Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have many times left themselves to be blamed for poor results despite having one of the strongest looking squads on paper. While over-dependency on some players have played a major role in it, the Kolkata outfit looks to start a fresh chapter under the full-time captaincy of World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan.<o:p></o:p>

KKR would be hoping for a fully fit Andre Russell and a firing Sunil Narine whereas hoping that new additions of Shakib Al Hasan, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Harbhajan Singh, among others come good during the course of the season.<o:p></o:p>

KKR finished fifth after narrowly missing out on playoff qualification due to net run rate.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-are-some-major-records-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-can-shatter-in-ipl-2021-376648" hreflang="en">Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021</a>

The Kolkata franchise would be banking on Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana and Rahul Tripathi to give them a boost in the top order. The middle-order of Eoin Morgan, Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik looks strong on paper and the fans would be hoping for some fireworks. <o:p></o:p>

In terms of bowling, Pat Cummins and Lockie Ferguson will be KKR’s key overseas bowlers and there will be more dependency on Varun Chakravarthy after he exceeded expectations last season. The likes of Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi and Kamlesh Nagarkoti along with Sandeep Warrier and Vaibhav Arora make them a good bowling unit.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-2021-fascinating-stats-from-tournament-history-375646/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

If KKR can sort their playing combination and batting order then they can have a fruitful season in IPL 2021. They have plenty of match-winners at their helm and it would be interesting how Morgan uses the big-name players in the T20 tournament.

<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/timeless-brian-lara-mighty-impressed-with-abds-knock-in-ipl-opener-376661" hreflang="en">'Timeless': Brian Lara mighty impressed with ABD's knock in IPL opener</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2021 Squad:<o:p></o:p></h2>

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Shubman Gill, Shakib Al Hasan, Nitish Rana, Tim Seifert, Rahul Tripathi, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Varun CV, Kuldeep Yadav, Pat Cummins, Lockie Ferguson, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Sandeep Warrier, Prasidh Krishna, Sheldon Jackson, Vaibhav Arora, Karun Nair, Harbhajan Singh, Ben Cutting, Venkatesh Iyer, Pawan Negi <o:p></o:p>

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have many times left themselves to be blamed for poor results despite having one of the strongest looking squads on paper. While over-dependency on some players have played a major role in it, the Kolkata outfit looks to start a fresh chapter under the full-time captaincy of World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have many times left themselves to be blamed for poor results despite having one of the strongest looking squads on paper. While over-dependency on some players have played a major role in it, the Kolkata outfit looks to start a fresh chapter under the full-time captaincy of World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan. KKR would be hoping for a fully fit Andre Russell and a firing Sunil Narine whereas hoping that new additions of Shakib Al Hasan, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Harbhajan Singh, among others come good during the course of the season. KKR finished fifth after narrowly missing out on playoff qualification due to net run rate. ALSO READ: Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021 The Kolkata franchise would be banking on Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana and Rahul Tripathi to give them a boost in the top order. The middle-order of Eoin Morgan, Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik looks strong on paper and the fans would be hoping for some fireworks. In terms of bowling, Pat Cummins and Lockie Ferguson will be KKR’s key overseas bowlers and there will be more dependency on Varun Chakravarthy after he exceeded expectations last season. The likes of Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi and Kamlesh Nagarkoti along with Sandeep Warrier and Vaibhav Arora make them a good bowling unit. × If KKR can sort their playing combination and batting order then they can have a fruitful season in IPL 2021. They have plenty of match-winners at their helm and it would be interesting how Morgan uses the big-name players in the T20 tournament. ALSO READ: 'Timeless': Brian Lara mighty impressed with ABD's knock in IPL opener Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2021 Squad: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Shubman Gill, Shakib Al Hasan, Nitish Rana, Tim Seifert, Rahul Tripathi, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Varun CV, Kuldeep Yadav, Pat Cummins, Lockie Ferguson, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Sandeep Warrier, Prasidh Krishna, Sheldon Jackson, Vaibhav Arora, Karun Nair, Harbhajan Singh, Ben Cutting, Venkatesh Iyer, Pawan Negi

IPL 2021, KKR - Team Preview: Kolkata look to find old glory under Morgan's leadership

Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers rescued the team and ended the season opener jinx for the franchise as they beat Mumbai Indians by two wickets at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/always-hurts-kkrs-shubman-gill-hopes-to-avoid-net-run-rate-trap-in-playoff-race-376655" hreflang="en">'Always hurts...': KKR's Shubman Gill hopes to avoid net run rate trap in playoff race</a>

West Indies batting legend Brian Lara was mighty impressed with ABD's knock and said that he was timeless.

“He is timeless. He has got the experience. IPL is the only form of cricket he is playing at the moment. I suppose he is keeping fit and ready for it. At this stage, when you lost Virat Kohli, RCB needed him to come good. He was explosive at the right time, he controls the game. He came in after Glenn Maxwell as well, he controlled the game and got them home,” Lara told Star Sports.

Royal Challengers Bangalore won the toss and decided to bowl first. Mumbai Indians got off to a steady start as openers Rohit Sharma and Chris Lynn smashed few boundaries. However, skipper Sharma departs after getting run-out after a tragic mixup.&nbsp;

Suryakumar Yadav came to bat and continued his sublime form. He along with Chris Lynn stitched a crucial 70-run partnership before Kyle Jamieson dismissed Yadav.&nbsp;

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-are-some-major-records-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-can-shatter-in-ipl-2021-376648" hreflang="en">Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021</a>

Lynn followed Yadav as he soon was dismissed by Sundar and was one run short of a half-century. He scored the most runs for Mumbai Indians in this match after scoring 49 runs off 35 balls (four 4s, three 6s).&nbsp;

After Lynn's dismissal, Pandya and Ishan Kishan tried stabilising the innings. However, Harshal Patel's fifer restricted Mumbai Indians to 159 runs. In the 20th over, Patel scalped three wickets and conceded in one run (one run out).&nbsp;

Harshal Patel became the first-ever bowler in Indian Premier League history to take a five-wicket haul against Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;

In return, RCB tried experimenting by sending Washington Sundar to open alongside Virat Kohli. However, the experiment failed as the all-rounder just scored 10 runs. Despite losing a couple of early wickets, Royal Challengers were off to a strong start. Maxwell and Virat's partnership was proving fatal for the Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;

But Jasprit Bumrah provided a much-needed breakthrough by dismissing skipper Kohli. Marco Jansen brought Mumbai back into the game after dismissing Glenn Maxwell and Shahbaz Ahmed in one over.&nbsp;

However, AB De Villiers stayed till the end and smashed 48 runs off 27 balls! Harshal Patel got the winning run and ended the season opener jinx for Royal Challengers Bangalore and take them on top of the IPL table. Harshal Patel was adjudged the Man of the Match.

Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers rescued the team and ended the season opener jinx for the franchise as they beat Mumbai Indians by two wickets at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai.

Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers rescued the team and ended the season opener jinx for the franchise as they beat Mumbai Indians by two wickets at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. Also read: 'Always hurts...': KKR's Shubman Gill hopes to avoid net run rate trap in playoff race West Indies batting legend Brian Lara was mighty impressed with ABD's knock and said that he was timeless. “He is timeless. He has got the experience. IPL is the only form of cricket he is playing at the moment. I suppose he is keeping fit and ready for it. At this stage, when you lost Virat Kohli, RCB needed him to come good. He was explosive at the right time, he controls the game. He came in after Glenn Maxwell as well, he controlled the game and got them home,” Lara told Star Sports. Royal Challengers Bangalore won the toss and decided to bowl first. Mumbai Indians got off to a steady start as openers Rohit Sharma and Chris Lynn smashed few boundaries. However, skipper Sharma departs after getting run-out after a tragic mixup. Suryakumar Yadav came to bat and continued his sublime form. He along with Chris Lynn stitched a crucial 70-run partnership before Kyle Jamieson dismissed Yadav. In pics: Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021 Lynn followed Yadav as he soon was dismissed by Sundar and was one run short of a half-century. He scored the most runs for Mumbai Indians in this match after scoring 49 runs off 35 balls (four 4s, three 6s). After Lynn's dismissal, Pandya and Ishan Kishan tried stabilising the innings. However, Harshal Patel's fifer restricted Mumbai Indians to 159 runs. In the 20th over, Patel scalped three wickets and conceded in one run (one run out). Harshal Patel became the first-ever bowler in Indian Premier League history to take a five-wicket haul against Mumbai Indians. In return, RCB tried experimenting by sending Washington Sundar to open alongside Virat Kohli. However, the experiment failed as the all-rounder just scored 10 runs. Despite losing a couple of early wickets, Royal Challengers were off to a strong start. Maxwell and Virat's partnership was proving fatal for the Mumbai Indians. But Jasprit Bumrah provided a much-needed breakthrough by dismissing skipper Kohli. Marco Jansen brought Mumbai back into the game after dismissing Glenn Maxwell and Shahbaz Ahmed in one over. However, AB De Villiers stayed till the end and smashed 48 runs off 27 balls! Harshal Patel got the winning run and ended the season opener jinx for Royal Challengers Bangalore and take them on top of the IPL table. Harshal Patel was adjudged the Man of the Match.

'Timeless': Brian Lara mighty impressed with ABD's knock in IPL opener

It is a Master vs Apprentice showdown in the Indian Premier League 2021 as Rishabh Pant's Delhi Capitals will take on MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the second match of the tournament at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indiranagarkagunda-rahul-dravids-angry-avatar-takes-twitter-by-storm-check-best-reactions-376624" hreflang="en">#IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions</a>&nbsp;

Team India head coach Ravi Shastri is excited for the match and took to Twitter and wrote: "Guru vs Chela. Bahot Maza aayega aaj (it'll be great fun tonight). Stump Mic suniyega zaroor (do listen to the stump mic) #DhoniReturns #Pant #IPL2021 #DCvsCSK - @ChennaiIPL @DelhiCapitals".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Guru vs Chela. Bahot Maza aayega aaj. Stump Mic suniyega zaroor <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniReturns?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniReturns</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pant</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvsCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvsCSK</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://t.co/ilHkunwrBB">pic.twitter.com/ilHkunwrBB</a>
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1380784761484976128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant have been very vocal behind the stumps guiding the bowlers to bowl the right length.&nbsp;

While Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in IPL history in the 2020 edition, Delhi Capitals emerged as runners-up after losing the IPL 2020 final to Mumbai Indians.

The Delhi Capitals Captain Rishabh Pant expressed that it will be very special for him to lead an IPL team for the first time in a match against MS Dhoni's side, "It will be extra special to walk out for the toss with MS Dhoni tomorrow. This will be the first time that I will be leading an IPL team and the first match is against Mahi bhai. I have learned a lot from him, and I have gained a lot of experience from him. Hopefully, I can use this experience against him, and we can win this match. That's what I am looking forward to."

Pant added that the Delhi Capitals squad, for the IPL 2021, has a great mix of experience and youth, "I have been talking to the senior players like Shikhar Dhawan, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane about the fields we can set and other strategic decisions for the team. I have been talking to Ricky and our Bowling Coach James Hopes as well. There's a good mix of seniors and juniors in our squad and I think with the help of Ricky, we can do something different this year."

It is a Master vs Apprentice showdown in the Indian Premier League 2021 as Rishabh Pant's Delhi Capitals will take on MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the second match of the tournament at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.

It is a Master vs Apprentice showdown in the Indian Premier League 2021 as Rishabh Pant's Delhi Capitals will take on MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the second match of the tournament at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. ALSO READ: #IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions Team India head coach Ravi Shastri is excited for the match and took to Twitter and wrote: "Guru vs Chela. Bahot Maza aayega aaj (it'll be great fun tonight). Stump Mic suniyega zaroor (do listen to the stump mic) #DhoniReturns #Pant #IPL2021 #DCvsCSK - @ChennaiIPL @DelhiCapitals". Guru vs Chela. Bahot Maza aayega aaj. Stump Mic suniyega zaroor #DhoniReturns #Pant #IPL2021 #DCvsCSK - @ChennaiIPL @DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/ilHkunwrBB — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) April 10, 2021 × MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant have been very vocal behind the stumps guiding the bowlers to bowl the right length. While Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in IPL history in the 2020 edition, Delhi Capitals emerged as runners-up after losing the IPL 2020 final to Mumbai Indians. The Delhi Capitals Captain Rishabh Pant expressed that it will be very special for him to lead an IPL team for the first time in a match against MS Dhoni's side, "It will be extra special to walk out for the toss with MS Dhoni tomorrow. This will be the first time that I will be leading an IPL team and the first match is against Mahi bhai. I have learned a lot from him, and I have gained a lot of experience from him. Hopefully, I can use this experience against him, and we can win this match. That's what I am looking forward to." Pant added that the Delhi Capitals squad, for the IPL 2021, has a great mix of experience and youth, "I have been talking to the senior players like Shikhar Dhawan, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane about the fields we can set and other strategic decisions for the team. I have been talking to Ricky and our Bowling Coach James Hopes as well. There's a good mix of seniors and juniors in our squad and I think with the help of Ricky, we can do something different this year."

'Guru vs Chela': Ravi Shastri expresses his excitement for Dhoni vs Pant clash in IPL 2021

IPL 2021- Harshal Patel and ABD shine as RCB beat Mumbai Indians in season opener

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indian in Chennai on Friday, Virat Kohli has opened up about his bonding with the Bengaluru-based franchise. <o:p></o:p>

Kohli has revealed that despite not winning a single trophy, the thought of leaving RCB has never crossed his mind while adding that it was impossible to “recreate” the feelings and bonding at RCB with any other franchise. <o:p></o:p>

"There are a couple of other teams who have great fan bases but I think we are a team who get a lot of support and adulation wherever we play because we play a certain brand of cricket. We will play our heart out, we might not be composed enough in many difficult situations in the past but there has never been a shortage of passion, commitment, intensity.

Trending:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravids-angry-side-leaves-virat-kohli-in-surprise-376306" hreflang="en">Watch: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' side leaves Virat Kohli in surprise</a>

"A lot of fun on the field and me as an individual have never felt that I wanna move away from the system just because I haven't won a title. That happens because things have been so organic, this cannot be created anywhere. This cannot be manufactured in a way that people are forcing me to play, and I am forcing the management to keep me, there has never been a conversation like that. So, things have been very organic. The respect, the care and the enjoyment I feel here, I don't think I can recreate anywhere else. The experience has been magical," Virat Kohli said in a video posted by RCB.<o:p></o:p>

After ending their IPL 2020 season in playoffs, RCB snapped the likes of Glenn Maxwell, Kyle Jamieson, Dan Christian among others as they look to end their trophy drought in the cash-rich T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

"It feels surreal. Honestly, it doesn't feel like we went away for too long as there was a lot of cricket in between as well but yeah, very excited that we are playing in India again.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mi-vs-rcb-chepauks-pitch-report-chennais-weather-prediction-and-venue-stats-all-you-need-to-know-376301" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Chepauk's pitch report, Chennai's weather prediction and venue stats - All you need to know</a>

"Although in a different way, in a different setting. I am very optimistic and yes I have a good feeling this time around," Virat Kohli said in a video posted by RCB," Virat Kohli had said while joining the RCB bio-bubble in Chennai.<o:p></o:p>

RCB take on MI in the first match of IPL 2021 in Chennai on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indian in Chennai on Friday, Virat Kohli has opened up about his bonding with the Bengaluru-based franchise.

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indian in Chennai on Friday, Virat Kohli has opened up about his bonding with the Bengaluru-based franchise. Kohli has revealed that despite not winning a single trophy, the thought of leaving RCB has never crossed his mind while adding that it was impossible to “recreate” the feelings and bonding at RCB with any other franchise. "There are a couple of other teams who have great fan bases but I think we are a team who get a lot of support and adulation wherever we play because we play a certain brand of cricket. We will play our heart out, we might not be composed enough in many difficult situations in the past but there has never been a shortage of passion, commitment, intensity. Trending: Watch: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' side leaves Virat Kohli in surprise "A lot of fun on the field and me as an individual have never felt that I wanna move away from the system just because I haven't won a title. That happens because things have been so organic, this cannot be created anywhere. This cannot be manufactured in a way that people are forcing me to play, and I am forcing the management to keep me, there has never been a conversation like that. So, things have been very organic. The respect, the care and the enjoyment I feel here, I don't think I can recreate anywhere else. The experience has been magical," Virat Kohli said in a video posted by RCB. After ending their IPL 2020 season in playoffs, RCB snapped the likes of Glenn Maxwell, Kyle Jamieson, Dan Christian among others as they look to end their trophy drought in the cash-rich T20 tournament. "It feels surreal. Honestly, it doesn't feel like we went away for too long as there was a lot of cricket in between as well but yeah, very excited that we are playing in India again. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Chepauk's pitch report, Chennai's weather prediction and venue stats - All you need to know "Although in a different way, in a different setting. I am very optimistic and yes I have a good feeling this time around," Virat Kohli said in a video posted by RCB," Virat Kohli had said while joining the RCB bio-bubble in Chennai. RCB take on MI in the first match of IPL 2021 in Chennai on Friday.

Experience has been magical: Virat Kohli talks about his bonding with RCB ahead of IPL 2021

Social media campaigns have&nbsp;already taken the internet by storm ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021&nbsp;and the cricketers are not untouched by the virality. All in good humour but especially players from overseas have not shied away from taunting legendary MS Dhoni and eccentric Shikhar Dhawan on social media. It just goes on to show that the coming two months of IPL 2021 will be filled with unlimited entertainment.

After Dream11 shared a video of the #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai campaign starring MS Dhoni who is seen bowling at a street cricket match and managing to dismiss his opponent, Ab de Villiers requested MSD to bowl and not keep. ‘Definitely prefer you bowling than keeping. New role?’ – a suggestion from a competitive standpoint from two&nbsp;wicketkeepers.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> Definitely prefer you bowling than keeping, new role? 😉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamHaiTohMazaaHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai</a> <a href="https://t.co/QfblmD0YuQ">https://t.co/QfblmD0YuQ</a>
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/1380049369567698944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Faf du Plessis, Dhoni’s CSK teammate reminds him of plans to go for bike rides on Mahi’s bike, We all know that MSD is a fan of bikes and has an awesome collection, Faf just wants to benefit as a teammate. &nbsp;- @msdhoni When are we taking your bikes out for a ride? You Promised We're a TEAM after all :P #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai #Whistlepodu

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-will-there-be-opening-ceremony-ahead-of-tournament-opener-all-you-need-to-know-376291" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Will there be opening ceremony ahead of tournament opener? - All you need to know</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> When are we taking your bikes out for a ride? You Promised😀 
We're a TEAM afterall :P <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamHaiTohMazaaHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Whistlepodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Whistlepodu</a> <a href="https://t.co/DFdHep5S3n">https://t.co/DFdHep5S3n</a>
— Faf Du Plessis (@faf1307) <a href="https://twitter.com/faf1307/status/1380061438958444546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In another video Shikhar Dhawan was seen making space to cricket on the terrace, he tagged his teammates Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin, Shreyas Iyer and Kagiso Rabada showcasing the importance of comradery as Delhi Capitals challenges for their first IPL trophy, he said Team hai toh zindagi hai. Aur jab saare dost ek saath ho, toh zindagi kamaal hai.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Team hai toh zindagi hai. Aur jab saare dost ek saath ho, toh zindagi kamaal hai. <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KagisoRabada25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KagisoRabada25</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShreyasIyer15?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShreyasIyer15</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamHaiTohMazaaHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai</a> <a href="https://t.co/vnWwZzbVbO">https://t.co/vnWwZzbVbO</a>
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1380037693170708480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In the tweet where Shikhar Dhawan tagged his teammates, Ben Stokes tweets ‘Great warm-up’. As Ben Stoke’s Rajasthan Royals looks eager to match up against Shikhar Dhawan's Delhi Capitals again, &nbsp;it is sure that Ben is genuinely challenging Shikhar for a matchup in the days to follow.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Great warm up <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDhawan25</a>! Let’s do this <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a> 🙌🙌 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamHaiTohMazaaHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dream11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dream11</a> <a href="https://t.co/BsmDLSSmGh">https://t.co/BsmDLSSmGh</a>
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/1380068040562335747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Jos Butler surely had a trick up his sleeve, he taunted Shikhar Dhawan when he was seen clearing his terrace of clothes, kept out to dry in order to play cricket with his friends to which the English gloveman poked - &nbsp;Didn't know you had such a massive wardrobe.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-what-is-new-what-has-changed-who-is-in-who-is-out-ten-things-different-this-time-376268" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: What is new, what has changed, who is in, who is out? Ten things different this time</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Didn't know you had such a massive wardrobe!!😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamHaiTohMazaaHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dream11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dream11</a> <a href="https://t.co/o15SmhiwXC">https://t.co/o15SmhiwXC</a>
— Jos Buttler (@josbuttler) <a href="https://twitter.com/josbuttler/status/1380073817926737920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As if the Englishmen were not enough, even compatriot Ashwin jibed at the southpaw to clear his terrace too - My terrace is great for building cricket too @SDhawan25, please help clear it!!&nbsp;. @DelhiCapitals @RishabhPant17 @ShreyasIyer15 &nbsp;#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai @dream11

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My terrace is great for building cricket too <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDhawan25</a> , please help clear it!!😁😁 . <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShreyasIyer15?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShreyasIyer15</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamHaiTohMazaaHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dream11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dream11</a> <a href="https://t.co/R64zDdU8pM">https://t.co/R64zDdU8pM</a>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1380080717116375042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Social media campaigns have already taken the internet by storm ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 and the cricketers are not untouched by the virality.

Social media campaigns have already taken the internet by storm ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 and the cricketers are not untouched by the virality. All in good humour but especially players from overseas have not shied away from taunting legendary MS Dhoni and eccentric Shikhar Dhawan on social media. It just goes on to show that the coming two months of IPL 2021 will be filled with unlimited entertainment. After Dream11 shared a video of the #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai campaign starring MS Dhoni who is seen bowling at a street cricket match and managing to dismiss his opponent, Ab de Villiers requested MSD to bowl and not keep. ‘Definitely prefer you bowling than keeping. New role?’ – a suggestion from a competitive standpoint from two wicketkeepers. @msdhoni Definitely prefer you bowling than keeping, new role? 😉 #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai https://t.co/QfblmD0YuQ — AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) April 8, 2021 × Faf du Plessis, Dhoni’s CSK teammate reminds him of plans to go for bike rides on Mahi’s bike, We all know that MSD is a fan of bikes and has an awesome collection, Faf just wants to benefit as a teammate. - @msdhoni When are we taking your bikes out for a ride? You Promised We're a TEAM after all :P #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai #Whistlepodu ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Will there be opening ceremony ahead of tournament opener? - All you need to know @msdhoni When are we taking your bikes out for a ride? You Promised😀 We're a TEAM afterall :P #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai #Whistlepodu https://t.co/DFdHep5S3n — Faf Du Plessis (@faf1307) April 8, 2021 × In another video Shikhar Dhawan was seen making space to cricket on the terrace, he tagged his teammates Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin, Shreyas Iyer and Kagiso Rabada showcasing the importance of comradery as Delhi Capitals challenges for their first IPL trophy, he said Team hai toh zindagi hai. Aur jab saare dost ek saath ho, toh zindagi kamaal hai. Team hai toh zindagi hai. Aur jab saare dost ek saath ho, toh zindagi kamaal hai. @DelhiCapitals @RishabhPant17 @KagisoRabada25 @ashwinravi99 @ShreyasIyer15 #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai https://t.co/vnWwZzbVbO — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) April 8, 2021 × In the tweet where Shikhar Dhawan tagged his teammates, Ben Stokes tweets ‘Great warm-up’. As Ben Stoke’s Rajasthan Royals looks eager to match up against Shikhar Dhawan's Delhi Capitals again, it is sure that Ben is genuinely challenging Shikhar for a matchup in the days to follow. Great warm up @SDhawan25! Let’s do this @rajasthanroyals 🙌🙌 #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai @Dream11 https://t.co/BsmDLSSmGh — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) April 8, 2021 × Jos Butler surely had a trick up his sleeve, he taunted Shikhar Dhawan when he was seen clearing his terrace of clothes, kept out to dry in order to play cricket with his friends to which the English gloveman poked - Didn't know you had such a massive wardrobe. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: What is new, what has changed, who is in, who is out? Ten things different this time Didn't know you had such a massive wardrobe!!😂#TeamHaiTohMazaaHai @Dream11 https://t.co/o15SmhiwXC — Jos Buttler (@josbuttler) April 8, 2021 × As if the Englishmen were not enough, even compatriot Ashwin jibed at the southpaw to clear his terrace too - My terrace is great for building cricket too @SDhawan25, please help clear it!! . @DelhiCapitals @RishabhPant17 @ShreyasIyer15 #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai @dream11 My terrace is great for building cricket too @SDhawan25 , please help clear it!!😁😁 . @DelhiCapitals @RishabhPant17 @ShreyasIyer15 #TeamHaiTohMazaaHai @dream11 https://t.co/R64zDdU8pM — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) April 8, 2021 ×

IPL 2021: Cricketers hit sixes at taking jibes at Dhoni and Dhawan's gully cricket

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli welcomed the newcomers to the team with a warm and motivating speech ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916" hreflang="en">List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a>

The Bangalore-based franchise had an exciting 2021 auction with Kyle Jamieson and Glenn Maxwell being the main highlight.&nbsp;

RCB also bought all-rounder Dan Christian, Sachin Baby, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Suyash Prabhudesai and KS Bharat.

RCB took to social media and shared a video where skipper Kohli can be seen talking to his squad ahead of the practice session.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
T-2 Days: Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers at RCB’s practice session 
 
Full squad training at Chepauk, and some pep talk from the experienced folks, catch what happened at yesterday’s practice session on <a href="https://twitter.com/myntra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myntra</a> presents Bold Diaries.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/RSXKv6xD6B">pic.twitter.com/RSXKv6xD6B</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1380015043325136897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"To all the new guys who have joined RCB, welcome to this amazing group of guys. As you know from the guys that have played here in the past, the atmosphere, the energy throughout the season will be amazing. The only thing I expect from the guys is to make the most of the time spent of the field. Whether it’s practice sessions, needless to mention, I expect guys to show intensity. That’s the way we have always played and that won’t change," Kohli said.

Virat talked about the successful 2020 campaign when RCB got into the playoffs. He felt that the squad, this season, is stronger than the previous edition.&nbsp;

"Last year was a great step in the right direction for us and I feel like our squad is even stronger this year. I expect good things to happen again," Kohli added.

"But a lot of enjoyment happened last year and the focus was to make the most of the time we had, especially in our practice sessions. There was no mucking around, there was no wasting time. We were professionals in what we wanted to do and had a lot of fun as well through the season."

"I am backing you, the management is backing you. Players who have been selected, we believe they are going to contribute to the culture that RCB has, and to the plans that we’re going to execute on the field," the RCB captain said.

"If we all believe together, we can do some really specials things this season. All of us should look forward to it, I certainly look forward to it. So let’s get off to a good start boys."

Royal Challengers Bangalore will face defending champions Mumbai Indians in the IPL season opener on Friday.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli welcomed the newcomers to the team with a warm and motivating speech ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League.

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli welcomed the newcomers to the team with a warm and motivating speech ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League. IN PICS: List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 The Bangalore-based franchise had an exciting 2021 auction with Kyle Jamieson and Glenn Maxwell being the main highlight. RCB also bought all-rounder Dan Christian, Sachin Baby, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Suyash Prabhudesai and KS Bharat. RCB took to social media and shared a video where skipper Kohli can be seen talking to his squad ahead of the practice session. T-2 Days: Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers at RCB’s practice session Full squad training at Chepauk, and some pep talk from the experienced folks, catch what happened at yesterday’s practice session on @myntra presents Bold Diaries.#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/RSXKv6xD6B — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) April 8, 2021 × "To all the new guys who have joined RCB, welcome to this amazing group of guys. As you know from the guys that have played here in the past, the atmosphere, the energy throughout the season will be amazing. The only thing I expect from the guys is to make the most of the time spent of the field. Whether it’s practice sessions, needless to mention, I expect guys to show intensity. That’s the way we have always played and that won’t change," Kohli said. Virat talked about the successful 2020 campaign when RCB got into the playoffs. He felt that the squad, this season, is stronger than the previous edition. "Last year was a great step in the right direction for us and I feel like our squad is even stronger this year. I expect good things to happen again," Kohli added. "But a lot of enjoyment happened last year and the focus was to make the most of the time we had, especially in our practice sessions. There was no mucking around, there was no wasting time. We were professionals in what we wanted to do and had a lot of fun as well through the season." "I am backing you, the management is backing you. Players who have been selected, we believe they are going to contribute to the culture that RCB has, and to the plans that we’re going to execute on the field," the RCB captain said. "If we all believe together, we can do some really specials things this season. All of us should look forward to it, I certainly look forward to it. So let’s get off to a good start boys." Royal Challengers Bangalore will face defending champions Mumbai Indians in the IPL season opener on Friday.

IPL 2021- 'I am backing you..': RCB skipper Virat Kohli welcomes newcomers with motivating speech

Punjab Kings have gone through a massive change since the previous edition of the Indian Premier League. The franchise led by KL Rahul will be looking to revive the newly rebranded team and win the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-in-quarantine-when-my-father-passed-away-mohammed-siraj-recalls-difficult-times-376094" hreflang="en">Was in quarantine when my father passed away': Mohammed Siraj recalls difficult times</a>

The Punjab Kings entered the IPL 2021 mini-auction with the biggest purse (Rs.53.2 crore). The team roped in some big names including Dawid Malan, Jhye Richardson and many. The team lacked firepower in the bowling lineup last season, however, the inclusion of Riley Meredith and Jhye Richardson will bolster the bowling attack.

Punjab roped in the World No.1 T20I batsman Dawid Malan for just Rs 2 crore, despite having several options in the batting order. The team even bought an Indian young gun Shahrukh Khan and Australian cricketer Moises Henriques.&nbsp;

Punjab Kings' top-order batsmen (Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran) had a prolific run last season, with the skipper being the Orange Cap holder.&nbsp;

KL Rahul's Punjab Kings will open their IPL campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.&nbsp;

<h2>Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2021</h2>

KL Rahul (C), Dawid Malan, Mayank Agarwal, Chris Gayle, Mandeep Singh, Prabsimran Singh, Nicholas Pooran (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Deepak Hooda, Murugan Ashwin, Ravi Bishnoi, Harpreet Brar, Moises Henriques, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Porel, Darshan Nalkande, Chris Jordan, Jhye Richardson, Shahrukh Khan, Riley Meredith, Jalaj Saxena, Utkarsh Singh, Saurabh Kumar, Fabian Allen.&nbsp;

Punjab Kings have gone through a massive change since the previous edition of the Indian Premier League. The franchise led by KL Rahul will be looking to revive the newly rebranded team and win the Indian Premier League.

Punjab Kings have gone through a massive change since the previous edition of the Indian Premier League. The franchise led by KL Rahul will be looking to revive the newly rebranded team and win the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: Was in quarantine when my father passed away': Mohammed Siraj recalls difficult times The Punjab Kings entered the IPL 2021 mini-auction with the biggest purse (Rs.53.2 crore). The team roped in some big names including Dawid Malan, Jhye Richardson and many. The team lacked firepower in the bowling lineup last season, however, the inclusion of Riley Meredith and Jhye Richardson will bolster the bowling attack. Punjab roped in the World No.1 T20I batsman Dawid Malan for just Rs 2 crore, despite having several options in the batting order. The team even bought an Indian young gun Shahrukh Khan and Australian cricketer Moises Henriques. Punjab Kings' top-order batsmen (Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran) had a prolific run last season, with the skipper being the Orange Cap holder. KL Rahul's Punjab Kings will open their IPL campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2021 KL Rahul (C), Dawid Malan, Mayank Agarwal, Chris Gayle, Mandeep Singh, Prabsimran Singh, Nicholas Pooran (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Deepak Hooda, Murugan Ashwin, Ravi Bishnoi, Harpreet Brar, Moises Henriques, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Porel, Darshan Nalkande, Chris Jordan, Jhye Richardson, Shahrukh Khan, Riley Meredith, Jalaj Saxena, Utkarsh Singh, Saurabh Kumar, Fabian Allen.

IPL 2021, Punjab Kings - Team Preview: Can KL Rahul and Co. revive the 'rebranded' franchise?

Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques recently led his team Sydney Sixers to a title win in Big Bash League (BBL) and said that he was looking to do the same with Punjab Kings' KL Rahul.&nbsp;

“Just because you're the captain, it doesn't mean you run the show. I had 10 other very good players, very good leaders out there helping me,” the Punjab Kings website quoted Henriques as saying.

“And now I'll be trying to do the same for KL (Rahul), whether it be while playing or watching the game. It is about trying to make the team get better from wherever I may be,” he added.

Henriques felt that good fielding is vital for a team and could switch it in their favour.&nbsp;

“I think fielding is a huge part of the game that doesn't get the praise and the acknowledgement it deserves. A lot of the best teams I've played with have had really good fielding setups,” said Henriques.

“If you can constantly save 5-10 runs in the field whilst the other teams are probably losing a few runs on the field everytime. If you take that half catch or the odd run-out chance, you do it multiple times in a season and it will probably get you two or three extra wins through the course of a season,” explained the 34-year-old.

Punjab Kings' will open their Indian Premier League 2021 campaign with Rajashtan Royals on April 12 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

(With Agency Inputs)

Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques recently led his team Sydney Sixers to a title win in Big Bash League (BBL) and said that he was looking to do the same with Punjab Kings' KL Rahul.

Australian all-rounder Moises Henriques recently led his team Sydney Sixers to a title win in Big Bash League (BBL) and said that he was looking to do the same with Punjab Kings' KL Rahul. “Just because you're the captain, it doesn't mean you run the show. I had 10 other very good players, very good leaders out there helping me,” the Punjab Kings website quoted Henriques as saying. “And now I'll be trying to do the same for KL (Rahul), whether it be while playing or watching the game. It is about trying to make the team get better from wherever I may be,” he added. Henriques felt that good fielding is vital for a team and could switch it in their favour. “I think fielding is a huge part of the game that doesn't get the praise and the acknowledgement it deserves. A lot of the best teams I've played with have had really good fielding setups,” said Henriques. “If you can constantly save 5-10 runs in the field whilst the other teams are probably losing a few runs on the field everytime. If you take that half catch or the odd run-out chance, you do it multiple times in a season and it will probably get you two or three extra wins through the course of a season,” explained the 34-year-old. Punjab Kings' will open their Indian Premier League 2021 campaign with Rajashtan Royals on April 12 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. (With Agency Inputs)

IPL 2021- 'I'll try to do same': BBL winning skipper on repeating same feat under KL Rahul

List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021

Riley Meredith, Shahrukh Khan: Surprise packages who can take IPL 2021 by storm

The rebranded Punjab Kings went to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction with the biggest purse and signed up some of the biggest names in the world of T20 cricket. With a well-settled squad and much-needed firepower at their helm, Punjab Kings would be looking to end their trophy drought and lift the coveted trophy in the 14th edition of the tournament, starting April 9.

In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, Anil Kumble, Director of Cricket Operations at Punjab Kings and the Chairman of ICC’s Cricket Committee, talked about the Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2021, auction plans, signing big-name players such as Dawid Malan and Jhye Richardson, bio-secure bubble and much more.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="559" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iETvzf4ytP0" title="YouTube video player" width="994"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will be held just within six months of the previous edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which was held in the UAE. With the players and coaching staff coming together after a brief gap, Kumble feels it has given a sense of continuity when it comes to team bonding and chemistry within the squad.

“Yes, it does give you some sort of continuity. As you're aware, last year was the first time that I got involved with this team. And, the entire support staff was new, the captain was new. I thought we had a really good campaign. Unfortunately, the points table doesn't reflect that. But, you know, we sort of did really well as a unit. And to have this competition again, within a span of six months, it doesn't seem like we've been away from each other. So when I met, players who sort of came from last year to this year, the retained players, it felt as though we had not left the bubble at all,” Kumble, who has a staggering 619 Test wickets for India, told WION in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/mayankcricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mayankcricket</a>: Thinking about hitting another 💯 vs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RR</a>? 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://t.co/7F6FNCCRq0">pic.twitter.com/7F6FNCCRq0</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1379343121218166784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Bio-secure bubbles have become a crucial part of an athlete’s life since the COVID-19 pandemic left the entire world stunned. With rising cases of COVID-19 across the nation, bio-bubbles will play a crucial role in ensuring IPL 2021 is conducted without any hitch. Kumble explained the experience of being in the bio-bubble for previous edition of IPL while revealing Punjab Kings have appointed a sports psychologist while keeping the mental well-being of everyone associated with the franchise in mind.

“See, for the first time, we sort of got into a bubble last year, for the first time in the IPL for everyone, it was the first time it was very different last year, because as you're aware, you know, for six months, nobody had sort of done anything. They were at home locked down, with no access to facilities, no access to training.&nbsp;

“So when we started last year, it was new to all of us. So we had to tread really, really carefully in terms of understanding what it takes to be a part of this. And, and I think, there were a lot of learnings from, from the experience that we had last year, and of course, from there on, you know, for me, this is a second bubble, but then the players have been in multiple other bubbles, whether it has been their international commitments or domestic commitments. So the players are used to it,” Kumble said.

“But having said that, what we have done as a leadership unit, as this year is to engage with a sports psychologist who's a part of our squad, and over the last two weeks that we've been a part of this bubble. The first week, of course, we were in quarantine, in isolation in our respective rooms, and post that we've been on the ground. So it's been a great help interacting with him, having a few team chats, and also individually connecting with him. So it's wonderful to have that experience and the expertise within the group. So that is something that we wanted to address. And I'm glad that we have, we have a professional on board,” India’s highest Test wicket-taker added.

<img alt="Kumble" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c65bc37c-8afb-4880-b9d4-3f1d21cc3d04" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kumble-2_1.JPG" />

Punjab Kings roped in the likes of Dawid Malan (INR 1.5 crore), Jhye Richardson (INR 14 crore), Riley Meredith (INR 8 crore), Moises Henriques (INR 4.2 crore), Jalaj Saxena (INR 30 lakh), Shahrukh Khan (INR 5.25 crore), Utkarsh Singh (INR 20 lakh), Saurabh Kumar (INR 20 lakh) in the IPL 2021 auction.&nbsp;

The KL Rahul-led outfit snapped the world’s number one T20I batsman – Malan – for his base price while also spending big on the likes of Jhye, Allen and Meredith.

So what was Punjab Kings’ plan ahead of the IPL 2021 auction?

“The idea was to, of course, fill the gaps that we require. But at the same time, make sure that we have enough experience with the batting, plus some firepower in the bowling and make sure that we have some young, exciting talent who are extractors who could be game-changers. And that's something that we wanted to focus on,” Kumble explained.

“So I think overall, you pick a squad, not worrying too much about where you're going to play. You want them to adapt to any condition. And that's the kind of squad that you want to choose from. And we are happy with the existing squad and I'm really happy with the way things have come along so far.

“What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of giving support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble elaborated.

<img alt="Kumble" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbd45973-3587-4748-961e-0ec78d9e3ca0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kumble-3_0.JPG" />

“So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner.

“For us, plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of freeing&nbsp;KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan, I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and we wanted to look at that it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squad&nbsp;to choose from,” he added.

In IPL 2020, Punjab Kings – then Kings XI Punjab – played some exciting cricket. While a couple of Super Overs, umpiring calls, and close matches, went against the outfit they caught the eyeballs with an impressive winning run in the later phase of the tournament. They had finished sixth after winning six matches and losing 8 out of their 14 games in the tournament.

With IPL 2021 being held in India but with a catch – no teams would be playing in their home stadium. The new regularities do bring new challenges into the scene but Kumble reckons players’ experience in playing in different conditions will come into play while adding the upcoming edition of the T20 tournament will also produce close matches considering every team is equally balanced on paper.

<img alt="Kumble" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e1521e6-871a-424a-9bb6-730b982ede8b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kumble-1_1.JPG" />

“Last year, I thought we really had a good squad we started off really well. We were a bit unlucky in some of the matches with the kind of cricket we played. I didn't I didn't mean the points table. But then I thought the kind of cricket that we played at the beginning of the IPL was really solid.

“Unfortunately, the results didn't go away a couple of close calls, Super Overs. I mean, I thought we were the most exciting team in the IPL because we played a lot more Super Overs and created that kind of an environment, you know, close finishes. So, yes, as you said, we came really, really close. And I was really proud of the team with the way we bounced back after six losses, you know, one out of seven and then to win five in a row. And yes, we sort of fell short towards the end. But that's the IPL. But we are really proud of the way we played, we were that close to qualifying and we believe that all matches are going to be tough. All the teams are equally balanced,” Kumble said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The mains had their 👀 glued on the practice match today 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a> <a href="https://t.co/GACe5zGESS">pic.twitter.com/GACe5zGESS</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1378701680749895681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“And as you said, the conditions are going to be fine. You can say neutral. But you know more. I think most of the players have played in all these venues. The four venues that we are going to play in, in all the players have played there. We know the conditions. So yes, you can call the neutral. But yeah, the conditions are probably the same for football teams. So all the players understand that,” he concluded.

Punjab Kings start their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;

<o:p></o:p>

The rebranded Punjab Kings went to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction with the biggest purse and signed up some of the biggest names in the world of T20 cricket.

The rebranded Punjab Kings went to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction with the biggest purse and signed up some of the biggest names in the world of T20 cricket. With a well-settled squad and much-needed firepower at their helm, Punjab Kings would be looking to end their trophy drought and lift the coveted trophy in the 14th edition of the tournament, starting April 9. In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, Anil Kumble, Director of Cricket Operations at Punjab Kings and the Chairman of ICC’s Cricket Committee, talked about the Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2021, auction plans, signing big-name players such as Dawid Malan and Jhye Richardson, bio-secure bubble and much more. × The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will be held just within six months of the previous edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which was held in the UAE. With the players and coaching staff coming together after a brief gap, Kumble feels it has given a sense of continuity when it comes to team bonding and chemistry within the squad. “Yes, it does give you some sort of continuity. As you're aware, last year was the first time that I got involved with this team. And, the entire support staff was new, the captain was new. I thought we had a really good campaign. Unfortunately, the points table doesn't reflect that. But, you know, we sort of did really well as a unit. And to have this competition again, within a span of six months, it doesn't seem like we've been away from each other. So when I met, players who sort of came from last year to this year, the retained players, it felt as though we had not left the bubble at all,” Kumble, who has a staggering 619 Test wickets for India, told WION in an exclusive interview. .@anilkumble1074 to @mayankcricket: Thinking about hitting another 💯 vs #RR? 😉#SaddaPunjab #IPL2021 #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/7F6FNCCRq0 — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 6, 2021 × Bio-secure bubbles have become a crucial part of an athlete’s life since the COVID-19 pandemic left the entire world stunned. With rising cases of COVID-19 across the nation, bio-bubbles will play a crucial role in ensuring IPL 2021 is conducted without any hitch. Kumble explained the experience of being in the bio-bubble for previous edition of IPL while revealing Punjab Kings have appointed a sports psychologist while keeping the mental well-being of everyone associated with the franchise in mind. “See, for the first time, we sort of got into a bubble last year, for the first time in the IPL for everyone, it was the first time it was very different last year, because as you're aware, you know, for six months, nobody had sort of done anything. They were at home locked down, with no access to facilities, no access to training. “So when we started last year, it was new to all of us. So we had to tread really, really carefully in terms of understanding what it takes to be a part of this. And, and I think, there were a lot of learnings from, from the experience that we had last year, and of course, from there on, you know, for me, this is a second bubble, but then the players have been in multiple other bubbles, whether it has been their international commitments or domestic commitments. So the players are used to it,” Kumble said. “But having said that, what we have done as a leadership unit, as this year is to engage with a sports psychologist who's a part of our squad, and over the last two weeks that we've been a part of this bubble. The first week, of course, we were in quarantine, in isolation in our respective rooms, and post that we've been on the ground. So it's been a great help interacting with him, having a few team chats, and also individually connecting with him. So it's wonderful to have that experience and the expertise within the group. So that is something that we wanted to address. And I'm glad that we have, we have a professional on board,” India’s highest Test wicket-taker added. Punjab Kings roped in the likes of Dawid Malan (INR 1.5 crore), Jhye Richardson (INR 14 crore), Riley Meredith (INR 8 crore), Moises Henriques (INR 4.2 crore), Jalaj Saxena (INR 30 lakh), Shahrukh Khan (INR 5.25 crore), Utkarsh Singh (INR 20 lakh), Saurabh Kumar (INR 20 lakh) in the IPL 2021 auction. The KL Rahul-led outfit snapped the world’s number one T20I batsman – Malan – for his base price while also spending big on the likes of Jhye, Allen and Meredith. So what was Punjab Kings’ plan ahead of the IPL 2021 auction? “The idea was to, of course, fill the gaps that we require. But at the same time, make sure that we have enough experience with the batting, plus some firepower in the bowling and make sure that we have some young, exciting talent who are extractors who could be game-changers. And that's something that we wanted to focus on,” Kumble explained. “So I think overall, you pick a squad, not worrying too much about where you're going to play. You want them to adapt to any condition. And that's the kind of squad that you want to choose from. And we are happy with the existing squad and I'm really happy with the way things have come along so far. “What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of giving support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble elaborated. “So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner. “For us, plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of freeing KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan, I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and we wanted to look at that it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squad to choose from,” he added. In IPL 2020, Punjab Kings – then Kings XI Punjab – played some exciting cricket. While a couple of Super Overs, umpiring calls, and close matches, went against the outfit they caught the eyeballs with an impressive winning run in the later phase of the tournament. They had finished sixth after winning six matches and losing 8 out of their 14 games in the tournament. With IPL 2021 being held in India but with a catch – no teams would be playing in their home stadium. The new regularities do bring new challenges into the scene but Kumble reckons players’ experience in playing in different conditions will come into play while adding the upcoming edition of the T20 tournament will also produce close matches considering every team is equally balanced on paper. “Last year, I thought we really had a good squad we started off really well. We were a bit unlucky in some of the matches with the kind of cricket we played. I didn't I didn't mean the points table. But then I thought the kind of cricket that we played at the beginning of the IPL was really solid. “Unfortunately, the results didn't go away a couple of close calls, Super Overs. I mean, I thought we were the most exciting team in the IPL because we played a lot more Super Overs and created that kind of an environment, you know, close finishes. So, yes, as you said, we came really, really close. And I was really proud of the team with the way we bounced back after six losses, you know, one out of seven and then to win five in a row. And yes, we sort of fell short towards the end. But that's the IPL. But we are really proud of the way we played, we were that close to qualifying and we believe that all matches are going to be tough. All the teams are equally balanced,” Kumble said. The mains had their 👀 glued on the practice match today 👌#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #IPL2021 @anilkumble1074 pic.twitter.com/GACe5zGESS — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 4, 2021 × “And as you said, the conditions are going to be fine. You can say neutral. But you know more. I think most of the players have played in all these venues. The four venues that we are going to play in, in all the players have played there. We know the conditions. So yes, you can call the neutral. But yeah, the conditions are probably the same for football teams. So all the players understand that,” he concluded. Punjab Kings start their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Anil Kumble to WION: With new additions, Punjab Kings got all bases covered at auction

Punjab Kings have been eyeing the coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy for long&nbsp;and with an eye to end the title jinx, the rebranded outfit would be heading into the 14th edition of the tournament after strengthening the squad at the auction table. With new additions in the team with the likes of Dawid Malan, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Shahrukh Khan among others, Punjab Kings are looking at a selection headache for the upcoming edition of the lucrative T20 tournament.&nbsp;

Anil Kumble, the Director of Cricket Operations at Punjab Kings, in an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, talked about the selection headache for the KL Rahul-led outfit while also sharing the plans for the auction.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="559" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iETvzf4ytP0" title="YouTube video player" width="994"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Punjab Kings signed a few big-name players in the world of T20 cricket during the 2021 auction. While they got the world’s number one T20I batsman Dawid Malan, surprisingly, for his base price, they broke the bank for the Australian troika of Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith and Moises Henriques. Additionally, they capped an impressive auction by signing some eye-catching domestic talents in the likes of Jalaj Saxena, Shahrukh Khan, Utkarsh Singh and Saurabh Kumar.

“I think people sort of tend to discuss the actual money spent on a particular player, whether that particular player is actually that valuable. I think in the overall scheme of things like I mentioned, it was a small auction, where the interest on one particular player or two particular players would be, you know, more than two or three franchises wanting that particular player. So, as I mentioned, we wanted to create some sort of options for us to have the firepower and some pace,” Kumble told WION in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;

“And that's why we looked at Riley Meredith. And we believe that somebody of his pace, raw pace, as somebody who can ball that consistently more than 145 kilometres per hour, we felt that that's something that we wanted as an option.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kumble" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f0b413d7-0572-4b8c-8d18-a69e6666b9d7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kumble-2_2.JPG" />

“Yes, you know, when you look at the money spent, you sort of think, ‘Oh, no, he hasn't played for Australia’ (at that point in time). Why are they spending so much as I mentioned in a small auction, it's very difficult to gauge the actual value that goes into picking a player, Jhye Richardson, we felt that, he could obviously support Mohammed Shami, our lead bowler, and if you can get someone bowling in difficult periods, like the powerplay, middle overs, and he's useful with the bat as well.&nbsp;

“See, sometimes you sort of pick players from the auction looking at this year. But you may also want to keep your mind for the following year, as well. We don't know what the rules are going to be. I think it's important to keep that kind of a vision for the future as well. So we felt Jhye, with his ability to swing the ball at pace, will be able to pick up wickets in the powerplay and of course at the dead, so those two will certainly add a lot of value to the already, you know, good base attack that we have and the experience of Shami and Chris Jordan, along with all the Indian youngsters who have done exceptionally well in domestic cricket,” he added.

“Last year, Arshdeep was really good for us. Ishan Porel and Darshan Nalkande have been really good at the domestic level. So we believe that we have a good bowling unit that we can sort of rotate and make sure that there are no skills we lack you know.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jitthe machaaenge sadde Kings dhoom, ae hain unha da 😍 team room 💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/FPYn9U2Pcu">pic.twitter.com/FPYn9U2Pcu</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1378304846487490562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The new additions to the squad bring a fresh selection headache for Kumble and Co. in the IPL 2021 auction. With different venues to play the tournament in India, Punjab Kings would be looking to utilize their bench strength and maximize the skills of the players.

“Yeah, it is. It's a good thing to have (selection headache), as I said, Digvijay, it's all about having your options, not necessary that all of them will play all the matches. You know, it's very difficult to have that.

“What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of give support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble said.

“So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner. Plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of you know them really free KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan. I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squat to choose from,” the former India captain and also the head of ICC’s Cricket Committee concluded.

Punjab Kings start their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Punjab Kings have been eyeing the coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy for long and with an eye to end the title jinx, the rebranded outfit would be heading into the 14th edition of the tournament after strengthening the squad at the auction table.

Punjab Kings have been eyeing the coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy for long and with an eye to end the title jinx, the rebranded outfit would be heading into the 14th edition of the tournament after strengthening the squad at the auction table. With new additions in the team with the likes of Dawid Malan, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Shahrukh Khan among others, Punjab Kings are looking at a selection headache for the upcoming edition of the lucrative T20 tournament. Anil Kumble, the Director of Cricket Operations at Punjab Kings, in an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, talked about the selection headache for the KL Rahul-led outfit while also sharing the plans for the auction. × Punjab Kings signed a few big-name players in the world of T20 cricket during the 2021 auction. While they got the world’s number one T20I batsman Dawid Malan, surprisingly, for his base price, they broke the bank for the Australian troika of Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith and Moises Henriques. Additionally, they capped an impressive auction by signing some eye-catching domestic talents in the likes of Jalaj Saxena, Shahrukh Khan, Utkarsh Singh and Saurabh Kumar. “I think people sort of tend to discuss the actual money spent on a particular player, whether that particular player is actually that valuable. I think in the overall scheme of things like I mentioned, it was a small auction, where the interest on one particular player or two particular players would be, you know, more than two or three franchises wanting that particular player. So, as I mentioned, we wanted to create some sort of options for us to have the firepower and some pace,” Kumble told WION in an exclusive interview. “And that's why we looked at Riley Meredith. And we believe that somebody of his pace, raw pace, as somebody who can ball that consistently more than 145 kilometres per hour, we felt that that's something that we wanted as an option. “Yes, you know, when you look at the money spent, you sort of think, ‘Oh, no, he hasn't played for Australia’ (at that point in time). Why are they spending so much as I mentioned in a small auction, it's very difficult to gauge the actual value that goes into picking a player, Jhye Richardson, we felt that, he could obviously support Mohammed Shami, our lead bowler, and if you can get someone bowling in difficult periods, like the powerplay, middle overs, and he's useful with the bat as well. “See, sometimes you sort of pick players from the auction looking at this year. But you may also want to keep your mind for the following year, as well. We don't know what the rules are going to be. I think it's important to keep that kind of a vision for the future as well. So we felt Jhye, with his ability to swing the ball at pace, will be able to pick up wickets in the powerplay and of course at the dead, so those two will certainly add a lot of value to the already, you know, good base attack that we have and the experience of Shami and Chris Jordan, along with all the Indian youngsters who have done exceptionally well in domestic cricket,” he added. “Last year, Arshdeep was really good for us. Ishan Porel and Darshan Nalkande have been really good at the domestic level. So we believe that we have a good bowling unit that we can sort of rotate and make sure that there are no skills we lack you know.” Jitthe machaaenge sadde Kings dhoom, ae hain unha da 😍 team room 💥#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/FPYn9U2Pcu — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 3, 2021 × The new additions to the squad bring a fresh selection headache for Kumble and Co. in the IPL 2021 auction. With different venues to play the tournament in India, Punjab Kings would be looking to utilize their bench strength and maximize the skills of the players. “Yeah, it is. It's a good thing to have (selection headache), as I said, Digvijay, it's all about having your options, not necessary that all of them will play all the matches. You know, it's very difficult to have that. “What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of give support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble said. “So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner. Plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of you know them really free KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan. I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squat to choose from,” the former India captain and also the head of ICC’s Cricket Committee concluded. Punjab Kings start their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings

With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city.&nbsp;

In a letter to CM Thackerey, a local resident from D Road – just across the Wankhede Stadium – have urged the authorities to shift IPL 2021 matches from the iconic venue as it is located in a residential area.

On Monday, a large number of people were seen standing outside a team hotel near Nariman Point in a bid to catch a glimpse of their favourite cricketers. And the local residents are fearing that incidents like this could help the dreaded virus to spread.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-2-key-foreign-players-to-miss-delhi-capitals-opening-match-vs-chennai-super-kings-375665" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings</a>

Notably, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai isn’t hosting any IPL 2021 matches with the iconic Wankhede Stadium being the host of all 10 games in the city.

Ashit Shroff, a resident of D-Road across Wankhede Stadium, who is also a member of the Marine Drive Residents' Association, has raised concern on behalf of all the residents regarding their health amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The resident, in his letter which has been duly received by the Maharashtra government on e-mail, said that loud noises and strong lighting affect the senior citizens living in the area while also saying that matches are bound to create parking issues for the D-Road residents. &nbsp;

He added, "On one hand, the city is deeply affected by COVID-19, and the state government is compelled to restrict religious and social activities like marriages, deaths, etc and contrary to this in these difficult times an IPL Cricket match of such a magnitude lasting over several days is permitted."

"We urge change in the location of IPL match to DY Patil stadium or any other venue which is in a non-residential area," he appealed.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-2021-fascinating-stats-from-tournament-history-375646" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOMaharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/L0i4HxClCk">pic.twitter.com/L0i4HxClCk</a>
— ASHIT SHROFF (@ashroff17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashroff17/status/1377933103570640896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In the letter, the residents have raised the concern of fans gathering outside the stadium and hotels to see the cricketers passing in their busses.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Sunday issued a guideline for the fresh restrictions amid the surge in COVID-19 cases in the state including night curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative.&nbsp;

However, the authorities have cleared the deck for IPL franchises to practice post 8pm given all the bio-bubble protocols are followed strictly.

Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.

With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city.

With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city. In a letter to CM Thackerey, a local resident from D Road – just across the Wankhede Stadium – have urged the authorities to shift IPL 2021 matches from the iconic venue as it is located in a residential area. On Monday, a large number of people were seen standing outside a team hotel near Nariman Point in a bid to catch a glimpse of their favourite cricketers. And the local residents are fearing that incidents like this could help the dreaded virus to spread. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings Notably, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai isn’t hosting any IPL 2021 matches with the iconic Wankhede Stadium being the host of all 10 games in the city. Ashit Shroff, a resident of D-Road across Wankhede Stadium, who is also a member of the Marine Drive Residents' Association, has raised concern on behalf of all the residents regarding their health amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The resident, in his letter which has been duly received by the Maharashtra government on e-mail, said that loud noises and strong lighting affect the senior citizens living in the area while also saying that matches are bound to create parking issues for the D-Road residents. He added, "On one hand, the city is deeply affected by COVID-19, and the state government is compelled to restrict religious and social activities like marriages, deaths, etc and contrary to this in these difficult times an IPL Cricket match of such a magnitude lasting over several days is permitted." "We urge change in the location of IPL match to DY Patil stadium or any other venue which is in a non-residential area," he appealed. WATCH: IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history @CMOMaharashtra pic.twitter.com/L0i4HxClCk — ASHIT SHROFF (@ashroff17) April 2, 2021 × In the letter, the residents have raised the concern of fans gathering outside the stadium and hotels to see the cricketers passing in their busses. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Sunday issued a guideline for the fresh restrictions amid the surge in COVID-19 cases in the state including night curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative. However, the authorities have cleared the deck for IPL franchises to practice post 8pm given all the bio-bubble protocols are followed strictly. Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.

Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India. The IPL 2021 is scheduled to commence on April 9 but with India registering over 1 lakh coronavirus cases, questions were raised whether IPL 2021 would go ahead as per schedule. Ganguly has now cleared the air regarding the doubts.

Ganguly’s comments come after the Maharashtra government announced weekend lockdown to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19.&nbsp;

"Everything will go on as per schedule," Ganguly told ANI.&nbsp;

Maharashtra is set to undergo strict weekend lockdown from Friday 8pm to Monday 7 am, said state Cabinet Minister Nawab Malik adding that essential services and basic transportation such as buses, trains and taxis will be allowed. 
Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is to host 10 IPL 2021 matches from April 10-25 with the first match scheduled to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-does-crickets-law-book-say-on-fakhar-zaman-quinton-de-kock-run-out-incident-375466" hreflang="en">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?</a>

Four franchises -- Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals have set up their base in Mumbai as of now. Whereas the fifth Mumbai-based franchise Kolkata Knight Riders will move to Chennai after playing their season opener against SunRisers Hyderabad on April 11.

The BCCI is also mulling players’ vaccination ahead of the showpiece T20 tournament. The BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has said that the board will get in touch with the Health Ministry for players' vaccination.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rajeev-shukla-confident-that-tournament-will-go-ahead-without-any-problem-375327" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem'</a>

"In order to cope with this coronavirus rise, I think the only solution is to get vaccinated. BCCI is also thinking on those lines that players should be vaccinated. Nobody knows when coronavirus is going to end and you can't give a deadline that by this time frame, it will not be there so players can play easily. So, I think now will have to think over that. Vaccination should be done for the players also," Shukla told ANI.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 is set to start from April 9 with RCB taking on MI in the season opener in Chennai.

<o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India. The IPL 2021 is scheduled to commence on April 9 but with India registering over 1 lakh coronavirus cases, questions were raised whether IPL 2021 would go ahead as per schedule. Ganguly has now cleared the air regarding the doubts. Ganguly’s comments come after the Maharashtra government announced weekend lockdown to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19. "Everything will go on as per schedule," Ganguly told ANI. Maharashtra is set to undergo strict weekend lockdown from Friday 8pm to Monday 7 am, said state Cabinet Minister Nawab Malik adding that essential services and basic transportation such as buses, trains and taxis will be allowed. Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is to host 10 IPL 2021 matches from April 10-25 with the first match scheduled to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings. ALSO READ: What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? Four franchises -- Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals have set up their base in Mumbai as of now. Whereas the fifth Mumbai-based franchise Kolkata Knight Riders will move to Chennai after playing their season opener against SunRisers Hyderabad on April 11. The BCCI is also mulling players’ vaccination ahead of the showpiece T20 tournament. The BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has said that the board will get in touch with the Health Ministry for players' vaccination. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem' "In order to cope with this coronavirus rise, I think the only solution is to get vaccinated. BCCI is also thinking on those lines that players should be vaccinated. Nobody knows when coronavirus is going to end and you can't give a deadline that by this time frame, it will not be there so players can play easily. So, I think now will have to think over that. Vaccination should be done for the players also," Shukla told ANI. IPL 2021 is set to start from April 9 with RCB taking on MI in the season opener in Chennai.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases

Royal Challengers Bangalore opener Devdutt Padikkal has tested positive for coronavirus ahead of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-lead-this-team-one-day-rishabh-pant-reacts-as-delhi-capitals-announce-him-as-captain-for-ipl-2021-374331" hreflang="en">'To lead this team one day...': Rishabh Pant reacts as Delhi Capitals announce him as captain for IPL 2021</a>

In a report by the Times of India, the Indian batsman is under isolation. The 20-year-old becomes the third player, after Nitish Rana and Axar Patel, to test positive for the virus.&nbsp;

Padikkal prolific run in the 2020 edition of the cash-rich league and continued his sublime form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament, where the 20-year-old became the first Indian player to smash four consecutive hundreds in List A cricket.

Staff members of Chennai Super Kings have also tested positive for the novel coronavirus. 10 groundsmen at the Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for the infectious virus which is the venue for the second match of the season between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;

As per BCCI's COVID guidelines for IPL, the concerned person must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or the date of collection of the sample which resulted in a positive RT-PCR report, whichever is earlier.

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to kick-off IPL 2021 in the season-opener against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai on April 9, 2021.

Royal Challengers Bangalore opener Devdutt Padikkal has tested positive for coronavirus ahead of the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: 'To lead this team one day.

Royal Challengers Bangalore opener Devdutt Padikkal has tested positive for coronavirus ahead of the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: 'To lead this team one day...': Rishabh Pant reacts as Delhi Capitals announce him as captain for IPL 2021 In a report by the Times of India, the Indian batsman is under isolation. The 20-year-old becomes the third player, after Nitish Rana and Axar Patel, to test positive for the virus. Padikkal prolific run in the 2020 edition of the cash-rich league and continued his sublime form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament, where the 20-year-old became the first Indian player to smash four consecutive hundreds in List A cricket. Staff members of Chennai Super Kings have also tested positive for the novel coronavirus. 10 groundsmen at the Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for the infectious virus which is the venue for the second match of the season between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. As per BCCI's COVID guidelines for IPL, the concerned person must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or the date of collection of the sample which resulted in a positive RT-PCR report, whichever is earlier. Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to kick-off IPL 2021 in the season-opener against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai on April 9, 2021.

RCB opener Devdutt Padikkal tests positive for COVID-19: Reports

Chennai Super Kings' batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is excited to leave a mark in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, however, he felt bad that his national teammate Hanuma Vihari went unsold for the cash-rich T20 league.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mike-hussey-hopeful-about-chennai-super-kings-excellent-additions-375271" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Mike Hussey hopeful about Chennai Super King's 'excellent additions'</a>

In 2019, Hanuma Vihari played for SunRisers Hyderabad but has gone unsold ever since.&nbsp;

“Last few years, I’m the only one who has been missing out [on playing in the IPL] from the Indian team. The only guy missing out at this stage is Hanuma Vihari. I feel for him. He was previously part of the IPL. I feel that he should also be part of the IPL,” Pujara said in an interaction with ESPNCricinfo.

Pujara talked about getting another chance in the IPL and said that he was pleased with the development as his contribution for Team India is getting noticed.&nbsp;

“I’m really pleased that what I’ve done for the Indian team is noticed and I got results for that. I was told when I was picked, all the franchises clapped [in the auction room]. I feel that when you are doing something for the Indian team, people love it. They know the value I bring in. Not just the franchises, almost all my [India] team-mates were really happy for me,” the batsman added.

According to the 33-year-old, white-ball cricket is easier than red-ball cricket as Test has way lot more pressure.&nbsp;

“I definitely think so (on whether it is easier for someone who can tackle red-ball cricket to perform in white-ball cricket), especially the way the white ball travels.

“It is just about making the mental change. I feel that mentally if you are ready to make some adjustments, you don’t need to take a lot of pressure. In Test cricket, there is a lot of pressure; there is a price on your wicket. But in the shorter format, you just need to express yourself and play all the shots you can,” Pujara signed off.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings' batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is excited to leave a mark in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, however, he felt bad that his national teammate Hanuma Vihari went unsold for the cash-rich T20 league.

Chennai Super Kings' batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is excited to leave a mark in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, however, he felt bad that his national teammate Hanuma Vihari went unsold for the cash-rich T20 league. Also read: IPL 2021- Mike Hussey hopeful about Chennai Super King's 'excellent additions' In 2019, Hanuma Vihari played for SunRisers Hyderabad but has gone unsold ever since. “Last few years, I’m the only one who has been missing out [on playing in the IPL] from the Indian team. The only guy missing out at this stage is Hanuma Vihari. I feel for him. He was previously part of the IPL. I feel that he should also be part of the IPL,” Pujara said in an interaction with ESPNCricinfo. Pujara talked about getting another chance in the IPL and said that he was pleased with the development as his contribution for Team India is getting noticed. “I’m really pleased that what I’ve done for the Indian team is noticed and I got results for that. I was told when I was picked, all the franchises clapped [in the auction room]. I feel that when you are doing something for the Indian team, people love it. They know the value I bring in. Not just the franchises, almost all my [India] team-mates were really happy for me,” the batsman added. According to the 33-year-old, white-ball cricket is easier than red-ball cricket as Test has way lot more pressure. “I definitely think so (on whether it is easier for someone who can tackle red-ball cricket to perform in white-ball cricket), especially the way the white ball travels. “It is just about making the mental change. I feel that mentally if you are ready to make some adjustments, you don’t need to take a lot of pressure. In Test cricket, there is a lot of pressure; there is a price on your wicket. But in the shorter format, you just need to express yourself and play all the shots you can,” Pujara signed off.

'I feel for him': Cheteshwar Pujara on Hanuma Vihari going unsold in IPL

Chennai Super Kings batting coach Mike Hussey feels that the team has some "excellent addition" ahead of the Indian Premier League 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-opener-devdutt-padikkal-tests-positive-for-covid-19-reports-375238" hreflang="en">RCB opener Devdutt Padikkal tests positive for COVID-19: Reports</a>

The MS Dhoni-led squad are training at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai where they will play the first five of their 14 matches in the upcoming season of the cash-rich T20 league.&nbsp;

Former Aussie felt that conditions at Wankhede are good for both the batsmen and the bowlers and said that the Men in Yellow could start a very confident campaign.&nbsp;

“A good start would be nice because the players will then relax and hopefully play their best cricket with confidence, otherwise the pressure can build up on everyone involved,” said Hussey during an interview on CSK's website.

Chennai Super Kings under the leadership of MS Dhoni have been the most consistent franchise in the Indian Premier League. The three-time champions have made it to the playoffs in every IPL season until the 2020 season.&nbsp;

The franchise has bought six new players this year, including Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham, and Robin Uthappa.&nbsp;

“I think they are all excellent additions. Moeen is an excellent all-rounder, Robin has a lot of experience and has been a quality performer in the past and Gowtham has some genuine talent that we can look to develop further,” Hussey continued.

“I feel we have a very balanced squad that has most bases covered and with depth in most areas. The guys are in really good spirits and have been and are preparing extremely well,” he concluded.

Chennai Super Kings batting coach Mike Hussey feels that the team has some "excellent addition" ahead of the Indian Premier League 2021. ALSO READ: RCB opener Devdutt Padikkal tests positive for COVID-19: Reports The MS Dhoni-led squad are training at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai where they will play the first five of their 14 matches in the upcoming season of the cash-rich T20 league.

Chennai Super Kings batting coach Mike Hussey feels that the team has some "excellent addition" ahead of the Indian Premier League 2021. ALSO READ: RCB opener Devdutt Padikkal tests positive for COVID-19: Reports The MS Dhoni-led squad are training at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai where they will play the first five of their 14 matches in the upcoming season of the cash-rich T20 league. Former Aussie felt that conditions at Wankhede are good for both the batsmen and the bowlers and said that the Men in Yellow could start a very confident campaign. “A good start would be nice because the players will then relax and hopefully play their best cricket with confidence, otherwise the pressure can build up on everyone involved,” said Hussey during an interview on CSK's website. Chennai Super Kings under the leadership of MS Dhoni have been the most consistent franchise in the Indian Premier League. The three-time champions have made it to the playoffs in every IPL season until the 2020 season. The franchise has bought six new players this year, including Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham, and Robin Uthappa. “I think they are all excellent additions. Moeen is an excellent all-rounder, Robin has a lot of experience and has been a quality performer in the past and Gowtham has some genuine talent that we can look to develop further,” Hussey continued. “I feel we have a very balanced squad that has most bases covered and with depth in most areas. The guys are in really good spirits and have been and are preparing extremely well,” he concluded.

IPL 2021- Mike Hussey hopeful about Chennai Super King's 'excellent additions'

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-batsman-ollie-pope-reveals-skipper-virat-kohlis-warning-during-first-test-374978" hreflang="en">English batsman Ollie Pope reveals skipper Virat Kohli's warning during first Test</a>

"Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it's on. V v v simple!," Pietersen tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Cricket boards need to realise that the <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> is the biggest show in town. 
 
DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it’s on. 
 
V v v simple!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1377961629187457024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

England Cricket Board (ECB) and New Zealand Cricket have publicly said that they will provide a window for their players so that they could experience pressure situations while playing along with big names in the game.&nbsp;

14 english cricketers are set to feature in this year's Indian Premier League. The list includes England skipper Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler, Stokes, Johnny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Sam Billings, Liam Livingstone and no.1 T20I batsman Dawid Malan. Jofra Archer is likely to miss half of the season after a serious shoulder injury.&nbsp;

The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will kick off on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bangalore. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata &amp; Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played. ALSO READ: English batsman Ollie Pope reveals skipper Virat Kohli's warning during first Test "Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it's on. V v v simple!," Pietersen tweeted. Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it’s on. V v v simple! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) April 2, 2021 × England Cricket Board (ECB) and New Zealand Cricket have publicly said that they will provide a window for their players so that they could experience pressure situations while playing along with big names in the game. 14 english cricketers are set to feature in this year's Indian Premier League. The list includes England skipper Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler, Stokes, Johnny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Sam Billings, Liam Livingstone and no.1 T20I batsman Dawid Malan. Jofra Archer is likely to miss half of the season after a serious shoulder injury. The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will kick off on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bangalore. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata & Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each.

'IPL is biggest show in town': Kevin Pietersen urges cricket board not to schedule any international games

Eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for COVID-19. The results came in after tests were conducted ahead of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-excited-that-we-are-playing-in-india-again-rcb-skipper-virat-kohli-374956" hreflang="en">'Very excited that we are playing in India again': RCB skipper Virat Kohli</a>

The Wankhede Stadium is set to host 10 matches in the cash-rich T20 league from April 10 to 25.

Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals will play the first match at Wankhede on April 10.&nbsp;

Several groundsmen have to travel daily (mostly via trains) to come to the ground. However, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is now planning to house the staff at the ground itself till the matches are over.

According to Sportstar, all the 19 ground staff members at the Wankhede Stadium underwent routine RT-PCR tests over the last week. Three had tested positive during tests conducted on March 26. The remaining five more reports from the tests conducted on April 1 returned positive a day later, taking the overall tally to eight.

The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata are set to host IPL 2021 matches with Chennai hosting the season opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 9. The playoffs and final of IPL 2021 will be played at the world's largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the summit clash scheduled on May 30. &nbsp;

Each franchise will play at four venues during the league stage. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata &amp; Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each. All matches will be played at neutral venues and no team will play at their home venue. All teams will play at 4 out of 6 venues during the league stage.

Eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for COVID-19. The results came in after tests were conducted ahead of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League.

Eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for COVID-19. The results came in after tests were conducted ahead of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: 'Very excited that we are playing in India again': RCB skipper Virat Kohli The Wankhede Stadium is set to host 10 matches in the cash-rich T20 league from April 10 to 25. Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals will play the first match at Wankhede on April 10. Several groundsmen have to travel daily (mostly via trains) to come to the ground. However, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is now planning to house the staff at the ground itself till the matches are over. According to Sportstar, all the 19 ground staff members at the Wankhede Stadium underwent routine RT-PCR tests over the last week. Three had tested positive during tests conducted on March 26. The remaining five more reports from the tests conducted on April 1 returned positive a day later, taking the overall tally to eight. The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata are set to host IPL 2021 matches with Chennai hosting the season opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 9. The playoffs and final of IPL 2021 will be played at the world's largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the summit clash scheduled on May 30. Each franchise will play at four venues during the league stage. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata & Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each. All matches will be played at neutral venues and no team will play at their home venue. All teams will play at 4 out of 6 venues during the league stage.

IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19

Australian batsman Steve Smith on Saturday joined his new franchise Delhi Capitals and will go through a seven-day mandatory quarantine ahead of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Former Rajasthan Royals skipper joined the Delhi Capitals after they bought him for 2.2 crore rupees in this year's IPL auctions in February.&nbsp;

The franchise took to Twitter and shared the image of the star batsman and the Gateway of India in one frame and wrote: "2 monumental icons in one frame. Welcome to the DC family, @stevesmith49".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
𝟮 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗲 😌 
 
Welcome to the DC family, <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> 🙌🏽💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TajMahalMumbai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TajMahalMumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/51IfI2OjGI">pic.twitter.com/51IfI2OjGI</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1378250172526817280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Smith and his Australian teammate Marcus Stoinis will hardly get any time to train before their team's first match in the cash-rich T20 league on April 10. The team led by Rishabh Pant will face MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium.&nbsp;

Smith's 2011 World Cup captain Ricky Ponting is the head coach of the team.&nbsp;

However, the franchise has had couple of setbacks before the league kicked off. Their star captain Shreyas Iyer has been injured and is feared will miss the complete season. Their star-allrounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the league.&nbsp;

Australian batsman Steve Smith on Saturday joined his new franchise Delhi Capitals and will go through a seven-day mandatory quarantine ahead of the Indian Premier League.

Australian batsman Steve Smith on Saturday joined his new franchise Delhi Capitals and will go through a seven-day mandatory quarantine ahead of the Indian Premier League. Former Rajasthan Royals skipper joined the Delhi Capitals after they bought him for 2.2 crore rupees in this year's IPL auctions in February. The franchise took to Twitter and shared the image of the star batsman and the Gateway of India in one frame and wrote: "2 monumental icons in one frame. Welcome to the DC family, @stevesmith49". 𝟮 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗲 😌 Welcome to the DC family, @stevesmith49 🙌🏽💙#YehHaiNayiDilli @TajMahalMumbai pic.twitter.com/51IfI2OjGI — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 3, 2021 × Smith and his Australian teammate Marcus Stoinis will hardly get any time to train before their team's first match in the cash-rich T20 league on April 10. The team led by Rishabh Pant will face MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium. Smith's 2011 World Cup captain Ricky Ponting is the head coach of the team. However, the franchise has had couple of setbacks before the league kicked off. Their star captain Shreyas Iyer has been injured and is feared will miss the complete season. Their star-allrounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the league.

IPL 2021- Delhi Capitals' star batsman Steve Smith arrives in Mumbai

Delhi Capitals have suffered another blow as their star all-rounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 with less than a week to go for the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-franchises-call-for-stricter-protocols-after-groundsmen-test-positive-for-covid-19-375141" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Franchises call for stricter protocols after groundsmen test positive for COVID-19</a>

According to ANI, the Delhi Capitals camp confirmed that the spinner has contracted the virus. "Unfortunately, Axar has tested positive. He is isolating and all protocols are being followed," the source told ANI.

Axar Patel becomes the second player after KKR's Nitish Rana to have tested positive for the dreadful virus. Rana, however, returned to the squad after testing negative.&nbsp;

As per BCCI's COVID guidelines for IPL, the concerned person must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or the date of collection of the sample which resulted in a positive RT-PCR report, whichever is earlier.

The news comes after eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium tested positive for COVID-19.

The Wankhede Stadium is set to host 10 matches in the cash-rich T20 league from April 10 to 25.

Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals will play the first match at Wankhede on April 10.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals have suffered another blow as their star all-rounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 with less than a week to go for the Indian Premier League.

Delhi Capitals have suffered another blow as their star all-rounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 with less than a week to go for the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Franchises call for stricter protocols after groundsmen test positive for COVID-19 According to ANI, the Delhi Capitals camp confirmed that the spinner has contracted the virus. "Unfortunately, Axar has tested positive. He is isolating and all protocols are being followed," the source told ANI. Axar Patel becomes the second player after KKR's Nitish Rana to have tested positive for the dreadful virus. Rana, however, returned to the squad after testing negative. As per BCCI's COVID guidelines for IPL, the concerned person must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or the date of collection of the sample which resulted in a positive RT-PCR report, whichever is earlier. The news comes after eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium tested positive for COVID-19. The Wankhede Stadium is set to host 10 matches in the cash-rich T20 league from April 10 to 25. Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals will play the first match at Wankhede on April 10.

IPL 2021- Delhi Capitals' all-rounder Axar Patel tests positive for COVID-19

Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers remains an elite white-ball cricketer despite years after retirement from the international level. He has been a part of the Indian Premier League right from the inaugural season (2008) and has played against and with several big names in the cash-rich T20 league. The Proteas legend picked his IPL all-time XI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-pant-doesnt-have-to-worry-about-being-like-ms-dhoni-can-be-better-says-parthiv-374766" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Pant doesn't have to worry about being like MS Dhoni, can be better, says Parthiv</a>

"Last night I was thinking that if I pick my IPL XI and I include myself, how bad would that look. So, opening the batting, I would pick someone whom I started with at Delhi, Viru (Virender Sehwag) at 1 and someone who I think has played some of the best cricket in the world in the last five years, Rohit at No. 2," De Villiers told Cricbuzz in an interaction.

He named his current skipper, Virat Kohli, at number three.&nbsp;

"Then obviously Virat at No. 3, followed by I’d say either Williamson, or Smith, or myself… these are the two replacements. Ben Stokes at 5, MS at six as captain, and at No. 7, I’d put Jaddu, Mr Jadeja. Rashid Khan at 8, Bhuvi at 9, Kagiso Rabada at 10 and Bumrah at 11," de Villiers said.

"I’d put Stokes because obviously we know what he can do with the bat, but also considering that extra seaming option. Got the two spinners and then Bumrah, Rabada and Bhuvi as fast bowlers. So that pretty much covers everything," de Villiers mentioned.

AB de Villiers all-time XI: Virender Sehwag, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson/Steve Smith/AB de Villiers, Ben Stokes, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers remains an elite white-ball cricketer despite years after retirement from the international level. He has been a part of the Indian Premier League right from the inaugural season (2008) and has played against and with several big names in the cash-rich T20 league.

Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers remains an elite white-ball cricketer despite years after retirement from the international level. He has been a part of the Indian Premier League right from the inaugural season (2008) and has played against and with several big names in the cash-rich T20 league. The Proteas legend picked his IPL all-time XI. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Pant doesn't have to worry about being like MS Dhoni, can be better, says Parthiv "Last night I was thinking that if I pick my IPL XI and I include myself, how bad would that look. So, opening the batting, I would pick someone whom I started with at Delhi, Viru (Virender Sehwag) at 1 and someone who I think has played some of the best cricket in the world in the last five years, Rohit at No. 2," De Villiers told Cricbuzz in an interaction. He named his current skipper, Virat Kohli, at number three. "Then obviously Virat at No. 3, followed by I’d say either Williamson, or Smith, or myself… these are the two replacements. Ben Stokes at 5, MS at six as captain, and at No. 7, I’d put Jaddu, Mr Jadeja. Rashid Khan at 8, Bhuvi at 9, Kagiso Rabada at 10 and Bumrah at 11," de Villiers said. "I’d put Stokes because obviously we know what he can do with the bat, but also considering that extra seaming option. Got the two spinners and then Bumrah, Rabada and Bhuvi as fast bowlers. So that pretty much covers everything," de Villiers mentioned. AB de Villiers all-time XI: Virender Sehwag, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson/Steve Smith/AB de Villiers, Ben Stokes, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Jasprit Bumrah

'Pretty much covers everything': RCB star AB De Villiers picks his IPL all-time XI

Chennai Super Kings will seek redemption in IPL 2021 after putting a poor show in the 2020 season. The team led by MS Dhoni finished seventh in the Indian Premier League 2020 after getting 12 points from 14 games. &nbsp;

However, former Indian cricketer turned commentator Aakash Chopra made some bold predictions about Chennai as he felt that the team could face multiple issues during the upcoming season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-will-be-a-talismanic-leader-suresh-raina-on-rishabh-pant-leading-delhi-capitals-374423" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals</a>

The COVID-hit season will be played in the caravan format and no team will play on their home ground. Due to this, Chennai will not play at the MA Chidambaram but will play five matches at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and play four matches at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. Their three matches in the third leg will be played at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

They will end their league stage of the 2021 season at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

In a video uploaded by Chopra, he felt that Chennai Super Kings' combination will find it difficult to adapt to pitch conditions at the Wankhede Stadium.&nbsp;

"In Mumbai, the pacers are more successful. 70% of the wickets have been taken by pace bowlers and it's not particularly helpful to spinners and Chennai is a slightly spin-heavy team. They have Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner. They bought Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham. So, the list of spinners in their team is still quite high. Despite letting Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh) and [Piyush] Chawla go, they are a spin-heavy unit.

"Their fast bowling doesn't have a lot of firepower. Yes, they have Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Sam Curran, Lungi Ngidi, Dwayne Bravo, and Josh Hazlewood. But is that going to be enough? What will be the ideal balance?" added Chopra.

Chopra went on to add that if Chennai led by MS Dhoni, wins even three out of these five matches, it could be counted as an achievement.&nbsp;

"You are required to score high in Mumbai. The first innings winning score is nearly 180. So, they'll have to play a different brand of cricket there. If Chennai Super Kings can win three of their first five games in Mumbai, I believe that will be a big achievement. My prediction is that they might not start very well," said Chopra.

Aakash Chopra, however, expects Dhoni and Co. to do well in Delhi as it is a small ground and assists a lot of spinners.&nbsp;

"They should be alright in Delhi because it's a small ground and it (the wicket) assists the spinner a lot. The ball turns and also keeps low at times. The pitch will suit their brand of cricket," added Chopra.

"They do not have a good-enough bowling attack for Bengaluru. Bengaluru is bat vs bat contest and the overall bowling firepower required there is not there with Chennai. So, Bangalore is going to hurt them again."

"Kolkata, [looks] even-stevens. It's become a high-scoring, pace-friendly ground as well. I think Chennai is going to face some difficulties there as well," added Chopra.&nbsp;

Chennai are set to kick-off their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings will seek redemption in IPL 2021 after putting a poor show in the 2020 season. The team led by MS Dhoni finished seventh in the Indian Premier League 2020 after getting 12 points from 14 games.

Chennai Super Kings will seek redemption in IPL 2021 after putting a poor show in the 2020 season. The team led by MS Dhoni finished seventh in the Indian Premier League 2020 after getting 12 points from 14 games. However, former Indian cricketer turned commentator Aakash Chopra made some bold predictions about Chennai as he felt that the team could face multiple issues during the upcoming season. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals The COVID-hit season will be played in the caravan format and no team will play on their home ground. Due to this, Chennai will not play at the MA Chidambaram but will play five matches at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and play four matches at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. Their three matches in the third leg will be played at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. They will end their league stage of the 2021 season at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. In a video uploaded by Chopra, he felt that Chennai Super Kings' combination will find it difficult to adapt to pitch conditions at the Wankhede Stadium. "In Mumbai, the pacers are more successful. 70% of the wickets have been taken by pace bowlers and it's not particularly helpful to spinners and Chennai is a slightly spin-heavy team. They have Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner. They bought Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham. So, the list of spinners in their team is still quite high. Despite letting Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh) and [Piyush] Chawla go, they are a spin-heavy unit. "Their fast bowling doesn't have a lot of firepower. Yes, they have Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Sam Curran, Lungi Ngidi, Dwayne Bravo, and Josh Hazlewood. But is that going to be enough? What will be the ideal balance?" added Chopra. Chopra went on to add that if Chennai led by MS Dhoni, wins even three out of these five matches, it could be counted as an achievement. "You are required to score high in Mumbai. The first innings winning score is nearly 180. So, they'll have to play a different brand of cricket there. If Chennai Super Kings can win three of their first five games in Mumbai, I believe that will be a big achievement. My prediction is that they might not start very well," said Chopra. Aakash Chopra, however, expects Dhoni and Co. to do well in Delhi as it is a small ground and assists a lot of spinners. "They should be alright in Delhi because it's a small ground and it (the wicket) assists the spinner a lot. The ball turns and also keeps low at times. The pitch will suit their brand of cricket," added Chopra. "They do not have a good-enough bowling attack for Bengaluru. Bengaluru is bat vs bat contest and the overall bowling firepower required there is not there with Chennai. So, Bangalore is going to hurt them again." "Kolkata, [looks] even-stevens. It's become a high-scoring, pace-friendly ground as well. I think Chennai is going to face some difficulties there as well," added Chopra. Chennai are set to kick-off their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10.

IPL- 'Might not start very well': Aakash Chopra predicts Chennai Super Kings' 2021 campaign

Former Indian cricket and Chennai Super Kings star Suresh Raina congratulated Rishabh Pant on being named the captain for Delhi Capitals for IPL 2021. Raina believes that Pant will be "a talismanic leader" for the team.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-makes-the-game-rcbs-devdutt-padikkal-on-batting-alongside-skipper-virat-kohli-374387" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Makes the game..': RCB's Devdutt Padikkal on batting alongside skipper Virat Kohli</a>

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Heartiest congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> on being named the captain of <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> for this season. I am sure he will be a talismanic leader and will be donning this new cap with pride.🙌
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1376938912036188160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

After being named captain, Chennai Super Kings batsman Suresh Raina took to Twitter and said: "Heartiest congratulations to @RishabhPant17 on being named the captain of @DelhiCapitals for this season. I am sure he will be a talismanic leader and will be donning this new cap with pride."

Rishabh Pant began his journey in the Indian Premier League in 2016 for Delhi. The brute southpaw made headlines in 2018 when he smashed 684 runs in the cash-rich T20 league. He was named the vice-captain in IPL 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-name-rishabh-pant-as-captain-for-ipl-2021-374326" hreflang="en">Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021</a>

"Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant said after being appointed DC captain for IPL 2021.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant is having a prolific run. The Indian wicketkeeper cemented his position in the playing XI after a wonderful performance agains Australia and England. &nbsp;

Former Indian cricket and Chennai Super Kings star Suresh Raina congratulated Rishabh Pant on being named the captain for Delhi Capitals for IPL 2021. Raina believes that Pant will be "a talismanic leader" for the team.

Former Indian cricket and Chennai Super Kings star Suresh Raina congratulated Rishabh Pant on being named the captain for Delhi Capitals for IPL 2021. Raina believes that Pant will be "a talismanic leader" for the team. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Makes the game..': RCB's Devdutt Padikkal on batting alongside skipper Virat Kohli Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury. Heartiest congratulations to @RishabhPant17 on being named the captain of @DelhiCapitals for this season. I am sure he will be a talismanic leader and will be donning this new cap with pride.🙌 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) March 30, 2021 × After being named captain, Chennai Super Kings batsman Suresh Raina took to Twitter and said: "Heartiest congratulations to @RishabhPant17 on being named the captain of @DelhiCapitals for this season. I am sure he will be a talismanic leader and will be donning this new cap with pride." Rishabh Pant began his journey in the Indian Premier League in 2016 for Delhi. The brute southpaw made headlines in 2018 when he smashed 684 runs in the cash-rich T20 league. He was named the vice-captain in IPL 2020. ALSO READ: Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021 "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant said after being appointed DC captain for IPL 2021. Rishabh Pant is having a prolific run. The Indian wicketkeeper cemented his position in the playing XI after a wonderful performance agains Australia and England.

IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai. Kohli would need to undergo the mandatory one-week-long quarantine put in place as part of IPL SOPs&nbsp;after the Indian skipper exited the bio-secure bubble in Pune following India’s ODI series against England.&nbsp;

RCB will play their first phase of IPL 2021 matches, including the season opener on April 9 against defending champions Mumbai Indians, in Chennai.&nbsp;

Kohli has been part of bio-secure bubbles since the last IPL. While he exited it during India’s Test series against Australia to be with his wife Anushka Sharma for the birth of their first child, Kohli was back in the bubble for the entire home tour against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

The hectic schedule comes into question again as India will enter another bio-bubble soon after IPL 2021 for the final of the ICC World Test Championship in England in June. The WTC final will be followed by a five-Test series in England. The Men in Blue would then engage for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November in India.&nbsp;

Kohli, on Sunday, highlighted the hectic scheduling while citing players mental health as they are moving from one bubble to another amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in bubbles for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-to-undergo-shoulder-surgery-on-april-8-374083" hreflang="en">Shreyas Iyer to undergo shoulder surgery on April 8</a>

"Sometimes you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL."&nbsp;

The likes of&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal and Mohammed Siraj would be available to train for RCB from Tuesday. The majority of the RCB squad had reached Chennai last week including team director Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar. AB de Villiers also arrived in Chennai at the weekend.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 commences from April 9.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai.

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai. Kohli would need to undergo the mandatory one-week-long quarantine put in place as part of IPL SOPs after the Indian skipper exited the bio-secure bubble in Pune following India’s ODI series against England. RCB will play their first phase of IPL 2021 matches, including the season opener on April 9 against defending champions Mumbai Indians, in Chennai. Kohli has been part of bio-secure bubbles since the last IPL. While he exited it during India’s Test series against Australia to be with his wife Anushka Sharma for the birth of their first child, Kohli was back in the bubble for the entire home tour against England. ALSO READ: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat The hectic schedule comes into question again as India will enter another bio-bubble soon after IPL 2021 for the final of the ICC World Test Championship in England in June. The WTC final will be followed by a five-Test series in England. The Men in Blue would then engage for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November in India. Kohli, on Sunday, highlighted the hectic scheduling while citing players mental health as they are moving from one bubble to another amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in bubbles for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength” ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer to undergo shoulder surgery on April 8 "Sometimes you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL." The likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Mohammed Siraj would be available to train for RCB from Tuesday. The majority of the RCB squad had reached Chennai last week including team director Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar. AB de Villiers also arrived in Chennai at the weekend. IPL 2021 commences from April 9.

IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1

England's star pacer Jofra Archer is likely to miss the ODI series against India and half of the Indian Premier League season after skipper Eoin Morgan said the bowler's elbow injury has worsened and needs attention.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-would-definitely-like-virat-kohli-on-opening-the-innings-for-team-india-in-future-372079">'I would definitely like...': Kohli on opening the innings for India in future</a>

Asked about Archer's availability for the three-match ODI series beginning on Tuesday, Morgan told a video conference: "Not quite sure yet. I think we're going to wait until tonight and tomorrow to see how Jofra has pulled up.

"He's clearly had a progressive injury that has become worse and does need attention. It'll be over to our medical team and hopefully, the decision that Jofra comes to will be the best for us in the long term."

Archer is England's key bowler in the upcoming T20 World Cup. His absence could leave a big void in the playing XI. In terms of IPL, Rajasthan royal bought the player for INR 7.2 crores in 2018. And has been a part of the team ever since. The cash-rich league is set to kick off on April 9.&nbsp;

"I think it is rare that a bowler isn't managing pain," Morgan said.

"What they do is a tough job. If you ever ask any of them if they're pain-free, it's a pretty rare instance if they say yes."

England's star pacer Jofra Archer is likely to miss the ODI series against India and half of the Indian Premier League season after skipper Eoin Morgan said the bowler's elbow injury has worsened and needs attention.

England's star pacer Jofra Archer is likely to miss the ODI series against India and half of the Indian Premier League season after skipper Eoin Morgan said the bowler's elbow injury has worsened and needs attention. ALSO READ: 'I would definitely like...': Kohli on opening the innings for India in future Asked about Archer's availability for the three-match ODI series beginning on Tuesday, Morgan told a video conference: "Not quite sure yet. I think we're going to wait until tonight and tomorrow to see how Jofra has pulled up. "He's clearly had a progressive injury that has become worse and does need attention. It'll be over to our medical team and hopefully, the decision that Jofra comes to will be the best for us in the long term." Archer is England's key bowler in the upcoming T20 World Cup. His absence could leave a big void in the playing XI. In terms of IPL, Rajasthan royal bought the player for INR 7.2 crores in 2018. And has been a part of the team ever since. The cash-rich league is set to kick off on April 9. "I think it is rare that a bowler isn't managing pain," Morgan said. "What they do is a tough job. If you ever ask any of them if they're pain-free, it's a pretty rare instance if they say yes."

English paceman Jofra Archer likely to miss ODI series and IPL due to injury

JSW-GMR co-owned IPL franchise Delhi Capitals on Friday revealed the season’s official playing jersey in a unique ceremony in the presence of fans. The franchise, that believes&nbsp;in a ‘Fans First’ approach, handpicked some of its top fans and invited them over for a surprise to the Delhi Capitals office.

What followed was an unforgettable experience for the fans. After a heartfelt conversation with CEO Vinod Bisht about their favourite players and this season’s expectations, the fans witnessed the unveiling of the new jersey. These fans were the very first ones to see the new jersey, even before the players. Getting their hands on their very own customised DC jerseys left the fans elated, but the best was saved for the end. Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer and opener Shikhar Dhawan connected with them live over a video call, to catch a glimpse of the jersey and chat with the fans, making it a rare and precious experience.

"Delhi’s fans have stood by the team through ups and downs, so it is imperative for us to make them feel special,” said Chairman and co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi, on the occasion. “To take the fan experience to a different level, we also organised a photoshoot for the select fans in the new jersey, just like we do for the players. We are glad to have given them a memorable experience. It’s also a very proud moment for all of us at GMR to see the group’s logo on the arm. We cannot wait for the league to kick off, I wish the team all the very best.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-name-suryakumar-yadav-prasidh-krishna-for-england-odis-check-full-squad-371614" hreflang="en">India name Suryakumar Yadav, Prasidh Krishna for England ODIs - Check full squad</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NayiDilliKiNayiJersey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NayiDilliKiNayiJersey</a> 🚨 
 
That's it. That's the caption 😉 
 
Read more 👉🏻 <a href="https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6">https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/nG5PyvIjOF">pic.twitter.com/nG5PyvIjOF</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1372797484129394694?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The new Delhi Capitals jersey will continue to be dominated by blue (representing stability and confidence), and red (symbolising energy, passion &amp; aggression). The jersey is in a darker shade of blue, however, and graduates to lighter tones. In addition to the trademark tiger stripes across the jersey, red tiger claws on the sides makes the overall appeal extremely dynamic.

“The new jersey looks trendy, which is in sync with our team – a vibrant, young side ready to take on a challenge, and the tiger claws make a strong statement.” said Delhi Capitals Director &amp; Interim CEO Vinod Bisht, of the new jersey. “It was an invigorating experience for me to unveil the jersey with some of our diehard fans, who always bring such great emotional energy to the table. The high point of the event was the surprise video call from Shreyas and Shikhar. Such kind of direct engagement and access to players and management is something the fans really treasure. Going forward, it will be our endeavour to present more such opportunities to them.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumars-maiden-fifty-sets-up-indias-8-run-win-over-england-371525" hreflang="en">Suryakumar's maiden fifty sets up India's 8-run win over England</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
New season ➡️ New threads 💙 
 
Rate our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> jersey on a scale of 1️⃣ to ROAR 🔥 
 
Read more 👉🏻 <a href="https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6">https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NayiDilliKiNayiJersey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NayiDilliKiNayiJersey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShreyasIyer15?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShreyasIyer15</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDhawan25</a> <a href="https://t.co/idVCLl8Ivj">pic.twitter.com/idVCLl8Ivj</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1372801760218152962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This season, Delhi Capitals has joined hands with WROGN as its Official Lifestyle &amp; Merchandise Partner. Speaking of the association, Anjana Reddy, Founder &amp; CEO at USPL said, “The WROGN brand has always been synonymous with the words Young, Determined and Fierce - all qualities that Delhi Capitals, a team that has climbed up the IPL points table aggressively over the last two years, stands for. Today, DC is the right WROGN partner, and we are delighted to extend their on-field persona in the merchandise we are creating for the fans, who we know would love a piece of Delhi while cheering from their homes!”

JSW-GMR co-owned IPL franchise Delhi Capitals on Friday revealed the season’s official playing jersey in a unique ceremony in the presence of fans. The franchise, that believes in a ‘Fans First’ approach, handpicked some of its top fans and invited them over for a surprise to the Delhi Capitals office.

JSW-GMR co-owned IPL franchise Delhi Capitals on Friday revealed the season’s official playing jersey in a unique ceremony in the presence of fans. The franchise, that believes in a ‘Fans First’ approach, handpicked some of its top fans and invited them over for a surprise to the Delhi Capitals office. What followed was an unforgettable experience for the fans. After a heartfelt conversation with CEO Vinod Bisht about their favourite players and this season’s expectations, the fans witnessed the unveiling of the new jersey. These fans were the very first ones to see the new jersey, even before the players. Getting their hands on their very own customised DC jerseys left the fans elated, but the best was saved for the end. Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer and opener Shikhar Dhawan connected with them live over a video call, to catch a glimpse of the jersey and chat with the fans, making it a rare and precious experience. "Delhi’s fans have stood by the team through ups and downs, so it is imperative for us to make them feel special,” said Chairman and co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi, on the occasion. “To take the fan experience to a different level, we also organised a photoshoot for the select fans in the new jersey, just like we do for the players. We are glad to have given them a memorable experience. It’s also a very proud moment for all of us at GMR to see the group’s logo on the arm. We cannot wait for the league to kick off, I wish the team all the very best.” ALSO READ: India name Suryakumar Yadav, Prasidh Krishna for England ODIs - Check full squad 🚨 #NayiDilliKiNayiJersey 🚨 That's it. That's the caption 😉 Read more 👉🏻 https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/nG5PyvIjOF — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 19, 2021 × The new Delhi Capitals jersey will continue to be dominated by blue (representing stability and confidence), and red (symbolising energy, passion & aggression). The jersey is in a darker shade of blue, however, and graduates to lighter tones. In addition to the trademark tiger stripes across the jersey, red tiger claws on the sides makes the overall appeal extremely dynamic. “The new jersey looks trendy, which is in sync with our team – a vibrant, young side ready to take on a challenge, and the tiger claws make a strong statement.” said Delhi Capitals Director & Interim CEO Vinod Bisht, of the new jersey. “It was an invigorating experience for me to unveil the jersey with some of our diehard fans, who always bring such great emotional energy to the table. The high point of the event was the surprise video call from Shreyas and Shikhar. Such kind of direct engagement and access to players and management is something the fans really treasure. Going forward, it will be our endeavour to present more such opportunities to them.” ALSO READ: Suryakumar's maiden fifty sets up India's 8-run win over England New season ➡️ New threads 💙 Rate our #IPL2021 jersey on a scale of 1️⃣ to ROAR 🔥 Read more 👉🏻 https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6#NayiDilliKiNayiJersey #YehHaiNayiDilli @RishabhPant17 @ShreyasIyer15 @SDhawan25 pic.twitter.com/idVCLl8Ivj — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 19, 2021 × This season, Delhi Capitals has joined hands with WROGN as its Official Lifestyle & Merchandise Partner. Speaking of the association, Anjana Reddy, Founder & CEO at USPL said, “The WROGN brand has always been synonymous with the words Young, Determined and Fierce - all qualities that Delhi Capitals, a team that has climbed up the IPL points table aggressively over the last two years, stands for. Today, DC is the right WROGN partner, and we are delighted to extend their on-field persona in the merchandise we are creating for the fans, who we know would love a piece of Delhi while cheering from their homes!”

Ahead of IPL 2021, Delhi Capitals launch new jersey

Wicketkeeper-batsman Vishnu Vinod and left-arm medium-fast bowler Lukman Meriwala are eager to show their mettle under Captain Shreyas Iyer and Coach Ricky Ponting in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The talented domestic players were picked up by the Delhi Capitals at their base price of Rs 20 lakh in the IPL Auction on 18 February 2021.

Vishnu Vinod, who plays for Kerala in domestic cricket, has scored 906 runs, taken 10 catches and effected 5 stumpings in 35 matches in his T20 career. Meanwhile, Lukman Meriwala has picked up 72 wickets in 44 matches at an average of 14.54 in T20s. The 29-year-old, who plays for Baroda in domestic cricket, finished as the second-highest wicket-taker in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 with 15 scalps.

Vishnu Vinod expressed that he is looking forward to playing alongside Australian superstar Steve Smith in the upcoming IPL, "I am excited to play in a team of youngsters who were last year’s finalists. It will be exciting to play alongside Steve Smith and to be coached by Ricky Ponting. I am also looking forward to play under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy as well."

The 27-year-old, who played three matches for RCB in IPL 2017, spoke about his experience of sharing the dressing room with AB de Villiers, " I look up to AB de Villiers. I was in awe of AB when I saw him and got to be with him in person. I was too shy to even talk to him. During a team meeting, he once told me 'I will be watching you'. He told me to practice breathing while batting to help me attain clarity while thinking and playing. I have been practising that ever since he told me."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a>

Meanwhile, Lukman Meriwala is looking forward to spending time with Delhi Capitals' speedsters Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and Kagiso Rabada. "I am really happy to join the Delhi Capitals. My family and the people in my village are also very happy. I am looking forward to speaking with Ishant (Sharma) bhai, Umesh (Yadav) bhai and Kagiso Rabada in the camp. Whenever I make a mistake, I will speak to them and work on my mistakes."

After a fantastic performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021, the fast bowler expected to be picked by an IPL team in the auction. However, it was still a surreal feeling for the 29-year-old when he heard that he had been acquired by an IPL team for the first time in his life.

"When the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 was held, I didn't think about anything else and focussed on only that tournament. After doing well there, I expected to be picked by an IPL team this year. When the auction was going on, I was practising in the nets in Surat. The Vijay Hazare Trophy was going on that time. Our team's (Baroda) video analyst came to the nets and told me that I have been picked by Delhi Capitals. I stopped bowling immediately and was so happy to hear the news. Our nets session was also paused for five minutes as all the players in my team congratulated me," said Meriwala.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-i-first-arrived-at-chennai-csks-lungi-ngidi-reveals-how-ms-dhoni-gave-him-goosebumps-370702" hreflang="en">'When I first arrived at Chennai...': CSK's Lungi Ngidi reveals how MS Dhoni gave him 'goosebumps'</a>

The fast bowler has had to endure a long and hard journey until he achieved his IPL dream. Meriwala had given up on cricket at one point, but with his father's support, he has worked his way up the levels of professional cricket.

"I started playing cricket in 2003, but I was playing only club cricket then and I couldn't find a way to move forward. So, I lost hope and gave up cricket, and started working as a welder in 2007. After around two years, my father told me that he would support my career no matter what. Then I played a U-19 tournament for Baroda. After which, I kept working hard and kept moving up the ranks. After returning to cricket in 2009, I made my Ranji Trophy debut in 2017," said the 29-year-old.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Vishnu Vinod and left-arm medium-fast bowler Lukman Meriwala are eager to show their mettle under Captain Shreyas Iyer and Coach Ricky Ponting in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Vishnu Vinod and left-arm medium-fast bowler Lukman Meriwala are eager to show their mettle under Captain Shreyas Iyer and Coach Ricky Ponting in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The talented domestic players were picked up by the Delhi Capitals at their base price of Rs 20 lakh in the IPL Auction on 18 February 2021. Vishnu Vinod, who plays for Kerala in domestic cricket, has scored 906 runs, taken 10 catches and effected 5 stumpings in 35 matches in his T20 career. Meanwhile, Lukman Meriwala has picked up 72 wickets in 44 matches at an average of 14.54 in T20s. The 29-year-old, who plays for Baroda in domestic cricket, finished as the second-highest wicket-taker in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 with 15 scalps. Vishnu Vinod expressed that he is looking forward to playing alongside Australian superstar Steve Smith in the upcoming IPL, "I am excited to play in a team of youngsters who were last year’s finalists. It will be exciting to play alongside Steve Smith and to be coached by Ricky Ponting. I am also looking forward to play under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy as well." The 27-year-old, who played three matches for RCB in IPL 2017, spoke about his experience of sharing the dressing room with AB de Villiers, " I look up to AB de Villiers. I was in awe of AB when I saw him and got to be with him in person. I was too shy to even talk to him. During a team meeting, he once told me 'I will be watching you'. He told me to practice breathing while batting to help me attain clarity while thinking and playing. I have been practising that ever since he told me." ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom Meanwhile, Lukman Meriwala is looking forward to spending time with Delhi Capitals' speedsters Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and Kagiso Rabada. "I am really happy to join the Delhi Capitals. My family and the people in my village are also very happy. I am looking forward to speaking with Ishant (Sharma) bhai, Umesh (Yadav) bhai and Kagiso Rabada in the camp. Whenever I make a mistake, I will speak to them and work on my mistakes." After a fantastic performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021, the fast bowler expected to be picked by an IPL team in the auction. However, it was still a surreal feeling for the 29-year-old when he heard that he had been acquired by an IPL team for the first time in his life. "When the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 was held, I didn't think about anything else and focussed on only that tournament. After doing well there, I expected to be picked by an IPL team this year. When the auction was going on, I was practising in the nets in Surat. The Vijay Hazare Trophy was going on that time. Our team's (Baroda) video analyst came to the nets and told me that I have been picked by Delhi Capitals. I stopped bowling immediately and was so happy to hear the news. Our nets session was also paused for five minutes as all the players in my team congratulated me," said Meriwala. ALSO READ: 'When I first arrived at Chennai...': CSK's Lungi Ngidi reveals how MS Dhoni gave him 'goosebumps' The fast bowler has had to endure a long and hard journey until he achieved his IPL dream. Meriwala had given up on cricket at one point, but with his father's support, he has worked his way up the levels of professional cricket. "I started playing cricket in 2003, but I was playing only club cricket then and I couldn't find a way to move forward. So, I lost hope and gave up cricket, and started working as a welder in 2007. After around two years, my father told me that he would support my career no matter what. Then I played a U-19 tournament for Baroda. After which, I kept working hard and kept moving up the ranks. After returning to cricket in 2009, I made my Ranji Trophy debut in 2017," said the 29-year-old.

IPL 2021: Vishnu Vinod, Lukman Meriwala share their excitement about joining Delhi Capitals

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has lost 3.6 per cent of its brand value to INR 45,800 crore in the year 2020. In 2019, the IPL had a brand value of INR 47,500 crore with a growth of seven per cent over the previous season.&nbsp;

According to a Duff &amp; Phelps brand valuation report released on Wednesday, Mumbai Indians has retained the top spot in brand rankings for the fifth season on the trot with a brand valuation of INR 761 crore&nbsp;but is down by 5.9 per cent from the year 2019.&nbsp;

Chennai Super&nbsp;Kings&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kolkata Knight Riders have witnessed their brand value hit by 16.5 per cent and 13.7 per cent respectively from the year 2019. CSK's brand value dropped to INR 611 crore from INR 731 crore whereas KKR slipped to INR 543 crore from INR 629&nbsp;crore, the report said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Duff &amp; Phelps said that the year 2020 hit by the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging for every sector and has affected the sports economy after disrupting the sporting calendar. Almost every major&nbsp;tournament&nbsp;was&nbsp;either cancelled or postponed in the year 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-has-more-talent-cant-compare-with-indian-players-opines-abdul-razzaq-369391" hreflang="en">'Pakistan has more talent, can't compare with Indian players,' opines Abdul Razzaq</a>

The IPL franchises saw a decline in their brand value from 2019 due to sponsorship revenue, gate receipts and reduced food and beverage revenue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Similar to the impact on other businesses and the overall economy, the pandemic has led to a decline in the IPL ecosystem value. However, with people forced to spend time at home, there was an increase in IPL television viewership making the 2020 edition a huge success for broadcasters as&nbsp;it&nbsp;broke viewership and advertising revenue records.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Television ratings skyrocketed and advertisers tapped into this opportunity to scale up their brand image. Despite the challenging year, this momentum is indicative of how strong the IPL brand has become,” said Santosh N of Duff &amp; Phelps India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-venues-could-host-icc-t20-world-cup-matches-report-369147" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report</a>

"With the economy opening and virus infections decreasing, sponsorship deals are expected to be back to the pre-pandemic levels. Also, an increase in the number of teams in 2022 and the renewal of media rights in 2023 will enhance the IPL ecosystem value in the future,"&nbsp;Santosh added.&nbsp;

“The IPL reflects the evolution of the modern cricket business, with clubs benefitting not only from the sport’s enduring popularity but also from the game going global and from some great marketing initiatives. All teams need to continue broadening their footprint, forming relationships and generating revenue opportunities in growth markets,"&nbsp;said Varun Gupta of Duff &amp; Phelps.&nbsp;

In 2020, the IPL witnessed lower sponsorship revenue as compared to 2019. While Dream11 paid INR 222 crore for the season as compared to VIVO's deal of INR 440 crore a season for IPL title sponsorship.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has lost 3.6 per cent of its brand value to INR 45,800 crore in the year 2020. In 2019, the IPL had a brand value of INR 47,500 crore with a growth of seven per cent over the previous season.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has lost 3.6 per cent of its brand value to INR 45,800 crore in the year 2020. In 2019, the IPL had a brand value of INR 47,500 crore with a growth of seven per cent over the previous season. According to a Duff & Phelps brand valuation report released on Wednesday, Mumbai Indians has retained the top spot in brand rankings for the fifth season on the trot with a brand valuation of INR 761 crore but is down by 5.9 per cent from the year 2019. Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders have witnessed their brand value hit by 16.5 per cent and 13.7 per cent respectively from the year 2019. CSK's brand value dropped to INR 611 crore from INR 731 crore whereas KKR slipped to INR 543 crore from INR 629 crore, the report said. Duff & Phelps said that the year 2020 hit by the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging for every sector and has affected the sports economy after disrupting the sporting calendar. Almost every major tournament was either cancelled or postponed in the year 2020. ALSO READ: 'Pakistan has more talent, can't compare with Indian players,' opines Abdul Razzaq The IPL franchises saw a decline in their brand value from 2019 due to sponsorship revenue, gate receipts and reduced food and beverage revenue. “Similar to the impact on other businesses and the overall economy, the pandemic has led to a decline in the IPL ecosystem value. However, with people forced to spend time at home, there was an increase in IPL television viewership making the 2020 edition a huge success for broadcasters as it broke viewership and advertising revenue records. “Television ratings skyrocketed and advertisers tapped into this opportunity to scale up their brand image. Despite the challenging year, this momentum is indicative of how strong the IPL brand has become,” said Santosh N of Duff & Phelps India. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report "With the economy opening and virus infections decreasing, sponsorship deals are expected to be back to the pre-pandemic levels. Also, an increase in the number of teams in 2022 and the renewal of media rights in 2023 will enhance the IPL ecosystem value in the future," Santosh added. “The IPL reflects the evolution of the modern cricket business, with clubs benefitting not only from the sport’s enduring popularity but also from the game going global and from some great marketing initiatives. All teams need to continue broadening their footprint, forming relationships and generating revenue opportunities in growth markets," said Varun Gupta of Duff & Phelps. In 2020, the IPL witnessed lower sponsorship revenue as compared to 2019. While Dream11 paid INR 222 crore for the season as compared to VIVO's deal of INR 440 crore a season for IPL title sponsorship.

IPL brand value down by 3.6% to INR 45,800 crore due to COVID-19 pandemic: Report

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets&nbsp;during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals. Billings spent two seasons with the Delhi franchise before being signed up by Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;

During the auction of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Billings was roped in by Delhi Capitals for his base price of INR 2 crore.&nbsp;Ahead of IPL 2021, the England international recalled when he spotted Pant at the nets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Billings said after watching Pant smacking the likes of Kagiso&nbsp;Rabada, Chris Morris and Nathan Coulter-Nile at the nets, he turned straight to Rahul Dravid, who was the mentor of the franchise at that time,&nbsp;to ask about the youngster while terming the southpaw as "unbelievable”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

“With Pant, I played with him for 2 years when I was in Delhi. I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked 'who is this kid?' He was smacking Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Morris,&nbsp;Rabada&nbsp;everywhere in the open net. I was just thinking 'this is unbelievable!' and that year he lit up,” Billings told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Billings will be back with Delhi Capitals and the&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;is looking forward to playing with Pant again.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It's been great to see him evolve as a cricketer and to be in the same team as him again would be great,”&nbsp;Billings said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-venues-could-host-icc-t20-world-cup-matches-report-369147" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report</a>

Meanwhile, Pant has seen a massive turnaround in his career. After warming the Team India bench for around a year, across formats, and finding him down in the pecking order, the swashbuckling southpaw&nbsp;played match-winning knocks against Australia and England.&nbsp;

While India defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series, the Virat Kohli-led side hammered England 3-1 in the home series to top the ICC World Test Championship standings.&nbsp;

India will lock horns with New Zealand in the final of ICC WTC, scheduled to be played from June 18-22 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals.

England wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has recalled the first time he saw Rishabh Pant in the nets during his time with Delhi Daredevils – now Delhi Capitals. Billings spent two seasons with the Delhi franchise before being signed up by Chennai Super Kings. During the auction of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Billings was roped in by Delhi Capitals for his base price of INR 2 crore. Ahead of IPL 2021, the England international recalled when he spotted Pant at the nets. Billings said after watching Pant smacking the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Chris Morris and Nathan Coulter-Nile at the nets, he turned straight to Rahul Dravid, who was the mentor of the franchise at that time, to ask about the youngster while terming the southpaw as "unbelievable”. IN PICS | IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. “With Pant, I played with him for 2 years when I was in Delhi. I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked 'who is this kid?' He was smacking Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Morris, Rabada everywhere in the open net. I was just thinking 'this is unbelievable!' and that year he lit up,” Billings told ESPNCricinfo. Billings will be back with Delhi Capitals and the glovesman is looking forward to playing with Pant again. “It's been great to see him evolve as a cricketer and to be in the same team as him again would be great,” Billings said. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Meanwhile, Pant has seen a massive turnaround in his career. After warming the Team India bench for around a year, across formats, and finding him down in the pecking order, the swashbuckling southpaw played match-winning knocks against Australia and England. While India defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series, the Virat Kohli-led side hammered England 3-1 in the home series to top the ICC World Test Championship standings. India will lock horns with New Zealand in the final of ICC WTC, scheduled to be played from June 18-22 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time