Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, Jay Shah has announced monetary compensation to groundsmen and curators at all Indian Premier League (IPL) venues for their consistent hard work throughout the two-month-long tournament.

Shah took to social media to make the announcement, a day after the IPL final where Kolkata Knight Riders emerged victorious for the third time, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in a one-sided contest.&nbsp;

"The unsung heroes of our successful T20 season are the incredible ground staff who worked tirelessly to provide brilliant pitches, even in difficult weather conditions," said Shah.&nbsp;

"As a token of our appreciation, the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive INR 25 lakhs ($30,000) each, and the same at the 3 additional venues will get INR 10 lakhs ($12,000) each. Thank you for your dedication and hard work!" he added.

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The unsung heroes of our successful T20 season are the incredible ground staff who worked tirelessly to provide brilliant pitches, even in difficult weather conditions. As a token of our appreciation, the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive INR 25…
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1794961768453906867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In the annals of the history books, IPL 2024 will be regarded as the season when cricket as a sport witnessed a paradigm shift. Scoring records tumbled at nearly every venue as teams belted scores above 200 on a scale previously unseen.&nbsp;

SRH scored the highest team score in the 17-year history of IPL by smashing 287 for 3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). In reply, RCB smashed 262 and lost the match by only 25 runs.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-andre-russell-in-tears-after-kkr-title-triumph-talks-about-mental-health-struggle-725688">Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: Andre Russell in tears after KKR title triumph, opens up about mental health struggles</a>

A total of 1260 sixes were hit in the tournament - the most in a single season. The 'Impact player sub' rule proved to be the game-changer in its second year of implementation as teams used their ferocious pinch hitters to increase the scoring rate.&nbsp;

Despite the number of matches increasing to 74, the pitches remained consistent and true across the country, allowing for the spectacle to continue without any problem.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Notably, Shah previously earned plaudits in 2022 when he introduced equal pay for men's and women 's cricketers, ensuring pay parity, which the ICC later followed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

List of all the IPL venues

<ol>
	<li>Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Wankhee Stadium, Mumbai 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>M.A. Chidambaram Chepauk Stadium, Chennai 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Eden Garden, Kolkata 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>&nbsp;Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Dr. Y.S. Rajashekar Reddy ACA-VDCA International Cricket, Vizag</li>
</ol>

(With inputs from agencies)

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, Jay Shah has announced monetary compensation to groundsmen and curators at all Indian Premier League (IPL) venues for their consistent hard work throughout the two-month-long tournament.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, Jay Shah has announced monetary compensation to groundsmen and curators at all Indian Premier League (IPL) venues for their consistent hard work throughout the two-month-long tournament. Shah took to social media to make the announcement, a day after the IPL final where Kolkata Knight Riders emerged victorious for the third time, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in a one-sided contest. "The unsung heroes of our successful T20 season are the incredible ground staff who worked tirelessly to provide brilliant pitches, even in difficult weather conditions," said Shah. "As a token of our appreciation, the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive INR 25 lakhs ($30,000) each, and the same at the 3 additional venues will get INR 10 lakhs ($12,000) each. Thank you for your dedication and hard work!" he added. The unsung heroes of our successful T20 season are the incredible ground staff who worked tirelessly to provide brilliant pitches, even in difficult weather conditions. As a token of our appreciation, the groundsmen and curators at the 10 regular IPL venues will receive INR 25… — Jay Shah (@JayShah) May 27, 2024 × In the annals of the history books, IPL 2024 will be regarded as the season when cricket as a sport witnessed a paradigm shift. Scoring records tumbled at nearly every venue as teams belted scores above 200 on a scale previously unseen. SRH scored the highest team score in the 17-year history of IPL by smashing 287 for 3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). In reply, RCB smashed 262 and lost the match by only 25 runs. Also read | IPL 2024: Andre Russell in tears after KKR title triumph, opens up about mental health struggles A total of 1260 sixes were hit in the tournament - the most in a single season. The 'Impact player sub' rule proved to be the game-changer in its second year of implementation as teams used their ferocious pinch hitters to increase the scoring rate. Despite the number of matches increasing to 74, the pitches remained consistent and true across the country, allowing for the spectacle to continue without any problem. Notably, Shah previously earned plaudits in 2022 when he introduced equal pay for men's and women 's cricketers, ensuring pay parity, which the ICC later followed. List of all the IPL venues Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi Wankhee Stadium, Mumbai Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad M.A. Chidambaram Chepauk Stadium, Chennai Eden Garden, Kolkata Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur Dr. Y.S. Rajashekar Reddy ACA-VDCA International Cricket, Vizag (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: Lucrative monetary benefit announced for groundsmen and curators by BCCI

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) annihilated SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) by eight wickets to secure their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (May 26). Led brilliantly by Shreyas Iyer, SRH were never allowed to be in the contest and eventually suffered one of the most humiliating defeats in IPL final history.&nbsp;

While KKR fans were ecstatic, the neutrals were left disappointed as the final turned out to be a drab affair. Some called it the most boring IPL final, while others were happy that Pat Cummins had finally lost a final.

KKR fans thanked Gautam Gambhir for returning to the team and helping instil the champion's mentality once again.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Check the reactions:&nbsp;

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This guy prayed for times like this 😭<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PatCummins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PatCummins</a> <a href="https://t.co/DYUg3i1tsI">pic.twitter.com/DYUg3i1tsI</a>
— Div🦁 (@div_yumm) <a href="https://twitter.com/div_yumm/status/1794760524238037173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Gautam Gambhir in IPL 🧠 <a href="https://t.co/Rktxan4bYH">pic.twitter.com/Rktxan4bYH</a>
— Tackle From Behind (@tacklefromb) <a href="https://twitter.com/tacklefromb/status/1794763508590186943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After the final today, everyone who is being interviewed about KKR, no one is forgetting to mention the name of Gautam Gambhir!✨ 
 
2012 KKR Champion Captain 
2014 KKR Champion Captain 
2024 KKR Champion Mentor 
 
He is indeed a lucky charm for KKR! ⭐ 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://t.co/IRgFQFMVEp">pic.twitter.com/IRgFQFMVEp</a>
— Raisul Rifat (@raisul_rifat88) <a href="https://twitter.com/raisul_rifat88/status/1794784853713699209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After the final today, everyone who is being interviewed about KKR, no one is forgetting to mention the name of Gautam Gambhir!✨ 
 
2012 KKR Champion Captain 
2014 KKR Champion Captain 
2024 KKR Champion Mentor 
 
He is indeed a lucky charm for KKR! ⭐ 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://t.co/IRgFQFMVEp">pic.twitter.com/IRgFQFMVEp</a>
— Raisul Rifat (@raisul_rifat88) <a href="https://twitter.com/raisul_rifat88/status/1794784853713699209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Pat Cummins finally lost something!!
— Mehul Bhargava (@mehulbhargava_) <a href="https://twitter.com/mehulbhargava_/status/1794777734260117890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-mitchell-starc-venkatesh-iyer-star-as-kkr-beat-srh-to-win-third-title-725670">Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: Mitchell Starc, Venkatesh Iyer star as KKR beat SRH to win third title</a>

&nbsp;

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When you silence the silencer <a href="https://t.co/OkECVUH6fH">pic.twitter.com/OkECVUH6fH</a>
— Sagar (@sagarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarcasm/status/1794771997999993211?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Our boys from Chepauk are shining, and everyone is loving the KKR match! Pure excitement all around!<a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamsrk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShahRukhKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShahRukhKhan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRKRoyals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRKRoyals</a> <a href="https://t.co/cYpiZYZydA">pic.twitter.com/cYpiZYZydA</a>
— SHAH RUKH KHAN FANS ASSOCIATION (@Srk_bangalore) <a href="https://twitter.com/Srk_bangalore/status/1794771534525104586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Scenes right now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvsSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvsSRH</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLFinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLFinal</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/x0mt8AEKm4">pic.twitter.com/x0mt8AEKm4</a>
— Rajabets 🇮🇳👑 (@smileagainraja) <a href="https://twitter.com/smileagainraja/status/1794766216516776436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Fans also lauded Shreyas Iyer for his captaincy which brought together the disjointed team and took it all the way over the line.&nbsp;

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This was his second game as captain of a team that was so poorly constructed. Made a fist of a very mediocre total that day quite brilliantly. Shreyas Iyer has always led well and stuck to most basics right. And he will be an IPL-winning skipper with KKR today <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/P0yBeRsyne">https://t.co/P0yBeRsyne</a>
— Soorya Sesha (@sooryasesha7) <a href="https://twitter.com/sooryasesha7/status/1794770965895020630?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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SRH won the toss in Chennai and skipper Cummins chose to bat first. It all went downhill for SRH from that point as Mitchell Starc dismissed Abhishek Sharma with a ripper in the first over itself.

The slide didn't stop there as Rahul Tripathi departed in the powerplay as well with the scoreboard reading 40/3 at the end of six overs.&nbsp;

Heinrich Klaasen did attempt to resurrect the SRH ship but Harshit Rana got the better of him. Cummins smashed a few at the death after getting a reprieve but could only push his team to 113 which turned out to be the lowest total in an IPL final.&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) annihilated SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) by eight wickets to secure their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (May 26).

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) annihilated SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) by eight wickets to secure their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (May 26). Led brilliantly by Shreyas Iyer, SRH were never allowed to be in the contest and eventually suffered one of the most humiliating defeats in IPL final history. While KKR fans were ecstatic, the neutrals were left disappointed as the final turned out to be a drab affair. Some called it the most boring IPL final, while others were happy that Pat Cummins had finally lost a final. KKR fans thanked Gautam Gambhir for returning to the team and helping instil the champion's mentality once again. Check the reactions: This guy prayed for times like this 😭#PatCummins pic.twitter.com/DYUg3i1tsI — Div🦁 (@div_yumm) May 26, 2024 × Gautam Gambhir in IPL 🧠 pic.twitter.com/Rktxan4bYH — Tackle From Behind (@tacklefromb) May 26, 2024 × After the final today, everyone who is being interviewed about KKR, no one is forgetting to mention the name of Gautam Gambhir!✨ 2012 KKR Champion Captain 2014 KKR Champion Captain 2024 KKR Champion Mentor He is indeed a lucky charm for KKR! ⭐ #IPL2024 #KKR pic.twitter.com/IRgFQFMVEp — Raisul Rifat (@raisul_rifat88) May 26, 2024 × After the final today, everyone who is being interviewed about KKR, no one is forgetting to mention the name of Gautam Gambhir!✨ 2012 KKR Champion Captain 2014 KKR Champion Captain 2024 KKR Champion Mentor He is indeed a lucky charm for KKR! ⭐ #IPL2024 #KKR pic.twitter.com/IRgFQFMVEp — Raisul Rifat (@raisul_rifat88) May 26, 2024 × Pat Cummins finally lost something!! — Mehul Bhargava (@mehulbhargava_) May 26, 2024 × Also read | IPL 2024: Mitchell Starc, Venkatesh Iyer star as KKR beat SRH to win third title When you silence the silencer pic.twitter.com/OkECVUH6fH — Sagar (@sagarcasm) May 26, 2024 × Our boys from Chepauk are shining, and everyone is loving the KKR match! Pure excitement all around!@iamsrk @KKRiders #KKRvSRH #AmiKKR #ShahRukhKhan #SRKRoyals pic.twitter.com/cYpiZYZydA — SHAH RUKH KHAN FANS ASSOCIATION (@Srk_bangalore) May 26, 2024 × Scenes right now. #KKRvsSRH | #IPLFinal | #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/x0mt8AEKm4 — Rajabets 🇮🇳👑 (@smileagainraja) May 26, 2024 × Fans also lauded Shreyas Iyer for his captaincy which brought together the disjointed team and took it all the way over the line. This was his second game as captain of a team that was so poorly constructed. Made a fist of a very mediocre total that day quite brilliantly. Shreyas Iyer has always led well and stuck to most basics right. And he will be an IPL-winning skipper with KKR today #KKRvSRH #IPL2024 https://t.co/P0yBeRsyne — Soorya Sesha (@sooryasesha7) May 26, 2024 × SRH won the toss in Chennai and skipper Cummins chose to bat first. It all went downhill for SRH from that point as Mitchell Starc dismissed Abhishek Sharma with a ripper in the first over itself. The slide didn't stop there as Rahul Tripathi departed in the powerplay as well with the scoreboard reading 40/3 at the end of six overs. Heinrich Klaasen did attempt to resurrect the SRH ship but Harshit Rana got the better of him. Cummins smashed a few at the death after getting a reprieve but could only push his team to 113 which turned out to be the lowest total in an IPL final.

IPL 2024: ‘Pat Cummins lost one finally’ - Fans react as KKR annihilate SRH in IPL final

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain Pat Cummins opted to bat first after winning the toss in the Indian Premier League (IPL) final against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The decision, though, backfired in the powerplay overs as SRH lost three wickets, including the dangerous opening duo of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head.&nbsp;

During the toss, Cummins reasoned that batting first on the deck with no dew in the second half may favour his side.&nbsp;

"We will bat first. Looks like a good wicket. Never the best at reading wickets. Played at a different one in the last, this looks different. There was no dew the other night so hopefully it's the same tonight," Cummins told presenter Ravi Shastri.&nbsp;

"Fingers crossed that today is one of those nights. Yeah we will give it a crack. Look it's a different wicket. We defended a score there, good to be back here. I mean it's different soil," he added.&nbsp;

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🚨 Toss Update 🚨 
 
Sunrisers Hyderabad 🧡 elect to bat in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> against Kolkata Knight Riders 💜 
 
Follow the Match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/lCK6AJCdH9">https://t.co/lCK6AJCdH9</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheFinalCall?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalCall</a> <a href="https://t.co/f4PWxfLFEK">pic.twitter.com/f4PWxfLFEK</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1794723854134526431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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However, his KKR counterpart, Shreyas Iyer had a different reading of the pitch, due to its red-soil composition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We would have bowled. Obviously, you have a fair idea on how the wicket will play. It's a red soil and we played our last game on a similar surface. We chased in first qualifier so backing that," said Iyer.&nbsp;

"We need to stay with the present, stick to the basics and execute all our plans. Every individual is taking responsibility, this is a big game, we've plenty of people who're playing in a final for the first time, nervous, but this is also a good chance. We're going with the same team."

As it turned out, KKR read the conditions perfectly well as Mitchell Starc rose to the big occasion yet again and castled Sharma with a ripper of a delivery.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-final-watch-kkrs-mitchell-starc-bowls-ripper-to-clean-bowled-srhs-abhishek-sharma-in-first-over-725631">IPL 2024 Final: WATCH | KKR's Mitchell Starc bowls RIPPER to clean bowled SRH's Abhishek Sharma in first over</a>

The Australian's new-ball partner, Vaibhav Arora was the next to strike as he got Head to poke at an outside off delivery. Rahul Tripathi didn't last long either and skied one straight up in the air which was snaffled up with utmost ease by Ramandeep Singh.&nbsp;

After the end of the fielding restrictions, Iyer brought Harshit Rana into the attack and the medium pacer struck in the first over, sending all-rounder Nitish Reddy back to the pavilion with a beautiful outswinger.&nbsp;

Playing XI's:&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders (Playing XI): Rahmanullah Gurbaz(w), Sunil Narine, Venkatesh Iyer, Shreyas Iyer(c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Mitchell Starc, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy

Sunrisers Hyderabad (Playing XI): Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Rahul Tripathi, Aiden Markram, Nitish Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins(c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, T Natarajan

(More to follow)

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain Pat Cummins opted to bat first after winning the toss in the Indian Premier League (IPL) final against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain Pat Cummins opted to bat first after winning the toss in the Indian Premier League (IPL) final against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The decision, though, backfired in the powerplay overs as SRH lost three wickets, including the dangerous opening duo of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. During the toss, Cummins reasoned that batting first on the deck with no dew in the second half may favour his side. "We will bat first. Looks like a good wicket. Never the best at reading wickets. Played at a different one in the last, this looks different. There was no dew the other night so hopefully it's the same tonight," Cummins told presenter Ravi Shastri. "Fingers crossed that today is one of those nights. Yeah we will give it a crack. Look it's a different wicket. We defended a score there, good to be back here. I mean it's different soil," he added. 🚨 Toss Update 🚨 Sunrisers Hyderabad 🧡 elect to bat in the #Final against Kolkata Knight Riders 💜 Follow the Match ▶️ https://t.co/lCK6AJCdH9#TATAIPL | #KKRvSRH | #TheFinalCall pic.twitter.com/f4PWxfLFEK — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 26, 2024 × However, his KKR counterpart, Shreyas Iyer had a different reading of the pitch, due to its red-soil composition. "We would have bowled. Obviously, you have a fair idea on how the wicket will play. It's a red soil and we played our last game on a similar surface. We chased in first qualifier so backing that," said Iyer. "We need to stay with the present, stick to the basics and execute all our plans. Every individual is taking responsibility, this is a big game, we've plenty of people who're playing in a final for the first time, nervous, but this is also a good chance. We're going with the same team." As it turned out, KKR read the conditions perfectly well as Mitchell Starc rose to the big occasion yet again and castled Sharma with a ripper of a delivery. IPL 2024 Final: WATCH | KKR's Mitchell Starc bowls RIPPER to clean bowled SRH's Abhishek Sharma in first over The Australian's new-ball partner, Vaibhav Arora was the next to strike as he got Head to poke at an outside off delivery. Rahul Tripathi didn't last long either and skied one straight up in the air which was snaffled up with utmost ease by Ramandeep Singh. After the end of the fielding restrictions, Iyer brought Harshit Rana into the attack and the medium pacer struck in the first over, sending all-rounder Nitish Reddy back to the pavilion with a beautiful outswinger. Playing XI's: Kolkata Knight Riders (Playing XI): Rahmanullah Gurbaz(w), Sunil Narine, Venkatesh Iyer, Shreyas Iyer(c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Mitchell Starc, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy Sunrisers Hyderabad (Playing XI): Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Rahul Tripathi, Aiden Markram, Nitish Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins(c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, T Natarajan (More to follow)

IPL 2024: Why did SRH captain Pat Cummins opt to bat first in the final?

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has come up with a radical idea to balance the game between bat and ball. Lee has suggested that akin to the way the batters get a free hit, the bowlers should get a 'free throw'.

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has come up with a radical idea to balance the game between bat and ball. Lee has suggested that akin to the way the batters get a free hit, the bowlers should get a 'free throw'. Lee was speaking at a press conference in New Delhi on Thursday (May 23) when he said the pitches needed to be bowler-friendly or innovations made to bridge the gap between both facets of the game. "I am all for sixes and batters getting out there and smoking balls all over the field. But there's gotta be something in it for the bowlers too," said Lee. "I'm not asking for a green top where, you know, teams bowled out for 100 and 110 because that's not good cricket, either. But you know you want a good total. I think anywhere around the 185 mark to 230 I think is a good score," he added. 'Free throw' Pressed further on how he would prevent the ultra-high scores that have been the norm at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Lee came up with the uncharacteristic idea. "I'm happy if we can do something like the free hit. The batsman gets a free hit right? So maybe if the batsman misses two balls in a row, the bowler gets to have a free throw at the stumps," Lee added. Also read | CSK's Tushar Deshpande mocks RCB, shares 'Bengaluru Cant' post after Eliminator defeat "We've seen scores now from 265 to 270 to 277. It's really hard because most bowlers now go for 45 to 50 runs off four overs. So do we accept that bowlers are now happy with 9 to 10 runs per over? Or are we happy to say that the wickets have been a little bit better for the batsman? So a bit more for the bowlers is a bit more of a competition, but I still love seeing six hits because it's entertaining," said the speedster. The introduction of the 'Impact Sub' rule from 2023 has increased the divide in the game with teams opting for specialised batters instead of picking all-rounders. SunRisers Hyderabad posted the highest team total of 287 this year, which was nearly chased by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) who raked up 262 in reply. In total, teams have crossed the 200-run mark on a staggering 41 instances whereas the 250-run mark has been breached on eight instances in the league round alone. (With inputs from agencies)

Brett Lee comes up with radical idea to balance game between bat and ball. 'Free throw' for bowlers

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pace bowler Tushar Deshpande did not leave the opportunity to get even with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after the latter crashed out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Wednesday (May 22) against Rajasthan Royals (RR).

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pace bowler Tushar Deshpande did not leave the opportunity to get even with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after the latter crashed out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Wednesday (May 22) against Rajasthan Royals (RR). Deshpande shared an Instagram story mocking the Bengaluru side but later deleted it due to public backlash. Deshpande, who finished the season with 17 wickets, shared a post by a CSK fan page which had an image of the Bengaluru Cant. Railway Station with the caption, “Nothing just a railway station in Bengaluru!”. The CSK seamer further wrote, “CSK fans are built different” while tagging the account. Deshpande was clapping back as RCB players had celebrated wildly after defeating CSK in the final league match of the tournament to qualify for the Eliminator. The defeat meant that CSK could not qualify for the playoffs for only the third time in tournament's 17-year history. However, RCB was criticised post the match as MS Dhoni walked off the pitch without shaking hands with the Bengaluru players who were oblivious and busy celebrating the win. Videos on social media showed Dhoni waiting for the RCB players to come around and do the obligatory handshake. However, after no one approached him, Dhoni made his way to the dressing room, prompting Virat Kohli to follow him inside and have a chat with the veteran star. Also read | 'Don't think you'll win...': Ex-CSK batter Ambati Rayudu claps back at RCB for aggressive celebrations Rayudu takes a dig Apart from Deshpande, former CSK batter Ambati Rayudu also hit back at RCB after the loss, stating that defeating the record-time champions was not a guarantee for an IPL trophy. "If you talk about RCB today, it shows that only passion and aggressive celebrations don't win you trophies. You need to plan. You didn't get the IPL trophy just by reaching the playoffs. You have to play with the same hunger," said Rayudu. "Don't think you will win the IPL trophy just by beating CSK. You will have to come next year once again," he added. Chasing the modest target of 173 set by RCB, RR qualified for the next knockout match against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) after Riyan Parag (36) and Shimron Hetmyer (26) stitched a 45-run partnership in the middle to keep RCB at bay. (With inputs from agencies)

CSK's Tushar Deshpande mocks RCB, shares 'Bengaluru Cant' post after Eliminator defeat

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter, AB de Villiers, is of the view that MS Dhoni should be leading Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as long as he is playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter, AB de Villiers, is of the view that MS Dhoni should be leading Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as long as he is playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni handed over the captaincy armband on the eve of the start of the tournaament to Gaikwad, much to the surprise of the fans. While CSK under Gaikwad started off sparklingly, the franchise could not deliver consistent results and eventually crashed out in the league stage after losing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the virtual knockout last week. "I will only give you an honest answer if you're going to report it in the right way yes so I wouldn't say I called it a mistake. What I meant by that was with MS Dhoni around, playing against MS for so many years, that is the most intimidating sight to have him as an opposing captain," said De Villiers on Jio Cinema. "They took away quite a bit of the intimidation factor from CSK with not having him as captain. It's got nothing to do with Gaikwad's captaincy. I actually think he's got a very bright future and he captained extremely well," he added. While it was Gaikwad's maiden captaincy assignment with CSK, it was only the third time in 17 years that the five-time champions had failed to advance to the knockouts. Also read | IPL 2024: ‘We have seen the last of MS...,’ Dhoni to retire? Here’s what former CSK batter says Dhoni's future uncertain Although most fans and pundits would love to have Dhoni back in the capatincy chair, it remains uncertain at this stage if the former Indian captain would be back, even as a player next season. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan recently said there had not been "any discussions" regarding Dhoni's future, and that the former CSK captain would inform them about his decision at the right time. “There were no discussions in the dressing room about it. We have never asked him about his future and neither has he said anything about it. When he takes a decision, he will inform us, until then we will not interfere," Viswanathan told The Indian Express newspaper. CSK have to make the tough call on players it wants to hold onto ahead of the mega auctions planned by the BCCI. Since Dhoni is a luxury squad player at this stage in his career, retaining him will be a high risk for the franchise. If BCCI changes the retention rules and increases the number of players a club can retain, it could possibly influence Dhoni's decision as to whether or not to come back to play for the cricket-loving Chennai crowd. (With inputs from agencies)

AB de Villiers bats for MS Dhoni as CSK captain over Ruturaj Gaikwad

England men's T20 cricket team captain Jos Buttler has said international cricket should not clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL), amid criticism coming his way that he left Rajasthan Royals (RR) when the franchise needed him during the playoffs.

Buttler defended the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) decision to pull him out of the franchise tournament, saying his priority remained his country.&nbsp;

“I said, ‘Look, as an England captain, my main priority is to be playing for England,'” Buttler told reporters on Tuesday.

“It’s my personal opinion that there shouldn’t be any international cricket that clashes with the IPL. I think that these games have been in the calendar for a long time. Of course, leading into a World Cup, your No. 1 priority is playing for England and performing for England. I feel like this is the best preparation,” he added.

While IPL 2024 playoffs began on May 21, the first of the four T20Is between England and Pakistan gets underway on May 22 in Leeds.

Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals), Phil Salt (Kolkata Knight Riders), Moeen Ali (Chennai Super Kings),&nbsp;Reece Topley (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) and Will Jacks (RCB) are among players who will be missing the playoffs for their respective franchises.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-calls-for-substantial-pay-cut-for-overseas-players-for-leaving-ipl-midway-720579">Also read |&nbsp;Sunil Gavaskar calls for ‘substantial’ pay cut for overseas players for leaving IPL midway</a>

<h2>'Shouldn't bother coming'</h2>

Buttler's statement came after former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram&nbsp;said that players should come for the entirety of the IPL or should not bother coming.&nbsp;

"If you cut salaries, will it affect anything if your team doesn't win after reaching the playoffs? You've put in all the hard work and in the last hurdle, your boys leave because they have to play for the country. It's not fair," said Akram.&nbsp;

"This is what you play for. That's why it's frustrating not just for fans but owners, and captains of the teams for any league. So, I agree with Irfan [Pathan], come for the entire tournament otherwise don't come," he added.

Previously, legendary Indian opener, Sunil Gavaskar, had called for a substantial pay cut for overseas players who cut short their IPL campaign for national duties or whatever reasons.&nbsp;

“I am all for players choosing country before anything else, but having assured various franchises about their availability for the full season, if they pull out now, it will be letting down the franchises which probably pay them more money in one IPL season, which they don’t earn in a few seasons with their country,” Gavaskar said.&nbsp;

The T20 World Cup takes place in the&nbsp;Caribbean and USA, starting June 1, with 20 teams in the fray.

Apart from England, players from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka also left IPL midway to join their respective national teams, leading to more outrage amongst the IPL fans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

England men's T20 cricket team captain Jos Buttler has said international cricket should not clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL), amid criticism coming his way that he left Rajasthan Royals (RR) when the franchise needed him during the playoffs.

England men's T20 cricket team captain Jos Buttler has said international cricket should not clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL), amid criticism coming his way that he left Rajasthan Royals (RR) when the franchise needed him during the playoffs. Buttler defended the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) decision to pull him out of the franchise tournament, saying his priority remained his country. “I said, ‘Look, as an England captain, my main priority is to be playing for England,'” Buttler told reporters on Tuesday. “It’s my personal opinion that there shouldn’t be any international cricket that clashes with the IPL. I think that these games have been in the calendar for a long time. Of course, leading into a World Cup, your No. 1 priority is playing for England and performing for England. I feel like this is the best preparation,” he added. While IPL 2024 playoffs began on May 21, the first of the four T20Is between England and Pakistan gets underway on May 22 in Leeds. Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals), Phil Salt (Kolkata Knight Riders), Moeen Ali (Chennai Super Kings), Reece Topley (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) and Will Jacks (RCB) are among players who will be missing the playoffs for their respective franchises. Also read | Sunil Gavaskar calls for ‘substantial’ pay cut for overseas players for leaving IPL midway 'Shouldn't bother coming' Buttler's statement came after former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram said that players should come for the entirety of the IPL or should not bother coming. "If you cut salaries, will it affect anything if your team doesn't win after reaching the playoffs? You've put in all the hard work and in the last hurdle, your boys leave because they have to play for the country. It's not fair," said Akram. "This is what you play for. That's why it's frustrating not just for fans but owners, and captains of the teams for any league. So, I agree with Irfan [Pathan], come for the entire tournament otherwise don't come," he added. Previously, legendary Indian opener, Sunil Gavaskar, had called for a substantial pay cut for overseas players who cut short their IPL campaign for national duties or whatever reasons. “I am all for players choosing country before anything else, but having assured various franchises about their availability for the full season, if they pull out now, it will be letting down the franchises which probably pay them more money in one IPL season, which they don’t earn in a few seasons with their country,” Gavaskar said. The T20 World Cup takes place in the Caribbean and USA, starting June 1, with 20 teams in the fray. Apart from England, players from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka also left IPL midway to join their respective national teams, leading to more outrage amongst the IPL fans. (With inputs from agencies)

'My main priority...': Jos Buttler issues clarification after leaving IPL midway for England

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) owner and Bollywood superstar, Shah Rukh Khan, was apologetic as he accidentally interrupted a live post-match cricket show as he was taking a victory lap with his kids, Suhana and AbRam at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) owner and Bollywood superstar, Shah Rukh Khan, was apologetic as he accidentally interrupted a live post-match cricket show as he was taking a victory lap with his kids, Suhana and AbRam at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. KKR cruised to the final after a convincing eight-wicket win over SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the first qualifier on Tuesday (May 21) of the Indian Premier League (IPL). As the team celebrated reaching its fourth final in IPL history, Shah Rukh and his family led the lap of honour. A viral video clip showed that Shah Rukh, during the victory lap, accidentally stumbled onto the live broadcast by the JioCinema Hindi commentators. Former cricketers Aakash Chopra, Parthiv Patel and Suresh Raina were conducting the show when Shahrukh arrived on the scene. While Suhana spotted the live shoot and moved his brother to the side, Shah Rukh walked right in, before apologising with folded hands for interrupting the proceedings. As the Bollywood star apologised, he made sure to hug all three of them and later apologised to the fans watching the broadcast before continuing the lap around the stadium. "Oh, what a man! Legend!" said Chopra after the happy accident. “He did not even realise that he walked into the show. He was very apologetic, but I said, 'You made our day. You are the showstopper.” "I spent a bit of time at KKR with him. I batted at No. 8 and also at No. 6 then. He was very supportive," he added. The former India opener also took to X to call Khan a legend. WATCH Shah Rukh's enderaing reaction to crashing the live show: SHAH RUKH KHAN... bas naam hi kaafi hai 🔥🔥💜💜💜 #KKRvsSRH pic.twitter.com/ZPipWNhFOF — Perfectly Imperfect 🤷🏻 (@abhicc225) May 21, 2024 × He’s an absolute legend. Lots of love and respect ✊ https://t.co/5AmR58xYW0 — Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) May 21, 2024 × Also read | IPL 2024: Bowlers, Venkatesh and Shreyas Iyer take KKR into final with dominating win over SRH KKR continue scintillating form Chasing a modest target of 160 in the qualifier, KKR hardly broke a sweat and won the match inside 14 overs as Venkatesh Iyer scored an unbeaten 28-ball 51 while skipper Shreyas Iyer hit 58 not out off 24 balls. However, the match was beautifully set up by the bowlers, especially Mitchell Starc who justified why the KKR board had splurged a record-breaking sum on him during the previous auction. Starc sent destructive opener Travis Head back to the pavilion on the second ball of the match for a duck. SRH's innings took a downturn from there as Head's opening partner Abhishek Sharma was sent back in the next over as well. SRH lost four wickets inside the powerplay and never really recovered from there despite useful contributions from Heinrich Klassen and skipper Pat Cummins down the order. SRH, however, still have a chance to make it to the final in the second qualifier where they face the winner of the eliminator game between the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: Watch | Shah Rukh Khan's endearing apology after crashing post-match live show

The reports of threat to Virat Kohli&nbsp;and RCB's cancelled practice ahead on the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals on May 22 have been called out the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA).&nbsp;

"There was no terror threat. We had made provision for both the Rajasthan Royals and RCB to practice at the Gujarat College ground. RCB were supposed to practice from 2 to 5pm, before they changed it to 3-6pm, as the light is good till 6.30pm in the summer in Ahmedabad. However, the Rajasthan Royals practiced from 3.30 to 6.30pm at the Gujarat College ground with their full squad," Anil Patel, secretary of GCA said.

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidtfYc9CqRUw1t" />Earlier, it was reported that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had to cancel their solitary practice session before the IPL&nbsp;Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals due to security reasons, a report has claimed. Concerns around star player Virat Kohli's security prompted the franchise to abandon its practice session as well as the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

According to a report in&nbsp;Anandabazaar Patrika, RCB abandoned the session after Gujarat Police arrested four people from Ahmedabad over suspicion of terrorist activity.&nbsp;

RCB were supposed to practice at the&nbsp;Gujarat&nbsp;College Ground ahead of the match scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;

After the police informed both the franchises about the arrests, the Bengaluru-based team acted on the call and cancelled all commitments of the day while Rajasthan went ahead with its schedule.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli learned about the arrests after arriving in Ahmedabad. He is a national treasure, and his security is our utmost priority," Vijay Singha Jwala, a police officer was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

"RCB did not want to take a risk. They informed us that there would be no practice session. Rajasthan Royals were also informed about the development, but they had no problems going ahead with their practice."

Subsequently, the security was beefed up outside RCB's team hotel with IPL-accredited membersalso&nbsp; not being allowed to enter the hotel premises.&nbsp;

As for the Royals, a 'green corridor' was prepared and three police convoys escorted the team bus. While skipper Sanju Samson arrived late, the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Riyan Parag and Yuzvendra Chahal skipped the practice session and remained at the hotel.&nbsp;

As the players went through their drills, heavy security patrolled the ground.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/will-you-come-back-ask-fans-as-fugitive-vijay-mallya-talks-about-virat-kohli-ahead-of-rcbs-knockout-match-724220" target="_blank">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;'Will you come back?' ask fans as fugitive Vijay Mallya talks about Virat Kohli ahead of RCB's knockout match</a>

<h2>RCB face&nbsp;RR&nbsp;challenge.&nbsp;</h2>

RCB managed to qualify for the playoffs after a remarkable turnaround in form which saw them win six matches on the bounce. In the virtual knockout that was the final league match,&nbsp;RCB staved off the Chennai Super Kings challenge to set up the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals.&nbsp;

The winner of the Eliminator will square up against SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai, with the winner qualifying for the final to face Kolkata Knight Riders.&nbsp;

Squads: 

Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Rovman Powell, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Sandeep Sharma, Avesh Khan, Nandre Burger, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Sen, Shubham Dubey, Keshav Maharaj, Donovan Ferreira, Navdeep Saini, Shimron Hetmyer, Tanush Kotian, Abid Mushtaq, Kunal Singh Rathore

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis(c), Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik(w), Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Yash Dayal, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, Swapnil Singh, Anuj Rawat, Suyash Prabhudessai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Himanshu Sharma, Mayank Dagar, Alzarri Joseph, Manoj Bhandage, Akash Deep, Saurav Chauhan, Rajan Kumar, Tom Curran

(With inputs from agencies)

The reports of threat to Virat Kohli and RCB's cancelled practice ahead on the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals on May 22 have been called out the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA).

The reports of threat to Virat Kohli and RCB's cancelled practice ahead on the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals on May 22 have been called out the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA). "There was no terror threat. We had made provision for both the Rajasthan Royals and RCB to practice at the Gujarat College ground. RCB were supposed to practice from 2 to 5pm, before they changed it to 3-6pm, as the light is good till 6.30pm in the summer in Ahmedabad. However, the Rajasthan Royals practiced from 3.30 to 6.30pm at the Gujarat College ground with their full squad," Anil Patel, secretary of GCA said. Earlier, it was reported that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had to cancel their solitary practice session before the IPL Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals due to security reasons, a report has claimed. Concerns around star player Virat Kohli's security prompted the franchise to abandon its practice session as well as the pre-match press conference. According to a report in Anandabazaar Patrika, RCB abandoned the session after Gujarat Police arrested four people from Ahmedabad over suspicion of terrorist activity. RCB were supposed to practice at the Gujarat College Ground ahead of the match scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium. After the police informed both the franchises about the arrests, the Bengaluru-based team acted on the call and cancelled all commitments of the day while Rajasthan went ahead with its schedule. "Virat Kohli learned about the arrests after arriving in Ahmedabad. He is a national treasure, and his security is our utmost priority," Vijay Singha Jwala, a police officer was quoted as saying by the publication. "RCB did not want to take a risk. They informed us that there would be no practice session. Rajasthan Royals were also informed about the development, but they had no problems going ahead with their practice." Subsequently, the security was beefed up outside RCB's team hotel with IPL-accredited membersalso not being allowed to enter the hotel premises. As for the Royals, a 'green corridor' was prepared and three police convoys escorted the team bus. While skipper Sanju Samson arrived late, the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Riyan Parag and Yuzvendra Chahal skipped the practice session and remained at the hotel. As the players went through their drills, heavy security patrolled the ground. Also read | 'Will you come back?' ask fans as fugitive Vijay Mallya talks about Virat Kohli ahead of RCB's knockout match RCB face RR challenge. RCB managed to qualify for the playoffs after a remarkable turnaround in form which saw them win six matches on the bounce. In the virtual knockout that was the final league match, RCB staved off the Chennai Super Kings challenge to set up the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals. The winner of the Eliminator will square up against SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai, with the winner qualifying for the final to face Kolkata Knight Riders. Squads: Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Rovman Powell, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Sandeep Sharma, Avesh Khan, Nandre Burger, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Sen, Shubham Dubey, Keshav Maharaj, Donovan Ferreira, Navdeep Saini, Shimron Hetmyer, Tanush Kotian, Abid Mushtaq, Kunal Singh Rathore Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis(c), Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik(w), Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Yash Dayal, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, Swapnil Singh, Anuj Rawat, Suyash Prabhudessai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Himanshu Sharma, Mayank Dagar, Alzarri Joseph, Manoj Bhandage, Akash Deep, Saurav Chauhan, Rajan Kumar, Tom Curran (With inputs from agencies)

Gujarat Cricket Association reveals actual REASON behind RCB's cancelled practice and Virat Kohli's threat

Fugitive and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) owner Vijay Mallya has patted his own back for picking Virat Kohli in the auction ahead of the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2008. Mallya, who has been on the run from the Indian authorities over financial fraud, wished best of luck to RCB who face Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 22).&nbsp;

RCB bought Kohli for $30,000 for the 2008 edition after he led India to victory in the 2008 U19 World Cup. Despite not having won the IPL title even once, Kohli has remained loyal to the franchise and expressed on multiple occasions that he hopes to end his playing career in Bengaluru.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"When I bid for the RCB franchise and I bid for Virat, my inner instinct told me that I could not have made better choices. My inner instinct tells me that RCB have the best chance to go for the IPL Trophy. Onward and Upward. Best of luck,"&nbsp;Mallya posted on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;

The fans on the social media, however, had a field day trolling Mallya who usually only posts on the platform on bank holidays while sitting in the UK, away from the Indian authorities.&nbsp;

"For the first time in 6-7 years he has tweeted on a non holiday. We are massive," said one user, while another commented: "What did your instinct tell you when you fled the country instead of paying what you owed, you THIEF."

A third added: "Your inner instinct doesn't tell you to come back and watch the match in the stadium?"

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
When I bid for the RCB franchise and I bid for Virat, my inner instinct told me that I could not have made better choices. My inner instinct tells me that RCB have the best chance to go for the IPL Trophy. Onward and Upward. Best of luck.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1793023778965922195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The industrialist, whose interests include everything from alcohol to cricket to Formula 1 to aviation, is currently in Britain, as the Indian government attempts to extradite him. Despite receiving multiple summons, Mallya has failed to show up in court.

In 2017, the Supreme Court found Mallya in contempt of court for hiding information from the court about sending $40 million to his children in violation of the court's order. The court has summoned him on several instances.

<h2>RCB face RR challenge</h2>

RCB managed to qualify for the playoffs after a remarkable turnaround in form which saw them win six matches on the bounce. In the virtual knockout that was the final league match,&nbsp;RCB staved off the Chennai Super Kings challenge to set up the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals.&nbsp;

The winner of the Eliminator will square up against SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai, with the winner qualifying for the final to face Kolkata Knight Riders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Fugitive and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) owner Vijay Mallya has patted his own back for picking Virat Kohli in the auction ahead of the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2008.

Fugitive and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) owner Vijay Mallya has patted his own back for picking Virat Kohli in the auction ahead of the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2008. Mallya, who has been on the run from the Indian authorities over financial fraud, wished best of luck to RCB who face Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 22). RCB bought Kohli for $30,000 for the 2008 edition after he led India to victory in the 2008 U19 World Cup. Despite not having won the IPL title even once, Kohli has remained loyal to the franchise and expressed on multiple occasions that he hopes to end his playing career in Bengaluru. "When I bid for the RCB franchise and I bid for Virat, my inner instinct told me that I could not have made better choices. My inner instinct tells me that RCB have the best chance to go for the IPL Trophy. Onward and Upward. Best of luck," Mallya posted on X (formerly Twitter). The fans on the social media, however, had a field day trolling Mallya who usually only posts on the platform on bank holidays while sitting in the UK, away from the Indian authorities. "For the first time in 6-7 years he has tweeted on a non holiday. We are massive," said one user, while another commented: "What did your instinct tell you when you fled the country instead of paying what you owed, you THIEF." A third added: "Your inner instinct doesn't tell you to come back and watch the match in the stadium?" When I bid for the RCB franchise and I bid for Virat, my inner instinct told me that I could not have made better choices. My inner instinct tells me that RCB have the best chance to go for the IPL Trophy. Onward and Upward. Best of luck. — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) May 21, 2024 × The industrialist, whose interests include everything from alcohol to cricket to Formula 1 to aviation, is currently in Britain, as the Indian government attempts to extradite him. Despite receiving multiple summons, Mallya has failed to show up in court. In 2017, the Supreme Court found Mallya in contempt of court for hiding information from the court about sending $40 million to his children in violation of the court's order. The court has summoned him on several instances. RCB face RR challenge RCB managed to qualify for the playoffs after a remarkable turnaround in form which saw them win six matches on the bounce. In the virtual knockout that was the final league match, RCB staved off the Chennai Super Kings challenge to set up the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals. The winner of the Eliminator will square up against SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai, with the winner qualifying for the final to face Kolkata Knight Riders. (With inputs from agencies)

'Will you come back?' ask fans as fugitive Vijay Mallya talks about Virat Kohli ahead of RCB's knockout match

Amid the speculations surrounding MS Dhoni's future in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has provided an update. Dhoni did not hint at his potential retirement following CSK's last match of the season against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), leading to specuation that he was planning to come back for one last hurrah.

Amid the speculations surrounding MS Dhoni's future in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has provided an update. Dhoni did not hint at his potential retirement following CSK's last match of the season against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), leading to specuation that he was planning to come back for one last hurrah. Viswanathan said there had not been "any discussions" regarding Dhoni's future so far, and that the former CSK captain would inform them about his decision at the right time. “There were no discussions in the dressing room about it. We have never asked him about his future and neither has he said anything about it. When he takes a decision, he will inform us, until then we will not interfere," Viswanathan told The Indian Express newspaper. CSK have to make the tough call on players it wants to hold onto ahead of the mega auctions planned by the BCCI. Since Dhoni is a luxury squad player at this stage in his career, retaining him will be a high risk for the franchise. If BCCI changes the retention rules and increases the number of players a club can retain, it could possibly influence Dhoni's decision as to whether or not to come back to play for the cricket-loving Chennai crowd. Dhoni's former CSK teammate Ambati Rayudu has already stated that 'Thala' would be coming back for the 2025 season. “I don’t think this is his last game. I just don’t see him wanting to end on this note,” Rayudu said on Star Sports. “With the impact player role as well, it gives him the opportunity to be able to come in those last few overs and truly make that impact," said Rayudu. “BCCI better not remove the impact player role because we still want to see MS Dhoni play. So, it’s up to BCCI now. Do we want to see MS Dhoni play or not,” he added. Also read | IPL 2024: ‘We have seen the last of MS...,’ Dhoni to retire? Here’s what former CSK batter says Dhoni on his future Dhoni is a five-time champion with CSK, having led the franchise since its inception till this year when he handed the captaincy armband to Ruturaj Gaikwad. Quizzed last year about his retirement after CSK won the final against Gujarat Titans, Dhoni said he wanted to come back for the fans one more time. Subsequently, Dhoni underwent a knee surgery and despite playing no professional cricket since then, managed to be one of the most dangerous death-over batters in the league. If CSK had advanced to the playoffs, Dhoni could have played in front of the home crowd in Chepauk yet again as Qualifier 2 and the final are scheduled to take place in Chennai. (With inputs from agencies)

'We never asked...': Chennai Super Kings on MS Dhoni's retirement speculations

Star Sports issued a clarification statement days after Mumbai Indians (MI) player Rohit Sharma criticised the official TV broadcaster of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for invasion of privacy by airing a private conversation, despite being told not to record it.

Star Sports issued a clarification statement days after Mumbai Indians (MI) player Rohit Sharma criticised the official TV broadcaster of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for invasion of privacy by airing a private conversation, despite being told not to record it. Star Sports rebuffed Rohit's claims saying it respected players' privacy and that it didn't record any audio from a conversation Rohit had with his friends along the boundary ropes. "A clip involving a senior Indian player and his post on social media have gained prominence since yesterday. The clip, taken during a training session on May 16 at Wankhede stadium, for which Star Sports had authorised access, momentarily showed the senior player in conversation with his friends on the sidelines," Star Sports said in a statement. "No audio from this conversation was either recorded or broadcast. The clip, which only showed the senior player requesting for the audio of his conversation to not be recorded, got featured in Star Sports' live coverage of pre-match preparations and lacked editorial relevance beyond this," it added. Star Sports may have been referring to the May 16 incident when Rohit, while talking to Dhawal Kulkarni, requested the cameraperson recording them to turn off the sound. "Brother, turn off the audio. One audio has made life difficult for me," Rohit could be heard saying. Also read | Rohit Sharma launches scathing attack on broadcaster for privacy breach, calls for ‘better sense to prevail’ Rohit's convo with Nayar In a prior video, Rohit was interacting with Kolkata Knight Riders coach Abhishek Nayar about how things have gone since he was ousted as the MI captain. The entire private clip went viral, leading to speculations that Rohit was playing his final season in MI colours. After MI played its final match of the season, Rohit took to his social media handles and requested the broadcasters to draw the line between privacy and content fit for public consumption. “The lives of cricketers have become so intrusive that cameras are now recording every step and conversation we are having in privacy with our friends and colleagues, at training or on match days," Rohit wrote. “Despite asking Star Sports to not record my conversation, it was and was also then played on air, which is a breach of privacy. The need to get exclusive content and focused only on views and engagement will one day break the trust between the fans, cricketers and cricket,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

After Rohit Sharma’s ‘privacy breach’ accusations, IPL host broadcaster issues statement

All is not well in the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp as factions continue to emerge ever since Hardik Pandya returned to the franchise as the new captain. It has now been reported that Rohit Sharma and Pandya are not even practising with each other in the middle.

All is not well in the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp as factions continue to emerge ever since Hardik Pandya returned to the franchise as the new captain. It has now been reported that Rohit Sharma and Pandya are not even practising with each other in the middle. A report in Dainik Jagran has claimed that Rohit, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma got up and left the space as soon as Hardik came out to bat in the nets. The incident transpired before the match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) which MI lost after failing to chase a 158-run target. Prior to the match, Rohit was sitting on the sidelines with Suryakumar and Tilak when Hardik came out to bat. Seeing the captain walk out for practice, the trio reportedly got up and walked to the other side of the ground. Meeting held to discuss Pandya's captaincy Additionally, Rohit's chat with the KKR assistant coach Abhishek Nayar went viral on social media, showing that there was friction in the MI dressing camp. The chat seemingly confirmed that it was Rohit's last year with MI as he sought to move to a new franchise during the mega auction. Another recent report in Indian Express, citing sources close to MI claimed that senior Indian players of the team, viz. Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit and Suryakumar held a meeting, voicing their displeasure over Pandya's style of captaincy, suggesting that the team had lost its joy and morale as the season dragged on. The source said the meeting was necessitated as the team that was captained by Rohit for the last 10 years, was still coming to terms with the change of guard. “These are regular teething problems for a team that sees leadership change. This happens in sports all the time,” an MI official said. Also read | Rift brewing in MI? Star Indian players hold meeting to discuss Hardik Pandya's captaincy Pandya faces criticism Pandya has invited criticism from pundits for not having a Plan B when things go south for him. Additionally, his tendency to single out players has not gone down well within the MI camp. Notably, after MI's loss to Delhi Capitals, Pandya said Tilak should have targeted Axar Patel more and attributed the defeat to a lack of game knowledge. However, Pandya's criticism felt misplaced as Varma remains Mumbai's highest run-scorer this season and had a fantastic inning, scoring 63 runs off of 32 deliveries. MI will now face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Friday (May 17) at the Wankhede Stadium in what will be their final game of the season. (With inputs from agencies)

MI camp in disarray? Star players avoid Hardik Pandya as he comes to bat in nets: Report

Legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers has hit back after his comments regarding Hardik Pandya's captaincy were seemingly misconstrued.&nbsp;De Villiers expressed disappointment over the issue,&nbsp;adding he loves the way Hardik leads a team.

ABD issued the response after he suggested Pandya's captaincy was "ego-driven" which had brought him success at Gujarat Titans but the seniors in the MI camp were unable to adjust to such a style of captaincy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I see there is a lot of activity on X about the comments I made about Hardik Pandya and Mumbai Indians. And it's a shame that journalism and reporting has got so low (laughs). And I am very happy that some of you have pointed it out, taking some of those comments out and leaving the rest," De Villiers said in a video posted on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;

"I very clearly stated and I will state this again -- I absolutely love the way Hardik Pandya plays his game. I love the way he captains. All I can say is, his style of captaincy is something that he has certainly worked on. It's not something that you can just walk out of the door and you are a brave captain."

The former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter said even during his playing days, he had to put on an 'act' in front of the cameras, as Pandya is doing,&nbsp;

"Why I said it's always not genuine is because I played exactly the same way. I was not the soft-spoken, genuine AB de Villiers that I was at my home. The guy you saw on the field was in a way 'an act'. Sometimes, you have to put up a front and show the opposition that you are a force to reckon with."&nbsp;

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<h2>Rift in MI camp?</h2>

A recent Indian Express report, citing sources close to MI stated that senior Indian players of the team viz. Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav held a meeting, voicing their displeasure over&nbsp;Pandya's&nbsp;style of captaincy, suggesting that the team had lost its joy and morale as the season dragged on.&nbsp;

The source said the meeting was necessitated&nbsp;as the team that was captained by Rohit for the last&nbsp;10&nbsp;years,&nbsp;was still coming to terms with the change of guard.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rift-brewing-in-mi-star-indian-players-hold-meeting-to-discuss-hardik-pandyas-captaincy-719710">Also read |&nbsp;Rift brewing in MI? Star Indian players hold meeting to discuss Hardik Pandya's captaincy</a>

<h2>Pandya faces criticism</h2>

Pandya has invited criticism from pundits for not having a Plan B when things get south for him. Additionally, his tendency to single out players has not gone down well within the MI camp.&nbsp;

Notably, after&nbsp;MI's&nbsp;loss against the Delhi Capitals, Pandya said Tilak Varma should have targeted Axar Patel more and attributed the defeat to a lack of game knowledge.

However,&nbsp;Pandya's&nbsp;criticism felt misplaced as Varma&nbsp;remains&nbsp;Mumbai's&nbsp;highest run-scorer this season and had a fantastic inning, scoring 63 runs off of 32 deliveries.&nbsp;

MI will now face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Friday (May 17) at the Wankhede Stadium in what will be their final game of the season.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers has hit back after his comments regarding Hardik Pandya's captaincy were seemingly misconstrued. De Villiers expressed disappointment over the issue, adding he loves the way Hardik leads a team.

Legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers has hit back after his comments regarding Hardik Pandya's captaincy were seemingly misconstrued. De Villiers expressed disappointment over the issue, adding he loves the way Hardik leads a team. ABD issued the response after he suggested Pandya's captaincy was "ego-driven" which had brought him success at Gujarat Titans but the seniors in the MI camp were unable to adjust to such a style of captaincy. "I see there is a lot of activity on X about the comments I made about Hardik Pandya and Mumbai Indians. And it's a shame that journalism and reporting has got so low (laughs). And I am very happy that some of you have pointed it out, taking some of those comments out and leaving the rest," De Villiers said in a video posted on his YouTube channel. "I very clearly stated and I will state this again -- I absolutely love the way Hardik Pandya plays his game. I love the way he captains. All I can say is, his style of captaincy is something that he has certainly worked on. It's not something that you can just walk out of the door and you are a brave captain." The former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter said even during his playing days, he had to put on an 'act' in front of the cameras, as Pandya is doing, "Why I said it's always not genuine is because I played exactly the same way. I was not the soft-spoken, genuine AB de Villiers that I was at my home. The guy you saw on the field was in a way 'an act'. Sometimes, you have to put up a front and show the opposition that you are a force to reckon with." View this post on Instagram A post shared by AB de Villiers (@abdevilliers17) × Rift in MI camp? A recent Indian Express report, citing sources close to MI stated that senior Indian players of the team viz. Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav held a meeting, voicing their displeasure over Pandya's style of captaincy, suggesting that the team had lost its joy and morale as the season dragged on. The source said the meeting was necessitated as the team that was captained by Rohit for the last 10 years, was still coming to terms with the change of guard. Also read | Rift brewing in MI? Star Indian players hold meeting to discuss Hardik Pandya's captaincy Pandya faces criticism Pandya has invited criticism from pundits for not having a Plan B when things get south for him. Additionally, his tendency to single out players has not gone down well within the MI camp. Notably, after MI's loss against the Delhi Capitals, Pandya said Tilak Varma should have targeted Axar Patel more and attributed the defeat to a lack of game knowledge. However, Pandya's criticism felt misplaced as Varma remains Mumbai's highest run-scorer this season and had a fantastic inning, scoring 63 runs off of 32 deliveries. MI will now face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Friday (May 17) at the Wankhede Stadium in what will be their final game of the season. (With inputs from agencies)

‘It’s a shame...’: AB de Villiers issues clarification on misquoted Hardik Pandya comments

Senior members of Mumbai Indians (MI) have raised concerns over the future of the franchise after the team crashed out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season under captain Hardik Pandya.

Senior members of Mumbai Indians (MI) have raised concerns over the future of the franchise after the team crashed out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season under captain Hardik Pandya. MI old guards Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah among others held a meeting to assess the future of the team, according to a report in The Indian Express. The senior players have voiced their displeasure over Pandya's style of captaincy, suggesting that the team had lost its joy and morale as the season continued. The meeting was held to discuss what the star players felt was the fundamental issue. Citing sources close to MI, the report stated that the meeting was necessitated as the team that was captained by Rohit for the last 10 years, was still coming to terms with the change of guard. “These are regular teething problems for a team that sees leadership change. This happens in sports all the time,” an MI official said. Also read | IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter Pandya faces criticism Pandya has invited criticism from pundits for not having a Plan B when things get south for him. Additionally, his tendency to single out players has not gone down well within the MI camp. Notably, after MI's loss against the Delhi Capitals, Pandya said Tilak Varma should have targeted Axar Patel more and attributed the defeat to a lack of game knowledge. A left-hand batter against a left-arm spinner is regarded as a great match-up for the former to score runs. However, Pandya's criticism felt misplaced as Varma remains Mumbai's highest scorer this season and had a fantastic inning, scoring 63 runs off of 32 deliveries. Owing to the continuous failure of the team, former Australian captain Michael Clarke opined that the five-time champions were struggling due to the factions that had developed. “I don’t know. I think it's wishful thinking for Mumbai this entire IPL. I think there’s a lot more going on than what we are seeing on the outside and you can’t have that many good players and perform this inconsistently,” said Clarke. “I think there are different groups inside that changing room and something is not working, they are not gelling together, they are not playing as a team,” he added. MI will now face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Saturday (May 11) at the Eden Gardens in what will be their penultimate game of the season. (With inputs from agencies)

Rift brewing in MI? Star Indian players hold meeting to discuss Hardik Pandya's captaincy

Former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram has chimed in on the ongoing controversy between Virat Kohli and Sunil Gavaskar. The legendary speedster said Kohli should not have responded to the critics, including Gavaskar, who had criticised his low strike rate during the ongoing season of Indian Premier League (IPL).

Referring to both as "greats" of the game, Akram said their contribution to Indian cricket was immense but the altercation could have been avoided.

"Both are greats. Sunny bhai [brother], as a cricketer, as a human being, I know him off the field. As a commentator, he has been doing it for God knows how many years. And coming to the great man, Virat Kohli, he is a top player, a modern great," Akram told Sportskeeda.&nbsp;

"In fact, he is an all-time great in history, given the kind of performances he has had. But I think Virat shouldn't have said that," he added.&nbsp;

The former Pakistan captain urged both of them to "forget" the incident and move on from it.&nbsp;

"It is the commentators' job. If he got slow in a couple of matches and he [Gavaskar] said something, forget about it. Virat is not that kind of a person."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-can-sit-and-talk-virat-kohli-lashes-out-at-strike-rate-critics-ahead-of-world-cup-squad-selection-716004">Also read |&nbsp;‘People can sit and talk,’ Virat Kohli lashes out at ‘strike-rate’ critics ahead of World Cup squad selection</a>

<h2>What did Virat say?</h2>

Kohli's spot in the T20 World Cup squad had been subject of intense scrutiny since the start of the IPL season. Despite being the leading run-scorer in the tournament, critics have gone after Kohli, arguing that the former Indian captain did not have the power game to take up a spot in the top order.&nbsp;

However, after playing a match-winning knock against Gujarat Titans last month, Kohli lashed out at the critics.&nbsp;

"I think all the people who talk about strike rates and me not playing spin well are the ones who love talking about this stuff. But, for me, it's about winning the game for the team. And there is a reason you have done this for 15 years," said Kohli.&nbsp;

"You have done this, day in and day out. You have won games for your team. And I am not quite sure if you have not been in that situation yourself, to sit and speak about the game from a box," he added.

Replying to Kohli’s remarks, Gavaskar did not pull any punches and said he will keep questioning anyone whose strike rate is low, opening the innings.&nbsp;

"Commentators questioned only when his strike rate was 118. I'm not too sure. I don't watch too many matches, so I don't know what the other commentators have said otherwise. But if you come and open and then have a strike of 118 when you get out in the 14th or the 15th over, I mean, if you want applause for that, that's a little bit different. That's different," said Gavaskar on Star Sports.&nbsp;

Gavaskar continued by saying as experts and as someone who has played the game, they know what they are talking about. He added that experts don’t have agendas and say what they see.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram has chimed in on the ongoing controversy between Virat Kohli and Sunil Gavaskar. The legendary speedster said Kohli should not have responded to the critics, including Gavaskar, who had criticised his low strike rate during the ongoing season of Indian Premier League (IPL).

Former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram has chimed in on the ongoing controversy between Virat Kohli and Sunil Gavaskar. The legendary speedster said Kohli should not have responded to the critics, including Gavaskar, who had criticised his low strike rate during the ongoing season of Indian Premier League (IPL). Referring to both as "greats" of the game, Akram said their contribution to Indian cricket was immense but the altercation could have been avoided. "Both are greats. Sunny bhai [brother], as a cricketer, as a human being, I know him off the field. As a commentator, he has been doing it for God knows how many years. And coming to the great man, Virat Kohli, he is a top player, a modern great," Akram told Sportskeeda. "In fact, he is an all-time great in history, given the kind of performances he has had. But I think Virat shouldn't have said that," he added. The former Pakistan captain urged both of them to "forget" the incident and move on from it. "It is the commentators' job. If he got slow in a couple of matches and he [Gavaskar] said something, forget about it. Virat is not that kind of a person." Also read | ‘People can sit and talk,’ Virat Kohli lashes out at ‘strike-rate’ critics ahead of World Cup squad selection What did Virat say? Kohli's spot in the T20 World Cup squad had been subject of intense scrutiny since the start of the IPL season. Despite being the leading run-scorer in the tournament, critics have gone after Kohli, arguing that the former Indian captain did not have the power game to take up a spot in the top order. However, after playing a match-winning knock against Gujarat Titans last month, Kohli lashed out at the critics. "I think all the people who talk about strike rates and me not playing spin well are the ones who love talking about this stuff. But, for me, it's about winning the game for the team. And there is a reason you have done this for 15 years," said Kohli. "You have done this, day in and day out. You have won games for your team. And I am not quite sure if you have not been in that situation yourself, to sit and speak about the game from a box," he added. Replying to Kohli’s remarks, Gavaskar did not pull any punches and said he will keep questioning anyone whose strike rate is low, opening the innings. "Commentators questioned only when his strike rate was 118. I'm not too sure. I don't watch too many matches, so I don't know what the other commentators have said otherwise. But if you come and open and then have a strike of 118 when you get out in the 14th or the 15th over, I mean, if you want applause for that, that's a little bit different. That's different," said Gavaskar on Star Sports. Gavaskar continued by saying as experts and as someone who has played the game, they know what they are talking about. He added that experts don’t have agendas and say what they see. (With inputs from agencies)

‘He shouldn’t have...’: Wasim Akram on Virat Kohli-Sunil Gavaskar altercation in IPL

Mumbai Indians (MI) batter Suryakumar Yadav played a match-winning knock against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Monday (May 6), but Indian cricket fans were left worried as the star batter limped off the ground.

Mumbai Indians (MI) batter Suryakumar Yadav played a match-winning knock against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Monday (May 6), but Indian cricket fans were left worried as the star batter limped off the ground. The No. 3 batter looked visibly tired throughout the innings, leading to speculations that he was nursing an injury that could jeopardise his place in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Speaking after the match where he was given the Player of the Match award, Suryakumar, however, confirmed that he was not injured and that his hobbling was due to the amount of time he had spent in the middle. "I've been doing this after a very long time - first time after 14th December I've fielded for 20 overs and then batted for almost 18 overs. Little bit tired (nothing else to worry about)," said Suryakumar. "I feel it was the need of the hour - 3 wickets down when I went in. Someone had to play till the end, and that's what I did. Played for some time - I knew that the dew was heavy, and once the seam goes off, it will be easy for a batter to play. Enjoyed my time," he added. Also read | India's Suryakumar Yadav named ICC T20I cricketer of the year for second time in a row Suryakumar's counterattack Chasing a tricky target of 174, MI were off to a poor start and lost three wickets with the scoreboard only reading 31. From thereon, Suryakumar unleashed his audacious strokeplay against the SRH bowlers and managed to reach his century with a six, while also helping MI get over the line. Suryakumar was ably supported by Tilak Varma who played a sensible 32-ball 37-run innings and helped sustain the counterattack launched by the right-hander dasher. Speaking after the match, captain Hardik Pandya said the win was down to bowlers performing admirably in the first innings. "We want to focus on playing good cricket. We were good with the ball today, still reckon we gave 10-15 runs extra. Nevertheless, the way batters batted was brilliant," said Pandya. Suryakumar's resurgence with the bat augurs well for the Indian team who will be relying on him to come good in the T20 World Cup. India have been without an ICC trophy for more than a decade and Suryakumar's form would be paramount in deciding if the jinx is broken or not. (With inputs from agencies)

Suryakumar Yadav injured for T20 WC? Star batter provides update

Amid mounting criticism from former players as to why MS Dhoni was batting extremely low down the order for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), it has been reported that the former captain's delayed arrival at the crease was due to an injury he was nursing.

Amid mounting criticism from former players as to why MS Dhoni was batting extremely low down the order for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), it has been reported that the former captain's delayed arrival at the crease was due to an injury he was nursing. Ever since Dhoni came down at no. 9 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Punjab Kings (PBKS), the likes of Irfan Pathan and Harbhajan Singh have launched an attack on him, suggesting that the former Indian batter should not be part of the playing XI if he cannot come up the order. However, a report in the Times of India, citing CSK sources, claims that Dhoni has a muscle tear in his leg which has reduced his ability to run for too long. The injury happened early on in the season but due to the absence of the team's second wicketkeeper - Devon Conway, who is also out due to injury, Dhoni has been forced to take the field. Dhoni is reportedly taking medicines before coming to bat or field and has actively attempted to minimise his running. Notably, in one of the previous matches, Dhoni had refused a single to Daryl Mitchell in the last over and later got a runout on the final ball, taking the extra run. "We are virtually playing with our ‘B' team. Those who are criticizing Dhoni don't know the sacrifice that he is doing for this team," the CSK source was quoted as saying. Also read | 'Include a pacer than send MS Dhoni at No. 9' - Harbhajan SLAMS CSK star for his batting slot vs PBKS What did Harbhajan say? During the match, Harbhajan came down heavy on Dhoni as well as the CSK think tank. The former off-spinner said Dhini should not be playing and instead his spot should go to a pacer. "MS Dhoni shouldn't play if he wants to bat at the number 9 slot. It is better to include a fast bowler than him in the playing XI. He is the decision-maker and has let down his team by not coming out to bat," said Harbhajan on Star Sports. “CSK were in a need of quick runs and Dhoni has done that in the previous games. It was shocking that he stayed back in the important contest against Punjab Kings. Even if CSK win today, I will still call out Dhoni. Let people say anything. I will say what is right." CSK are currently in the top 4 but will need to keep their winning streak going to secure a playoff spot. One slip-up and the five-time champions may slide down the table into the mid-table logjam where several teams are sitting on the same points. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: Reason behind MS Dhoni's decision to bat down the order revealed

Australian batter David Warner has opened up on the acrimonious break-up with SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and the subsequent blocking on social media, saying it was bizarre and that it did 'hurt him'.&nbsp;

Warner realised he was blocked by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise in 2023 when he attempted to congratulate his national teammate Travis Head, who was acquired by SRH.&nbsp;

"It did (hurt) because it was a sense of like hurt for fans. The fans are the most important relationship you could have. With the engagement with the fans that I had, with the team had was very good," Warner said in the latest episode of R Ashwin's YouTube show.

"Not sure why I was blocked. But, I did engage with a lot of fans on the social media side for SRH. I did feel it was my duty to engage with the fans, making sure they keep coming back. That's what is most important. But from the blocking point of view, I don't know. I have been sitting on it for about five&nbsp;years. It was bizarre. At the end of the day, I still got fans who come onto my page and talk to everyone. So it's great," he added.

<h2>Warner's SRH journey</h2>

Warner joined a struggling SRH side in 2014 and quickly went on to become a mainstay in the batting unit. He was appointed the captain in 2015 and a year later, led the team to its maiden IPL title, beating star-studded Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the final&nbsp;while finishing the tournament as the second-highest run-getter with 848 runs.&nbsp;

Apart from being a terrific player for the franchise, Warner managed to form a close, intrinsic bond with the Hyderabad fans, who adored him to death. Hence, when&nbsp;the partnership between the SRH board and Warner came to a bitter end, the fans were left perplexed as to what transpired behind the scenes.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-breaks-silence-on-fall-from-grace-at-srh-was-not-explained-why-i-was-dropped-as-captain-420196">Also read |&nbsp;David Warner breaks silence on fall from grace at SRH: Was not explained why I was dropped as captain</a>

Warner had started the 2021 IPL season as SRH captain but was sacked midway through the tournament and later dropped from the playing XI. To this day, Warner maintains that he does not know what he did to irk the SRH board. However, the southpaw has made peace with the fact that he may never get the answers he is looking for.&nbsp;

“Especially when you have played about 100 games for the franchise, I think I had four bad games in those first five matches in Chennai. It is difficult, a tough pill to swallow. There are still questions to which I think I'll never get answers, but you have to move on,” said Warner last year.&nbsp;

After leaving SRH, Warner joined Delhi Capitals where he has been shouldering the opening responsibilities. The 2024 season has not been the best for the Australian who has been injured and only featured in seven matches, scoring 167 runs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian batter David Warner has opened up on the acrimonious break-up with SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and the subsequent blocking on social media, saying it was bizarre and that it did 'hurt him'.

Australian batter David Warner has opened up on the acrimonious break-up with SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and the subsequent blocking on social media, saying it was bizarre and that it did 'hurt him'. Warner realised he was blocked by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise in 2023 when he attempted to congratulate his national teammate Travis Head, who was acquired by SRH. "It did (hurt) because it was a sense of like hurt for fans. The fans are the most important relationship you could have. With the engagement with the fans that I had, with the team had was very good," Warner said in the latest episode of R Ashwin's YouTube show. "Not sure why I was blocked. But, I did engage with a lot of fans on the social media side for SRH. I did feel it was my duty to engage with the fans, making sure they keep coming back. That's what is most important. But from the blocking point of view, I don't know. I have been sitting on it for about five years. It was bizarre. At the end of the day, I still got fans who come onto my page and talk to everyone. So it's great," he added. Warner's SRH journey Warner joined a struggling SRH side in 2014 and quickly went on to become a mainstay in the batting unit. He was appointed the captain in 2015 and a year later, led the team to its maiden IPL title, beating star-studded Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the final while finishing the tournament as the second-highest run-getter with 848 runs. Apart from being a terrific player for the franchise, Warner managed to form a close, intrinsic bond with the Hyderabad fans, who adored him to death. Hence, when the partnership between the SRH board and Warner came to a bitter end, the fans were left perplexed as to what transpired behind the scenes. Also read | David Warner breaks silence on fall from grace at SRH: Was not explained why I was dropped as captain Warner had started the 2021 IPL season as SRH captain but was sacked midway through the tournament and later dropped from the playing XI. To this day, Warner maintains that he does not know what he did to irk the SRH board. However, the southpaw has made peace with the fact that he may never get the answers he is looking for. “Especially when you have played about 100 games for the franchise, I think I had four bad games in those first five matches in Chennai. It is difficult, a tough pill to swallow. There are still questions to which I think I'll never get answers, but you have to move on,” said Warner last year. After leaving SRH, Warner joined Delhi Capitals where he has been shouldering the opening responsibilities. The 2024 season has not been the best for the Australian who has been injured and only featured in seven matches, scoring 167 runs. (With inputs from agencies)

'It did hurt': David Warner reflects on SRH blocking him on social media

In what comes as a big blow to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), their strike pace bowler, Matheesha Pathirana, will return to Sri Lanka as he recovers from a hamstring injury.&nbsp;CSK will be without the services of Pathirana, nicknamed 'Baby Malinga' by the fanbase, as the tournament heads into its business end.&nbsp;

The five-time champions have endured an inconsistent season but Pathirana has been one of the few bright spots - often bailing out the team from dire situations.&nbsp;The right-arm pacer played six matches in IPL 2024 picking up 13 wickets at an economy rate&nbsp;of 7.68.

"Chennai Super Kings pacer Matheesha Pathirana is nursing a hamstring injury and will be returning to Sri Lanka for further recovery," the franchise informed.

Though CSK are placed 4th in the IPL 2024 points table, with five&nbsp;wins in 10 games, the final run of four&nbsp;games could be tricky for them without the support of some of the star players.

The franchise didn't inform if Pathirana will be returning for the playoffs, which start on May 21 with the first qualifier between the top two teams, scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ms-dhoni-is-like-my-father-in-cricket-life-says-matheesha-pathirana-717959">Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: ‘MS Dhoni is like my father in cricket life’, says Matheesha Pathirana</a>

<h2>A depleted CSK squad&nbsp;</h2>

In the lead-up to the match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Sunday (May 5), head coach Stephen Fleming had provided a grim outlook of the squad. CSK are already without the services of an injured Deepak Chahar while Mustafizur Rahman has returned to Bangladesh due to national team commitments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Deepak Chahar doesn't look good. Initial feeling wasn't great. So we are waiting for more positive report. Physio and doctors will have a look. Sri Lankan boys are off to get visa. So we are hoping that their process is smooth. And we get them back for our next game up north (at Dharamshala)," said Fleming earlier this week.&nbsp;

"Tushar Deshpande got flu, so we had to make a few changes today, which is a bit unusual. But again that's part of it and we have got resources. It's just they haven't got time to be comfortable about their roles and us to be comfortable with the game plan that we are struggling with," Fleming added.

Teams:&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni(w), Mitchell Santner, Shardul Thakur, Richard Gleeson, Tushar Deshpande

Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Jonny Bairstow, Rilee Rossouw, Shashank Singh, Sam Curran(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Rahul Chahar, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a big blow to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), their strike pace bowler, Matheesha Pathirana, will return to Sri Lanka as he recovers from a hamstring injury.

In what comes as a big blow to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), their strike pace bowler, Matheesha Pathirana, will return to Sri Lanka as he recovers from a hamstring injury. CSK will be without the services of Pathirana, nicknamed 'Baby Malinga' by the fanbase, as the tournament heads into its business end. The five-time champions have endured an inconsistent season but Pathirana has been one of the few bright spots - often bailing out the team from dire situations. The right-arm pacer played six matches in IPL 2024 picking up 13 wickets at an economy rate of 7.68. "Chennai Super Kings pacer Matheesha Pathirana is nursing a hamstring injury and will be returning to Sri Lanka for further recovery," the franchise informed. Though CSK are placed 4th in the IPL 2024 points table, with five wins in 10 games, the final run of four games could be tricky for them without the support of some of the star players. The franchise didn't inform if Pathirana will be returning for the playoffs, which start on May 21 with the first qualifier between the top two teams, scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Also read | IPL 2024: ‘MS Dhoni is like my father in cricket life’, says Matheesha Pathirana A depleted CSK squad In the lead-up to the match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Sunday (May 5), head coach Stephen Fleming had provided a grim outlook of the squad. CSK are already without the services of an injured Deepak Chahar while Mustafizur Rahman has returned to Bangladesh due to national team commitments. "Deepak Chahar doesn't look good. Initial feeling wasn't great. So we are waiting for more positive report. Physio and doctors will have a look. Sri Lankan boys are off to get visa. So we are hoping that their process is smooth. And we get them back for our next game up north (at Dharamshala)," said Fleming earlier this week. "Tushar Deshpande got flu, so we had to make a few changes today, which is a bit unusual. But again that's part of it and we have got resources. It's just they haven't got time to be comfortable about their roles and us to be comfortable with the game plan that we are struggling with," Fleming added. Teams: Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni(w), Mitchell Santner, Shardul Thakur, Richard Gleeson, Tushar Deshpande Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Jonny Bairstow, Rilee Rossouw, Shashank Singh, Sam Curran(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Rahul Chahar, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: Big BLOW for CSK as star bowler returns home due to injury

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) could collide with the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) over scheduling window from upcoming seasons, per the latest report.

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) could collide with the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) over scheduling window from upcoming seasons, per the latest report. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) met owners of all six PSL franchises, proposing several new plans, including hosting the PSL in the April-May window from next season onwards. Among the other proposals, increasing the salary cap of certain marquee overseas players and choosing neutral venues for PSL playoffs, including the UK, UAE and Australia, were also discussed. PSL colliding with the most successful and followed franchise-based T20 League could hamper it in many ways, with the board remaining aware of it. The report suggests instead of competing with the IPL, all concerned members during the discussion agreed that PSL would rather ‘co-exist’ with the Indian Premier League. Although no official word is out on what the final plan would be, Lahore Qalandars – the two-time winners are said to oppose this idea. Other team owners are also undecided and not in favour of some or all proposals. Meanwhile, given Pakistan is scheduled to host the ICC Champions Trophy next year during the February-March window, PSL 10 will take place from April 7 to May 20. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Gavaskar bashes Kohli over ‘outside noise’ remarks - ‘We don’t have agendas, we speak what we see’ Besides, the ESPNcricinfo report further suggests the PCB proposed this window as permanent for hosting PSL for a few years. Although the weather conditions during May could work against this idea, PCB feels instead of hosting it during the tight window from December to February, where it’s already competing with four other leagues worldwide, the April-May window could fit for many reasons. While a small window during September was also discussed, considering the Ramadan calendar from next year onwards, PSL’s new schedule could benefit all, from the players to the broadcasters to the revenue and sponsorship models. Moreover, considering all marquee overseas players would go under the hammer during the IPL auction, the PCB proposed the franchises go all-out to attract certain top foreign players with an increased salary cap (USD 300,000-plus) as compared to the current one (USD 220,00). For this, the board also proposed the PSL draft to take place after the IPL auction, having clarity over the status of overseas cricketers. Neutral venues on PCB’s mind To spice things up and also considering the weather conditions in this part of the world during the proposed new window, the board listed three potential venues – UK, UAE and Australia. Considering May is too hot for the UAE and cold for Australia, the UK is the best option left. However, a final decision will be made during the formal PSL governing council meeting due at the end of May.

PSL set to collide with IPL over scheduling window as PCB proposes new plans for upcoming seasons

India and Rajasthan Royals ace spinner Ravi Ashwin feels the bowlers will soon need a mental boost if batters continue to smash them with utter disdain like they are doing in IPL 2024.

India and Rajasthan Royals ace spinner Ravi Ashwin feels the bowlers will soon need a mental boost if batters continue to smash them with utter disdain like they are doing in IPL 2024. Punjab Kings completed the highest successful run-chase in all T20s – hunting 262 against Kolkata Knight Riders this season, with teams posting 250-plus for fun. Such scores have made a mockery of even the best bowling attacks. Teams like SunRisers Hyderabad broke the record of IPL’s highest team total twice this season, with the latest one coming against Royal Challengers Bengaluru – 287 for three. Speaking on these lines, Ashwin said the stadiums built back in the day have started to look smaller in front of the modern-day T20 hitting, where batters are fearless and take the attack to the opposition from ball one. "The stadiums built back in the day are not relevant in the modern day. The bats that were used back then were also used for gully cricket. With LED boards of the sponsors being used, the boundary has come in by 10 yards," Ashwin said during a promotional event. "It is tilting too far on the other side, which will make someone's misery your great time. Bowlers will need a mental boost," he continued. ALSO READ: BCCI selectors want IPL 2024 sensation Mayank Yadav fit for Australia Tests in November – Reports Although he talks on behalf of bowlers facing unnecessary wrath for teams posting massive team totals, he understands what the crowd comes for in IPL. "...But you are certainly marvelled at ball-striking. At the end of the day spectators come to watch fours and sixes," Ashwin said. Bond seconds with Ashwin Shane Bond, RR’s bowling coach, seconds with Ravi Ashwin on this, saying batters have come far, and with the help of modern-day hitting, they have become stars and make huge money. However, for the bowlers, only those who manage to do well across all formats, with only a handful left, are playing the catching-up game. "For bowlers now, if you can bowl well, you can make a lot of money. Batting has evolved, and bowling is catching up," Shane Bond said. Meanwhile, Ashwin is having a torrid run this season, having picked just two wickets in nine contested matches, going at nine runs per over. Although his numbers look poor on paper, his team sits at the top of the points table, with eight wins from 10 games. RR has 16 points, needing just one win in their remaining four matches to seal the playoff spot. Their next game is against Delhi Capitals on Tuesday (May 7) in Delhi.

IPL 2024: Ravi Ashwin seeks respite for bowlers, says modern-day hitting is making stadiums look smaller

Jake Fraser-McGurk is the most-talked-about name in world cricket, with his exploits for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024 speaking for itself. Considering the deadline date for the upcoming T20 World Cup (May 1) is approaching, Jake’s name is said to be discussed within the selection committee, with former stars like Mark Waugh and Michael Clarke backing him to break into the squad.

Jake Fraser-McGurk is the most-talked-about name in world cricket, with his exploits for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024 speaking for itself. Considering the deadline date for the upcoming T20 World Cup (May 1) is approaching, Jake’s name is said to be discussed within the selection committee, with former stars like Mark Waugh and Michael Clarke backing him to break into the squad. The young right-hander wasn’t even a household name until last year; however, after making headlines for smashing the fastest List-A hundred in just 29 balls (for South Australia last year), he attracted eyeballs from all across. Soon after, he made his international debut against West Indies, hitting 41 off 18 balls in just his second ODI. Although all 10 IPL teams overlooked him at the December auction last year, the Delhi Capitals roped in the 22-year-old as an injury replacement mid-way into the tournament. Of the 10 matches DC played thus far this season, Jake played five, hitting 247 runs, including three fifties – two of which came in 15 or fewer balls. ALSO READ: 'Won't be in my team': Sehwag on Ashwin's lack of wickets; says RR star might go unsold in IPL 2025 auction Former Australia opener Mark Waugh was stunned by Jake’s innings against Mumbai Indians at home, where he smashed 84 off 27 balls, batting at the top. Waugh took to social media, saying Jake must be one of the first names to be on the flight to the Caribbean and the USA for the marquee event. Backing him to take up the opener’s slot, Waugh posted on X, “Should be the first name on the sheet. Absolute certainty to be picked and open the batting in the World Cup.” Should the first name on the sheet. Absolute certainty to be picked and open the batting in the World Cup. — Mark Waugh (@juniorwaugh349) April 28, 2024 × Former Aussie captain Michael Clarke also shared his thoughts on Jake’s potential selection, saying the Geroge Bailey-led selection committee must start considering him for the 20-team tournament. "The selectors have to be thinking about him now, with the team just a few days away from being selected," Michael Clarke said last week, as quoted by cricket.com.au. "It's hard to leave him out, to be honest, the way he's played so far." ‘He’s a risk taker’ Recently-retired ex-Australia captain Aaron Finch also echoed the same, adding Jake’s style of play is that of a risk taker, and with comes a lot of perks. "The way he plays – yes, it's high risk, but high risk is high reward – so you have to make sure you put the right structure around them and almost make their performances just the cherry on top on the rest of the side," Finch said on the Willow Talk podcast recently. Meanwhile, Australia’s final 15 is more or less selected, with one or two additions to the side, including that of Jake Fraser-McGurk.

Jake Fraser-McGurk’s selection a topic of discussion for selectors as former stars back him for T20 WC spot

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) returned to winning ways on Sunday (Apr 28), defeating SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 78 runs after captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (98) played another masterful knock to set up the game nicely for the home side. Chasing a daunting target of 213, SRH's famed top-order could not get going as Tushar Deshpande struck thrice in the powerplay, ensuring that the 2016 champions always played the catch-up game.&nbsp;

Dangerman Travis Head was the first to depart as he scythed a wide outside off delivery, straight into the big mittens of Daryl Mitchell stationed on the deep point boundary. On the very next delivery, impact sub Anmolpreet Singh returned to the pavilion as the ball kissed the leading edge and went towards Moeen Ali on the ring.&nbsp;

Abhishek Sharma, one of the most lethal hitters of the tournament, did thump a few lusty blows but even he fell to Deshpande's guile. Nitish Reddy forged a brief 32-run partnership with Aiden Markram but never looked threatening.&nbsp;

Skipper Gaikwad brought Matheesha Pathirana after the halfway mark and he instantly made an impact by flattening the middle stump of Markram. The South African's wicket was perhaps the final nail in the coffin for SunRisers who never recovered from there and eventually went down with a whimper.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/ipl-section/most-200plus-totals-by-csk-in-an-ipl-season-1714321340862">Also read |&nbsp;Most 200-Plus Totals By CSK In An IPL Season</a>

<h2>CSK slam another 200</h2>

Having lost the toss yet again, CSK were invited to bat first on a track that was conducive to stroke-making. However, SRH bowlers kept a tight lid on proceedings at the start and managed to get Ajinkya Rahane's number, whose poor form with the bat continued.&nbsp;

Despite Mitchell and Gaikwad trying their best to up the ante, the powerplay phase belonged to the SRH bowlers. However, once they both got their eyes in, big shots started flowing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/ipl-section/highest-successful-run-chases-by-rcb-1714313683084">Also read |&nbsp;Highest Successful Run Chases By RCB</a>

Mitchell shrugged off his woes with the bat by smashing his maiden IPL half-century while Gaikwad, looking imperious yet again, fell two runs short of back-to-back centuries. However, by the time both batters were dismissed, CSK were well on their way to a total above 200. Shivam Dube and MS Dhoni applied the finishing touches as the hosts finished with a competitive 212 on board.&nbsp;

The win ensures that CSK are right back in the race for the playoffs spot with 10 points in nine matches. It also makes up for an interesting final stretch of the tournament as five teams below table-toppers, Rajasthan Royals, now have 10 points.&nbsp;

With another home game at Chepauk coming, the five-time champions would be hoping to build an advantage before venturing away from home.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) returned to winning ways on Sunday (Apr 28), defeating SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 78 runs after captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (98) played another masterful knock to set up the game nicely for the home side.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) returned to winning ways on Sunday (Apr 28), defeating SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 78 runs after captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (98) played another masterful knock to set up the game nicely for the home side. Chasing a daunting target of 213, SRH's famed top-order could not get going as Tushar Deshpande struck thrice in the powerplay, ensuring that the 2016 champions always played the catch-up game. Dangerman Travis Head was the first to depart as he scythed a wide outside off delivery, straight into the big mittens of Daryl Mitchell stationed on the deep point boundary. On the very next delivery, impact sub Anmolpreet Singh returned to the pavilion as the ball kissed the leading edge and went towards Moeen Ali on the ring. Abhishek Sharma, one of the most lethal hitters of the tournament, did thump a few lusty blows but even he fell to Deshpande's guile. Nitish Reddy forged a brief 32-run partnership with Aiden Markram but never looked threatening. Skipper Gaikwad brought Matheesha Pathirana after the halfway mark and he instantly made an impact by flattening the middle stump of Markram. The South African's wicket was perhaps the final nail in the coffin for SunRisers who never recovered from there and eventually went down with a whimper. Also read | Most 200-Plus Totals By CSK In An IPL Season CSK slam another 200 Having lost the toss yet again, CSK were invited to bat first on a track that was conducive to stroke-making. However, SRH bowlers kept a tight lid on proceedings at the start and managed to get Ajinkya Rahane's number, whose poor form with the bat continued. Despite Mitchell and Gaikwad trying their best to up the ante, the powerplay phase belonged to the SRH bowlers. However, once they both got their eyes in, big shots started flowing. Also read | Highest Successful Run Chases By RCB Mitchell shrugged off his woes with the bat by smashing his maiden IPL half-century while Gaikwad, looking imperious yet again, fell two runs short of back-to-back centuries. However, by the time both batters were dismissed, CSK were well on their way to a total above 200. Shivam Dube and MS Dhoni applied the finishing touches as the hosts finished with a competitive 212 on board. The win ensures that CSK are right back in the race for the playoffs spot with 10 points in nine matches. It also makes up for an interesting final stretch of the tournament as five teams below table-toppers, Rajasthan Royals, now have 10 points. With another home game at Chepauk coming, the five-time champions would be hoping to build an advantage before venturing away from home.

IPL 2024: CSK return to winning ways, thrash SRH by 78 runs at Chepauk

The hosts Chennai Super Kings have beaten SunRisers Hyderabad by 78 runs to win the return leg at Chepauk in IPL 2024. CSK vs SRH IPL Match Highlights: CSK beat SRH at home by 78 runs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: CSK gets revenge at Chepauk The hosts CSK have won the return leg over SunRisers Hyderabad at home by 78 runs.

The hosts Chennai Super Kings have beaten SunRisers Hyderabad by 78 runs to win the return leg at Chepauk in IPL 2024. CSK vs SRH IPL Match Highlights: CSK beat SRH at home by 78 runs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: CSK gets revenge at Chepauk The hosts CSK have won the return leg over SunRisers Hyderabad at home by 78 runs. SRH: 124/8 in 17.3 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: SRH needs 95 from four overs Pathirana seems to have done the job for CSK as he picked the dangerous Klaasen caught in the deep on 20. SRH needs 95 from four overs. SRH: 118/6 in 16 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: SRH lose five wickets Matheesha Pathirana clean bowled Aiden Markram on 32 as SRH lost the fifth wicket. SRH - 95/5. SRH: 53/3, 6 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Deshpande on top Deshpande cannot stop taking wickets at Chepauk as he got the big fishes in Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. SRH 42-3 in 4 overs. SRH: 42/3, 4 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: WICKET Tushar Deshpande gets rid of dangerous Travis Head and Anmolpreet Singh as CSK on top at Chepauk. SRH - 33/2 in 3 overs. CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: SRH to chase 213 12 runs coming off the final over and CSK would go into the dressing room thinking they may have fell short a few runs. SRH bowlers came back strongly in the last couple of overs to stop CSK batters from having a flourishing finish. CSK: 212/3, 20 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: WICKET Agonising for Gaikwad. Falls two short of back-to-back hundreds. Slow length ball bowled in the slot but a spent Gaikwad cannot get any power behind it and holes out in the deep. However, the CSK crowd goes ballistic as they see Dhoni entering the ground. Gaikwad c Nitish Reddy b T Natarajan 98(54) CSK: 200/3, 19.2 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: 200 up for CSK Final sis deliveries remain as Unadkat bowls a superb penultimate over, conceding only eight runs. Could be a match-changing over from him. CSK: 200/2, 19 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: 12 deliveries remain CSK are looking at 220 now, having got their noses ahead in the last 20-odd deliveries. Against a stacked batting lineup of SRH, the hosts would like as many runs on board as possible. CSK: 191/2, 18 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Captain Gaikwad keeps it moving Captain Gaikwad stands up yet again and is nearing his second hundred on the trot. CSK are eyeing that big finish to get over 200. CSK: 159/2, 16 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: WICKET! Low fulltoss on middle and off. Mitchell cannot get under it and scythes the ball straight down the throat of Nitish manning the deep midwicket boundary. Mitchell c Nitish Reddy b Unadkat 52(32) CSK: 134/2, 14 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Fifty up for Mitchell Mitchell gets to his fifty in only 29 balls. The Kiwi batter would be feeling much better after that innings as he had been woefully out of form this season. CSK: 123/1, 13 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Mitchell ups the ante Having got his eyes in, Mitchell has started stroking the white ball alright now. 14 runs coming off Shahbaz's last over as CSK show urgency to get things moving. CSK: 115/1, 12 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Gaikwad-Mitchell stitch partnership Having lost Rahane, Gaikwad and Daryl Mitchell have managed to stitch a little partnership in the middle but the scoreboard is yet to kick into the fifth gear. Meanwhile, Gaikwad brought his half-century, a game after hitting a century against LSG. CSK: 82/1, 9 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Powerplay overs completed The fielding restrictions have been lifted and safe to say, SRH have dominated the proceedings against CSK so far, on their home turf. CSK batters need to show more intent if they are to post anything above 200. CSK: 50/1, 6 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: WICKET! Length ball bowled outside off on the sixth stump. Rahane, stranded on the crease, fetches for it and miscues it straight into the hands of fielder stationed on the midwicket fence. Rahane c Shahbaz Ahmed b Bhuvneshwar 9(12) CSK: 19/1, 3 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Sedate start for CSK Both openers have looked cautious against the SRH bowlers. Rahane has attempted to increase the tempo but appears to be going too hard at the ball. CSK: 13/0, 2 overs CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: We're underway! Ruturaj Gaikwad (RHB) and Ajinkya Rahane (RHB) open the batting for CSK while Bhuvneshwar Kumar shoulders the new ball responsibilities for SRH. CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Playing XI's CSK: Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Daryl Mitchell, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mustafizur Rahman, Matheesha Pathirana SRH: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Nitish Reddy, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins(c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, T Natarajan CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: What do the captains have to say? Pat Cummins (SRH captain): We're going to bowl. Absolutely, you can see why it's pretty loud here. Boys are pretty pumped up. We've got Bhuvi who's a very nice new ball bowler, I just fill in wherever required. We're going with one extra batter, Markande misses out. We've looked to bowl first, maybe dew comes into it later in the evening. Ruturaj Gaikwad: Was hoping to win the toss, nothing we can control much. If we put up runs against them they'll definitely be under pressure. We have just lost those clutch moments in the game, just 2-3 overs while batting when we couldn't capitalise. Even with bowling, we haven't gotten those starts in the powerplay and sometimes when we've got that we haven't been able to finish off well. Overall, we're happy with where we are but we're just looking to win those clutch moments. CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Toss update Toss: SunRisers Hyderabad have won the toss and have opted to field CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Muralitharan blames Indian spinners SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) bowling coach Muttiah Muralitharan has blamed the Indian bowlers for the routine 200+ scores in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Click to read more... CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Probable Playing XI's CSK: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali, MS Dhoni, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mustafizur Rahman, Matheesha Pathirana [Impact sub: Shardul Thakur] SRH: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Aiden Markram, Nitish Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mayank Markande, Jaydev Unadkat [Impact Sub: T Natarajan] CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Head-to-head CSK 14 - 6 SRH; SRH won the last match against CSK by six wickets, chasing a modest target of 166. CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: A quick look at the two squads Chennai Super Kings: Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Daryl Mitchell, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mustafizur Rahman, Matheesha Pathirana, Shardul Thakur, Sameer Rizvi, Shaik Rasheed, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Richard Gleeson, Ajay Jadav Mandal, Prashant Solanki, Mukesh Choudhary, Simarjeet Singh, RS Hangargekar, Maheesh Theekshana, Nishant Sindhu, Aravelly Avanish SunRisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Nitish Reddy, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins(c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Mayank Markande, T Natarajan, Travis Head, Umran Malik, Anmolpreet Singh, Glenn Phillips, Washington Sundar, Mayank Agarwal, Rahul Tripathi, Upendra Yadav, Jhatavedh Subramanyan, Sanvir Singh, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Marco Jansen, Akash Maharaj Singh CSK vs SRH IPL Live Score, Chennai Super Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad: Where do the two teams sit on the points table? SRH currently are placed third on the 10-team points table with five wins and three losses in eight games while CSK find themselves in the lower half with four wins and four losses in eight games played so far.

CSK vs SRH IPL Match Highlights: Chennai beat Hyderabad by 78 runs at Chepauk

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has commented on his relationship with Virat Kohli, saying how media had sensationalised the dynamics between the duo when they had on-field arguments.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has commented on his relationship with Virat Kohli, saying how media had sensationalised the dynamics between the duo when they had on-field arguments. Taking a dig at the media, Gambhir said they had no idea of the nuances and the complex relationship the former Indian teammates had nurtured over the years. "It is all about TRPs. Media has got no clue what kind of a person I am, what kind of a person Virat is. All the media wants to do is create hype. But hype can also be created in a positive way," Gambhir observed, underscoring the impact of media coverage on public opinion. "I absolutely second what Virat said. Logon ka masala nahi mila toh (The gossip bit is over for people). As I said, when two people are mature enough, I don't think so anyone has got any right to interfere between two people's life or their relationships because ultimately, it is between two of them," Gambhir added. Also read | IPL 2024: Virat Kohli says people disappointed after he hugged Gautam Gambhir, Naveen-ul-Haq People are disappointed Gambhir was referring to a recent statement made by Kohli wherein the latter said people were left disappointed after he hugged Naveen-ul-Haq and Gambhir instead of beefing with them at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. "People are disappointed with my behaviour. I hugged Naveen and Gauti bhai also hugged me that day. So they have lost their masala (gossip)," said Kohli at a promotional event. Notably, ahead of RCB's match against KKR, there was a lot of chatter surrounding another round of fight between Kohli and Gambhir. However, both showed great camaraderie and hugged each other after the end of the match which KKR won. Watch | ODI World Cup 2023 - Virat Kohli and Naveen ul Haq close IPL fight with hug during India vs Afghanistan The tussle between Kohli, Gambhir and Naveen had reached a crescendo last year when the latter was in Lucknow Super Giants as part of the backroom staff. After the spat, the three cricketers were handed heavy fines. While Kohli and Gambhir were fined 100 per cent of their match fees, Naveen had to forego 50 per cent of his match fee. IPL also released a statement conveying that Kohli and Gambhir confessed to having committed a Level 2 offence. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Media has got no clue’: Gautam Gambhir on his relationship with Virat Kohli

T20 cricket, or IPL to be precise, has somewhat made a mockery of bowlers, with Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate offering no sympathy to them despite his side suffering a loss against Punjab Kings at home on Friday (April 26).

T20 cricket, or IPL to be precise, has somewhat made a mockery of bowlers, with Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate offering no sympathy to them despite his side suffering a loss against Punjab Kings at home on Friday (April 26). With over 520 runs scored and 42 sixes hit in a game labelled as one of the best in the tournament history, bowlers had nowhere to hide as PBKS chased 262 with eight wickets and over six balls remaining. With IPL 2024 being the season where most 250-plus scores are scored thus far, it’s like a graveyard for the bowlers; however, Ten Doeschate feels instead of crying about this format turning into a batter’s paradise, the bowlers must up their game and be innovative and not think about things not in their hands. Despite his team notching up 261 in the first innings, they suffered a shock defeat, with PBKS’ batters going berserk during the chase. While opener Jonny Bairstow returned to form by hitting a hundred, Shashank Singh continued his impressive run, striking at over 240 while chasing. Prabhsimran Singh was also on song, hitting a fifty, as Punjab completed the highest run chase in T20 cricket history. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Mayank Yadav resumes bowling in nets as he prepares for return, says LSG assistant coach S Sriram "I don't think it augurs well for the contest between bat and ball, but the facts are that it is here for the season," Ten Doeschate said after the game. "There are two ways you can look at it. You can step back and say 'Oh it's unfair, we are bowling machines' or you can say 'We are going to find a way, we are going to be a point of difference compared to other teams', 'we are gonna try new things', 'we are gonna embrace the challenge'. “Yes, it's going to be tough, but you got to find innovative and new ways for the next four weeks at least, it (this season) is going to be there that long, so no point crying about it. “Everything was already in the batter's favour, I feel sorry for the bowlers as it's gone more towards their side now. But those are the facts, the realities. My way to deal with this would be to find a way to land a punch back at the batters,” the assistant coach said. What is a good score? Kolkata has been on the rampage this season, with the side crossing 250 twice, once in Vizag and once against PBKS at home; even though they won the clash against DC, KKR came second against Punjab. Speaking on what should be a good score in IPL 2024, Ten Doeschate said, “What type of score is a good score? 260 has gotta be a good score. We didn't stop scoring boundaries. Sunil and Salt were fantastic; it was nice to see the captain get a bit of rhythm again - probably the biggest positive for us tonight. “We could play on this piece of marble here, and if you give me 260 runs, it should be enough. There is a danger of aiming too high. We need to aim for at least 240 if the wicket is as good as this,” he added.

IPL 2024: KKR’s Ten Doeschate offers no sympathy to bowlers, says ‘no point crying about it, be innovative’

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are boosted by the news of their rookie seamer Mayank Yadav returning to bowling in the nets ahead of the side’s game against Rajasthan Royals at home on Saturday (April 27) in IPL 2024.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are boosted by the news of their rookie seamer Mayank Yadav returning to bowling in the nets ahead of the side’s game against Rajasthan Royals at home on Saturday (April 27) in IPL 2024. LSG’s assistant coach, S Sriram, confirmed the news on the match eve, saying Mayank is ‘closer’ to regaining full fitness and returning to the playing XI. Sriram says the team is yet to take a call on Mayank’s selection against Rajasthan, adding they will monitor his situation in the lead-up to the marquee clash. "He's bowling today in the nets," Sriram said on the eve of LSG's match against Rajasthan Royals. "So, we'll find out how he pulls up after today, he's pretty close, so yes, hopefully, fingers crossed." ALSO READ: IPL 2024: ‘Cricket’s turning into baseball’ – Sam Curran reflects on PBKS’ record chase at Eden Gardens LSG had picked Mayank during the IPL 2022 auction, but after tearing his hamstring, the lanky seamer didn’t play the last season. In IPL 2024, Mayank debuted in LSG’s second game against Punjab Kings at the Ekana Stadium, winning the Player of the Match award for his spell of three for 27. Although his wicket-taking line and length on his IPL debut earned him cheers, Mayank clocking over 150 kmph regularly made headlines worldwide. Mayank picked the MOM in this second match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, returning with three wickets. However, in his third game against the Gujarat Titans, Mayank pulled up after bowling one over inside the powerplay and has been away since. ‘He’s a grounded person’ Having worked with Mayank for the past month or so, Sriram said the Delhi lad is a grounded person, who knows to look after himself. The assistant coach continued that he was impressed with Mayank’s line and length. "I think he's a pretty grounded person, I've just worked with him for the last month or so," Sriram said. "He seems very mature, and he knows his body well, which is very good for a young rookie fast bowler. I think coming from Delhi he has that cricket culture with him. He knows how to look after himself, he has a good cricketing sense in terms of the areas he bowls in, and his execution has been very good. "More than the pace that he's provided I think his execution and the lengths that he's hit have been standout for me. The number 155 is a by-product of his rhythm, and the run-up speed and the arm speed, but the accuracy with which he's bowled has stood out, and for me, that is critical,” the assistant coach continued.

IPL 2024: Mayank Yadav resumes bowling in nets as he prepares for return, says LSG assistant coach S Sriram

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Rajat Patidar displayed shotmaking of the highest order on Thursday (Apr 25) by smashing&nbsp;SunRisers Hyderabad's (SRH) Mayank Markande for four consecutive sixes during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match. Patidar shrugged off his poor form and enthralled the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium crowd that had considerable RCB support.&nbsp;

Patidar's liftoff came in the 11th over of the innings when Markande came to bowl his third over. Having&nbsp;conceded only 15 runs and picked Will Jacks' wicket, Markande was carted over the long off boundary for an 86m maximum on the second ball of the over. From thereon, it was a procession as Patidar pummeled everything bowled in his arc.&nbsp;

In the end, Markande conceded 27 runs in the over, providing RCB the much-needed momentum. Having got the rhythm, Patidar continued the onslaught and brought his fifty in only 19 deliveries, becoming the second-fastest RCB batter to achieve the feat.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Rajat Patidar taking the attack to Mayank Markande 💥<a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> 142/4 after 15 overs 
 
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-delhi-capitals-rope-in-afghanistans-gulbadin-naib-to-replace-injured-mitchell-marsh-714958">Also read | IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals rope in Afghanistan's Gulbadin Naib to replace injured Mitchell Marsh</a>

<h2>Faf opts to bat first&nbsp;</h2>

Having won the toss, RCB captain Faf du Plessis opted to bat first and put up a strong total against the stacked SRH bowling.&nbsp;

"We are gonna bat first. We feel like our fans go with us everywhere. These boys (SRH) have been playing some amazing cricket, especially batting. Hopefully we can put some scoreboard pressure on them," said du Plessis.&nbsp;

The decision paid off as RCB finished with 206 on board as both Virat Kohli and Patidar hit half-centuries. Useful contributions came from the skipper himself as well as All-rounder Cameron Green.&nbsp;

Fastest 50s for RCB in IPL by balls faced

17 - Chris Gayle vs PWI Bengaluru 2013

19 - Robin Uthappa vs KXIP Bengaluru 2010

19 - Rajat Patidar vs SRH Hyderabad 2024

21 - AB de Villiers vs RR Jaipur 2012

21 - Rajat Patidar vs KKR Kolkata 2024

Playing XI's:&nbsp;

SunRisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Nitish Reddy, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins (c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Mayank Markande, T Natarajan

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Will Jacks, Rajat Patidar, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, Yash Dayal

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Rajat Patidar displayed shotmaking of the highest order on Thursday (Apr 25) by smashing SunRisers Hyderabad's (SRH) Mayank Markande for four consecutive sixes during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Rajat Patidar displayed shotmaking of the highest order on Thursday (Apr 25) by smashing SunRisers Hyderabad's (SRH) Mayank Markande for four consecutive sixes during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match. Patidar shrugged off his poor form and enthralled the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium crowd that had considerable RCB support. Patidar's liftoff came in the 11th over of the innings when Markande came to bowl his third over. Having conceded only 15 runs and picked Will Jacks' wicket, Markande was carted over the long off boundary for an 86m maximum on the second ball of the over. From thereon, it was a procession as Patidar pummeled everything bowled in his arc. In the end, Markande conceded 27 runs in the over, providing RCB the much-needed momentum. Having got the rhythm, Patidar continued the onslaught and brought his fifty in only 19 deliveries, becoming the second-fastest RCB batter to achieve the feat. I.C.Y.M.I! Rajat Patidar taking the attack to Mayank Markande 💥@RCBTweets 142/4 after 15 overs Watch the match LIVE on @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia 💻📱#TATAIPL | #SRHvRCB pic.twitter.com/xiDvZavpTA — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 25, 2024 × Also read | IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals rope in Afghanistan's Gulbadin Naib to replace injured Mitchell Marsh Faf opts to bat first Having won the toss, RCB captain Faf du Plessis opted to bat first and put up a strong total against the stacked SRH bowling. "We are gonna bat first. We feel like our fans go with us everywhere. These boys (SRH) have been playing some amazing cricket, especially batting. Hopefully we can put some scoreboard pressure on them," said du Plessis. The decision paid off as RCB finished with 206 on board as both Virat Kohli and Patidar hit half-centuries. Useful contributions came from the skipper himself as well as All-rounder Cameron Green. Fastest 50s for RCB in IPL by balls faced 17 - Chris Gayle vs PWI Bengaluru 2013 19 - Robin Uthappa vs KXIP Bengaluru 2010 19 - Rajat Patidar vs SRH Hyderabad 2024 21 - AB de Villiers vs RR Jaipur 2012 21 - Rajat Patidar vs KKR Kolkata 2024 Playing XI's: SunRisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Nitish Reddy, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pat Cummins (c), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Mayank Markande, T Natarajan Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Will Jacks, Rajat Patidar, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, Yash Dayal

IPL 2024, SRH vs RCB: VIDEO | 6,6,6,6 - Rajat Patidar hits Mayank Markande for four consecutive sixes

Former Indian cricketer and batting great Virender Sehwag made a bizarre remark&nbsp;on why Indian cricketers don’t play in franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide outside of IPL. Although it’s mainly because of the clause in players’ central contract with BCCI that restricts them from playing in leagues besides the country’s own Indian Premier League, Sehwag said it’s because Indian cricketers are rich and hence don’t go to other countries to play in their leagues which are not as lucrative.

Speaking on the Club Prairie Fire podcast on YouTube, Sehwag, while replying to Adam Gilchrist’s query on whether Indian cricketers will play in leagues outside of the IPL anytime sooner, said in jest, “No! Why? No need. We are rich people; we don’t go to poor countries.”

Sehwag being Sehwag did not stop there, and continued by quoting an example, saying when he was out of the Indian Team, the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia offered him a chance to play in their league, but he refused the offer. The attacking opener revealed the amount (around $100,000) he was offered was too less and that he spent that much money on his holidays.

Sehwag went one step ahead, adding he once spent $100,000 on a dinner.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-wildcard-entry-former-indian-cricketers-want-ms-dhoni-in-india-t20-world-cup-squad-714549">'A wildcard entry': Former Indian cricketers want MS Dhoni in India T20 World Cup squad</a>

“I still remember that when I retired from the Indian team, not retired but dropped and was playing IPL, I received an offer to participate in Big Bash. I said okay, how much money are you offering? They said some $100,000. I replied I spend that much money on my holidays,” Sehwag said.

Continuing on the same lines, Sehwag said that he would have played had those leagues offered him millions instead of what was presented. The former Indian opener said,&nbsp;“Going out for one month playing Big Bash or The Hundred, where you get only that $100,000, maybe $200,000. If you talk about millions, yes, then I’m interested, otherwise no.”

Sehwag didn’t stop there, quoting another example of what happened when Sky Sports (in England) offered him a chance to join their panel, only for the broadcaster to back out after hearing Sehwag’s remuneration.

“So once, I got a call from Sky Sports that ‘We’ll love to have you in our panel.’ I said, ‘You can’t afford me’. But they said, ‘No, give me your price’. I said, ‘You can’t afford me, but they said, ‘Please give us the price’. Then I said okay, ‘£10,000 a day’, and they said, ‘Yes, you’re right we can’t,” Sehwag said.

Former Indian cricketer and batting great Virender Sehwag made a bizarre remark on why Indian cricketers don’t play in franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide outside of IPL.

Former Indian cricketer and batting great Virender Sehwag made a bizarre remark on why Indian cricketers don’t play in franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide outside of IPL. Although it’s mainly because of the clause in players’ central contract with BCCI that restricts them from playing in leagues besides the country’s own Indian Premier League, Sehwag said it’s because Indian cricketers are rich and hence don’t go to other countries to play in their leagues which are not as lucrative. Speaking on the Club Prairie Fire podcast on YouTube, Sehwag, while replying to Adam Gilchrist’s query on whether Indian cricketers will play in leagues outside of the IPL anytime sooner, said in jest, “No! Why? No need. We are rich people; we don’t go to poor countries.” Sehwag being Sehwag did not stop there, and continued by quoting an example, saying when he was out of the Indian Team, the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia offered him a chance to play in their league, but he refused the offer. The attacking opener revealed the amount (around $100,000) he was offered was too less and that he spent that much money on his holidays. Sehwag went one step ahead, adding he once spent $100,000 on a dinner. ALSO READ: 'A wildcard entry': Former Indian cricketers want MS Dhoni in India T20 World Cup squad “I still remember that when I retired from the Indian team, not retired but dropped and was playing IPL, I received an offer to participate in Big Bash. I said okay, how much money are you offering? They said some $100,000. I replied I spend that much money on my holidays,” Sehwag said. Continuing on the same lines, Sehwag said that he would have played had those leagues offered him millions instead of what was presented. The former Indian opener said, “Going out for one month playing Big Bash or The Hundred, where you get only that $100,000, maybe $200,000. If you talk about millions, yes, then I’m interested, otherwise no.” Sehwag didn’t stop there, quoting another example of what happened when Sky Sports (in England) offered him a chance to join their panel, only for the broadcaster to back out after hearing Sehwag’s remuneration. “So once, I got a call from Sky Sports that ‘We’ll love to have you in our panel.’ I said, ‘You can’t afford me’. But they said, ‘No, give me your price’. I said, ‘You can’t afford me, but they said, ‘Please give us the price’. Then I said okay, ‘£10,000 a day’, and they said, ‘Yes, you’re right we can’t,” Sehwag said.

'We don’t go to poor countries’ – Sehwag's bizarre remark on Indians not playing in leagues outside of IPL

Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has slammed Chennai Super Kings (CSK)&nbsp;captain Ruturaj Gaikwad for dropping Rachin Ravindra during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Lucknow Super Giants at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday (Apr 23).&nbsp;

Sehwag said Gaikwad was deviating from CSK's core philosophy of giving the long rope to players by making constant changes to the squad composition.&nbsp;

“They aren't playing bad, but this is the first time I have seen Chennai making constant changes. Gaikwad was opening, then Rahane was sent top of the order, now Gaikwad is back as opener and today Rachin Ravindra has been given a break. These are not good signs for CSK," said Sehwag on Cricbuzz.

Sehwag said the Kiwi batter was not even batting poorly which warranted exclusion from the squad.&nbsp;

"Every time they have done that, they failed to make the playoffs. It's not that Rachin batted horribly so far, couple of his innings were good. Usually, CSK stick with the players," said the ex-Indian opener.&nbsp;

"But first they benched Daryl Mitchell, now Rachin, it could be someone else in the next game. These are not good changes. And these are not tactical changes. I feel CSK look in bit of a haste in making these changes in the last few matches."

CSK's success over the years in the tournament has been built on the belief that players should be given a consistent run to show their true potential. Head coach Stephen Fleming and former captain MS Dhoni instilled the philosophy that has served the franchise well so far, as the five trophies show.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ex-rcb-coach-mike-hesson-reveals-why-yuzvendra-chahal-was-not-picked-in-auction-714233">Also read |&nbsp;IPL 2024: Ex-RCB coach Mike Hesson reveals why Yuzvendra Chahal was not picked in auction</a>

<h2>CSK vs LSG</h2>

Ruturaj lost the toss yet again as LSG captain KL Rahul opted to bowl first. Rahane opened the batting alongside Gaikwad but the former could not get going and lost to the guile of Matt Henry who bowled excellent lines to set him up.&nbsp;

Mitchell's poor form with the bat continued as he played a laborious 10-ball 11-run innings before being dismissed by Yash Thakur. CSK management persisted with Ravindra Jadeja on the no. 4 spot but the southpaw could not impose himself on the game and departed in the 12th over.&nbsp;

While others struggled, Gaikwad kept hold of one end and smashed his second IPL century, allowing CSK to set the platform for a mega finish.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Playing XI's:

Chennai Super Kings: Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Daryl Mitchell, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mustafizur Rahman, Matheesha Pathirana

Lucknow Super Giants: Quinton de Kock, KL Rahul(w/c), Marcus Stoinis, Deepak Hooda, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Matt Henry, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohsin Khan, Yash Thakur

Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has slammed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad for dropping Rachin Ravindra during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Lucknow Super Giants at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday (Apr 23).

Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has slammed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad for dropping Rachin Ravindra during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Lucknow Super Giants at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday (Apr 23). Sehwag said Gaikwad was deviating from CSK's core philosophy of giving the long rope to players by making constant changes to the squad composition. “They aren't playing bad, but this is the first time I have seen Chennai making constant changes. Gaikwad was opening, then Rahane was sent top of the order, now Gaikwad is back as opener and today Rachin Ravindra has been given a break. These are not good signs for CSK," said Sehwag on Cricbuzz. Sehwag said the Kiwi batter was not even batting poorly which warranted exclusion from the squad. "Every time they have done that, they failed to make the playoffs. It's not that Rachin batted horribly so far, couple of his innings were good. Usually, CSK stick with the players," said the ex-Indian opener. "But first they benched Daryl Mitchell, now Rachin, it could be someone else in the next game. These are not good changes. And these are not tactical changes. I feel CSK look in bit of a haste in making these changes in the last few matches." CSK's success over the years in the tournament has been built on the belief that players should be given a consistent run to show their true potential. Head coach Stephen Fleming and former captain MS Dhoni instilled the philosophy that has served the franchise well so far, as the five trophies show. Also read | IPL 2024: Ex-RCB coach Mike Hesson reveals why Yuzvendra Chahal was not picked in auction CSK vs LSG Ruturaj lost the toss yet again as LSG captain KL Rahul opted to bowl first. Rahane opened the batting alongside Gaikwad but the former could not get going and lost to the guile of Matt Henry who bowled excellent lines to set him up. Mitchell's poor form with the bat continued as he played a laborious 10-ball 11-run innings before being dismissed by Yash Thakur. CSK management persisted with Ravindra Jadeja on the no. 4 spot but the southpaw could not impose himself on the game and departed in the 12th over. While others struggled, Gaikwad kept hold of one end and smashed his second IPL century, allowing CSK to set the platform for a mega finish. Playing XI's: Chennai Super Kings: Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Daryl Mitchell, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni(w), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mustafizur Rahman, Matheesha Pathirana Lucknow Super Giants: Quinton de Kock, KL Rahul(w/c), Marcus Stoinis, Deepak Hooda, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Matt Henry, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohsin Khan, Yash Thakur

IPL 2024: ‘These are not good signs,’ Sehwag blasts CSK for dropping Rachin Ravindra