Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum has been appointed head coach of England`s test team, the country`s cricket board (ECB) said on Thursday. McCullum replaced Chris Silverwood who left the role in February after England were thrashed 4-0 in the Ashes in Australia, with Paul Collingwood stepping in as a caretaker coach.

McCullum, 40, is currently in charge of Indian Premier League side Kolkata Knight Riders but the ECB said he will be in place to start his role when New Zealand visit for a three-test series starting at Lord`s on June 2. "We are delighted to confirm Brendon as England men`s test head coach. It has been a real privilege to get to know him and understand his views and vision for the game," ECB managing director Rob Key said in a statement.

"He has a recent history of changing cricket culture and environments for the better, and I believe he is the person to do that for England`s red-ball cricket. "We were incredibly fortunate to have a seriously strong list of quality candidates for the post, with Brendon demonstrating he was our number one choice." 
Former South Africa and India head coach Gary Kirsten had been linked with the role and Collingwood was also considered.

McCullum played the last of his 101 tests at Christchurch in 2016 against Australia, where he hit the fastest ever century in the format (54 balls). He finished his career with 6,453 runs including 12 hundreds and 31 half-centuries.

He will be tasked with working alongside newly-appointed test captain Ben Stokes to get England out of a slump after the team won only one of their last 17 matches, with Key describing the pairing as a "formidable coach and captain partnership".

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"In taking this role on, I am acutely aware of the significant challenges the team faces at present, and I strongly believe in my ability to help the team emerge as a stronger force once we`ve confronted them head-on," McCullum said.

"Ben Stokes is the perfect character to inspire change around him, and I look forward to working closely with him to build a successful unit around us."

Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum has been appointed head coach of England`s test team, the country`s cricket board (ECB) said on Thursday. McCullum replaced Chris Silverwood who left the role in February after England were thrashed 4-0 in the Ashes in Australia, with Paul Collingwood stepping in as a caretaker coach.

Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum has been appointed head coach of England`s test team, the country`s cricket board (ECB) said on Thursday. McCullum replaced Chris Silverwood who left the role in February after England were thrashed 4-0 in the Ashes in Australia, with Paul Collingwood stepping in as a caretaker coach. McCullum, 40, is currently in charge of Indian Premier League side Kolkata Knight Riders but the ECB said he will be in place to start his role when New Zealand visit for a three-test series starting at Lord`s on June 2. "We are delighted to confirm Brendon as England men`s test head coach. It has been a real privilege to get to know him and understand his views and vision for the game," ECB managing director Rob Key said in a statement. "He has a recent history of changing cricket culture and environments for the better, and I believe he is the person to do that for England`s red-ball cricket. "We were incredibly fortunate to have a seriously strong list of quality candidates for the post, with Brendon demonstrating he was our number one choice." Former South Africa and India head coach Gary Kirsten had been linked with the role and Collingwood was also considered. McCullum played the last of his 101 tests at Christchurch in 2016 against Australia, where he hit the fastest ever century in the format (54 balls). He finished his career with 6,453 runs including 12 hundreds and 31 half-centuries. He will be tasked with working alongside newly-appointed test captain Ben Stokes to get England out of a slump after the team won only one of their last 17 matches, with Key describing the pairing as a "formidable coach and captain partnership". ALSO READ | Former England batter Graham Thorpe admitted to hospital after falling 'seriously ill' "In taking this role on, I am acutely aware of the significant challenges the team faces at present, and I strongly believe in my ability to help the team emerge as a stronger force once we`ve confronted them head-on," McCullum said. "Ben Stokes is the perfect character to inspire change around him, and I look forward to working closely with him to build a successful unit around us."

New Zealand's former captain Brendon McCullum named coach of England Test team

Brendon McCullum has reportedly informed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) that he will be stepping down as the head coach of the franchise following the conclusion of the ongoing season. McCullum has emerged as one of the favourites to take over as the new head coach of the England Test team.

As per BBC and reports in the British media, McCullum is likely to replace Chris Silverwood as the new Test coach of England and an official announcement is expected this week. Silverwood was fired by England earlier this year after their humiliating 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Australia in the Ashes 2021-22.

As per a report in the Indian Express, McCullum recently informed about his plans during a team meeting and revealed he will be taking over as coach of the England national team.&nbsp;

“He informed us that he won’t be part of KKR going ahead as he will be taking up a job as England cricket team coach. He informed us during a team meeting a few days ago,” a KKR insider was quoted as saying by Indian Express.

McCullum, who retired from cricket all forms of cricket in 2019, had taken over as the head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders in August 2019. He was also appointed as the head coach of Caribbean Premier League franchise Trinbago Knight Riders in the same year.

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While he has coached teams in franchise cricket, McCullum is yet to coach an international team and will begin his coaching journey in international cricket with England. Under McCullum, KKR have failed to win the IPL title. They came close last season by reaching the final in IPL 2020 but lost against CSK to miss out on the trophy.

In the ongoing IPL 2022, KKR has struggled for consistency but have managed to remain alive in the race for playoffs with five wins in 12 matches in the competition so far. KKR have an outside chance of making it to the playoffs this season if they manage to win their remaining two games by a big margin.

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McCullum, who captained New Zealand in all three formats and is regarded as one of the greatest Kiwi captains of all time, will have his first Test assignment as England coach against the Black Caps. England are scheduled to host New Zealand in a three-match Test series at home which will be the first big challenge for new captain Ben Stokes and coach McCullum.

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Brendon McCullum has reportedly informed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) that he will be stepping down as the head coach of the franchise following the conclusion of the ongoing season.

Brendon McCullum has reportedly informed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) that he will be stepping down as the head coach of the franchise following the conclusion of the ongoing season. McCullum has emerged as one of the favourites to take over as the new head coach of the England Test team. As per BBC and reports in the British media, McCullum is likely to replace Chris Silverwood as the new Test coach of England and an official announcement is expected this week. Silverwood was fired by England earlier this year after their humiliating 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Australia in the Ashes 2021-22. As per a report in the Indian Express, McCullum recently informed about his plans during a team meeting and revealed he will be taking over as coach of the England national team. “He informed us that he won’t be part of KKR going ahead as he will be taking up a job as England cricket team coach. He informed us during a team meeting a few days ago,” a KKR insider was quoted as saying by Indian Express. McCullum, who retired from cricket all forms of cricket in 2019, had taken over as the head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders in August 2019. He was also appointed as the head coach of Caribbean Premier League franchise Trinbago Knight Riders in the same year. Also Read: 'He is a loving guy': Pakistan star Rizwan lauds Cheteshwar Pujara after playing together for Sussex While he has coached teams in franchise cricket, McCullum is yet to coach an international team and will begin his coaching journey in international cricket with England. Under McCullum, KKR have failed to win the IPL title. They came close last season by reaching the final in IPL 2020 but lost against CSK to miss out on the trophy. In the ongoing IPL 2022, KKR has struggled for consistency but have managed to remain alive in the race for playoffs with five wins in 12 matches in the competition so far. KKR have an outside chance of making it to the playoffs this season if they manage to win their remaining two games by a big margin. Also Read: 'We gave up & were weak': Gambhir delivers strong speech in dressing room after LSG lose to GT McCullum, who captained New Zealand in all three formats and is regarded as one of the greatest Kiwi captains of all time, will have his first Test assignment as England coach against the Black Caps. England are scheduled to host New Zealand in a three-match Test series at home which will be the first big challenge for new captain Ben Stokes and coach McCullum.

Brendon McCullum informs KKR about his exit, set to take over as England's new Test coach - Report

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) met one-time winners and in-form Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 47 of IPL 2022 edition on Monday evening (May 02), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Being winless in their last five encounters, the Shreyas Iyer-led KKR unit made a few changes and chased down a moderate 153 by seven wickets to claim two important points.

Opting to bowl first, KKR restricted RR to 152-5 and later chase down the score with cautious knocks from skipper Iyer, Nitish Rana and Rinku Singh's 23-ball 42 not out. Despite KKR returning to winning ways, former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja isn't impressed with Kolkata's tactics and slammed the Brendon McCullum-led team management for their selection process after dropping Venkatesh Iyer.

"It's like while trying to save your life, you are ready to (sacrifice) Indian cricket because you come from different nations here for two months you run the team the way you want and then leave according to the contract."&nbsp;Jadeja made a big remark on&nbsp;Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrote-50-not-out-on-left-hand-rinku-singh-reveals-he-had-an-intuition-of-winning-kkr-the-match-vs-rr-476105">'Wrote 50 not out on left hand' - Rinku Singh reveals he had an intuition of winning KKR the match vs RR</a>

<section>Talking about Venky Iyer, he has been groomed as an all-rounder and finisher for Team India in recent times, in Hardik Pandya's absence. However, he has not been able to replicate his heroics from the last year's edition so far. The retained player only has&nbsp;132 runs in 9 matches at a below-par average of 16.50. In addition, he has bowled only three overs in the 15th season.</section>

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) met one-time winners and in-form Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 47 of IPL 2022 edition on Monday evening (May 02), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) met one-time winners and in-form Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 47 of IPL 2022 edition on Monday evening (May 02), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Being winless in their last five encounters, the Shreyas Iyer-led KKR unit made a few changes and chased down a moderate 153 by seven wickets to claim two important points. Opting to bowl first, KKR restricted RR to 152-5 and later chase down the score with cautious knocks from skipper Iyer, Nitish Rana and Rinku Singh's 23-ball 42 not out. Despite KKR returning to winning ways, former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja isn't impressed with Kolkata's tactics and slammed the Brendon McCullum-led team management for their selection process after dropping Venkatesh Iyer. "It's like while trying to save your life, you are ready to (sacrifice) Indian cricket because you come from different nations here for two months you run the team the way you want and then leave according to the contract." Jadeja made a big remark on Cricbuzz. ALSO READ | 'Wrote 50 not out on left hand' - Rinku Singh reveals he had an intuition of winning KKR the match vs RR Talking about Venky Iyer, he has been groomed as an all-rounder and finisher for Team India in recent times, in Hardik Pandya's absence. However, he has not been able to replicate his heroics from the last year's edition so far. The retained player only has 132 runs in 9 matches at a below-par average of 16.50. In addition, he has bowled only three overs in the 15th season.

'You are ready to sacrifice Indian cricket' - Ajay Jadeja slams KKR's tactics after Venkatesh Iyer's ouster

Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 7 runs in a thrilling encounter in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Monday. Riding on Jos Buttler's exceptional century, RR went on to post a huge total of 217 runs on the board at the Brabourne Stadium before the bowlers helped them bundle out KKR on 210 runs to secure a close win.

While Buttler was the star with the bat for RR, Yuzvendr Chahal bowled a sensational 17th over which turned the game on its head. Chahal claimed his maiden IPL hat-trick and picked four wickets in the over to run through the KKR batting line-up and set up a nail-biting win for the Royals.

KKR decided to send Sunil Narine to open the batting along with Aaron Finch in the run-chase. However, the move didn't work in their favour as Narine was run out on the very first without facing a delivery. Despite the poor start, KKR looked on track for a win courtesy of skipper Shreyas Iyer's brilliant 85 off 51 balls and Finch's stupendous knock of 28-ball 58.

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However, they ended up falling short at the end towards the end after Chahal's sensational 4-wicket over. KKR head coach Brendon McCullum was asked about the move to not let Venkatesh Iyer open the batting with Finch and send Narine at the top. Explaining the move, McCullum said Iyer's ability to tackle spin well was one of the reasons behind the change in his batting position.

“We thought that Narine and Finch at the top was a very good opportunity. We knew that the wicket was going to be good; it was going to be a high-scoring game. We know how Narine plays. Unfortunately, he didn’t face a ball tonight. It can happen sometimes, but Finch and Shreyas Iyer were absolutely brilliant at the top of the order," McCullum said after the game.

“We wanted to give Venkatesh Iyer an option through the middle against spin in particular - against (Ravichandran) Ashwin and Chahal. He’s a very good player of spin and, with one short side, we wanted to try and maximize that. So, that was the thinking behind it," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuzvendra-chahal-bags-his-maiden-ipl-hat-trick-takes-4-wickets-in-a-single-over-against-kkr-471983">Yuzvendra Chahal bags his maiden IPL hat-trick, takes 4 wickets in a single over against KKR</a>

Iyer, who had opened in the first six matches for KKR this season, came out to bat at no.6 against Rajasthan Royals on Monday. However, the move backfired as he was dismissed on 6 off 7 balls and failed to make an impact as KKR faltered in the run-chase to suffer their fourth defeat of the season.

&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 7 runs in a thrilling encounter in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Monday. Riding on Jos Buttler's exceptional century, RR went on to post a huge total of 217 runs on the board at the Brabourne Stadium before the bowlers helped them bundle out KKR on 210 runs to secure a close win.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 7 runs in a thrilling encounter in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Monday. Riding on Jos Buttler's exceptional century, RR went on to post a huge total of 217 runs on the board at the Brabourne Stadium before the bowlers helped them bundle out KKR on 210 runs to secure a close win. While Buttler was the star with the bat for RR, Yuzvendr Chahal bowled a sensational 17th over which turned the game on its head. Chahal claimed his maiden IPL hat-trick and picked four wickets in the over to run through the KKR batting line-up and set up a nail-biting win for the Royals. KKR decided to send Sunil Narine to open the batting along with Aaron Finch in the run-chase. However, the move didn't work in their favour as Narine was run out on the very first without facing a delivery. Despite the poor start, KKR looked on track for a win courtesy of skipper Shreyas Iyer's brilliant 85 off 51 balls and Finch's stupendous knock of 28-ball 58. Also Read: Watch: Shreyas Iyer loses cool at Venkatesh Iyer after latter denied a double to KKR skipper vs RR However, they ended up falling short at the end towards the end after Chahal's sensational 4-wicket over. KKR head coach Brendon McCullum was asked about the move to not let Venkatesh Iyer open the batting with Finch and send Narine at the top. Explaining the move, McCullum said Iyer's ability to tackle spin well was one of the reasons behind the change in his batting position. “We thought that Narine and Finch at the top was a very good opportunity. We knew that the wicket was going to be good; it was going to be a high-scoring game. We know how Narine plays. Unfortunately, he didn’t face a ball tonight. It can happen sometimes, but Finch and Shreyas Iyer were absolutely brilliant at the top of the order," McCullum said after the game. “We wanted to give Venkatesh Iyer an option through the middle against spin in particular - against (Ravichandran) Ashwin and Chahal. He’s a very good player of spin and, with one short side, we wanted to try and maximize that. So, that was the thinking behind it," he added. Also Read: Yuzvendra Chahal bags his maiden IPL hat-trick, takes 4 wickets in a single over against KKR Iyer, who had opened in the first six matches for KKR this season, came out to bat at no.6 against Rajasthan Royals on Monday. However, the move backfired as he was dismissed on 6 off 7 balls and failed to make an impact as KKR faltered in the run-chase to suffer their fourth defeat of the season.

Why did Venkatesh Iyer bat at no.6 against Rajasthan Royals? KKR coach Brendon McCullum explains

Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Brendon McCullum lauded wicketkeeper batsman Sheldon Jackson for his ball-hitting abilities and hinted that he can get more chances to play for the side in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. <o:p></o:p>

The 35-year-old played the first two games of the tournament but had to make way for young fast bowler Shivam Mavi ahead of the game against Punjab Kings.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ms-dhoni-completes-350-t20s-joins-rohit-sharma-in-elite-list-against-punjab-kings-468014" hreflang="en">Dhoni completes 350 T20s, joins Rohit in elite list against Punjab Kings</a>

"Sheldon continues to get better and better. He is 35, but you wouldn’t know. His growth in the last two years has been significant. He has a good ball-striking ability. And very few players hit the ball as far as he does, he is not too far, if not the same, behind Andre Russell when he is striking the ball.” <o:p></o:p>

“I am sure with more opportunities, we will see a performance from Sheldon," McCullum told the reports according to a report on The Sportstar.<o:p></o:p>

Sheldon has impressed a lot of people with his work behind the stumps and against Royal Challengers Bangalore, he took three catches and showed fast hands to stump Shahbaz Ahmed.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-sprints-to-run-out-bhanuka-rajapaksa-with-a-stunning-effort-in-csk-vs-pbks-clash-watch-468023">MS Dhoni sprints to run out Rajapaksa with a stunning effort - WATCH</a>

McCullum went on to loosely compare Sheldon Jackson with MS Dhoni and explained that the wicketkeeper has an understanding of spin that helps him in improving his game.<o:p></o:p>

"The wicketkeeping skills have been superb. He has got an MS Dhoni sort of a feel about keeping, really fast hands, and an understanding of spin. He knows what the bowlers are doing. He is desperate to do well," said McCullum about Jackson’s wicketkeeping according to the report.<o:p></o:p>

Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Brendon McCullum lauded wicketkeeper batsman Sheldon Jackson for his ball-hitting abilities and hinted that he can get more chances to play for the side in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Brendon McCullum lauded wicketkeeper batsman Sheldon Jackson for his ball-hitting abilities and hinted that he can get more chances to play for the side in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. The 35-year-old played the first two games of the tournament but had to make way for young fast bowler Shivam Mavi ahead of the game against Punjab Kings. Also read | Dhoni completes 350 T20s, joins Rohit in elite list against Punjab Kings "Sheldon continues to get better and better. He is 35, but you wouldn’t know. His growth in the last two years has been significant. He has a good ball-striking ability. And very few players hit the ball as far as he does, he is not too far, if not the same, behind Andre Russell when he is striking the ball.” “I am sure with more opportunities, we will see a performance from Sheldon," McCullum told the reports according to a report on The Sportstar. Sheldon has impressed a lot of people with his work behind the stumps and against Royal Challengers Bangalore, he took three catches and showed fast hands to stump Shahbaz Ahmed. Also read | MS Dhoni sprints to run out Rajapaksa with a stunning effort - WATCH McCullum went on to loosely compare Sheldon Jackson with MS Dhoni and explained that the wicketkeeper has an understanding of spin that helps him in improving his game. "The wicketkeeping skills have been superb. He has got an MS Dhoni sort of a feel about keeping, really fast hands, and an understanding of spin. He knows what the bowlers are doing. He is desperate to do well," said McCullum about Jackson’s wicketkeeping according to the report.

IPL 2022: Sheldon Jackson has got a MS Dhoni sort of a feel, says KKR head coach Brendon McCullum

It was a tough outing for Kolkata Knight Riders as they were defeated by Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter in Mumbai on Wednesday.<o:p></o:p>

KKR suffered a mini batting collapse as they were bowled out for 128 thanks to brilliant bowling performances from Mohammad Siraj, Harshal Patel and Wanindu Hasaranga. In response, RCB found the going difficult but were able to reach the target with just four balls to spare.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-suresh-raina-ms-dhoni-and-ab-de-villiers-were-the-most-challenging-to-bowl-to-says-sandeep-sharma-467156" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Raina, Dhoni &amp; ABD were the toughest to bowl to - Sandeep Sharma</a>

Russell bowled just 2.2 overs and ended up conceding 36 runs as he was taken to task by the RCB batsmen. The West Indies all-rounder did not look completely fit and in the post-match press conference, head coach Brendon McCullum explained why he did not bowl his full quota.<o:p></o:p>

"Dre had run around the boundary and dived, and unfortunately picked up a little bit of a bump. His shoulder was a little bit sore. But Dre being Dre, he still wants to try to get the job done, and he wasn't quite able to. Those are things which happen in low-scoring games," McCullum said.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-is-as-close-as-it-gets-to-ms-dhoni-faf-du-plessis-lauds-rcbs-finisher-after-kkr-win-467160" hreflang="en">Faf du Plessis lauds RCB's finisher DK, compares him to MS Dhoni</a>

"I actually thought the intent was great. You back the fact that you played the extra batter, and you played a long batting line-up. You don't anticipate being bowled out obviously."<o:p></o:p>

"Honestly I felt we didn't have a lot of luck today. Every time we sort of went for our aggressive option, we seemed to find a fielder or things didn't quite go our way. That can happen sometimes. But I want us to continue to keep that intent because that served us so well last year. The way we set our teams up at the auction, and the players we picked, it suits them as well," he added.<o:p></o:p>

It was a tough outing for Kolkata Knight Riders as they were defeated by Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter in Mumbai on Wednesday.

It was a tough outing for Kolkata Knight Riders as they were defeated by Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter in Mumbai on Wednesday. KKR suffered a mini batting collapse as they were bowled out for 128 thanks to brilliant bowling performances from Mohammad Siraj, Harshal Patel and Wanindu Hasaranga. In response, RCB found the going difficult but were able to reach the target with just four balls to spare. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Raina, Dhoni & ABD were the toughest to bowl to - Sandeep Sharma Russell bowled just 2.2 overs and ended up conceding 36 runs as he was taken to task by the RCB batsmen. The West Indies all-rounder did not look completely fit and in the post-match press conference, head coach Brendon McCullum explained why he did not bowl his full quota. "Dre had run around the boundary and dived, and unfortunately picked up a little bit of a bump. His shoulder was a little bit sore. But Dre being Dre, he still wants to try to get the job done, and he wasn't quite able to. Those are things which happen in low-scoring games," McCullum said. Also read | Faf du Plessis lauds RCB's finisher DK, compares him to MS Dhoni "I actually thought the intent was great. You back the fact that you played the extra batter, and you played a long batting line-up. You don't anticipate being bowled out obviously." "Honestly I felt we didn't have a lot of luck today. Every time we sort of went for our aggressive option, we seemed to find a fielder or things didn't quite go our way. That can happen sometimes. But I want us to continue to keep that intent because that served us so well last year. The way we set our teams up at the auction, and the players we picked, it suits them as well," he added.

IPL 2022: Brendon McCullum reveals why Andre Russell did not bowl his full quota against RCB

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Brendon McCullum said he was disappointed to see the franchise lose star India batter Shubman Gill ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. Like the other franchises, KKR too had a tough time in finalising their four retentions ahead of the mega auction.

The two-time champions decided to keep West Indies all-rounders Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy and young Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer while letting go of Gill. Gill was once touted as one of the future leaders of KKR but had to be released by the franchise.

Gill was picked up by the Ahmedabad IPL franchise as one of their three picks from the players draft ahead of the auction. The young Indian batter has joined the Ahmedabad franchise for a whopping sum of Rs 8 crore (INR 80 million). McCullum said it was disappointing to lose Gill but they have their plans heading into the mega auction.

"You need to plan as you're going to lose a lot of players. It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill. But that's the way life is sometimes and we will be well prepared for the upcoming auction," said the KKR head coach in a live session on the franchise's social media handles.

McCullum also talked about the four players retained by the franchise and explained why KKR decided to keep them while letting go of the others.&nbsp;

"Sunil Narine and Andre Russell have been proven campaigners for a decade. We have all seen what Varun Chakravarthy is capable of in the last two seasons. Venkatesh Iyer was probably the story of the second half of IPL 2021," said the KKR head coach.

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KKR now have Rs 48 crore (INR 480 million) remaining in their purse heading into the mega auction next month and their focus will be on finding replacements for the likes of Russell and Narine in case of injuries to the star all-rounders. KKR will also be looking to build a strong squad that can take them over the finishing line after losing in the final lats year.

"Certainly not easy to find a backup for someone like Andre Russell and that's why he is such an important re-signing. When he is at his best, he is effectively two world-class players in one. It's really challenging to find a backup for these players. That will be the topic of our conversation. If Dre Russ is out due to injury, you could need two players, a batter and a bowler, and try to balance things out accordingly," McCullum added.

&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Brendon McCullum said he was disappointed to see the franchise lose star India batter Shubman Gill ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Brendon McCullum said he was disappointed to see the franchise lose star India batter Shubman Gill ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. Like the other franchises, KKR too had a tough time in finalising their four retentions ahead of the mega auction. The two-time champions decided to keep West Indies all-rounders Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy and young Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer while letting go of Gill. Gill was once touted as one of the future leaders of KKR but had to be released by the franchise. Gill was picked up by the Ahmedabad IPL franchise as one of their three picks from the players draft ahead of the auction. The young Indian batter has joined the Ahmedabad franchise for a whopping sum of Rs 8 crore (INR 80 million). McCullum said it was disappointing to lose Gill but they have their plans heading into the mega auction. "You need to plan as you're going to lose a lot of players. It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill. But that's the way life is sometimes and we will be well prepared for the upcoming auction," said the KKR head coach in a live session on the franchise's social media handles. McCullum also talked about the four players retained by the franchise and explained why KKR decided to keep them while letting go of the others. "Sunil Narine and Andre Russell have been proven campaigners for a decade. We have all seen what Varun Chakravarthy is capable of in the last two seasons. Venkatesh Iyer was probably the story of the second half of IPL 2021," said the KKR head coach. Also Read: BCCI set to host IPL 2022 in Maharashtra and Gujarat; 25 percent crowd likely - Report KKR now have Rs 48 crore (INR 480 million) remaining in their purse heading into the mega auction next month and their focus will be on finding replacements for the likes of Russell and Narine in case of injuries to the star all-rounders. KKR will also be looking to build a strong squad that can take them over the finishing line after losing in the final lats year. "Certainly not easy to find a backup for someone like Andre Russell and that's why he is such an important re-signing. When he is at his best, he is effectively two world-class players in one. It's really challenging to find a backup for these players. That will be the topic of our conversation. If Dre Russ is out due to injury, you could need two players, a batter and a bowler, and try to balance things out accordingly," McCullum added.

'It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill': Coach Brendon McCullum explains why KKR released star batter

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum is not happy with the lack of aggression on the part of the Kane Williamson-led side in the ICC T20 World Cup final against Australia, which the Kangaroos won by eight wickets on November 14. 
 
McCullum, who is also the coach of Indian Premier League (IPL) side Kolkata Knight Riders, said on Tuesday that the Black Caps "didn`t fire any bullets" in the summit clash, which was a great opportunity for the team to bring home a second ICC trophy this year after the Kiwis won the World Test Championship defeating India in England.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-i-reached-the-hospital-20-mins-late-both-my-windpipes-would-have-burst-mohmmad-rizwan-429711">Had I reached the hospital 20 mins late, both my windpipes would have burst: Mohmmad Rizwan</a>

Australia chased down New Zealand's 172 with seven balls to spare, with Mitchell Marsh playing an inspired knock, smashing an unbeaten 77 off 50 deliveries. And McCullum, a veteran of 100-plus Tests, 260 ODIs and 71 T20 Internationals, said that the opportunity went abegging because the Black Caps were not aggressive enough. 
 
"I don't want to say we took a knife to a gunfight? we took a gun, but we didn`t fire any bullets," McCullum said on SENZ Breakfast on Tuesday. "They were a little bit timid. Just a missed opportunity, we didn`t fire the bullets we took." 
 
The former Black Caps skipper said that the team should have been more aggressive in scoring runs. 
 
"I just expected a bit more from (Martin Guptill), he got 28 off 35 balls in the final and that in isolation doesn`t look great. But then when you strip it down, he was 16 off 15 to get underway in the final, and then his next 20 balls he scored 12 runs, that`s the time where you need to be accelerating, and all it did was (take) the air out of us. (That was) the most glaringly obvious part of our batting."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rs-15-crore-not-rs-5-crore-hardik-pandya-breaks-silence-on-watch-seized-by-customs-at-mumbai-airport-429690">'Rs 1.5 crore not Rs 5 crore': Hardik breaks silence on watch seized by customs at Mumbai airport</a> 
 
"When you take on the Aussies, you`ve got to be prepared to risk failure to overcome them. They are not going to hand it to you. I`d just like to see us be more aggressive in those situations," he added.

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum is not happy with the lack of aggression on the part of the Kane Williamson-led side in the ICC T20 World Cup final against Australia, which the Kangaroos won by eight wickets on November 14.

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum is not happy with the lack of aggression on the part of the Kane Williamson-led side in the ICC T20 World Cup final against Australia, which the Kangaroos won by eight wickets on November 14. McCullum, who is also the coach of Indian Premier League (IPL) side Kolkata Knight Riders, said on Tuesday that the Black Caps "didn`t fire any bullets" in the summit clash, which was a great opportunity for the team to bring home a second ICC trophy this year after the Kiwis won the World Test Championship defeating India in England. Also Read: Had I reached the hospital 20 mins late, both my windpipes would have burst: Mohmmad Rizwan Australia chased down New Zealand's 172 with seven balls to spare, with Mitchell Marsh playing an inspired knock, smashing an unbeaten 77 off 50 deliveries. And McCullum, a veteran of 100-plus Tests, 260 ODIs and 71 T20 Internationals, said that the opportunity went abegging because the Black Caps were not aggressive enough. "I don't want to say we took a knife to a gunfight? we took a gun, but we didn`t fire any bullets," McCullum said on SENZ Breakfast on Tuesday. "They were a little bit timid. Just a missed opportunity, we didn`t fire the bullets we took." The former Black Caps skipper said that the team should have been more aggressive in scoring runs. "I just expected a bit more from (Martin Guptill), he got 28 off 35 balls in the final and that in isolation doesn`t look great. But then when you strip it down, he was 16 off 15 to get underway in the final, and then his next 20 balls he scored 12 runs, that`s the time where you need to be accelerating, and all it did was (take) the air out of us. (That was) the most glaringly obvious part of our batting." Also Read: 'Rs 1.5 crore not Rs 5 crore': Hardik breaks silence on watch seized by customs at Mumbai airport "When you take on the Aussies, you`ve got to be prepared to risk failure to overcome them. They are not going to hand it to you. I`d just like to see us be more aggressive in those situations," he added.

Williamson & Co. were timid, they just missed an opportunity, says Former NZ skipper Brendon McCullum

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Brendon McCullum gave the players a motivating speech ahead of the side`s IPL 2021 final against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday.

KKR had won two games in the IPL 2021 during the first half but the side came back with strong performances in the UAE leg to qualify for the playoffs. The side then defeated Delhi Capitals and RCB to seal the final spot.

McCullum motivated KKR players ahead of the clash and said the side has nothing to lose which eventually makes them a dangerous team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-final-record-alert-ms-dhoni-set-to-become-first-captain-to-lead-in-300-t20s-420934">IPL 2021 final - RECORD ALERT! MS Dhoni set to become first captain to lead in 300 T20s</a>

"Imagine things work out and then in five weeks, we`re standing there with the trophy after two wins in seven games. Imagine that journey. Imagine the stories that you`ll get to tell," said McCullum in a video posted by KKR on Twitter.

"Experiences that you got to share. That`s what`s in front of us. That should enthuse us, excite us. We`ve got nothing to lose lads. And that makes us dangerous," he added.

MS Dhoni-led CSK has won the IPL title thrice and after putting on a dismal show in the 2020 season in UAE, the side made a remarkable comeback this year and some fearless cricket from the franchise has seen Dhoni`s men reach the finals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-final-prediction-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-clash-420899">CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders clash?</a>

On the other hand, Morgan`s side was completely down and out in the India leg as the side had won just two games out of seven. However, travelling to the UAE brought about a change in fortunes.

Venkatesh Iyer`s inclusion provided the much-needed boost to the batting lineup and the Kolkata-based franchise has been playing fearless cricket. Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, and Rahul Tripathi have done their job too this season.&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Brendon McCullum gave the players a motivating speech ahead of the side`s IPL 2021 final against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Brendon McCullum gave the players a motivating speech ahead of the side`s IPL 2021 final against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday. KKR had won two games in the IPL 2021 during the first half but the side came back with strong performances in the UAE leg to qualify for the playoffs. The side then defeated Delhi Capitals and RCB to seal the final spot. McCullum motivated KKR players ahead of the clash and said the side has nothing to lose which eventually makes them a dangerous team. Also Read: IPL 2021 final - RECORD ALERT! MS Dhoni set to become first captain to lead in 300 T20s "Imagine things work out and then in five weeks, we`re standing there with the trophy after two wins in seven games. Imagine that journey. Imagine the stories that you`ll get to tell," said McCullum in a video posted by KKR on Twitter. "Experiences that you got to share. That`s what`s in front of us. That should enthuse us, excite us. We`ve got nothing to lose lads. And that makes us dangerous," he added. MS Dhoni-led CSK has won the IPL title thrice and after putting on a dismal show in the 2020 season in UAE, the side made a remarkable comeback this year and some fearless cricket from the franchise has seen Dhoni`s men reach the finals. ALSO READ | CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders clash? On the other hand, Morgan`s side was completely down and out in the India leg as the side had won just two games out of seven. However, travelling to the UAE brought about a change in fortunes. Venkatesh Iyer`s inclusion provided the much-needed boost to the batting lineup and the Kolkata-based franchise has been playing fearless cricket. Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, and Rahul Tripathi have done their job too this season.

IPL2021 final: We've got nothing to lose lads and that makes us dangerous, says KKR coach Brendon McCullum

After suffering a five-wicket loss against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders'&nbsp;head coach Brendon Mccullum said that his side would definitely want some more runs from skipper Eoin Morgan in the upcoming matches.

KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal played knocks of 67 and 40 respectively as Punjab Kings defeated KKR by five wickets with three balls to spare. Shahrukh Khan also scored 22 runs off just nine balls to help Rahul`s side get over the line.

"Morgan is one of our senior players and he is one of our international batters. As captain also, in his own head he would have liked to contribute a lot more runs. Actually, I think he has captained the side really well tactically. We want some more runs from him no doubt in that, you need runs from your overseas batters. Look, I am confident that he will come right," said McCullum while replying to an ANI query on Morgan's form during a virtual post-match press conference.

Also Read :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-knows-suresh-raina-isnt-performing-well-but-he-wouldnt-replace-him-with-someone-else-virender-sehwag-417612">MS Dhoni knows Suresh Raina isn't performing well but he wouldn't replace him with someone else: Virender Sehwag</a>

"We played a great game, Punjab Kings deserved to win because they seized the key moments. I still felt we had a chance in the game, with two overs to go, Punjab Kings were in the score exactly we were in our innings. It was touch and go, small margins in this game and it did not go our way against Punjab," he added.

Earlier, Venkatesh Iyer played a knock of 67 runs off just 49 balls to help KKR post 165/7 in the allotted twenty overs. For Punjab Kings, Arshdeep Singh returned with three wickets.

"Venkatesh Iyer is definitely an all-rounder. It is not just his cricketing ability, it is his mindset and cricketing brain. He has a great perspective on the sport and he is a guy with huge ambitions, he has a great future as a genuine all-rounder. I think he is one of those cricketers who is going to get better and better. I think what he has done so far shows he belongs at this level.

Also Read :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-rr-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-rajasthan-royals-match-417588">CSK vs RR, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals match?</a>

"When asked about the controversial catch of KL Rahul that was given not-out in the penultimate over, McCullum said: "We have played enough cricket to know that they can go either way. If they go your way, you feel content with it and if it goes the other side, you understand it and wish it had gone your way. I certainly do not think that was the losing or winning of the game."

"That was a fabulous effort by Rahul Tripathi. We dropped a few catches but a lot of them were difficult. That is one area we can improve," he added.KKR will next square off against SunRisers Hyderabad on Sunday here at the Dubai International Stadium.

After suffering a five-wicket loss against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders' head coach Brendon Mccullum said that his side would definitely want some more runs from skipper Eoin Morgan in the upcoming matches.

After suffering a five-wicket loss against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders' head coach Brendon Mccullum said that his side would definitely want some more runs from skipper Eoin Morgan in the upcoming matches. KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal played knocks of 67 and 40 respectively as Punjab Kings defeated KKR by five wickets with three balls to spare. Shahrukh Khan also scored 22 runs off just nine balls to help Rahul`s side get over the line. "Morgan is one of our senior players and he is one of our international batters. As captain also, in his own head he would have liked to contribute a lot more runs. Actually, I think he has captained the side really well tactically. We want some more runs from him no doubt in that, you need runs from your overseas batters. Look, I am confident that he will come right," said McCullum while replying to an ANI query on Morgan's form during a virtual post-match press conference. Also Read : MS Dhoni knows Suresh Raina isn't performing well but he wouldn't replace him with someone else: Virender Sehwag "We played a great game, Punjab Kings deserved to win because they seized the key moments. I still felt we had a chance in the game, with two overs to go, Punjab Kings were in the score exactly we were in our innings. It was touch and go, small margins in this game and it did not go our way against Punjab," he added. Earlier, Venkatesh Iyer played a knock of 67 runs off just 49 balls to help KKR post 165/7 in the allotted twenty overs. For Punjab Kings, Arshdeep Singh returned with three wickets. "Venkatesh Iyer is definitely an all-rounder. It is not just his cricketing ability, it is his mindset and cricketing brain. He has a great perspective on the sport and he is a guy with huge ambitions, he has a great future as a genuine all-rounder. I think he is one of those cricketers who is going to get better and better. I think what he has done so far shows he belongs at this level. Also Read : CSK vs RR, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals match? "When asked about the controversial catch of KL Rahul that was given not-out in the penultimate over, McCullum said: "We have played enough cricket to know that they can go either way. If they go your way, you feel content with it and if it goes the other side, you understand it and wish it had gone your way. I certainly do not think that was the losing or winning of the game." "That was a fabulous effort by Rahul Tripathi. We dropped a few catches but a lot of them were difficult. That is one area we can improve," he added.KKR will next square off against SunRisers Hyderabad on Sunday here at the Dubai International Stadium.

IPL 2021: Brendon McCullum questions KKR skipper Eoin Morgan's poor form, says we need more runs from him

Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Eoin Morgan said coach Brendon McCullum deserves credit as the team has now won three games in the second leg of the Indian Premier League with the win over Delhi Capitals at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

"Delighted. Tough playing two day games in three days. But delighted to get a couple of points. Winning toss and fielding is not an easy thing to do. Guys were more calculated today, and it came off. When the outfield is slow, if you are cagey it can come back to hurt you."Both sides played the game hard. On a hot day, things can boil over. Thankfully it didn`t. We all played in the right spirit. And it`s a tough contest against Delhi Capitals. Full credit has to go to our coach Brendon McCullum. Its his ethos, his mindset, and the boys have bought into that," Morgan said after the game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-sunil-narine-stars-as-kkr-beat-dc-by-3-wickets-consolidate-spot-in-top-4-416618">IPL 2021: Sunil Narine stars as KKR beat DC by 3 wickets, consolidate spot in top 4</a>

DC skipper Rishabh Pant said the team was 10 runs short as they finished on 127/9 in their 20 overs. But he was quick to add that he is really happy with the performance of his bowlers as they looked to defend a low total.

"I think we were 10 short, not much. We knew wicket would slow down in the second innings. But every team is trying to win the match. We want to give 100 percent and if it doesn`t go our way we will learn and move on. Batting was pretty difficult for new batters. We wanted to capitalise in the end with the bat, but we lost wickets and ended up 10 short. Bowling performance -- really happy. There isn`t a massive change that we need to do," Pant said.

Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Eoin Morgan said coach Brendon McCullum deserves credit as the team has now won three games in the second leg of the Indian Premier League with the win over Delhi Capitals at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Eoin Morgan said coach Brendon McCullum deserves credit as the team has now won three games in the second leg of the Indian Premier League with the win over Delhi Capitals at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. "Delighted. Tough playing two day games in three days. But delighted to get a couple of points. Winning toss and fielding is not an easy thing to do. Guys were more calculated today, and it came off. When the outfield is slow, if you are cagey it can come back to hurt you."Both sides played the game hard. On a hot day, things can boil over. Thankfully it didn`t. We all played in the right spirit. And it`s a tough contest against Delhi Capitals. Full credit has to go to our coach Brendon McCullum. Its his ethos, his mindset, and the boys have bought into that," Morgan said after the game. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Sunil Narine stars as KKR beat DC by 3 wickets, consolidate spot in top 4 DC skipper Rishabh Pant said the team was 10 runs short as they finished on 127/9 in their 20 overs. But he was quick to add that he is really happy with the performance of his bowlers as they looked to defend a low total. "I think we were 10 short, not much. We knew wicket would slow down in the second innings. But every team is trying to win the match. We want to give 100 percent and if it doesn`t go our way we will learn and move on. Batting was pretty difficult for new batters. We wanted to capitalise in the end with the bat, but we lost wickets and ended up 10 short. Bowling performance -- really happy. There isn`t a massive change that we need to do," Pant said.

IPL 2021: KKR skipper Eoin Morgan credits coach Brendon McCullum for team's revamp in final leg

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) head coach Brendon McCullum will miss the upcoming season of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) due to personal reasons and COVID related travel restrictions.

Defending champions TKR have appointed Imran Jan as the head coach of the side for CPL 2021. Imran, a former Trinidad, and Tobago skipper and West Indies A cricketer himself, has been a part of the TKR setup since inception as an assistant coach.

'"The Trinbago Knight Riders, defending champions of the Caribbean Premier League, today announced a couple of changes to their support staff for CPL 2021 season," TKR said in a statement.

"Head Coach Brendon McCullum is unavailable for CPL 2021, due to personal reasons &amp; COVID related travel restrictions. Consequently, TKR have appointed Imran Jan as the Head Coach for CPL 2021.

"Additionally, Dinanath Ramnarine, the former West Indies player, has joined the support staff as advisor," it added. Ramnarine represented the West Indies in 12 Tests and four ODIs in an international career spanning from 1997 to 2002.

TKR will play their first game on August 26 versus The Guyana Amazon Warriors at Warner Park to commence the defence of their CPL title.

All 33 matches of the 2021 CPL will be played at Warner Park with a cap of 50 per cent capacity for vaccinated spectators.&nbsp;

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) head coach Brendon McCullum will miss the upcoming season of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) due to personal reasons and COVID related travel restrictions.

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) head coach Brendon McCullum will miss the upcoming season of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) due to personal reasons and COVID related travel restrictions. Defending champions TKR have appointed Imran Jan as the head coach of the side for CPL 2021. Imran, a former Trinidad, and Tobago skipper and West Indies A cricketer himself, has been a part of the TKR setup since inception as an assistant coach. '"The Trinbago Knight Riders, defending champions of the Caribbean Premier League, today announced a couple of changes to their support staff for CPL 2021 season," TKR said in a statement. "Head Coach Brendon McCullum is unavailable for CPL 2021, due to personal reasons & COVID related travel restrictions. Consequently, TKR have appointed Imran Jan as the Head Coach for CPL 2021. "Additionally, Dinanath Ramnarine, the former West Indies player, has joined the support staff as advisor," it added. Ramnarine represented the West Indies in 12 Tests and four ODIs in an international career spanning from 1997 to 2002. TKR will play their first game on August 26 versus The Guyana Amazon Warriors at Warner Park to commence the defence of their CPL title. All 33 matches of the 2021 CPL will be played at Warner Park with a cap of 50 per cent capacity for vaccinated spectators.

Brendon McCullum 'unavailable' for CPL 2021, Imran Jan appointed Trinbago Knight Riders head coach

The Board of Control for Cricket in India official has clarified how Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals can fight off humiliation from Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler's as of late surfaced recorded tweets.&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan, who was designated KKR skipper last year, and Buttler, RR's most established batsman, have been blamed for deriding Indians by tweeting in broken English and intentionally abusing the word 'sir.'&nbsp;

The England and Wales Cricket Board has opened an examination concerning the issue.&nbsp;

The BCCI official said that these four-year-old posts have put the two IPL establishments in a fix since they have ridiculed the very league they play for in India.&nbsp;

"KKR and RR will be in a fix as these are players earning from Indian Premier League and as late as 2017 were making fun of how Indians speak English. Now you can be dismissive of these posts but this also speaks about what their general perception about Indians is. It's a tricky terrain but both KKR and Royals have a way out" - senior BCCI official told PTI.

The BCCI official clarified that a statement of regret from Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler should 'get the job done' for the occasion.&nbsp;

The source likewise exhorted the franchises against IPL suspensions, saying that the ECB is now against sending players for the rest of the 2021 season, and such advances will just add up to posing.&nbsp;

"Firstly, if Shah Rukh Khan and Manoj Badale are mindful of their respective franchises' image, a statement of apology from both Morgan and Buttler would suffice. Now with ECB not allowing them for the second phase of IPL due to their own commitments, the suspension would count for very little. You are suspending players who are not coming for the second phase. It will be mere posturing."

Suspending Eoin Morgan will not be excessively badly designed for KKR as the Englishman was at that point being condemned for his initiative. RR, then again, will be more stressed in light of the fact that Jos Buttler got into his depression with a fabulous century not long before the season was suspended mid-way.&nbsp;

KKR's coach Brendon McCullum is additionally under the scanner for answering also to Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler to a portion of their tweets.&nbsp;

BCCI stressed over more offensive posts and recordings turning out in the public space. The BCCI is likewise careful about assuming control over the top activity on these arising tweets. They accept this could start off a binge of new disclosures, including old questionable recordings and different posts.&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler's tweets became exposed after the ECB opened its examination concerning pacer Ollie Robinson's eight-year-old bigot and chauvinist tweets. He has been suspended from all global cricket while another anonymous player's old posts are likewise being tested.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India official has clarified how Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals can fight off humiliation from Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler's as of late surfaced recorded tweets.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India official has clarified how Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals can fight off humiliation from Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler's as of late surfaced recorded tweets. Eoin Morgan, who was designated KKR skipper last year, and Buttler, RR's most established batsman, have been blamed for deriding Indians by tweeting in broken English and intentionally abusing the word 'sir.' The England and Wales Cricket Board has opened an examination concerning the issue. The BCCI official said that these four-year-old posts have put the two IPL establishments in a fix since they have ridiculed the very league they play for in India. "KKR and RR will be in a fix as these are players earning from Indian Premier League and as late as 2017 were making fun of how Indians speak English. Now you can be dismissive of these posts but this also speaks about what their general perception about Indians is. It's a tricky terrain but both KKR and Royals have a way out" - senior BCCI official told PTI. The BCCI official clarified that a statement of regret from Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler should 'get the job done' for the occasion. The source likewise exhorted the franchises against IPL suspensions, saying that the ECB is now against sending players for the rest of the 2021 season, and such advances will just add up to posing. "Firstly, if Shah Rukh Khan and Manoj Badale are mindful of their respective franchises' image, a statement of apology from both Morgan and Buttler would suffice. Now with ECB not allowing them for the second phase of IPL due to their own commitments, the suspension would count for very little. You are suspending players who are not coming for the second phase. It will be mere posturing." Suspending Eoin Morgan will not be excessively badly designed for KKR as the Englishman was at that point being condemned for his initiative. RR, then again, will be more stressed in light of the fact that Jos Buttler got into his depression with a fabulous century not long before the season was suspended mid-way. KKR's coach Brendon McCullum is additionally under the scanner for answering also to Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler to a portion of their tweets. BCCI stressed over more offensive posts and recordings turning out in the public space. The BCCI is likewise careful about assuming control over the top activity on these arising tweets. They accept this could start off a binge of new disclosures, including old questionable recordings and different posts. Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler's tweets became exposed after the ECB opened its examination concerning pacer Ollie Robinson's eight-year-old bigot and chauvinist tweets. He has been suspended from all global cricket while another anonymous player's old posts are likewise being tested.

Jos Buttler, Eoin Morgan's non-participation in remainder of IPL could salve their franchises conscience

Eoin Morgan and Brendon McCullum could face heat from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders for their controversial historic tweets mocking Indian accent. KKR CEO Venky Mysore has said that the IPL franchise has ‘zero tolerance’ towards discrimination and hence, Morgan and McCullum could face sanctions for their offensive tweets.<o:p></o:p>

During a conversation on Twitter in 2018, Morgan and Jos Buttler used the word ‘Sir’ to mock Indian fans and the English duo was joined by former New Zealand skipper McCullum. Notably, Morgan is the captain of KKR while McCullum is the head coach.<o:p></o:p>

The conversation resurfaced on social media platform after England debutant Ollie Robinson was suspended, pending investigation, from international cricket for his sexist and racist historic tweets dating back to 2012-13. <o:p></o:p>

“We don’t know enough about it to comment at this time. Let’s wait for the process to be completed to get all the facts before we jump to any conclusions. Just to reiterate, the Knight Riders organisation has ‘zero tolerance’ for any sort of discrimination," KKR CEO Venky Mysore told Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-announces-special-hall-of-fame-inductions-ahead-of-wtc-final-390532" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC announces special Hall of Fame inductions ahead of WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has emphasised on its strict take agai nst discrimination and said it will discuss how to proceed on such instances of past comments. <o:p></o:p>

“Since we were alerted to offensive tweets last week, a number of historical social media posts by other individuals have been questioned publicly as well," Cricbuzz quoted an ECB spokesperson as saying.<o:p></o:p>

“There is no place for discrimination in our sport, and we are committed to taking relevant and appropriate action where required. Given the concerns which have been raised are clearly now broader than a single case, the ECB will discuss how we deal with issues over historical social media material in a timely and appropriate manner."<o:p></o:p>

“Each case will be considered on an individual basis, looking at all the facts. We will assess cases with the ECB before making further statements," the spokesperson said.<o:p></o:p>

Eoin Morgan and Brendon McCullum could face heat from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders for their controversial historic tweets mocking Indian accent.

Eoin Morgan and Brendon McCullum could face heat from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders for their controversial historic tweets mocking Indian accent. KKR CEO Venky Mysore has said that the IPL franchise has ‘zero tolerance’ towards discrimination and hence, Morgan and McCullum could face sanctions for their offensive tweets. During a conversation on Twitter in 2018, Morgan and Jos Buttler used the word ‘Sir’ to mock Indian fans and the English duo was joined by former New Zealand skipper McCullum. Notably, Morgan is the captain of KKR while McCullum is the head coach. The conversation resurfaced on social media platform after England debutant Ollie Robinson was suspended, pending investigation, from international cricket for his sexist and racist historic tweets dating back to 2012-13. “We don’t know enough about it to comment at this time. Let’s wait for the process to be completed to get all the facts before we jump to any conclusions. Just to reiterate, the Knight Riders organisation has ‘zero tolerance’ for any sort of discrimination," KKR CEO Venky Mysore told Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC announces special Hall of Fame inductions ahead of WTC Final Meanwhile, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has emphasised on its strict take agai nst discrimination and said it will discuss how to proceed on such instances of past comments. “Since we were alerted to offensive tweets last week, a number of historical social media posts by other individuals have been questioned publicly as well," Cricbuzz quoted an ECB spokesperson as saying. “There is no place for discrimination in our sport, and we are committed to taking relevant and appropriate action where required. Given the concerns which have been raised are clearly now broader than a single case, the ECB will discuss how we deal with issues over historical social media material in a timely and appropriate manner." “Each case will be considered on an individual basis, looking at all the facts. We will assess cases with the ECB before making further statements," the spokesperson said.

Cricket: KKR could take action against skipper Eoin Morgan and coach Brendon McCullum for historic tweets

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum lauded Team India's bowling attack and said that their unit are best to travel to all conditions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-grand-entry-for-devon-conway-in-mens-test-player-list-390324" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list</a>

“I can only really talk about the time I was around the international game. India have had the likes of Kapil Dev, Javagal Srinath but I think in the last 20 years would have to be close to their best seam-bowling line-up. And then spinners Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin as well. I think, it's probably the most-rounded bowling line-up and is probably the best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions,” McCullum told sports today.

Brendon McCullum's comments came two weeks ahead of the much-awaited World Test Championship that will be played between Virat Kohli's Team India and Kane Williamson's New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Team India are yet to begin training as they are quarantining in the Hilton Hotel, whereas, the BlackCaps are preparing to take on England in the final Test against the hosts after the first game ended in a draw at Lord’s.

Earlier, former Pak skipper Ramiz Raja alos said that Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, however, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup.&nbsp;

"The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum lauded Team India's bowling attack and said that their unit are best to travel to all conditions. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list “I can only really talk about the time I was around the international game.

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum lauded Team India's bowling attack and said that their unit are best to travel to all conditions. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list “I can only really talk about the time I was around the international game. India have had the likes of Kapil Dev, Javagal Srinath but I think in the last 20 years would have to be close to their best seam-bowling line-up. And then spinners Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin as well. I think, it's probably the most-rounded bowling line-up and is probably the best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions,” McCullum told sports today. Brendon McCullum's comments came two weeks ahead of the much-awaited World Test Championship that will be played between Virat Kohli's Team India and Kane Williamson's New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Team India are yet to begin training as they are quarantining in the Hilton Hotel, whereas, the BlackCaps are preparing to take on England in the final Test against the hosts after the first game ended in a draw at Lord’s. Earlier, former Pak skipper Ramiz Raja alos said that Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, however, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup. "The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.

Cricket- 'India has best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions': Brendon McCullum

Brendon McCullum has praised both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson for driving their separate teams splendidly in the World Test Championship. As indicated by Brendon McCullum, the two India and New Zealand are meriting finalists of the WTC.&nbsp;

Team India and the Kiwis will meet in the World Test Championship finale in Southampton from June 18-22. While New Zealand are as of now confronting England at Lord's in the initial Test of the two-match arrangement, the Indian unforeseen arrived at the UK on Thursday.&nbsp;

Addressing Sports Today, Brendon McCullum showered acclaims on both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson in the development to the final. He said:

“Both Virat and Kane have led their sides brilliantly. Their own forms have been superb. To be able to qualify for the WTC final is a massive achievement. To reach the final of WTC, the results they needed for a long period. You have to force the situations in Test cricket to garner success in the longest format of the game. Both captains have pushed their teams to excel, and I believe they rightfully deserve the opportunity to play in the final.”

He likewise analyzed the different styles of the two skippers. As per McCullum, while their techniques might be unique, both Kohli and Williamson realize how to get the best out of their team. He explained:&nbsp;

“They are inspirational leaders but lead their teams indifferently. Kohli is out and out aggressive, while Williamson is a dominant leader but is not as expressive as his counterpart. They are true ambassadors of the game and are the must-watch talents of the present time.”

“Apart from being great leaders, they are two giants of the International game at his point of time. One of the amazing qualities they both have is to get the best out of those around them. It has helped them to achieve some special things for their countries,” McCullum went on to add.

“One of them will lift the trophy, or there is a possibility that both of them can share it because the rules have changed” - on who is the top choice to secure the WTC trophy. 
The International Cricket Council as of late reported that the two India and New Zealand will be proclaimed joint champions in the event that the WTC final closes in a draw or tie. 
&nbsp;

Brendon McCullum has praised both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson for driving their separate teams splendidly in the World Test Championship. As indicated by Brendon McCullum, the two India and New Zealand are meriting finalists of the WTC.

Brendon McCullum has praised both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson for driving their separate teams splendidly in the World Test Championship. As indicated by Brendon McCullum, the two India and New Zealand are meriting finalists of the WTC. Team India and the Kiwis will meet in the World Test Championship finale in Southampton from June 18-22. While New Zealand are as of now confronting England at Lord's in the initial Test of the two-match arrangement, the Indian unforeseen arrived at the UK on Thursday. Addressing Sports Today, Brendon McCullum showered acclaims on both Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson in the development to the final. He said: “Both Virat and Kane have led their sides brilliantly. Their own forms have been superb. To be able to qualify for the WTC final is a massive achievement. To reach the final of WTC, the results they needed for a long period. You have to force the situations in Test cricket to garner success in the longest format of the game. Both captains have pushed their teams to excel, and I believe they rightfully deserve the opportunity to play in the final.” He likewise analyzed the different styles of the two skippers. As per McCullum, while their techniques might be unique, both Kohli and Williamson realize how to get the best out of their team. He explained: “They are inspirational leaders but lead their teams indifferently. Kohli is out and out aggressive, while Williamson is a dominant leader but is not as expressive as his counterpart. They are true ambassadors of the game and are the must-watch talents of the present time.” “Apart from being great leaders, they are two giants of the International game at his point of time. One of the amazing qualities they both have is to get the best out of those around them. It has helped them to achieve some special things for their countries,” McCullum went on to add. “One of them will lift the trophy, or there is a possibility that both of them can share it because the rules have changed” - on who is the top choice to secure the WTC trophy. The International Cricket Council as of late reported that the two India and New Zealand will be proclaimed joint champions in the event that the WTC final closes in a draw or tie.

WTC Final: Brendon McCullum analyses Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles

Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum has pummeled his team for their negative demeanour after Prithvi Shaw's first-over attack on Thursday. Brendon McCullum said the players were 'shell stunned after the 24-run over as opposed to attempting to recapture force. 

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-to-cross-swords-with-the-royal-challengers-bangalore-381561" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings to cross swords with the Royal Challengers Bangalore</a>

Prithvi Shaw hit six back-to-back fours against Shivam Mavi to launch the Delhi Capitals' pursuit of 155. With KKR withdrawing, he proceeded with his attack, hitting a 41-ball 82 and joining with Shikhar Dhawan for a game dominating 132-run opening stand. 

Talking at the post-match press conference after Kolkata Knight Riders' fifth loss in seven games this season, Brendon McCullum said that albeit the first-over was a 'major blow', it wasn't as large a factor as KKR's negative body language post that attack.

"It was a big blow for us, but we still should have been able to make a comeback because Andre Russell had plenty of runs for us in the last couple of overs as well, and one big over shouldn't have been the deciding factor. I think after that over, we took a step back, and it's really frustrating from our point of view. We talk a lot about staying in the contest and about hanging in there and trying to put some momentum into the game if it's not with us. And you shouldn't be shell-shocked and not be able to respond, which we were tonight. And that's going to ask a few tough questions from us," said Brendon McCullum.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-444444-prithvi-shaws-smash-fest-reminds-netizens-of-vintage-viru-381496" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 4,4,4,4,4,4: Prithvi Shaw's smash-fest reminds netizens of vintage 'Viru'</a>

On account of Prithvi Shaw's quick assault, Delhi Capitals cavorted home with seven wickets and an astounding 21 balls to save. Shaw has obviously pronounced the Man of the Match for his thump, including 11 fours and three huge sixes.

While Prithvi Shaw made batting resemble a piece of cake, none of the KKR batsmen aside from Andre Russell could score at a strike rate of more than 125. 

Talking further, Brendon McCullum showered praises on Prithvi Shaw, Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant and their coach Ricky Ponting for urging a proactive way to deal with batting, something Brendon McCullum is longing for from his own team.

"I don't think the match was lost in the first over, but it was a huge psychological blow from Prithvi Shaw. I have a lot of respect for Prithvi because not too many people play the game with that sort of approach, and you've got to give credit also to Rishabh Pant, Ricky Ponting, and the Delhi Capitals management, who have been able to ask a player to play like that and for him to buy into that. Look, he is a rare talent, and he put us under an immense amount of pressure early on. Shivam Mavi has been really good for us in a couple of games leading into this (match), but he just wasn't allowed to settle," remarked Brendon McCullum.

Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum has pummeled his team for their negative demeanour after Prithvi Shaw's first-over attack on Thursday. Brendon McCullum said the players were 'shell stunned after the 24-run over as opposed to attempting to recapture force.

Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum has pummeled his team for their negative demeanour after Prithvi Shaw's first-over attack on Thursday. Brendon McCullum said the players were 'shell stunned after the 24-run over as opposed to attempting to recapture force. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings to cross swords with the Royal Challengers Bangalore Prithvi Shaw hit six back-to-back fours against Shivam Mavi to launch the Delhi Capitals' pursuit of 155. With KKR withdrawing, he proceeded with his attack, hitting a 41-ball 82 and joining with Shikhar Dhawan for a game dominating 132-run opening stand. Talking at the post-match press conference after Kolkata Knight Riders' fifth loss in seven games this season, Brendon McCullum said that albeit the first-over was a 'major blow', it wasn't as large a factor as KKR's negative body language post that attack. "It was a big blow for us, but we still should have been able to make a comeback because Andre Russell had plenty of runs for us in the last couple of overs as well, and one big over shouldn't have been the deciding factor. I think after that over, we took a step back, and it's really frustrating from our point of view. We talk a lot about staying in the contest and about hanging in there and trying to put some momentum into the game if it's not with us. And you shouldn't be shell-shocked and not be able to respond, which we were tonight. And that's going to ask a few tough questions from us," said Brendon McCullum. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 4,4,4,4,4,4: Prithvi Shaw's smash-fest reminds netizens of vintage 'Viru' On account of Prithvi Shaw's quick assault, Delhi Capitals cavorted home with seven wickets and an astounding 21 balls to save. Shaw has obviously pronounced the Man of the Match for his thump, including 11 fours and three huge sixes. While Prithvi Shaw made batting resemble a piece of cake, none of the KKR batsmen aside from Andre Russell could score at a strike rate of more than 125. Talking further, Brendon McCullum showered praises on Prithvi Shaw, Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant and their coach Ricky Ponting for urging a proactive way to deal with batting, something Brendon McCullum is longing for from his own team. "I don't think the match was lost in the first over, but it was a huge psychological blow from Prithvi Shaw. I have a lot of respect for Prithvi because not too many people play the game with that sort of approach, and you've got to give credit also to Rishabh Pant, Ricky Ponting, and the Delhi Capitals management, who have been able to ask a player to play like that and for him to buy into that. Look, he is a rare talent, and he put us under an immense amount of pressure early on. Shivam Mavi has been really good for us in a couple of games leading into this (match), but he just wasn't allowed to settle," remarked Brendon McCullum.

IPL 2021: 'I don't think the match was lost in the first over': Brendon McCullum

With the second Covid-19 wave grappling India, Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum addressed his side in the dressing room, saying that his group should hope to play an energising brand of cricket to give fans and spectators some respite during these testing times.

“I know people out there are struggling with what’s going on out there at the moment. In terms of the pandemic and the situation, not just here in India but also abroad, heightened here in India. I understand it’s a difficult time, we are going to do our best and play a brand of cricket and style of cricket that gives people back home something to look forward to even if it’s just for a three-four hour period,” said McCullum while addressing his teammates in a video posted on the official Twitter handle of KKR.

“We are in a privileged position, we can give a little bit of hope even in these testing times,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-cant-be-doctors-but-we-can-be-helpers-jaydev-unadkat-on-playing-ipl-amid-covid-19-pandemic-380775" hreflang="en">'We can’t be doctors, but we can be helpers': Jaydev Unadkat on playing IPL amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is far bigger than cricket or KKR. 
Against this virus, we shall Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeStaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeStaySafe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WearAMask?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WearAMask</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRHaiTaiyaar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRHaiTaiyaar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/0srHuGXg9h">pic.twitter.com/0srHuGXg9h</a>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1386980376367616003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Batting coach Abhishek Nayar, and players like Shubman Gill and Prasidh Krishna likewise urged people to remain inside and stay protected against this dangerous virus.

Yesterday, KKR pacer Pat Cummins donated $50,000 to the PM Cares Fund to help India's battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interacting in a post-match press conference after the success, skipper Eoin Morgan was found out if these conversations occurred in the dressing room, to which he answered:&nbsp;

“Yes, we’re constantly talking about this situation that’s unfolding outside of our bubble."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-tournament-isnt-over-for-bcci-till-everyone-reaches-home-safely-coo-assures-players-380753" hreflang="en">IPL tournament isn't over for BCCI till everyone reaches home safely, COO assures players</a>

“It’s not nice to watch from afar considering how lucky we are in a bubble and not be affected by it very much. We obviously lend our support and heartfelt gratitude to everybody who is ill or going through tough times,” Eoin Morgan said.

With the second Covid-19 wave grappling India, Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum addressed his side in the dressing room, saying that his group should hope to play an energising brand of cricket to give fans and spectators some respite during these testing times.

With the second Covid-19 wave grappling India, Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum addressed his side in the dressing room, saying that his group should hope to play an energising brand of cricket to give fans and spectators some respite during these testing times. “I know people out there are struggling with what’s going on out there at the moment. In terms of the pandemic and the situation, not just here in India but also abroad, heightened here in India. I understand it’s a difficult time, we are going to do our best and play a brand of cricket and style of cricket that gives people back home something to look forward to even if it’s just for a three-four hour period,” said McCullum while addressing his teammates in a video posted on the official Twitter handle of KKR. “We are in a privileged position, we can give a little bit of hope even in these testing times,” he added. ALSO READ: 'We can’t be doctors, but we can be helpers': Jaydev Unadkat on playing IPL amid COVID-19 pandemic This is far bigger than cricket or KKR. Against this virus, we shall Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo 💪#StayHomeStaySafe #WearAMask #KKRHaiTaiyaar #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/0srHuGXg9h — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) April 27, 2021 × Batting coach Abhishek Nayar, and players like Shubman Gill and Prasidh Krishna likewise urged people to remain inside and stay protected against this dangerous virus. Yesterday, KKR pacer Pat Cummins donated $50,000 to the PM Cares Fund to help India's battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. Interacting in a post-match press conference after the success, skipper Eoin Morgan was found out if these conversations occurred in the dressing room, to which he answered: “Yes, we’re constantly talking about this situation that’s unfolding outside of our bubble." ALSO READ: IPL tournament isn't over for BCCI till everyone reaches home safely, COO assures players “It’s not nice to watch from afar considering how lucky we are in a bubble and not be affected by it very much. We obviously lend our support and heartfelt gratitude to everybody who is ill or going through tough times,” Eoin Morgan said.

IPL 2021: Play a brand of cricket to give people some respite, says KKR's Brendon McCullum

After stumbling to a 38-run loss against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) coach Brendon McCullum on Sunday said that his side could have bowled Varun Chakravarthy for an extra over at the start when Glenn Maxwell had just come out to bat.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-harbhajan-sreesanth-slap-gate-to-ms-dhonis-anger-top-ipl-controversies-through-the-years-378405" hreflang="en">From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years</a>

Maxwell and AB de Villiers` knocks of 78 and 76 were backed up a spirited bowling performance as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 38 runs on Sunday here at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

Varun Chakravarthy had taken the wickets of Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar in his very first over, but skipper Eoin Morgan did not give him a consecutive second over even when Maxwell walked out to bat, and as fate had it, RCB scored 204/4 with Maxwell registering 78 runs.

"Yeah, look, in hindsight if we had our time again we probably would have bowled Varun Chakravarthy in the next over when Maxwell had just come out to bat. But look we were trying to save Varun`s overs for AB de Villiers as well when he came to the crease. In retrospect, we should have bowled him for another over but there were many other aspects where we couldn`t just tidy up which would have given us a much better chance against a confident team like RCB," said McCullum while replying to an ANI query during a virtual press conference.

When asked about Sunil Narine being called back into the KKR team, McCullum said: "Sunil Narine stood on the rope before our first game which means he has had an injury where he was not 100 per cent fit. He certainly comes into our calculations, he was touch and go for this game against RCB but we opted for Shakib who has been good for us and he gives us an extra bit of batting. After three games, the guys have played well, we have not got the results, we probably would need some fresh legs for slightly different wickets in Mumbai."

"We probably expect to make one or two changes in our next game, but overall I think, we have shown we have a good chance in this tournament if we tidy up. There was some tremendous batting from Maxwell and ABD on the surface which was probably the best we have seen in Chennai, but it was still tricky at times but both these batsmen took the surface out of the equation," he added.

Earlier, RCB might have been 9/2 in the second over, but Maxwell and de Villiers` knocks of 78 and 76 ensured that the side posts a total of 204/4 in the allotted twenty overs. Along with Maxwell and de Villiers, Devdutt Padikkal and Kyle Jamieson also played knocks of 25 and 11 respectively. For KKR, Varun Chakravarthy returned with two wickets.

"In the past, we have not been made to plan much as Maxwell has not been in top form but it appears, he has come this year with a really refreshed attitude. He is taking the game on, we have seen him being successful in the Big Bash and Australia. He took the game away from us in a crunch situation but if we had our time again, we would have tried few different things," said McCullum.

KKR has now lost two games out of three and they will next take on MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Wednesday.

After stumbling to a 38-run loss against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) coach Brendon McCullum on Sunday said that his side could have bowled Varun Chakravarthy for an extra over at the start when Glenn Maxwell had just come out to bat.

After stumbling to a 38-run loss against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) coach Brendon McCullum on Sunday said that his side could have bowled Varun Chakravarthy for an extra over at the start when Glenn Maxwell had just come out to bat. IN PICS: From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years Maxwell and AB de Villiers` knocks of 78 and 76 were backed up a spirited bowling performance as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 38 runs on Sunday here at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Varun Chakravarthy had taken the wickets of Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar in his very first over, but skipper Eoin Morgan did not give him a consecutive second over even when Maxwell walked out to bat, and as fate had it, RCB scored 204/4 with Maxwell registering 78 runs. "Yeah, look, in hindsight if we had our time again we probably would have bowled Varun Chakravarthy in the next over when Maxwell had just come out to bat. But look we were trying to save Varun`s overs for AB de Villiers as well when he came to the crease. In retrospect, we should have bowled him for another over but there were many other aspects where we couldn`t just tidy up which would have given us a much better chance against a confident team like RCB," said McCullum while replying to an ANI query during a virtual press conference. When asked about Sunil Narine being called back into the KKR team, McCullum said: "Sunil Narine stood on the rope before our first game which means he has had an injury where he was not 100 per cent fit. He certainly comes into our calculations, he was touch and go for this game against RCB but we opted for Shakib who has been good for us and he gives us an extra bit of batting. After three games, the guys have played well, we have not got the results, we probably would need some fresh legs for slightly different wickets in Mumbai." "We probably expect to make one or two changes in our next game, but overall I think, we have shown we have a good chance in this tournament if we tidy up. There was some tremendous batting from Maxwell and ABD on the surface which was probably the best we have seen in Chennai, but it was still tricky at times but both these batsmen took the surface out of the equation," he added. Earlier, RCB might have been 9/2 in the second over, but Maxwell and de Villiers` knocks of 78 and 76 ensured that the side posts a total of 204/4 in the allotted twenty overs. Along with Maxwell and de Villiers, Devdutt Padikkal and Kyle Jamieson also played knocks of 25 and 11 respectively. For KKR, Varun Chakravarthy returned with two wickets. "In the past, we have not been made to plan much as Maxwell has not been in top form but it appears, he has come this year with a really refreshed attitude. He is taking the game on, we have seen him being successful in the Big Bash and Australia. He took the game away from us in a crunch situation but if we had our time again, we would have tried few different things," said McCullum. KKR has now lost two games out of three and they will next take on MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Wednesday.

IPL 2021: Narine will come into our calculations for the coming games, says McCullum

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman&nbsp;Mohammad Rizwan joined former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum in an exclusive list of&nbsp;glovesmen&nbsp;to have scored a century in all three formats of cricket -&nbsp;Test, ODI and T20I.&nbsp;

Rizwan smashed an unbeaten&nbsp;104 runs off just 64 deliveries laced with six boundaries and seven sixes to help Pakistan post 169 runs on the scoreboard in the first T20I against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rizwan scored his maiden Test ton, against South Africa, in the recently concluded two-match Test series, which Pakistan won 2-0. The Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman has two ODI centuries – both against Australia in the year 2019,&nbsp;&nbsp;

Before Rizwan, McCullum was the only wicketkeeper-batsman to have scored&nbsp;at least&nbsp;a century across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-announce-squad-for-t20i-series-against-india-as-jos-buttler-dawid-malan-return-362923" hreflang="en">England announce squad for T20I series against India as Jos Buttler, Dawid Malan return</a>

Rizwan started his knock at a&nbsp;slow rate, scoring run a ball, before upping the ante in the second half of the innings as he smashed the Proteas bowlers all over the park at the Gaddafi Stadium. He was received by his teammates in the dressing room amid standing ovation as he took&nbsp;Pakistan to a competitive total.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{b5610589-4d2f-4bf3-8a5f-f9c39a85da6f}{180}" paraid="1384806614" xml:lang="EN-GB">Mohammed Rizwan's innings breakdown:&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

First 30 Balls - 101.1&nbsp;&nbsp;

After 30 Balls - 192.3&nbsp;&nbsp;

S/R in all T20s&nbsp;&nbsp;

First 30 Balls - 110.9&nbsp;&nbsp;

After 30 Balls - 161.9

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-and-irfan-pathan-back-wasim-jaffer-over-communal-bias-controversy-362885" hreflang="en">Anil Kumble and Irfan Pathan back Wasim Jaffer over communal bias controversy</a>&nbsp;

Rizwan, with his blistering knock, became the first Pakistan batsman to hammer seven sixes in an innings while also becoming the second Pakistan batsman, after Ahmed Shehzad, to score a ton in T20Is.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan joined former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum in an exclusive list of glovesmen to have scored a century in all three formats of cricket - Test, ODI and T20I.

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan joined former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum in an exclusive list of glovesmen to have scored a century in all three formats of cricket - Test, ODI and T20I. Rizwan smashed an unbeaten 104 runs off just 64 deliveries laced with six boundaries and seven sixes to help Pakistan post 169 runs on the scoreboard in the first T20I against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Rizwan scored his maiden Test ton, against South Africa, in the recently concluded two-match Test series, which Pakistan won 2-0. The Pakistan wicket-keeper batsman has two ODI centuries – both against Australia in the year 2019, Before Rizwan, McCullum was the only wicketkeeper-batsman to have scored at least a century across formats. ALSO READ: England announce squad for T20I series against India as Jos Buttler, Dawid Malan return Rizwan started his knock at a slow rate, scoring run a ball, before upping the ante in the second half of the innings as he smashed the Proteas bowlers all over the park at the Gaddafi Stadium. He was received by his teammates in the dressing room amid standing ovation as he took Pakistan to a competitive total. Mohammed Rizwan's innings breakdown: First 30 Balls - 101.1 After 30 Balls - 192.3 S/R in all T20s First 30 Balls - 110.9 After 30 Balls - 161.9 ALSO READ: Anil Kumble and Irfan Pathan back Wasim Jaffer over communal bias controversy Rizwan, with his blistering knock, became the first Pakistan batsman to hammer seven sixes in an innings while also becoming the second Pakistan batsman, after Ahmed Shehzad, to score a ton in T20Is.

Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan joins Brendon McCullum in unique list after maiden T20I century

Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum said his batsmen will have to address their lack of intent after managing only 84 runs from 20 overs in Wednesday’s eight-wicket Indian Premier League (IPL) defeat by Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Kolkata’s total in seam-friendly conditions in Abu Dhabi was the lowest score in the IPL by a team playing its full quota of 20 overs, with Mumbai Indians’ 94-8 against Rajasthan Royals in 2011 the previous record.

Bangalore’s Mohammed Siraj was the pick of the bowlers, giving away eight runs in his four overs and picking up three wickets.

“RCB bowled really well. Siraj bowled an excellent line and length and I think he was able to present the seam and ask a few questions of us, questions which in the past we have answered better than we did,” McCullum told reporters.

“Before the game we talked about wanting to show strong intent at the top of the order and we lacked intent. That’s something we’re going to have to address... you have to be creative to get yourselves into the game.

“You’re not going to win too many games from 40-6... we’ve got to bounce back. That could be the nature of this tournament with the conditions being slightly challenging... find a way to pick yourselves up and get a result after a poor one.”

Twice champions Kolkata are fourth in the table with 10 points from as many games, while Bangalore are second on 14 points, trailing leaders Delhi Capitals only on net run rate.

Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum said his batsmen will have to address their lack of intent after managing only 84 runs from 20 overs in Wednesday’s eight-wicket Indian Premier League (IPL) defeat by Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Kolkata Knight Riders coach Brendon McCullum said his batsmen will have to address their lack of intent after managing only 84 runs from 20 overs in Wednesday’s eight-wicket Indian Premier League (IPL) defeat by Royal Challengers Bangalore. Kolkata’s total in seam-friendly conditions in Abu Dhabi was the lowest score in the IPL by a team playing its full quota of 20 overs, with Mumbai Indians’ 94-8 against Rajasthan Royals in 2011 the previous record. Bangalore’s Mohammed Siraj was the pick of the bowlers, giving away eight runs in his four overs and picking up three wickets. “RCB bowled really well. Siraj bowled an excellent line and length and I think he was able to present the seam and ask a few questions of us, questions which in the past we have answered better than we did,” McCullum told reporters. “Before the game we talked about wanting to show strong intent at the top of the order and we lacked intent. That’s something we’re going to have to address... you have to be creative to get yourselves into the game. “You’re not going to win too many games from 40-6... we’ve got to bounce back. That could be the nature of this tournament with the conditions being slightly challenging... find a way to pick yourselves up and get a result after a poor one.” Twice champions Kolkata are fourth in the table with 10 points from as many games, while Bangalore are second on 14 points, trailing leaders Delhi Capitals only on net run rate.

IPL 2020: McCullum wants more from Kolkata batsman

IPL trivia: Top 5 batsmen with highest individual scores!

Former New Zealand captain and current head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Brendon McCullum is of the view that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will target the October window to conduct the 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which has been indefinitely postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

McCullum reckons that IPL will be played in October with ICC T20 World Cup getting pushed back to 2021. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18-November 15.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-cricket-in-india-in-near-future-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-294214" hreflang="en">No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly</a>

“I think the IPL will try and target that October window and the T20 World Cup will get pushed back,” McCullum, the coach of IPL side KKR, said in a podcast.

There are two major ICC events scheduled for the year 2021 in ICC Women’s World Cup and ICC T20 World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted by India.&nbsp;

“That may mean the Women’s World Cup gets pushed back but hopefully we get to see all three tournaments operate,” McCullum said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-seven-year-old-pari-sharma-leaves-michael-vaughan-shai-hope-and-other-top-cricketers-in-awe-with-her-batting-skills-294189" hreflang="en">Watch: Seven-year-old Pari Sharma leaves Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope and other top cricketers in awe with her batting skills</a>

However, the former Black Caps skipper said that for Australia, moving 16 international teams along with the broadcasters and support staff is a far-fetched idea at the moment while adding he doesn’t see the T20 World Cup being played behind closed doors.

“For Australia to move 16 international teams plus all of their support staff and then broadcasters, seems a bridge too far. I can’t see them playing the T20 World Cup behind closed doors either,” McCullum said.

“There may be a window a bit later in the new year of 2021 which could then open up a window for the IPL (in October and November). You’d have to move some overseas players for the IPL but with the broadcasters based in India, it is a lot easier to pull it all together,” he added. 
&nbsp;

Former New Zealand captain and current head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Brendon McCullum is of the view that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will target the October window to conduct the 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which has been indefinitely postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Former New Zealand captain and current head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Brendon McCullum is of the view that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will target the October window to conduct the 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), which has been indefinitely postponed amid COVID-19 pandemic. McCullum reckons that IPL will be played in October with ICC T20 World Cup getting pushed back to 2021. The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by Australia from October 18-November 15. ALSO READ: No cricket in India in near future, says BCCI president Sourav  Ganguly “I think the IPL will try and target that October window and the T20 World Cup will get pushed back,” McCullum, the coach of IPL side KKR, said in a podcast. There are two major ICC events scheduled for the year 2021 in ICC Women’s World Cup and ICC T20 World Cup 2021, scheduled to be hosted by India. “That may mean the Women’s World Cup gets pushed back but hopefully we get to see all three tournaments operate,” McCullum said. ALSO READ: Watch: Seven-year-old Pari Sharma leaves Michael Vaughan, Shai Hope and other top cricketers in awe with her batting skills However, the former Black Caps skipper said that for Australia, moving 16 international teams along with the broadcasters and support staff is a far-fetched idea at the moment while adding he doesn’t see the T20 World Cup being played behind closed doors. “For Australia to move 16 international teams plus all of their support staff and then broadcasters, seems a bridge too far. I can’t see them playing the T20 World Cup behind closed doors either,” McCullum said. “There may be a window a bit later in the new year of 2021 which could then open up a window for the IPL (in October and November). You’d have to move some overseas players for the IPL but with the broadcasters based in India, it is a lot easier to pull it all together,” he added.

T20 World Cup could be pushed back to 2021 with IPL 13 taking October window: Brendon McCullum

Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum announced on Monday he would retire from cricket at the end of the ongoing GT20 tournament in Canada.

One of the most hard-hitting batsmen of his generation, the 37-year-old McCullum skippered New Zealand to the 2015 World Cup final, where they were beaten by Australia.

He also won plaudits for the aggressive yet sporting way in which he captained his country, before quitting international duty in 2016 after his 101st Test match.

McCullum has spent the past few years playing in T20 competitions across the globe, his final stint coming with the Toronto Nationals.

"It is with pride and satisfaction that I am today announcing my retirement from all cricket following the conclusion of the GT20 in Canada," McCullum wrote on social media.

"As much as I am proud of what I've achieved in my 20 year professional career - more than I could ever have dreamed of when I first entered the game - I have felt the drive to keep going harder to maintain in recent months."

"I look back with pride over the way I've played the game and what I've achieved... I can leave the game knowing I left no stone unturned," he added.

"It's been one hell of a ride but I've always maintained that all good things must come to an end."

Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum announced on Monday he would retire from cricket at the end of the ongoing GT20 tournament in Canada. One of the most hard-hitting batsmen of his generation, the 37-year-old McCullum skippered New Zealand to the 2015 World Cup final, where they were beaten by Australia.

Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum announced on Monday he would retire from cricket at the end of the ongoing GT20 tournament in Canada. One of the most hard-hitting batsmen of his generation, the 37-year-old McCullum skippered New Zealand to the 2015 World Cup final, where they were beaten by Australia. He also won plaudits for the aggressive yet sporting way in which he captained his country, before quitting international duty in 2016 after his 101st Test match. McCullum has spent the past few years playing in T20 competitions across the globe, his final stint coming with the Toronto Nationals. "It is with pride and satisfaction that I am today announcing my retirement from all cricket following the conclusion of the GT20 in Canada," McCullum wrote on social media. "As much as I am proud of what I've achieved in my 20 year professional career - more than I could ever have dreamed of when I first entered the game - I have felt the drive to keep going harder to maintain in recent months." "I look back with pride over the way I've played the game and what I've achieved... I can leave the game knowing I left no stone unturned," he added. "It's been one hell of a ride but I've always maintained that all good things must come to an end."

New Zealand's Brendon McCullum calls time on career

Virat Kohli played a skipper's knock to help his side set a target of 176 runs after loss of four wickets against Kolkata at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday.

Kohli smashed an unbeaten 68 off 44 which included five fours and three sixes.&nbsp

Openers Quinton de Kock and Brendon McCullum gave Bangalore a perfect start as the two build a partnership of 67 runs.

While de Kock contributed 29 runs, McCullum made 38 runs before giving away their wickets to Yadav and Russell.

Andre Russell bowled three overs and gave away 31 runs and took three wickets for his side.

Earlier, Kolkata's Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to field against Bangalore.

Speaking after toss, Karthik said, " We're bowling first. Looks a dry wicket, make best use of it initially. Let's see how it goes. Same team. Trust the same team, wish they bring the goods for us. Important we trust the people we play in the XI. Picked a bunch of players we believe in."

When asked Kohli about the strategy for today, he said, " Would have bowled first too, difficult ground to defend. Got to take up the challenge, toss is only in your control that much. Not bad toss to lose actually. Will stay similar throughout as DK mentioned. Hopefully it wears off and spinners get purchase."

"This ground has always been difficult to defend, we've done that to other teams too. Hats off to them (CSK). Our bowlers have put it behind them. AB is sick, Southee replaces him. Negi replaced by Vohra. M Ashwin comes in for Washington Sundar."

"AB has got a bit of a viral fever going. If he could, he would play with one leg and one hand. But he's taken the call himself, have to respect that, " Kohli concluded.

Teams:

Bangalore (Playing XI): Quinton de Kock(w), Brendon McCullum, Virat Kohli(c), Manan Vohra, Mandeep Singh, Colin de Grandhomme, Murugan Ashwin, Tim Southee, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Shivam Mavi, Piyush Chawla, Mitchell Johnson, Kuldeep Yadav 
&nbsp&nbsp

Kohli's innings included five fours and three sixes.

Virat Kohli played a skipper's knock to help his side set a target of 176 runs after loss of four wickets against Kolkata at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday. Kohli smashed an unbeaten 68 off 44 which included five fours and three sixes. Openers Quinton de Kock and Brendon McCullum gave Bangalore a perfect start as the two build a partnership of 67 runs. While de Kock contributed 29 runs, McCullum made 38 runs before giving away their wickets to Yadav and Russell. Andre Russell bowled three overs and gave away 31 runs and took three wickets for his side. Earlier, Kolkata's Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to field against Bangalore. Speaking after toss, Karthik said, " We're bowling first. Looks a dry wicket, make best use of it initially. Let's see how it goes. Same team. Trust the same team, wish they bring the goods for us. Important we trust the people we play in the XI. Picked a bunch of players we believe in." When asked Kohli about the strategy for today, he said, " Would have bowled first too, difficult ground to defend. Got to take up the challenge, toss is only in your control that much. Not bad toss to lose actually. Will stay similar throughout as DK mentioned. Hopefully it wears off and spinners get purchase." "This ground has always been difficult to defend, we've done that to other teams too. Hats off to them (CSK). Our bowlers have put it behind them. AB is sick, Southee replaces him. Negi replaced by Vohra. M Ashwin comes in for Washington Sundar." "AB has got a bit of a viral fever going. If he could, he would play with one leg and one hand. But he's taken the call himself, have to respect that, " Kohli concluded. Teams: Bangalore (Playing XI): Quinton de Kock(w), Brendon McCullum, Virat Kohli(c), Manan Vohra, Mandeep Singh, Colin de Grandhomme, Murugan Ashwin, Tim Southee, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Shivam Mavi, Piyush Chawla, Mitchell Johnson, Kuldeep Yadav

IPL 2018: Virat Kohli's unbeaten 68 powers Bangalore to 175

The first edition of IPL was very mysterious as we did not have a single clue that how mammoth this tournament will become in the next ten years. The popularity it received from the first match was massive.

The concept of a tournament in which 8 teams were there and each team was comprised of both national and international players. The teams were supposed to play a home and an away match against every other team. Almost all the teams got popular due to its association with celebrity figures.

Though the concept was established in the year 2007 but the mega event was kicked off 18 April 2008 and the auctions for the same were conducted on 20 February 2008 in which Mahendra Singh Dhoni became the most expensive player of the season by winning the highest bid of US $ 1.5 million.

The first match was between Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings and the KKR fans&nbsp;went gaga when they watched a New Zealand star player hitting runs in the directions for their favourite team.

Yes, it was Brendon McCullum who scored 158 off 73 balls and registered&nbsp;the first century in&nbsp;IPL history.&nbsp;That particular knock is one of the most remembered innings played in IPL till now.

Watch&nbsp;the video here:&nbsp;

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Kolkata had an amazing start in 2008 IPL but they failed to continue the momentum and the tournament concluded with Rajasthan Royals as the champions. Yusuf Pathan named the player of the match and Shane Watson declared as the player of the tournament for inspiring his team to victory.

Also watch Top 10 scorers in IPL history:

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From Dhoni to Kohli, here&#39;s a list of all the leading run-scorers in IPL. Number 1 rank might surprise you (Zee News Network)
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Brendon McCullum scored 158 off 73 balls in the inaugural match and registered the first century in IPL history

The first edition of IPL was very mysterious as we did not have a single clue that how mammoth this tournament will become in the next ten years. The popularity it received from the first match was massive. The concept of a tournament in which 8 teams were there and each team was comprised of both national and international players. The teams were supposed to play a home and an away match against every other team. Almost all the teams got popular due to its association with celebrity figures. Though the concept was established in the year 2007 but the mega event was kicked off 18 April 2008 and the auctions for the same were conducted on 20 February 2008 in which Mahendra Singh Dhoni became the most expensive player of the season by winning the highest bid of US $ 1.5 million. The first match was between Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings and the KKR fans went gaga when they watched a New Zealand star player hitting runs in the directions for their favourite team. Yes, it was Brendon McCullum who scored 158 off 73 balls and registered the first century in IPL history. That particular knock is one of the most remembered innings played in IPL till now. Watch the video here: × Kolkata had an amazing start in 2008 IPL but they failed to continue the momentum and the tournament concluded with Rajasthan Royals as the champions. Yusuf Pathan named the player of the match and Shane Watson declared as the player of the tournament for inspiring his team to victory. Also watch Top 10 scorers in IPL history: From Dhoni to Kohli, here's a list of all the leading run-scorers in IPL. Number 1 rank might surprise you (Zee News Network) ×

Throwback to first and most remembered century in IPL history

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