<p class="MsoNormal">Sunrisers Hyderabad mentor VVS Laxman on Saturday revealed why left-arm pacer Thangarasu Natarajan missed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Known as a yorker-specialist, Natarajan missing from the playing XI came as a huge surprise to many as SRH opted to start with Khaleel Ahmed. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, Laxman revealed why the left-arm sensation missed the match against Mumbai Indians. The former Indian batsman said that Natarajan is suffering from a sore knee and the medical staff deemed him unfit for the match against MI. The SRH mentor added that the medical team is assessing the Indian pacer and will decide on the best possible step soon. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, unfortunately, Natarajan missed out because of a sore knee and a niggle in his left knee, he was ruled out of this match. So, he was unfit for this match and that’s why we went with Khaleel Ahmed. We are going to assess the condition of Natarajan and I’m sure that the medical staff of Sunrisers will take the right decision which will be beneficial for him and the franchise,” VVS Laxman said in the post-match press conference on Saturday.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-378258" hreflang="en">From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Laxman further praised Khaleel for his good outing in his first IPL 2021 match after he conceded just 25 runs in his four-over quota while picking up one wicket. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“I was very impressed with the way Khaleel Ahmed bowled in his first game of the season. I think he assessed the conditions really well and used a lot of his variation along with extracting a lot of pace and bounce off the surface. So, a lot of positives for SRH in the Khaleel Ahmed bowled,” VVS Laxman said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-head-to-head-stats-chennai-weather-forecast-pitch-report-all-you-need-to-know-378360" hreflang="en">RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai weather forecast, pitch report - All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">SRH will next play against Punjab Kings here at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Wednesday.<o:p></o:p></p>


Sunrisers Hyderabad mentor VVS Laxman on Saturday revealed why left-arm pacer Thangarasu Natarajan missed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Sunrisers Hyderabad mentor VVS Laxman on Saturday revealed why left-arm pacer Thangarasu Natarajan missed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Known as a yorker-specialist, Natarajan missing from the playing XI came as a huge surprise to many as SRH opted to start with Khaleel Ahmed. However, Laxman revealed why the left-arm sensation missed the match against Mumbai Indians. The former Indian batsman said that Natarajan is suffering from a sore knee and the medical staff deemed him unfit for the match against MI. The SRH mentor added that the medical team is assessing the Indian pacer and will decide on the best possible step soon. “Yeah, unfortunately, Natarajan missed out because of a sore knee and a niggle in his left knee, he was ruled out of this match. So, he was unfit for this match and that’s why we went with Khaleel Ahmed. We are going to assess the condition of Natarajan and I’m sure that the medical staff of Sunrisers will take the right decision which will be beneficial for him and the franchise,” VVS Laxman said in the post-match press conference on Saturday. ALSO READ: From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols Laxman further praised Khaleel for his good outing in his first IPL 2021 match after he conceded just 25 runs in his four-over quota while picking up one wicket. “I was very impressed with the way Khaleel Ahmed bowled in his first game of the season. I think he assessed the conditions really well and used a lot of his variation along with extracting a lot of pace and bounce off the surface. So, a lot of positives for SRH in the Khaleel Ahmed bowled,” VVS Laxman said. ALSO READ: RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai weather forecast, pitch report - All you need to know SRH will next play against Punjab Kings here at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Wednesday.

IPL 2021: VVS Laxman reveals why T Natarajan missed Mumbai Indians match

<p class="MsoNormal">The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Sunday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in what will be the first match of the very first doubleheader of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">RCB have made an unbeaten start to their season with two wins in as many matches whereas KKR have won one and lost one. While the Virat Kohli-led RCB have gone on to impress many with their all-round show in the first two matches of IPL 2021, KKR threw their last match from a winning position against Mumbai Indians and would be looking to bounce back strong.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Both teams have produced some memorable matches and the encounter promises to be a cracker of a match in Chennai.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-378258">From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><strong>RCB vs KKR, Chennai, MA Chidambaram Stadium: Weather forecast and pitch report</strong></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">With the match set to be played in the afternoon, Chennai is likely to offer hot and dry conditions with the temperature hovering around 33 degrees Celcius. Batting first looks like the better option and chasing could become a problem for the team batting second. A score of 160 could be competitive. Both the teams are expected to play an extra spinner, given the conditions of the offer.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats</h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">In statistical battle, both KKR and RCB are even. In their head-to-head record, KKR have won 14 matches while RCB have ended up with 12 wins out of 26 matches played, in what has been a riveting rivalry between the two franchises.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-overtakes-ms-dhoni-to-become-indian-with-most-number-of-sixes-in-ipl-378293" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma overtakes MS Dhoni to become Indian with most number of sixes in IPL</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Expected changes in playing XI</strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Both RCB and KKR have found a good balance in their playing XI early on and besides playing an extra spinner, there shouldn’t be many changes in the teams. However, KKR’s middle-order, which has some big names but been equally disappointing would be looking to set the record set against RCB.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">But all eyes will be on the duo of Kohli and AB de Villiers from RCB when they take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></p>


The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Sunday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in what will be the first match of the very first doubleheader of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Sunday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in what will be the first match of the very first doubleheader of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. RCB have made an unbeaten start to their season with two wins in as many matches whereas KKR have won one and lost one. While the Virat Kohli-led RCB have gone on to impress many with their all-round show in the first two matches of IPL 2021, KKR threw their last match from a winning position against Mumbai Indians and would be looking to bounce back strong. Both teams have produced some memorable matches and the encounter promises to be a cracker of a match in Chennai. ALSO READ: From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols RCB vs KKR, Chennai, MA Chidambaram Stadium: Weather forecast and pitch report With the match set to be played in the afternoon, Chennai is likely to offer hot and dry conditions with the temperature hovering around 33 degrees Celcius. Batting first looks like the better option and chasing could become a problem for the team batting second. A score of 160 could be competitive. Both the teams are expected to play an extra spinner, given the conditions of the offer. RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats In statistical battle, both KKR and RCB are even. In their head-to-head record, KKR have won 14 matches while RCB have ended up with 12 wins out of 26 matches played, in what has been a riveting rivalry between the two franchises. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma overtakes MS Dhoni to become Indian with most number of sixes in IPL RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Expected changes in playing XI Both RCB and KKR have found a good balance in their playing XI early on and besides playing an extra spinner, there shouldn’t be many changes in the teams. However, KKR’s middle-order, which has some big names but been equally disappointing would be looking to set the record set against RCB. But all eyes will be on the duo of Kohli and AB de Villiers from RCB when they take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.

RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai weather forecast, pitch report - All you need to know

<p class="MsoNormal">Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Sunday continued their unbeaten run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 38 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. RCB have now won three matches on the trot in IPL 2021 while KKR have lost two and won one. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">AB de Villiers and Glenn Maxwell were the stars of the day for RCB as the duo smashed half-centuries to help the team post a mammoth total of 204/4 in 20 overs. Maxwell started the onslaught with a 49-ball 78 at a time when RCB were struggling at 9/2 on tricky batting conditions in Chennai. De Villiers stole the show as he closed the innings with some thunderous strokes all over the park at the Chepauk. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">It was a tough outing for the KKR bowlers after Varun Chakaravarthy’s splendid start with the ball after he picked up two wickets in his very first over.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&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></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">KKR enjoyed a brisk start, chasing 205. However, they lost opener Shubman Gill for 18 before Rahul Tripathi joined him after a 20-ball 25. Nitish Rana followed the duo soon after scoring 25.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Former KKR skipper Dinesh Karthik also failed to get it going and was sent packing for a five-ball two. While Shakib al Hasan and Eoin Morgan stitched a steady partnership, it failed to accelerate the run rate.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-378258">From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Big-hitting all-rounder Andre Russell smoked a couple of sixes but it was too little too late for KKR as they fall short by 38 runs to succumb to their second defeat in IPL 2021.<o:p></o:p></p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Sunday continued their unbeaten run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 38 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Sunday continued their unbeaten run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as the Virat Kohli-led outfit defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 38 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. RCB have now won three matches on the trot in IPL 2021 while KKR have lost two and won one. AB de Villiers and Glenn Maxwell were the stars of the day for RCB as the duo smashed half-centuries to help the team post a mammoth total of 204/4 in 20 overs. Maxwell started the onslaught with a 49-ball 78 at a time when RCB were struggling at 9/2 on tricky batting conditions in Chennai. De Villiers stole the show as he closed the innings with some thunderous strokes all over the park at the Chepauk. It was a tough outing for the KKR bowlers after Varun Chakaravarthy’s splendid start with the ball after he picked up two wickets in his very first over. ALSO READ: From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years KKR enjoyed a brisk start, chasing 205. However, they lost opener Shubman Gill for 18 before Rahul Tripathi joined him after a 20-ball 25. Nitish Rana followed the duo soon after scoring 25. Former KKR skipper Dinesh Karthik also failed to get it going and was sent packing for a five-ball two. While Shakib al Hasan and Eoin Morgan stitched a steady partnership, it failed to accelerate the run rate. ALSO READ: From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols Big-hitting all-rounder Andre Russell smoked a couple of sixes but it was too little too late for KKR as they fall short by 38 runs to succumb to their second defeat in IPL 2021.

De Villiers, Maxwell star as RCB continue unbeaten show in IPL 2021; defeat KKR by 38 runs

<p class="MsoNormal">Former England captain Michael Vaughan has said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder Glenn Maxwell might win the player of the tournament in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Maxwell has been at his best following a disastrous last season, which was played in the UAE. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Maxwell has turned the tables this season and has helped RCB get off to a flying start in IPL 2021 with two wins in two matches. Even in the match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Maxwell scored a vital 78 off 49 after coming at the crease when RCB were struggling at 9/2.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span>"Love watching @Gmaxi_32Bat. He might just end up being the player of the tournament .. slightly under the radar in the same team as @imVkohli&amp; @ABdeVilliers17!!! @RCBTweets looking the strongest I have seen them ... #IPL2021," Vaughan tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Love watching <a href="https://twitter.com/Gmaxi_32?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Gmaxi_32</a> Bat .. He might just end up being the player of the tournament .. slightly under the radar in the same team as <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a> !!! <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> looking the strongest I have seen them ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/cricbuzz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cricbuzz</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1383730329962258435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Both Kohli and Patidar were dismissed for a single-digit score but Maxwell looked on song from the word go. The Aussie showed his range of shots as he smashed the KKR bowlers all over the park. In the process, he also became the highest run-scorer (holder of the Orange cap) in IPL 2021.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Ridiculous <a href="https://twitter.com/Gmaxi_32?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Gmaxi_32</a> !!!</p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1383741769943187461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Following Maxwell’s knock, AB de Villiers raced to another half-century in IPL as he whacked an unbeaten 76 off 34 to help RCB post a mammoth 205 runs on the board.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">So far, KKR have won one and lost one while RCB have witnessed an unbeaten start in IPL 2021.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan has said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder Glenn Maxwell might win the player of the tournament in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder Glenn Maxwell might win the player of the tournament in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Maxwell has been at his best following a disastrous last season, which was played in the UAE. Maxwell has turned the tables this season and has helped RCB get off to a flying start in IPL 2021 with two wins in two matches. Even in the match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Maxwell scored a vital 78 off 49 after coming at the crease when RCB were struggling at 9/2. "Love watching @Gmaxi_32Bat. He might just end up being the player of the tournament .. slightly under the radar in the same team as @imVkohli& @ABdeVilliers17!!! @RCBTweets looking the strongest I have seen them ... #IPL2021," Vaughan tweeted. Love watching @Gmaxi_32 Bat .. He might just end up being the player of the tournament .. slightly under the radar in the same team as @imVkohli & @ABdeVilliers17 !!! @RCBTweets looking the strongest I have seen them ... #IPL2021 @cricbuzz — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) April 18, 2021 × Both Kohli and Patidar were dismissed for a single-digit score but Maxwell looked on song from the word go. The Aussie showed his range of shots as he smashed the KKR bowlers all over the park. In the process, he also became the highest run-scorer (holder of the Orange cap) in IPL 2021. Ridiculous @Gmaxi_32 !!! — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) April 18, 2021 × Following Maxwell’s knock, AB de Villiers raced to another half-century in IPL as he whacked an unbeaten 76 off 34 to help RCB post a mammoth 205 runs on the board. So far, KKR have won one and lost one while RCB have witnessed an unbeaten start in IPL 2021.

Michael Vaughan makes big call on 'slightly under the radar' Glenn Maxwell in IPL 2021

<p class="MsoNormal">The Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa, Nathi Mthethwa has threatened to ban crisis riddled Cricket South Africa (CSA) as he told the members council of CSA that they have left him with no choice to invoke his powers.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The development comes a day after the CSA members council, which has 14 affiliate&nbsp;presidents, voted against amendments in the Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) in a bid to allow restructuring of administration, majority independent board and chairperson. Notably, the members’ council is Cricket South Africa’s highest decision-making body.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Minister Mthethwa has expressed his disappointment at the failure of the CSA delegates to adopt the revised MOI‚” reads Mthethwa’s statement.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The revised MOI that the affiliates decided against adopting‚ constituted an agreement between the CSA Members Council and the Interim Board.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-378258" hreflang="en">From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Accordingly‚ any failure to ratify such an agreement entered into by a duly authorised Members Council representative can only be interpreted as acting in bad faith.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“This turn of events‚ taking place at the back of several missed opportunities by the Members Council‚ has left the Minister with no further option but to exercise his rights in terms of section 13(5) of the Sports Act.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“To this end‚ the Minister will be taking the necessary steps required to exercise his rights in terms of the law prescripts next week.”<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Even the CSA interim board, appointed by Mthethwa in October and incorporated in November, also released a statement and expressed their disappointment.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“These proposed changes would be in line with the Nicholson Report and good corporate governance‚” reads the CSA interim board statement.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The Interim Board (IB) has held over the past few months several consultative sessions with the Members’ Council.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“In addition‚ Professor Michael Katz has also consulted and provided legal advice to the Members’ Council on the proposed amendments.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Disappointingly‚ the Members’ Council voted not to accept the amendments to the MOI which would have steered CSA on a new path and restored confidence with its stakeholders.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Despite the IB requesting transparency‚ the Members’ Council insisted on a secret ballot.” CSA interim board chairperson Dr Stavros Nicolaou was quoted as saying in the same statement:<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“What happened today was extremely disappointing and certainly not in the best interests of cricket.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-overtakes-ms-dhoni-to-become-indian-with-most-number-of-sixes-in-ipl-378293" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma overtakes MS Dhoni to become Indian with most number of sixes in IPL</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“A minority of the Members’ Council have yet again shown itself to place self-preservation ahead of the interests of the game and indeed‚ the national interest.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“This minority is determined to hold the game - and the country - hostage.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“It has been aided and abetted by Sascoc‚ whose intervention in the CSA SGM today was totally unacceptable and indeed appeared orchestrated‚” said Nicolaou.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">He added: “Fortunately‚ members of the media were present at the SGM to ensure the public will be informed as to what happened today.”<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Nicolaou went on to say that “the Interim Board is in discussion with the Minister about the way forward for cricket in South Africa.”<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The CSA members council is expected to release a statement as well. Under Section 13(5) of the Sports Act, the Minister can give order to his department from funding the CSA and expel the recognition by Sport and Recreation South Africa.<o:p></o:p></p>


The Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa, Nathi Mthethwa has threatened to ban crisis riddled Cricket South Africa (CSA) as he told the members council of CSA that they have left him with no choice to invoke his powers.

The Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa, Nathi Mthethwa has threatened to ban crisis riddled Cricket South Africa (CSA) as he told the members council of CSA that they have left him with no choice to invoke his powers. The development comes a day after the CSA members council, which has 14 affiliate presidents, voted against amendments in the Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) in a bid to allow restructuring of administration, majority independent board and chairperson. Notably, the members’ council is Cricket South Africa’s highest decision-making body. “Minister Mthethwa has expressed his disappointment at the failure of the CSA delegates to adopt the revised MOI‚” reads Mthethwa’s statement. “The revised MOI that the affiliates decided against adopting‚ constituted an agreement between the CSA Members Council and the Interim Board. ALSO READ: From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols “Accordingly‚ any failure to ratify such an agreement entered into by a duly authorised Members Council representative can only be interpreted as acting in bad faith. “This turn of events‚ taking place at the back of several missed opportunities by the Members Council‚ has left the Minister with no further option but to exercise his rights in terms of section 13(5) of the Sports Act. “To this end‚ the Minister will be taking the necessary steps required to exercise his rights in terms of the law prescripts next week.” Even the CSA interim board, appointed by Mthethwa in October and incorporated in November, also released a statement and expressed their disappointment. “These proposed changes would be in line with the Nicholson Report and good corporate governance‚” reads the CSA interim board statement. “The Interim Board (IB) has held over the past few months several consultative sessions with the Members’ Council. “In addition‚ Professor Michael Katz has also consulted and provided legal advice to the Members’ Council on the proposed amendments. “Disappointingly‚ the Members’ Council voted not to accept the amendments to the MOI which would have steered CSA on a new path and restored confidence with its stakeholders. “Despite the IB requesting transparency‚ the Members’ Council insisted on a secret ballot.” CSA interim board chairperson Dr Stavros Nicolaou was quoted as saying in the same statement: “What happened today was extremely disappointing and certainly not in the best interests of cricket. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma overtakes MS Dhoni to become Indian with most number of sixes in IPL “A minority of the Members’ Council have yet again shown itself to place self-preservation ahead of the interests of the game and indeed‚ the national interest. “This minority is determined to hold the game - and the country - hostage. “It has been aided and abetted by Sascoc‚ whose intervention in the CSA SGM today was totally unacceptable and indeed appeared orchestrated‚” said Nicolaou. He added: “Fortunately‚ members of the media were present at the SGM to ensure the public will be informed as to what happened today.” Nicolaou went on to say that “the Interim Board is in discussion with the Minister about the way forward for cricket in South Africa.” The CSA members council is expected to release a statement as well. Under Section 13(5) of the Sports Act, the Minister can give order to his department from funding the CSA and expel the recognition by Sport and Recreation South Africa.

South Africa's minister of sport threatens to ban cricket in SA

<p class="MsoNormal">Former India cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has been left unimpressed by the Sunrisers Hyderabad team selection in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Manjrekar expressed his disappointment after Hyderabad crumbled in the 151-run chase against MI and fell short by 13 runs despite a blistering start by openers.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Manjrekar took a swipe at the SRH middle order as he said the team playing Abhishek Sharma, Virat Singh and Abdul Samad together don’t deserve to win. The likes of Virat, Abhishek and Samad could manage just 11, 2 and 7 respectively which led to a middle-order collapse for SRH.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Sorry to say, but anyone that picks Abhishek Sharma, Virat Singh and Abdul Samad all together in one playing XI does not deserve to win," Manjrekar tweeted.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-vvs-laxman-reveals-why-t-natarajan-missed-mumbai-indians-match-378363" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: VVS Laxman reveals why T Natarajan missed Mumbai Indians match</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sorry to say, but anyone that picks Abhishek Sharma, Virat Singh and Abdul Samad all together in one playing XI does not deserve to win.</p>
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1383476062705754114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While Virat, who made his IPL debut, and Abhishek struggled to middle the ball, Samad was caught up with the pressure wave and ended up getting dismissed for 7. Manjrekar has even suggested SRH to play Kedar Jadhav over the inexperienced batsmen.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai Indians bowlers hunted the inexperienced SRH middle order down with the likes of Bumrah, Rahul Chahar and Trent Boult starring with the ball.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-best-boult-lauds-jasprit-bumrah-after-splendid-show-in-death-overs-vs-srh-378372" hreflang="en">'One of the best': Boult lauds Jasprit Bumrah after splendid show in death overs vs SRH</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Hyderabad outfit lose eight wickets for 47 runs and were bundled out for 137. With the win, Mumbai Indians now have four points in three matches after losing their IPL 2021 opener against RCB.<o:p></o:p></p>


Former India cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has been left unimpressed by the Sunrisers Hyderabad team selection in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Former India cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has been left unimpressed by the Sunrisers Hyderabad team selection in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Manjrekar expressed his disappointment after Hyderabad crumbled in the 151-run chase against MI and fell short by 13 runs despite a blistering start by openers. Manjrekar took a swipe at the SRH middle order as he said the team playing Abhishek Sharma, Virat Singh and Abdul Samad together don’t deserve to win. The likes of Virat, Abhishek and Samad could manage just 11, 2 and 7 respectively which led to a middle-order collapse for SRH. "Sorry to say, but anyone that picks Abhishek Sharma, Virat Singh and Abdul Samad all together in one playing XI does not deserve to win," Manjrekar tweeted. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: VVS Laxman reveals why T Natarajan missed Mumbai Indians match Sorry to say, but anyone that picks Abhishek Sharma, Virat Singh and Abdul Samad all together in one playing XI does not deserve to win. — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) April 17, 2021 × While Virat, who made his IPL debut, and Abhishek struggled to middle the ball, Samad was caught up with the pressure wave and ended up getting dismissed for 7. Manjrekar has even suggested SRH to play Kedar Jadhav over the inexperienced batsmen. Mumbai Indians bowlers hunted the inexperienced SRH middle order down with the likes of Bumrah, Rahul Chahar and Trent Boult starring with the ball. ALSO READ: 'One of the best': Boult lauds Jasprit Bumrah after splendid show in death overs vs SRH The Hyderabad outfit lose eight wickets for 47 runs and were bundled out for 137. With the win, Mumbai Indians now have four points in three matches after losing their IPL 2021 opener against RCB.

'Does not deserve to win': Sanjay Manjrekar left unimpressed by Hyderabad's team combination vs Mumbai

<p class="MsoNormal">Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are all set to lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. While RCB have won both their matches in IPL 2021, KKR have won one and lost one in the tournament so far.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">RCB would be looking to continue their winning run in IPL 2021 whereas KKR would be itching to bounce back after choking against Mumbai Indians in their last match.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Chennai has offered assistance to spin and slower deliveries and with the match set to be played in the afternoon, both KKR and RCB could rely on their spin options more than the pacers.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-head-to-head-stats-chennai-weather-forecast-pitch-report-all-you-need-to-know-378360" hreflang="en">RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai weather forecast, pitch report - All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Here's all you need to know about Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2021 match:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Where is the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders taking place?<o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">What time does the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin?<o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begins at 3:30 PM IST on Saturday, April 17.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-vvs-laxman-reveals-why-t-natarajan-missed-mumbai-indians-match-378363" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: VVS Laxman reveals why T Natarajan missed Mumbai Indians match</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Where and how to watch live coverage and live streaming&nbsp;of the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders?<o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between MI vs SRH will be available on Hotstar.<o:p></o:p></p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are all set to lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are all set to lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. While RCB have won both their matches in IPL 2021, KKR have won one and lost one in the tournament so far. RCB would be looking to continue their winning run in IPL 2021 whereas KKR would be itching to bounce back after choking against Mumbai Indians in their last match. Chennai has offered assistance to spin and slower deliveries and with the match set to be played in the afternoon, both KKR and RCB could rely on their spin options more than the pacers. ALSO READ: RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai weather forecast, pitch report - All you need to know Here's all you need to know about Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2021 match: Where is the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders taking place? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. What time does the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begins at 3:30 PM IST on Saturday, April 17. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: VVS Laxman reveals why T Natarajan missed Mumbai Indians match Where and how to watch live coverage and live streaming of the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between MI vs SRH will be available on Hotstar.

RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021, Live Streaming: How to watch Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders online?

<p class="MsoNormal">Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming had special words for skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni following his 200th appearance for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Fleming labelled Dhoni as the ‘heartbeat’ of CSK while saying his longevity and desire to do well for the team are to be appreciated. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dhoni has been leading Chennai Super Kings since the inaugural edition of IPL in 2008. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"His longevity has to be mentioned and appreciated...to play 200 games and still have a desire to do well is a testament to his attitude towards the game and franchise," Fleming said after CSK beat Punjab Kings by six wickets win in the ongoing IPL here on Friday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I think the franchise has grown and MS has grown with it, so it is a great relationship and great fun," the former New Zealand skipper added.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-selects-9-venues-for-icc-t20-world-cup-2021-in-india-reports-378114" hreflang="en">BCCI selects 9 venues for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in India: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Terming Dhoni the heartbeat of CSK, Fleming said, "He is the heartbeat of CSK, there's no doubt about it. Whether it's performance, guidance or leadership, you run out of things to say about him."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The former New Zealand captain was impressed by the team’s hunger to bounce back after the defeat in their IPL 2021 opener while heaping praise on Man of the Match Deepak Chahar for his figures of 4 for 13 in four overs. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Really impressed with the way he bounced back after the first game. Without a doubt, when Deepak gets a little bit of swing and a little bit of movement, he is one of the finest around. His ability to swing the ball is one. But his control and skill set is also very high.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"The key is keeping him simple in his plans and just operating in and around the stumps. He is very effective when the ball swings. A great bounce back from a below-par performance in the first game."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-dhoni-to-kohli-highest-paid-players-with-mind-boggling-salaries-in-ipl-2021-377532" hreflang="en">From Dhoni to Kohli: Highest-paid players with mind-boggling salaries in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The CSK coach backed opener Ruturaj Gaikwad despite the batsman not being able to get going for a second straight match.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Fleming further backed opener Ruturaj Gaikwad after the youngster endured a shaky start in the 14th edition of the tournament.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I am happy with the balance we have got in the team. Ruturaj (Gaikwad) is a fine player. He got a good ball in the first match and very difficult conditions today. It wasn't a 220-run wicket today. It was much different.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Ruturaj was a player we showed faith in last year, and his talent came through. Our philosophy when we pick players and put them in the team is to back them. This combination (Ruturaj-Faf du Plessis) is simply that," he added.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">CSK next play Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2021, at the Wankhede in Mumbai on Monday.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming had special words for skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni following his 200th appearance for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming had special words for skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni following his 200th appearance for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Fleming labelled Dhoni as the ‘heartbeat’ of CSK while saying his longevity and desire to do well for the team are to be appreciated. Dhoni has been leading Chennai Super Kings since the inaugural edition of IPL in 2008. "His longevity has to be mentioned and appreciated...to play 200 games and still have a desire to do well is a testament to his attitude towards the game and franchise," Fleming said after CSK beat Punjab Kings by six wickets win in the ongoing IPL here on Friday. "I think the franchise has grown and MS has grown with it, so it is a great relationship and great fun," the former New Zealand skipper added. ALSO READ: BCCI selects 9 venues for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in India: Reports Terming Dhoni the heartbeat of CSK, Fleming said, "He is the heartbeat of CSK, there's no doubt about it. Whether it's performance, guidance or leadership, you run out of things to say about him." The former New Zealand captain was impressed by the team’s hunger to bounce back after the defeat in their IPL 2021 opener while heaping praise on Man of the Match Deepak Chahar for his figures of 4 for 13 in four overs. "Really impressed with the way he bounced back after the first game. Without a doubt, when Deepak gets a little bit of swing and a little bit of movement, he is one of the finest around. His ability to swing the ball is one. But his control and skill set is also very high. "The key is keeping him simple in his plans and just operating in and around the stumps. He is very effective when the ball swings. A great bounce back from a below-par performance in the first game." IN PICS | From Dhoni to Kohli: Highest-paid players with mind-boggling salaries in IPL 2021 The CSK coach backed opener Ruturaj Gaikwad despite the batsman not being able to get going for a second straight match. Fleming further backed opener Ruturaj Gaikwad after the youngster endured a shaky start in the 14th edition of the tournament. "I am happy with the balance we have got in the team. Ruturaj (Gaikwad) is a fine player. He got a good ball in the first match and very difficult conditions today. It wasn't a 220-run wicket today. It was much different. "Ruturaj was a player we showed faith in last year, and his talent came through. Our philosophy when we pick players and put them in the team is to back them. This combination (Ruturaj-Faf du Plessis) is simply that," he added. CSK next play Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2021, at the Wankhede in Mumbai on Monday. ×

'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL

<p class="MsoNormal">The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday held its seventh Apex Council meeting virtually as the members shortlisted nine venues for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India in October-November.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">As many as nine venues have been selected for the T20 World Cup and the state cricket authorities have been asked to continue preparing for the marquee event and a final call could only be taken closer to the T20 tournament. Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Dharamsala, Ahmedabad and Lucknow have reportedly been picked by the BCCI Apex Council for the T20 World Cup.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"The nine venues have been informed and it was again discussed that preparations should continue for the showpiece event with an eye on the COVID-19 situation and a call will only be taken closer to the event. It is too early to imagine what can or will happen in October-November with regards to the coronavirus situation. But preparations shall be on," the source privy to the development told ANI.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-field-teams-for-2028-los-angeles-olympics-womens-team-to-play-in-2022-cwg-378111" hreflang="en">BCCI to field teams for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, women's team to play in 2022 CWG</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Asked about the visa of players participating in the T20 World Cup, the source said: "Yes, all participants will get visas." <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Asked about India's participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the source said there were positive discussions on the matter and it is about taking one step at a time. Furthermore, the BCCI gave full assurance over visas for the Pakistan cricket team and its media for the T20 World Cup.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The domestic season was also expected to kick-start from September but the ‘wait and watch’ policy has been adopted in the matter as the second wave of COVID-19 continues to hit the country hard.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-to-return-to-international-cricket-mark-boucher-says-talks-still-very-much-open-377989" hreflang="en">AB de Villiers to return to international cricket? Mark Boucher says talks 'still very much open'</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"There were discussions on the domestic calendar as well as the BCCI is very serious about it and we are looking at September to kickstart the season with the Mushtaq Ali and then the 50-over and days format, but then have to see how things pan out. You cannot guess the future in these circumstances," the source said.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><em>(With ANI inputs)</em></p>

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday held its seventh Apex Council meeting virtually as the members shortlisted nine venues for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India in October-November.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday held its seventh Apex Council meeting virtually as the members shortlisted nine venues for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India in October-November. As many as nine venues have been selected for the T20 World Cup and the state cricket authorities have been asked to continue preparing for the marquee event and a final call could only be taken closer to the T20 tournament. Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Dharamsala, Ahmedabad and Lucknow have reportedly been picked by the BCCI Apex Council for the T20 World Cup. "The nine venues have been informed and it was again discussed that preparations should continue for the showpiece event with an eye on the COVID-19 situation and a call will only be taken closer to the event. It is too early to imagine what can or will happen in October-November with regards to the coronavirus situation. But preparations shall be on," the source privy to the development told ANI. ALSO READ: BCCI to field teams for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, women's team to play in 2022 CWG Asked about the visa of players participating in the T20 World Cup, the source said: "Yes, all participants will get visas." Asked about India's participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the source said there were positive discussions on the matter and it is about taking one step at a time. Furthermore, the BCCI gave full assurance over visas for the Pakistan cricket team and its media for the T20 World Cup. The domestic season was also expected to kick-start from September but the ‘wait and watch’ policy has been adopted in the matter as the second wave of COVID-19 continues to hit the country hard. ALSO READ: AB de Villiers to return to international cricket? Mark Boucher says talks 'still very much open' "There were discussions on the domestic calendar as well as the BCCI is very serious about it and we are looking at September to kickstart the season with the Mushtaq Ali and then the 50-over and days format, but then have to see how things pan out. You cannot guess the future in these circumstances," the source said. (With ANI inputs) ×

BCCI selects 9 venues for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in India: Reports

<p class="MsoNormal">The BCCI Apex Council has decided to field both men’s and women’s teams at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics if the sport is included in the Games. The Indian women’s cricket team will also participate in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Apex Council, after meeting virtually on Friday, further decided that the women’s team led by Mithali Raj and Harmanpreet Kaur will also fly to Australia at the end of 2021 followed by the New Zealand tour which will precede the Women ODI World Cup.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"The women's team will be playing in the Birmingham CWG. If finally, cricket is a part of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, then both men and women's team will take part. This has been decided in principle," a senior BCCI functionary privy to developments of the day told PTI on conditions of anonymity.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">A camp is also set to take place before the three-team Women’s T20 Challenge and after the exhibition event, the squad will fly to England for its full-fledged tour.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biden-backs-japan-pm-on-holding-safe-and-secure-olympic-games-378108" hreflang="en">Biden backs Japan PM on holding 'safe and secure' Olympic Games</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"The girls will play a full series in England. Once they come back, West Indies or Proteas women will again come for bilateral series.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Once that's over, the team will be travelling to Australia for a white ball series and then will play another series in New Zealand. The New Zealand bilateral (or tri-nation series) will be a pre-cursor to the ODI World Cup," he said.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-to-return-to-international-cricket-mark-boucher-says-talks-still-very-much-open-377989" hreflang="en">AB de Villiers to return to international cricket? Mark Boucher says talks 'still very much open'</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, no concrete decision could be taken on domestic cricket in India given the situation surrounding COVID-19 in the country. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Obviously, we plan to hold the Ranji Trophy and all the tournaments in order but you can't escape the situation. The compensation package will also be worked out as it has been approved by the general body in January."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><em>(With PTI inputs)</em></p>

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The BCCI Apex Council has decided to field both men’s and women’s teams at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics if the sport is included in the Games. The Indian women’s cricket team will also participate in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

The BCCI Apex Council has decided to field both men’s and women’s teams at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics if the sport is included in the Games. The Indian women’s cricket team will also participate in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. The Apex Council, after meeting virtually on Friday, further decided that the women’s team led by Mithali Raj and Harmanpreet Kaur will also fly to Australia at the end of 2021 followed by the New Zealand tour which will precede the Women ODI World Cup. "The women's team will be playing in the Birmingham CWG. If finally, cricket is a part of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, then both men and women's team will take part. This has been decided in principle," a senior BCCI functionary privy to developments of the day told PTI on conditions of anonymity. A camp is also set to take place before the three-team Women’s T20 Challenge and after the exhibition event, the squad will fly to England for its full-fledged tour. ALSO READ: Biden backs Japan PM on holding 'safe and secure' Olympic Games "The girls will play a full series in England. Once they come back, West Indies or Proteas women will again come for bilateral series. Once that's over, the team will be travelling to Australia for a white ball series and then will play another series in New Zealand. The New Zealand bilateral (or tri-nation series) will be a pre-cursor to the ODI World Cup," he said. ALSO READ: AB de Villiers to return to international cricket? Mark Boucher says talks 'still very much open' However, no concrete decision could be taken on domestic cricket in India given the situation surrounding COVID-19 in the country. "Obviously, we plan to hold the Ranji Trophy and all the tournaments in order but you can't escape the situation. The compensation package will also be worked out as it has been approved by the general body in January." (With PTI inputs) ×

BCCI to field teams for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, women's team to play in 2022 CWG

<p class="MsoNormal">Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari is currently plying his trade for County club Warwickshire as a short-term cover for Pieter Malan. While Vihari was one of the heroes for India in the Test series against Australia, he ended up tearing his hamstring and was ruled out of the series against England as well. Vihari went unsold in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction but was roped in by Warwickshire.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Vihari, who has been preparing for India’s upcoming tour of England, took a blinder of a catch at mid-wicket to dismiss Steven Mullaney for 31. While Mullaney pulled a shorter delivery towards the cow corner, Vihari was alert at the edge of the 30-yard-circle and jumped to complete the one-handed stunner.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravindra-jadeja-considered-for-grade-a-contract-didnt-get-approval-reports-378172" hreflang="en">Ravindra Jadeja considered for Grade A+ contract, didn't get approval: Reports</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Watch the stunning catch by Hanuma Vihari here:</h2>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝗩𝗜𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗜!<br />
<br />
WHAT A CATCH. 🙌<br />
<br />
Match Centre 🖥 <a href="https://t.co/0efkMHnNAw">https://t.co/0efkMHnNAw</a><br />
<br />
🐻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YouBears?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YouBears</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NOTvWAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NOTvWAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/N2y9LC101Y">pic.twitter.com/N2y9LC101Y</a></p>
— Warwickshire CCC 🏏 (@WarwickshireCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarwickshireCCC/status/1382690841232343041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian batsman is part of a strong Warwickshire squad featuring the likes of Dom Sibley, Olly Stone and former England all-rounder Tim Bresnan. Vihari, with the bat, was dismissed for a 23-ball duck but made contributions in the field.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-selects-9-venues-for-icc-t20-world-cup-2021-in-india-reports-378114" hreflang="en">BCCI selects 9 venues for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in India: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Vihari has been one of the key players for Team India in away conditions. While the batsman is yet to play a home Test match, Vihari has played a pivotal role in India’s tours of Australia and West Indies. After impressing in two tours of Australia, a lot of eyeballs would be on Vihari when India later tour England for the five-match Test series.</p>

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Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari is currently plying his trade for County club Warwickshire as a short-term cover for Pieter Malan. While Vihari was one of the heroes for India in the Test series against Australia, he ended up tearing his hamstring and was ruled out of the series against England as well.

Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari is currently plying his trade for County club Warwickshire as a short-term cover for Pieter Malan. While Vihari was one of the heroes for India in the Test series against Australia, he ended up tearing his hamstring and was ruled out of the series against England as well. Vihari went unsold in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction but was roped in by Warwickshire. Vihari, who has been preparing for India’s upcoming tour of England, took a blinder of a catch at mid-wicket to dismiss Steven Mullaney for 31. While Mullaney pulled a shorter delivery towards the cow corner, Vihari was alert at the edge of the 30-yard-circle and jumped to complete the one-handed stunner. ALSO READ: Ravindra Jadeja considered for Grade A+ contract, didn't get approval: Reports Watch the stunning catch by Hanuma Vihari here: 𝗩𝗜𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗜! WHAT A CATCH. 🙌 Match Centre 🖥 https://t.co/0efkMHnNAw 🐻#YouBears | #NOTvWAR pic.twitter.com/N2y9LC101Y — Warwickshire CCC 🏏 (@WarwickshireCCC) April 15, 2021 × The Indian batsman is part of a strong Warwickshire squad featuring the likes of Dom Sibley, Olly Stone and former England all-rounder Tim Bresnan. Vihari, with the bat, was dismissed for a 23-ball duck but made contributions in the field. ALSO READ: BCCI selects 9 venues for ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in India: Reports Vihari has been one of the key players for Team India in away conditions. While the batsman is yet to play a home Test match, Vihari has played a pivotal role in India’s tours of Australia and West Indies. After impressing in two tours of Australia, a lot of eyeballs would be on Vihari when India later tour England for the five-match Test series. ×

Watch: India's Hanuma Vihari takes stunning catch for Warwickshire in County Championship

<p>The JSW and GMR co-owned franchise Delhi Capitals, who went down fighting against Rajasthan Royals on Thursday, will be looking to bounce back when they take on Punjab Kings in their third encounter of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the&nbsp;Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.</p>

<p>While speaking about taking on the Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals' fast bowler&nbsp;Anrich Nortje expressed that the Delhi franchise cannot underestimate any team in the IPL 2021, "There's no team that's got a bad team so every side is really competitive, and it can come off for anyone on any day. We are definitely not going to underestimate anyone and hopefully, we can bring our A-game."</p>

<p>When asked about the make-up of the Delhi Capitals squad, the South African said, "We are unfortunately missing Shreyas (Iyer), but we definitely have a great combination of players. We have got a great bowling line-up as well. It's just about picking the right team on the right wicket and conditions. We definitely have a lot of options in our bowling line-up, which is really nice to have and hopefully we can make the best of the conditions and the different players that we have got."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">📽️ | <a href="https://twitter.com/RickyPonting?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RickyPonting</a>'s Dressing Room speech after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvDC</a> 👉🏻 Leave it to the Boss to lift up the spirits of the DC boys with all the positives from an absolute thriller 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/JRAkkSssE7">pic.twitter.com/JRAkkSssE7</a></p>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1383359707927121922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-host-broadcaster-enjoy-blockbuster-viewership-for-opening-match-fails-to-break-ipl-2020-record-378133" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record</a></strong></p>

<p>Nortje had to spend an extended period of time in quarantine due to a false-positive result for COVID-19. However, the fast bowler re-joined the camp on 16 April 2021 after testing negative thrice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ten days in the room was quite a lot for me. It was nice to get out, run around and bowl a bit. I really enjoyed it and hopefully, I can build it up from here on," signed off&nbsp;Nortje&nbsp;</p>

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The JSW and GMR co-owned franchise Delhi Capitals, who went down fighting against Rajasthan Royals on Thursday, will be looking to bounce back when they take on Punjab Kings in their third encounter of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.

The JSW and GMR co-owned franchise Delhi Capitals, who went down fighting against Rajasthan Royals on Thursday, will be looking to bounce back when they take on Punjab Kings in their third encounter of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. While speaking about taking on the Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals' fast bowler Anrich Nortje expressed that the Delhi franchise cannot underestimate any team in the IPL 2021, "There's no team that's got a bad team so every side is really competitive, and it can come off for anyone on any day. We are definitely not going to underestimate anyone and hopefully, we can bring our A-game." When asked about the make-up of the Delhi Capitals squad, the South African said, "We are unfortunately missing Shreyas (Iyer), but we definitely have a great combination of players. We have got a great bowling line-up as well. It's just about picking the right team on the right wicket and conditions. We definitely have a lot of options in our bowling line-up, which is really nice to have and hopefully we can make the best of the conditions and the different players that we have got." 📽️ | @RickyPonting's Dressing Room speech after #RRvDC 👉🏻 Leave it to the Boss to lift up the spirits of the DC boys with all the positives from an absolute thriller 💙#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/JRAkkSssE7 — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 17, 2021 × ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record Nortje had to spend an extended period of time in quarantine due to a false-positive result for COVID-19. However, the fast bowler re-joined the camp on 16 April 2021 after testing negative thrice. "Ten days in the room was quite a lot for me. It was nice to get out, run around and bowl a bit. I really enjoyed it and hopefully, I can build it up from here on," signed off Nortje ×

IPL 2021: Hoping to bring our A-game against Punjab Kings, says Anrich Nortje

<p class="MsoNormal">The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contract list for its players. While the list welcomed some new faces in the likes of Shubman Gill and Mohammad Siraj, others like Hardik Pandya received a promotion. However, ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja retained his Grade A contract and wasn’t named in the A+ category, which included the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">A+ category has an annual income of INR 7 crore whereas Grade A guarantees an annual salary of INR 5 crore. According to reports, there were talks of Jadeja being included in A+ category but the BCCI went against the proposal and kept the Saurashtra all-rounder in Grade A.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">According to Cricbuzz, the BCCI insiders have revealed that Jadeja was considered for the Grade A+ category. However, the report didn’t reveal why Jadeja wasn’t handed a promotion.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-such-a-great-talent-brian-lara-on-rcbs-devdutt-padikkal-378158" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Such a great talent': Brian Lara on RCB's Devdutt Padikkal</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">One of the reasons could be that Jadeja has missed plenty of international cricket due to injuries. While he missed a part of India’s tour of Australia, the all-rounder was completely ruled out of the home series against England.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Former Team India chief selector, MSK Prasad opined on the matter as he said the southpaw is a genuine contender for ICC Rankings and he can’t see any reason why he wasn’t included in A+ Grade. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbeat-flemings-special-praise-for-ms-dhoni-after-200th-csk-appearance-in-ipl-378124" hreflang="en">'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jadeja is a genuine A+ candidate. Those who play all formats and have good ICC rankings are included in the list. I cannot see any reason why he was not considered for A + Grade,” Prasad told Cricbuzz.<o:p></o:p></p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contract list for its players. While the list welcomed some new faces in the likes of Shubman Gill and Mohammad Siraj, others like Hardik Pandya received a promotion.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contract list for its players. While the list welcomed some new faces in the likes of Shubman Gill and Mohammad Siraj, others like Hardik Pandya received a promotion. However, ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja retained his Grade A contract and wasn’t named in the A+ category, which included the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah. A+ category has an annual income of INR 7 crore whereas Grade A guarantees an annual salary of INR 5 crore. According to reports, there were talks of Jadeja being included in A+ category but the BCCI went against the proposal and kept the Saurashtra all-rounder in Grade A. According to Cricbuzz, the BCCI insiders have revealed that Jadeja was considered for the Grade A+ category. However, the report didn’t reveal why Jadeja wasn’t handed a promotion. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Such a great talent': Brian Lara on RCB's Devdutt Padikkal One of the reasons could be that Jadeja has missed plenty of international cricket due to injuries. While he missed a part of India’s tour of Australia, the all-rounder was completely ruled out of the home series against England. Former Team India chief selector, MSK Prasad opined on the matter as he said the southpaw is a genuine contender for ICC Rankings and he can’t see any reason why he wasn’t included in A+ Grade. ALSO READ: 'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL “Jadeja is a genuine A+ candidate. Those who play all formats and have good ICC rankings are included in the list. I cannot see any reason why he was not considered for A + Grade,” Prasad told Cricbuzz.

Ravindra Jadeja considered for Grade A+ contract, didn't get approval: Reports

<p class="MsoNormal">Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to take on Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday. While MI have lost and won one match each, SRH suffered defeat in their IPL 2021 opener.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">SRH would be desperate to win the contest and open their account in the IPL 2021 season. However, Mumbai Indians would be looking to continue their winning momentum against SRH. The defending champions outclassed Kolkata Knight Riders in what was a brilliant last five-over tactical masterclass by MI.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs MI, head-to-head stats:</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Talking about head-to-head stats between SRH and MI matches, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit has won 19 matches as compared to Sunrisers Hyderabad’ 10 in 29 matches between the two sides. Given Mumbai’s dominance in IPL, the stat doesn’t come as surprise. The David Warner-led side would be looking to break the pattern and get one over MI on Saturday.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-host-broadcaster-enjoy-blockbuster-viewership-for-opening-match-fails-to-break-ipl-2020-record-378133" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs MI - Chennai pitch report and weather forecast</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Chennai has offered slow and sticky tracks so far in IPL 2021 and both teams would be wary of the conditions. While pacers have picked up more wickets in Chennai in IPL 2021, spinners and slower deliveries have dominated the proceedings the most. A score of 170 could be a winning total. There are no chances of rain.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbeat-flemings-special-praise-for-ms-dhoni-after-200th-csk-appearance-in-ipl-378124" hreflang="en">'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL</a></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>SRH vs MI: Approaching milestones</o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Moreover, a few players are approaching landmarks and could take the center stage by storm:<o:p></o:p></p>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">David Warner is one half-century away from completing 50 half-centuries in IPL and if he achieves the feat against MI then he would be the first player to do so.<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Warner needs five sixes to complete 200 sixes in IPL.<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Kieron Pollard needs two sixes to complete 200 sixes in IPL.<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Manish Pandey needs two sixes to complete 100 sixes in IPL.<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Krunal Pandya and Shahbaz Nadeen need two wickets each to complete 500 wickets in IPL.</li>
</ul>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to take on Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are all set to take on Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday. While MI have lost and won one match each, SRH suffered defeat in their IPL 2021 opener. SRH would be desperate to win the contest and open their account in the IPL 2021 season. However, Mumbai Indians would be looking to continue their winning momentum against SRH. The defending champions outclassed Kolkata Knight Riders in what was a brilliant last five-over tactical masterclass by MI. SRH vs MI, head-to-head stats: Talking about head-to-head stats between SRH and MI matches, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit has won 19 matches as compared to Sunrisers Hyderabad’ 10 in 29 matches between the two sides. Given Mumbai’s dominance in IPL, the stat doesn’t come as surprise. The David Warner-led side would be looking to break the pattern and get one over MI on Saturday. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record SRH vs MI - Chennai pitch report and weather forecast Chennai has offered slow and sticky tracks so far in IPL 2021 and both teams would be wary of the conditions. While pacers have picked up more wickets in Chennai in IPL 2021, spinners and slower deliveries have dominated the proceedings the most. A score of 170 could be a winning total. There are no chances of rain. ALSO READ: 'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL SRH vs MI: Approaching milestones Moreover, a few players are approaching landmarks and could take the center stage by storm: David Warner is one half-century away from completing 50 half-centuries in IPL and if he achieves the feat against MI then he would be the first player to do so. Warner needs five sixes to complete 200 sixes in IPL. Kieron Pollard needs two sixes to complete 200 sixes in IPL. Manish Pandey needs two sixes to complete 100 sixes in IPL. Krunal Pandya and Shahbaz Nadeen need two wickets each to complete 500 wickets in IPL. ×

MI vs SRH, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai pitch report, weather forecast - All you need to know

<p class="MsoNormal">The opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 fell short of the kind of viewership IPL 2020 season opener received, according to the latest BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) data. Nonetheless, it was a blockbuster opening match-day for the host broadcasters, Star India, in IPL 2021. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The IPL 2021 opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore, played on April 9, touched 9.7 billion minutes of consumption on Star India channels. The broadcaster further reached 323 million total impressions for the opening match of IPL 2021. However, the IPL 2020 match between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians had a record impression of 11.2 billion viewing minutes.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbeat-flemings-special-praise-for-ms-dhoni-after-200th-csk-appearance-in-ipl-378124" hreflang="en">'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL</a></strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore received a tremendous response, bigger than opening matches of all other IPL editions held previously other than Dream11 IPL 2020,” said Star India in a statement.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">According to BARC, IPL 2020 opening match was viewed by a humongous 158 million viewers, 21 per cent higher than 131 million viewers recorded in IPL 2019 opener.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">On OTT platform Disney + Hotstar, IPL 2021 opener peaked at 6.7 million whereas, in IPL 2020, it was 8.4 million.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-i-was-gonna-run-back-chris-morris-talks-about-sanju-samson-denying-single-against-punjab-kings-377966" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'I was gonna run back': Chris Morris talks about Sanju Samson denying single against Punjab Kings</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In 2019, 18 million viewers watched IPL final concurrently on digital platforms whereas last year, when the matches were held behind closed doors, the viewership ranged between four to six million on Disney+ Hotstar.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span>Meanwhile, the 15-21 age group has been the strongest base of viewership.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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The opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 fell short of the kind of viewership IPL 2020 season opener received, according to the latest BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) data.

The opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 fell short of the kind of viewership IPL 2020 season opener received, according to the latest BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) data. Nonetheless, it was a blockbuster opening match-day for the host broadcasters, Star India, in IPL 2021. The IPL 2021 opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore, played on April 9, touched 9.7 billion minutes of consumption on Star India channels. The broadcaster further reached 323 million total impressions for the opening match of IPL 2021. However, the IPL 2020 match between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians had a record impression of 11.2 billion viewing minutes. ALSO READ: 'Heartbeat': Fleming's special praise for MS Dhoni after 200th CSK appearance in IPL “The match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore received a tremendous response, bigger than opening matches of all other IPL editions held previously other than Dream11 IPL 2020,” said Star India in a statement. According to BARC, IPL 2020 opening match was viewed by a humongous 158 million viewers, 21 per cent higher than 131 million viewers recorded in IPL 2019 opener. On OTT platform Disney + Hotstar, IPL 2021 opener peaked at 6.7 million whereas, in IPL 2020, it was 8.4 million. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'I was gonna run back': Chris Morris talks about Sanju Samson denying single against Punjab Kings In 2019, 18 million viewers watched IPL final concurrently on digital platforms whereas last year, when the matches were held behind closed doors, the viewership ranged between four to six million on Disney+ Hotstar. Meanwhile, the 15-21 age group has been the strongest base of viewership. ×

IPL 2021: Host broadcaster enjoy blockbuster viewership for opening match, fails to break IPL 2020 record

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday suffered a crushing defeat to Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Mumbai as the Eoin Morgan-led team lost by 10 runs after cruising through the chase for 18 overs. KKR all-rounder Andre Russell reacted to the heartbreaking defeat while also backing owner and Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan’s tweet apologising to the fans.</p>

<p>KKR were superb with the ball as they restricted MI to 152, courtesy Andre Russell’s five-wicket-haul. Chasing 153, openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitched a 72-run stand as KKR looked comfortable with the modest chase. However, no other batsman&nbsp;managed to get to double digits as KKR slumped to a 10-run defeat.</p>

<p>Shah Rukh Khan took to Twitter to express his disappointment over the defeat and apologized to KKR fans for a poor outing with the bat.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-kolkata-knight-riders-choke-as-mumbai-indians-continue-dominance-377373" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders choke as Mumbai Indians continue dominance</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Disappointing performance. to say the least <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> apologies to all the fans!</p>
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/1382028536949600259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While Russell was fantastic with the ball, he failed to get into the groove with the bat and witnessed KKR go down to MI once again.</p>

<p>“Yeah, I support that Tweet but at the end of the day,&nbsp;the game of cricket… you are not sure until it’s over. I think we are still confident, we still played some good cricket and I am proud of the boys. You know, we are definitely disappointed but it’s not the end of the world, it’s only the second game and we are going to learn from it,” Russell said in the post-match press conference.</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-ruled-out-of-ipl-2021-with-a-finger-injury-377361" hreflang="en">Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury</a></strong></p>

<p>“I just think it’s a game of cricket. I have played hundreds of T20 games and I have seen games where teams cruise in on the driver’s seat and then suddenly lose a few wickets, and that’s what happened tonight. So, we definitely have to learn from this. We will look to make sure that who’s in, stays in and once we learn from all these mistakes we will definitely do better. I have trust and confidence in the boys,” he added.</p>

<p>KKR will next be in action against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 18 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday suffered a crushing defeat to Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Mumbai as the Eoin Morgan-led team lost by 10 runs after cruising through the chase for 18 overs.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday suffered a crushing defeat to Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Mumbai as the Eoin Morgan-led team lost by 10 runs after cruising through the chase for 18 overs. KKR all-rounder Andre Russell reacted to the heartbreaking defeat while also backing owner and Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan’s tweet apologising to the fans. KKR were superb with the ball as they restricted MI to 152, courtesy Andre Russell’s five-wicket-haul. Chasing 153, openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitched a 72-run stand as KKR looked comfortable with the modest chase. However, no other batsman managed to get to double digits as KKR slumped to a 10-run defeat. Shah Rukh Khan took to Twitter to express his disappointment over the defeat and apologized to KKR fans for a poor outing with the bat. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders choke as Mumbai Indians continue dominance Disappointing performance. to say the least @KKRiders apologies to all the fans! — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) April 13, 2021 × While Russell was fantastic with the ball, he failed to get into the groove with the bat and witnessed KKR go down to MI once again. “Yeah, I support that Tweet but at the end of the day, the game of cricket… you are not sure until it’s over. I think we are still confident, we still played some good cricket and I am proud of the boys. You know, we are definitely disappointed but it’s not the end of the world, it’s only the second game and we are going to learn from it,” Russell said in the post-match press conference. × ALSO READ: Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury “I just think it’s a game of cricket. I have played hundreds of T20 games and I have seen games where teams cruise in on the driver’s seat and then suddenly lose a few wickets, and that’s what happened tonight. So, we definitely have to learn from this. We will look to make sure that who’s in, stays in and once we learn from all these mistakes we will definitely do better. I have trust and confidence in the boys,” he added. KKR will next be in action against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 18 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat

<p class="MsoNormal">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended up choking in the final five overs of the match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to suffer a crushing 10-run defeat in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, after the defeat, questioned experienced campaigners Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik’s approach in the chase in what he termed as a “shameful” defeat for KKR.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Despite needing just 31 runs off the last 30 deliveries with six wickets in hand, KKR ended up losing the match by 10 runs and failed to finish the match despite dominating for 35 overs. Two of the famed finishers in the game, Russell and Karthik, got stuck in the middle and their failure to hit boundaries and rotate the strike led to a heartbreaking defeat.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While Russell scored 9 off 15 balls, Karthik was unbeaten on 8 off 11 balls. Sehwag opined that both Russell and Karthik wanted to stay there till the final ball but failed to finish the match.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-the-end-of-world-andre-russell-reacts-to-shah-rukh-khans-apology-tweet-after-mi-defeat-377454" hreflang="en">Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Eoin Morgan had given a statement that they will play that way (with positive intent) after the first game but it didn't look like that when Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik came in to bat. The way Russell and Karthik batted, it felt like they planned to take the game till the end and win it. But that didn’t happen. The batters who came before them – be it Shakib Al Hasan, Eoin Morgan, Shubman Gill or Nitish Rana – all of them played with positive intent,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Sehwag further said that either Rana or Gill should have finished the game for KKR.</p>

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<p>"Either Rana or Gill should have batted till the end. They had seen what had happened in the MI innings, despite getting off to a good start they could only manage 152," he said.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The likes of Rahul Chahar, Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult executed the plans to perfection and managed to restrict KKR to just 20 runs in last five overs to win the match for MI.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-gives-his-verdict-on-sanju-samsons-decision-to-refuse-morris-a-single-vs-pbks-377322" hreflang="en">Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Sehwag further took a jibe at KKR and said the Morgan-led outfit defined how to lose a game from a winning position while labeling it a “shameful defeat”.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Kolkata Knight Riders just lost the game which was almost won at one stage. When Russell came into bat, KKR needed 30 runs in 27-odd balls. Dinesh Karthik batted till the end but couldn’t win the game. That’s a shameful defeat,” he said.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The runs per ball difference wasn’t much except for the last couple of overs. We saw how to lose a game that is almost won. You hardly get any game where you are chasing 152 and you need to score 36-odd runs in 6 overs with 6-7 wickets in hand. In such scenarios, teams prefer to end the game quickly to improve their net run rate. But KKR failed to do that and hampered their net-run rate,” he added.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">KKR will next face Royal Challengers Bangalore on Sunday in Chennai.<o:p></o:p></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended up choking in the final five overs of the match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to suffer a crushing 10-run defeat in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended up choking in the final five overs of the match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to suffer a crushing 10-run defeat in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, after the defeat, questioned experienced campaigners Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik’s approach in the chase in what he termed as a “shameful” defeat for KKR. Despite needing just 31 runs off the last 30 deliveries with six wickets in hand, KKR ended up losing the match by 10 runs and failed to finish the match despite dominating for 35 overs. Two of the famed finishers in the game, Russell and Karthik, got stuck in the middle and their failure to hit boundaries and rotate the strike led to a heartbreaking defeat. While Russell scored 9 off 15 balls, Karthik was unbeaten on 8 off 11 balls. Sehwag opined that both Russell and Karthik wanted to stay there till the final ball but failed to finish the match. ALSO READ: Not the end of world: Andre Russell reacts to Shah Rukh Khan's apology tweet after MI defeat “Eoin Morgan had given a statement that they will play that way (with positive intent) after the first game but it didn't look like that when Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik came in to bat. The way Russell and Karthik batted, it felt like they planned to take the game till the end and win it. But that didn’t happen. The batters who came before them – be it Shakib Al Hasan, Eoin Morgan, Shubman Gill or Nitish Rana – all of them played with positive intent,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz. Sehwag further said that either Rana or Gill should have finished the game for KKR. × "Either Rana or Gill should have batted till the end. They had seen what had happened in the MI innings, despite getting off to a good start they could only manage 152," he said. The likes of Rahul Chahar, Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult executed the plans to perfection and managed to restrict KKR to just 20 runs in last five overs to win the match for MI. ALSO READ: Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS Sehwag further took a jibe at KKR and said the Morgan-led outfit defined how to lose a game from a winning position while labeling it a “shameful defeat”. “Kolkata Knight Riders just lost the game which was almost won at one stage. When Russell came into bat, KKR needed 30 runs in 27-odd balls. Dinesh Karthik batted till the end but couldn’t win the game. That’s a shameful defeat,” he said. “The runs per ball difference wasn’t much except for the last couple of overs. We saw how to lose a game that is almost won. You hardly get any game where you are chasing 152 and you need to score 36-odd runs in 6 overs with 6-7 wickets in hand. In such scenarios, teams prefer to end the game quickly to improve their net run rate. But KKR failed to do that and hampered their net-run rate,” he added. KKR will next face Royal Challengers Bangalore on Sunday in Chennai.

'Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse

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


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

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

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

<p>Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak has been banned from all cricket for eight years after he accepted five charges of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Streak was charged as a participant under the Code by virtue of his status as the coach of Zimbabwe from 2016 to 2018 and as the coach of various domestic teams.</p>

<h2>The charges are as follows:</h2>

<p>2.3.2 – disclosing inside information under both the ICC Code and various domestic Codes, in circumstances where he knew or should have known that such information may be used for betting purposes. In particular, he disclosed inside information in relation to matches in the 2018 Tri-Series involving Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Zimbabwe v Afghanistan series in 2018, the IPL 2018 and the APL 2018.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-dethrones-virat-kohli-as-no-1-odi-batsman-in-icc-rankings-377486" hreflang="en">Babar Azam dethrones Virat Kohli as no. 1 ODI batsman in ICC Rankings</a></strong></p>

<p>2.3.3 – directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any participant to breach the Code. In particular, he facilitated or attempted to facilitate the introduction of four different players, including a national captain, to someone he knew, or should have known, may have wanted to approach them to provide inside information for betting purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>2.4.2 – Failing to disclose the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefits that the participant knew or should have known was given to them to procure a breach of the Code or that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code including in relation to international matches, matches in the 2017 BPL, the 2018 Pakistan Super League, the 2018 IPL and the 2018 APL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Article 2.4.7 – obstructing or delaying an investigation, including concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant to that investigation and/or that may be evidence of or may lead to the discovery of evidence of corrupt conduct under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-pacer-anrich-nortje-tests-positive-for-covid-19-377494" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19</a></strong></p>

<p>Under the provisions of the Code, Streak chose to admit the charges and agreed the sanction with the ICC in lieu of an Anti-Corruption Tribunal hearing. He will be free to resume his involvement in the game on 28 March 2029.</p>

<p>Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Heath Streak is an experienced former international cricketer and national team coach, who had participated in numerous anti-corruption education sessions and was fully aware of his responsibilities under the Code.</p>

<p>“As a former captain and coach, he held a position of trust and owed a duty to uphold the integrity of the game. He breached the Code on several occasions, including facilitating the approach of four other players. At times, he also sought to obstruct and delay our investigation.</p>

<p>“The offences did not affect the outcomes of any relevant matches and Mr Streak has agreed to assist the ICC anti-corruption education programme for which we are grateful. He has also expressed his remorse and contrition and entered this agreed sanction decision to avoid the need for a full disciplinary process. The sanction reflects this cooperation.”</p>


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals and South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of DC’s second Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Nortje and Kagiso Rabada arrived in India on April 6 and were undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine. While Nortje came in with a negative report, he tested positive while undergoing quarantine.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Speaking to ANI, sources in the know of developments said that the pacer tested positive while undergoing quarantine. "He came in with a negative report, but has unfortunately tested positive now while undergoing quarantine," the source said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shameful-defeat-sehwag-questions-andre-russell-and-dinesh-karthiks-intent-after-kkr-collapse-377468" hreflang="en">'Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The BCCI SOP states that a member of the squad, who tests positive for the dreaded virus, must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or collection of the sample. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Nortje participated in the ODI series against Pakistan. After playing the first two ODIs, the Proteas pacer started his journey to IPL 2021.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals now have been dealt with a triple blow in IPL 2021. While regular skipper Shreyas Iyer was ruled out before the tournament started with a shoulder injury, all-rounder Axar Patel tested positive for COVID-19 followed by Nortje's positive report for the virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">(With ANI inputs)</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

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Delhi Capitals and South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of DC’s second Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

Ben Stokes ruled out of IPL 2021 with a finger injury

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


India A’s tour of England in 2021 has been postponed, after an agreement between the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

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

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

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