Ever since Ravichandran Ashwin 'mankaded' Jos Buttler during the Rajasthan vs Punjab encounter on Monday, the skipper has been at the receiving end.&nbsp;

A massive controversy has been made of the run-out Ashiwn did that left the cricketing world divided. Even the ICC had cleared via a tweet what <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-here-is-iccs-reaction-on-ravichandran-ashwin-mankading-jos-buttler-205707">Ashwin did on the field&nbsp;saying "It's within the rules"</a>

Ashwin, who was slammed for disrespecting the game, also received support from various quarters, with one being from commentator Harsha Bhogle.&nbsp;

However, Harsha's supported to Ashwin did not go well with the Shane Warne as they went to the extent of accusing Harsha Bhogle of being biased and urged him to stick up "for your own".

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Nothing in the laws though about warning. Just as there is nothing in the laws about a wicket keeper warning a batsman for being out of the crease and not stumping him <a href="https://t.co/OqYypMiRIQ">https://t.co/OqYypMiRIQ</a>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1110255627266228224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Shane Warne slammed Ravichandran Ashwin with a series of tweets that seems it was also meant for Harsha Bhogle.

Buttler had given Rajasthan a flying start in their run-chase and looked unstoppable after scoring his seventh half-century in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

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Harsha you are missing the point completely &amp; I’m disappointed in you as you always push the spirit of the game - now you condone this behaviour ? Ashwin’s actions were simply disgraceful, and I hope the BCCI doesn’t condone this sort of behaviour in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/spiritofthegame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#spiritofthegame</a> <a href="https://t.co/BsIKDBN51X">https://t.co/BsIKDBN51X</a>
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1110257742328025100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Harsha, if that had of been an international player you would have nailed him ! Please do not be bias &amp; stick up for your own. Any player in the game that does that to anyone is an embarrassment to the game &amp; as captain it’s even more disgraceful ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/spiritofthegame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#spiritofthegame</a> ! <a href="https://t.co/4PqLL1MzBT">https://t.co/4PqLL1MzBT</a>
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1110262035605012481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Sorry - one more thing to add. If Ben Stokes did what Ashwin did to <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> it would be ok ? I’m just very disappointed in Ashwin as I thought he had integrity &amp; class. Kings lost a lot of supporters tonight. Especially young boys and girls ! I do hope the BCCI does something
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1110284190501736452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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However, spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-jos-buttler-mankaded-by-r-ashwin-twitter-slams-punjab-captain-205606">Ashwin put an end to Buttler's stay at the crease with one of the most controversial dismissals.&nbsp;</a>

The incident took place in the 13th over with Rajasthan needing 77 off 43 balls with nine wickets in hand.&nbsp;Ashwin paused while delivering the ball and took the bails off at the non-striker's end as Buttler stepped out of the crease.

The on-field umpire immediately signalled for the decision to be taken by the third umpire, who decided to give Buttler out.

The wicket was the changing point in the game, as Punjab went on to restrict Rajasthan to 170 for nine in the chase to register a 14-run win.

Ever since Ravichandran Ashwin 'mankaded' Jos Buttler during the Rajasthan vs Punjab encounter on Monday, the skipper has been at the receiving end. A massive controversy has been made of the run-out Ashiwn did that left the cricketing world divided.

Ever since Ravichandran Ashwin 'mankaded' Jos Buttler during the Rajasthan vs Punjab encounter on Monday, the skipper has been at the receiving end. A massive controversy has been made of the run-out Ashiwn did that left the cricketing world divided. Even the ICC had cleared via a tweet what Ashwin did on the field saying "It's within the rules" Ashwin, who was slammed for disrespecting the game, also received support from various quarters, with one being from commentator Harsha Bhogle. However, Harsha's supported to Ashwin did not go well with the Shane Warne as they went to the extent of accusing Harsha Bhogle of being biased and urged him to stick up "for your own". Nothing in the laws though about warning. Just as there is nothing in the laws about a wicket keeper warning a batsman for being out of the crease and not stumping him https://t.co/OqYypMiRIQ — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) March 25, 2019 × Shane Warne slammed Ravichandran Ashwin with a series of tweets that seems it was also meant for Harsha Bhogle. Buttler had given Rajasthan a flying start in their run-chase and looked unstoppable after scoring his seventh half-century in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Harsha you are missing the point completely & I’m disappointed in you as you always push the spirit of the game - now you condone this behaviour ? Ashwin’s actions were simply disgraceful, and I hope the BCCI doesn’t condone this sort of behaviour in the #IPL ! #spiritofthegame https://t.co/BsIKDBN51X — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) March 25, 2019 × Harsha, if that had of been an international player you would have nailed him ! Please do not be bias & stick up for your own. Any player in the game that does that to anyone is an embarrassment to the game & as captain it’s even more disgraceful ! #spiritofthegame ! https://t.co/4PqLL1MzBT — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) March 25, 2019 × Sorry - one more thing to add. If Ben Stokes did what Ashwin did to @imVkohli it would be ok ? I’m just very disappointed in Ashwin as I thought he had integrity & class. Kings lost a lot of supporters tonight. Especially young boys and girls ! I do hope the BCCI does something — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) March 25, 2019 × However, spinner Ashwin put an end to Buttler's stay at the crease with one of the most controversial dismissals. The incident took place in the 13th over with Rajasthan needing 77 off 43 balls with nine wickets in hand. Ashwin paused while delivering the ball and took the bails off at the non-striker's end as Buttler stepped out of the crease. The on-field umpire immediately signalled for the decision to be taken by the third umpire, who decided to give Buttler out. The wicket was the changing point in the game, as Punjab went on to restrict Rajasthan to 170 for nine in the chase to register a 14-run win.

Ashwin's mankad row: Shane Warne slams Harsha Bhogle for supporting Punjab captain, calls him 'biased'

Harbhajan Singh dismissed a trio of top batsmen in the Indian Premier League's opener on Saturday before underlining the importance of a finger spinner to India's cause at the upcoming Cricket World Cup.

Playing for champions Chennai, Harbhajan sent back Bangalore&nbsp;skipper Virat Kohli, former South Africa batting mainstay AB de Villiers and England all-rounder Moeen Ali on MA Chidambaram Stadium track that offered significant assistance to the slow bowlers.

Wrist spinners, once considered a luxury for their penchant to bleed runs in the chase for wickets, have taken the limited-overs formats by storm and banished their finger spin cousins to the fringes.

Five of the top 10 spots in the International Cricket Council's rankings for one-day international bowlers are occupied by wrist spinners -- Afghanistan's Rashid Khan, Imran Tahir of South Africa, Indian pair Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, and England's Adil Rashid.

Harbhajan, who played 103 tests and 236 ODIs for India, said there is a perception that wrist spinners have more chance of success as they possess more variations in their armoury.

"I have played all my cricket as a finger spinner and never complained about it. I did okay, not bad, quite happy with whatever I have achieved," said the 38-year-old, who has taken over 700 wickets in the three formats of international cricket.

"It's come down to the people and their belief whether finger spinners could do the job or not. I feel finger spinners have a role to play provided you back them.

"Of course, spinners also need to back themselves to spin the ball rather than not spinning them. New generation they don't look to spin the ball... As long as you are looking to spin the ball, you are there in the game."

On Saturday, the former India off-spinner's 3-20 spell at the start of the innings left Bangalore reeling and they were eventually bundled out for 70, leaving Mahendra Singh Dhoni's side to win the opening match of the 2019 IPL by seven wickets.

Tahir also picked up three wickets and India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja took two while also taking the catches to dismiss India skipper Kohli and De Villiers.

The success of Chahal and Kuldeep rendered Jadeja and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surplus to India's limited-overs requirements but the former has battled back into contention for the May 30 to July 14 World Cup in England and Wales.

"Someone like Ravindra Jadeja, he's always in the game," Harbhajan said of his left-arm spin colleague.

"I don't want to talk way too much about the World Cup but he could be a key member for Team India to win that.

"He's a factor, he bowls, he bats and he's a brilliant fielder. Finger spinners should be given the responsibility, they will deliver it."

Harbhajan Singh dismissed a trio of top batsmen in the Indian Premier League's opener on Saturday before underlining the importance of a finger spinner to India's cause at the upcoming Cricket World Cup.

Harbhajan Singh dismissed a trio of top batsmen in the Indian Premier League's opener on Saturday before underlining the importance of a finger spinner to India's cause at the upcoming Cricket World Cup. Playing for champions Chennai, Harbhajan sent back Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli, former South Africa batting mainstay AB de Villiers and England all-rounder Moeen Ali on MA Chidambaram Stadium track that offered significant assistance to the slow bowlers. Wrist spinners, once considered a luxury for their penchant to bleed runs in the chase for wickets, have taken the limited-overs formats by storm and banished their finger spin cousins to the fringes. Five of the top 10 spots in the International Cricket Council's rankings for one-day international bowlers are occupied by wrist spinners -- Afghanistan's Rashid Khan, Imran Tahir of South Africa, Indian pair Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, and England's Adil Rashid. Harbhajan, who played 103 tests and 236 ODIs for India, said there is a perception that wrist spinners have more chance of success as they possess more variations in their armoury. "I have played all my cricket as a finger spinner and never complained about it. I did okay, not bad, quite happy with whatever I have achieved," said the 38-year-old, who has taken over 700 wickets in the three formats of international cricket. "It's come down to the people and their belief whether finger spinners could do the job or not. I feel finger spinners have a role to play provided you back them. "Of course, spinners also need to back themselves to spin the ball rather than not spinning them. New generation they don't look to spin the ball... As long as you are looking to spin the ball, you are there in the game." On Saturday, the former India off-spinner's 3-20 spell at the start of the innings left Bangalore reeling and they were eventually bundled out for 70, leaving Mahendra Singh Dhoni's side to win the opening match of the 2019 IPL by seven wickets. Tahir also picked up three wickets and India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja took two while also taking the catches to dismiss India skipper Kohli and De Villiers. The success of Chahal and Kuldeep rendered Jadeja and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surplus to India's limited-overs requirements but the former has battled back into contention for the May 30 to July 14 World Cup in England and Wales. "Someone like Ravindra Jadeja, he's always in the game," Harbhajan said of his left-arm spin colleague. "I don't want to talk way too much about the World Cup but he could be a key member for Team India to win that. "He's a factor, he bowls, he bats and he's a brilliant fielder. Finger spinners should be given the responsibility, they will deliver it."

Give finger spinner a role at World Cup, says Harbhajan Singh

Despite possessing one of the strongest squad, Punjab have never won the Indian Premier League (IPL) title.&nbsp;However, the franchise have once managed to reach the IPL final in 2014, but were defeated by SRK co-owned Kolkata.&nbsp;

This year too, the side has some of the best players in the game, but whether they will live up to the fans expectations, is something to watch out for.&nbsp;

Last season, the Kings won six matches out of their first nine and lost their last five matches and finished at the No. 7 spot in the points table. The team have players like Mohammed Shami, Nicholas Pooran and Sam Curran.&nbsp;

So, as the 12 edition of the cash-rich tournament commences from March 23, here's a look at the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for Punjab.&nbsp;

Strengths

Like every year, the batting line-up of Punjab is the most destructive. It comprises of KL Rahul and Chris Gayle at the top, with Indian batsmen like Karun Nair, Mayank Agrawal, and Mandeep Singh filling the middle-order. David Miller, Moises Henriques or Sam Curran will be playing the role of a finisher.

If the players continue their current form, then the line-up would be a real cause of worry for other teams.

The side also have few dangerous spinners in their squad. Ravichandran Ashwin, who is also the captain, Mujeeb ur Rahman and Varun Chakravarty can spin a web around any lineup.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-185821">Also -&nbsp;IPL 2019: All teams and their squad list</a>

Moreover, Ashwin can be handy with the bat as well. He has the ability to bat according to the situation, and if needed can even finish the innings.

Weaknesses

The biggest weakness which surely won't go unnoticed is the lack of all-rounders. Apart from their captain Ashwin, the team lacks well-tested all-rounders.

Moreover, Ashwin has not played much cricket from last 4-5 months. There are high chances of him being rusty in the first few games.&nbsp;

Secondly, If Ashwin gets an injury or is unable to play any match, keeping in mind the World Cup, then the team management will find it difficult to fit someone in his shoes.

The team also has a problem of several overseas players. Gayle, Andrew Tye and Mujeeb are obviously going to make it to the team, but for the fourth slot, there are as many as four contenders.&nbsp;

Opportunities

The tournament is a must-grabbed opportunity for KL Rahul. He was once a permanent member of the Indian cricket team but owing to his poor form, he lost his place.

However, a good IPL season might see him taking part in the World Cup 2019, which is going to start on 30th May.

Just like Rahul, many other players like Ankit Rajpoot and Varun Chakravarthy will also see this IPL season as an opportunity to make an impact.

Threats

The biggest threat to Punjab is that they lack quality Indian seamers. The team consists of only three Indian seamers - Mohammed Shami, Ankit Rajpoot and Darshan Nalkande.

Moreover, Nalkande has never played in the IPL, os the two-month long games will either be Mohammed Shami or Ankit Rajpoot.

Another thing that adds to Punjab's agony is that Shami might be rested for some matches to manage his workload as he will be playing the World Cup.&nbsp;

Teams:

Retained:&nbsp;KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, Andrew Tye, Mayank Agarwal, Ankit Rajpoot, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Karun Nair, David Miller and Ravichandran Ashwin

Purchased:&nbsp;Moises Henriques (Rs 1 crore), Nicholas Pooran (Rs 4.2 crore), Varun Chakaravarthy (Rs 8.4 crore), Sam Curran (Rs 7.2 crore), Mohammad Shami (Rs 4.2 crore), Sarfaraz Khan (Rs 25 lakh), Hardus Viljoen (Rs 75 lakh), Arshdeep Singh (Rs 20 lakh), Darshan Nalkande (Rs 30 lakh), Prabhsimran Singh (Rs 4.8 crore), Agnivesh Ayachi (Rs 20 lakh), Harpreet Brar (Rs 20 lakh), Murugan Ashwin (Rs 20 lakh).

&nbsp;

Despite possessing one of the strongest squad, Punjab have never won the Indian Premier League (IPL) title. However, the franchise have once managed to reach the IPL final in 2014, but were defeated by SRK co-owned Kolkata.

Despite possessing one of the strongest squad, Punjab have never won the Indian Premier League (IPL) title. However, the franchise have once managed to reach the IPL final in 2014, but were defeated by SRK co-owned Kolkata. This year too, the side has some of the best players in the game, but whether they will live up to the fans expectations, is something to watch out for. Last season, the Kings won six matches out of their first nine and lost their last five matches and finished at the No. 7 spot in the points table. The team have players like Mohammed Shami, Nicholas Pooran and Sam Curran. So, as the 12 edition of the cash-rich tournament commences from March 23, here's a look at the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for Punjab. Strengths Like every year, the batting line-up of Punjab is the most destructive. It comprises of KL Rahul and Chris Gayle at the top, with Indian batsmen like Karun Nair, Mayank Agrawal, and Mandeep Singh filling the middle-order. David Miller, Moises Henriques or Sam Curran will be playing the role of a finisher. If the players continue their current form, then the line-up would be a real cause of worry for other teams. The side also have few dangerous spinners in their squad. Ravichandran Ashwin, who is also the captain, Mujeeb ur Rahman and Varun Chakravarty can spin a web around any lineup. Also - IPL 2019: All teams and their squad list Moreover, Ashwin can be handy with the bat as well. He has the ability to bat according to the situation, and if needed can even finish the innings. Weaknesses The biggest weakness which surely won't go unnoticed is the lack of all-rounders. Apart from their captain Ashwin, the team lacks well-tested all-rounders. Moreover, Ashwin has not played much cricket from last 4-5 months. There are high chances of him being rusty in the first few games. Secondly, If Ashwin gets an injury or is unable to play any match, keeping in mind the World Cup, then the team management will find it difficult to fit someone in his shoes. The team also has a problem of several overseas players. Gayle, Andrew Tye and Mujeeb are obviously going to make it to the team, but for the fourth slot, there are as many as four contenders. Opportunities The tournament is a must-grabbed opportunity for KL Rahul. He was once a permanent member of the Indian cricket team but owing to his poor form, he lost his place. However, a good IPL season might see him taking part in the World Cup 2019, which is going to start on 30th May. Just like Rahul, many other players like Ankit Rajpoot and Varun Chakravarthy will also see this IPL season as an opportunity to make an impact. Threats The biggest threat to Punjab is that they lack quality Indian seamers. The team consists of only three Indian seamers - Mohammed Shami, Ankit Rajpoot and Darshan Nalkande. Moreover, Nalkande has never played in the IPL, os the two-month long games will either be Mohammed Shami or Ankit Rajpoot. Another thing that adds to Punjab's agony is that Shami might be rested for some matches to manage his workload as he will be playing the World Cup. Teams: Retained: KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, Andrew Tye, Mayank Agarwal, Ankit Rajpoot, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Karun Nair, David Miller and Ravichandran Ashwin Purchased: Moises Henriques (Rs 1 crore), Nicholas Pooran (Rs 4.2 crore), Varun Chakaravarthy (Rs 8.4 crore), Sam Curran (Rs 7.2 crore), Mohammad Shami (Rs 4.2 crore), Sarfaraz Khan (Rs 25 lakh), Hardus Viljoen (Rs 75 lakh), Arshdeep Singh (Rs 20 lakh), Darshan Nalkande (Rs 30 lakh), Prabhsimran Singh (Rs 4.8 crore), Agnivesh Ayachi (Rs 20 lakh), Harpreet Brar (Rs 20 lakh), Murugan Ashwin (Rs 20 lakh).

IPL 2019: Squad analysis of Punjab

The 12 the edition&nbsp;of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to commence from this Saturday and the captains of the eight teams reached Chennai, to sign the pledge to play the game in fair spirit.

The eight teams competing in the IPL include Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Punjab, Hyderabad and Delhi.

According to media reports, a senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the pledge was being pre-recorded on the sidelines of the captains' meet.&nbsp;

"The captains are in Chennai today for the captains' meet as well as to sign the pledge so that all the leaders can go back to their respective teams before their opening games. They will head back to their respective franchises on Friday.&nbsp;

"With the opening ceremony being cancelled this year and the funds budgeted for the same to be handed to the families of the Pulwama martyrs, there will be a small screening wherein the pre-recorded signing of the pledge by the captains will be shown," the official added.

Meanwhile, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, captain of the defending champions CSK, is also expected to put the trophy back into play at that time.

The 12 the edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to commence from this Saturday and the captains of the eight teams reached Chennai, to sign the pledge to play the game in fair spirit.

The 12 the edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to commence from this Saturday and the captains of the eight teams reached Chennai, to sign the pledge to play the game in fair spirit. The eight teams competing in the IPL include Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Punjab, Hyderabad and Delhi. According to media reports, a senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the pledge was being pre-recorded on the sidelines of the captains' meet. "The captains are in Chennai today for the captains' meet as well as to sign the pledge so that all the leaders can go back to their respective teams before their opening games. They will head back to their respective franchises on Friday. "With the opening ceremony being cancelled this year and the funds budgeted for the same to be handed to the families of the Pulwama martyrs, there will be a small screening wherein the pre-recorded signing of the pledge by the captains will be shown," the official added. Meanwhile, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, captain of the defending champions CSK, is also expected to put the trophy back into play at that time.

IPL captains reach Chennai to sign 'fair play' pledge

What mistake did the players make, asked Mahendra Singh Dhoni, opening up on a phase of life made "most difficult and depressing" by the 2013 IPL fixing scandal.

The two-time World Cup winning captain broke his silence in a docudrama aptly titled 'Roar of the Lion', which focuses on the scandal that rocked Indian cricket and the ensuing fairy tale comeback by Chennai&nbsp;following a two-year suspension for its management's role in spot-fixing.

"2013 was the most difficult phase in my life, I was never depressed as much as I was then. The closest was 2007 World Cup when we lost in the group stages. But all said and done, 2007 happened because we did not play good cricket.

"But 2013, the angle was completely different. People are talking about match-fixing and spot-fixing. It was the most talked about thing in the country," Dhoni said in the first episode titled 'What did we do wrong'? broadcast on Hotstar.

Dhoni, who led the CSK to three IPL titles, said they knew a "harsh punishment" was on the cards.

"We did deserve the punishment but the only thing is the quantum of the punishment. Finally, we got to know that CSK will be banned for two years. There was a mixed feeling that time. Because you take a lot of things personally and, as a captain, question what did the team do wrong," Dhoni stated.

"Yes, there was mistake from our side (the franchise) but were the players involved in this? What mistake did we, as players, do to go through all of that?"

Recalling the torrid time when insinuations and allegations flew thick and fast, Dhoni said fixing a match requires the involvement of the majority of players.

"My name also came up in talks of fixing. They started showcasing in the media or social media as if the team was involved, I was involved. Is it possible (in cricket)? Yes it is possible, anyone can do spot-fixing. Umpires can do that, batsmen can, bowlers can... But match-fixing needs the involvement of the majority of the players."

For Dhoni, who has always preferred to go about his job quietly even when leading the Indian team, his silence may have been misunderstood.

"The problem when people think you are very strong, is that more often than not, nobody comes and asks: how are you doing. It was more of how I dealt with it.

"I did not want to talk about it to others, at the same time it was scratching me. I don't want anything to affect my cricket. For me cricket is the most important thing." In a trailer of the documentary recently, Dhoni had called match-fixing a bigger crime than murder.

"Whatever I am today, whatever I have achieved is because of cricket. So the biggest crime that I can commit personally is not murder. It's actually match fixing because it doesn't get restricted to me. If I'm involved in such a thing, it has a bigger impact.

"If people think a match is fixed because the outcome of a match is extraordinary, then people lose their faith in cricket. I don't think in my life I would deal with something that is tougher than this," he said.

Dhoni had not commented on the turmoil before this. In July 2015, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended from the cash-rich league for two years for betting activities by their key officials Gurunath Meiyappan and Raj Kundra during the 2013 season.

On his silence post the episode, Dhoni said, "What makes it even tougher is that, as the Indian captain you keep going to press conferences. There is a known line that is drawn that that was the IPL and this is the Indian cricket team.

"It's not easy to keep performing at the top level when these things are on your mind. Ten years down the line, no one is going to remember what was said in a press conference but how the team did."

While he agreed that then BCCI chief N Srinivasan's son-in-law Meiyappan was part of the team setup, Dhoni said, in what capacity, is open to debate.

"Initially, when Guru's name came up, (we knew) he was part of the team, all said and done. But in what capacity, that is debatable. Was he the owner, the team principal, the motivator... What exactly was he?

"I don't know if anyone from the franchise introduced Guru to us as the owner... We all knew him as the son-in-law."

The punishment was handed down by a Supreme Court- appointed three-member committee headed by former CJI R M Lodha, which held that the betting activities brought the game of cricket, BCCI and IPL into disrepute.

Lastly, Dhoni called his association with CSK is "like a match made on matrimonial site, an arranged marriage".&nbsp;

What mistake did the players make, asked Mahendra Singh Dhoni, opening up on a phase of life made "most difficult and depressing" by the 2013 IPL fixing scandal.

What mistake did the players make, asked Mahendra Singh Dhoni, opening up on a phase of life made "most difficult and depressing" by the 2013 IPL fixing scandal. The two-time World Cup winning captain broke his silence in a docudrama aptly titled 'Roar of the Lion', which focuses on the scandal that rocked Indian cricket and the ensuing fairy tale comeback by Chennai following a two-year suspension for its management's role in spot-fixing. "2013 was the most difficult phase in my life, I was never depressed as much as I was then. The closest was 2007 World Cup when we lost in the group stages. But all said and done, 2007 happened because we did not play good cricket. "But 2013, the angle was completely different. People are talking about match-fixing and spot-fixing. It was the most talked about thing in the country," Dhoni said in the first episode titled 'What did we do wrong'? broadcast on Hotstar. Dhoni, who led the CSK to three IPL titles, said they knew a "harsh punishment" was on the cards. "We did deserve the punishment but the only thing is the quantum of the punishment. Finally, we got to know that CSK will be banned for two years. There was a mixed feeling that time. Because you take a lot of things personally and, as a captain, question what did the team do wrong," Dhoni stated. "Yes, there was mistake from our side (the franchise) but were the players involved in this? What mistake did we, as players, do to go through all of that?" Recalling the torrid time when insinuations and allegations flew thick and fast, Dhoni said fixing a match requires the involvement of the majority of players. "My name also came up in talks of fixing. They started showcasing in the media or social media as if the team was involved, I was involved. Is it possible (in cricket)? Yes it is possible, anyone can do spot-fixing. Umpires can do that, batsmen can, bowlers can... But match-fixing needs the involvement of the majority of the players." For Dhoni, who has always preferred to go about his job quietly even when leading the Indian team, his silence may have been misunderstood. "The problem when people think you are very strong, is that more often than not, nobody comes and asks: how are you doing. It was more of how I dealt with it. "I did not want to talk about it to others, at the same time it was scratching me. I don't want anything to affect my cricket. For me cricket is the most important thing." In a trailer of the documentary recently, Dhoni had called match-fixing a bigger crime than murder. "Whatever I am today, whatever I have achieved is because of cricket. So the biggest crime that I can commit personally is not murder. It's actually match fixing because it doesn't get restricted to me. If I'm involved in such a thing, it has a bigger impact. "If people think a match is fixed because the outcome of a match is extraordinary, then people lose their faith in cricket. I don't think in my life I would deal with something that is tougher than this," he said. Dhoni had not commented on the turmoil before this. In July 2015, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended from the cash-rich league for two years for betting activities by their key officials Gurunath Meiyappan and Raj Kundra during the 2013 season. On his silence post the episode, Dhoni said, "What makes it even tougher is that, as the Indian captain you keep going to press conferences. There is a known line that is drawn that that was the IPL and this is the Indian cricket team. "It's not easy to keep performing at the top level when these things are on your mind. Ten years down the line, no one is going to remember what was said in a press conference but how the team did." While he agreed that then BCCI chief N Srinivasan's son-in-law Meiyappan was part of the team setup, Dhoni said, in what capacity, is open to debate. "Initially, when Guru's name came up, (we knew) he was part of the team, all said and done. But in what capacity, that is debatable. Was he the owner, the team principal, the motivator... What exactly was he? "I don't know if anyone from the franchise introduced Guru to us as the owner... We all knew him as the son-in-law." The punishment was handed down by a Supreme Court- appointed three-member committee headed by former CJI R M Lodha, which held that the betting activities brought the game of cricket, BCCI and IPL into disrepute. Lastly, Dhoni called his association with CSK is "like a match made on matrimonial site, an arranged marriage".

Dhoni opens up on 2013 IPL fixing scandal, asks what did players do to go through all of that

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav Wednesday said he will have to manage his bowling to remain fit during the two-month long Indian Premier League, amid concerns around players' workload ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

"My workload, I think, is about managing my bowling. In Chennai Super Kings, I don't think I need to bowl as much as I do in the Indian team," said Jadhav, who is expected to share the responsibility of the fifth bowler during the World Cup starting May 30.

"We all are professional cricketers and we know how to manage our bodies. How you recover after every IPL game really matters during this two-month period. You can't just improve in one training session."

Jadhav said it was up to individuals to handle the situation and the players need to work in tandem with the Indian team's trainers and physios as well as that of IPL franchises.

"Obviously, its up to the individuals and we are smart enough to handle the situation. We will work in tandem with trainers and physios of Indian team as well as the franchisees," he said.

"We have got some notes (from the Indian trainers and physios) and we have to follow them."

Jadhav, who was ruled out of last year's IPL after the opening match owing to a hamstring injury, said it is every cricketer's dream to play in a World Cup, but for now his focus will be on giving his best for the Chennai outfit.&nbsp;

"Basically every cricketer who plays for India it's a dream for him to feature in a World Cup team, and I'm no different to that," Jadhav said.&nbsp;

"As of now, my focus in the next two months will be on CSK. I hope to win it this year and I'm looking forward to all those two months with a fit body and contribute to the best of my abilities. 
"I love the environment and the culture here. Last year also I was here for only a week or 10 days but I watched all the games when I was in Melbourne for surgery. But I missed so many people and the whole journey when we lifted the Cup last year," he added.

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav Wednesday said he will have to manage his bowling to remain fit during the two-month long Indian Premier League, amid concerns around players' workload ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav Wednesday said he will have to manage his bowling to remain fit during the two-month long Indian Premier League, amid concerns around players' workload ahead of the upcoming World Cup. "My workload, I think, is about managing my bowling. In Chennai Super Kings, I don't think I need to bowl as much as I do in the Indian team," said Jadhav, who is expected to share the responsibility of the fifth bowler during the World Cup starting May 30. "We all are professional cricketers and we know how to manage our bodies. How you recover after every IPL game really matters during this two-month period. You can't just improve in one training session." Jadhav said it was up to individuals to handle the situation and the players need to work in tandem with the Indian team's trainers and physios as well as that of IPL franchises. "Obviously, its up to the individuals and we are smart enough to handle the situation. We will work in tandem with trainers and physios of Indian team as well as the franchisees," he said. "We have got some notes (from the Indian trainers and physios) and we have to follow them." Jadhav, who was ruled out of last year's IPL after the opening match owing to a hamstring injury, said it is every cricketer's dream to play in a World Cup, but for now his focus will be on giving his best for the Chennai outfit. "Basically every cricketer who plays for India it's a dream for him to feature in a World Cup team, and I'm no different to that," Jadhav said. "As of now, my focus in the next two months will be on CSK. I hope to win it this year and I'm looking forward to all those two months with a fit body and contribute to the best of my abilities. "I love the environment and the culture here. Last year also I was here for only a week or 10 days but I watched all the games when I was in Melbourne for surgery. But I missed so many people and the whole journey when we lifted the Cup last year," he added.

IPL 2019: My workload is all about managing my bowling, says Kedar Jadhav

Young Kerala pacer Basil Thampi feels the IPL has given him the confidence to bowl at just about any batsman in the world as the tournament is more challenging for the bowlers.

The 25-year-old uncapped pacer will be turning up for the Sunrisers Hyderabad this year after two seasons with the now dissolved Gujarat Lions.&nbsp;

"It is very challenging to bowl in the IPL because it is a batsmen's game and we all know that. We should have confidence to bowl, that is the key. So, in the last three years I got the confidence to bowl at everyone. Whenever I get the ball, I want to deliver my best," Thampi told PTI in an interaction.

The IPL season 12 commences on March 23.

Thampi is part of an impressive bowling line-up that also includes experienced swing bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sandeep Sharma, Siddharth Kaul and left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed.

"This coming season I want to do well. The most important thing is if I get a chance, I want to do well for the team. From the last experience, I learnt a lot for this team," Thampi said.

The youngster said he will mostly stick to his stock delivery, which is the yorker.

"Because I have good yorkers, I guess, and I want to stick to it and, with that, some variations," the right-arm medium pacer said.

According to Thampi, the most important thing which he learnt from the senior pacers was how to prepare his body.

Thampi said he shares a good rapport with his co-pacers.

"We know each other. Khaleel, Sandeep and Siddharth Kaul, we have played together in India A matches. We are (always) sharing our thoughts on and off the field," he said.&nbsp;

Sunrisers will begin their IPL campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders on March 24 at the Eden Gardens.

Young Kerala pacer Basil Thampi feels the IPL has given him the confidence to bowl at just about any batsman in the world as the tournament is more challenging for the bowlers.

Young Kerala pacer Basil Thampi feels the IPL has given him the confidence to bowl at just about any batsman in the world as the tournament is more challenging for the bowlers. The 25-year-old uncapped pacer will be turning up for the Sunrisers Hyderabad this year after two seasons with the now dissolved Gujarat Lions. "It is very challenging to bowl in the IPL because it is a batsmen's game and we all know that. We should have confidence to bowl, that is the key. So, in the last three years I got the confidence to bowl at everyone. Whenever I get the ball, I want to deliver my best," Thampi told PTI in an interaction. The IPL season 12 commences on March 23. Thampi is part of an impressive bowling line-up that also includes experienced swing bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sandeep Sharma, Siddharth Kaul and left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed. "This coming season I want to do well. The most important thing is if I get a chance, I want to do well for the team. From the last experience, I learnt a lot for this team," Thampi said. The youngster said he will mostly stick to his stock delivery, which is the yorker. "Because I have good yorkers, I guess, and I want to stick to it and, with that, some variations," the right-arm medium pacer said. According to Thampi, the most important thing which he learnt from the senior pacers was how to prepare his body. Thampi said he shares a good rapport with his co-pacers. "We know each other. Khaleel, Sandeep and Siddharth Kaul, we have played together in India A matches. We are (always) sharing our thoughts on and off the field," he said. Sunrisers will begin their IPL campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders on March 24 at the Eden Gardens.

Very challenging to bowl in Indian Premier League: Sunrisers Hyderabad's Basil Thampi

While top names like Yuvraj Singh, Brendon McCullum and Martin Guptill found no takers in the first round of the 2019 IPL auction, Varun Chakravarthy, a mystery spinner from Tamil Nadu grabbed a deal of Rs 8.4 crore with Preity Zinta co-owned Punjab.

Started playing cricket as a wicketkeeper-batsman at the age of 13, Varun proved his calibre after he got opportunities to bowl in the Chennai nets and even to SRK co-owned Kolkata players.

His stint at the nets helped him star in the 2018 TNPL, where he spun Siechem Madurai Panthers to their maiden title.

He also made a splash in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, too, ending as the top wicket-taker in the group stage, with 22 wickets in nine matches at an economy rate of 4.23.

Another top buy in the IPL auction so far is Shivam Dube.&nbsp;

Dube, who was lately in news was hitting five sixes in an over in a Ranji Trophy match, was picked up by Bangalore for a whopping Rs 5 crore at the on Tuesday evening.

A medium pace all-rounder from Mumbai, Dube is a right-arm bowler and a left-handed batsman. He rose to prominence in the last one year with some big hitting in the Mumbai T20 league, followed by his consistent performances in the ongoing domestic season.&nbsp;

As a batsman, Shivam idolises Jacques Kallis and Brian Lara. He became the costliest uncapped Indian fast bowler.

His prowess in Ranji trophy impressed Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar, who opined that he will be the radar of every IPL team

While top names like Yuvraj Singh, Brendon McCullum and Martin Guptill found no takers in the first round of the 2019 IPL auction, Varun Chakravarthy, a mystery spinner from Tamil Nadu grabbed a deal of Rs 8.

While top names like Yuvraj Singh, Brendon McCullum and Martin Guptill found no takers in the first round of the 2019 IPL auction, Varun Chakravarthy, a mystery spinner from Tamil Nadu grabbed a deal of Rs 8.4 crore with Preity Zinta co-owned Punjab. Started playing cricket as a wicketkeeper-batsman at the age of 13, Varun proved his calibre after he got opportunities to bowl in the Chennai nets and even to SRK co-owned Kolkata players. His stint at the nets helped him star in the 2018 TNPL, where he spun Siechem Madurai Panthers to their maiden title. He also made a splash in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, too, ending as the top wicket-taker in the group stage, with 22 wickets in nine matches at an economy rate of 4.23. Another top buy in the IPL auction so far is Shivam Dube. Dube, who was lately in news was hitting five sixes in an over in a Ranji Trophy match, was picked up by Bangalore for a whopping Rs 5 crore at the on Tuesday evening. A medium pace all-rounder from Mumbai, Dube is a right-arm bowler and a left-handed batsman. He rose to prominence in the last one year with some big hitting in the Mumbai T20 league, followed by his consistent performances in the ongoing domestic season. As a batsman, Shivam idolises Jacques Kallis and Brian Lara. He became the costliest uncapped Indian fast bowler. His prowess in Ranji trophy impressed Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar, who opined that he will be the radar of every IPL team

2019 IPL auction: All you need to know about Varun Chakravarthy and Shivam Dube

Wicketkeeper-batsman from West Indies Nicholas Pooran on Tuesday emerged as one of the biggest surprise purchase in the IPL 2019 auction.&nbsp;

The Trinidadian cricketer was bought by Preity Zinta co-owned Punjab at a whopping amount of Rs 4.2 crore.

However, the surprising fact about Pooran is that he has never played an IPL and would appear for the first time in the cash-rich tournament. &nbsp;

The 23-year-old cricketer first came into limelight when he stuck a 24-ball-54 for Trinidad and Tobago Steel against the Guyana Amazon Warriors.&nbsp;

He was also part of the Windies side that played Under-19 World Cup in the UAE. Pooran&nbsp;came into the crease when Windies were struggling at 70-8, and took his side to 208 by the end of the innings, by scoring a stunning 143.&nbsp;

Pooran, who made his T20 International debut in 2016 against Pakistan, appeared in six T20 Internationals and scored 105 runs at an average of 26.25.&nbsp;

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Nicholas Pooran now a part of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaSquad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaSquad</a>! 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KXIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KXIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/7rPSI7mwnv">pic.twitter.com/7rPSI7mwnv</a>
— Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip/status/1074983027132948480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Overall in T20s, he has scored 1272 runs in 79 matches at an average of 19.87.

Wicketkeeper-batsman from West Indies Nicholas Pooran on Tuesday emerged as one of the biggest surprise purchase in the IPL 2019 auction. The Trinidadian cricketer was bought by Preity Zinta co-owned Punjab at a whopping amount of Rs 4.

Wicketkeeper-batsman from West Indies Nicholas Pooran on Tuesday emerged as one of the biggest surprise purchase in the IPL 2019 auction. The Trinidadian cricketer was bought by Preity Zinta co-owned Punjab at a whopping amount of Rs 4.2 crore. However, the surprising fact about Pooran is that he has never played an IPL and would appear for the first time in the cash-rich tournament. The 23-year-old cricketer first came into limelight when he stuck a 24-ball-54 for Trinidad and Tobago Steel against the Guyana Amazon Warriors. He was also part of the Windies side that played Under-19 World Cup in the UAE. Pooran came into the crease when Windies were struggling at 70-8, and took his side to 208 by the end of the innings, by scoring a stunning 143. Pooran, who made his T20 International debut in 2016 against Pakistan, appeared in six T20 Internationals and scored 105 runs at an average of 26.25. Nicholas Pooran now a part of #SaddaSquad! 🙌#KXIP #LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/7rPSI7mwnv — Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) December 18, 2018 × Overall in T20s, he has scored 1272 runs in 79 matches at an average of 19.87.

Nicholas Pooran: The Windies player who bagged Rs 4.2 crore at 2019 IPL auction

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