder and CEO Akshay Munjal in a YouTube live show titled ‘You The Future’. Ganguly went on to name Hardik and Pant while explaining how the current Indian cricket and the youngster have a fearless vibe and look ready at the international arena. “You look at this current Indian cricket team. The likes of Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and some of the young fast bowlers who have come at this level, you just see that when they walk out into the International arena, they’re ready. “They’re not just ready skill-wise, but they’re ready mentally also which is very very important,” Ganguly said. ALSO READ: Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS When asked which thing he misses about international cricket since retiring from the game, Ganguly talked about the pressure to perform and the nerves ahead of match days. “I miss that nervousness in the morning at 7 o’clock. When I used to wake up and get ready, wearing my track bottoms, shoes to play a Test match…I was under pressure to perform. I knew I cannot afford to fail as if I performed well, by evening 4.30, I’ll be a hero to all the people in the country,” he said recalling his playing days. “So I miss that challenge, miss that pressure, the expectation every morning. I think that is something which every individual should learn to embrace,” Ganguly said, adding that the bit of nervousness actually brings out the best in oneself. ALSO READ: India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour “With everyday you learn, you adapt. It’s the same thing with administration, you adjust, you learn, you share, and most importantly, you require the ability to take decisions because decision-making is important. “It may not be right all the time. But if you have faith, and if you believe that you’re capable of doing things, the majority of your decisions will be right,” he signed off.

Sourav Ganguly explains why modern cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are fearless

Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out.

Dortmund need to overturn last week's 2-1 first-leg defeat in Manchester when Reus equalised for the Germans before Phil Foden's 90th-minute winner for City.

Reus limped out of Saturday's 3-2 win at Stuttgart, after the attacking midfielder scored for the second match in a row, while centre-back Hummels did not come out for the second half after feeling unwell.

Dortmund coach Edin Terzic said a decision on the pair will be made after seeing how they react in training.

Terzic confirmed the second leg has come too soon for Sancho who is working his way back to fitness from a leg injury.

Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji stressed the importance of Reus to the German club's cause.

"It would be a big loss, he is our captain and played very well recently, scoring two goals," Akanji said Tuesday.

"He knows what it takes to make it through to the next round."

Terzic said Dortmund need "a mix of courage and patience" against City, who are bidding to reach the semi-finals after exiting in the quarters in each of the last four seasons.&nbsp;

Rumours persist that Dortmund could lose 20-year-old striker Erling Braut Haaland to a big-money offer this summer.

Dortmund have made it clear they do not want to sell Haaland, who reportedly has a release clause in his contract for 75 million euros ($89 million) from 2022.

"As a coach, it's my job to get the best out of him, not to put a price tag on him," Terzic replied when asked what it would cost to keep Haaland.

"I have to get the best out of the team and want to advance to the next round."

Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out.

Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out. Dortmund need to overturn last week's 2-1 first-leg defeat in Manchester when Reus equalised for the Germans before Phil Foden's 90th-minute winner for City. Reus limped out of Saturday's 3-2 win at Stuttgart, after the attacking midfielder scored for the second match in a row, while centre-back Hummels did not come out for the second half after feeling unwell. Dortmund coach Edin Terzic said a decision on the pair will be made after seeing how they react in training. Terzic confirmed the second leg has come too soon for Sancho who is working his way back to fitness from a leg injury. Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji stressed the importance of Reus to the German club's cause. "It would be a big loss, he is our captain and played very well recently, scoring two goals," Akanji said Tuesday. "He knows what it takes to make it through to the next round." Terzic said Dortmund need "a mix of courage and patience" against City, who are bidding to reach the semi-finals after exiting in the quarters in each of the last four seasons. Rumours persist that Dortmund could lose 20-year-old striker Erling Braut Haaland to a big-money offer this summer. Dortmund have made it clear they do not want to sell Haaland, who reportedly has a release clause in his contract for 75 million euros ($89 million) from 2022. "As a coach, it's my job to get the best out of him, not to put a price tag on him," Terzic replied when asked what it would cost to keep Haaland. "I have to get the best out of the team and want to advance to the next round."

Dortmund wait on Reus, Hummels with Sancho to miss City clash

Sanju Samson just fell short to take his team Rajasthan Royals over the winning line in what was his captaincy debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. In the high-scoring match, Rajasthan Royals lost by four runs while chasing a mammoth 222.<o:p></o:p>

Punjab Kings, batting first, posted 221/6 in 20 overs, courtesy fine knocks by KL Rahul (91) and Deepak Hooda (64). However, Samson took the game close while smashing IPL 2021’s first century and his highest score in the T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p>

But when Rajasthan Royals needed five off the last two deliveries, Samson denied Chris Morris a single and failed to clear the boundary line. While some have criticised Samson for refusing strike to Morris, others, including the likes of Kumar Sangakkara and Brian Lara, have backed him.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-tour-england-with-larger-squad-after-postponement-of-a-tour-377312" hreflang="en">India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour</a>&nbsp;

Former West Indies captain Lara, while weighing his opinion on the debate, said that the RR skipper took the right call while adding he would not single out Samson for denying a single to Morris.

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"I think it was the right decision. I think if anybody had to hit a boundary, it had to be Sanju Samson. If he had gone back for the 2nd run, there was an opportunity to get him run-out. I think he did the right thing. No doubts about it in my mind. Tremendous innings. I would not point fingers at him for not taking that single in the last over,” Lara told Star Sports.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Rajasthan Royals will next play Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium on April 15 (Thursday).<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Sanju Samson just fell short to take his team Rajasthan Royals over the winning line in what was his captaincy debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday.

Sanju Samson just fell short to take his team Rajasthan Royals over the winning line in what was his captaincy debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. In the high-scoring match, Rajasthan Royals lost by four runs while chasing a mammoth 222. Punjab Kings, batting first, posted 221/6 in 20 overs, courtesy fine knocks by KL Rahul (91) and Deepak Hooda (64). However, Samson took the game close while smashing IPL 2021’s first century and his highest score in the T20 tournament. But when Rajasthan Royals needed five off the last two deliveries, Samson denied Chris Morris a single and failed to clear the boundary line. While some have criticised Samson for refusing strike to Morris, others, including the likes of Kumar Sangakkara and Brian Lara, have backed him. ALSO READ: India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour Former West Indies captain Lara, while weighing his opinion on the debate, said that the RR skipper took the right call while adding he would not single out Samson for denying a single to Morris. × "I think it was the right decision. I think if anybody had to hit a boundary, it had to be Sanju Samson. If he had gone back for the 2nd run, there was an opportunity to get him run-out. I think he did the right thing. No doubts about it in my mind. Tremendous innings. I would not point fingers at him for not taking that single in the last over,” Lara told Star Sports. Rajasthan Royals will next play Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium on April 15 (Thursday).

Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS

India A’s tour of England in 2021 has been postponed,&nbsp;after an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Instead, India men’s senior team will tour with a larger squad to prepare for, and use during, the five-match Test series. <o:p></o:p>

India’s warm-up schedule will now comprise two intra-squad four-day matches, which will replace the two previously planned four-day fixtures between India Men and India A in July. Venues for those two intra-squad matches are to be confirmed.<o:p></o:p>

Following further discussions by ECB with the boards of New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, it has been agreed to cancel their scheduled men’s tour matches against First-Class County clubs. New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan’s men’s teams will instead play intra-squad matches to allow them suitable preparation for their international fixtures this summer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-women-announce-home-fixtures-for-2021-to-host-india-and-new-zealand-check-full-schedule-377303" hreflang="en">England Women announce home fixtures for 2021; to host India and New Zealand - Check full schedule</a>

ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “We are looking forward to staging a memorable summer of men’s and women’s international cricket when fans are set to return to venues.<o:p></o:p>

“Ensuring the safest possible environment for international cricket is our first priority and we are appreciative for the understanding of our fellow boards.

<o:p></o:p>

“We look forward to welcoming a men’s India A tour at a later date after this summer and when restrictions have eased. It will provide a valuable opportunity for players from both countries to experience high-quality cricket and to showcase the talent within our England Lions team and first-class counties.”

<o:p></o:p>

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India A’s tour of England in 2021 has been postponed, after an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

India A’s tour of England in 2021 has been postponed, after an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Instead, India men’s senior team will tour with a larger squad to prepare for, and use during, the five-match Test series. India’s warm-up schedule will now comprise two intra-squad four-day matches, which will replace the two previously planned four-day fixtures between India Men and India A in July. Venues for those two intra-squad matches are to be confirmed. Following further discussions by ECB with the boards of New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, it has been agreed to cancel their scheduled men’s tour matches against First-Class County clubs. New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan’s men’s teams will instead play intra-squad matches to allow them suitable preparation for their international fixtures this summer. ALSO READ: England Women announce home fixtures for 2021; to host India and New Zealand - Check full schedule ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “We are looking forward to staging a memorable summer of men’s and women’s international cricket when fans are set to return to venues. “Ensuring the safest possible environment for international cricket is our first priority and we are appreciative for the understanding of our fellow boards. “We look forward to welcoming a men’s India A tour at a later date after this summer and when restrictions have eased. It will provide a valuable opportunity for players from both countries to experience high-quality cricket and to showcase the talent within our England Lions team and first-class counties.” ×

India to tour England with larger squad after postponement of A tour

Rajasthan Royals' Director of Cricket Operations, Kumar Sangakkara talked about the match against Punjab Kings, Sanju Samson's century, Chetan Sakariya's dream debut and more.

Sanju Samson backed himself to finish the match vs PBKS: Kumar Sangakkara

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