<p>Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has proposed that authorities change the ball manufacturer after a string of high-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where the balance between the ball and bat has gone for a toss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Routine scores in excess of 200 have become the norm with many arguing that BCCI replace the 'Kookaburra' white ball with the 'Duke' ball, used primarily in England, as it has a more pronounced seam.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If a manufacturer cannot produce a ball which can last for 50 overs, might as well change the manufacturer. There’s nothing wrong with changing the manufacturer. What is this compulsion with only using the Kookaburra?" Gambhir said on the <em>180 Not Out </em>podcast.</p>

<p>Gambhir's team was on the receiving end of the widening gap between the two departments of the game when KKR&nbsp;lost the match against Rajasthan Royals despite posting a massive 223-run total on board.&nbsp;</p>

<p>RR chasing the daunting target, were behind the eight-ball from the beginning but still managed to come back from the brink. Led by Jos Buttler, the Royals scored 96 runs in the last six overs, once again suggesting that bowlers had little room for error in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-tough-days-are-not-always-bad-gautam-gambhir-shares-heartfelt-post-after-kkr-lose-thriller-to-rr-712188"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: 'Tough days are not always bad' - Gautam Gambhir shares heartfelt post after KKR lose thriller to RR</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Support for Duke ball grows&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Commentator Harsha Bhogle also jumped in on the debate and batted for the usage of Duke balls to provide some sort of relief to the poor bowlers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I will reiterate this. We need greater balance between bat and ball and in a situation where the pitches aren't helping, the ball must do more in the air. How about a Duke ball, a ball with a more pronounced seam, that allows more lateral movement and ensures batters can't just hit through the line at will. Love to hear expert opinions on this," Bhogle wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I will reiterate this. We need greater balance between bat and ball and in a situation where the pitches aren't helping, the ball must do more in the air. How about a Duke ball, a ball with a more pronounced seam, that allows more lateral movement and ensures batters can't just…</p>
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<p>Despite being only 31 matches in, the highest score record in the tournament has been broken twice with the chasing teams also posting above 240+ scores and yet failing to win the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The use of two bouncers per over was introduced this year with the intent to give more authority to bowlers but it has also meant that teams are not bowling spinners as frequently as they did last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has proposed that authorities change the ball manufacturer after a string of high-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where the balance between the ball and bat has gone for a toss.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has proposed that authorities change the ball manufacturer after a string of high-scoring matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where the balance between the ball and bat has gone for a toss. Routine scores in excess of 200 have become the norm with many arguing that BCCI replace the 'Kookaburra' white ball with the 'Duke' ball, used primarily in England, as it has a more pronounced seam. "If a manufacturer cannot produce a ball which can last for 50 overs, might as well change the manufacturer. There’s nothing wrong with changing the manufacturer. What is this compulsion with only using the Kookaburra?" Gambhir said on the 180 Not Out podcast. Gambhir's team was on the receiving end of the widening gap between the two departments of the game when KKR lost the match against Rajasthan Royals despite posting a massive 223-run total on board. RR chasing the daunting target, were behind the eight-ball from the beginning but still managed to come back from the brink. Led by Jos Buttler, the Royals scored 96 runs in the last six overs, once again suggesting that bowlers had little room for error in the shortest format of the game. Also read | IPL 2024: 'Tough days are not always bad' - Gautam Gambhir shares heartfelt post after KKR lose thriller to RR Support for Duke ball grows Commentator Harsha Bhogle also jumped in on the debate and batted for the usage of Duke balls to provide some sort of relief to the poor bowlers. "I will reiterate this. We need greater balance between bat and ball and in a situation where the pitches aren't helping, the ball must do more in the air. How about a Duke ball, a ball with a more pronounced seam, that allows more lateral movement and ensures batters can't just hit through the line at will. Love to hear expert opinions on this," Bhogle wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). I will reiterate this. We need greater balance between bat and ball and in a situation where the pitches aren't helping, the ball must do more in the air. How about a Duke ball, a ball with a more pronounced seam, that allows more lateral movement and ensures batters can't just… — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) April 15, 2024 × Despite being only 31 matches in, the highest score record in the tournament has been broken twice with the chasing teams also posting above 240+ scores and yet failing to win the match. The use of two bouncers per over was introduced this year with the intent to give more authority to bowlers but it has also meant that teams are not bowling spinners as frequently as they did last year. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir urges changing ball manufacturer after high-scoring matches

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)&nbsp;mentor Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the criticism levelled against head coach Chandrakant Pandit for his 'militant style' coaching. Gambhir said his working relationship with Pandit had been good so far and that he had no clue why such things were said against him.</p>

<p>Former KKR all-rounder&nbsp;David Wiese recently said all was not right in the KKR dressing room during the team's struggles last season.&nbsp;Pandit was appointed the KKR coach after enjoying successful stints in Indian domestic circles, having won the Ranji Trophy with Mumbai, Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha. However, Wiese said Pandit's 'militant' style of coaching did not go down well with certain foreign players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have not heard about any criticism. It's been early days, and my working relationship with him has been really very good. Hopefully, it will continue that way," Gambhir was quoted as saying by <em>Times Now</em>.</p>

<p>"Whatever has been said, I have no clue about it. I think he has been pretty successful in first-class cricket, and that is the reason why he has got this opportunity. So far, it has been really good working with him," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-not-well-in-kkr-david-wiese-opens-up-on-chandu-pandits-militant-coaching-style-704822"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;All not well in KKR? David Wiese opens up on Chandu Pandit’s ‘militant’ coaching style</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What did Wiese allege?</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking on the&nbsp;<em>Hitman for Hire: A year in the life of a franchise cricketer&nbsp;</em>podcast, Wiese said the arrival of Pandit had changed the dynamics inside the dressing room.</p>

<p>"There were certain issues going on behind the scenes in the team. Guys weren't happy with certain things that were going on, and a lot of the times, it was a tough changing room. There was a new coach coming in and he liked to do things a certain way, and that didn't sit well with the players," said Wiese.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Guys were frustrated because a lot changed, and the coach brought in things that he thought would bring success. But as an overseas player, they sometimes don't sit well. He's known in India as a fairly militant type of coach, a strict disciplinarian," said Wiese.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-says-people-disappointed-after-he-hugged-gautam-gambhir-naveen-ul-haq-710138"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: Virat Kohli says people disappointed after he hugged Gautam Gambhir, Naveen-ul-Haq</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier this month, Punjab Kings batter Ashutosh Sharma also alleged that it was Pandit who curtailed his career from going forward after the pair had a falling out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I would go to the gym and retire to my hotel room. I was sinking into depression and no one told me what my fault was. A new coach had joined Madhya Pradesh and he had strong likes and dislikes and despite scoring 90 odd in 45 balls in a trial match, I was dropped from the team," Ashutosh said without naming the coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A job offer from Railways helped Ashutosh get his cricketing career back on track and he single-handedly powered the franchise to win against Gujarat Titans by smashing a 17-ball 31-run cameo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the criticism levelled against head coach Chandrakant Pandit for his 'militant style' coaching.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the criticism levelled against head coach Chandrakant Pandit for his 'militant style' coaching. Gambhir said his working relationship with Pandit had been good so far and that he had no clue why such things were said against him. Former KKR all-rounder David Wiese recently said all was not right in the KKR dressing room during the team's struggles last season. Pandit was appointed the KKR coach after enjoying successful stints in Indian domestic circles, having won the Ranji Trophy with Mumbai, Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha. However, Wiese said Pandit's 'militant' style of coaching did not go down well with certain foreign players. "I have not heard about any criticism. It's been early days, and my working relationship with him has been really very good. Hopefully, it will continue that way," Gambhir was quoted as saying by Times Now. "Whatever has been said, I have no clue about it. I think he has been pretty successful in first-class cricket, and that is the reason why he has got this opportunity. So far, it has been really good working with him," he added. Also read | All not well in KKR? David Wiese opens up on Chandu Pandit’s ‘militant’ coaching style What did Wiese allege? Speaking on the Hitman for Hire: A year in the life of a franchise cricketer podcast, Wiese said the arrival of Pandit had changed the dynamics inside the dressing room. "There were certain issues going on behind the scenes in the team. Guys weren't happy with certain things that were going on, and a lot of the times, it was a tough changing room. There was a new coach coming in and he liked to do things a certain way, and that didn't sit well with the players," said Wiese. "Guys were frustrated because a lot changed, and the coach brought in things that he thought would bring success. But as an overseas player, they sometimes don't sit well. He's known in India as a fairly militant type of coach, a strict disciplinarian," said Wiese. Also read | IPL 2024: Virat Kohli says people disappointed after he hugged Gautam Gambhir, Naveen-ul-Haq Earlier this month, Punjab Kings batter Ashutosh Sharma also alleged that it was Pandit who curtailed his career from going forward after the pair had a falling out. "I would go to the gym and retire to my hotel room. I was sinking into depression and no one told me what my fault was. A new coach had joined Madhya Pradesh and he had strong likes and dislikes and despite scoring 90 odd in 45 balls in a trial match, I was dropped from the team," Ashutosh said without naming the coach. A job offer from Railways helped Ashutosh get his cricketing career back on track and he single-handedly powered the franchise to win against Gujarat Titans by smashing a 17-ball 31-run cameo. (With inputs from agencies)

Gautam Gambhir opens up on ‘militant coach’ Chandrakant Pandit’s KKR reign

<p>Virat Kohli said people were left disappointed after he hugged Naveen-ul-Haq and Gautam Gambhir instead of beefing with them at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli had a spat with Naveen and Gambhir last year when Royal challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squared up against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at a recent promotional event, Kohli said he had buried the hatchet with both and that there was not much to add to the controversy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People are disappointed with my behaviour. I hugged Naveen and Gauti bhai also hugged me that day. So they have lost their masala (spice)," said Kohli.</p>

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<h2><strong>What had happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Naveen and Kohli had exchanged some words in the middle which angered Gambhir who sided with his then-team member, leading to players from both camps coming out to separate the former Indian teammates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Months after the incident, the Afghanistani bowler revealed that the seeds of the tussle were laid in the previous match between the two sides in Bengaluru where the Lucknow-based franchise won and Gambhir got 'carried away'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We went to play our away match in Bengaluru. That's where it all started. We won that game - it was very close – so one of our players [Avesh Khan] threw the helmet in excitement after scoring the winning runs," said Naveen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Virat Kohli probably didn't like it. Next, their team came to Lucknow. I think I went out to bat at No. 9 or 10 and we had pretty much lost the game by then," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-watch-virat-kohli-and-naveen-ul-haq-close-ipl-fight-with-hug-during-india-vs-afghanistan-645660"><strong>Watch | ODI World Cup 2023&nbsp;- Virat Kohli and Naveen ul Haq close IPL fight with hug during India vs Afghanistan</strong></a></p>

<p>"So, I didn't expect that I would be sledged. But when it happened, like I said, when someone starts, I can't hold back. After the game, things continued during the handshake too. The sledging came from two guys – Kohli and Mohammed Siraj."</p>

<p>Notably, after the spat, the three cricketers were handed heavy fines. Kohli and Gambhir were fined 100 per cent of their match fees while Naveen had to forego 50 per cent of his match fee. IPL also released a statement conveying that Kohli and Gambhir confessed to having committed a Level 2 offence.</p>

<p>However,&nbsp;during the&nbsp;ODI World Cup match in New Delhi in October last year, Kohli and Naveen hugged each other with a smile and closed the acrimonious chapter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He told me 'let's finish it.' I said yeah let's finish it. We laughed about it, we hugged and moved on. He also said that after this you won't hear my name. You will only hear support from the crowd," said Naveen.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Virat Kohli said people were left disappointed after he hugged Naveen-ul-Haq and Gautam Gambhir instead of beefing with them at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).

Virat Kohli said people were left disappointed after he hugged Naveen-ul-Haq and Gautam Gambhir instead of beefing with them at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli had a spat with Naveen and Gambhir last year when Royal challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squared up against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Speaking at a recent promotional event, Kohli said he had buried the hatchet with both and that there was not much to add to the controversy. "People are disappointed with my behaviour. I hugged Naveen and Gauti bhai also hugged me that day. So they have lost their masala (spice)," said Kohli. Here's the Video 🤣 pic.twitter.com/pEDgJhQm0m — Ayush 🚩 (@ayriick_) April 11, 2024 × What had happened? Naveen and Kohli had exchanged some words in the middle which angered Gambhir who sided with his then-team member, leading to players from both camps coming out to separate the former Indian teammates. Months after the incident, the Afghanistani bowler revealed that the seeds of the tussle were laid in the previous match between the two sides in Bengaluru where the Lucknow-based franchise won and Gambhir got 'carried away'. "We went to play our away match in Bengaluru. That's where it all started. We won that game - it was very close – so one of our players [Avesh Khan] threw the helmet in excitement after scoring the winning runs," said Naveen. "Virat Kohli probably didn't like it. Next, their team came to Lucknow. I think I went out to bat at No. 9 or 10 and we had pretty much lost the game by then," he added. Watch | ODI World Cup 2023 - Virat Kohli and Naveen ul Haq close IPL fight with hug during India vs Afghanistan "So, I didn't expect that I would be sledged. But when it happened, like I said, when someone starts, I can't hold back. After the game, things continued during the handshake too. The sledging came from two guys – Kohli and Mohammed Siraj." Notably, after the spat, the three cricketers were handed heavy fines. Kohli and Gambhir were fined 100 per cent of their match fees while Naveen had to forego 50 per cent of his match fee. IPL also released a statement conveying that Kohli and Gambhir confessed to having committed a Level 2 offence. However, during the ODI World Cup match in New Delhi in October last year, Kohli and Naveen hugged each other with a smile and closed the acrimonious chapter. "He told me 'let's finish it.' I said yeah let's finish it. We laughed about it, we hugged and moved on. He also said that after this you won't hear my name. You will only hear support from the crowd," said Naveen. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli says people disappointed after he hugged Gautam Gambhir, Naveen-ul-Haq

<p>Ahead of match 22 in IPL 2024, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (April 8) in Chennai, Gautam Gambhir -- former KKR skipper and their current mentor -- recalled his IPL rivalry with MS Dhoni. Gambhir heaped praise on the former CSK and Indian captain Dhoni. He went onto add that during his KKR captaincy days, he had to be at his tactical best to overcome Dhoni when the latter was leading the Super Kings. It is to be noted that Gambhir-led KKR won their maiden IPL title in 2012, beating CSK by five wickets in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking on Star Sports, Gambhir stated that both Dhoni and he have been very competitive and always wanted to win. He said, "I wanted to win. I am very clear in my mind. Friends, mutual respect, everything will remain. But when you are in the middle, I am captaining KKR and he is captaining CSK. If you ask him, he will probably give you the same answer. It's about winning. Obviously, MS is the most successful captain India will ever have. I don't think anyone can reach that level - winning 3 ICC trophies."</p>

<p>"But, yes, in the IPL, enjoyed every bit of it because I knew MS had that tactical mindset. He is very good tactically. Knew how to control the spinners, how to set the fields against them and would never give up as well. He batted at No. 6 or 7, and we knew that till he was there, he could finish off the game."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-let-ms-dhoni-remain-a-finisher-clarke-not-in-favour-of-former-csk-captain-batting-up-the-order-708889">IPL 2024: 'Let MS Dhoni remain a finisher' - Clarke not in favour of former CSK captain batting up the order</a></strong></p>

<p>The former Indian opener added, "Even if they needed 20 runs in an over, and MS was in the middle, he could finish off that game. At the same time, I knew I had the bowling attack to challenge anyone in the Super Kings. Knew that tactically had to be better than him in every front because he is not that aggressive on the field, but knew he would not give up. Chennai is that kind of a team, against whom you know you are not winning until the last ball was bowled."</p>

<p>Both Dhoni and Gambhir have been regarded as one of the finest IPL captains. The two have shared a great rivalry during their respective captaincy days. On Monday evening, CSK will host KKR in match 22 of the ongoing edition with Dhoni representing the defending champions as a keeper-batter; having handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad whereas Gambhir will don the mentor's hat as Kolkata will look to remain unbeaten with four successive wins.</p>


Ahead of match 22 in IPL 2024, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (April 8) in Chennai, Gautam Gambhir -- former KKR skipper and their current mentor -- recalled his IPL rivalry with MS Dhoni.

Ahead of match 22 in IPL 2024, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (April 8) in Chennai, Gautam Gambhir -- former KKR skipper and their current mentor -- recalled his IPL rivalry with MS Dhoni. Gambhir heaped praise on the former CSK and Indian captain Dhoni. He went onto add that during his KKR captaincy days, he had to be at his tactical best to overcome Dhoni when the latter was leading the Super Kings. It is to be noted that Gambhir-led KKR won their maiden IPL title in 2012, beating CSK by five wickets in Chennai. Talking on Star Sports, Gambhir stated that both Dhoni and he have been very competitive and always wanted to win. He said, "I wanted to win. I am very clear in my mind. Friends, mutual respect, everything will remain. But when you are in the middle, I am captaining KKR and he is captaining CSK. If you ask him, he will probably give you the same answer. It's about winning. Obviously, MS is the most successful captain India will ever have. I don't think anyone can reach that level - winning 3 ICC trophies." "But, yes, in the IPL, enjoyed every bit of it because I knew MS had that tactical mindset. He is very good tactically. Knew how to control the spinners, how to set the fields against them and would never give up as well. He batted at No. 6 or 7, and we knew that till he was there, he could finish off the game." Also read: IPL 2024: 'Let MS Dhoni remain a finisher' - Clarke not in favour of former CSK captain batting up the order The former Indian opener added, "Even if they needed 20 runs in an over, and MS was in the middle, he could finish off that game. At the same time, I knew I had the bowling attack to challenge anyone in the Super Kings. Knew that tactically had to be better than him in every front because he is not that aggressive on the field, but knew he would not give up. Chennai is that kind of a team, against whom you know you are not winning until the last ball was bowled." Both Dhoni and Gambhir have been regarded as one of the finest IPL captains. The two have shared a great rivalry during their respective captaincy days. On Monday evening, CSK will host KKR in match 22 of the ongoing edition with Dhoni representing the defending champions as a keeper-batter; having handed over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad whereas Gambhir will don the mentor's hat as Kolkata will look to remain unbeaten with four successive wins.

IPL 2024: ‘MS Dhoni is not that aggressive, but...’ - Gautam Gambhir lauds CSK star, recalls rivalry with him

<p>The Indian Cricket Team and its countless fans worldwide realised their dream of winning the 50-over World Cup for the second time in history on this day (April 2nd) in 2011. The Men in Blue, led by MS Dhoni, beat Sri Lanka in the all-important final by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai to clinch the ultimate glory. Zaheer Khan, Gautam Gambhir and skipper MS Dhoni starred with their&nbsp;performances in the summit clash.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Throwback to a very special day! 🏆<br />
<br />
🗓️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 2011, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> won the ODI World Cup for the second time 👏👏 <a href="https://t.co/inyLTWKcrY">pic.twitter.com/inyLTWKcrY</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1775002717192331470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The star cast of 2011 was filled with match-winners, from the legendary openers (Sehwag and Sachin) to the man of the tournament Yuvraj Singh, to the unsung heroes (Gautam, Raina and Yusuf), everyone contributed to India’s success on the top stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-riyan-parag-reaps-rewards-at-no-4-for-rajasthan-royals-continues-impressive-showing-from-smat-706727">IPL 2024: Riyan Parag reaps rewards at No. 4 for Rajasthan Royals, continues impressive showing from SMAT</a></strong></p>

<p>Even the bowlers were exceptional throughout; led by Zaheer, the pace attack looked in their element. Ashish Nehra and Munaf Patel made inroads during crucial games, including the high-octane semis clash against Pakistan in Mohali. Harbhajan Singh and Piyush Chawla made up the specialist spin attack, with others chipping in with wickets, striking a balance like never before.</p>

<h2>The Big Day – The Final!</h2>

<p>India bowled first in the grand finale against perhaps the most sort-after team in the tournament – Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zaheer was on song on the day it mattered the most, bowling tight lines, resulting in the early breakthrough of Upul Tharanga. Dilshan and Captain Kumar Sangakkara stitched a partnership but Harbhajan and Yuvraj removed both, respectively.</p>

<p>Despite the Lankans losing wickets regularly, Mahela Jayawardene, alongside Kulasekara and Perera, ensured Sri Lanka posted a mammoth total of 274-6 on the board, with Mahela completing a hundred on the D-Day.</p>

<h3>Tough start but India got through</h3>

<p>India got off to the worst possible start, losing attacking batter Sehwag on the second ball for a duck, with Sachin following him soon after inside the Powerplay. Two Delhi boys, Kohli and Gambhir bailed India out of trouble, stitching an 83-run stand for the third wicket before Dilshan sent Kohli packing.</p>

<p>However, what favoured India that day was the management’s call to send MS Dhoni ahead of Yuvraj Singh - India’s best bet at number four in the World Cup. That move paid dividends as Dhoni and Gautam put India in the driver’s seat. Though Gautam missed out on scoring a hundred, getting bowled on 97 to Perera, Dhoni remained unbeaten on 91 to see India through in the run-chase.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The anchor of India’s innings ⚓️<a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> saved his best for the 2011 final. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC11Rewind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC11Rewind</a> <a href="https://t.co/lLL3bij1nM">pic.twitter.com/lLL3bij1nM</a></p>
— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup/status/1377947024902008834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>His six off Kulasekara to win the match and the World Cup is cherished to date as one of the game's greatest moments.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">INDIA WON THE WORLD CUP ON THIS DAY IN 2011..!!!! 🇮🇳<br />
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Dream for 28 years ended under the leadership of MS Dhoni - the winning six will be remembered forever from the Captain - A team effort through the tournament with Dhoni &amp; Gambhir heroes in final. 🏆<a href="https://t.co/qZdPGHHfl2">pic.twitter.com/qZdPGHHfl2</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1774866643036033468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, it’s been 13 years to the day when India clinched the ultimate glory, and several players from that squad recall sitting on top of the world.</p>

<p>Check out some posts -</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thirteen years ago, my childhood dream turned into reality. Forever grateful for the memories, the team, and the incredible support of over a billion people. <a href="https://t.co/RvUuzuGqhQ">pic.twitter.com/RvUuzuGqhQ</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1775045483897237545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">2-4-2011 Day to remember .. 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳 Worldcup winners <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Grateful?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Grateful</a> <a href="https://t.co/aocMNyzSWC">pic.twitter.com/aocMNyzSWC</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1775050795714818413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This day 2nd April never get old, every year this day refresh our memories. Proud to be a part of such big moment. Missing you all my teammates.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/worldcup2011?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#worldcup2011</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/qawgYteMnn">pic.twitter.com/qawgYteMnn</a></p>
— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) <a href="https://twitter.com/munafpa99881129/status/1775039076044816398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still get goosebumps thinking about that historic moment in 2011 when we lifted the World Cup 🏆 Incredible memories with an amazing team! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/2011WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#2011WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/af3l6llJ1Z">pic.twitter.com/af3l6llJ1Z</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1774993387449733130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reliving this feeling ❤️🇮🇳🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC2011?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC2011</a> <a href="https://t.co/zT9C0FSusg">pic.twitter.com/zT9C0FSusg</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1775014847497073050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> in 2011, our Men in Blue made history by clinching the ICC Cricket World Cup for the 2nd time! 🏆 Led by the legendary <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>, with gritty innings from <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a>, quality batting by <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a>, heroic all-round displays by <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> and the entire squad… <a href="https://t.co/EDPFLrXhQc">pic.twitter.com/EDPFLrXhQc</a></p>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1775043664861123023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Indian Cricket Team and its countless fans worldwide realised their dream of winning the 50-over World Cup for the second time in history on this day (April 2nd) in 2011.

The Indian Cricket Team and its countless fans worldwide realised their dream of winning the 50-over World Cup for the second time in history on this day (April 2nd) in 2011. The Men in Blue, led by MS Dhoni, beat Sri Lanka in the all-important final by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai to clinch the ultimate glory. Zaheer Khan, Gautam Gambhir and skipper MS Dhoni starred with their performances in the summit clash. Throwback to a very special day! 🏆 🗓️ #OnThisDay in 2011, #TeamIndia won the ODI World Cup for the second time 👏👏 pic.twitter.com/inyLTWKcrY — BCCI (@BCCI) April 2, 2024 × The star cast of 2011 was filled with match-winners, from the legendary openers (Sehwag and Sachin) to the man of the tournament Yuvraj Singh, to the unsung heroes (Gautam, Raina and Yusuf), everyone contributed to India’s success on the top stage. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Riyan Parag reaps rewards at No. 4 for Rajasthan Royals, continues impressive showing from SMAT Even the bowlers were exceptional throughout; led by Zaheer, the pace attack looked in their element. Ashish Nehra and Munaf Patel made inroads during crucial games, including the high-octane semis clash against Pakistan in Mohali. Harbhajan Singh and Piyush Chawla made up the specialist spin attack, with others chipping in with wickets, striking a balance like never before. The Big Day – The Final! India bowled first in the grand finale against perhaps the most sort-after team in the tournament – Sri Lanka. Zaheer was on song on the day it mattered the most, bowling tight lines, resulting in the early breakthrough of Upul Tharanga. Dilshan and Captain Kumar Sangakkara stitched a partnership but Harbhajan and Yuvraj removed both, respectively. Despite the Lankans losing wickets regularly, Mahela Jayawardene, alongside Kulasekara and Perera, ensured Sri Lanka posted a mammoth total of 274-6 on the board, with Mahela completing a hundred on the D-Day. Tough start but India got through India got off to the worst possible start, losing attacking batter Sehwag on the second ball for a duck, with Sachin following him soon after inside the Powerplay. Two Delhi boys, Kohli and Gambhir bailed India out of trouble, stitching an 83-run stand for the third wicket before Dilshan sent Kohli packing. However, what favoured India that day was the management’s call to send MS Dhoni ahead of Yuvraj Singh - India’s best bet at number four in the World Cup. That move paid dividends as Dhoni and Gautam put India in the driver’s seat. Though Gautam missed out on scoring a hundred, getting bowled on 97 to Perera, Dhoni remained unbeaten on 91 to see India through in the run-chase. The anchor of India’s innings ⚓️@GautamGambhir saved his best for the 2011 final. #CWC11Rewind pic.twitter.com/lLL3bij1nM — ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) April 2, 2021 × His six off Kulasekara to win the match and the World Cup is cherished to date as one of the game's greatest moments. INDIA WON THE WORLD CUP ON THIS DAY IN 2011..!!!! 🇮🇳 Dream for 28 years ended under the leadership of MS Dhoni - the winning six will be remembered forever from the Captain - A team effort through the tournament with Dhoni & Gambhir heroes in final. 🏆pic.twitter.com/qZdPGHHfl2 — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 1, 2024 × Meanwhile, it’s been 13 years to the day when India clinched the ultimate glory, and several players from that squad recall sitting on top of the world. Check out some posts - Thirteen years ago, my childhood dream turned into reality. Forever grateful for the memories, the team, and the incredible support of over a billion people. pic.twitter.com/RvUuzuGqhQ — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 2, 2024 × 2-4-2011 Day to remember .. 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳 Worldcup winners #Grateful pic.twitter.com/aocMNyzSWC — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) April 2, 2024 × This day 2nd April never get old, every year this day refresh our memories. Proud to be a part of such big moment. Missing you all my teammates.#worldcup2011 @BCCI pic.twitter.com/qawgYteMnn — Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) April 2, 2024 × Still get goosebumps thinking about that historic moment in 2011 when we lifted the World Cup 🏆 Incredible memories with an amazing team! #2011WorldCup #TeamIndia 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/af3l6llJ1Z — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) April 2, 2024 × Reliving this feeling ❤️🇮🇳🏆#CWC2011 pic.twitter.com/zT9C0FSusg — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) April 2, 2024 × #OnThisDay in 2011, our Men in Blue made history by clinching the ICC Cricket World Cup for the 2nd time! 🏆 Led by the legendary @msdhoni, with gritty innings from @GautamGambhir, quality batting by @sachin_rt, heroic all-round displays by @YUVSTRONG12 and the entire squad… pic.twitter.com/EDPFLrXhQc — Jay Shah (@JayShah) April 2, 2024 ×

OTD in 2011: ‘India lifts World Cup’ – Relive the moment MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue claimed ultimate glory

<p>The M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is all set for a blockbuster clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday (Mar 29) as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The two rivals who kickstarted the IPL back in 2008 will once again reignite their rivalry. However, according to the former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir the RCB vs KKR clash is not a rivalry considering his former side has won two titles. Ahead of the match he took a dig at RCB which has now set the tone for the clash.</p>

<h2><strong>Gambhir takes dig at RCB</strong></h2>

<p>“There is no rivalry between KKR and RCB because KKR have two IPL trophies and RCB zero,” Gambhir&nbsp;said in the build-up to the match.</p>

<p>KKR and RCB will be facing each other for the 33rd time on Friday as KKR dominate the head-to-head contest with 18-14 in their favour. The two sides meeting in the inaugural match of 2008 has good memories with Brendon McCullum scoring an unbeaten 158 at the same venue.</p>

<p>At the time of writing, RCB were 84/2 with Virat Kohli playing on 41 while Glenn Maxwell was playing on 1. Earlier skipper Faf du Plessis was dismissed for 8 while Cameron Green departed for a well-made 33 off 21.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-i-am-interested-to-see-how-virat-tackles-starc-says-steve-smith-on-blockbuster-rcb-v-kkr-clash-705528">IPL 2024: ‘I am interested to see how Virat tackles Starc’, says Steve Smith on blockbuster RCB v KKR clash</a></p>

<p>RCB have won one and lost one match so far this campaign while KKR won a tight contest against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday. RCB beat Punjab Kings by four wickets in their last match at home with Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik producing their best with the bat.</p>

<p>Interestingly, KKR have not lost a match at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in their last five visits while no team is yet to lose a match on their home turf in the current season.</p>

<h2><strong>Royal Challengers Bengaluru Playing XI</strong></h2>

<p>Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Cameron Green, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Anuj Rawat (wk), Dinesh Karthik, Alzarri Joseph, Mayank Dagar, Mohammed Siraj, Yash Dayal</p>

<h2><strong>Kolkata Knight Riders Playing XI</strong></h2>

<p>Philip Salt (wk), Venkatesh Iyer, Shreyas Iyer (c), Ramandeep Singh , Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Mitchell Starc, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy</p>


The M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is all set for a blockbuster clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday (Mar 29) as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

The M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is all set for a blockbuster clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday (Mar 29) as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The two rivals who kickstarted the IPL back in 2008 will once again reignite their rivalry. However, according to the former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir the RCB vs KKR clash is not a rivalry considering his former side has won two titles. Ahead of the match he took a dig at RCB which has now set the tone for the clash. Gambhir takes dig at RCB “There is no rivalry between KKR and RCB because KKR have two IPL trophies and RCB zero,” Gambhir said in the build-up to the match. KKR and RCB will be facing each other for the 33rd time on Friday as KKR dominate the head-to-head contest with 18-14 in their favour. The two sides meeting in the inaugural match of 2008 has good memories with Brendon McCullum scoring an unbeaten 158 at the same venue. At the time of writing, RCB were 84/2 with Virat Kohli playing on 41 while Glenn Maxwell was playing on 1. Earlier skipper Faf du Plessis was dismissed for 8 while Cameron Green departed for a well-made 33 off 21. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: ‘I am interested to see how Virat tackles Starc’, says Steve Smith on blockbuster RCB v KKR clash RCB have won one and lost one match so far this campaign while KKR won a tight contest against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday. RCB beat Punjab Kings by four wickets in their last match at home with Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik producing their best with the bat. Interestingly, KKR have not lost a match at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in their last five visits while no team is yet to lose a match on their home turf in the current season. Royal Challengers Bengaluru Playing XI Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Cameron Green, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Anuj Rawat (wk), Dinesh Karthik, Alzarri Joseph, Mayank Dagar, Mohammed Siraj, Yash Dayal Kolkata Knight Riders Playing XI Philip Salt (wk), Venkatesh Iyer, Shreyas Iyer (c), Ramandeep Singh , Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Mitchell Starc, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy

IPL 2024: Gautam Gambhir claims RCB vs KKR is 'no rivalry' ahead of huge encounter in Bengaluru

<p>IPL 2024 has brought a few memorable moments for the fans, but Virat Kohli hugging Gautam Gambhir is perhaps the best. This out-of-the-blue incident happened during the strategic timeout during RCB’s innings, when Virat was batting, and Gambhir hopped onto the field to give some pep talk to KKR players. Two Delhi boys met generously and hugged it out in a lighter yet beautiful moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>You can watch the video here –</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our favourite strategic timeout ever 🫂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioCinema</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/A50VPhD6RI">pic.twitter.com/A50VPhD6RI</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1773734957208211780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Why is this hug special?</h2>

<p>For those wondering what makes two former India cricketers hugging it out on the field special, be told that these two stalwarts have been involved in a couple of famous verbal volleys in this competition. From the days when Gautam was leading KKR and Virat was a youngster on the RCB side, both have got on each other’s nerves a couple of times.</p>

<p>The most famous incident happened during the 2013 edition, where after Kohli’s dismissal, Gautam gave him a fiery send-off, irking Kohli to revert, leading to both getting onto each other’s faces. It took more than two players to separate these two.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-kkr-end-away-wins-jinx-in-rcbs-backyard-with-emphatic-seven-wicket-victory-in-bengaluru-705742">IPL 2024: KKR end away wins jinx in RCB's backyard with emphatic seven-wicket victory in Bengaluru</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the latest instance occurred during last season, when LSG mentor Gautam approached Virat after the latter got involved in a heated argument with their overseas bowler, Naveen-ul-Haq, during the game. That clip also broke the internet as both teams rushed into that moment to separate both.</p>

<p>Moreover, Gautam, during a pre-recorded interview with Star Sports ahead of the RCB vs KKR tie, admitted that throughout his career, he always wanted to beat RCB, be it as a player, captain, mentor or coach. Detailing more on this, Gambhir said RCB hasn’t won anything in 16 years in this competition and yet carries the attitude of a team that has won several accolades.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> thinks <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> have massively underachieved in the past despite having <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/henrygayle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@henrygayle</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a> 😬<br />
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Gambhir dreams of getting back on the field and beat Kohli &amp; team yet again! 😱<br />
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Don't miss Gambhir's Kolkata take on Virat's Bangalore! 💥… <a href="https://t.co/Vvx6YNmqNS">pic.twitter.com/Vvx6YNmqNS</a></p>
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1773657611423908295?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h3>KKR crush RCB in Bengaluru</h3>

<p>Batting first, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru scored 182 for six in 20 overs, with their star batter Virat Kohli remaining unbeaten on 83 off 59 balls, hitting four sixes and as many fours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the touring KKR side made a mockery of this chase, winning it inside 17 overs with seven wickets remaining. Beginning from the openers – Phil Salt and Sunil Narine, the pair smashed RCB bowlers to all parts of the ground, striking at over 150. Venkatesh Iyer completed a fifty, and Captain Shreyas Iyer remained unbeaten on 39 off 24 balls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this win, KKR bagged two crucial points, while RCB is yet to open its account this season.&nbsp;</p>


IPL 2024 has brought a few memorable moments for the fans, but Virat Kohli hugging Gautam Gambhir is perhaps the best. This out-of-the-blue incident happened during the strategic timeout during RCB’s innings, when Virat was batting, and Gambhir hopped onto the field to give some pep talk to KKR players.

IPL 2024 has brought a few memorable moments for the fans, but Virat Kohli hugging Gautam Gambhir is perhaps the best. This out-of-the-blue incident happened during the strategic timeout during RCB’s innings, when Virat was batting, and Gambhir hopped onto the field to give some pep talk to KKR players. Two Delhi boys met generously and hugged it out in a lighter yet beautiful moment. You can watch the video here – Our favourite strategic timeout ever 🫂#IPLonJioCinema #RCBvKKR #TATAIPL #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/A50VPhD6RI — JioCinema (@JioCinema) March 29, 2024 × Why is this hug special? For those wondering what makes two former India cricketers hugging it out on the field special, be told that these two stalwarts have been involved in a couple of famous verbal volleys in this competition. From the days when Gautam was leading KKR and Virat was a youngster on the RCB side, both have got on each other’s nerves a couple of times. The most famous incident happened during the 2013 edition, where after Kohli’s dismissal, Gautam gave him a fiery send-off, irking Kohli to revert, leading to both getting onto each other’s faces. It took more than two players to separate these two. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: KKR end away wins jinx in RCB's backyard with emphatic seven-wicket victory in Bengaluru However, the latest instance occurred during last season, when LSG mentor Gautam approached Virat after the latter got involved in a heated argument with their overseas bowler, Naveen-ul-Haq, during the game. That clip also broke the internet as both teams rushed into that moment to separate both. Moreover, Gautam, during a pre-recorded interview with Star Sports ahead of the RCB vs KKR tie, admitted that throughout his career, he always wanted to beat RCB, be it as a player, captain, mentor or coach. Detailing more on this, Gambhir said RCB hasn’t won anything in 16 years in this competition and yet carries the attitude of a team that has won several accolades. .@GautamGambhir thinks @RCBTweets have massively underachieved in the past despite having @imVkohli, @henrygayle and @ABdeVilliers17 😬 Gambhir dreams of getting back on the field and beat Kohli & team yet again! 😱 Don't miss Gambhir's Kolkata take on Virat's Bangalore! 💥… pic.twitter.com/Vvx6YNmqNS — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 29, 2024 × KKR crush RCB in Bengaluru Batting first, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru scored 182 for six in 20 overs, with their star batter Virat Kohli remaining unbeaten on 83 off 59 balls, hitting four sixes and as many fours. However, the touring KKR side made a mockery of this chase, winning it inside 17 overs with seven wickets remaining. Beginning from the openers – Phil Salt and Sunil Narine, the pair smashed RCB bowlers to all parts of the ground, striking at over 150. Venkatesh Iyer completed a fifty, and Captain Shreyas Iyer remained unbeaten on 39 off 24 balls. With this win, KKR bagged two crucial points, while RCB is yet to open its account this season.

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli-Gautam Gambhir hug it out during RCB-KKR tie in Bengaluru – Watch Video

<p>In the first episode of the third season of the&nbsp;<em>Peaky Blinders</em>, the protagonist gangster Thomas Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy) gathers all the men in his family in the kitchen just before his wedding. Fervently smoking a cigarette with a red face, he stands in the centre of their circle and tells them all the things they shouldn’t do to prevent him being embarrassed.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“But the main thing is… despite the provocation from the cavalry, no fighting,” he says, before going around in the circle and pointing to each face and repeating “no fighting” with increasing volume. When he’s done, a waiter carrying a drink just clips him on the back and he throws him on the ground, hurling furious expletives with the cigarette still in his mouth.</p>

<p>It’s pure cinema. An intense scene of an intense drama that you can’t help but watch and laugh at. And you’d feel something similar would be going on in the dressing rooms of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday, ahead of their high-octane clash in IPL 2024.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-match-10-royal-challengers-bengaluru-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-preview-and-result-prediction-705427">IPL 2024, Match 10, Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders – Match preview and result prediction</a></strong></p>

<p>It’s tournament’s oldest rivalry beginning at the same ground in 2008, also kicking off the behemoth that is the IPL. It’s mostly known for the captains’ Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli coming together after the latter’s wicket and a lot of sledging (at the same venue, again), only to be separated by another Delhi boy, Rajat Bhatia.</p>

<p>There's been a lot of bad blood between the teams since, but not many remember who won the game that day. KKR scored 154/8 in the first innings, but who’d remember that it all started with Gambhir’s war-of-words with Moises Henriques in the first innings, after which a charged-up Kohli missed four run-out chances, two of them difficult but two regulation ones?</p>

<p>The score was clearly under-par for a batting delight of a track, but the second innings was always going to be decided by emotions. KKR allowed Chris Gayle to get away with too many short balls, and he won the game single-handedly. But what went on at the other end was telling: before getting out, Kohli played out a maiden over, and AB de Villiers continued that serene momentum with a run-a-ball 22 deprived of any risks whatsoever.</p>

<p>The message would have certainly been sent out by the coach Ray Jennings to control the emotions and with it, the tempo of the innings. When it’s two of the most emotion-fuelled franchises in the tournament, with massive fanbases in front of perhaps the most partisan and loving crowd in the competition, the most important thing is to not get carried away.</p>

<p>Kohli has gained more love of late for putting up a calmer figure, but it’s been less than a year since his second altercation with Gambhir, who was the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)’s mentor at the time. That happened after the match was done, and the now-KKR mentor jumped in between a players’ issue. But again, it was RCB that came out victorious.</p>

<p>Friday is again set up similarly. KKR are unbeaten in the last five matches at Chinnaswamy thanks to a calming aura and tactical superiority. But home sides are yet to lose in IPL 2024.</p>

<p>Both teams are coming off thrilling last-over wins, and you don’t want to give up momentum after such games. Both teams have characters who can spark fire any time — Nitish Rana, Harshit Rana, Alzaari Joseph, Mohammed Siraj, Mitchell Starc apart from Kohli and Gambhir — playing in front of a crowd that has tasted the sweet blood of wins.</p>

<p>It’s going to be neck-and-neck and on the face. Whichever team’s players can bring out their inner Rajat Bhatia and let the tactics do the talking, would have the upper hand.</p>


In the first episode of the third season of the Peaky Blinders, the protagonist gangster Thomas Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy) gathers all the men in his family in the kitchen just before his wedding.

In the first episode of the third season of the Peaky Blinders, the protagonist gangster Thomas Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy) gathers all the men in his family in the kitchen just before his wedding. Fervently smoking a cigarette with a red face, he stands in the centre of their circle and tells them all the things they shouldn’t do to prevent him being embarrassed. “But the main thing is… despite the provocation from the cavalry, no fighting,” he says, before going around in the circle and pointing to each face and repeating “no fighting” with increasing volume. When he’s done, a waiter carrying a drink just clips him on the back and he throws him on the ground, hurling furious expletives with the cigarette still in his mouth. It’s pure cinema. An intense scene of an intense drama that you can’t help but watch and laugh at. And you’d feel something similar would be going on in the dressing rooms of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday, ahead of their high-octane clash in IPL 2024. ALSO READ: IPL 2024, Match 10, Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders – Match preview and result prediction It’s tournament’s oldest rivalry beginning at the same ground in 2008, also kicking off the behemoth that is the IPL. It’s mostly known for the captains’ Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli coming together after the latter’s wicket and a lot of sledging (at the same venue, again), only to be separated by another Delhi boy, Rajat Bhatia. There's been a lot of bad blood between the teams since, but not many remember who won the game that day. KKR scored 154/8 in the first innings, but who’d remember that it all started with Gambhir’s war-of-words with Moises Henriques in the first innings, after which a charged-up Kohli missed four run-out chances, two of them difficult but two regulation ones? The score was clearly under-par for a batting delight of a track, but the second innings was always going to be decided by emotions. KKR allowed Chris Gayle to get away with too many short balls, and he won the game single-handedly. But what went on at the other end was telling: before getting out, Kohli played out a maiden over, and AB de Villiers continued that serene momentum with a run-a-ball 22 deprived of any risks whatsoever. The message would have certainly been sent out by the coach Ray Jennings to control the emotions and with it, the tempo of the innings. When it’s two of the most emotion-fuelled franchises in the tournament, with massive fanbases in front of perhaps the most partisan and loving crowd in the competition, the most important thing is to not get carried away. Kohli has gained more love of late for putting up a calmer figure, but it’s been less than a year since his second altercation with Gambhir, who was the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)’s mentor at the time. That happened after the match was done, and the now-KKR mentor jumped in between a players’ issue. But again, it was RCB that came out victorious. Friday is again set up similarly. KKR are unbeaten in the last five matches at Chinnaswamy thanks to a calming aura and tactical superiority. But home sides are yet to lose in IPL 2024. Both teams are coming off thrilling last-over wins, and you don’t want to give up momentum after such games. Both teams have characters who can spark fire any time — Nitish Rana, Harshit Rana, Alzaari Joseph, Mohammed Siraj, Mitchell Starc apart from Kohli and Gambhir — playing in front of a crowd that has tasted the sweet blood of wins. It’s going to be neck-and-neck and on the face. Whichever team’s players can bring out their inner Rajat Bhatia and let the tactics do the talking, would have the upper hand.

'No fighting' is key as IPL’s oldest rivalry between RCB and KKR reignites at M. Chinnaswamy

<p>Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir has asked the players to carry the attitude on the field of the very proud and successful side during the upcoming edition. Gambhir made the comments as the two-time champions started their pre-season campaign ahead of the March 22 start of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former India international, notably, was the captain of the side during their tournament winning seasons in 2012 and 2014. He has returned to the side as a mentor after a two-year stint with Lucknow Super Giants.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-shares-rules-for-knockout-games-in-case-of-rain-delay-during-upcoming-t20-world-cup-700749">ICC shares rules for knockout games in case of rain delay during upcoming T20 World Cup</a></p>

<p>"We start this season from today. Whether it's physically, mentally skill-wise, give everything possible. It's a very, very proud and successful franchise," said Gambhir in video posted by KRR's social media handle.</p>

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<p>"You guys are representing a very successful franchise. Make sure you train that way, you play that way and you carry that attitude around the field. That is going to be very, very important. And one thing I absolutely believe in is giving all the freedom to the players. That is something which is very, very important," Gambhir added.</p>

<p>Gambhir also emphasised on the equality in the team and said there will be no discrimination on basis of seniority or playing status.</p>

<p>"So people who played with me will know one thing about me, that everyone in this group will be treated equally. There's no senior junior. There is no domestic, or international. So we have got one mission and that is to win this IPL," he said.</p>

<p>"So everyone needs to follow that one simple path. On 26th May, we should be there giving everything possible, and it starts from today. It's not gonna start on the 26th. It's not gonna start on the 23rd."</p>

<p>The mentor also added that the players will be given an honest answer to every question they ask.</p>

<p>"It starts from today and this is what we want to do. So if we walk the same path and we fight, I'm sure we're gonna achieve a lot of success. So good luck, guys. Have the freedom. Enjoy yourself. You can ask questions, whether behind closed doors or in front of everyone. And I can assure you, from a support staff point of view, that we're gonna be absolutely honest to every one of you. So, good luck," said Gambhir.</p>

<p>Kolkata start their campaign on the second day of tournament, that is March 23 against SunRisers Hyderabad.</p>


Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir has asked the players to carry the attitude on the field of the very proud and successful side during the upcoming edition.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir has asked the players to carry the attitude on the field of the very proud and successful side during the upcoming edition. Gambhir made the comments as the two-time champions started their pre-season campaign ahead of the March 22 start of the tournament. The former India international, notably, was the captain of the side during their tournament winning seasons in 2012 and 2014. He has returned to the side as a mentor after a two-year stint with Lucknow Super Giants. Also Read: ICC shares rules for knockout games in case of rain delay during upcoming T20 World Cup "We start this season from today. Whether it's physically, mentally skill-wise, give everything possible. It's a very, very proud and successful franchise," said Gambhir in video posted by KRR's social media handle. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kolkata Knight Riders (@kkriders) × "You guys are representing a very successful franchise. Make sure you train that way, you play that way and you carry that attitude around the field. That is going to be very, very important. And one thing I absolutely believe in is giving all the freedom to the players. That is something which is very, very important," Gambhir added. Gambhir also emphasised on the equality in the team and said there will be no discrimination on basis of seniority or playing status. "So people who played with me will know one thing about me, that everyone in this group will be treated equally. There's no senior junior. There is no domestic, or international. So we have got one mission and that is to win this IPL," he said. "So everyone needs to follow that one simple path. On 26th May, we should be there giving everything possible, and it starts from today. It's not gonna start on the 26th. It's not gonna start on the 23rd." The mentor also added that the players will be given an honest answer to every question they ask. "It starts from today and this is what we want to do. So if we walk the same path and we fight, I'm sure we're gonna achieve a lot of success. So good luck, guys. Have the freedom. Enjoy yourself. You can ask questions, whether behind closed doors or in front of everyone. And I can assure you, from a support staff point of view, that we're gonna be absolutely honest to every one of you. So, good luck," said Gambhir. Kolkata start their campaign on the second day of tournament, that is March 23 against SunRisers Hyderabad.

IPL 2024: 'Attitude, Freedom and Equality,' Gautam Gambhir gives fiery first speech as KKR mentor - WATCH

<p>Indian Premier League (IPL)&nbsp;2024 will see the return of Gautam Gambhir in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) dugout after the 2017 season. Gambhir led the franchise from 2011-2017, helping them win the title twice during this period. This time around, the former Indian opener will wear the mentor's hat for the two-time winners and hope for the Shreyas Iyer-led side to lift their third IPL trophy.</p>

<p>After joining the franchise on Thursday (March 14), Gambhir spoke about new recruit Mitchell Starc. The Australian pacer was bought by KKR in the IPL 2024 mini-auction, held in Dubai last December, for a whopping INR&nbsp; 24.75 crore (247.5 million); becoming the costliest buy ever. Gambhir feels the Aussie speedster will be KKR's X-factor this season</p>

<p>Speaking to the press in Kolkata,&nbsp;Gambhir said, "I had already said on the auction table that he [Starc] is an X-factor and I am sure he is going to deliver. And there's no such pressure of a price tag. I hope that what he has done in international cricket, he can do the same for KKR."</p>

<p>Starc returns to the IPL after nine years, having played two seasons for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2014 and 2015; ending with 34 wickets. He was bought by the KKR franchise in 2018, for INR 9.4&nbsp;crore (94&nbsp;million), before he withdrew his participation ahead of&nbsp;the season. All eyes are on his return&nbsp;after being sold for a whopping amount.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-he-is-the-ipl-graeme-swann-lauds-ms-dhonis-fitness-backs-hardiks-appointment-as-mi-captain-700333">Exclusive: 'He is the IPL' - Graeme Swann lauds MS Dhoni's fitness; backs Hardik's appointment as MI captain</a></strong></p>

<p>On his own return to the KKR franchise, Gambhir stated, "I have always mentioned that KKR to me is not a franchise, but an emotion. I am thus happy to be back. I know there will be expectations and I hope to live up to it and make the fans happy."</p>

<p>Gambhir was part of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for two years, serving as a mentor, before rejoining the Kolkata-based franchise. KKR begin their season on March 23 (Saturday), hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.</p>

<p><strong>KKR squad for IPL 2024:</strong> Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shreyas Iyer (c), Jason Roy, Sunil Narine, Suyash Sharma, Anukul Roy, Andre Russell, Venkatesh Iyer, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy, KS Bharat, Chetan Sakariya, Mitchell Starc, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Ramandeep Singh, Sherfane Rutherford, Manish Pandey, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Gus Atkinson, Sakib Hussain.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 will see the return of Gautam Gambhir in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) dugout after the 2017 season. Gambhir led the franchise from 2011-2017, helping them win the title twice during this period.

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 will see the return of Gautam Gambhir in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) dugout after the 2017 season. Gambhir led the franchise from 2011-2017, helping them win the title twice during this period. This time around, the former Indian opener will wear the mentor's hat for the two-time winners and hope for the Shreyas Iyer-led side to lift their third IPL trophy. After joining the franchise on Thursday (March 14), Gambhir spoke about new recruit Mitchell Starc. The Australian pacer was bought by KKR in the IPL 2024 mini-auction, held in Dubai last December, for a whopping INR 24.75 crore (247.5 million); becoming the costliest buy ever. Gambhir feels the Aussie speedster will be KKR's X-factor this season Speaking to the press in Kolkata, Gambhir said, "I had already said on the auction table that he [Starc] is an X-factor and I am sure he is going to deliver. And there's no such pressure of a price tag. I hope that what he has done in international cricket, he can do the same for KKR." Starc returns to the IPL after nine years, having played two seasons for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2014 and 2015; ending with 34 wickets. He was bought by the KKR franchise in 2018, for INR 9.4 crore (94 million), before he withdrew his participation ahead of the season. All eyes are on his return after being sold for a whopping amount. Also read: Exclusive: 'He is the IPL' - Graeme Swann lauds MS Dhoni's fitness; backs Hardik's appointment as MI captain On his own return to the KKR franchise, Gambhir stated, "I have always mentioned that KKR to me is not a franchise, but an emotion. I am thus happy to be back. I know there will be expectations and I hope to live up to it and make the fans happy." Gambhir was part of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for two years, serving as a mentor, before rejoining the Kolkata-based franchise. KKR begin their season on March 23 (Saturday), hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. KKR squad for IPL 2024: Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shreyas Iyer (c), Jason Roy, Sunil Narine, Suyash Sharma, Anukul Roy, Andre Russell, Venkatesh Iyer, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy, KS Bharat, Chetan Sakariya, Mitchell Starc, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Ramandeep Singh, Sherfane Rutherford, Manish Pandey, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Gus Atkinson, Sakib Hussain.

IPL 2024: Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc will be KKR's X-factor, claims mentor Gautam Gambhir

With less than two months to go for the general elections in India a lot is happening in the country's political landscape. Ruling Bhartiya Janata Party lawmaker and former cricketer Gautam Gambhir has asked the party Chief JP Nadda to relieve him of his political duties in a tweet posted on X (formerly Twitter). Watch to know more!

India: Gautam Gambhir not to contest Lok Sabha elections from BJP | Lok Sabha Polls 2024

<p>Former World Cup winner and Member of Parliament of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Gautam Gambhir has requested the party&nbsp;to&nbsp;release him of political duties. Gambhir, a member of the 2007 T20 and 2011 ODI World Cup squad requested BJP President JP Nadda on Saturday (Mar 2) to to relieve him of his political responsibilities&nbsp;in order to focus on his cricketing commitments. Gambhir successfully contested the East Delhi seat in the 2019 general elections with a winning margin of 6,95,109 votes having joined the party in March of the same year.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have requested Hon’ble Party President <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPNadda</a> ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji and Hon’ble HM <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!</p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1763785102268772777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Gautam Gambhir asks to stay away from political duties</strong></h2>

<p>“I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!,” Gambhir wrote on his X handle.</p>

<p>His request to stay away from politics is a clear indication he will not contest the 2024 general elections to be held in a couple of momths.</p>

<p>Gambhir ahead of the 2019 general election joined the PM Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and successfully contested the East Delhi seat in&nbsp;first attempt. However, the former cricketer was more in the news for his controversial statements and fights on the field than he has been in politics.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saudi-arabia-ready-to-host-2034-fifa-world-cup-launches-official-bid-with-campaign-slogan-growing-together-695747">Saudi Arabia ready to host 2034 FIFA World Cup, launches official bid with campaign slogan 'Growing. Together'</a></p>

<p>Gambhir’s exit from the election frame could welcome the addition of Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar to the BJP-led NDA alliance. According to a few reports, the Bollywood actor could be handed the seat vacated by Gambhir in East Delhi. While these are still reports, the BJP intends to win all seven seats in the National Capital Territory (NCT) and would like to have a like-to-like replacement in terms of the fame surrounding Gambhir.</p>

<p>While&nbsp;Gambhir is likely to return to&nbsp;full time commentary and in the role of a mentor&nbsp;during the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Last season he served as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) who made it to the playoffs.</p>

<p>Gambhir's most memorable moment during the IPL has been his on-camera verbal spat with former India captain Virat Kohli during a game against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).</p>


Former World Cup winner and Member of Parliament of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Gautam Gambhir has requested the party to release him of political duties.

Former World Cup winner and Member of Parliament of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Gautam Gambhir has requested the party to release him of political duties. Gambhir, a member of the 2007 T20 and 2011 ODI World Cup squad requested BJP President JP Nadda on Saturday (Mar 2) to to relieve him of his political responsibilities in order to focus on his cricketing commitments. Gambhir successfully contested the East Delhi seat in the 2019 general elections with a winning margin of 6,95,109 votes having joined the party in March of the same year. I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind! — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) March 2, 2024 × Gautam Gambhir asks to stay away from political duties “I have requested Hon’ble Party President @JPNadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji and Hon’ble HM @AmitShah ji for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind!,” Gambhir wrote on his X handle. His request to stay away from politics is a clear indication he will not contest the 2024 general elections to be held in a couple of momths. Gambhir ahead of the 2019 general election joined the PM Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and successfully contested the East Delhi seat in first attempt. However, the former cricketer was more in the news for his controversial statements and fights on the field than he has been in politics. ALSO READ | Saudi Arabia ready to host 2034 FIFA World Cup, launches official bid with campaign slogan 'Growing. Together' Gambhir’s exit from the election frame could welcome the addition of Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar to the BJP-led NDA alliance. According to a few reports, the Bollywood actor could be handed the seat vacated by Gambhir in East Delhi. While these are still reports, the BJP intends to win all seven seats in the National Capital Territory (NCT) and would like to have a like-to-like replacement in terms of the fame surrounding Gambhir. While Gambhir is likely to return to full time commentary and in the role of a mentor during the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Last season he served as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) who made it to the playoffs. Gambhir's most memorable moment during the IPL has been his on-camera verbal spat with former India captain Virat Kohli during a game against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Former World Cup winner and MP Gautam Gambhir requests ruling BJP to relieve him of political duties

<p>Former two-time IPL winner with Kolkata Knight Riders, Gautam Gambhir, picks Rohit Sharma as the player to give him sleepless nights in the tournament. Playing under and against a few top captains during his IPL tenure, Gautam has picked ex-MI captain Rohit to trouble him the most, pushing Gambhir to have more than one plan against him every time.</p>

<p>Speaking to Star Sports ahead of the 17th season of the Indian Premier League that begins in mid-March, Gautam opened up on his on-field battles against the current India captain.</p>

<p>Though Gautam has found success against some of the mentally toughest and most strategic players and captains in the cash-rich league, planning on removing Rohit as a batter kept him on his toes at all times.</p>

<p>"Rohit Sharma is the only player who has given me sleepless nights. No Chris Gayle, no AB de Villiers, no one. Only Rohit Sharma because I knew I had to have Plan A, Plan B and probably Plan C as well because if Rohit is in, I don't think anyone can control him. The only batsman I feared in the IPL was Rohit. I have never planned for any other batter in the IPL except Rohit Sharma,” Gautam said while speaking highly of Rohit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mohammad-hafeez-ex-pakistan-team-director-promises-to-reveal-facts-behind-his-sacking-691383">Mohammad Hafeez, ex-Pakistan team director, promises to reveal 'facts' behind his sacking</a></strong></p>

<p>Admitting to worrying about dismissing Rohit cheaply despite having some of the best names in T20 cricket in his ranks, Gautam said if a night before the game he had thought of Plan A, Rohit would better that the next day, leaving Gautam and everyone clueless on how to get him out.</p>

<p>"There have been times where I have seen the visuals; I would say fair enough, Plan A is fine, but with Rohit Sharma, probably one night before, I used to think, if this doesn't work, I have to get this, if this doesn't work, I have to get the other plan. If Sunil (Narine) bowls his four overs, who gonna bowl the next 16, and if I finish off Sunil early and Rohit is there, he can get 30 off one over as well," Gambhir said on Star Sports.</p>

<h2>Tides changed with time</h2>

<p>Although at one point in time Rohit came across as a destructive top-order batter, scoring heaps of runs at will, the veteran cricketer hasn’t performed enough with bat in the previous two seasons for any captain to feel worried about his presence at the crease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While in IPL 2022, he scored just 268 runs at 19.14, Rohit hit just 332 runs in the following season at a shallow average of 20.75.</p>

<p>Moreover, Mumbai Indians have replaced Rohit with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024.&nbsp;</p>


Former two-time IPL winner with Kolkata Knight Riders, Gautam Gambhir, picks Rohit Sharma as the player to give him sleepless nights in the tournament. Playing under and against a few top captains during his IPL tenure, Gautam has picked ex-MI captain Rohit to trouble him the most, pushing Gambhir to have more than one plan against him every time.

Former two-time IPL winner with Kolkata Knight Riders, Gautam Gambhir, picks Rohit Sharma as the player to give him sleepless nights in the tournament. Playing under and against a few top captains during his IPL tenure, Gautam has picked ex-MI captain Rohit to trouble him the most, pushing Gambhir to have more than one plan against him every time. Speaking to Star Sports ahead of the 17th season of the Indian Premier League that begins in mid-March, Gautam opened up on his on-field battles against the current India captain. Though Gautam has found success against some of the mentally toughest and most strategic players and captains in the cash-rich league, planning on removing Rohit as a batter kept him on his toes at all times. "Rohit Sharma is the only player who has given me sleepless nights. No Chris Gayle, no AB de Villiers, no one. Only Rohit Sharma because I knew I had to have Plan A, Plan B and probably Plan C as well because if Rohit is in, I don't think anyone can control him. The only batsman I feared in the IPL was Rohit. I have never planned for any other batter in the IPL except Rohit Sharma,” Gautam said while speaking highly of Rohit. ALSO READ: Mohammad Hafeez, ex-Pakistan team director, promises to reveal 'facts' behind his sacking Admitting to worrying about dismissing Rohit cheaply despite having some of the best names in T20 cricket in his ranks, Gautam said if a night before the game he had thought of Plan A, Rohit would better that the next day, leaving Gautam and everyone clueless on how to get him out. "There have been times where I have seen the visuals; I would say fair enough, Plan A is fine, but with Rohit Sharma, probably one night before, I used to think, if this doesn't work, I have to get this, if this doesn't work, I have to get the other plan. If Sunil (Narine) bowls his four overs, who gonna bowl the next 16, and if I finish off Sunil early and Rohit is there, he can get 30 off one over as well," Gambhir said on Star Sports. Tides changed with time Although at one point in time Rohit came across as a destructive top-order batter, scoring heaps of runs at will, the veteran cricketer hasn’t performed enough with bat in the previous two seasons for any captain to feel worried about his presence at the crease. While in IPL 2022, he scored just 268 runs at 19.14, Rohit hit just 332 runs in the following season at a shallow average of 20.75. Moreover, Mumbai Indians have replaced Rohit with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024.

‘I feared him, he gave me sleepless nights’: Gautam Gambhir on facing Rohit Sharma in IPL

<p>Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly and batter Gautam Gambhir praised the India U-19 team after their thrilling win over hosts South Africa in the ICC U-19 World Cup semi-final on Tuesday (Feb 6). Chasing 245, India were in trouble at 32/4 before Player of the Match and skipper Uday Saharan (81) and Sachin Das (96) added 171 runs for the fifth wicket to help India achieve the target. With the win, India reached their record-extending fifth consecutive U-19 World Cup final.</p>

<p>Praising the youngsters, Ganguly wrote on his official X handle: "What a win from being 32 for 4 .. fantastic performance from the young boys .. some good talent in this South African side too @bcci," while Gambhir posted: “Fifth consecutive #U19WC final! Well done boys!” Have a look at the posts below:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a win from being 32 for 4 .. fantastic performance from the young boys .. some good talent in this South African side too <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a></p>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1754897944049033690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fifth consecutive <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19WC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19WC</a> final! Well done boys! 🇮🇳</p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1754902597373468731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking after the win, India U-19 skipper Saharan said: "It is a great feeling to reach the final. We got a taste of close games, and that will be good in the final. We don't let the morale get low in the dressing room at all -- our environment and coaches are superb."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-skipper-ricky-ponting-calls-for-fast-tracking-of-warner-like-batter-jake-fraser-mcgurk-in-australia-687724">Former skipper Ricky Ponting calls for fast-tracking of Warner-like batter Jake Fraser-McGurk in Australia</a></p>

<p>Earlier, South Africa posted 244/5 with Lhuan-dre Pretorius (74) and Richard Seletswane (64) being the top scorers. It was also the first time India conceded 200 runs in the tournament. Raj Limbani was the pick of the bowlers having ended with figures of 60/3 in his nine overs.</p>

<p>The South African players were a bit emotional after the loss and Saharan, in a heartfelt gesture, consoled and hugged his counterpart, Juan James. Have a look at the post below:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India captain Uday Saharan hugged South Africa captain Juan James after the match. Spirit of cricket is alive 🇮🇳🇿🇦❤️❤️❤️❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/zfMA6UvoY1">pic.twitter.com/zfMA6UvoY1</a></p>
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/_FaridKhan/status/1754911061902270723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Boys in Blue will now face the winner of Australia and Pakistan from the second semi-final scheduled to be played on Wednesday (Feb 7). The final of the ICC U-19 World Cup is scheduled to be played on February 11.</p>


Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly and batter Gautam Gambhir praised the India U-19 team after their thrilling win over hosts South Africa in the ICC U-19 World Cup semi-final on Tuesday (Feb 6).

Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly and batter Gautam Gambhir praised the India U-19 team after their thrilling win over hosts South Africa in the ICC U-19 World Cup semi-final on Tuesday (Feb 6). Chasing 245, India were in trouble at 32/4 before Player of the Match and skipper Uday Saharan (81) and Sachin Das (96) added 171 runs for the fifth wicket to help India achieve the target. With the win, India reached their record-extending fifth consecutive U-19 World Cup final. Praising the youngsters, Ganguly wrote on his official X handle: "What a win from being 32 for 4 .. fantastic performance from the young boys .. some good talent in this South African side too @bcci," while Gambhir posted: “Fifth consecutive #U19WC final! Well done boys!” Have a look at the posts below: What a win from being 32 for 4 .. fantastic performance from the young boys .. some good talent in this South African side too @bcci — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) February 6, 2024 × Fifth consecutive #U19WC final! Well done boys! 🇮🇳 — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) February 6, 2024 × Speaking after the win, India U-19 skipper Saharan said: "It is a great feeling to reach the final. We got a taste of close games, and that will be good in the final. We don't let the morale get low in the dressing room at all -- our environment and coaches are superb." Also Read: Former skipper Ricky Ponting calls for fast-tracking of Warner-like batter Jake Fraser-McGurk in Australia Earlier, South Africa posted 244/5 with Lhuan-dre Pretorius (74) and Richard Seletswane (64) being the top scorers. It was also the first time India conceded 200 runs in the tournament. Raj Limbani was the pick of the bowlers having ended with figures of 60/3 in his nine overs. The South African players were a bit emotional after the loss and Saharan, in a heartfelt gesture, consoled and hugged his counterpart, Juan James. Have a look at the post below: India captain Uday Saharan hugged South Africa captain Juan James after the match. Spirit of cricket is alive 🇮🇳🇿🇦❤️❤️❤️❤️ #U19WorldCup pic.twitter.com/zfMA6UvoY1 — Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) February 6, 2024 × The Boys in Blue will now face the winner of Australia and Pakistan from the second semi-final scheduled to be played on Wednesday (Feb 7). The final of the ICC U-19 World Cup is scheduled to be played on February 11.

Sourav Ganguly, Gautam Gambhir post heartfelt praise for India U-19 after thrilling win in WC semi-final vs SA

<p>Former opener Gautam Gambhir has asked the Indian fans not to overhype Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 209 in the first innings of the Vizag Test against England. Gambhir - the last Indian left-hander to complete a Test double ton (in 2008 against Australia), urged everyone to let Jaiswal enjoy his cricket instead of putting pressure on him.</p>

<p>Jaiswal carried his bat on day one, remaining unbeaten on 179. On day two, alongside Ravi Ashwin and the tail, he completed his maiden Test double hundred, hitting a superb 209 off 290 balls. He also became the third youngest batter from the country to unlock this milestone.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That Leap. That Celebration. That Special Feeling 👏 👏<br />
<br />
Here's how Yashasvi Jaiswal notched up his Double Hundred 🎥 🔽<br />
<br />
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/X85JZGt0EV">https://t.co/X85JZGt0EV</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ybj_19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ybj_19</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/CUiikvbQqa">pic.twitter.com/CUiikvbQqa</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1753642860828823782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking about Jaiswal’s whirlwind knock in Vizag, Gambhir said he appreciates his innings but would hold himself back from commenting on his knock only to avoid overburdening him with expectations.</p>

<p>"I want to congratulate the youngster for his achievement, but more importantly, I want to tell everyone that let the young man play. We have seen in the past that in India we have a habit, especially the media, to overhype their achievements and give them tags and make them look like heroes," Gambhir told PTI during an interaction.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-urges-bcci-to-prepare-good-wickets-for-home-series-backs-seamers-to-do-well-in-all-conditions-686692">Ganguly urges BCCI to prepare ‘good wickets’ for home Tests, backs seamers to do well in all conditions</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir added with additional pressure, players often fall short of applying themselves and playing natural shots, which restricts them from scoring freely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The pressure of expectation gets the better of them, and the players are not able to play their natural game. Let him grow and enjoy his cricket," Gambhir added.</p>

<h2>Gambhir backs Iyer, Gill</h2>

<p>Speaking further, Gambhir backed the under-firing pair of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill, who failed to notch big scores in the past few outings in Tests. While both, on selected occasions, have got off to decent starts lately, none has managed to go past the fifty-run mark.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gambhir - having endured such runs in the past, knows how it feels to fall on the other side of things, said both batters are quality players and have proved themselves before with their performances.</p>

<p>"We should give them time as they are quality players, and they have shown it in the past with their performance. That is why they are playing for India," said the former Indian batsman.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India stands tall after the second day’s play in Vizag, leading by 171 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jasprit Bumrah starred for the hosts in the second innings, picking six wickets, including removing Captain Ben Stokes and last game’s hero Ollie Pope.</p>


Former opener Gautam Gambhir has asked the Indian fans not to overhype Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 209 in the first innings of the Vizag Test against England. Gambhir - the last Indian left-hander to complete a Test double ton (in 2008 against Australia), urged everyone to let Jaiswal enjoy his cricket instead of putting pressure on him.

Former opener Gautam Gambhir has asked the Indian fans not to overhype Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 209 in the first innings of the Vizag Test against England. Gambhir - the last Indian left-hander to complete a Test double ton (in 2008 against Australia), urged everyone to let Jaiswal enjoy his cricket instead of putting pressure on him. Jaiswal carried his bat on day one, remaining unbeaten on 179. On day two, alongside Ravi Ashwin and the tail, he completed his maiden Test double hundred, hitting a superb 209 off 290 balls. He also became the third youngest batter from the country to unlock this milestone. That Leap. That Celebration. That Special Feeling 👏 👏 Here's how Yashasvi Jaiswal notched up his Double Hundred 🎥 🔽 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/X85JZGt0EV#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @ybj_19 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/CUiikvbQqa — BCCI (@BCCI) February 3, 2024 × Speaking about Jaiswal’s whirlwind knock in Vizag, Gambhir said he appreciates his innings but would hold himself back from commenting on his knock only to avoid overburdening him with expectations. "I want to congratulate the youngster for his achievement, but more importantly, I want to tell everyone that let the young man play. We have seen in the past that in India we have a habit, especially the media, to overhype their achievements and give them tags and make them look like heroes," Gambhir told PTI during an interaction. ALSO READ: Ganguly urges BCCI to prepare ‘good wickets’ for home Tests, backs seamers to do well in all conditions Gambhir added with additional pressure, players often fall short of applying themselves and playing natural shots, which restricts them from scoring freely. "The pressure of expectation gets the better of them, and the players are not able to play their natural game. Let him grow and enjoy his cricket," Gambhir added. Gambhir backs Iyer, Gill Speaking further, Gambhir backed the under-firing pair of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill, who failed to notch big scores in the past few outings in Tests. While both, on selected occasions, have got off to decent starts lately, none has managed to go past the fifty-run mark. Gambhir - having endured such runs in the past, knows how it feels to fall on the other side of things, said both batters are quality players and have proved themselves before with their performances. "We should give them time as they are quality players, and they have shown it in the past with their performance. That is why they are playing for India," said the former Indian batsman. Meanwhile, India stands tall after the second day’s play in Vizag, leading by 171 runs. Jasprit Bumrah starred for the hosts in the second innings, picking six wickets, including removing Captain Ben Stokes and last game’s hero Ollie Pope.

IND v ENG: Don’t overhype his achievements, let him enjoy his cricket - Gambhir on Jaiswal’s 209

<p>Rinku Singh has become a household name in Indian cricket. Ever since his IPL 2023 blitz&nbsp;for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many Indian cricket fans have followed him and his popularity is growing each day with back-to-back performances while playing for the national side in T20Is. After slamming an impressive 68 not out&nbsp;off 39&nbsp;balls, in India's second and penultimate tie versus hosts South Africa, in&nbsp;Gqeberha, Rinku's consistency while batting lower down the order is being talked about across the nation.</p>

<p>Ahead of the third and final T20I between India and South Africa, Johannesburg on Thursday (Dec 14), former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir hailed Rinku. He feels 'the whole of India is happy' when Rinku gets going.</p>

<h2><strong>'When he does well, it's not just him, but the entire country becomes happy'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking on Star Sports, Gambhir said, "When you come in after a lot of handwork, first-class cricket and you have performed at every single stage, then you value each of your knocks. Then you start every innings like it is your first one, and you won't take anything for granted. Whatever success he gets, I feel, he deserves it. Because Rinku Singh hasn't got anything easily. When he does well, it's not just him, but the entire country becomes happy."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-enjoyed-each-others-success-mohammed-shami-compliments-indias-batters-despite-bowling-prowess-in-wc-669417">We enjoyed each other's success: Mohammed Shami compliments India's batters despite bowling prowess in WC</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about Rinku's 68*, which was his maiden T20I fifty, he came out to bat at No. 5 and took India's score to 180 for 7 in 19.3 overs before rain ended India's innings. The target for the Proteas was 152 in 15 overs, which the Aiden Markram-led side completed in 13.5 overs courtesy of Reeza Hendricks' 49, Markram's 30 and cameos from the lower-middle order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team will look to end the series with a 1-1 scoreline on Thursday. The first T20I was completely washed out in Durban. For Rinku, who has had scores of&nbsp;38 (21), 37* (15), 22* (14), 31* (14), 46 (29), 46 (29), 6 (10) and 68* (39) in his brief T20I career, will look to play another crucial knock for his side in the series decider.&nbsp;</p>


Rinku Singh has become a household name in Indian cricket. Ever since his IPL 2023 blitz for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many Indian cricket fans have followed him and his popularity is growing each day with back-to-back performances while playing for the national side in T20Is.

Rinku Singh has become a household name in Indian cricket. Ever since his IPL 2023 blitz for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many Indian cricket fans have followed him and his popularity is growing each day with back-to-back performances while playing for the national side in T20Is. After slamming an impressive 68 not out off 39 balls, in India's second and penultimate tie versus hosts South Africa, in Gqeberha, Rinku's consistency while batting lower down the order is being talked about across the nation. Ahead of the third and final T20I between India and South Africa, Johannesburg on Thursday (Dec 14), former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir hailed Rinku. He feels 'the whole of India is happy' when Rinku gets going. 'When he does well, it's not just him, but the entire country becomes happy' Speaking on Star Sports, Gambhir said, "When you come in after a lot of handwork, first-class cricket and you have performed at every single stage, then you value each of your knocks. Then you start every innings like it is your first one, and you won't take anything for granted. Whatever success he gets, I feel, he deserves it. Because Rinku Singh hasn't got anything easily. When he does well, it's not just him, but the entire country becomes happy." Also read: We enjoyed each other's success: Mohammed Shami compliments India's batters despite bowling prowess in WC Talking about Rinku's 68*, which was his maiden T20I fifty, he came out to bat at No. 5 and took India's score to 180 for 7 in 19.3 overs before rain ended India's innings. The target for the Proteas was 152 in 15 overs, which the Aiden Markram-led side completed in 13.5 overs courtesy of Reeza Hendricks' 49, Markram's 30 and cameos from the lower-middle order. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team will look to end the series with a 1-1 scoreline on Thursday. The first T20I was completely washed out in Durban. For Rinku, who has had scores of 38 (21), 37* (15), 22* (14), 31* (14), 46 (29), 46 (29), 6 (10) and 68* (39) in his brief T20I career, will look to play another crucial knock for his side in the series decider.

SA vs Ind, T20Is: When Rinku Singh performs well, whole of India becomes happy - Former opener Gautam Gambhir

<p>Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the future of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I format as the Men in Blue take on South Africa. In the absence of big boys like Rohit and Virat, India will start their three-match T20I series against the Proteas on Sunday (Dec 10) in Durban. While fatigue and age are considered crucial factors for team selection in the T20I format, according to Gambhir form should be the only criteria that decides the future of the players.</p>

<h2><strong>Gambhir opens up on Virat, Rohit future</strong></h2>

<p>"See, it all depends on the form. Ultimately, it's the form. Good thing is it's happening after the IPL. 100 per cent. They should be part of the World Cup if they are in good form. For me, form is important. For a T20 World Cup, you want to take players who are in really good form. If Rohit and Virat are in good form, they should absolutely be picked for the World Cup," Gambhir told ANI.</p>

<p>Both Rohit and Virat have not played in the T20I format for India since the conclusion of the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. The match against England in Sydney proved to be the final straw for the duo as they missed the shortest format due to the load management approach of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). However, it is anticipated that both Rohit and Virat are not in the long-term plans of the BCCI in the T20I format as they are considering the next crop of players to carry the baton.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-sit-with-rahul-dravid-and-decide-on-the-tenure-after-south-africa-tour-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-668012">We will sit with Rahul Dravid and decide on the tenure after South Africa tour: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah</a></p>

<h2><strong>Virat, Rohit in good form</strong></h2>

<p>Interestingly, in terms of form, both Virat and Rohit enjoyed a good ODI World Cup with the former being named Player of the Tournament. Virat scored 765 runs in 11 matches at the tournament including nine fifty-plus scores. Rohit was the second-highest run scorer in the tournament with 597 runs in 11 matches. Despite the great form of the duo, India were the second-best team in the World Cup as Australia clinched their sixth title in Ahmedabad with a dominating win.</p>

<p>With the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies on the horizon in 2024, it will be interesting to see if both or either player makes the final squad. The T20 World Cup will be held in West Indies and USA in June with 20 teams participating in the tournament.</p>


Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the future of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I format as the Men in Blue take on South Africa.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the future of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I format as the Men in Blue take on South Africa. In the absence of big boys like Rohit and Virat, India will start their three-match T20I series against the Proteas on Sunday (Dec 10) in Durban. While fatigue and age are considered crucial factors for team selection in the T20I format, according to Gambhir form should be the only criteria that decides the future of the players. Gambhir opens up on Virat, Rohit future "See, it all depends on the form. Ultimately, it's the form. Good thing is it's happening after the IPL. 100 per cent. They should be part of the World Cup if they are in good form. For me, form is important. For a T20 World Cup, you want to take players who are in really good form. If Rohit and Virat are in good form, they should absolutely be picked for the World Cup," Gambhir told ANI. Both Rohit and Virat have not played in the T20I format for India since the conclusion of the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. The match against England in Sydney proved to be the final straw for the duo as they missed the shortest format due to the load management approach of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). However, it is anticipated that both Rohit and Virat are not in the long-term plans of the BCCI in the T20I format as they are considering the next crop of players to carry the baton. ALSO READ | We will sit with Rahul Dravid and decide on the tenure after South Africa tour: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah Virat, Rohit in good form Interestingly, in terms of form, both Virat and Rohit enjoyed a good ODI World Cup with the former being named Player of the Tournament. Virat scored 765 runs in 11 matches at the tournament including nine fifty-plus scores. Rohit was the second-highest run scorer in the tournament with 597 runs in 11 matches. Despite the great form of the duo, India were the second-best team in the World Cup as Australia clinched their sixth title in Ahmedabad with a dominating win. With the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies on the horizon in 2024, it will be interesting to see if both or either player makes the final squad. The T20 World Cup will be held in West Indies and USA in June with 20 teams participating in the tournament.

Gautam Gambhir sets THIS parameter for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s exclusion from T20I format

<p>Following the ugly spat between two ex-India cricketers, S Sreesanth and Gautam Gambhir, in the Legends League Cricket (LLC) on Wednesday, the pacer hit back at Gambhir on his cryptic social media post, calling him arrogant and an utterly classless individual. Sreesanth harshly responded to Gautam's social media post, expressing his displeasure with Gambhir's uncalled-for attitude against him on the cricket field.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH THE VIDEO HERE -</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heated conversation between Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth in the LLC. <a href="https://t.co/Cjl99SWAWK">pic.twitter.com/Cjl99SWAWK</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1732608930583642556?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier in a recorded video, Sreesanth narrated what happened between the two on the field before unveiling every detail of their ugly conversation on Instagram Live.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The seamer revealed that, without being provoked, Gautam took a scathing attack on him, using cuss words and even calling him a fixer.</p>

<p>After Sreesanth posted a video of him thanking everyone for the support during his dark days (when he was out of cricket over IPL spot-fixing allegations), Gautam Gambhir posted a picture of him smiling, with a caption, 'Smile when the world is all about attention!</p>

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<p>Replying to the same post, Sreesanth took down Gautam, thrashing him over below-the-belt remarks and even for using cuss words for the pacer and the umpires involved in that incident.</p>

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<p>Sreesanth replied, 'You have exceeded the boundaries of a sportsman and a brother, and above all, you represent the people. Yet, you continue to engage in conflicts with every cricketer. What is the matter with you? All I did was smile and observe, and you labelled me a fixer? Seriously? Are you above the Supreme Court?'&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/selectors-keen-on-playing-ishan-kishan-ahead-of-virat-kohli-at-number-3-in-2024-t20-world-cup-reports-667283">Selectors keen on playing Ishan Kishan ahead of Virat Kohli at number 3 in 2024 T20 World Cup - Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Disappointed with how Gambhir, who holds a reputation of engaging in uncalled-for verbal spats, both on and off the field, Sreesanth added,</p>

<p>'You have no authority to speak in such a manner and say whatever you please. You even verbally abused the umpires, and yet you speak of smiling? You are an arrogant and utterly classless individual who lacks any form of respect for those who supported you.'</p>

<p>Sreesanth added he always kept Gambhir and his family in high regard, but after what unfolded between the two, he will never forgive his former World Cup-winning partner.</p>

<p>' Until yesterday, I always held respect for you and your family. However, you used the derogatory term "fixer" not just once, but seven or eight times. You even resorted to using the F-word towards the umpires and myself, persistently trying to provoke me. Anyone who has experienced what I have endured would never forgive you. Deep down, you know that what you said and did was wrong. I'm sure even God won't forgive you. You didn't even come to the field after that. Come on, God is watching everything,' Sreesanth concluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Sreesanth's reply to Gautam Gambhir on his post" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e5c19a88-31c6-44ac-a123-91e09e92de0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-07T214947.934.png" /></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gambhir is the captain of India Capitals, and Sreesanth represents Gujarat Giants in the T20 tournament. Capitals won the match by 12 runs.&nbsp;</p>


Following the ugly spat between two ex-India cricketers, S Sreesanth and Gautam Gambhir, in the Legends League Cricket (LLC) on Wednesday, the pacer hit back at Gambhir on his cryptic social media post, calling him arrogant and an utterly classless individual.

Following the ugly spat between two ex-India cricketers, S Sreesanth and Gautam Gambhir, in the Legends League Cricket (LLC) on Wednesday, the pacer hit back at Gambhir on his cryptic social media post, calling him arrogant and an utterly classless individual. Sreesanth harshly responded to Gautam's social media post, expressing his displeasure with Gambhir's uncalled-for attitude against him on the cricket field. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE - Heated conversation between Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth in the LLC. pic.twitter.com/Cjl99SWAWK — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 7, 2023 × Earlier in a recorded video, Sreesanth narrated what happened between the two on the field before unveiling every detail of their ugly conversation on Instagram Live. The seamer revealed that, without being provoked, Gautam took a scathing attack on him, using cuss words and even calling him a fixer. After Sreesanth posted a video of him thanking everyone for the support during his dark days (when he was out of cricket over IPL spot-fixing allegations), Gautam Gambhir posted a picture of him smiling, with a caption, 'Smile when the world is all about attention! View this post on Instagram A post shared by SREE SANTH (@sreesanthnair36) × Replying to the same post, Sreesanth took down Gautam, thrashing him over below-the-belt remarks and even for using cuss words for the pacer and the umpires involved in that incident. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gautam Gambhir (@gautamgambhir55) × Sreesanth replied, 'You have exceeded the boundaries of a sportsman and a brother, and above all, you represent the people. Yet, you continue to engage in conflicts with every cricketer. What is the matter with you? All I did was smile and observe, and you labelled me a fixer? Seriously? Are you above the Supreme Court?' ALSO READ: Selectors keen on playing Ishan Kishan ahead of Virat Kohli at number 3 in 2024 T20 World Cup - Reports Disappointed with how Gambhir, who holds a reputation of engaging in uncalled-for verbal spats, both on and off the field, Sreesanth added, 'You have no authority to speak in such a manner and say whatever you please. You even verbally abused the umpires, and yet you speak of smiling? You are an arrogant and utterly classless individual who lacks any form of respect for those who supported you.' Sreesanth added he always kept Gambhir and his family in high regard, but after what unfolded between the two, he will never forgive his former World Cup-winning partner. ' Until yesterday, I always held respect for you and your family. However, you used the derogatory term "fixer" not just once, but seven or eight times. You even resorted to using the F-word towards the umpires and myself, persistently trying to provoke me. Anyone who has experienced what I have endured would never forgive you. Deep down, you know that what you said and did was wrong. I'm sure even God won't forgive you. You didn't even come to the field after that. Come on, God is watching everything,' Sreesanth concluded. Meanwhile, Gambhir is the captain of India Capitals, and Sreesanth represents Gujarat Giants in the T20 tournament. Capitals won the match by 12 runs.

'You are an arrogant and utterly classless individual...' - Sreesanth responds to Gambhir's cryptic post

<p>In a fresh blow, former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has been issued a legal notice by the Legends League Cricket (LLC) commissioner in the 'fixer' row. On Thursday (Dec 7), news broke that Gautam Gambhir called Sreesanth a 'fixer' during their heated altercation in the LLC Eliminator between the India Capitals and Gujarat Giants in Surat.</p>

<p>After their heated exchange, Sreesanth soon shared a video on Instagram where he dwelled on his fight with Gambhir on the field. The former Indian speedster then made some serious allegations where he mentioned Gambhir insulted him with some harsh usage of words. At first, he didn't reveal what exactly was told by Gambhir. Soon, the former Indian opener shared a cryptic post, in response to Sreesanth's claims, which provoked the pacer to reveal that he was called a 'fixer' by Gambhir. In addition, he claimed that the batter abused Sreesanth in the middle.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-sreesanth-slams-mr-fighter-gambhir-after-heated-face-off-in-llc-eliminator-makes-serious-claims-667093">WATCH: Sreesanth SLAMS 'Mr. Fighter' Gambhir after heated face-off in LLC Eliminator, makes serious claims</a></strong></p>

<p>As Gambhir and Sreesanth's exchange has become the talk of the Indian cricket fraternity, the LLC commissioner has stepped in and issued a legal notice to the latter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The notice claimed&nbsp;that Sreesanth was guilty of breaching his contract while playing in the T20 tournament. In addition, it&nbsp;stated that talks with the pacer will only&nbsp;commence once he removes the videos slamming Gambhir.</p>

<p>The umpires&nbsp;who tried to play mediators also sent their report on the controversy. However, there was no&nbsp;mention&nbsp;of Sreesanth’s claims of being called a ‘fixer’ by Gambhir. Later on Thursday evening, Sreesanth replied to Gambhir's post and continued to slam him, calling him an 'arrogant' and 'utterly classless individual'.</p>

<p>Amid all this, his wife Vidihita also joined in to slam Gambhir. She shared a post&nbsp;on Instagram and wrote, "It is so shocking to hear from Sree that a player who has played for India with him for many years can stoop to this level. Even after so many years of retirement from active cricket. After all, upbringing matters a lot and it shows up when this kind of behaviour comes up on ground. Shocking truly shocking."&nbsp;</p>


In a fresh blow, former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has been issued a legal notice by the Legends League Cricket (LLC) commissioner in the 'fixer' row. On Thursday (Dec 7), news broke that Gautam Gambhir called Sreesanth a 'fixer' during their heated altercation in the LLC Eliminator between the India Capitals and Gujarat Giants in Surat.

In a fresh blow, former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has been issued a legal notice by the Legends League Cricket (LLC) commissioner in the 'fixer' row. On Thursday (Dec 7), news broke that Gautam Gambhir called Sreesanth a 'fixer' during their heated altercation in the LLC Eliminator between the India Capitals and Gujarat Giants in Surat. After their heated exchange, Sreesanth soon shared a video on Instagram where he dwelled on his fight with Gambhir on the field. The former Indian speedster then made some serious allegations where he mentioned Gambhir insulted him with some harsh usage of words. At first, he didn't reveal what exactly was told by Gambhir. Soon, the former Indian opener shared a cryptic post, in response to Sreesanth's claims, which provoked the pacer to reveal that he was called a 'fixer' by Gambhir. In addition, he claimed that the batter abused Sreesanth in the middle. Also read: WATCH: Sreesanth SLAMS 'Mr. Fighter' Gambhir after heated face-off in LLC Eliminator, makes serious claims As Gambhir and Sreesanth's exchange has become the talk of the Indian cricket fraternity, the LLC commissioner has stepped in and issued a legal notice to the latter. The notice claimed that Sreesanth was guilty of breaching his contract while playing in the T20 tournament. In addition, it stated that talks with the pacer will only commence once he removes the videos slamming Gambhir. The umpires who tried to play mediators also sent their report on the controversy. However, there was no mention of Sreesanth’s claims of being called a ‘fixer’ by Gambhir. Later on Thursday evening, Sreesanth replied to Gambhir's post and continued to slam him, calling him an 'arrogant' and 'utterly classless individual'. Amid all this, his wife Vidihita also joined in to slam Gambhir. She shared a post on Instagram and wrote, "It is so shocking to hear from Sree that a player who has played for India with him for many years can stoop to this level. Even after so many years of retirement from active cricket. After all, upbringing matters a lot and it shows up when this kind of behaviour comes up on ground. Shocking truly shocking."

Sreesanth vs Gambhir spat: Former India pacer issued legal notice by LLC commissioner over 'fixer' row

<p>Former India opener and World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir has opened up on his feuds with Virat Kohli and Sreesanth as he continues to lure the attention of the cricketing fraternity. Gambhir, recently in the news for his latest row with former speedster&nbsp;Sreesanth stated that he backs his players and no one can walk over them. Earlier this year during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Gambhir was involved in a spat with former India captain Virat Kohli when Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) met Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).</p>

<h2><strong>Gambhir defends action</strong></h2>

<p>"As a mentor, no one can come and walk over my players, and I have a very different belief. Until the game was on, I had no right to interfere. Once the game is over and someone still gets into a heated argument with my players, I have all the right to defend them," Gambhir said on the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash.</p>

<p>On Monday (Dec 4), Sreesanth alleged that Gambhir called him a fixer during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) eliminator clash. He then took to his social media handles to call out Gambhir for his actions.</p>

<p>On the field, both Gambhir and Sreesanth were separated by the on-field umpires. The LLC management has now moved swiftly and has launched an investigation into&nbsp;the incident. They have also stated that there will be swift action taken if either player is found guilty.</p>

<p>The LLC also issued a legal notice to Sreesanth on Friday as they continue to resolve the issue ahead of Saturday’s final.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-v-ind-world-cup-bound-star-players-yet-to-join-team-in-south-africa-deepak-chahar-doubtful-667534">SA v IND: World Cup-bound star players yet to join team in South Africa; Deepak Chahar doubtful</a></p>

<h2><strong>What happened during the IPL?</strong></h2>

<p>In May 2023, an altercation took place between Virat Kohli and Naveen-ul-Haq during the RCB and LSG clash in Lucknow. Both players were seen exchanging words on the field during the contest as RCB emerged victorious by 18 runs. However, Gambhir acting as a mentor in the LSG dugout came out and got involved in a spat with Kohli as he defended Naveen-ul-Haq. Both Kohli and Gambhir were seen going head-to-head before both were separated by players and umpires.</p>


Former India opener and World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir has opened up on his feuds with Virat Kohli and Sreesanth as he continues to lure the attention of the cricketing fraternity.

Former India opener and World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir has opened up on his feuds with Virat Kohli and Sreesanth as he continues to lure the attention of the cricketing fraternity. Gambhir, recently in the news for his latest row with former speedster Sreesanth stated that he backs his players and no one can walk over them. Earlier this year during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Gambhir was involved in a spat with former India captain Virat Kohli when Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) met Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Gambhir defends action "As a mentor, no one can come and walk over my players, and I have a very different belief. Until the game was on, I had no right to interfere. Once the game is over and someone still gets into a heated argument with my players, I have all the right to defend them," Gambhir said on the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash. On Monday (Dec 4), Sreesanth alleged that Gambhir called him a fixer during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) eliminator clash. He then took to his social media handles to call out Gambhir for his actions. On the field, both Gambhir and Sreesanth were separated by the on-field umpires. The LLC management has now moved swiftly and has launched an investigation into the incident. They have also stated that there will be swift action taken if either player is found guilty. The LLC also issued a legal notice to Sreesanth on Friday as they continue to resolve the issue ahead of Saturday’s final. ALSO READ | SA v IND: World Cup-bound star players yet to join team in South Africa; Deepak Chahar doubtful What happened during the IPL? In May 2023, an altercation took place between Virat Kohli and Naveen-ul-Haq during the RCB and LSG clash in Lucknow. Both players were seen exchanging words on the field during the contest as RCB emerged victorious by 18 runs. However, Gambhir acting as a mentor in the LSG dugout came out and got involved in a spat with Kohli as he defended Naveen-ul-Haq. Both Kohli and Gambhir were seen going head-to-head before both were separated by players and umpires.

Gautam Gambhir opens up on volatile on-field feuds, says 'no one can come and walk over my players'

<p>Former India teammates Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth got involved in a heated exchange during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2023 Eliminator between India Capitals and Gujarat Giants at the Lalabhai Contractor Stadium, Surat on Wednesday (Dec 6). The incident took place during the second over of the match when Gambhir smacked the pacer for a six and a four.&nbsp;After the next ball was hit to the fielder for no run, tempers flared between the duo.</p>

<p>After the match, Sreesanth shared a video that went viral on social media&nbsp;where he dwelled into the whole face-off&nbsp;and levied some serious allegations against Gambhir. It is to be noted that Sreesanth did not reveal the exact details of the 'rude' things Gambhir said, however, he has promised&nbsp;to reveal them soon. The former Indian speedster maintained that Gambhir's actions were uncalled for and without any provocation from his end.</p>

<p>Sreesanth said in a video posted on his Instagram handle, "Just wanted to clear the air with what happened with Mr. Fighter. One who always fights with all his colleagues. For no reason whatsoever. He does not even respect his senior players, including Viru bhai. That's exactly what happened today. Without any provocation, he just kept on calling me something which was very rude which shouldn't have been said by Mr. Gautam Gambhir."</p>

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<h2><strong>'My family, my state, everybody has gone through so much'</strong></h2>

<p>Sreesanth further mentioned, "I am not at all at fault here. I just wanted to clear the air straightaway. What Mr. Gauti has done, sooner or later all of you will get to know. The words which he used and the things he said on a cricket field, live, is not acceptable. My family, my state, everybody has gone through so much. I fought that battle with all your support. Now people want to down me for no reason. He said things he shouldn’t have said. I will surely let you know what he said."</p>

<p>The former quickie also highlighted how Gambhir never appreciates Virat Kohli on-air and revealed,&nbsp;"What's the point of representing people if you don't respect your own colleagues? Even in broadcasting when he is asked about Virat, he never speaks about him. He speaks about something else. I don't want to go further in detail. Just want to say I am very hurt and my family is hurt and my dear ones are hurt. " He added, "And the way he said things… I haven't used a single bad word or a single abuse. He just kept on saying words which he always does."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ca-apologises-after-racist-term-used-in-scorecard-during-pakistans-warm-up-test-vs-pms-xi-667075">CA apologises after racist term used in scorecard during Pakistan's warm-up Test vs PM's XI</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here is the video of Sreesanth-Gambhir's face-off:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Some heated conversation between Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth in the LLC. <a href="https://t.co/1MZFHA1MFz">pic.twitter.com/1MZFHA1MFz</a></p>
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImTanujSingh/status/1732615899583234090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>It will be interesting to see how Gambhir responds to Sreesanth's allegations. He has had a history of being involved in several on-field fights with Shane Watson, Virat Kohli, etc. whereas often many have felt he has been&nbsp;insecure&nbsp;of MS Dhoni, his former India captain.</p>

<p>Talking about the LLC Eliminator, India Capitals rode on captain Gambhir's 51 (30), Kevin Pietersen's 26 (15), Ricardo Powell's 28 (22), Ben Dunk's 30 (10) and Bharath Chipli's 35 (16) to post a mammoth 223/7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Parthiv Patel-led Giants managed 211 for 7 -- despite Chris Gayle's 84 (55) and Kevin O'Brien's 57 (33) -- to lose by 12 runs and bow out of the competition.&nbsp;</p>


Former India teammates Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth got involved in a heated exchange during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2023 Eliminator between India Capitals and Gujarat Giants at the Lalabhai Contractor Stadium, Surat on Wednesday (Dec 6).

Former India teammates Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth got involved in a heated exchange during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2023 Eliminator between India Capitals and Gujarat Giants at the Lalabhai Contractor Stadium, Surat on Wednesday (Dec 6). The incident took place during the second over of the match when Gambhir smacked the pacer for a six and a four. After the next ball was hit to the fielder for no run, tempers flared between the duo. After the match, Sreesanth shared a video that went viral on social media where he dwelled into the whole face-off and levied some serious allegations against Gambhir. It is to be noted that Sreesanth did not reveal the exact details of the 'rude' things Gambhir said, however, he has promised to reveal them soon. The former Indian speedster maintained that Gambhir's actions were uncalled for and without any provocation from his end. Sreesanth said in a video posted on his Instagram handle, "Just wanted to clear the air with what happened with Mr. Fighter. One who always fights with all his colleagues. For no reason whatsoever. He does not even respect his senior players, including Viru bhai. That's exactly what happened today. Without any provocation, he just kept on calling me something which was very rude which shouldn't have been said by Mr. Gautam Gambhir." View this post on Instagram A post shared by SREE SANTH (@sreesanthnair36) × 'My family, my state, everybody has gone through so much' Sreesanth further mentioned, "I am not at all at fault here. I just wanted to clear the air straightaway. What Mr. Gauti has done, sooner or later all of you will get to know. The words which he used and the things he said on a cricket field, live, is not acceptable. My family, my state, everybody has gone through so much. I fought that battle with all your support. Now people want to down me for no reason. He said things he shouldn’t have said. I will surely let you know what he said." The former quickie also highlighted how Gambhir never appreciates Virat Kohli on-air and revealed, "What's the point of representing people if you don't respect your own colleagues? Even in broadcasting when he is asked about Virat, he never speaks about him. He speaks about something else. I don't want to go further in detail. Just want to say I am very hurt and my family is hurt and my dear ones are hurt. " He added, "And the way he said things… I haven't used a single bad word or a single abuse. He just kept on saying words which he always does." Also read: CA apologises after racist term used in scorecard during Pakistan's warm-up Test vs PM's XI Here is the video of Sreesanth-Gambhir's face-off: Some heated conversation between Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth in the LLC. pic.twitter.com/1MZFHA1MFz — CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) December 7, 2023 × It will be interesting to see how Gambhir responds to Sreesanth's allegations. He has had a history of being involved in several on-field fights with Shane Watson, Virat Kohli, etc. whereas often many have felt he has been insecure of MS Dhoni, his former India captain. Talking about the LLC Eliminator, India Capitals rode on captain Gambhir's 51 (30), Kevin Pietersen's 26 (15), Ricardo Powell's 28 (22), Ben Dunk's 30 (10) and Bharath Chipli's 35 (16) to post a mammoth 223/7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Parthiv Patel-led Giants managed 211 for 7 -- despite Chris Gayle's 84 (55) and Kevin O'Brien's 57 (33) -- to lose by 12 runs and bow out of the competition.

WATCH: Sreesanth SLAMS 'Mr. Fighter' Gambhir after heated face-off in LLC Eliminator, makes serious claims

<p>On Wednesday (Dec 6), former India teammates Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth were involved in a heated exchange during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) Eliminator between India Capitals and Gujarat Giants at the Lalabhai Contractor Stadium, Surat.&nbsp;It all happened during the second over of the match, eventually won by the&nbsp;Capitals,&nbsp;when the former Indian opener&nbsp;took on&nbsp;pacer Sreesanth;&nbsp;scoring&nbsp;a six and a four on successive balls.&nbsp;Later, tempers flared between the duo after the end of the over.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the video of their altercation:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heated conversation between Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth in the LLC. <a href="https://t.co/Cjl99SWAWK">pic.twitter.com/Cjl99SWAWK</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1732608930583642556?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>After the match, Sreesanth slammed Gambhir and accused him of demeaning him on the field with some harsh words. Sreesanth revealed he didn't provoke Gambhir and had not uttered anything abusive before being on the receiving end. On Friday morning (Dec 7), Gambhir responded to Sreesanth's claims with a cryptic post. <strong>Here is what he wrote on X, formerly Twitter:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Smile when the world is all about attention! <a href="https://t.co/GCvbl7dpnX">pic.twitter.com/GCvbl7dpnX</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1732641127193542902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Soon, Sreesanth revealed during an Instagram live that he was called 'fixer' by Gambhir -- referring to the pacer being framed for the infamous IPL 2013 spot-fixing saga -- during their war of words.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sreesanth cleared in insta live that gambhir called him fixer <a href="https://t.co/YDZQHL2Nqk">pic.twitter.com/YDZQHL2Nqk</a></p>
— Pushkar (@musafir_hu_yar) <a href="https://twitter.com/musafir_hu_yar/status/1732653610826453066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>'Mr. Fighter Gambhir&nbsp;kept calling me something which was very rude'</strong></h2>

<p>After the LLC Eliminator, the 40-year-old Sreesanth had claimed in a video, shared on Instagram, "Just wanted to clear the air with what happened with Mr. Fighter. One who always fights with all his colleagues. For no reason whatsoever. He does not even respect his senior players, including Viru bhai. That's exactly what happened today. Without any provocation, he just kept on calling me something which was very rude which shouldn't have been said by Mr. Gautam Gambhir."</p>

<p>He further mentioned, "I am not at all at fault here. I just wanted to clear the air straightaway. What Mr. Gauti has done, sooner or later all of you will get to know. The words which he used and the things he said on a cricket field, live, is not acceptable. My family, my state, everybody has gone through so much. I fought that battle with all your support. Now people want to down me for no reason. He said things he shouldn’t have said. I will surely let you know what he said."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-sreesanth-slams-mr-fighter-gambhir-after-heated-face-off-in-llc-eliminator-makes-serious-claims-667093">WATCH: Sreesanth SLAMS 'Mr. Fighter' Gambhir after heated face-off in LLC Eliminator, makes serious claims</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indian quickie went on to say, "What's the point of representing people if you don't respect your own colleagues? Even in broadcasting when he is asked about Virat, he never speaks about him. He speaks about something else. I don't want to go further in detail. "</p>

<p>Sreesanth added, "Just want to say I am very hurt and my family is hurt and my dear ones are hurt. And the way he said things… I haven't used a single bad word or a single abuse. He just kept on saying words which he always does."</p>

<p>Talking about the LLC Eliminator, the Capitals rode on skipper Gambhir's 51 (30), Kevin Pietersen's 26 (15), Ricardo Powell's 28 (22), Ben Dunk's 30 (10) and Bharath Chipli's 35 (16) to post a mammoth 223/7 in 20 overs. In response, the Parthiv Patel-led Giants fell short and ended with&nbsp;211 for 7 -- despite Chris Gayle's 84 (55) and Kevin O'Brien's 57 (33) -- to lose by 12 runs.</p>


On Wednesday (Dec 6), former India teammates Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth were involved in a heated exchange during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) Eliminator between India Capitals and Gujarat Giants at the Lalabhai Contractor Stadium, Surat.

On Wednesday (Dec 6), former India teammates Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth were involved in a heated exchange during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) Eliminator between India Capitals and Gujarat Giants at the Lalabhai Contractor Stadium, Surat. It all happened during the second over of the match, eventually won by the Capitals, when the former Indian opener took on pacer Sreesanth; scoring a six and a four on successive balls. Later, tempers flared between the duo after the end of the over. Here is the video of their altercation: Heated conversation between Gautam Gambhir and S Sreesanth in the LLC. pic.twitter.com/Cjl99SWAWK — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 7, 2023 × After the match, Sreesanth slammed Gambhir and accused him of demeaning him on the field with some harsh words. Sreesanth revealed he didn't provoke Gambhir and had not uttered anything abusive before being on the receiving end. On Friday morning (Dec 7), Gambhir responded to Sreesanth's claims with a cryptic post. Here is what he wrote on X, formerly Twitter: Smile when the world is all about attention! pic.twitter.com/GCvbl7dpnX — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) December 7, 2023 × Soon, Sreesanth revealed during an Instagram live that he was called 'fixer' by Gambhir -- referring to the pacer being framed for the infamous IPL 2013 spot-fixing saga -- during their war of words. Sreesanth cleared in insta live that gambhir called him fixer pic.twitter.com/YDZQHL2Nqk — Pushkar (@musafir_hu_yar) December 7, 2023 × 'Mr. Fighter Gambhir kept calling me something which was very rude' After the LLC Eliminator, the 40-year-old Sreesanth had claimed in a video, shared on Instagram, "Just wanted to clear the air with what happened with Mr. Fighter. One who always fights with all his colleagues. For no reason whatsoever. He does not even respect his senior players, including Viru bhai. That's exactly what happened today. Without any provocation, he just kept on calling me something which was very rude which shouldn't have been said by Mr. Gautam Gambhir." He further mentioned, "I am not at all at fault here. I just wanted to clear the air straightaway. What Mr. Gauti has done, sooner or later all of you will get to know. The words which he used and the things he said on a cricket field, live, is not acceptable. My family, my state, everybody has gone through so much. I fought that battle with all your support. Now people want to down me for no reason. He said things he shouldn’t have said. I will surely let you know what he said." Also read: WATCH: Sreesanth SLAMS 'Mr. Fighter' Gambhir after heated face-off in LLC Eliminator, makes serious claims The Indian quickie went on to say, "What's the point of representing people if you don't respect your own colleagues? Even in broadcasting when he is asked about Virat, he never speaks about him. He speaks about something else. I don't want to go further in detail. " Sreesanth added, "Just want to say I am very hurt and my family is hurt and my dear ones are hurt. And the way he said things… I haven't used a single bad word or a single abuse. He just kept on saying words which he always does." Talking about the LLC Eliminator, the Capitals rode on skipper Gambhir's 51 (30), Kevin Pietersen's 26 (15), Ricardo Powell's 28 (22), Ben Dunk's 30 (10) and Bharath Chipli's 35 (16) to post a mammoth 223/7 in 20 overs. In response, the Parthiv Patel-led Giants fell short and ended with 211 for 7 -- despite Chris Gayle's 84 (55) and Kevin O'Brien's 57 (33) -- to lose by 12 runs.

Gautam Gambhir responds to S Sreesanth's claims with cryptic post, latter reveals ex-opener called him 'FIXER'

<p>Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir feels India were not brave enough with the bat in the middle overs which cost them dearly in the ODI World Cup final loss versus Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad. Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. They were 82 for 3 after 10 overs but they went into a shell and only managed four boundaries (not even a single six) for the rest of the 40 overs. The middle overs, from 11 to 40, saw Indian batters hit only two fours and, thus, India ended with 240 in 50 overs, which was eventually chased down by Australia with&nbsp;six wickets in hand&nbsp;in 43 overs.</p>

<p>Thus, Gambhir believes India's timid show with the bat in the middle overs resulted in their big loss. Speaking to Sportskeeda, the 2011 ODI WC winner said, "It's a double-edged sword. But I have always said this, the most courageous team will go on to win the World Cup. I can understand that you need time to build a partnership but 11 to 40 overs is a very, very long time. Someone should have taken that risk."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-india-player-suresh-raina-shares-two-reasons-for-indias-defeat-in-od-wc-final-vs-australia-661362">Former India player Suresh Raina shares TWO REASONS for India's defeat in ODI WC final vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir further pointed out, "I would have actually liked India going really aggressive with their top 6-7 batters even if they had been all out for 150. I would have been fine. But if you feel you can defend 240 in a World Cup final...that is not where you fight. It is either this way or that. Either we go 150 all out or 300. That is where India have lacked. That is where India have not gone on to win ICC tournaments. Rohit should have sent the message before the game that even if I get out we should go aggressive."</p>

<p>Gambhir felt that since Virat Kohli -- who ended with most runs in the 2023 edition (765) -- was playing the role of an anchor, other batters should have been more aggressive. "Kohli has played a role of anchoring the innings, but the rest all should have been aggressive. KL should have gone. What harm would it have caused? We would have been 150 all out. But had we been brave, we could scored 310 and India would have been world champions. This is not the 1990s. 240 is not a good score at all. You need 300-plus totals. India were not brave enough," Gambhir added.</p>

<p>Being all-out for 240 in 50 overs, India had Australia reeling at 47 for 3 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not out took their side home with seven overs to spare. With the win, Australia lifted their sixth ODI WC trophy.&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir feels India were not brave enough with the bat in the middle overs which cost them dearly in the ODI World Cup final loss versus Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir feels India were not brave enough with the bat in the middle overs which cost them dearly in the ODI World Cup final loss versus Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad. Rohit Sharma-led India were asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. They were 82 for 3 after 10 overs but they went into a shell and only managed four boundaries (not even a single six) for the rest of the 40 overs. The middle overs, from 11 to 40, saw Indian batters hit only two fours and, thus, India ended with 240 in 50 overs, which was eventually chased down by Australia with six wickets in hand in 43 overs. Thus, Gambhir believes India's timid show with the bat in the middle overs resulted in their big loss. Speaking to Sportskeeda, the 2011 ODI WC winner said, "It's a double-edged sword. But I have always said this, the most courageous team will go on to win the World Cup. I can understand that you need time to build a partnership but 11 to 40 overs is a very, very long time. Someone should have taken that risk." Also read: Former India player Suresh Raina shares TWO REASONS for India's defeat in ODI WC final vs Australia Gambhir further pointed out, "I would have actually liked India going really aggressive with their top 6-7 batters even if they had been all out for 150. I would have been fine. But if you feel you can defend 240 in a World Cup final...that is not where you fight. It is either this way or that. Either we go 150 all out or 300. That is where India have lacked. That is where India have not gone on to win ICC tournaments. Rohit should have sent the message before the game that even if I get out we should go aggressive." Gambhir felt that since Virat Kohli -- who ended with most runs in the 2023 edition (765) -- was playing the role of an anchor, other batters should have been more aggressive. "Kohli has played a role of anchoring the innings, but the rest all should have been aggressive. KL should have gone. What harm would it have caused? We would have been 150 all out. But had we been brave, we could scored 310 and India would have been world champions. This is not the 1990s. 240 is not a good score at all. You need 300-plus totals. India were not brave enough," Gambhir added. Being all-out for 240 in 50 overs, India had Australia reeling at 47 for 3 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not out took their side home with seven overs to spare. With the win, Australia lifted their sixth ODI WC trophy.

Gautam Gambhir feels India's timid batting in middle-overs cost them in CWC 2023 final vs Australia

<p>Gautam Gambhir has decided to part ways with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Gambhir was the mentor for LSG for the 2021 and 2022 seasons and will now be joining Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the same capacity. Notably, Gambhir has previously been with the KKR as a player and mentor, and this would be his second stint with them. Gambhir was also the skipper of KKR when the franchise won the IPL title in 2012 and 2014.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-mini-auction-scheduled-for-december-19-purse-limit-increased-by-600000-651797">IPL 2024 mini-auction scheduled for December 19, purse limit increased by $600,000</a></p>

<p>Gambhir announced his departure from the IPL side via a social media post&nbsp;on his official X handle. Gambhir wrote: "As I announce the end of my impeccable journey with Lucknow Super Giants, I am filled with love and immense gratitude towards all the players, coaches, support staff and every individual who has made this journey memorable. I would like to thank Dr. Sanjiv Goenka for his inspiring leadership while creating this remarkable franchise and for his tremendous support to all my endeavours. I'm sure that the team will do wonders in the future and will make every LSG fan proud. All the very best LSG brigade!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">❤️❤️ LSG Brigade! <a href="https://t.co/xfG3YBu6l4">pic.twitter.com/xfG3YBu6l4</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1727201647737421861?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>KKR, on the other hand, welcomed Gambhir with a post by part owner and Bollywood celebrity Shah Rukh Khan, which read, "Gautam has always been part of the family and this is our Captain coming back home in a different avatar as a "Mentor". He was sorely missed and now we all look forward to Chandu Sir and Gautam in instilling the never-say-die spirit and of sportsmanship they stand for, in creating magic with Team KKR."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome back to the Fam, <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a>! 💜<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GautamGambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GautamGambhir</a> <a href="https://t.co/Lsxa8EpF10">pic.twitter.com/Lsxa8EpF10</a></p>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1727207097056817581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking on his return to the side, Gambhir, as per a KKR release, said: "I am not an emotional person and not many things move me. But this is different. This is back to where it all started. Today, there is a lump in my throat and fire in my heart as I think about slipping into that purple and gold jersey once again. I am not only coming back to KKR but I am coming back to the city of joy. I am back. I am hungry. I am number 23. Ami KKR."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Your words have made us 🥹🥹🥹, <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GautamGambhir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GautamGambhir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GGisBack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GGisBack</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wj49jIj0rt">pic.twitter.com/Wj49jIj0rt</a></p>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1727210023041069120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Gambhir's first assignment with the KKR will be the upcoming mini-auction on December 19 where KKR have a purse of US $0.2 million or INR 1.65 crore to spend.</p>


Gautam Gambhir has decided to part ways with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Gambhir was the mentor for LSG for the 2021 and 2022 seasons and will now be joining Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the same capacity.

Gautam Gambhir has decided to part ways with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Gambhir was the mentor for LSG for the 2021 and 2022 seasons and will now be joining Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the same capacity. Notably, Gambhir has previously been with the KKR as a player and mentor, and this would be his second stint with them. Gambhir was also the skipper of KKR when the franchise won the IPL title in 2012 and 2014. Also Read: IPL 2024 mini-auction scheduled for December 19, purse limit increased by $600,000 Gambhir announced his departure from the IPL side via a social media post on his official X handle. Gambhir wrote: "As I announce the end of my impeccable journey with Lucknow Super Giants, I am filled with love and immense gratitude towards all the players, coaches, support staff and every individual who has made this journey memorable. I would like to thank Dr. Sanjiv Goenka for his inspiring leadership while creating this remarkable franchise and for his tremendous support to all my endeavours. I'm sure that the team will do wonders in the future and will make every LSG fan proud. All the very best LSG brigade!" ❤️❤️ LSG Brigade! pic.twitter.com/xfG3YBu6l4 — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) November 22, 2023 × KKR, on the other hand, welcomed Gambhir with a post by part owner and Bollywood celebrity Shah Rukh Khan, which read, "Gautam has always been part of the family and this is our Captain coming back home in a different avatar as a "Mentor". He was sorely missed and now we all look forward to Chandu Sir and Gautam in instilling the never-say-die spirit and of sportsmanship they stand for, in creating magic with Team KKR." Welcome back to the Fam, @GautamGambhir! 💜#AmiKKR #SRK #GautamGambhir pic.twitter.com/Lsxa8EpF10 — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 22, 2023 × Speaking on his return to the side, Gambhir, as per a KKR release, said: "I am not an emotional person and not many things move me. But this is different. This is back to where it all started. Today, there is a lump in my throat and fire in my heart as I think about slipping into that purple and gold jersey once again. I am not only coming back to KKR but I am coming back to the city of joy. I am back. I am hungry. I am number 23. Ami KKR." Your words have made us 🥹🥹🥹, @GautamGambhir! #AmiKKR #GautamGambhir #GGisBack pic.twitter.com/Wj49jIj0rt — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 22, 2023 × Gambhir's first assignment with the KKR will be the upcoming mini-auction on December 19 where KKR have a purse of US $0.2 million or INR 1.65 crore to spend.

IPL: Gautam Gambhir parts ways with LSG to join KKR as mentor; Shah Rukh Khan reacts

<p>Australia edged past South Africa in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup, on Thursday (Nov 16) in Kolkata, to book a place in the final where they will meet India on Sunday (Nov 19) in Ahmedabad. Asked to bowl first, Pat Cummins-led Men in Yellow rode on Mitchell Starc's 3 for 34, Cummins' 3 for 51 and two wickets each from Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head to dismiss Proteas for 212 in 49.4 overs.</p>

<p>In reply, Australia started off aggressively courtesy of Head's attacking 48-ball 62 but were soon reduced to 137 for 5, after being 60 for no loss, but somehow managed to get past the finish line by three wickets in 47.2&nbsp;overs. Thus, it will be a repeat of the 2003 final as hosts India will face Australia in the mega finale on Sunday in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the clash, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir made a big statement. He feels Australia are 'very vulnerable' ahead of the India clash as they struggled to chase down 213 versus the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-big-claim-ex-pak-stumper-backs-babar-azam-to-break-virat-kohlis-50-odi-centuries-record-659604">CWC '23: BIG CLAIM! Ex-Pak stumper backs Babar Azam to break Virat Kohli's 50 ODI centuries record</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir said on Star Sports after Australia's semi-final win, "Don't think Australia brought their A-game in the semi-final. Australia are still very vulnerable, but yes, they know how to win these knockout games. India will have to play their A-game in the final, which they have been playing since the last 10 matches. India are going to be very confident facing Australia in Ahmedabad."</p>

<p>Both India and Australia met each other in their respective CWC '23 openers on Oct 8 in Chennai. Back then, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue chased down 200 with six wickets in hand. It will be interesting to see if the script remains the same this time around in the summit clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Will India clinch their third&nbsp;ODI WC title or will Australia win their sixth trophy in the tournament history? Only&nbsp;time will tell...</p>


Australia edged past South Africa in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup, on Thursday (Nov 16) in Kolkata, to book a place in the final where they will meet India on Sunday (Nov 19) in Ahmedabad.

Australia edged past South Africa in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup, on Thursday (Nov 16) in Kolkata, to book a place in the final where they will meet India on Sunday (Nov 19) in Ahmedabad. Asked to bowl first, Pat Cummins-led Men in Yellow rode on Mitchell Starc's 3 for 34, Cummins' 3 for 51 and two wickets each from Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head to dismiss Proteas for 212 in 49.4 overs. In reply, Australia started off aggressively courtesy of Head's attacking 48-ball 62 but were soon reduced to 137 for 5, after being 60 for no loss, but somehow managed to get past the finish line by three wickets in 47.2 overs. Thus, it will be a repeat of the 2003 final as hosts India will face Australia in the mega finale on Sunday in Ahmedabad. Prior to the clash, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir made a big statement. He feels Australia are 'very vulnerable' ahead of the India clash as they struggled to chase down 213 versus the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Also read: CWC '23: BIG CLAIM! Ex-Pak stumper backs Babar Azam to break Virat Kohli's 50 ODI centuries record Gambhir said on Star Sports after Australia's semi-final win, "Don't think Australia brought their A-game in the semi-final. Australia are still very vulnerable, but yes, they know how to win these knockout games. India will have to play their A-game in the final, which they have been playing since the last 10 matches. India are going to be very confident facing Australia in Ahmedabad." Both India and Australia met each other in their respective CWC '23 openers on Oct 8 in Chennai. Back then, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue chased down 200 with six wickets in hand. It will be interesting to see if the script remains the same this time around in the summit clash. Will India clinch their third ODI WC title or will Australia win their sixth trophy in the tournament history? Only time will tell...

Shots fired! Australia are vulnerable ahead of India clash, feels Gautam Gambhir prior to CWC '23 final

<p>Former India batter Gautam Gambhir has said that batters do not take on Jasprit Bumrah because he's too good for them and hence the bowler has less wickets to show for his success.</p>

<p>Bumrah currently has 15 wickets in eight ODI World Cup 2023 matches, one less than Mohammed Shami's 16 who has played just four matches.</p>

<p>Speaking to sports website Sportskeeda, Gambhir predicted that Shami will end up taking more wickets for in the quadrennial tournament as batters are more likely to take him on than Bumrah.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-wasnt-keen-to-succeed-kohli-as-india-captain-says-ganguly-reveals-how-he-convinced-hitman-657277">Rohit wasn't keen to succeed Kohli as India captain, says Ganguly, reveals how he convinced Hitman</a></p>

<p>"I think Shami (will take more wickets) because people do not take on Jasprit Bumrah. He’s too good a bowler for an opposition to take him on. A lot of times, the best bowler will not have the most number of wickets. The reason is that the opposition thinks let’s see him off. If you observe Jasprit Bumrah’s initial spell, no one wants to take him on. A lot of times, the team’s best bowler would have a very good economy rate, but he won’t have a lot of wickets," he said.</p>

<p>"I feel Shami [will take more wickets], from the point of view that opposition will look to attack him because of Jasprit Bumrah. And he’s bowling one change. I still feel Jasprit Bumrah is the X factor in the team. This Indian team is such a strong team because of him. But Shami will have more wickets," he further added.</p>

<p>Indian bowling line-up has been menacing in this World Cup with 76 wickets to their name - the most by any team.</p>

<p>Apart from Shami and Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj has also chipped in with 10 wickets while spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav have 26 between them.</p>

<p>Thanks to the bowlers, no team has gone past 300-run mark against India in the World Cup despite this being one of the highest scoring events in the history.</p>


Former India batter Gautam Gambhir has said that batters do not take on Jasprit Bumrah because he's too good for them and hence the bowler has less wickets to show for his success.

Former India batter Gautam Gambhir has said that batters do not take on Jasprit Bumrah because he's too good for them and hence the bowler has less wickets to show for his success. Bumrah currently has 15 wickets in eight ODI World Cup 2023 matches, one less than Mohammed Shami's 16 who has played just four matches. Speaking to sports website Sportskeeda, Gambhir predicted that Shami will end up taking more wickets for in the quadrennial tournament as batters are more likely to take him on than Bumrah. Also Read: Rohit wasn't keen to succeed Kohli as India captain, says Ganguly, reveals how he convinced Hitman "I think Shami (will take more wickets) because people do not take on Jasprit Bumrah. He’s too good a bowler for an opposition to take him on. A lot of times, the best bowler will not have the most number of wickets. The reason is that the opposition thinks let’s see him off. If you observe Jasprit Bumrah’s initial spell, no one wants to take him on. A lot of times, the team’s best bowler would have a very good economy rate, but he won’t have a lot of wickets," he said. "I feel Shami [will take more wickets], from the point of view that opposition will look to attack him because of Jasprit Bumrah. And he’s bowling one change. I still feel Jasprit Bumrah is the X factor in the team. This Indian team is such a strong team because of him. But Shami will have more wickets," he further added. Indian bowling line-up has been menacing in this World Cup with 76 wickets to their name - the most by any team. Apart from Shami and Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj has also chipped in with 10 wickets while spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav have 26 between them. Thanks to the bowlers, no team has gone past 300-run mark against India in the World Cup despite this being one of the highest scoring events in the history.

ODI World Cup 2023: Gautam Gambhir on why Mohammed Shami will take more wickets than X-factor Jasprit Bumrah

<p>Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir believes Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer deserve more plaudits for their performance against South Africa than Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma. India beat the Proteas by a whopping 243-run margin over the weekend to secure a top-of-the-table finish ahead of the knockouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Batting first, India were off to a flyer, courtesy of Sharma and Gill as they plundered South African bowlers for 91 runs in the first 10 overs. However, soon after the powerplay, with the ball becoming old, batting became difficult on the Eden Gardens pitch, forcing no. 3 Kohli and Iyer to take a cautious approach, radically different from the openers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I believe Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli batted on a different planet. This was not the Wankhede or Delhi where the conditions are easy throughout the innings," Gambhir told host broadcaster Star Sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Here it was easy at the start and became difficult in the middle and at the end. So I believe both should be praised more than Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbeaten-india-equal-unique-odi-world-cup-record-after-243-run-win-over-south-africa-655620"><b>Also read |&nbsp;Unbeaten India equal unique ODI World Cup record after 243-run win over South Africa</b></a></p>

<h2><b>Indian gameplan against the Proteas</b></h2>

<p>The Kohli-Iyer duo gave full respect to spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabrez Shamsi, even if it meant not scoring as fluently as they would have liked.</p>

<p>"Spin was going to be the biggest challenge. The way the two of them batted against Keshav Maharaj, he might have conceded just 30 runs but the important thing was that he picked up just one wicket, and because of that South Africa had to get their fast bowlers back," said Gambhir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the spinners had their say in the game, the Indian batters cashed in on the pacers, especially Iyer, who took particular affinity for Marco Jansen. Meanwhile, Kohli carried his bat through and smashed his 49th ODI century, equalling the record set by Sachin Tendulkar, over a decade ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Virat reached his milestone, batting remained difficult on the sluggish track. Although India recalibrated their plans to reach anywhere near 300, late cameos from Suryakumar Yadav (22 off 14) and Ravindra Jadeja (29 off 15) ensured that the team posted an above-par target of 327.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the end of Indian innings, all eyes were on Jadeja as the pitch had enough in it to offer something to a bowler of his calibre. The left-arm orthodox spinner did not disappoint and walked away with a fifer (9-1-33-5) that dismantled the South African batting lineup.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir believes Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer deserve more plaudits for their performance against South Africa than Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma.

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir believes Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer deserve more plaudits for their performance against South Africa than Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma. India beat the Proteas by a whopping 243-run margin over the weekend to secure a top-of-the-table finish ahead of the knockouts. Batting first, India were off to a flyer, courtesy of Sharma and Gill as they plundered South African bowlers for 91 runs in the first 10 overs. However, soon after the powerplay, with the ball becoming old, batting became difficult on the Eden Gardens pitch, forcing no. 3 Kohli and Iyer to take a cautious approach, radically different from the openers. "I believe Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli batted on a different planet. This was not the Wankhede or Delhi where the conditions are easy throughout the innings," Gambhir told host broadcaster Star Sports. "Here it was easy at the start and became difficult in the middle and at the end. So I believe both should be praised more than Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill," he added. Also read | Unbeaten India equal unique ODI World Cup record after 243-run win over South Africa Indian gameplan against the Proteas The Kohli-Iyer duo gave full respect to spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabrez Shamsi, even if it meant not scoring as fluently as they would have liked. "Spin was going to be the biggest challenge. The way the two of them batted against Keshav Maharaj, he might have conceded just 30 runs but the important thing was that he picked up just one wicket, and because of that South Africa had to get their fast bowlers back," said Gambhir. After the spinners had their say in the game, the Indian batters cashed in on the pacers, especially Iyer, who took particular affinity for Marco Jansen. Meanwhile, Kohli carried his bat through and smashed his 49th ODI century, equalling the record set by Sachin Tendulkar, over a decade ago. While Virat reached his milestone, batting remained difficult on the sluggish track. Although India recalibrated their plans to reach anywhere near 300, late cameos from Suryakumar Yadav (22 off 14) and Ravindra Jadeja (29 off 15) ensured that the team posted an above-par target of 327. After the end of Indian innings, all eyes were on Jadeja as the pitch had enough in it to offer something to a bowler of his calibre. The left-arm orthodox spinner did not disappoint and walked away with a fifer (9-1-33-5) that dismantled the South African batting lineup. (With inputs from agencies)

World Cup 2023: Gautam Gambhir says this batting duo should be hailed more than Rohit and Gill

<p>Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir believes that pacer Mohammed Shami should have been a part of the playing XI from the beginning of the ODI World Cup.&nbsp;Shami was the pick of bowlers when India squared up against New Zealand in the top-of-the-table clash against New Zealand on Sunday (Oct 22).</p>

<p>The speedster picked up an impressive five-fer on his World Cup comeback and staked a claim for a permanent spot in the lineup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Shami has a different class. The Indian team management need to have a lot of might to keep him out. No doubt India have won four consecutive matches but despite that, Mohammed Shami should have been a part of this playing XI from the start,” Gambhir told host broadcaster Star Sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite his flawless performance, Gambhir said that Shami might have to sit out the next game when Hardik Pandya gets fit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India went with five bowlers on a Dharamsala ground, which is quite difficult for the bowlers, and despite that, if you give your team five wickets, you can understand the level of bowler he is. It needs to be seen how the team management will make him sit out going forward. Will you persist with him once Hardik Pandya comes back?,” Gambhir added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-india-outfox-new-zealand-in-top-of-the-table-clash-win-by-4-wickets-650070"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Cup 2023: India outfox New Zealand in top-of-the-table clash, win by 4 wickets</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Indian team looks for balance&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian team under Rohit Sharma has been opting for complete balance in the playing XI with Pandya forming a vital cog in the machinery. His batting and bowling all-round abilities allow India to walk into a match with four out-and-out bowlers with Ravindra Jadeja acting as the second all-rounder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after Pandya got injured, India had to rejig the playing XI with Mohammed Shami coming in his place and Shardul Thakur making way for Suryakumar Yadav to solidify the batting.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Shami performed admirably with the ball and allowed India to chase a relatively small total, it also meant that he walked out to bat at no. 8 which doesn't augur well for the team's balance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir believes that pacer Mohammed Shami should have been a part of the playing XI from the beginning of the ODI World Cup. Shami was the pick of bowlers when India squared up against New Zealand in the top-of-the-table clash against New Zealand on Sunday (Oct 22).

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir believes that pacer Mohammed Shami should have been a part of the playing XI from the beginning of the ODI World Cup. Shami was the pick of bowlers when India squared up against New Zealand in the top-of-the-table clash against New Zealand on Sunday (Oct 22). The speedster picked up an impressive five-fer on his World Cup comeback and staked a claim for a permanent spot in the lineup. “Shami has a different class. The Indian team management need to have a lot of might to keep him out. No doubt India have won four consecutive matches but despite that, Mohammed Shami should have been a part of this playing XI from the start,” Gambhir told host broadcaster Star Sports. Despite his flawless performance, Gambhir said that Shami might have to sit out the next game when Hardik Pandya gets fit. “India went with five bowlers on a Dharamsala ground, which is quite difficult for the bowlers, and despite that, if you give your team five wickets, you can understand the level of bowler he is. It needs to be seen how the team management will make him sit out going forward. Will you persist with him once Hardik Pandya comes back?,” Gambhir added. Also read | World Cup 2023: India outfox New Zealand in top-of-the-table clash, win by 4 wickets Indian team looks for balance The Indian team under Rohit Sharma has been opting for complete balance in the playing XI with Pandya forming a vital cog in the machinery. His batting and bowling all-round abilities allow India to walk into a match with four out-and-out bowlers with Ravindra Jadeja acting as the second all-rounder. However, after Pandya got injured, India had to rejig the playing XI with Mohammed Shami coming in his place and Shardul Thakur making way for Suryakumar Yadav to solidify the batting. While Shami performed admirably with the ball and allowed India to chase a relatively small total, it also meant that he walked out to bat at no. 8 which doesn't augur well for the team's balance. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: Gautam Gambhir says this pacer should've been part of India playing XI from start

<p>India locked horns with Afghanistan in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Wednesday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed the Afghans by eight wickets, with 15 overs to spare, in pursuit of 273. Riding on captain Rohit's 131 and Virat Kohli's 55 not out, India didn't break a sweat to complete the run-chase in style. During the match, Virat and Afghanistan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq also came face-to-face following their ugly spat during Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) face-off of IPL 2023 in Lucknow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since Naveen returned to India for the ODI World Cup, chants of "Kohli Kohli" have followed him on the field by the Indian fans. When he came out to bat in the India-Afghanistan game, the crowd started chanting Kohli's name. The same happened during the Indian run-chase as well when the former Indian skipper took matters into his own hands and gestured to the crowd to stop the chants.</p>

<p>The two buried their hatchet with a warm hug, which received rousing applause from the Delhi crowd. Gautam Gambhir -- former Indian opener and LSG mentor who is on commentary duty in CWC 2023 --&nbsp;lauded Kohli for his gesture. Talking to Jatin Sapru, he said on air,&nbsp;"That's a great gesture and I hope from here on, in the upcoming matches, in every one, people are reminded of Virat's gesture because every professional cricketer works hard to make it to this level to play for the country, to play in the IPL."</p>

<p>"If you can't support anyone, don't criticise him. You have the right to support your favourite player but you don't have any to criticise a player," the former batter further opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-watch-virat-kohli-and-naveen-ul-haq-close-ipl-fight-with-hug-during-india-vs-afghanistan-645660">ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH - Virat Kohli and Naveen ul Haq close IPL fight with hug during India vs Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir added, "The most important thing is the way the crowd reacted, it should have behaved in a more sensible way because no one knew from this crowd what happened between those two on that day. The two players, and their team management only knew. I hope the crowds in the coming days behave better, and offer better support. People are coming to play in our country, and as hosts, we can become better brand ambassadors. The players coming here should take only good memories."</p>

<p>Gambhir was serving as Lucknow's mentor during Kohli-Naveen's spat in the LSG-RCB game in early May. He also got into a&nbsp;heated argument with Kohli, which made heads turn back then. However, Kohli-Naveen's warm hug has finally put an end to the whole episode.</p>

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India locked horns with Afghanistan in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Wednesday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed the Afghans by eight wickets, with 15 overs to spare, in pursuit of 273.

India locked horns with Afghanistan in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Wednesday (Oct 11) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed the Afghans by eight wickets, with 15 overs to spare, in pursuit of 273. Riding on captain Rohit's 131 and Virat Kohli's 55 not out, India didn't break a sweat to complete the run-chase in style. During the match, Virat and Afghanistan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq also came face-to-face following their ugly spat during Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) face-off of IPL 2023 in Lucknow. Ever since Naveen returned to India for the ODI World Cup, chants of "Kohli Kohli" have followed him on the field by the Indian fans. When he came out to bat in the India-Afghanistan game, the crowd started chanting Kohli's name. The same happened during the Indian run-chase as well when the former Indian skipper took matters into his own hands and gestured to the crowd to stop the chants. The two buried their hatchet with a warm hug, which received rousing applause from the Delhi crowd. Gautam Gambhir -- former Indian opener and LSG mentor who is on commentary duty in CWC 2023 -- lauded Kohli for his gesture. Talking to Jatin Sapru, he said on air, "That's a great gesture and I hope from here on, in the upcoming matches, in every one, people are reminded of Virat's gesture because every professional cricketer works hard to make it to this level to play for the country, to play in the IPL." "If you can't support anyone, don't criticise him. You have the right to support your favourite player but you don't have any to criticise a player," the former batter further opined. Also read: ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH - Virat Kohli and Naveen ul Haq close IPL fight with hug during India vs Afghanistan Gambhir added, "The most important thing is the way the crowd reacted, it should have behaved in a more sensible way because no one knew from this crowd what happened between those two on that day. The two players, and their team management only knew. I hope the crowds in the coming days behave better, and offer better support. People are coming to play in our country, and as hosts, we can become better brand ambassadors. The players coming here should take only good memories." Gambhir was serving as Lucknow's mentor during Kohli-Naveen's spat in the LSG-RCB game in early May. He also got into a heated argument with Kohli, which made heads turn back then. However, Kohli-Naveen's warm hug has finally put an end to the whole episode. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Virat Kohli telling Delhi crowd not to troll Naveen a great gesture, says Gambhir after Ind-Afg CWC '23 tie

<p>Jasprit Bumrah starred with the ball for India in their convincing eight-wicket win over Afghanistan in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. Locking horns at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11), Rohit Sharma-led India restricted the Afghans to 272 for 8 riding on Bumrah's 4 for 39 -- his best figures in the World Cup -- before Hitman's sublime 131 and Virat Kohli's 55 not out took the home side to an easy win, with 15 overs to spare.</p>

<p>While Rohit walked away with the Player-of-the-Match award, many felt Bumrah played a very crucial role as well on a flat track. Ahead of the much-awaited India versus Pakistan showdown on Saturday (Oct 14) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir lauded Bumrah and made a big statement that there is a 'huge difference' between Shaheen Afridi and the Indian pacer.</p>

<p>"The way he dismissed Mitchell Marsh on that wicket (in the first game against Australia) and the way he dismissed Ibrahim Zadran, if there is a complete and most lethal bowler in world cricket, it is Bumrah. We compared Jasprit Bumrah and Shaheen Shah Afridi earlier; there is a huge difference," said Gambhir on Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-gill-will-definitely-play-prasad-confident-of-india-openers-return-for-pakistan-clash-646222">ODI World Cup: 'Gill will definitely play' - Prasad confident of India opener's return for Pakistan clash</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir further pointed out, "Tell me one fast bowler who can make such an impact in every phase. Bowlers bowl well either with the new ball or at the death but Bumrah has the same impact in the middle overs as he has with the new ball or the old ball."</p>

<p>Ever since his international return, Bumrah has been in top form. He came back to the Indian team during India's tour of Ireland in August after a long injury layoff (due to back issues). He has been among wickets in every game and would like to keep going forward in the remainder of the ODI World Cup at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit-led India occupy the third spot in the points table with two back-to-back wins.&nbsp;</p>

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Jasprit Bumrah starred with the ball for India in their convincing eight-wicket win over Afghanistan in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. Locking horns at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11), Rohit Sharma-led India restricted the Afghans to 272 for 8 riding on Bumrah's 4 for 39 -- his best figures in the World Cup -- before Hitman's sublime 131 and Virat Kohli's 55 not out took the home side to an easy win, with 15 overs to spare.

Jasprit Bumrah starred with the ball for India in their convincing eight-wicket win over Afghanistan in match 9 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. Locking horns at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 11), Rohit Sharma-led India restricted the Afghans to 272 for 8 riding on Bumrah's 4 for 39 -- his best figures in the World Cup -- before Hitman's sublime 131 and Virat Kohli's 55 not out took the home side to an easy win, with 15 overs to spare. While Rohit walked away with the Player-of-the-Match award, many felt Bumrah played a very crucial role as well on a flat track. Ahead of the much-awaited India versus Pakistan showdown on Saturday (Oct 14) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir lauded Bumrah and made a big statement that there is a 'huge difference' between Shaheen Afridi and the Indian pacer. "The way he dismissed Mitchell Marsh on that wicket (in the first game against Australia) and the way he dismissed Ibrahim Zadran, if there is a complete and most lethal bowler in world cricket, it is Bumrah. We compared Jasprit Bumrah and Shaheen Shah Afridi earlier; there is a huge difference," said Gambhir on Star Sports. Also read: ODI World Cup: 'Gill will definitely play' - Prasad confident of India opener's return for Pakistan clash Gambhir further pointed out, "Tell me one fast bowler who can make such an impact in every phase. Bowlers bowl well either with the new ball or at the death but Bumrah has the same impact in the middle overs as he has with the new ball or the old ball." Ever since his international return, Bumrah has been in top form. He came back to the Indian team during India's tour of Ireland in August after a long injury layoff (due to back issues). He has been among wickets in every game and would like to keep going forward in the remainder of the ODI World Cup at home. Rohit-led India occupy the third spot in the points table with two back-to-back wins. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: Huge difference between Bumrah and Afridi, feels Gambhir before India vs Pakistan showdown

<p>Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35. Ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on October 5 (Thursday), the Indian captain Rohit expressed his gratitude for leading India across formats as he believes many big names missed out on becoming the national side's skipper in the past.</p>

<p>When India last hosted the ODI World Cup, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the coveted title (for the second time overall in the country's rich cricketing history). Back then, Rohit was not even part of the World Cup squad. In the current scenario, Hitman will be leading India in the mega event where the hosts' campaign starts on October 8, facing Australia in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since taking over as India's captain, Rohit has had mixed results -- with a semi-final exit in 2022 T20 World Cup, WTC final loss and Asia Cup title last month. Thus, the 36-year-old will be eager to help India lift the 50-over World Cup once again and leave an impact as a captain. Ahead of his stint as captain in the marquee event, Rohit acknowledged the role and responsibility given to him, mentioning that some superstar players such as Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, etc. did not have&nbsp;the luxury to lead despite having stellar careers.</p>

<p>Talking to the Indian Express, Rohit said, "Obviously, you want to be at your peak for this, say when you are 26-27. But you cannot always get what you want. You are talking about the Indian captaincy and there have been stalwarts in the Indian team. Many more players deserved to be the captain of the team. I had to wait for my turn and that's absolutely fair enough. The guys before, Virat was before me, so was MS (Dhoni)."</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-pakistan-former-india-captain-sourav-ganguly-predicts-cwc-2023-semi-finalists-642516">No Pakistan! Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts CWC 2023 semi-finalists</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain'</strong></h2>

<p>"Just look at the names that missed out: Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag … these are all stalwarts of Indian cricket. Not to forget Yuvraj Singh. He never captained India. Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain at some stage but he didn’t get it. That's life. I got it now and I am grateful for it. I would rather have it when I know how to captain a team, when I know what is required and all. Rather than when I don’t know the ABCD of captaincy. So in that respect, this is good," Hitman added.</p>

<p>Rohit will look to create a legacy by helping India win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, on November 19. This will be his third&nbsp;World Cup, and last in all likelihood, hence, he will be desperate to leave on a high.</p>

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Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35.

Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35. Ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on October 5 (Thursday), the Indian captain Rohit expressed his gratitude for leading India across formats as he believes many big names missed out on becoming the national side's skipper in the past. When India last hosted the ODI World Cup, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the coveted title (for the second time overall in the country's rich cricketing history). Back then, Rohit was not even part of the World Cup squad. In the current scenario, Hitman will be leading India in the mega event where the hosts' campaign starts on October 8, facing Australia in Chennai. Since taking over as India's captain, Rohit has had mixed results -- with a semi-final exit in 2022 T20 World Cup, WTC final loss and Asia Cup title last month. Thus, the 36-year-old will be eager to help India lift the 50-over World Cup once again and leave an impact as a captain. Ahead of his stint as captain in the marquee event, Rohit acknowledged the role and responsibility given to him, mentioning that some superstar players such as Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, etc. did not have the luxury to lead despite having stellar careers. Talking to the Indian Express, Rohit said, "Obviously, you want to be at your peak for this, say when you are 26-27. But you cannot always get what you want. You are talking about the Indian captaincy and there have been stalwarts in the Indian team. Many more players deserved to be the captain of the team. I had to wait for my turn and that's absolutely fair enough. The guys before, Virat was before me, so was MS (Dhoni)." × Also read: No Pakistan! Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts CWC 2023 semi-finalists 'Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain' "Just look at the names that missed out: Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag … these are all stalwarts of Indian cricket. Not to forget Yuvraj Singh. He never captained India. Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain at some stage but he didn’t get it. That's life. I got it now and I am grateful for it. I would rather have it when I know how to captain a team, when I know what is required and all. Rather than when I don’t know the ABCD of captaincy. So in that respect, this is good," Hitman added. Rohit will look to create a legacy by helping India win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, on November 19. This will be his third World Cup, and last in all likelihood, hence, he will be desperate to leave on a high. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Sehwag, Gambhir, Yuvraj missed out': Rohit opines on his captaincy, 'grateful' to lead India in CWC '23

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