Sandeep Sharma is no stranger to the Indian Premier League (IPL). The medium pacer from Punjab made his debut in 2013 and during his stints with Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, he picked up 112 wickets in the competition. It was sort of a homecoming for Sandeep as he was picked by Punjab Kings ahead of 2022 season and currently, he is one of the senior campaigners in the side.<o:p></o:p>

The Mayank Agarwal-led side started the tournament on a positive note as they chased down a target of 206 runs to clinch the win against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Speaking exclusively to WION, Sandeep opened up about the game and the feeling in the dressing room after the win.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/universe-boss-show-not-over-yet-chris-gayle-kicks-off-preparations-for-ipl-2023-see-pic-467065" hreflang="en">Universe Boss' show not over yet! Chris Gayle kicks off preparations for IPL 2023 - see pic</a>

&nbsp;“It is always a good feeling to win the first game of the tournament and we want to carry forward that momentum. Chasing 200 runs is very difficult but our batting was able to pull it off. It was a very positive result and the entire dressing room is extremely happy with what we were able to achieve.”<o:p></o:p>

The one thing that caught the attention of most experts during the match was the number of extras conceded by both sides. A total of 45 extras was conceded during the face-off – an IPL record – including 33 wides (12 from Punjab bowlers).&nbsp; <o:p></o:p>

In this regard, Sandeep explained dew as a factor but believes that wides were mainly conceded due to the bowlers’ reluctance to bowl in the batter's hitting arc.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harshal-patel-equals-ipl-record-with-back-to-back-maiden-overs-against-kolkata-knight-riders-466982" hreflang="en">Harshal Patel equals IPL record with back-to-back maiden overs against Kolkata Knight Riders</a>

“The conditions were okay and it was mainly a batting wicket. I feel the bowlers did not want to come into the batsman’s arc and as they wanted to stay away from that line, they ended up bowling wide. Dew was also there and in coming games, it will become a factor,” the 28-year-old said.<o:p></o:p>

This year’s IPL will be played in just four venues around Maharashtra and the constant fixtures can result in pitches slowing down gradually towards the end of the tournament. However, Sandeep said that he is hoping for that to happen and only the Pune pitch can see big changes in the future.<o:p></o:p>

“I am not hoping for that as all the venues have 4-5 pitches and they will have 3-4 games each. Pitches in Maharashtra are very good and I think they will be able to sustain 4 games. As I said, dew will also play a part and once dew sets in, the ball will not move even if the wicket is slow. Maybe the pitches will slow down a little but the impact will not be that much.”

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-cristiano-ronaldo-of-cricket-punjab-kings-star-lavishes-praise-on-former-rcb-skipper-466978" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli is Cristiano Ronaldo of cricket: Punjab Kings star lavishes praise on former RCB skipper</a>

“Maybe the Pune wicket can be different as dew is not a factor that much and the pitches are black soil pitches. So that is the only place where we can see a bit of change in conditions,” he added.<o:p></o:p>

Over the years, Sandeep has bowled to a number of world-class batsmen in the tournament and when asked about his toughest challenges, he was quick to name three seasoned veterans.<o:p></o:p>

“With the new ball, Suresh Raina was the most challenging batsman for me. With the old ball, I will have to say MS Dhoni and AB de Villiers as they are both amazing finishers,” Sandeep concluded.<o:p></o:p>

Sandeep Sharma is no stranger to the Indian Premier League (IPL). The medium pacer from Punjab made his debut in 2013 and during his stints with Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, he picked up 112 wickets in the competition.

Sandeep Sharma is no stranger to the Indian Premier League (IPL). The medium pacer from Punjab made his debut in 2013 and during his stints with Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, he picked up 112 wickets in the competition. It was sort of a homecoming for Sandeep as he was picked by Punjab Kings ahead of 2022 season and currently, he is one of the senior campaigners in the side. The Mayank Agarwal-led side started the tournament on a positive note as they chased down a target of 206 runs to clinch the win against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Speaking exclusively to WION, Sandeep opened up about the game and the feeling in the dressing room after the win. Also read | Universe Boss' show not over yet! Chris Gayle kicks off preparations for IPL 2023 - see pic “It is always a good feeling to win the first game of the tournament and we want to carry forward that momentum. Chasing 200 runs is very difficult but our batting was able to pull it off. It was a very positive result and the entire dressing room is extremely happy with what we were able to achieve.” The one thing that caught the attention of most experts during the match was the number of extras conceded by both sides. A total of 45 extras was conceded during the face-off – an IPL record – including 33 wides (12 from Punjab bowlers). In this regard, Sandeep explained dew as a factor but believes that wides were mainly conceded due to the bowlers’ reluctance to bowl in the batter's hitting arc. Also read | Harshal Patel equals IPL record with back-to-back maiden overs against Kolkata Knight Riders “The conditions were okay and it was mainly a batting wicket. I feel the bowlers did not want to come into the batsman’s arc and as they wanted to stay away from that line, they ended up bowling wide. Dew was also there and in coming games, it will become a factor,” the 28-year-old said. This year’s IPL will be played in just four venues around Maharashtra and the constant fixtures can result in pitches slowing down gradually towards the end of the tournament. However, Sandeep said that he is hoping for that to happen and only the Pune pitch can see big changes in the future. “I am not hoping for that as all the venues have 4-5 pitches and they will have 3-4 games each. Pitches in Maharashtra are very good and I think they will be able to sustain 4 games. As I said, dew will also play a part and once dew sets in, the ball will not move even if the wicket is slow. Maybe the pitches will slow down a little but the impact will not be that much.” Also read | Virat Kohli is Cristiano Ronaldo of cricket: Punjab Kings star lavishes praise on former RCB skipper “Maybe the Pune wicket can be different as dew is not a factor that much and the pitches are black soil pitches. So that is the only place where we can see a bit of change in conditions,” he added. Over the years, Sandeep has bowled to a number of world-class batsmen in the tournament and when asked about his toughest challenges, he was quick to name three seasoned veterans. “With the new ball, Suresh Raina was the most challenging batsman for me. With the old ball, I will have to say MS Dhoni and AB de Villiers as they are both amazing finishers,” Sandeep concluded.

EXCLUSIVE: Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni and AB de Villiers were the most challenging to bowl to, says Sandeep Sharma

MS Dhoni is on the cusp of joining an elite list as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

Dhoni is just 15 runs away from joining Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina and Robin Uthappa in the list of Indian cricketers who have completed 7000 runs in T20s. Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Kohli leads the list with 10,326 runs in the shortest format of the sport followed by Rohit (9936 runs) and Punjab Kings opener Dhawan with 8818 runs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-suresh-raina-ms-dhoni-and-ab-de-villiers-were-the-most-challenging-to-bowl-to-says-sandeep-sharma-467156" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Raina, Dhoni &amp; ABD were the toughest to bowl to - Sandeep Sharma</a>

The two other names in the list are – former CSK batsman Suresh Raina who has 8654 runs under his belt and Dhoni’s current teammate Robin Uthappa who has scored 7070 runs in his T20 career.<o:p></o:p>

Dhoni was the top-scorer for CSK in their season opener against Kolkata Knight Riders as he scored his first half-century in almost three years to steady the innings after an early collapse. However, that was not enough as KKR marched on to a five-wicket victory thanks to Ajinkya Rahane’s batting.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/universe-boss-show-not-over-yet-chris-gayle-kicks-off-preparations-for-ipl-2023-see-pic-467065" hreflang="en">Universe Boss' show not over yet! Gayle kicks off preparations for IPL 2023</a>

During the encounter, Dhoni also became the oldest cricketer to score an IPL fifty surpassing Rahul Dravid’s record when he scored 65 off 51 deliveries against Delhi Daredevils in 2013.<o:p></o:p>

Oldest Indian to score an IPL fifty:<o:p></o:p>

40y 262d - MS Dhoni v KKR, 2022<o:p></o:p>

40y 116d - Rahul Dravid v DC, 2013<o:p></o:p>

39y 362d - Sachin Tendulkar v DC, 2013<o:p></o:p>

Dhoni stepped down as CSK skipper ahead of IPL 2022 and passed the baton on Ravindra Jadeja.<o:p></o:p>

MS Dhoni is on the cusp of joining an elite list as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Thursday.

MS Dhoni is on the cusp of joining an elite list as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Thursday. Dhoni is just 15 runs away from joining Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina and Robin Uthappa in the list of Indian cricketers who have completed 7000 runs in T20s. Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Kohli leads the list with 10,326 runs in the shortest format of the sport followed by Rohit (9936 runs) and Punjab Kings opener Dhawan with 8818 runs. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Raina, Dhoni & ABD were the toughest to bowl to - Sandeep Sharma The two other names in the list are – former CSK batsman Suresh Raina who has 8654 runs under his belt and Dhoni’s current teammate Robin Uthappa who has scored 7070 runs in his T20 career. Dhoni was the top-scorer for CSK in their season opener against Kolkata Knight Riders as he scored his first half-century in almost three years to steady the innings after an early collapse. However, that was not enough as KKR marched on to a five-wicket victory thanks to Ajinkya Rahane’s batting. Also read | Universe Boss' show not over yet! Gayle kicks off preparations for IPL 2023 During the encounter, Dhoni also became the oldest cricketer to score an IPL fifty surpassing Rahul Dravid’s record when he scored 65 off 51 deliveries against Delhi Daredevils in 2013. Oldest Indian to score an IPL fifty: 40y 262d - MS Dhoni v KKR, 2022 40y 116d - Rahul Dravid v DC, 2013 39y 362d - Sachin Tendulkar v DC, 2013 Dhoni stepped down as CSK skipper ahead of IPL 2022 and passed the baton on Ravindra Jadeja.

IPL 2022: MS Dhoni on cusp of joining Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan in T20 elite list

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden believes that Chennai Super Kings can retain the Indian Premier League (IPL) title despite losing their first game of the season against Kolkata Knight Riders.<o:p></o:p>

The Ravindra Jadeja-led side did not have much to show in their opening encounter as they slumped to a five-wicket loss after a rare batting collapse. MS Dhoni was the sole bright spot in the batting as he scored his first IPL half century in nearly three years. Dwayne Bravo led the fightback for CSK with three wickets but it was not enough as Ajinkya Rahane guided KKR to a well- deserved victory.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-suresh-raina-ms-dhoni-and-ab-de-villiers-were-the-most-challenging-to-bowl-to-says-sandeep-sharma-467156" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Raina, Dhoni &amp; ABD were the toughest to bowl to - Sandeep Sharma</a>

However, Hayden said that there is a lot of experience in the side and with England all-rounder Moeen Ali joining the side, the Chennai side have it in them to defend their IPL crown.<o:p></o:p>

During an episode of 'Cricket Live' on Star Sports, Matthew Hayden said, "CSK will not be disheartened with the loss in their opening game against KKR. There were plenty of positives for the Ravindra Jadeja-led side. Their top-order saw a rare batting collapse in the first game but there is a lot of experience in the side and I am sure they will come back stronger in the next game."

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-lsg-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-lucknow-super-giants-match-467080" hreflang="en">IPL 2022; Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants match?</a>

"They missed Moeen Ali in the tournament opener and he will be available for selection in the next match. CSK have it in them to pull it off and that makes them a dangerous side," he added.<o:p></o:p>

CSK will face Lucknow Super Giants in their second IPL 2022 clash on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden believes that Chennai Super Kings can retain the Indian Premier League (IPL) title despite losing their first game of the season against Kolkata Knight Riders.

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden believes that Chennai Super Kings can retain the Indian Premier League (IPL) title despite losing their first game of the season against Kolkata Knight Riders. The Ravindra Jadeja-led side did not have much to show in their opening encounter as they slumped to a five-wicket loss after a rare batting collapse. MS Dhoni was the sole bright spot in the batting as he scored his first IPL half century in nearly three years. Dwayne Bravo led the fightback for CSK with three wickets but it was not enough as Ajinkya Rahane guided KKR to a well- deserved victory. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Raina, Dhoni & ABD were the toughest to bowl to - Sandeep Sharma However, Hayden said that there is a lot of experience in the side and with England all-rounder Moeen Ali joining the side, the Chennai side have it in them to defend their IPL crown. During an episode of 'Cricket Live' on Star Sports, Matthew Hayden said, "CSK will not be disheartened with the loss in their opening game against KKR. There were plenty of positives for the Ravindra Jadeja-led side. Their top-order saw a rare batting collapse in the first game but there is a lot of experience in the side and I am sure they will come back stronger in the next game." Also read | IPL 2022; Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants match? "They missed Moeen Ali in the tournament opener and he will be available for selection in the next match. CSK have it in them to pull it off and that makes them a dangerous side," he added. CSK will face Lucknow Super Giants in their second IPL 2022 clash on Thursday.

IPL 2022: Can Chennai Super Kings defend their title this year? Matthew Hayden has his say

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) went past Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a thrilling match 6 of the IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (March 30), at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai. Chasing a paltry 129, RCB were made to work hard for their runs before Shahbaz Ahmed's 20-ball 27 and finishing knocks from Harshal Patel-Dinesh Karthik propelled the side home.

Being asked to bat first, KKR only managed 128 all-out in 18.5 overs as Wanindu Hasarange's 4 for&nbsp;20, Akash Deep's 3 for 45 and Harshal Patel's 2 for 11 did the trick for Bengaluru. In reply, RCB lost big guns such as skipper Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli early in the run-chase before Shahbaz's vital knock and DK-Harshal's boundaries took RCB to their maiden win of the season. After the game, Faf lavished huge praise on Karthik and compared his finishing skills to Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s former skipper MS Dhoni.

The RCB skipper said at the post-match presentation, "The runs were never a problem. We just needed to have wickets in hand. DK is as close as it gets to MS Dhoni when it comes to being ice cool. I rely on other people for help. We have great people in the camp."

Du Plessis added, "Close small margins game are very important at the start. Small score, we just tried to be positive but very good bowling from their seamers. The ball swung a little more earlier but today there was seam and bounce. Two three days ago, it was 200 and today it was 130. We would like to be more convincing."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-just-rcb-being-rcb-fans-hilariously-troll-faf-du-plessis-cos-comical-usage-of-drs-vs-kkr-467144">IPL 2022: 'Just RCB being RCB' - Fans hilariously troll Faf du Plessis &amp; Co.'s comical usage of DRS vs KKR</a>

After two games, DK has been on a roll. He is yet to be dismissed in the 15th season and has played two gem of an innings, 32* (14) versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) followed by a match-winning 7-ball 14 not out. He has a strike-rate of&nbsp;219.04, including 4 fours and an equal number of sixes. He will be eager to carry on in a similar stread and make a case for selection in India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) went past Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a thrilling match 6 of the IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (March 30), at the Dr.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) went past Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a thrilling match 6 of the IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (March 30), at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai. Chasing a paltry 129, RCB were made to work hard for their runs before Shahbaz Ahmed's 20-ball 27 and finishing knocks from Harshal Patel-Dinesh Karthik propelled the side home. Being asked to bat first, KKR only managed 128 all-out in 18.5 overs as Wanindu Hasarange's 4 for 20, Akash Deep's 3 for 45 and Harshal Patel's 2 for 11 did the trick for Bengaluru. In reply, RCB lost big guns such as skipper Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli early in the run-chase before Shahbaz's vital knock and DK-Harshal's boundaries took RCB to their maiden win of the season. After the game, Faf lavished huge praise on Karthik and compared his finishing skills to Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s former skipper MS Dhoni. The RCB skipper said at the post-match presentation, "The runs were never a problem. We just needed to have wickets in hand. DK is as close as it gets to MS Dhoni when it comes to being ice cool. I rely on other people for help. We have great people in the camp." Du Plessis added, "Close small margins game are very important at the start. Small score, we just tried to be positive but very good bowling from their seamers. The ball swung a little more earlier but today there was seam and bounce. Two three days ago, it was 200 and today it was 130. We would like to be more convincing." ALSO READ | IPL 2022: 'Just RCB being RCB' - Fans hilariously troll Faf du Plessis & Co.'s comical usage of DRS vs KKR After two games, DK has been on a roll. He is yet to be dismissed in the 15th season and has played two gem of an innings, 32* (14) versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) followed by a match-winning 7-ball 14 not out. He has a strike-rate of 219.04, including 4 fours and an equal number of sixes. He will be eager to carry on in a similar stread and make a case for selection in India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

Dinesh Karthik is as close as it gets to MS Dhoni: Faf du Plessis lauds RCB's finisher after KKR win

Match 7 of the ongoing IPL 2022 edition will see the defending champions and four-time winners Ravindra Jadeja-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with one of the new entrants, i.e. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday evening (March 31).

Both sides are coming into this match after failing to get off the mark in their respective season-openers. Talking about the Chennai camp, the Yellow Army never came to their very best in the opening game of the season, where they went down to the two-time winners and last year's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on March 26.

Being asked to bat first, CSK were rusty from the word go. The likes of Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad fell flat whereas Robin Uthappa and Ambati Rayudu departed after settling in. MS Dhoni's 38-ball 50* and Jadeja's 28-ball 26 propelled CSK to 131-5. In reply, their bowlers did a decent job of stretching the game till the penultimate over, however, they lost by six wickets.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-lsg-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-lucknow-super-giants-match-467080">CSK vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants match?</a>

Predicting CSK's XI for LSG face-off

By know, everyone knows that Chennai isn't a team that presses the panic button after one bad game. They are expected to follow the same template of backing their players by giving them a long rope before making wholesome changes. They will be desperate to get their first win of the season, however, they are likely to go ahead with only one change.

Moeen Ali, last year's star for CSK, is expected to walk into the playing XI&nbsp;at the expense of Kiwi spin-bowling all-rounder Mitchell Santner. It will further bolster their batting line-up and might tempt their big guns to play more freely than they did versus KKR. While Shivam Dube also has strong competition from U-19 star&nbsp;Rajvardhan Hangargekar, however, the former is likely to be persisted for now.

Predicted CSK XI for Lucknow tie: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali, Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Dwayne Bravo, Shivam Dube, Adam Milne, Tushar Deshpande

Match 7 of the ongoing IPL 2022 edition will see the defending champions and four-time winners Ravindra Jadeja-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with one of the new entrants, i.

Match 7 of the ongoing IPL 2022 edition will see the defending champions and four-time winners Ravindra Jadeja-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with one of the new entrants, i.e. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday evening (March 31). Both sides are coming into this match after failing to get off the mark in their respective season-openers. Talking about the Chennai camp, the Yellow Army never came to their very best in the opening game of the season, where they went down to the two-time winners and last year's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on March 26. Being asked to bat first, CSK were rusty from the word go. The likes of Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad fell flat whereas Robin Uthappa and Ambati Rayudu departed after settling in. MS Dhoni's 38-ball 50* and Jadeja's 28-ball 26 propelled CSK to 131-5. In reply, their bowlers did a decent job of stretching the game till the penultimate over, however, they lost by six wickets. ALSO READ | CSK vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants match? Predicting CSK's XI for LSG face-off By know, everyone knows that Chennai isn't a team that presses the panic button after one bad game. They are expected to follow the same template of backing their players by giving them a long rope before making wholesome changes. They will be desperate to get their first win of the season, however, they are likely to go ahead with only one change. Moeen Ali, last year's star for CSK, is expected to walk into the playing XI at the expense of Kiwi spin-bowling all-rounder Mitchell Santner. It will further bolster their batting line-up and might tempt their big guns to play more freely than they did versus KKR. While Shivam Dube also has strong competition from U-19 star Rajvardhan Hangargekar, however, the former is likely to be persisted for now. Predicted CSK XI for Lucknow tie: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali, Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Dwayne Bravo, Shivam Dube, Adam Milne, Tushar Deshpande

IPL 2022: Moeen to replace Santner? Predicting Ravindra Jadeja-led CSK's playing XI for Lucknow tie

The cricketing action will continue to take place in IPL 2022 as match 7 of the 15th edition will see Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the debutant team&nbsp;Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday evening (March 31) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai.&nbsp;

Both sides are coming to this encounter with a defeat in their respective season-openers. Talking about the defending champions CSK, the Ravindra Jadeja-led Men in Yellow were a pale shadow of themselves as they were brushed aside by KKR's clinical display in the opening game&nbsp;at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Being asked to bat first, CSK managed a paltry 131 for 5 riding on former skipper Dhoni's 50* (38) and Ravi Jadeja's uninspiring 28-ball 26. In reply, KKR closed the run-chase in the penultimate over as the Chennai bowlers did fairly well in not leaking runs at will. Nonetheless, they also didn't apply much pressure with&nbsp;wicket-taking deliveries at regular intervals.

On the other hand, the KL Rahul-led Lucknow franchise faced Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans (GT), at the same venue on Monday (March 28). In a hard-fought match, Lucknow fought well courtesy a late surge from their lower-order and some tight bowling, however, they came second as they lost by five wickets in defence of 159. Thus, both Chennai and Lucknow will be desperate to avoid two successive losses at the beginning of the new season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-ipl-2022-points-table-after-kolkata-knigt-riders-vs-royal-challengers-bangalore-game-467009">Updated IPL 2022 points table after Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore game</a>

Match prediction for CSK vs LSG clash:&nbsp;So far, only one game has been held at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai this season. It was a 170-plus scoring affair, which went down to the wire. Expect a similar flat track where spinners will have a role to play along with some dew.&nbsp;Both sides will aim for early breakthroughs but CSK's depth and experience are likely to get them their first win of the season.

The cricketing action will continue to take place in IPL 2022 as match 7 of the 15th edition will see Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the debutant team Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday evening (March 31) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai.

The cricketing action will continue to take place in IPL 2022 as match 7 of the 15th edition will see Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the debutant team Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday evening (March 31) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai. Both sides are coming to this encounter with a defeat in their respective season-openers. Talking about the defending champions CSK, the Ravindra Jadeja-led Men in Yellow were a pale shadow of themselves as they were brushed aside by KKR's clinical display in the opening game at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Being asked to bat first, CSK managed a paltry 131 for 5 riding on former skipper Dhoni's 50* (38) and Ravi Jadeja's uninspiring 28-ball 26. In reply, KKR closed the run-chase in the penultimate over as the Chennai bowlers did fairly well in not leaking runs at will. Nonetheless, they also didn't apply much pressure with wicket-taking deliveries at regular intervals. On the other hand, the KL Rahul-led Lucknow franchise faced Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans (GT), at the same venue on Monday (March 28). In a hard-fought match, Lucknow fought well courtesy a late surge from their lower-order and some tight bowling, however, they came second as they lost by five wickets in defence of 159. Thus, both Chennai and Lucknow will be desperate to avoid two successive losses at the beginning of the new season. ALSO READ | Updated IPL 2022 points table after Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore game Match prediction for CSK vs LSG clash: So far, only one game has been held at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai this season. It was a 170-plus scoring affair, which went down to the wire. Expect a similar flat track where spinners will have a role to play along with some dew. Both sides will aim for early breakthroughs but CSK's depth and experience are likely to get them their first win of the season.

CSK vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants match?

Match 5 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the one-time winner Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with the 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Tuesday evening (March 29).&nbsp;

It was the first game in Pune in the ongoing IPL season and it produced a run-fest with Rajasthan posting 210-6 in 20 overs and, later, defending the total by 61 runs. After starts from Jos Buttler (35) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (20), skipper Sanju Samson upped the ante for RR along with Devdutt Padikkal's 29-ball 41 and rapid knocks from Shimron Hetmyer (13-ball 32) - Riyan Parag (9-ball 12*) as RR went big with the bat. In reply, Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 22 and twin strikes each from Trent Boult-Prasidh Krishna restricted Kane Williamson &amp; Co. for a moderate 149-7.&nbsp;

With this, RR took the top spot in the points table with a healthy NRR of&nbsp;3.050. After missing out on the playoffs since 2018, ending at the bottom in IPL 2020 and at the seventh position last year, RR have started off nicely. However, they would be desperate to remain consistent and go the distance this time around, in a bid to claim their second IPL title. They were the first-ever IPL champions, in 2008, however, have fallen behind since then.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-sanju-samson-prasidh-krishna-star-as-rajasthan-royals-thrash-sunrisers-hyderabad-by-61-runs-466777">IPL 2022: Sanju Samson, Prasidh Krishna star as Rajasthan Royals thrash Sunrisers Hyderabad by 61 runs</a>

Thus, at the post-match presentation, Danny Marrison tried putting Samson in a spot and asked him if he feels it is 'about time to get that IPL trophy back in the RR cabinet' this time around. To this, Samson had a cheeky response up his sleeves and said, "I think every season we come with great dreams. I think it's a franchise that really takes care of its players. It doesn't give too much pressure as you're giving me right now,” Samson told commentator Morrison after the match. “It likes to keep it as simple as possible. They trust the players throughout the tournament.”

"We will take it one game at a time. We know it's a really tough tournament, lot of good sides and I think we will keep it simple and see how it goes," he added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-ipl-2022-points-table-after-rjasthan-royals-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-clash-466775">Updated IPL 2022 points table after Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad clash</a>
RR will now lock horns with the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) at the DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Saturday afternoon (April 2). They will be eager to continue with the winning run and not lose focus after a fine start to the 15th season.</section>

Match 5 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the one-time winner Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with the 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Tuesday evening (March 29).

Match 5 of the IPL 2022 edition saw the one-time winner Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with the 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Tuesday evening (March 29). It was the first game in Pune in the ongoing IPL season and it produced a run-fest with Rajasthan posting 210-6 in 20 overs and, later, defending the total by 61 runs. After starts from Jos Buttler (35) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (20), skipper Sanju Samson upped the ante for RR along with Devdutt Padikkal's 29-ball 41 and rapid knocks from Shimron Hetmyer (13-ball 32) - Riyan Parag (9-ball 12*) as RR went big with the bat. In reply, Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 22 and twin strikes each from Trent Boult-Prasidh Krishna restricted Kane Williamson & Co. for a moderate 149-7. With this, RR took the top spot in the points table with a healthy NRR of 3.050. After missing out on the playoffs since 2018, ending at the bottom in IPL 2020 and at the seventh position last year, RR have started off nicely. However, they would be desperate to remain consistent and go the distance this time around, in a bid to claim their second IPL title. They were the first-ever IPL champions, in 2008, however, have fallen behind since then. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Sanju Samson, Prasidh Krishna star as Rajasthan Royals thrash Sunrisers Hyderabad by 61 runs Thus, at the post-match presentation, Danny Marrison tried putting Samson in a spot and asked him if he feels it is 'about time to get that IPL trophy back in the RR cabinet' this time around. To this, Samson had a cheeky response up his sleeves and said, "I think every season we come with great dreams. I think it's a franchise that really takes care of its players. It doesn't give too much pressure as you're giving me right now,” Samson told commentator Morrison after the match. “It likes to keep it as simple as possible. They trust the players throughout the tournament.” "We will take it one game at a time. We know it's a really tough tournament, lot of good sides and I think we will keep it simple and see how it goes," he added. ALSO READ | Updated IPL 2022 points table after Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad clash RR will now lock horns with the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) at the DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Saturday afternoon (April 2). They will be eager to continue with the winning run and not lose focus after a fine start to the 15th season.

IPL 2022: RR captain Sanju Samson gives cheeky reply to Danny Marrison's title-drought question post SRH win

MS Dhoni rarely fails to surprise. His has been a story laced with glory but the Dhoni era is nearing its end as we witness the last of the man who has been one of the greatest to have played the game and has won almost everything there is to be in world cricket.

The man who is known for pulling off surprises with his bold yet calculated moves,&nbsp;managed to stump his fans yet again last week when he stepped down as the captain of his beloved Chennai Super Kings (CSK) just two days ahead of the start of the ongoing season of Indian Premier League (IPL).

Those who know Dhoni would be okay with his decision as he has always been able to take the toughest of calls with the utmost composure, irrespective of their dramatic impact. In 2014, he had retired from Tests after a game against Australia in Melbourne without creating any fuss. He was just 10 short of completing 100 Test matches for India but decided to walk away while handing over the baton to Virat Kohli.

In 2017, Dhoni relinquished India's white-ball captaincy as well for Kohli giving his successor enough time to build his own side for the next World Cup in two years' time. It was another decision&nbsp;that&nbsp;left many scratching their heads but Dhoni knew the timing was right for him to pass over the baton.

Dhoni's self-imposed exits have been crafted in his own style - dipped in secrecy and full of surprise. His pattern of announcing his exits continued in the year 2020 when he confirmed his retirement from international cricket with an emotional video on Instagram that gave a glimpse of his entire journey - the highs and lows with the Indian team.

His arrival for Team India in 2004 was the start of a new dawn in Indian cricket as Dhoni led the team to unprecedented success across all formats. He clinched the maiden T20 World Cup title, won India's first Test mace,&nbsp;followed it up with a glorious World Cup triumph in 2011 and shut his critics&nbsp;by leading a young side to a Champions Trophy title in 2013.

His story with the Indian team had come to an end but he was still there for Chennai Super Kings. Many believed with the burden of playing international cricket off his shoulder, Dhoni would set the IPL alight in 2020 but it was not the case as he struggled and so did his team. CSK finished outside the playoffs for the first time in their history and Dhoni's waning prowess was there for everyone to see.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-reliving-the-magnanimous-highs-of-ms-dhoni-as-csk-captain-post-his-shocking-resignation-465242">Reliving the magnanimous highs of MS Dhoni as CSK captain post his shocking resignation</a>

<h3>Comeback of dreams</h3>

If scripting a fairytale comeback in 2018 by lifting their third IPL title post a two-year ban was not enough, Dhoni masterminded another one in 2021. CSK were down and out. Dhoni's men had been written off as the old legs in the squad were finding it difficult to keep up with the pace of the league.

But 2021 arrived and Dhoni the batter took a backseat for Dhoni the captain. The 39-year-old took his fans a trip down memory lane as he once again proved why he is one of the greatest leaders in the game. His shrewd brain combined with his unparalleled reading of the game and the ability to stay calm under pressure did wonders as CSK lifted their fourth title to complete a fairytale redemption.

A redemption that was for the ages and post which Dhoni was heard saying - "job done" after he handed over the trophy to his teammates for celebrations followed by fireworks lighting up the Dubai sky on the night of the IPL final. Not many had thought but they had seen the last of Dhoni as CSK's captain.

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-a-look-at-the-veterans-captaincy-record-for-chennai-super-kings-465141">MS Dhoni: A look at the veteran's captaincy record for Chennai Super Kings</a>

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<h3>The final surprise</h3>

Just two days ahead of the start of IPL 2022, Dhoni sprung what can be his final surprise as a cricketer. It was announced that Dhoni will not be leading CSK anymore and has chosen Ravindra Jadeja to take his legacy forward at the franchise, which he nurtured over the years.

The story of Dhoni and CSK has been the story of the IPL. A team that had no icon player to kickstart their journey in the unheralded territory of IPL in 2008 found their hero in Dhoni. The love continued to blossom as Dhoni led the team to playoffs after playoffs. CSK played nine finals in just twelve seasons under the 'Thala' and won the IPL four times.

They also won the Champions League twice to be crowned as the best T20 team in the world. A prodigious youngster from Ranchi, who was handpicked to lead a Chennai team in the IPL went on to become a cult hero of the city. The respect and admiration Dhoni commands from Chennai fans is so much so that CSK is synonymous with his name.

But as all good things come to an end, Dhoni's journey as the captain of his beloved franchise has come to an end. But he will still be the undisputed leader no matter who leads the team out and wears the captain's armband for the Men in Yellow.

Dhoni remains indispensable for CSK but he has decided to pass the captaincy baton looking at the future and doing what he has always done as a cricketer - putting the team above himself. Dhoni knows he will still be there in Jadeja's initial years of captaincy and there is no better man&nbsp;to guide his successor from behind the stumps than himself.

While he will be there for Jadeja to help him in crunch situations and set up the field during crucial overs, Dhoni is unlikely to be in the all-rounder's ears all the time and will let him run the game.&nbsp;He will still be the go-to man for Jadeja but CSK will not anymore be Dhoni's team.

&nbsp;

MS Dhoni rarely fails to surprise. His has been a story laced with glory but the Dhoni era is nearing its end as we witness the last of the man who has been one of the greatest to have played the game and has won almost everything there is to be in world cricket.

MS Dhoni rarely fails to surprise. His has been a story laced with glory but the Dhoni era is nearing its end as we witness the last of the man who has been one of the greatest to have played the game and has won almost everything there is to be in world cricket. The man who is known for pulling off surprises with his bold yet calculated moves, managed to stump his fans yet again last week when he stepped down as the captain of his beloved Chennai Super Kings (CSK) just two days ahead of the start of the ongoing season of Indian Premier League (IPL). Those who know Dhoni would be okay with his decision as he has always been able to take the toughest of calls with the utmost composure, irrespective of their dramatic impact. In 2014, he had retired from Tests after a game against Australia in Melbourne without creating any fuss. He was just 10 short of completing 100 Test matches for India but decided to walk away while handing over the baton to Virat Kohli. In 2017, Dhoni relinquished India's white-ball captaincy as well for Kohli giving his successor enough time to build his own side for the next World Cup in two years' time. It was another decision that left many scratching their heads but Dhoni knew the timing was right for him to pass over the baton. Dhoni's self-imposed exits have been crafted in his own style - dipped in secrecy and full of surprise. His pattern of announcing his exits continued in the year 2020 when he confirmed his retirement from international cricket with an emotional video on Instagram that gave a glimpse of his entire journey - the highs and lows with the Indian team. His arrival for Team India in 2004 was the start of a new dawn in Indian cricket as Dhoni led the team to unprecedented success across all formats. He clinched the maiden T20 World Cup title, won India's first Test mace, followed it up with a glorious World Cup triumph in 2011 and shut his critics by leading a young side to a Champions Trophy title in 2013. His story with the Indian team had come to an end but he was still there for Chennai Super Kings. Many believed with the burden of playing international cricket off his shoulder, Dhoni would set the IPL alight in 2020 but it was not the case as he struggled and so did his team. CSK finished outside the playoffs for the first time in their history and Dhoni's waning prowess was there for everyone to see. Also Read: Reliving the magnanimous highs of MS Dhoni as CSK captain post his shocking resignation Comeback of dreams If scripting a fairytale comeback in 2018 by lifting their third IPL title post a two-year ban was not enough, Dhoni masterminded another one in 2021. CSK were down and out. Dhoni's men had been written off as the old legs in the squad were finding it difficult to keep up with the pace of the league. But 2021 arrived and Dhoni the batter took a backseat for Dhoni the captain. The 39-year-old took his fans a trip down memory lane as he once again proved why he is one of the greatest leaders in the game. His shrewd brain combined with his unparalleled reading of the game and the ability to stay calm under pressure did wonders as CSK lifted their fourth title to complete a fairytale redemption. A redemption that was for the ages and post which Dhoni was heard saying - "job done" after he handed over the trophy to his teammates for celebrations followed by fireworks lighting up the Dubai sky on the night of the IPL final. Not many had thought but they had seen the last of Dhoni as CSK's captain. × Also Read: MS Dhoni: A look at the veteran's captaincy record for Chennai Super Kings × The final surprise Just two days ahead of the start of IPL 2022, Dhoni sprung what can be his final surprise as a cricketer. It was announced that Dhoni will not be leading CSK anymore and has chosen Ravindra Jadeja to take his legacy forward at the franchise, which he nurtured over the years. The story of Dhoni and CSK has been the story of the IPL. A team that had no icon player to kickstart their journey in the unheralded territory of IPL in 2008 found their hero in Dhoni. The love continued to blossom as Dhoni led the team to playoffs after playoffs. CSK played nine finals in just twelve seasons under the 'Thala' and won the IPL four times. They also won the Champions League twice to be crowned as the best T20 team in the world. A prodigious youngster from Ranchi, who was handpicked to lead a Chennai team in the IPL went on to become a cult hero of the city. The respect and admiration Dhoni commands from Chennai fans is so much so that CSK is synonymous with his name. But as all good things come to an end, Dhoni's journey as the captain of his beloved franchise has come to an end. But he will still be the undisputed leader no matter who leads the team out and wears the captain's armband for the Men in Yellow. Dhoni remains indispensable for CSK but he has decided to pass the captaincy baton looking at the future and doing what he has always done as a cricketer - putting the team above himself. Dhoni knows he will still be there in Jadeja's initial years of captaincy and there is no better man to guide his successor from behind the stumps than himself. While he will be there for Jadeja to help him in crunch situations and set up the field during crucial overs, Dhoni is unlikely to be in the all-rounder's ears all the time and will let him run the game. He will still be the go-to man for Jadeja but CSK will not anymore be Dhoni's team.

A new dawn at CSK as MS Dhoni springs a surprise for one final time

Virat Kohli is one of the fittest crickets in the world and has been an inspiration for several young players, who look up to the former India and Royal Challengers Bangalore captain. Kohli's love and dedication to fitness is a secret to none and his work ethic has been praised by many.

Kohli was not the fittest of cricketers when he had started out for Team India in international cricket but brought several changes in his lifestyle and diet to undergo a stunning transformation. One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has been one of the most consistent performers for his teams across all formats.

Recently, Sri Lankan batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who is playing for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022, heaped praise on Kohli. The Punjab Kings star is looking forward to meeting Kohli and getting some advice for him on fitness having been dropped from the Sri Lankan team earlier this year due to fitness issues.

Rajapaksa also called Kohli the Cristiano Ronaldo of cricket, comparing the Indian superstar with the Portuguese football icon. Even at 37, Ronaldo remains one of the fittest athletes in the world and continues to break records for his club and country.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/expecting-600-runs-from-virat-kohli-in-ipl-2022-rcb-legend-makes-bold-prediction-for-former-skipper-466934">Expecting 600-plus runs from Virat Kohli in IPL 2022: RCB legend makes bold prediction for former skipper</a>

"Outside of the team, Virat Kohli is always someone I could speak to and get some advice on fitness. He’s at another different level when it comes to fitness. To me, he is the Cristiano Ronaldo of cricket for sure. The work he puts in, you can obviously see the results. You can compare him to anyone when it comes to fitness or even skills-wise. He plays so hard and you can learn a lot by talking to him," Rajapaksa told PTI in an interview.

The Sri Lankan batter, who impressed on his IPL debut with a crucial knock of 22-ball 43 against RCB in their opening game, stressed the importance of fitness for cricketers and said he has been working hard on his body to ensure he can be on top of his game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-be-great-to-see-virat-kohli-babar-azam-open-in-ipl-akhtar-predicts-price-tag-of-pakistan-captain-466900">Would be great to see Virat Kohli, Babar Azam open in IPL: Akhtar predicts price tag of Pakistan captain</a>

"As a player, you need your fitness but it could be different from person to person. For me, of course, skill comes first and then the fitness. But if you are not fit enough, you definitely can’t perform. I’m actually working hard on my fitness. Whenever I get a free day I hit the gym early in the morning," said Rajapaksa.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is one of the fittest crickets in the world and has been an inspiration for several young players, who look up to the former India and Royal Challengers Bangalore captain.

Virat Kohli is one of the fittest crickets in the world and has been an inspiration for several young players, who look up to the former India and Royal Challengers Bangalore captain. Kohli's love and dedication to fitness is a secret to none and his work ethic has been praised by many. Kohli was not the fittest of cricketers when he had started out for Team India in international cricket but brought several changes in his lifestyle and diet to undergo a stunning transformation. One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has been one of the most consistent performers for his teams across all formats. Recently, Sri Lankan batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who is playing for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022, heaped praise on Kohli. The Punjab Kings star is looking forward to meeting Kohli and getting some advice for him on fitness having been dropped from the Sri Lankan team earlier this year due to fitness issues. Rajapaksa also called Kohli the Cristiano Ronaldo of cricket, comparing the Indian superstar with the Portuguese football icon. Even at 37, Ronaldo remains one of the fittest athletes in the world and continues to break records for his club and country. Also Read: Expecting 600-plus runs from Virat Kohli in IPL 2022: RCB legend makes bold prediction for former skipper "Outside of the team, Virat Kohli is always someone I could speak to and get some advice on fitness. He’s at another different level when it comes to fitness. To me, he is the Cristiano Ronaldo of cricket for sure. The work he puts in, you can obviously see the results. You can compare him to anyone when it comes to fitness or even skills-wise. He plays so hard and you can learn a lot by talking to him," Rajapaksa told PTI in an interview. The Sri Lankan batter, who impressed on his IPL debut with a crucial knock of 22-ball 43 against RCB in their opening game, stressed the importance of fitness for cricketers and said he has been working hard on his body to ensure he can be on top of his game. Also Read: Would be great to see Virat Kohli, Babar Azam open in IPL: Akhtar predicts price tag of Pakistan captain "As a player, you need your fitness but it could be different from person to person. For me, of course, skill comes first and then the fitness. But if you are not fit enough, you definitely can’t perform. I’m actually working hard on my fitness. Whenever I get a free day I hit the gym early in the morning," said Rajapaksa.

Virat Kohli is Cristiano Ronaldo of cricket: Punjab Kings star lavishes praise on former RCB skipper

AB de Villiers remains a big name in world cricket. After his abrupt international retirement, which he announced during IPL 2018 season, the former South African captain remained active in various T20 leagues and talks were on with the Cricket South Africa (CSA) board for him to make an&nbsp;international comeback for last year's T20 World Cup. However, the discussions didn't materialise into ABD's possible comeback at&nbsp;the international level.

De Villiers played the IPL 2021 edition, once again representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise. Soon after IPL 14's end, the legendary cricketer called it quits from all forms of the game. De Villiers signed off with 8,765 Test, 9,577 ODI and 5,162 IPL runs, respectively. Thus, he has left many awestruck with his versatality as a batter and continues to be an inspiration for many.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-looked-at-anushka-sharma-in-shock-virat-kohli-recalls-ab-de-villiers-shocking-ipl-retirement-466667">'I looked at Anushka Sharma in shock' - Virat Kohli recalls AB de Villiers' shocking IPL retirement</a>

Recently, KL Rahul spoke about his fanboy moment with de Villiers when he first joined the RCB setup in 2013. In Gaurav Kapoor's Breakfast with Champions' new season, Rahul spilled the beans on his conversations with ABD and how he continues to leave him short of words.

"My kid in a candy store moment came in I think 2012 or 2013 season, which was my first. I walked in and (saw) Virat (Kohli), Chris Gayle, Zaheer Khan and AB, who was my favourite player and still is,” Rahul said. "I always go back and watch videos of him. Now, just before going to South Africa, I watched AB de Villiers hundreds in South Africa, then before going to England it was AB de Villiers in England. He has always been one of my favourite players,” he further revealed.

"I have a very nice, cute relationship with AB. I'm still very like... I don't have words. Nothing comes out. I try and then look like an idiot when trying to make a conversation with him after the games in IPL because there is so much I want to ask him but I don't know. It's a proper fanboy moment with him,” added Rahul.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-recalls-being-sidelined-despite-good-cwc19-run-reveals-how-chris-gayle-lifted-his-spirits-466688">KL Rahul recalls being sidelined despite a good CWC'19 for India, reveals how Chris Gayle lifted his spirits</a>

At present, Rahul is leading the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the ongoing IPL 2022 edition in India. Under him, Lucknow lost their season-opener to another debutant team, Gujarat Titans by five wickets on Monday evening (March 28).

AB de Villiers remains a big name in world cricket. After his abrupt international retirement, which he announced during IPL 2018 season, the former South African captain remained active in various T20 leagues and talks were on with the Cricket South Africa (CSA) board for him to make an international comeback for last year's T20 World Cup.

AB de Villiers remains a big name in world cricket. After his abrupt international retirement, which he announced during IPL 2018 season, the former South African captain remained active in various T20 leagues and talks were on with the Cricket South Africa (CSA) board for him to make an international comeback for last year's T20 World Cup. However, the discussions didn't materialise into ABD's possible comeback at the international level. De Villiers played the IPL 2021 edition, once again representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise. Soon after IPL 14's end, the legendary cricketer called it quits from all forms of the game. De Villiers signed off with 8,765 Test, 9,577 ODI and 5,162 IPL runs, respectively. Thus, he has left many awestruck with his versatality as a batter and continues to be an inspiration for many. ALSO READ | 'I looked at Anushka Sharma in shock' - Virat Kohli recalls AB de Villiers' shocking IPL retirement Recently, KL Rahul spoke about his fanboy moment with de Villiers when he first joined the RCB setup in 2013. In Gaurav Kapoor's Breakfast with Champions' new season, Rahul spilled the beans on his conversations with ABD and how he continues to leave him short of words. "My kid in a candy store moment came in I think 2012 or 2013 season, which was my first. I walked in and (saw) Virat (Kohli), Chris Gayle, Zaheer Khan and AB, who was my favourite player and still is,” Rahul said. "I always go back and watch videos of him. Now, just before going to South Africa, I watched AB de Villiers hundreds in South Africa, then before going to England it was AB de Villiers in England. He has always been one of my favourite players,” he further revealed. "I have a very nice, cute relationship with AB. I'm still very like... I don't have words. Nothing comes out. I try and then look like an idiot when trying to make a conversation with him after the games in IPL because there is so much I want to ask him but I don't know. It's a proper fanboy moment with him,” added Rahul. ALSO READ | KL Rahul recalls being sidelined despite a good CWC'19 for India, reveals how Chris Gayle lifted his spirits At present, Rahul is leading the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the ongoing IPL 2022 edition in India. Under him, Lucknow lost their season-opener to another debutant team, Gujarat Titans by five wickets on Monday evening (March 28).

I look like an idiot when trying to make conversation, it's a fanboy moment: KL Rahul on AB de Villiers

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) got off to a perfect start in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 with a thumping win over Ravindra Jadeja-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their opening game of the season. KKR rode on impressive performances from the likes of Umesh Yadav, Sunil Narine and Ajinkya Rahane to beat CSK by six wickets in the season-opener at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

After kicking off their journey with a victory under new captain Shreyas Iyer, KKR will be keen on continuing their winning run when they lock horns with Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their second game of the season at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday (March 30).

Umesh was the pick of the bowlers for KKR against CSK as the veteran Indian pacer redeemed himself in style after struggling in the past couple of seasons in the IPL. Umesh dismissed CSK openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway cheaply in the Powerplay to finish with excellent figures of 2/20 in his 4 overs and is likely to spearhead the pace attack one against his former team RCB.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/truth-is-bitter-parthiv-patel-shares-cryptic-tweet-after-his-comments-on-kohli-bumrah-go-viral-466890">'Truth is bitter': Parthiv Patel shares cryptic tweet after his comments on Kohli, Bumrah go viral</a>

Apart from Umesh, spinners Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy were also excellent for KKR as the duo maintained a brilliant economy rate to restrict CSK on a low-key total. They will be looking to continue their fine form against RCB on Wednesday.

Rahane, who too has struggled in the IPL over the last few seasons, played a brilliant knock of 44 runs against CSK in KKR's opener and is likely to continue opening with Venkatesh Iyer with Narine playing the finisher's role in the middle-order. KKR played against CSK with only 3 overseas players in the XI but might make a change against RCB.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-kkr-ipl-2022-prediction-who-will-win-royal-challengers-bangalore-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-466843">IPL 2022 prediction: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders match?</a>

KKR might rope in New Zealand pacer Tim Southee in place of Shivam Mavi to further strengthen their pace attack. Sri Lanka all-rounder&nbsp;Chamika Karunaratne might also be in contention to get a spot in the XI but Southee remains a favourite to replace Mavi, who went for runs against CSK.

KKR's predicted XI for IPL 2022 clash against RCB:

Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Nitish Rana, Shreyas Iyer (c), Sam Billings, Andre Russell, Sheldon Jackson (wk), Sunil Narine, Tim Southee, Umesh Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy

&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) got off to a perfect start in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 with a thumping win over Ravindra Jadeja-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their opening game of the season.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) got off to a perfect start in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 with a thumping win over Ravindra Jadeja-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their opening game of the season. KKR rode on impressive performances from the likes of Umesh Yadav, Sunil Narine and Ajinkya Rahane to beat CSK by six wickets in the season-opener at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. After kicking off their journey with a victory under new captain Shreyas Iyer, KKR will be keen on continuing their winning run when they lock horns with Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their second game of the season at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday (March 30). Umesh was the pick of the bowlers for KKR against CSK as the veteran Indian pacer redeemed himself in style after struggling in the past couple of seasons in the IPL. Umesh dismissed CSK openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway cheaply in the Powerplay to finish with excellent figures of 2/20 in his 4 overs and is likely to spearhead the pace attack one against his former team RCB. Also Read: 'Truth is bitter': Parthiv Patel shares cryptic tweet after his comments on Kohli, Bumrah go viral Apart from Umesh, spinners Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy were also excellent for KKR as the duo maintained a brilliant economy rate to restrict CSK on a low-key total. They will be looking to continue their fine form against RCB on Wednesday. Rahane, who too has struggled in the IPL over the last few seasons, played a brilliant knock of 44 runs against CSK in KKR's opener and is likely to continue opening with Venkatesh Iyer with Narine playing the finisher's role in the middle-order. KKR played against CSK with only 3 overseas players in the XI but might make a change against RCB. Also Read: IPL 2022 prediction: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders match? KKR might rope in New Zealand pacer Tim Southee in place of Shivam Mavi to further strengthen their pace attack. Sri Lanka all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne might also be in contention to get a spot in the XI but Southee remains a favourite to replace Mavi, who went for runs against CSK. KKR's predicted XI for IPL 2022 clash against RCB: Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Nitish Rana, Shreyas Iyer (c), Sam Billings, Andre Russell, Sheldon Jackson (wk), Sunil Narine, Tim Southee, Umesh Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy

IPL 2022: Venkatesh Iyer to continue opening with Ajinkya Rahane? KKR's predicted playing XI for RCB clash

The first edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) remains the only season where Pakistani players took part in the cash-rich league. Since then, their participation has remained a distant dream due to the political tension between India and Pakistan since 2008.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, it doesn't stop the experts and former cricketers from making predictions about the price tag of the current lot of Pakistan players had they been a part of the IPL in present times. In this regard, the Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar made a bold claim by predicting Pakistan captain Babar Azam's price tag in the IPL.

In a chat with Sportskeeda, Akhtar said, "It would be great to see Babar Azam and Virat Kohli opening the innings together in the IPL one day. What an exciting moment that would be. In the auction, Babar would go for 15-20 crore INR and could be the most expensive Pakistan player."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aakash-chopra-requested-me-to-not-break-his-ribs-shoaib-akhtar-recalls-his-kkr-days-during-ipl-2008-466728">Aakash Chopra requested me to not break his ribs: Shoaib Akhtar recalls his KKR days during IPL 2008</a>

Along with Babar, Pakistan have quite a few talented cricketers such as Shaheen Afridi, Md Rizwan, Shadab Khan, etc. who can gain big-fat cheques in the IPL. However, this remains a distant dream at present seeing the political relationship between the two neighbouring countries.

At present, the IPL 2022 edition has started on an emphatic note and has given fans plenty to cheer for after the five completed&nbsp;games so far. On the other hand, Babar-led Pakistan are involved in a three-match ODI series versus Australia at home. They lost the series opener, on Tuesday (March 29), by 88 runs.

The first edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) remains the only season where Pakistani players took part in the cash-rich league. Since then, their participation has remained a distant dream due to the political tension between India and Pakistan since 2008.

The first edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) remains the only season where Pakistani players took part in the cash-rich league. Since then, their participation has remained a distant dream due to the political tension between India and Pakistan since 2008. Nonetheless, it doesn't stop the experts and former cricketers from making predictions about the price tag of the current lot of Pakistan players had they been a part of the IPL in present times. In this regard, the Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar made a bold claim by predicting Pakistan captain Babar Azam's price tag in the IPL. In a chat with Sportskeeda, Akhtar said, "It would be great to see Babar Azam and Virat Kohli opening the innings together in the IPL one day. What an exciting moment that would be. In the auction, Babar would go for 15-20 crore INR and could be the most expensive Pakistan player." ALSO READ | Aakash Chopra requested me to not break his ribs: Shoaib Akhtar recalls his KKR days during IPL 2008 Along with Babar, Pakistan have quite a few talented cricketers such as Shaheen Afridi, Md Rizwan, Shadab Khan, etc. who can gain big-fat cheques in the IPL. However, this remains a distant dream at present seeing the political relationship between the two neighbouring countries. At present, the IPL 2022 edition has started on an emphatic note and has given fans plenty to cheer for after the five completed games so far. On the other hand, Babar-led Pakistan are involved in a three-match ODI series versus Australia at home. They lost the series opener, on Tuesday (March 29), by 88 runs.

Would be great to see Virat Kohli, Babar Azam open in IPL: Akhtar predicts price tag of Pakistan captain

Former India wicket-keeper batter Parthiv Patel shared a cryptic tweet after his comments involving Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah went viral on social media recently. Patel, who played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) during his playing days, had claimed he had once asked Kohli to try Jasprit Bumrah for RCB before the fast bowler went on to make a name for himself in the IPL.

During a conversation on Cricbuzz, Parthiv had revealed that he had informed Kohli about Bumrah in 2014 when the Indian pacer was an unknown entity. However, Kohli had brushed off his suggestions in a rather ignorant manner and said players like Bumrah won't be of much help to a team like RCB.

"In 2014, when I was at RCB, I told Kohli there's this bowler named Bumrah. Have a look at him. Virat replied saying 'Chhor na yaar. Ye Bumrah-Vumrah kya karenge?' (Leave it. What will such players do?" Parthiv had said on Cricbuzz.

The former RCB wicket-keeper batter's comments soon went viral on social media as fans reacted to Kohli's alleged reaction on Bumrah becoming the talk of the town. Kohli, who has stepped down as captain of RCB, was criticised by many for failing to spot Bumrah's talent as the fast bowler has now become one of the best in the world.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/horrible-decision-3rd-umpire-slammed-after-kane-williamsons-controversial-dismissal-against-rr-in-ipl-2022-466769">'Horrible decision': 3rd umpire slammed after Williamson's controversial dismissal against RR&nbsp;</a>

Parthiv took to Twitter recently to share a cryptic tweet that seems to be in relation to the fans' reaction to his revelation about the episode involving Kohli and Bumrah."Neem patta aur sach dono kadwa hai (Neem leaves and truth are both bitter)," Parthiv tweeted.

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neem patta aur sach 
dono kadwa hai!
— parthiv patel (@parthiv9) <a href="https://twitter.com/parthiv9/status/1508494428595400705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-will-he-do-when-virat-kohli-brushed-away-parthiv-patels-suggestion-to-try-jaspit-bumrah-for-rcb-466302">'What will he do': When Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try&nbsp;Bumrah for RCB</a>&nbsp;

Bumrah made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians in the year 2013 and has since been retained by the franchise. The Indian fast bowler has become an integral member of the Mumbai Indians squad and has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the IPL over the years. Bumrah has 130 wickets to his name at an average of 23.37 in 107 matches in his IPL career so far.

&nbsp;

Former India wicket-keeper batter Parthiv Patel shared a cryptic tweet after his comments involving Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah went viral on social media recently.

Former India wicket-keeper batter Parthiv Patel shared a cryptic tweet after his comments involving Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah went viral on social media recently. Patel, who played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) during his playing days, had claimed he had once asked Kohli to try Jasprit Bumrah for RCB before the fast bowler went on to make a name for himself in the IPL. During a conversation on Cricbuzz, Parthiv had revealed that he had informed Kohli about Bumrah in 2014 when the Indian pacer was an unknown entity. However, Kohli had brushed off his suggestions in a rather ignorant manner and said players like Bumrah won't be of much help to a team like RCB. "In 2014, when I was at RCB, I told Kohli there's this bowler named Bumrah. Have a look at him. Virat replied saying 'Chhor na yaar. Ye Bumrah-Vumrah kya karenge?' (Leave it. What will such players do?" Parthiv had said on Cricbuzz. The former RCB wicket-keeper batter's comments soon went viral on social media as fans reacted to Kohli's alleged reaction on Bumrah becoming the talk of the town. Kohli, who has stepped down as captain of RCB, was criticised by many for failing to spot Bumrah's talent as the fast bowler has now become one of the best in the world. Also Read: 'Horrible decision': 3rd umpire slammed after Williamson's controversial dismissal against RR Parthiv took to Twitter recently to share a cryptic tweet that seems to be in relation to the fans' reaction to his revelation about the episode involving Kohli and Bumrah."Neem patta aur sach dono kadwa hai (Neem leaves and truth are both bitter)," Parthiv tweeted. neem patta aur sach dono kadwa hai! — parthiv patel (@parthiv9) March 28, 2022 × Also Read: 'What will he do': When Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try Bumrah for RCB Bumrah made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians in the year 2013 and has since been retained by the franchise. The Indian fast bowler has become an integral member of the Mumbai Indians squad and has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the IPL over the years. Bumrah has 130 wickets to his name at an average of 23.37 in 107 matches in his IPL career so far.

'Truth is bitter': Parthiv Patel shares cryptic tweet after his comments on Kohli, Bumrah go viral

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Devon Conway recently opened up on his chat with the legendary MS Dhoni after his decision to step down as the captain of the franchise. Dhoni announced his decision&nbsp;just a couple of days ahead of the start of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as he passed over the baton to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.

While many had expected Dhoni to continue leading CSK this year after being retained by the franchise for a sum of Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million) ahead of the IPL mega auction, Dhoni pulled off another surprise just before the start of the season.

Like several others who were roped in by CSK at the mega auction last month, New Zealand opener Devon Conway was also looking forward to playing under Dhoni's captaincy in IPL 2022 but was left surprised after the latter's decision. Conway recently opened up on his chat with Dhoni over his decision to leave captaincy.

Conway revealed he asked Dhoni if he was sure he would not want to lead the team for another season as he was keen to play under the leadership of the four-time IPL-winning captain. However, Dhoni told him he would not lead the side but will still be around to guide&nbsp;the players.

“I was wanting to play under the great MS as captain. I had a nice little conversation with him. I said, ‘you’re sure you don’t want to captain one more season so I can play under you as captain?’ But he said, ‘no, but I am always going to be around anyway'. It was really cool," said Conway in a video shared by CSK.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-joint-most-expensive-player-in-ipl-but-his-mother-wants-lsg-skipper-to-finish-his-degree-466733">KL Rahul joint-most expensive player in IPL but his mother wants LSG skipper to finish his degree</a>

Conway, who was roped in by CSK at his base price of Rs 1 crore (INR 10 million) at the mega auction, also opened up on his lunch meeting with CSK's new captain Jadeja and Dhoni. The Kiwi batter said the duo came across as normal grown guys to him who are down to earth despite achieving tremendous success in their respective careers.

“A couple of days ago I had lunch and sat in between MS and Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja). It was really cool just to get to know them better. They are just normal men, normal grown guys, just down to earth. No aura about them, easy to get along with and easy to talk to. So it’s been really good to interact with those two legends of Indian cricket," said Conway.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-dawn-at-csk-as-ms-dhoni-springs-a-surprise-for-one-final-time-466604">A new dawn at CSK as MS Dhoni springs a surprise for one final time</a>

After losing their opening clash against KKR by six wickets, CSK will be looking to bounce back to winning ways when they take on Lucknow Super Giants in their second game of the season on Thursday.

&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Devon Conway recently opened up on his chat with the legendary MS Dhoni after his decision to step down as the captain of the franchise.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Devon Conway recently opened up on his chat with the legendary MS Dhoni after his decision to step down as the captain of the franchise. Dhoni announced his decision just a couple of days ahead of the start of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as he passed over the baton to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. While many had expected Dhoni to continue leading CSK this year after being retained by the franchise for a sum of Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million) ahead of the IPL mega auction, Dhoni pulled off another surprise just before the start of the season. Like several others who were roped in by CSK at the mega auction last month, New Zealand opener Devon Conway was also looking forward to playing under Dhoni's captaincy in IPL 2022 but was left surprised after the latter's decision. Conway recently opened up on his chat with Dhoni over his decision to leave captaincy. Conway revealed he asked Dhoni if he was sure he would not want to lead the team for another season as he was keen to play under the leadership of the four-time IPL-winning captain. However, Dhoni told him he would not lead the side but will still be around to guide the players. “I was wanting to play under the great MS as captain. I had a nice little conversation with him. I said, ‘you’re sure you don’t want to captain one more season so I can play under you as captain?’ But he said, ‘no, but I am always going to be around anyway'. It was really cool," said Conway in a video shared by CSK. Also Read: KL Rahul joint-most expensive player in IPL but his mother wants LSG skipper to finish his degree Conway, who was roped in by CSK at his base price of Rs 1 crore (INR 10 million) at the mega auction, also opened up on his lunch meeting with CSK's new captain Jadeja and Dhoni. The Kiwi batter said the duo came across as normal grown guys to him who are down to earth despite achieving tremendous success in their respective careers. “A couple of days ago I had lunch and sat in between MS and Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja). It was really cool just to get to know them better. They are just normal men, normal grown guys, just down to earth. No aura about them, easy to get along with and easy to talk to. So it’s been really good to interact with those two legends of Indian cricket," said Conway. Also Read: A new dawn at CSK as MS Dhoni springs a surprise for one final time After losing their opening clash against KKR by six wickets, CSK will be looking to bounce back to winning ways when they take on Lucknow Super Giants in their second game of the season on Thursday.

Devon Conway opens up on his chat with MS Dhoni: 'You're sure you don't want to captain another season'

KL Rahul is one of the most successful cricketers going around and is currently at the peak of his prowess. He is the vice-captain of the Indian team across formats and is seen as one of the potential captaincy candidates for the future. Rahul is also the joint-most expensive player in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and is leading the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) franchise.

Despite him being pretty successful in his cricketing career so far, Rahul's mother wants the Lucknow Super Giants skipper to sit for his pending exams and complete his degree. Rahul recently revealed that his mother asked him to finish his pending papers during the lockdown in 2020 when all cricket was suspended.

Rahul appeared on hot Gaurav Kapoor's show Breakfast with Champions where he revealed how he still faces the stick from his mother for not having a degree. He said his parents were the happiest when the stylish right-hand batter had got a job in the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

“My mother still gives me s**t for not having a degree. Even during the lockdown, she said – ‘why don’t you finish your 30 papers? Why don’t you sit down and write it and get a degree’”, Rahul told&nbsp;Kapoor on Breakfast With Champions.

“The happiest they’ve been is when I got an RBI job. Got a central government job, so they were happy. I had played four years for India already but that didn’t make them happy. This was like, yes now you’ll be stable,” he said.

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Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-brutally-trolled-for-felt-like-a-win-tweet-after-lucknows-loss-against-gujarat-titans-in-ipl-2022-466703">&nbsp;KL Rahul brutally trolled for 'felt like a win' tweet after Lucknow's loss against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022</a>

Rahul's Lucknow Super Giants off to a spoor start in IPL 2022:

Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants, who are into their debut campaign in the Indian Premier League, lost their opening game against fellow debutants Gujarat Lions at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. Rahul was dismissed on a duck as LSG suffered a top-order collapse before fifties from young Ayush Badoni and Deepak Hoods helped them post a fighting total of 158 runs on the board.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-recalls-being-sidelined-despite-good-cwc19-run-reveals-how-chris-gayle-lifted-his-spirits-466688">KL Rahul recalls being sidelined despite a good CWC'19 for India, reveals how Chris Gayle lifted his spirits</a>

Lucknow Super Giants bowlers did well to pick up early wickets and put Gujarat Titans in trouble during the run-chase. However, brilliant cameos from David Miller and Rahul Tewatia helped Gujarat Titans get over the line with two balls to spare and bag their first win of the tournament.

&nbsp;

KL Rahul is one of the most successful cricketers going around and is currently at the peak of his prowess. He is the vice-captain of the Indian team across formats and is seen as one of the potential captaincy candidates for the future.

KL Rahul is one of the most successful cricketers going around and is currently at the peak of his prowess. He is the vice-captain of the Indian team across formats and is seen as one of the potential captaincy candidates for the future. Rahul is also the joint-most expensive player in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and is leading the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) franchise. Despite him being pretty successful in his cricketing career so far, Rahul's mother wants the Lucknow Super Giants skipper to sit for his pending exams and complete his degree. Rahul recently revealed that his mother asked him to finish his pending papers during the lockdown in 2020 when all cricket was suspended. Rahul appeared on hot Gaurav Kapoor's show Breakfast with Champions where he revealed how he still faces the stick from his mother for not having a degree. He said his parents were the happiest when the stylish right-hand batter had got a job in the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). “My mother still gives me s**t for not having a degree. Even during the lockdown, she said – ‘why don’t you finish your 30 papers? Why don’t you sit down and write it and get a degree’”, Rahul told Kapoor on Breakfast With Champions. “The happiest they’ve been is when I got an RBI job. Got a central government job, so they were happy. I had played four years for India already but that didn’t make them happy. This was like, yes now you’ll be stable,” he said. × Also Read: KL Rahul brutally trolled for 'felt like a win' tweet after Lucknow's loss against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022 Rahul's Lucknow Super Giants off to a spoor start in IPL 2022: Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants, who are into their debut campaign in the Indian Premier League, lost their opening game against fellow debutants Gujarat Lions at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. Rahul was dismissed on a duck as LSG suffered a top-order collapse before fifties from young Ayush Badoni and Deepak Hoods helped them post a fighting total of 158 runs on the board. Also Read: KL Rahul recalls being sidelined despite a good CWC'19 for India, reveals how Chris Gayle lifted his spirits Lucknow Super Giants bowlers did well to pick up early wickets and put Gujarat Titans in trouble during the run-chase. However, brilliant cameos from David Miller and Rahul Tewatia helped Gujarat Titans get over the line with two balls to spare and bag their first win of the tournament.

KL Rahul joint-most expensive player in IPL but his mother wants LSG skipper to finish his degree

Shoaib Akhtar remains a big name in world cricket. The Rawalpindi Express was known for his ferocious pace and ended his stellar international career with 444 wickets overall, apart from battling several injuries and controversies.

Akhtar was among the Pakistani players who took part in the inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008. Akhtar was part of the Sourav Ganguly-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise but hardly played a lot of games. The former pacer ended the season with only three games, accounting for a total of five scalps. He, however, contributed with&nbsp;a Player-of-the-Match performance in KKR's thrilling win over Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata (where he returned with 4 for 11 in Kolkata's defence of 134). It was also his maiden outing for the franchise.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/old-vintage-virat-kohli-aakash-chopra-praises-former-rcb-skipper-for-his-unbeaten-41-vs-pbks-466370">Old vintage Virat Kohli: Aakash Chopra praises former RCB skipper for his unbeaten 41 vs PBKS</a>

During his maiden IPL game, Akhtar went all-out in celebrating one of his&nbsp;scalps and recalled how he took former KKR opener, Aakash Chopra, by surprise.&nbsp;

"I remember in that (KKR vs DD) game I was charged up after taking a wicket and had grabbed Aakash Chopra by the collar to pull him closer. He then requested that I be careful not to break his ribs while doing that. After that, I also jumped on Salman Butt while celebrating."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-looked-at-anushka-sharma-in-shock-virat-kohli-recalls-ab-de-villiers-shocking-ipl-retirement-466667">'I looked at Anushka Sharma in shock' - Virat Kohli recalls AB de Villiers' shocking IPL retirement</a>

Since the IPL 2008 edition, no Pakistani player has featured in the tournament in the following seasons. At present, Akhtar remains vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game whereas KKR have got off to a winning start in IPL 2022, beating defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with ease in the season-opener on March 26.

Shoaib Akhtar remains a big name in world cricket. The Rawalpindi Express was known for his ferocious pace and ended his stellar international career with 444 wickets overall, apart from battling several injuries and controversies.

Shoaib Akhtar remains a big name in world cricket. The Rawalpindi Express was known for his ferocious pace and ended his stellar international career with 444 wickets overall, apart from battling several injuries and controversies. Akhtar was among the Pakistani players who took part in the inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008. Akhtar was part of the Sourav Ganguly-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise but hardly played a lot of games. The former pacer ended the season with only three games, accounting for a total of five scalps. He, however, contributed with a Player-of-the-Match performance in KKR's thrilling win over Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata (where he returned with 4 for 11 in Kolkata's defence of 134). It was also his maiden outing for the franchise. ALSO READ | Old vintage Virat Kohli: Aakash Chopra praises former RCB skipper for his unbeaten 41 vs PBKS During his maiden IPL game, Akhtar went all-out in celebrating one of his scalps and recalled how he took former KKR opener, Aakash Chopra, by surprise. "I remember in that (KKR vs DD) game I was charged up after taking a wicket and had grabbed Aakash Chopra by the collar to pull him closer. He then requested that I be careful not to break his ribs while doing that. After that, I also jumped on Salman Butt while celebrating." ALSO READ | 'I looked at Anushka Sharma in shock' - Virat Kohli recalls AB de Villiers' shocking IPL retirement Since the IPL 2008 edition, no Pakistani player has featured in the tournament in the following seasons. At present, Akhtar remains vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game whereas KKR have got off to a winning start in IPL 2022, beating defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with ease in the season-opener on March 26.

Aakash Chopra requested me to not break his ribs: Shoaib Akhtar recalls his KKR days during IPL 2008

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the release of an Invitation to Tender for Media Rights to the Indian Premier League seasons 2023-2027. 
 
"The Governing Council of the IPL invites bids from reputed entities to acquire the Media Rights for the Indian Premier League Seasons 2023-2027, through a tender process," the BCCI said in a statement. 
 
The detailed terms and conditions governing the tender process including eligibility requirements, process for submissions of bids, proposed media rights packages, and obligations are contained in the 'Invitation to Tender'&nbsp;(ITT) which will be made available on receipt of payment of a non-refundable fee of INR 25,00,000 plus any applicable Goods and Services Tax. 
 
The procedure to procure the ITT documents is enlisted in Annexure A to this document. The ITT will be available for purchase till May 10, 2022, the statement read.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-recalls-being-sidelined-despite-good-cwc19-run-reveals-how-chris-gayle-lifted-his-spirits-466688">KL Rahul recalls being sidelined despite a good CWC'19 for India, reveals how Chris Gayle lifted his spirits</a> 
 
"Interested parties are requested to email the details of payment made for the purchase of the ITT to iplmediarights2022@bcci.tv, as per the procedure laid down in Annexure A. It is clarified that the ITT documents shall be shared only after receipt of payment of the non-refundable ITT fee. 
 
"Any interested party wishing to submit a bid is required to purchase the ITT. However, only those satisfying the eligibility criteria set out in the ITT and subject to the other terms and conditions set out therein shall be eligible to bid. It is clarified that merely purchasing this ITT does not entitle any person to bid," it said. 
 
"BCCI reserves the right to cancel or amend the bidding process at any stage in any manner at its discretion," it added.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the release of an Invitation to Tender for Media Rights to the Indian Premier League seasons 2023-2027.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the release of an Invitation to Tender for Media Rights to the Indian Premier League seasons 2023-2027. "The Governing Council of the IPL invites bids from reputed entities to acquire the Media Rights for the Indian Premier League Seasons 2023-2027, through a tender process," the BCCI said in a statement. The detailed terms and conditions governing the tender process including eligibility requirements, process for submissions of bids, proposed media rights packages, and obligations are contained in the 'Invitation to Tender' (ITT) which will be made available on receipt of payment of a non-refundable fee of INR 25,00,000 plus any applicable Goods and Services Tax. The procedure to procure the ITT documents is enlisted in Annexure A to this document. The ITT will be available for purchase till May 10, 2022, the statement read. ALSO READ: KL Rahul recalls being sidelined despite a good CWC'19 for India, reveals how Chris Gayle lifted his spirits "Interested parties are requested to email the details of payment made for the purchase of the ITT to iplmediarights2022@bcci.tv, as per the procedure laid down in Annexure A. It is clarified that the ITT documents shall be shared only after receipt of payment of the non-refundable ITT fee. "Any interested party wishing to submit a bid is required to purchase the ITT. However, only those satisfying the eligibility criteria set out in the ITT and subject to the other terms and conditions set out therein shall be eligible to bid. It is clarified that merely purchasing this ITT does not entitle any person to bid," it said. "BCCI reserves the right to cancel or amend the bidding process at any stage in any manner at its discretion," it added.

BCCI invites bids for media rights of Indian Premier League seasons 2023-2027

Soon after the end of IPL 2021, AB de Villiers dropped a bomb. The former South African captain announced his retirement from all forms of the game in mid-November and, thus, ended his ten-year-long association with the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise.

During his IPL career, de Villiers represented the Delhi Daredevils (now known as the Delhi Capitals) but spent majority of his days at the RCB camp. Overall, he signed off with 5,162 runs -- sixth-most overall -- but ended up scoring 4,491 runs from 128 matches for the Bengaluru-based franchise and led them to the playoffs on five occasions. However, he couldn't help RCB end their title-drought.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-padikkal-or-jaiswal-as-buttlers-opening-partner-predicting-sanju-samson-led-rrs-playing-xi-vs-srh-466642">IPL 2022: Padikkal or Jaiswal as Buttler's opening partner? Predicting Sanju Samson-led RR's playing XI vs SRH</a>

Recently, former RCB captain Virat Kohli recalled de Villiers' retirement. The two had become one of the most successful batting pairs in IPL, combining together to lead RCB to some mammoth scores and memorable wins.

“It’s very strange I mean, I clearly remember when he decided to finally call it a day. He sent me a voice note, we were coming back from Dubai after the (T20) World Cup. I got a voice note from AB de Villiers while we were driving back home. I opened it and while I was listening to it, I looked at Anushka in shock. My face fell to which she questioned, I showed her the message and the voice note from AB and she exclaimed, ‘Don’t tell me!’. She knew," Kohli said on RCB&nbsp;Bold Diaries.

He further revealed, "I kind of had the impression and was guessing it in the last IPL. Our rooms were next to each other, and we would walk the same way and disperse, every time we walked to our room and he would see me outside, he would be like ‘I want to see you for coffee, one of these days. I kept getting nervous and was like ‘I am not sitting with you because I think there is something coming’ to which he always said ‘No man there is nothing, I just want to have a chat with you, it’s been a while and he never speaks like that because we interact all the time. So, I knew something is brewing up. It is a very strange feeling I got very emotional. The voice note was very emotional as well for me when he said, ‘Look I don’t have it in me anymore. I have shared so many moments with him, highs and lows, everything we have been through he was right next to me."

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/old-vintage-virat-kohli-aakash-chopra-praises-former-rcb-skipper-for-his-unbeaten-41-vs-pbks-466370">Old vintage Virat Kohli: Aakash Chopra praises former RCB skipper for his unbeaten 41 vs PBKS</a>

Before signing off, Kohli opined that he will think about ABD and his contributions for RCB if they manage to win their maiden title in the ongoing season. "The other day, it got me thinking, if we manage to win the title in the coming seasons, I would be very emotional thinking about him first. Rather than what I would experience after such hard work of so many years, I would actually think of him. It would still mean a lot to him even if he is watching the game from home. He is a special human being as he has touched everyone, and we all can vouch for that. He has been amazing, and I don’t think there is one person who can say that AB de Villiers has not contributed to their lives in some way or the other,” Kohli added.

RCB got off to a losing start in IPL 2022, going down to Punjab Kings (PBKS) by five wickets on Sunday (March 27).
</section>

Soon after the end of IPL 2021, AB de Villiers dropped a bomb. The former South African captain announced his retirement from all forms of the game in mid-November and, thus, ended his ten-year-long association with the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise.

Soon after the end of IPL 2021, AB de Villiers dropped a bomb. The former South African captain announced his retirement from all forms of the game in mid-November and, thus, ended his ten-year-long association with the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise. During his IPL career, de Villiers represented the Delhi Daredevils (now known as the Delhi Capitals) but spent majority of his days at the RCB camp. Overall, he signed off with 5,162 runs -- sixth-most overall -- but ended up scoring 4,491 runs from 128 matches for the Bengaluru-based franchise and led them to the playoffs on five occasions. However, he couldn't help RCB end their title-drought. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Padikkal or Jaiswal as Buttler's opening partner? Predicting Sanju Samson-led RR's playing XI vs SRH Recently, former RCB captain Virat Kohli recalled de Villiers' retirement. The two had become one of the most successful batting pairs in IPL, combining together to lead RCB to some mammoth scores and memorable wins. “It’s very strange I mean, I clearly remember when he decided to finally call it a day. He sent me a voice note, we were coming back from Dubai after the (T20) World Cup. I got a voice note from AB de Villiers while we were driving back home. I opened it and while I was listening to it, I looked at Anushka in shock. My face fell to which she questioned, I showed her the message and the voice note from AB and she exclaimed, ‘Don’t tell me!’. She knew," Kohli said on RCB Bold Diaries. He further revealed, "I kind of had the impression and was guessing it in the last IPL. Our rooms were next to each other, and we would walk the same way and disperse, every time we walked to our room and he would see me outside, he would be like ‘I want to see you for coffee, one of these days. I kept getting nervous and was like ‘I am not sitting with you because I think there is something coming’ to which he always said ‘No man there is nothing, I just want to have a chat with you, it’s been a while and he never speaks like that because we interact all the time. So, I knew something is brewing up. It is a very strange feeling I got very emotional. The voice note was very emotional as well for me when he said, ‘Look I don’t have it in me anymore. I have shared so many moments with him, highs and lows, everything we have been through he was right next to me." ALSO READ | Old vintage Virat Kohli: Aakash Chopra praises former RCB skipper for his unbeaten 41 vs PBKS Before signing off, Kohli opined that he will think about ABD and his contributions for RCB if they manage to win their maiden title in the ongoing season. "The other day, it got me thinking, if we manage to win the title in the coming seasons, I would be very emotional thinking about him first. Rather than what I would experience after such hard work of so many years, I would actually think of him. It would still mean a lot to him even if he is watching the game from home. He is a special human being as he has touched everyone, and we all can vouch for that. He has been amazing, and I don’t think there is one person who can say that AB de Villiers has not contributed to their lives in some way or the other,” Kohli added. RCB got off to a losing start in IPL 2022, going down to Punjab Kings (PBKS) by five wickets on Sunday (March 27).

'I looked at Anushka Sharma in shock' - Virat Kohli recalls AB de Villiers' shocking IPL retirement

A new season will begin for both Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) camp as the two sides will square off with each other in match 5 of the ongoing IPL 2022 edition. This will also be the first-ever match to be held at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium, Pune in the 15th season of the cash-rich league.&nbsp;

Talking about the RR franchise, they have revamped in style after finishing the IPL 2021 edition on the seventh spot. Post the two-day mega auction, in mid-February 2022, the Sanju Samson &amp; Co. have added more strength to the squad with the addition of Devdutt Padikkal, Shimron Hetmyer, R Ashwin, Jimmy Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, Prasidh Krishna, etc.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-rajasthan-royals-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-466633">IPL 2022: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads</a>

Here's the predicted playing XI for RR ahead of their season-opener versus SRH:

Jos Buttler is very likely to open. Given his stature and ability to put the opposition on the back foot from ball one, he will continue to start at the top and is likely to be accompanied by Yashasvi Jaiswal or Padikkal. Jaiswal struck form in the second and final leg of IPL 2021 and, hence, can be preferred once again to open with Buttler. Padikkal has also opened for his previous franchise, i.e. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), but has played at No. 3 in his twin outings for India in the shortest format.

RR might like to remain flexible with the No. 3 spot. They might be temped to send either Samson or Padikkal depending on the situation (Samson for Buttler, Padikkal for Jaiswal, respectively).&nbsp;Hetmyer looks like a certain at No. 5, followed by the likes of James Neesham, Riyan Parag and the main bowlers.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/srh-vs-rr-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-rajasthan-royals-match-466598">SRH vs RR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals match?</a>

Among the bowlers, the onus will fall upon Trent Boult, Krishna and Yuzi Chahal-Ashwin. RR can also swap Nathan Coulter-Nile with Neesham, however, the Kiwi might edge past the former in the initial few games.&nbsp;

RR's predicted XI vs SRH:&nbsp;Jos Buttler (wk), Devdutt Padikkal, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, James Neesham, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal and Prasidh Krishna.

A new season will begin for both Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) camp as the two sides will square off with each other in match 5 of the ongoing IPL 2022 edition.

A new season will begin for both Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) camp as the two sides will square off with each other in match 5 of the ongoing IPL 2022 edition. This will also be the first-ever match to be held at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium, Pune in the 15th season of the cash-rich league. Talking about the RR franchise, they have revamped in style after finishing the IPL 2021 edition on the seventh spot. Post the two-day mega auction, in mid-February 2022, the Sanju Samson & Co. have added more strength to the squad with the addition of Devdutt Padikkal, Shimron Hetmyer, R Ashwin, Jimmy Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, Prasidh Krishna, etc. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads Here's the predicted playing XI for RR ahead of their season-opener versus SRH: Jos Buttler is very likely to open. Given his stature and ability to put the opposition on the back foot from ball one, he will continue to start at the top and is likely to be accompanied by Yashasvi Jaiswal or Padikkal. Jaiswal struck form in the second and final leg of IPL 2021 and, hence, can be preferred once again to open with Buttler. Padikkal has also opened for his previous franchise, i.e. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), but has played at No. 3 in his twin outings for India in the shortest format. RR might like to remain flexible with the No. 3 spot. They might be temped to send either Samson or Padikkal depending on the situation (Samson for Buttler, Padikkal for Jaiswal, respectively). Hetmyer looks like a certain at No. 5, followed by the likes of James Neesham, Riyan Parag and the main bowlers. ALSO READ | SRH vs RR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals match? Among the bowlers, the onus will fall upon Trent Boult, Krishna and Yuzi Chahal-Ashwin. RR can also swap Nathan Coulter-Nile with Neesham, however, the Kiwi might edge past the former in the initial few games. RR's predicted XI vs SRH: Jos Buttler (wk), Devdutt Padikkal, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, James Neesham, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal and Prasidh Krishna.

IPL 2022: Padikkal or Jaiswal as Buttler's opening partner? Predicting Sanju Samson-led RR's playing XI vs SRH

Kane Williamson-led Sunriers Hyderabad (SRH) will take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Tuesday (March 29). The two sides will lock horns at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune and will be looking to get off to a winning start this season. Both Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad had failed to make it to the playoffs last year.

SRH endured a woeful campaign as they managed to win only three out of their 14 matches to finish at the bottom of the points table last year. It was a disastrous campaign for their former captain David Warner, who was sacked from captaincy midway through the season and was left on the bench before being released ahead of the mega auction last month.

SRH have revamped their squad by roping in the likes of Nicholas Pooran, Marco Jansen, Washington Sundar and Rahul Tripathi among others. SRH have been one of the most consistent franchises in the IPL over the last few years and will be looking to make it to the playoffs once again this season.

On the other hand, Rajasthan Royals also parted ways with some of the big names like Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer among others but have managed to replace them with some brilliant signings. RR&nbsp;acquired Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal, Devdutt Padikkal, Shimron Hetmyer and R Ashwin at the mega auction last month, who can all be game-changers for the Sanju Samson-led side.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-dawn-at-csk-as-ms-dhoni-springs-a-surprise-for-one-final-time-466604">A new dawn at CSK as MS Dhoni springs a surprise for one final time</a>

Here is all you need to know about the RR vs SRH clash in IPL 2022:

Head to Head:

There is not much to separate Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad as far their head-to-head record is considered. RR and SRH have met each other on 15 &nbsp;occasions in the past, with SRH winning 8 matches and RR clinching seven games.

Stats

Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad will be playing the first game of the season at the MCA Stadium in Pune. In the last three T20 matches played at the venue, two have been won by the teams chasing.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-krunal-refrains-from-celebrating-brother-hardiks-wicket-his-reaction-goes-viral-watch-466622">Krunal refrains from celebrating brother Hardik's wicket, his reaction goes viral - WATCH</a>

Trivia

SRH might have a slight edge overall when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams but Rajasthan Royals have managed three wins in their last five meetings against Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, SRH had won in the last meeting between the two teams.

Squads

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Rahul Tripathi, Abhishek Sharma, Kane Williamson(c), Nicholas Pooran(w), Aiden Markram, Abdul Samad, Washington Sundar, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, T Natarajan, Umran Malik, Marco Jansen, Ravikumar Samarth, Shreyas Gopal, Jagadeesha Suchith, Glenn Phillips, Shashank Singh, Vishnu Vinod, Priyam Garg, Kartik Tyagi, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Saurabh Dubey

Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, Devdutt Padikkal, Sanju Samson(w/c), Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, James Neesham, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, Prasidh Krishna, Navdeep Saini, KC Cariappa, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Karun Nair, Rassie van der Dussen, Daryl Mitchell, Obed McCoy, Tejas Baroka, Kuldip Yadav, Anunay Singh, Kuldeep Sen, Dhruv Jurel, Shubham Garhwal

Kane Williamson-led Sunriers Hyderabad (SRH) will take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Tuesday (March 29).

Kane Williamson-led Sunriers Hyderabad (SRH) will take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Tuesday (March 29). The two sides will lock horns at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune and will be looking to get off to a winning start this season. Both Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad had failed to make it to the playoffs last year. SRH endured a woeful campaign as they managed to win only three out of their 14 matches to finish at the bottom of the points table last year. It was a disastrous campaign for their former captain David Warner, who was sacked from captaincy midway through the season and was left on the bench before being released ahead of the mega auction last month. SRH have revamped their squad by roping in the likes of Nicholas Pooran, Marco Jansen, Washington Sundar and Rahul Tripathi among others. SRH have been one of the most consistent franchises in the IPL over the last few years and will be looking to make it to the playoffs once again this season. On the other hand, Rajasthan Royals also parted ways with some of the big names like Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer among others but have managed to replace them with some brilliant signings. RR acquired Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal, Devdutt Padikkal, Shimron Hetmyer and R Ashwin at the mega auction last month, who can all be game-changers for the Sanju Samson-led side. Also Read: A new dawn at CSK as MS Dhoni springs a surprise for one final time Here is all you need to know about the RR vs SRH clash in IPL 2022: Head to Head: There is not much to separate Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad as far their head-to-head record is considered. RR and SRH have met each other on 15 occasions in the past, with SRH winning 8 matches and RR clinching seven games. Stats Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad will be playing the first game of the season at the MCA Stadium in Pune. In the last three T20 matches played at the venue, two have been won by the teams chasing. Also Read: Krunal refrains from celebrating brother Hardik's wicket, his reaction goes viral - WATCH Trivia SRH might have a slight edge overall when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams but Rajasthan Royals have managed three wins in their last five meetings against Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, SRH had won in the last meeting between the two teams. Squads Sunrisers Hyderabad: Rahul Tripathi, Abhishek Sharma, Kane Williamson(c), Nicholas Pooran(w), Aiden Markram, Abdul Samad, Washington Sundar, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, T Natarajan, Umran Malik, Marco Jansen, Ravikumar Samarth, Shreyas Gopal, Jagadeesha Suchith, Glenn Phillips, Shashank Singh, Vishnu Vinod, Priyam Garg, Kartik Tyagi, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Saurabh Dubey Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, Devdutt Padikkal, Sanju Samson(w/c), Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, James Neesham, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, Prasidh Krishna, Navdeep Saini, KC Cariappa, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Karun Nair, Rassie van der Dussen, Daryl Mitchell, Obed McCoy, Tejas Baroka, Kuldip Yadav, Anunay Singh, Kuldeep Sen, Dhruv Jurel, Shubham Garhwal

IPL 2022: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

Match 4 of the IPL 2022 edition will see two debutant teams in the form of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) face each other at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday evening (March 28). After much wait, the two new sides will start their respective campaigns as the ardent IPL fans will be eager to see what they bring to the table overall.

Talking about the Lucknow franchise, they will be without some big players in the initial few games. The likes of Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers and Marcus Stoinis will not be available. On the other hand, GT isn't missing a lot of players at present. They don't have Jason Roy, who pulled out of the season citing bio-bubble concerns. Alzarri Joseph will join them in a bit. However, GT's main worry is the lack of big Indian batters in the middle. All in all, it will be interesting to see how Hardik Pandya fills in the gaps and leads in his maiden season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-rohits-mi-attain-unwanted-record-after-going-down-to-dc-lose-opening-game-for-10th-time-in-a-row-466233">IPL 2022: Rohit's MI attain unwanted record after going down to DC, lose opening game for 10th time in a row</a>

Match prediction for Lucknow vs Gujarat:&nbsp;Both sides will meet each other at the Wankhede Stadium, which hosted the season-opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The pitch was a bit dump on that day and run-scoring became easier as the game progressed, due to the dew factor. The two new captains will be eager to bowl first and a lot will fall upon the finishers from both the camps if the match goes down the wire in a high-scoring affair.&nbsp;

Tough to predict a winner. Lucknow is slightly more powerful in batting and have all-rounders in their mix. Meanwhile, Gujarat have a challenging set of bowlers.

Match 4 of the IPL 2022 edition will see two debutant teams in the form of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) face each other at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday evening (March 28).

Match 4 of the IPL 2022 edition will see two debutant teams in the form of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) face each other at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday evening (March 28). After much wait, the two new sides will start their respective campaigns as the ardent IPL fans will be eager to see what they bring to the table overall. Talking about the Lucknow franchise, they will be without some big players in the initial few games. The likes of Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers and Marcus Stoinis will not be available. On the other hand, GT isn't missing a lot of players at present. They don't have Jason Roy, who pulled out of the season citing bio-bubble concerns. Alzarri Joseph will join them in a bit. However, GT's main worry is the lack of big Indian batters in the middle. All in all, it will be interesting to see how Hardik Pandya fills in the gaps and leads in his maiden season. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Rohit's MI attain unwanted record after going down to DC, lose opening game for 10th time in a row Match prediction for Lucknow vs Gujarat: Both sides will meet each other at the Wankhede Stadium, which hosted the season-opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The pitch was a bit dump on that day and run-scoring became easier as the game progressed, due to the dew factor. The two new captains will be eager to bowl first and a lot will fall upon the finishers from both the camps if the match goes down the wire in a high-scoring affair. Tough to predict a winner. Lucknow is slightly more powerful in batting and have all-rounders in their mix. Meanwhile, Gujarat have a challenging set of bowlers.

LSG vs GT, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans match?

The second game of the IPL 2022 edition saw the Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) lock horns with the Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday afternoon. In the first afternoon game of the season, the five-time winners MI franchise went down to Rishabh Pant &amp; Co. by four wickets in defence of a challening 178 at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai.

Opting to bowl first, the DC camp rode on Kuldeep Yadav's 3 for 18 as MI posted 177-5 courtesy skipper Rohit (41) and Ishan Kishan's 48-ball 81 not out. In reply, the Delhi camp lost Prithvi Shaw and Tim Seifert after good starts whereas the big guns such as Pant and Rovman Powell perished soon. At 72 for 5, not many would've given a chance to the DC camp but Axar Patel's 17-ball 38* and Lalit Yadav's 38-ball 48*, along with Shardul Thakur's 11-ball 22, propelled DC to a stunning four-wicket win.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-delhi-capitals-and-punjab-kings-register-impressive-wins-on-day-2-466111">IPL 2022: Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings register impressive wins on Day 2</a>

With this loss, MI attained an unwanted record to have conceded their tenth successive opening game of the season. The most successful IPL franchise has been winless in their first encounter of a season since 2013.

For the unversed, the last time MI won their opening game was when they hadn't even lifted their maiden title (in 2012). Back then, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh was their captain.

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At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "I thought it was a good score. It didn't look like a pitch where you can get 170+ at the start but we played in the middle and finished well. Just didn't bowl according&nbsp;to our plans. Never been the talk (of badly wanting to win the first game). We always come prepared whether it's the first game or last game. We want to win every game. Things didn't go according&nbsp;to plan but that can happen. Just need to stay close as a group and take the learnings. Disappointed with the loss but not the end."

The second game of the IPL 2022 edition saw the Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) lock horns with the Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday afternoon. In the first afternoon game of the season, the five-time winners MI franchise went down to Rishabh Pant & Co.

The second game of the IPL 2022 edition saw the Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) lock horns with the Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday afternoon. In the first afternoon game of the season, the five-time winners MI franchise went down to Rishabh Pant & Co. by four wickets in defence of a challening 178 at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai. Opting to bowl first, the DC camp rode on Kuldeep Yadav's 3 for 18 as MI posted 177-5 courtesy skipper Rohit (41) and Ishan Kishan's 48-ball 81 not out. In reply, the Delhi camp lost Prithvi Shaw and Tim Seifert after good starts whereas the big guns such as Pant and Rovman Powell perished soon. At 72 for 5, not many would've given a chance to the DC camp but Axar Patel's 17-ball 38* and Lalit Yadav's 38-ball 48*, along with Shardul Thakur's 11-ball 22, propelled DC to a stunning four-wicket win. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings register impressive wins on Day 2 With this loss, MI attained an unwanted record to have conceded their tenth successive opening game of the season. The most successful IPL franchise has been winless in their first encounter of a season since 2013. For the unversed, the last time MI won their opening game was when they hadn't even lifted their maiden title (in 2012). Back then, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh was their captain. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma fined Rs 12 lakh for slow over-rate against Delhi Capitals At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "I thought it was a good score. It didn't look like a pitch where you can get 170+ at the start but we played in the middle and finished well. Just didn't bowl according to our plans. Never been the talk (of badly wanting to win the first game). We always come prepared whether it's the first game or last game. We want to win every game. Things didn't go according to plan but that can happen. Just need to stay close as a group and take the learnings. Disappointed with the loss but not the end."

IPL 2022: Rohit's MI attain unwanted record after going down to DC, lose opening game for 10th time in a row

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri claimed he would have comfortably gone for a staggering sum of Rs 15 crore (INR 150 million) had he been part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction as a player. One of the finest all-rounders to have played for India, Shastri was known for his flamboyant style of cricket during his playing days.

Considering the demand for multi-dimensional players in T20 cricket these days and all-rounders playing key roles for their respective teams, Shastri claimed he would have raked in huge money had he been part of an IPL auction. When asked about the kind of money he would have fetched as a player at an auction, Shastri said he would have comfortably been in the Rs 15 crore bracket and would also have been the captain of the team.

“Comfortably in the 15 crore bracket. Comfortably! And captain of the side. No question. It's a no-brainer,” Shastri told ESPNCricinfo.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-want-to-emulate-my-brother-ms-dhoni-gt-captain-hardik-pandya-sends-warning-to-other-teams-466383"> 'Want to emulate my brother MS Dhoni': GT captain Hardik Pandya sends warning to other teams</a>

Shastri, an attacking batter and a left-arm spinner, had become part of the Indian cricketing folklore when he slammed six sixes in an over against Tilak Raj of&nbsp;Baroda while playing for Bombay in a Ranji Trophy match. He is also one of the few players who have 1000 runs and 100 wickets to their name in Test cricket.

Shastri played 80 Tests and 150 ODIs in his international career, amassing 3830 and 3108 runs in their two formats respectively. He also picked up a total of 280 wickets across formats in international cricket. Shastri took up commentary after retirement and has enjoyed a great stint as a commentator.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-didnt-ask-if-i-wanted-to-be-retained-never-thought-i-would-play-for-another-ipl-team-yuzvendra-chahal-466409">RCB didn't ask if I wanted to be retained, never thought I would play for another IPL team: Chahal</a>

He also went on to serve as India's Director of Cricket before taking up the role of the national team's head coach in 2017. He served as the head coach of the Indian team from 2017 to 2021 making the side a force to reckon with across formats along with captain Virat Kohli.

Shastri's stint as India's head coach came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. He has returned to commentary once again in the ongoing IPL 2022.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri claimed he would have comfortably gone for a staggering sum of Rs 15 crore (INR 150 million) had he been part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction as a player.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri claimed he would have comfortably gone for a staggering sum of Rs 15 crore (INR 150 million) had he been part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction as a player. One of the finest all-rounders to have played for India, Shastri was known for his flamboyant style of cricket during his playing days. Considering the demand for multi-dimensional players in T20 cricket these days and all-rounders playing key roles for their respective teams, Shastri claimed he would have raked in huge money had he been part of an IPL auction. When asked about the kind of money he would have fetched as a player at an auction, Shastri said he would have comfortably been in the Rs 15 crore bracket and would also have been the captain of the team. “Comfortably in the 15 crore bracket. Comfortably! And captain of the side. No question. It's a no-brainer,” Shastri told ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: 'Want to emulate my brother MS Dhoni': GT captain Hardik Pandya sends warning to other teams Shastri, an attacking batter and a left-arm spinner, had become part of the Indian cricketing folklore when he slammed six sixes in an over against Tilak Raj of Baroda while playing for Bombay in a Ranji Trophy match. He is also one of the few players who have 1000 runs and 100 wickets to their name in Test cricket. Shastri played 80 Tests and 150 ODIs in his international career, amassing 3830 and 3108 runs in their two formats respectively. He also picked up a total of 280 wickets across formats in international cricket. Shastri took up commentary after retirement and has enjoyed a great stint as a commentator. Also Read: RCB didn't ask if I wanted to be retained, never thought I would play for another IPL team: Chahal He also went on to serve as India's Director of Cricket before taking up the role of the national team's head coach in 2017. He served as the head coach of the Indian team from 2017 to 2021 making the side a force to reckon with across formats along with captain Virat Kohli. Shastri's stint as India's head coach came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. He has returned to commentary once again in the ongoing IPL 2022.

'It's a no-brainer': Ravi Shastri reveals how much money he would have got as a player in IPL auction

Indian leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was roped in by Rajasthan Royals at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction last month after being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Chahal was part of the RCB squad for total of eight seasons from IPL 2014 to 2021 before being released by the franchise ahead of the ongoing season.

One of the best spinners in the league at present, Chahal enjoyed an incredibly successful spell at RCB and became their leading wicket-taker of all time with 139 wickets in 113 matches at an average of 22.03. The leg-spinner recently opened up on parting ways with his former side and said he had never thought he would play for some other team in the IPL.

Chahal said the RCB management didn't have any discussions with him about retaining him ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction nor was there any sort of an offer from the franchise for him. Chahal revealed RCB's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson had called him before the auction to inform him that the franchise was retaining three players - Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-will-he-do-when-virat-kohli-brushed-away-parthiv-patels-suggestion-to-try-jaspit-bumrah-for-rcb-466302">When Virat Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try Jaspit Bumrah for RCB</a>

"I am emotionally attached to RCB. I never thought I would play for some other team. People and fans on social media are still asking me ‘why did you ask for this much money?’. The reality is that Mike Hesson (RCB Director of Cricket) called me and said ‘Listen Yuzi, there are three retentions’ (Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj)," Chahal said in an interview with Times of India.

"They didn’t ask me whether I wanted to be retained or tell me if they wanted to retain me. They just talked about the three retentions and I was told that – ‘we will go for you in the auction’. Neither was I asked about money nor did I get any offer of retention. But I will always be loyal to my Bangalore fans. I love them so much, no matter what," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-want-to-emulate-my-brother-ms-dhoni-gt-captain-hardik-pandya-sends-warning-to-other-teams-466383">'Want to emulate my brother MS Dhoni': GT captain Hardik Pandya sends warning to other teams</a>

Chahal now has a new side in Rajasthan Royals and is looking to repeat his heroics from the past seasons for his new team this year. The leg-spinner was roped in by RR for a sum of Rs 6.5 crore (INR 65 million) at the mega auction and is raring to repay the faith shown in him by the franchise.

"Obviously. The jersey will be different, but the Yuzi will be the same. You will see the same kind of wicket-taking performances and celebrations from me. It’s a new journey for me and I am very excited about it. Everything will be the same, only the jersey will change. The way I bowled and performed for RCB, I will do the same for RR as well. Nothing is going to change. RR showed faith in me at the auction," said Chahal, who has 139 wickets to his name in 100 matches in his IPL career.

Indian leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was roped in by Rajasthan Royals at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction last month after being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Indian leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was roped in by Rajasthan Royals at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction last month after being released by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Chahal was part of the RCB squad for total of eight seasons from IPL 2014 to 2021 before being released by the franchise ahead of the ongoing season. One of the best spinners in the league at present, Chahal enjoyed an incredibly successful spell at RCB and became their leading wicket-taker of all time with 139 wickets in 113 matches at an average of 22.03. The leg-spinner recently opened up on parting ways with his former side and said he had never thought he would play for some other team in the IPL. Chahal said the RCB management didn't have any discussions with him about retaining him ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction nor was there any sort of an offer from the franchise for him. Chahal revealed RCB's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson had called him before the auction to inform him that the franchise was retaining three players - Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj. Also Read: When Virat Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try Jaspit Bumrah for RCB "I am emotionally attached to RCB. I never thought I would play for some other team. People and fans on social media are still asking me ‘why did you ask for this much money?’. The reality is that Mike Hesson (RCB Director of Cricket) called me and said ‘Listen Yuzi, there are three retentions’ (Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj)," Chahal said in an interview with Times of India. "They didn’t ask me whether I wanted to be retained or tell me if they wanted to retain me. They just talked about the three retentions and I was told that – ‘we will go for you in the auction’. Neither was I asked about money nor did I get any offer of retention. But I will always be loyal to my Bangalore fans. I love them so much, no matter what," he added. Also Read: 'Want to emulate my brother MS Dhoni': GT captain Hardik Pandya sends warning to other teams Chahal now has a new side in Rajasthan Royals and is looking to repeat his heroics from the past seasons for his new team this year. The leg-spinner was roped in by RR for a sum of Rs 6.5 crore (INR 65 million) at the mega auction and is raring to repay the faith shown in him by the franchise. "Obviously. The jersey will be different, but the Yuzi will be the same. You will see the same kind of wicket-taking performances and celebrations from me. It’s a new journey for me and I am very excited about it. Everything will be the same, only the jersey will change. The way I bowled and performed for RCB, I will do the same for RR as well. Nothing is going to change. RR showed faith in me at the auction," said Chahal, who has 139 wickets to his name in 100 matches in his IPL career.

RCB didn't ask if I wanted to be retained, never thought I would play for another IPL team: Yuzvendra Chahal

Gujarat Titans (GT) will open their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 campaign against fellow debutants Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday (March 28). Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been roped in as the captain of the side and will be leading a team for the first time in his IPL career. Hardik has fired a warning to the other IPL sides ahead of his debut campaign as captain of the side.

Speaking in a video shared by Gujarat Titans ahead of their opening clash against Lucknow Super Giants, Hardik can be seen speaking about his ambitions for the season. The star all-rounder says he is going to aim for sporting success and would like to emulate none other than the legendary MS Dhoni.

Calling Dhoni his brother, Hardik said it's no secret that he would like to do what Dhoni has done with Chennai Super Kings as their captain over the years. Dhoni is one of the greatest leaders of all time in world cricket and is one of the most successful captains in the history of IPL with four titles and nine finals to his name. Dhoni stepped down as CSK's captain ahead of IPL 2022 to hand over the baton to Ravindra Jadeja.

While Hardik makes it clear he wants to emulate Dhoni's success as captain, he also goes on to state that he has learnt a lot from his hero Sachin Tendulkar during his time with Mumbai Indians and the lessons from the Master Blaster will help him when he leads the Titans this season.

“I am not going to tell you from I come from. You probably know that. I will tell you where I am taking you. It's towards that peak called sporting success," Hardik said in the video.

“That sweet lofty spot, where grit lives with the grind, labour leads to luck. It is a range that my brother (MS Dhoni) has scaled and I have made no attempts to hide that I want to emulate him. It’s a place that my hero (Sachin Tendulkar) has owned and told me stories of how he got there,” he added.

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Goosebumps on our debut day, courtesy captain <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> <a href="https://t.co/2qdwn5FKrc">pic.twitter.com/2qdwn5FKrc</a>
— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) <a href="https://twitter.com/gujarat_titans/status/1508300362784321541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-will-he-do-when-virat-kohli-brushed-away-parthiv-patels-suggestion-to-try-jaspit-bumrah-for-rcb-466302">'What will he do': When Virat Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try Jaspit Bumrah for RCB</a>

Referring to his brother Krunal Pandya, who is now part of the Lucknow Super Giants side and good friend KL Rahul, who will be leading Lucknow, Hardik said he is aware that he is going to come up against some of his friends and sibling when he leads Gujarat Titans but is battle-hardened for the season.

The all-rounder warned the teams that he is aware the teams are slightly worried of his ability to take the bowlers to the cleaners and turn a game around for his team when he walks out on the field with a bat in hand.

“It is a journey that will pit me sometimes against my sibling, my soulmate and many of my closest friends. And like every flight, this too may have turbulence. But hey, look at me. If I have survived being in a national storm, a ban, a gruelling back injury and more, I know what it takes,” Hardik said.

“Confidence, flamboyance, whatever you term it... I just know that when I walk out with bat in hand, my opponents get tiny little chills in their spine, knowing that I can pull off a heist," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-krunal-pandya-deepak-hooda-to-feature-lucknow-super-giants-predicted-playing-xi-for-gt-clash-466274">IPL 2022: Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda to feature? Lucknow Super Giants' predicted playing XI for GT clash</a>

Apart from Hardik, Gujarat Titans have the likes of Shubman Gill, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Shami, Lockie Ferguson and Rahul Tewatia among others in the squad who can all be game-changers on their day. 
&nbsp;

Gujarat Titans (GT) will open their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 campaign against fellow debutants Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday (March 28).

Gujarat Titans (GT) will open their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 campaign against fellow debutants Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday (March 28). Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been roped in as the captain of the side and will be leading a team for the first time in his IPL career. Hardik has fired a warning to the other IPL sides ahead of his debut campaign as captain of the side. Speaking in a video shared by Gujarat Titans ahead of their opening clash against Lucknow Super Giants, Hardik can be seen speaking about his ambitions for the season. The star all-rounder says he is going to aim for sporting success and would like to emulate none other than the legendary MS Dhoni. Calling Dhoni his brother, Hardik said it's no secret that he would like to do what Dhoni has done with Chennai Super Kings as their captain over the years. Dhoni is one of the greatest leaders of all time in world cricket and is one of the most successful captains in the history of IPL with four titles and nine finals to his name. Dhoni stepped down as CSK's captain ahead of IPL 2022 to hand over the baton to Ravindra Jadeja. While Hardik makes it clear he wants to emulate Dhoni's success as captain, he also goes on to state that he has learnt a lot from his hero Sachin Tendulkar during his time with Mumbai Indians and the lessons from the Master Blaster will help him when he leads the Titans this season. “I am not going to tell you from I come from. You probably know that. I will tell you where I am taking you. It's towards that peak called sporting success," Hardik said in the video. “That sweet lofty spot, where grit lives with the grind, labour leads to luck. It is a range that my brother (MS Dhoni) has scaled and I have made no attempts to hide that I want to emulate him. It’s a place that my hero (Sachin Tendulkar) has owned and told me stories of how he got there,” he added. Goosebumps on our debut day, courtesy captain @hardikpandya7 pic.twitter.com/2qdwn5FKrc — Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) March 28, 2022 × Also Read: 'What will he do': When Virat Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try Jaspit Bumrah for RCB Referring to his brother Krunal Pandya, who is now part of the Lucknow Super Giants side and good friend KL Rahul, who will be leading Lucknow, Hardik said he is aware that he is going to come up against some of his friends and sibling when he leads Gujarat Titans but is battle-hardened for the season. The all-rounder warned the teams that he is aware the teams are slightly worried of his ability to take the bowlers to the cleaners and turn a game around for his team when he walks out on the field with a bat in hand. “It is a journey that will pit me sometimes against my sibling, my soulmate and many of my closest friends. And like every flight, this too may have turbulence. But hey, look at me. If I have survived being in a national storm, a ban, a gruelling back injury and more, I know what it takes,” Hardik said. “Confidence, flamboyance, whatever you term it... I just know that when I walk out with bat in hand, my opponents get tiny little chills in their spine, knowing that I can pull off a heist," he added. Also Read: IPL 2022: Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda to feature? Lucknow Super Giants' predicted playing XI for GT clash Apart from Hardik, Gujarat Titans have the likes of Shubman Gill, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Shami, Lockie Ferguson and Rahul Tewatia among others in the squad who can all be game-changers on their day.

IPL 2022: 'Want to emulate my brother MS Dhoni': GT captain Hardik Pandya sends warning to other teams

KL Rahul was the skipper for Punjab Kings during the 2020 and 2021 seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL) but he was unable to guide the franchise to their first ever title.

However, ahead of the new season, the batsman decided to part ways with the franchise and he will now be leading the newcomers Lucknow Super Giants as he was retained for INR 17 crore ahead of the mega auction.<o:p></o:p>

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar gave his opinion on KL Rahul’s captaincy stint with Punjab Kings and said that things can be different for him at the Lucknow Super Giants this year.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-krunal-pandya-deepak-hooda-to-feature-lucknow-super-giants-predicted-playing-xi-for-gt-clash-466274" hreflang="en">Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda to feature? Lucknow Super Giants' predicted playing XI for GT clash</a>

"When he was the captain of Punjab Kings, he seemed to be preoccupied, maybe he was not getting the 11 that he wanted. The new franchise Lucknow Super Giants is going to be a different challenge for KL and if he can bat the way he did in previous seasons and take the team to the knockouts if not actually the finals, then he would have taken a big step forward as far as his own cricketing career is concerned," Gavaskar said when asked about KL Rahul on Star Sports show 'Gameplan'.<o:p></o:p>

The batting legend also said that Rahul along with Quinton de Kock will make a brilliant opening pair for Lucknow Super Giants and it will be a huge asset for the side in this year’s competition.<o:p></o:p>

"The best part about Quinton de Kock is the fact that he also has captaincy experience. He has been a captain of South Africa and knows all formats of the game. He knows what team building is all about because we are talking about a different team now. He will be very keen to contribute towards the team building process," Gavaskar added while talking about the opening pair.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lsg-vs-gt-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-lucknow-super-giants-vs-gujarat-titans-match-466246" hreflang="en">LSG vs GT, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans match?</a>

"KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock's right-hand and left-hand combination makes a devastating opening pair and they can get the team off to a flying start," he further stated.

<o:p>Lucknow Super Giants will begin their IPL 2022 campaign against fellow debutants Gujarat Lions on Monday.</o:p>

KL Rahul was the skipper for Punjab Kings during the 2020 and 2021 seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL) but he was unable to guide the franchise to their first ever title.

KL Rahul was the skipper for Punjab Kings during the 2020 and 2021 seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL) but he was unable to guide the franchise to their first ever title. However, ahead of the new season, the batsman decided to part ways with the franchise and he will now be leading the newcomers Lucknow Super Giants as he was retained for INR 17 crore ahead of the mega auction. Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar gave his opinion on KL Rahul’s captaincy stint with Punjab Kings and said that things can be different for him at the Lucknow Super Giants this year. Also read | Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda to feature? Lucknow Super Giants' predicted playing XI for GT clash "When he was the captain of Punjab Kings, he seemed to be preoccupied, maybe he was not getting the 11 that he wanted. The new franchise Lucknow Super Giants is going to be a different challenge for KL and if he can bat the way he did in previous seasons and take the team to the knockouts if not actually the finals, then he would have taken a big step forward as far as his own cricketing career is concerned," Gavaskar said when asked about KL Rahul on Star Sports show 'Gameplan'. The batting legend also said that Rahul along with Quinton de Kock will make a brilliant opening pair for Lucknow Super Giants and it will be a huge asset for the side in this year’s competition. "The best part about Quinton de Kock is the fact that he also has captaincy experience. He has been a captain of South Africa and knows all formats of the game. He knows what team building is all about because we are talking about a different team now. He will be very keen to contribute towards the team building process," Gavaskar added while talking about the opening pair. Also read | LSG vs GT, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans match? "KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock's right-hand and left-hand combination makes a devastating opening pair and they can get the team off to a flying start," he further stated. Lucknow Super Giants will begin their IPL 2022 campaign against fellow debutants Gujarat Lions on Monday.

IPL 2022: Sunil Gavaskar opines on KL Rahul's captaincy stint with Punjab Kings

The Indian Premier League (IPL) started way back in 2008. Since the inaugural edition, the cash-rich league has grown from strength to strength and created a huge market for the expansion of T20 cricket across the globe. It led to the start of various T20 leagues worldwide and, thus, has been a stepping stone in the rise of the shortest format of the game.

After IPL, the likes of Pakistan Super League (PSL), Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Big Bash League (BBL), etc. have come into existence. Many times debate sparks as to which is the biggest league among all. However, most experts of the game and ardent fans believe IPL remains a level higher than all. Recently, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria made a big claim on IPL, comparing it with PSL.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasim-jaffer-michael-vaughan-engage-in-hilarious-banter-after-england-lost-test-series-vs-west-indies-466322">Wasim Jaffer, Michael Vaughan engage in hilarious banter after England lose Test series vs West Indies</a>

"Being a very professional event, IPL is providing so many talents to Indian cricket. And it’s getting better and better with each passing season, while PSL is doing hardly anything for Pakistan cricket. If some player performs well in PSL, the unprofessional approach of Pakistan Cricket Board mars his chances of getting into the national side," Kaneria said.

Kaneria added, "See, there are no favourites in the T20 format. But if we talk about the combination, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians are good. There are two new teams in this edition, and you cannot take them lightly. IPL is a tournament in which all the cricketers want to play. You see, many players from South Africa took leave from their national side to play in the IPL. So this is turning out to be a big event every single year."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lsg-vs-gt-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-lucknow-super-giants-vs-gujarat-titans-match-466246">LSG vs GT, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans match?</a>

Talking about IPL 2022, which commenced on March 26, the 15th season is off to a flier with two close finishes in the three games completed so far. On Monday (March 28), the two debutant teams such as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will lock horns with each other at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) started way back in 2008. Since the inaugural edition, the cash-rich league has grown from strength to strength and created a huge market for the expansion of T20 cricket across the globe.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) started way back in 2008. Since the inaugural edition, the cash-rich league has grown from strength to strength and created a huge market for the expansion of T20 cricket across the globe. It led to the start of various T20 leagues worldwide and, thus, has been a stepping stone in the rise of the shortest format of the game. After IPL, the likes of Pakistan Super League (PSL), Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Big Bash League (BBL), etc. have come into existence. Many times debate sparks as to which is the biggest league among all. However, most experts of the game and ardent fans believe IPL remains a level higher than all. Recently, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria made a big claim on IPL, comparing it with PSL. ALSO READ | Wasim Jaffer, Michael Vaughan engage in hilarious banter after England lose Test series vs West Indies "Being a very professional event, IPL is providing so many talents to Indian cricket. And it’s getting better and better with each passing season, while PSL is doing hardly anything for Pakistan cricket. If some player performs well in PSL, the unprofessional approach of Pakistan Cricket Board mars his chances of getting into the national side," Kaneria said. Kaneria added, "See, there are no favourites in the T20 format. But if we talk about the combination, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians are good. There are two new teams in this edition, and you cannot take them lightly. IPL is a tournament in which all the cricketers want to play. You see, many players from South Africa took leave from their national side to play in the IPL. So this is turning out to be a big event every single year." ALSO READ | LSG vs GT, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans match? Talking about IPL 2022, which commenced on March 26, the 15th season is off to a flier with two close finishes in the three games completed so far. On Monday (March 28), the two debutant teams such as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will lock horns with each other at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

IPL providing so many talents to Indian cricket, PSL hardly doing anything for Pakistan, says Dinesh Kaneria

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been handed a huge blow amid their ongoing campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh's participation in the tournament is in doubt after an injury. Marsh has pulled out of Australia's upcoming limited-overs series against Pakistan due to a hip injury.

Marsh was part of the Australian squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series and the one-off T20I against Pakistan. However, the all-rounder will now miss the entire leg. The timing of his injury has also raised concerns over his participation in the ongoing IPL 2022.

The Aussie all-rounder was roped in by Delhi Capitals for a sum of Rs&nbsp;6.5 crore (INR 65 million) at the mega auction last month and was expected to play a key role for the franchise this season. However, his injury has added to Delhi Capitals' woes in the ongoing season.

Delhi Capitals were already set to miss the services of both David Warner and Marsh for the first couple of weeks due to Australia's tour of Pakistan. However, an injury to Marsh can now force the all-rounder to miss the entire season for DC. In case Marsh is ruled out from the entire IPL 2022, it will be a big blow for DC, who already lack quality all-rounders in their squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-tim-seifert-pulls-off-stunning-catch-to-send-kieron-pollard-packing-in-mi-clash-watch-466008">Delhi Capitals' Tim Seifert pulls off stunning catch to send Kieron Pollard packing in MI clash - WATCH</a>

In their opening game against Mumbai Indians on Sunday, Delhi Capitals played only two overseas stars in their XI due to the unavailability of the players. While South African pacer Anrich Nortje is not yet fully fit to feature in the tournament, pacers Lungi Ngidi and Mustafizur Rahman recently joined the squad after the conclusion of Bangladesh's ODI series against South Africa.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-will-he-do-when-virat-kohli-brushed-away-parthiv-patels-suggestion-to-try-jaspit-bumrah-for-rcb-466302">'What will he do': When Virat Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try Jaspit Bumrah for RCB</a>

Delhi Capitals will be hoping for Marsh to recover in time and be available for selection as soon as possible. However, if the Australian all-rounder fails to recover in time, this will be the third successive IPL&nbsp;season he will not be playing for his side. Marsh had injured his ankle while playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad in their first game in IPL 2020 and was ruled out for the entire season.

He missed the tournament last year citing bio-bubble fatigue and is now in line to miss his third straight IPL season.

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been handed a huge blow amid their ongoing campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh's participation in the tournament is in doubt after an injury.

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been handed a huge blow amid their ongoing campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh's participation in the tournament is in doubt after an injury. Marsh has pulled out of Australia's upcoming limited-overs series against Pakistan due to a hip injury. Marsh was part of the Australian squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series and the one-off T20I against Pakistan. However, the all-rounder will now miss the entire leg. The timing of his injury has also raised concerns over his participation in the ongoing IPL 2022. The Aussie all-rounder was roped in by Delhi Capitals for a sum of Rs 6.5 crore (INR 65 million) at the mega auction last month and was expected to play a key role for the franchise this season. However, his injury has added to Delhi Capitals' woes in the ongoing season. Delhi Capitals were already set to miss the services of both David Warner and Marsh for the first couple of weeks due to Australia's tour of Pakistan. However, an injury to Marsh can now force the all-rounder to miss the entire season for DC. In case Marsh is ruled out from the entire IPL 2022, it will be a big blow for DC, who already lack quality all-rounders in their squad. Also Read: Delhi Capitals' Tim Seifert pulls off stunning catch to send Kieron Pollard packing in MI clash - WATCH In their opening game against Mumbai Indians on Sunday, Delhi Capitals played only two overseas stars in their XI due to the unavailability of the players. While South African pacer Anrich Nortje is not yet fully fit to feature in the tournament, pacers Lungi Ngidi and Mustafizur Rahman recently joined the squad after the conclusion of Bangladesh's ODI series against South Africa. Also Read: 'What will he do': When Virat Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try Jaspit Bumrah for RCB Delhi Capitals will be hoping for Marsh to recover in time and be available for selection as soon as possible. However, if the Australian all-rounder fails to recover in time, this will be the third successive IPL season he will not be playing for his side. Marsh had injured his ankle while playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad in their first game in IPL 2020 and was ruled out for the entire season. He missed the tournament last year citing bio-bubble fatigue and is now in line to miss his third straight IPL season.

Huge blow for Delhi Capitals as Mitchell Marsh's IPL participation in doubt after hip injury

Gujarat Lions will be looking to start their debut Indian Premier League (IPL) season with a win as they take on fellow newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in Mumbai on Monday. While Hardik Pandya will be leading the side this year, spinner Rashid Khan was appointed vice-captain on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

While most IPL sides are missing major names in their squads at the moment, Gujarat Lions have only one significant absence – West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph who is currently playing for the national side. He is expected to land in India this week and will be available for their next game.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-krunal-pandya-deepak-hooda-to-feature-lucknow-super-giants-predicted-playing-xi-for-gt-clash-466274" hreflang="en">IPL 2022: Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda to feature? Lucknow Super Giants' predicted playing XI for GT clash</a>

Shubman Gill, who was the third player retained by the franchise besides Hardik and Rashid, is expected to open the batting and he will most likely be accompanied by Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The Afghanistan international was picked after England’s Jason Roy opted out of the competition.<o:p></o:p>

With Matthew Wade also there in the squad, he can be a good option for the side but Wriddhiman Saha may get the nod ahead of him for the first game and he will be joined by Gurkeerat Singh Mann in the middle order along with South Africa’s David Miller who will be used as an aggressive pick.<o:p></o:p>

In all-rounders, skipper Hardik and Vijay Shankar will be medium pace options for the side while big money signing Rahul Tewatia will be a good spin option along with his effective batting.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/holder-to-stoinis-overseas-stars-who-will-miss-lucknow-super-giants-vs-gujarat-titans-clash-in-ipl-2022-466263" hreflang="en">Holder to Stoinis: Overseas stars who will miss Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans clash in IPL 2022</a>

In the spin department, Gujarat Lions boast of a formidable fast bowling duo of Lockie Ferguson and Mohammed Shami while a lot of responsibility will fall on Rashid Khan to provide crucial wickets.<o:p></o:p>

Gujarat Lions Predicted XI: Shubman Gill, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Wriddhiman Saha, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, David Miller, Hardik Pandya, Vijay Shankar, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Shami<o:p></o:p>

Gujarat Lions will be looking to start their debut Indian Premier League (IPL) season with a win as they take on fellow newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in Mumbai on Monday.

Gujarat Lions will be looking to start their debut Indian Premier League (IPL) season with a win as they take on fellow newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in Mumbai on Monday. While Hardik Pandya will be leading the side this year, spinner Rashid Khan was appointed vice-captain on Sunday. While most IPL sides are missing major names in their squads at the moment, Gujarat Lions have only one significant absence – West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph who is currently playing for the national side. He is expected to land in India this week and will be available for their next game. Also read | IPL 2022: Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda to feature? Lucknow Super Giants' predicted playing XI for GT clash Shubman Gill, who was the third player retained by the franchise besides Hardik and Rashid, is expected to open the batting and he will most likely be accompanied by Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The Afghanistan international was picked after England’s Jason Roy opted out of the competition. With Matthew Wade also there in the squad, he can be a good option for the side but Wriddhiman Saha may get the nod ahead of him for the first game and he will be joined by Gurkeerat Singh Mann in the middle order along with South Africa’s David Miller who will be used as an aggressive pick. In all-rounders, skipper Hardik and Vijay Shankar will be medium pace options for the side while big money signing Rahul Tewatia will be a good spin option along with his effective batting. Also read | Holder to Stoinis: Overseas stars who will miss Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans clash in IPL 2022 In the spin department, Gujarat Lions boast of a formidable fast bowling duo of Lockie Ferguson and Mohammed Shami while a lot of responsibility will fall on Rashid Khan to provide crucial wickets. Gujarat Lions Predicted XI: Shubman Gill, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Wriddhiman Saha, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, David Miller, Hardik Pandya, Vijay Shankar, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Shami

Who will open with Gill? Gujarat Titans predicted XI for IPL 2022 game against Lucknow Super Giants

Jasprit Bumrah is currently one of the best pacers in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Mumbai Indians (MI) fast bowler has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the league over the years and has been delivering brilliant performances with the ball consistently for the five-time champions.

Bumrah, who made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians in the year 2013, has come a long way and has established his credentials as one of the best in the world. Bumrah might have made his IPl debut in the year 2013 but he got to play only two matches that season.

Bumrah enjoyed a breakthrough season in IPL 2016 where he played regularly for Mumbai Indians and ended up with 15 wickets in 14 matches. He has never looked back since and is currently an integral member of the Indian pace attack across all formats as well.

However, Bumrah could have ended up at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and not Mumbai Indians had former RCB skipper Virat Kohli listened to his former RCB teammate Parthiv Patel's advice back in 2014. Parthiv, who used to captain Gujarat at the time in domestic cricket, had seen Bumrah play and rated the youngster highly.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/holder-to-stoinis-overseas-stars-who-will-miss-lucknow-super-giants-vs-gujarat-titans-clash-in-ipl-2022-466263">&nbsp;Holder to Stoinis: Overseas stars who will miss Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans clash in IPL 2022</a>

Parthiv was part of the RCB squad in the IPL back then and suggested to Kohli that he should try Bumrah for the franchise. However, Kohli didn't take his advice seriously and brushed off the suggestion saying that players like Bumrah can't do much for the team.

“In 2014, when I was at RCB, I told Kohli there’s this bowler named Bumrah. Have a look at him. Virat replied saying ‘Chhor na yaar. Ye Bumrah-Vumrah kya karenge?’ (Leave it. What will such players do?),” Parthiv told Cricbuzz.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-krunal-pandya-deepak-hooda-to-feature-lucknow-super-giants-predicted-playing-xi-for-gt-clash-466274">Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda to feature? Lucknow Super Giants' predicted playing XI for GT clash</a>

When Bumrah broke into the Gujarat Ranji side, he was mentored by Parthiv in the initial years. The former RCB wicket-keeper batter revealed Bumrah struggled to make an impression early in his career but worked hard to stand where he is today.

&nbsp;“When he was first picked, Bumrah played Ranji Trophy for the first 2-3 years. 2013 was his first year, and he didn't have a good season in 2014. In 2015, it was so bad that there were discussions going on that he might have to be sent back home mid-season. But, he slowly began improving and Mumbai Indians really backed him. It was his own hard work and such backing that really brought out the best in him,” Parthiv added.&nbsp;

Bumrah has so far played 107 matches for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and has 130 wickets to his name at an&nbsp;average of 23.37. He was retained by Mumbai Indians for a sum of Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million) ahead of the ongoing season.

Jasprit Bumrah is currently one of the best pacers in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Mumbai Indians (MI) fast bowler has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the league over the years and has been delivering brilliant performances with the ball consistently for the five-time champions.

Jasprit Bumrah is currently one of the best pacers in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Mumbai Indians (MI) fast bowler has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the league over the years and has been delivering brilliant performances with the ball consistently for the five-time champions. Bumrah, who made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians in the year 2013, has come a long way and has established his credentials as one of the best in the world. Bumrah might have made his IPl debut in the year 2013 but he got to play only two matches that season. Bumrah enjoyed a breakthrough season in IPL 2016 where he played regularly for Mumbai Indians and ended up with 15 wickets in 14 matches. He has never looked back since and is currently an integral member of the Indian pace attack across all formats as well. However, Bumrah could have ended up at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and not Mumbai Indians had former RCB skipper Virat Kohli listened to his former RCB teammate Parthiv Patel's advice back in 2014. Parthiv, who used to captain Gujarat at the time in domestic cricket, had seen Bumrah play and rated the youngster highly. Also Read: Holder to Stoinis: Overseas stars who will miss Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans clash in IPL 2022 Parthiv was part of the RCB squad in the IPL back then and suggested to Kohli that he should try Bumrah for the franchise. However, Kohli didn't take his advice seriously and brushed off the suggestion saying that players like Bumrah can't do much for the team. “In 2014, when I was at RCB, I told Kohli there’s this bowler named Bumrah. Have a look at him. Virat replied saying ‘Chhor na yaar. Ye Bumrah-Vumrah kya karenge?’ (Leave it. What will such players do?),” Parthiv told Cricbuzz. Also Read: Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda to feature? Lucknow Super Giants' predicted playing XI for GT clash When Bumrah broke into the Gujarat Ranji side, he was mentored by Parthiv in the initial years. The former RCB wicket-keeper batter revealed Bumrah struggled to make an impression early in his career but worked hard to stand where he is today. “When he was first picked, Bumrah played Ranji Trophy for the first 2-3 years. 2013 was his first year, and he didn't have a good season in 2014. In 2015, it was so bad that there were discussions going on that he might have to be sent back home mid-season. But, he slowly began improving and Mumbai Indians really backed him. It was his own hard work and such backing that really brought out the best in him,” Parthiv added. Bumrah has so far played 107 matches for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and has 130 wickets to his name at an average of 23.37. He was retained by Mumbai Indians for a sum of Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million) ahead of the ongoing season.

'What will he do': When Virat Kohli brushed away Parthiv Patel's suggestion to try Jaspit Bumrah for RCB

The cricketing action will continue on IPL 2022's second day itself. On Sunday (March 27), the 15th season will see its first doubleheader as Mumbai Indians (MI) face Delhi Capitals in the afternoon game whereas two new-look teams in the form of Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) will lock horns with each other in the evening encounter.

Talking about the second game of the doubleheader, it will be an exciting contest between two teams who have changed a whole lot since the last season. For Punjab, they will have a new captain once again after KL Rahul left the franchise to join the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Mayank will step into his shoes and has a power-packed squad, comprising the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Odean Smith, Rahul Chahar, etc. Jonny Bairstow is currently involved in England's third and final Test versus West Indies in the Caribbean island and, hence, his absence will be felt. Nonetheless, PBKS have most of their players which should keep them in good stead.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the perennial underachievers RCB will be led by Faf du Plessis. He steps into the big shoes of Virat Kohli, who resigned from the top post after IPL 2021. Faf will have Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik's experience along with him but the Aussie all-rounder will miss the opening few games due to his marriage. Bengaluru still have enough firepower to rely upon and will give a tough competition to the Punjab line-up.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kkr-begin-ipl-2022-campaign-with-six-wicket-victory-over-csk-465818">KKR begin IPL 2022 campaign with six-wicket victory over CSK</a>

It will be interesting to see how the bowlers from both sides utilise the DY Patil Stadium's surface, which has been used as a football ground of late. The captains will also be put to test to rotate their bowlers and set a template for their batters on a pitch which can have anything on offer.&nbsp;

Match prediction for RCB vs PBKS: The surface at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai continues to be the biggest talking point ahead of the season. Being in the early days of IPL 2022, not much can be predicted on how it will come into play. If one analyses the two teams on paper, Punjab pack a solid punch, however, it remains to be seen how well they gel and show up on the field versus the three-time runners-up.

In head-to-head, Punjab lead RCB 15-13.&nbsp;

The cricketing action will continue on IPL 2022's second day itself. On Sunday (March 27), the 15th season will see its first doubleheader as Mumbai Indians (MI) face Delhi Capitals in the afternoon game whereas two new-look teams in the form of Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) will lock horns with each other in the evening encounter.

The cricketing action will continue on IPL 2022's second day itself. On Sunday (March 27), the 15th season will see its first doubleheader as Mumbai Indians (MI) face Delhi Capitals in the afternoon game whereas two new-look teams in the form of Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) will lock horns with each other in the evening encounter. Talking about the second game of the doubleheader, it will be an exciting contest between two teams who have changed a whole lot since the last season. For Punjab, they will have a new captain once again after KL Rahul left the franchise to join the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Mayank will step into his shoes and has a power-packed squad, comprising the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Odean Smith, Rahul Chahar, etc. Jonny Bairstow is currently involved in England's third and final Test versus West Indies in the Caribbean island and, hence, his absence will be felt. Nonetheless, PBKS have most of their players which should keep them in good stead. On the other hand, the perennial underachievers RCB will be led by Faf du Plessis. He steps into the big shoes of Virat Kohli, who resigned from the top post after IPL 2021. Faf will have Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik's experience along with him but the Aussie all-rounder will miss the opening few games due to his marriage. Bengaluru still have enough firepower to rely upon and will give a tough competition to the Punjab line-up. ALSO READ | KKR begin IPL 2022 campaign with six-wicket victory over CSK It will be interesting to see how the bowlers from both sides utilise the DY Patil Stadium's surface, which has been used as a football ground of late. The captains will also be put to test to rotate their bowlers and set a template for their batters on a pitch which can have anything on offer. Match prediction for RCB vs PBKS: The surface at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai continues to be the biggest talking point ahead of the season. Being in the early days of IPL 2022, not much can be predicted on how it will come into play. If one analyses the two teams on paper, Punjab pack a solid punch, however, it remains to be seen how well they gel and show up on the field versus the three-time runners-up. In head-to-head, Punjab lead RCB 15-13.

RCB vs PBKS, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Punjab Kings match?

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