Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) IPL 2021 campaign came to an end with the three-time runners-up losing to the two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Eliminator on Monday (October 11), at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.&nbsp;

Opting to bat first, Kohli &amp; Co. were off to a decent start as the openers put on a 49-run stand. However, Sunil Narine's 4 for 21 restricted RCB to 138-7. In reply, KKR chased down the total with four wickets and two balls to spare. As RCB bowed out of the mega event in the UAE, Kohli's captaincy tenure also came to an end as the 32-year-old had already announced that the ongoing season will be his last as the captain of his franchise.&nbsp;

Following RCB's missed opportunities in IPL 14, former England captain Michael Vaughan opined on Kohli's tenure as RCB captain.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-glenn-maxwell-absolutely-disgusted-by-social-media-trolls-reacts-strongly-after-rcbs-elimination-420091">IPL 2021: Glenn Maxwell 'absolutely disgusted' by social media trolls, reacts strongly after RCB's elimination</a>

Vaughan said while speaking to Cricbuzz, "His legacy as captain in IPL cricket would be one that didn’t win. That’s what it’s about – high-level sport is about getting over the line, winning trophies, particularly when you’re at the standard of what Virat Kohli is at. I’m certainly not saying that he is, but he will see himself as a failure in IPL captaincy – because he is such a driven player and person – since he’s not got that trophy in his hands."

“In terms of what Virat is doing with the Test team and Test match cricket, developing the Indian team, he is terrific. You’d have to say and be honest, that in one-day cricket and T20 for the national side and the Royal Challengers Bangalore, he has fallen a long way short. The talent and the squad that he has to work with is right up there with the best. The RCB team over the years is very top heavy with the batting. This year, with the quality of Maxwell and Harshal Patel and Chahal, they had the bowling to match the batting, and yet they have fallen short,” he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-given-my-120-to-rcb-will-continue-doing-so-as-a-player-virat-kohli-after-final-game-as-captain-420021">I have given my 120% to RCB, will continue doing so as a player: Virat Kohli after final game as captain</a>

After RCB's loss, Kohli made it clear that his loyalty will always remain with the RCB franchise and he cannot see himself representing any other franchise in the IPL. He told the broadcasters, "It is a great time to regroup and restructure for the next three years with people who will take this ahead. [On him staying with RCB]&nbsp;Yes definitely, I don't see myself playing anywhere else. Loyalty matters more to me than worldly pleasures. I would be in the RCB till the last day I play in the IPL."

Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) IPL 2021 campaign came to an end with the three-time runners-up losing to the two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Eliminator on Monday (October 11), at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.

Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) IPL 2021 campaign came to an end with the three-time runners-up losing to the two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Eliminator on Monday (October 11), at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. Opting to bat first, Kohli & Co. were off to a decent start as the openers put on a 49-run stand. However, Sunil Narine's 4 for 21 restricted RCB to 138-7. In reply, KKR chased down the total with four wickets and two balls to spare. As RCB bowed out of the mega event in the UAE, Kohli's captaincy tenure also came to an end as the 32-year-old had already announced that the ongoing season will be his last as the captain of his franchise. Following RCB's missed opportunities in IPL 14, former England captain Michael Vaughan opined on Kohli's tenure as RCB captain. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Glenn Maxwell 'absolutely disgusted' by social media trolls, reacts strongly after RCB's elimination Vaughan said while speaking to Cricbuzz, "His legacy as captain in IPL cricket would be one that didn’t win. That’s what it’s about – high-level sport is about getting over the line, winning trophies, particularly when you’re at the standard of what Virat Kohli is at. I’m certainly not saying that he is, but he will see himself as a failure in IPL captaincy – because he is such a driven player and person – since he’s not got that trophy in his hands." “In terms of what Virat is doing with the Test team and Test match cricket, developing the Indian team, he is terrific. You’d have to say and be honest, that in one-day cricket and T20 for the national side and the Royal Challengers Bangalore, he has fallen a long way short. The talent and the squad that he has to work with is right up there with the best. The RCB team over the years is very top heavy with the batting. This year, with the quality of Maxwell and Harshal Patel and Chahal, they had the bowling to match the batting, and yet they have fallen short,” he further added. ALSO READ | I have given my 120% to RCB, will continue doing so as a player: Virat Kohli after final game as captain After RCB's loss, Kohli made it clear that his loyalty will always remain with the RCB franchise and he cannot see himself representing any other franchise in the IPL. He told the broadcasters, "It is a great time to regroup and restructure for the next three years with people who will take this ahead. [On him staying with RCB] Yes definitely, I don't see myself playing anywhere else. Loyalty matters more to me than worldly pleasures. I would be in the RCB till the last day I play in the IPL."

'He will see himself as a failure' - Michael Vaughan opines on Virat Kohli's tenure as RCB captain

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) qualified for the IPL 2021 playoffs, with two games to spare. The three-time runners-up completed the league stage at the third position, with 18 points under their belt, and are aiming to win their maiden IPL championship as Kohli is set to resign as the franchise's captain post the ongoing season in the UAE.

Ahead of the Eliminator between RCB and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Monday (October 11), former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar named RCB's biggest match-winner in this season. Manjrekar feels Aussie all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has been the biggest reason behind RCB's dominance.

For the unversed, Maxwell has 498 runs in 14 games -- at an average of 45.3 -- and a strike-rate of 147 for the Bengaluru camp. In addition, he has chipped in with the ball by claiming 3 wickets at an economy of 8.46.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-reveals-why-he-quit-rcb-captaincy-didnt-want-to-be-dishonest-towards-my-responsibility-419888">Virat Kohli reveals why he quit RCB captaincy: Didn't want to be dishonest towards my responsibility</a>

Thus, Manjrekar told in a video posted on his Instagram handle, "When you look at Bangalore, you can't help but feel that their progress and their domination has been on the back of one man - Glenn Maxwell. He has been hugely important to the RCB this season."

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"Some might think that it is unfair but when you look at the bowling, it is slightly liable to go for runs. Because when you look at someone like Dan Christian, adding a bit of value only with the ball and nothing with the bat. Mohammed Siraj is not the T20 kind of Burmah-type reliable bowler. When you look at Chahal, the size of Sharjah Stadium makes him more vulnerable. That is a bit of an issue. Harshal Patel might be the key here because he likes bowling on these surfaces."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-receive-yel-lovely-welcome-at-team-hotel-after-thrilling-win-over-dc-to-reach-9th-ipl-final-watch-419979">CSK receive Yel-lovely welcome at team hotel after thrilling win over DC to reach 9th IPL final - WATCH</a>

RCB are looking to beat KKR in the Eliminator and then face Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 2 -- who remain winless versus Bengaluru this season -- to enter the IPL 2021 final and lock horns with MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on October 15 in Dubai.

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) qualified for the IPL 2021 playoffs, with two games to spare. The three-time runners-up completed the league stage at the third position, with 18 points under their belt, and are aiming to win their maiden IPL championship as Kohli is set to resign as the franchise's captain post the ongoing season in the UAE.

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) qualified for the IPL 2021 playoffs, with two games to spare. The three-time runners-up completed the league stage at the third position, with 18 points under their belt, and are aiming to win their maiden IPL championship as Kohli is set to resign as the franchise's captain post the ongoing season in the UAE. Ahead of the Eliminator between RCB and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Monday (October 11), former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar named RCB's biggest match-winner in this season. Manjrekar feels Aussie all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has been the biggest reason behind RCB's dominance. For the unversed, Maxwell has 498 runs in 14 games -- at an average of 45.3 -- and a strike-rate of 147 for the Bengaluru camp. In addition, he has chipped in with the ball by claiming 3 wickets at an economy of 8.46. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli reveals why he quit RCB captaincy: Didn't want to be dishonest towards my responsibility Thus, Manjrekar told in a video posted on his Instagram handle, "When you look at Bangalore, you can't help but feel that their progress and their domination has been on the back of one man - Glenn Maxwell. He has been hugely important to the RCB this season." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaysphotos) × "Some might think that it is unfair but when you look at the bowling, it is slightly liable to go for runs. Because when you look at someone like Dan Christian, adding a bit of value only with the ball and nothing with the bat. Mohammed Siraj is not the T20 kind of Burmah-type reliable bowler. When you look at Chahal, the size of Sharjah Stadium makes him more vulnerable. That is a bit of an issue. Harshal Patel might be the key here because he likes bowling on these surfaces." ALSO READ | CSK receive Yel-lovely welcome at team hotel after thrilling win over DC to reach 9th IPL final - WATCH RCB are looking to beat KKR in the Eliminator and then face Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 2 -- who remain winless versus Bengaluru this season -- to enter the IPL 2021 final and lock horns with MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on October 15 in Dubai.

'RCB's domination has been...' - Sanjay Manjrekar names Virat Kohli & Co.'s biggest match-winner in IPL 2021

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had the edge over MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) when they squared off with each other in Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2021 playoffs on Sunday evening (October 10), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Opting to bowl first, CSK managed to restrict DC to 172-5 riding as the one-time runners-up rode on half-centuries from Prithvi Shaw (60), Pant's 51 not out and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, CSK were oncourse for a win being well-placed at 113-1 courtesy a century-stand Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (63).&nbsp;

Nonetheless, Tom Curran's regular strikes in the 14th over, followed by Kagiso Rabada's tight 15th over, led to DC's comeback. While Anrich Nortje also gave away only 8 runs in the 16th over, DC missed the plot from thereon by not bowling Kagiso Rabada as the South African ended with 3-0-23-0.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ms-dhoni-retires-he-will-be-remembered-as-one-of-the-greatest-finishers-ever-ricky-ponting-419942">When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting</a>

Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir decoded the reason behind DC's loss and&nbsp;explained, "I’ve always believed that the 19th over is the most important over. Although Avesh Khan got rid of Ruturaj Gaikwad, you have to go with your best death bowler and it had to be Rabada, no doubt about it."

“Avesh bowled the 17th, Nortje 18th, Rabada 19th, and Tom Curran 20th – that should have been the sequence. Going with Avesh for the 17th and 19th overs wasn’t the right decision. Yes. Rabada isn’t in the best of form, but you’ve got to back him to do the job as he’s playing continuously and he’s a world-class bowler,“ he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-csk-captain-ms-dhoni-equals-ravindra-jadeja-in-elite-list-after-qualifier-1-blitz-vs-dc-419902">IPL 2021: CSK captain MS Dhoni equals Ravindra Jadeja in elite list after Qualifier 1 blitz vs DC</a>

Many believe Rabada could've&nbsp;tested an out-of-form Dhoni in the last over, where CSK needed 13 off 6 balls, with his extra pace and been a more potent threat, as compared to English all-rounder Curran.

With the loss, DC's campaign isn't over as they await the winner of the Eliminator -- between KKR and Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- in Qualifier 2 (at Sharjah) whereas Dhoni &amp; Co. have entered their ninth IPL final.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had the edge over MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) when they squared off with each other in Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2021 playoffs on Sunday evening (October 10), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had the edge over MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) when they squared off with each other in Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2021 playoffs on Sunday evening (October 10), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Opting to bowl first, CSK managed to restrict DC to 172-5 riding as the one-time runners-up rode on half-centuries from Prithvi Shaw (60), Pant's 51 not out and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, CSK were oncourse for a win being well-placed at 113-1 courtesy a century-stand Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (63). Nonetheless, Tom Curran's regular strikes in the 14th over, followed by Kagiso Rabada's tight 15th over, led to DC's comeback. While Anrich Nortje also gave away only 8 runs in the 16th over, DC missed the plot from thereon by not bowling Kagiso Rabada as the South African ended with 3-0-23-0. ALSO READ | When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir decoded the reason behind DC's loss and explained, "I’ve always believed that the 19th over is the most important over. Although Avesh Khan got rid of Ruturaj Gaikwad, you have to go with your best death bowler and it had to be Rabada, no doubt about it." “Avesh bowled the 17th, Nortje 18th, Rabada 19th, and Tom Curran 20th – that should have been the sequence. Going with Avesh for the 17th and 19th overs wasn’t the right decision. Yes. Rabada isn’t in the best of form, but you’ve got to back him to do the job as he’s playing continuously and he’s a world-class bowler,“ he added. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: CSK captain MS Dhoni equals Ravindra Jadeja in elite list after Qualifier 1 blitz vs DC Many believe Rabada could've tested an out-of-form Dhoni in the last over, where CSK needed 13 off 6 balls, with his extra pace and been a more potent threat, as compared to English all-rounder Curran. With the loss, DC's campaign isn't over as they await the winner of the Eliminator -- between KKR and Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- in Qualifier 2 (at Sharjah) whereas Dhoni & Co. have entered their ninth IPL final.

IPL 2021: Gautam Gambhir decodes reason for Rishabh Pant-led DC's Qualifier 1 loss to CSK

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be up against two-time champions the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Eliminator of the IPL 2021 edition. Both teams have qualified for the playoffs in quite a contrasting manner.

While&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bangalore were consistent throughout the league, Kolkata Knight Riders saw a complete turnaround in the UAE leg.

Kohli, who has decided to step down as captain after this season, guided RCB to the finals in 2016, as well as to the playoffs twice in 2015 and 2020, and he wants to end his captainship on a good note.

On the other hand, for Morgan, it will&nbsp;about reclaiming KKR's lost dominance, a team that enjoyed great success under Gautam Gambhir, who led them to two IPL wins in three years between 2012 and 2014.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhoni-gives-autographed-ball-to-a-teary-eyed-young-girl-after-csks-qualifier-1-win-vs-dc-watch-419817">IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch</a>&nbsp;

Both teams won one game against each other in the league. While KKR would come out as confident as it gave RCB a humiliating defeat in the last encounter whereas RCB would also be brimming with confidence as it defeated Delhi Capitals which is considered as the strongest team in the last league game

There are some big names that will feature in IPL’s Eliminator such as Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Yuzvendra Chahal, Eoin Morgan, Dinesh Karthik, Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, etc. Overall, an equal encounter between both the teams is on the cards as two heavyweight sides are set to face each other&nbsp;at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:&nbsp;

Where is the IPL 2021 Eliminator match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders taking place?

The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.

What time does the IPL 2021 Eliminator match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin?

The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begins at 7:30 PM IST on Monday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-eliminator-match-prediction-who-will-win-royal-challengers-bangalore-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-tie-419868">IPL 2021 Eliminator, match prediction: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders tie?</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders?

The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3, and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between KKR vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be up against two-time champions the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Eliminator of the IPL 2021 edition.

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be up against two-time champions the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Eliminator of the IPL 2021 edition. Both teams have qualified for the playoffs in quite a contrasting manner. While Royal Challengers Bangalore were consistent throughout the league, Kolkata Knight Riders saw a complete turnaround in the UAE leg. Kohli, who has decided to step down as captain after this season, guided RCB to the finals in 2016, as well as to the playoffs twice in 2015 and 2020, and he wants to end his captainship on a good note. On the other hand, for Morgan, it will about reclaiming KKR's lost dominance, a team that enjoyed great success under Gautam Gambhir, who led them to two IPL wins in three years between 2012 and 2014. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch Both teams won one game against each other in the league. While KKR would come out as confident as it gave RCB a humiliating defeat in the last encounter whereas RCB would also be brimming with confidence as it defeated Delhi Capitals which is considered as the strongest team in the last league game There are some big names that will feature in IPL’s Eliminator such as Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Yuzvendra Chahal, Eoin Morgan, Dinesh Karthik, Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, etc. Overall, an equal encounter between both the teams is on the cards as two heavyweight sides are set to face each other at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the IPL 2021 Eliminator match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders taking place? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. What time does the IPL 2021 Eliminator match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begins at 7:30 PM IST on Monday. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Eliminator, match prediction: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders tie? Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3, and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between KKR vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

IPL 2021, RCB vs KKR Eliminator, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Royal Challengers vs Knight Riders?

IPL 2021 playoffs round started with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) facing the tournament-favourites Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (October 10). MS Dhoni-led CSK beat DC for the first time in this season, on their third attempt, to enter the final as the action now moves to the Eliminator, where Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will face the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Sharjah.

For the unversed, KKR and RCB have contrasting runs in this season. While RCB started off on a bright note in the first leg, in India, they took some time to get going in the second and final leg but managed to seal the playoffs spot with two games to spare. They finally ended third, with 18 points, courtesy their last-ball win over DC in the last league stage encounter.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhoni-gives-autographed-ball-to-a-teary-eyed-young-girl-after-csks-qualifier-1-win-vs-dc-watch-419817">IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch</a>

On the other hand, the two-time winners KKR had a horrible run in the first leg in India, winning just two out of the seven encounters. In the UAE leg, KKR have turned things around emphatically courtesy their spinners and attacking style of play by their Indian youngsters, at the top, as they ended at the fourth spot with an easy win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their last fixture.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-sakshi-gets-emotional-as-ms-dhoni-finishes-off-in-style-to-take-csk-to-ipl-2021-final-with-dc-win-419836">WATCH: Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win</a>

Match prediction: Both KKR and RCB have won a game each versus each other in the two face-offs this season. While RCB drew first blood, KKR came back in style with a resounding win in the last face-off. The track at Sharjah will once again test both the sides, which offers a lot of bounce and keeps the batters on their toes. However, while KKR will resort to their six-hitting abilities at the venue, RCB will go ahead with their steady approach before setting the stage for Glenn Maxwell &amp; Co. A 155-160-plus score is gettable at Sharjah and can be a tough total to chase, being a knockout encounter. However, chasing has been preferred at this venue in 2021 with majority of results favouring the team batting second.

In head-to-head, not much separate both sides as KKR lead RCB 15-13. In the number of games played at Sharjah by both sides this season, RCB have a 1-1 record whereas Kolkata have won both their games at this venue. Favourites KKR?&nbsp;

IPL 2021 playoffs round started with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) facing the tournament-favourites Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (October 10).

IPL 2021 playoffs round started with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) facing the tournament-favourites Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (October 10). MS Dhoni-led CSK beat DC for the first time in this season, on their third attempt, to enter the final as the action now moves to the Eliminator, where Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will face the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Sharjah. For the unversed, KKR and RCB have contrasting runs in this season. While RCB started off on a bright note in the first leg, in India, they took some time to get going in the second and final leg but managed to seal the playoffs spot with two games to spare. They finally ended third, with 18 points, courtesy their last-ball win over DC in the last league stage encounter. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch On the other hand, the two-time winners KKR had a horrible run in the first leg in India, winning just two out of the seven encounters. In the UAE leg, KKR have turned things around emphatically courtesy their spinners and attacking style of play by their Indian youngsters, at the top, as they ended at the fourth spot with an easy win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their last fixture. ALSO READ | WATCH: Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win Match prediction: Both KKR and RCB have won a game each versus each other in the two face-offs this season. While RCB drew first blood, KKR came back in style with a resounding win in the last face-off. The track at Sharjah will once again test both the sides, which offers a lot of bounce and keeps the batters on their toes. However, while KKR will resort to their six-hitting abilities at the venue, RCB will go ahead with their steady approach before setting the stage for Glenn Maxwell & Co. A 155-160-plus score is gettable at Sharjah and can be a tough total to chase, being a knockout encounter. However, chasing has been preferred at this venue in 2021 with majority of results favouring the team batting second. In head-to-head, not much separate both sides as KKR lead RCB 15-13. In the number of games played at Sharjah by both sides this season, RCB have a 1-1 record whereas Kolkata have won both their games at this venue. Favourites KKR?

IPL 2021 Eliminator, match prediction: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders tie?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years provided several budding cricketers across India a platform to rub shoulders with the best in the world and showcase their talent and skills at the highest level. It remains a dream for many to bag an elusive IPL contract and ply their trade in one of the best T20 leagues in the world. However, not many get to live the dream of playing in the IPL or becoming a part of a top franchise in the league.

With thousands of young cricketers trying to make a name for themselves in India's vast and sophisticated domestic circuit, it often becomes difficult to spot talent at the grassroots level and nurture them properly. There have been numerous success stories in the IPL where players spotted at the local level by scouts have gone on to become heroes for their respective franchises and even represented team India at the highest level.

The likes of Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and several others were not a big name in the Indian domestic circuit but were spotted by the scouts at the right time and were offered the platform to shine. To unearth more such stars and help them bridge the gap between the domestic circuit and the IPL, Red Bull has launched the Red Bull Speedster program which aims to find India's best fast bowling talents.

The Speedster program gives youngsters across the country a chance to showcase their talent and skills in qualifying rounds. Those who make it to the final go up against each other and the winner finally gets a chance to train with the Rajasthan Royals. The bowlers are judged based on raw pace, skills and accuracy. Three bowlers have so far been selected as net bowlers for the Royals after coming through the Red Bull Speedster program.

The three bowlers - Mohammad Shareem, Prateek Kumar and Preet Kanwar have been training with Rajasthan Royals as net bowlers and have been bowling against some of the best batsmen in the world including the likes of skipper Sanju Samson, Liam Livingstone and Evin Lewis among others.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhoni-gives-autographed-ball-to-a-teary-eyed-young-girl-after-csks-qualifier-1-win-vs-dc-watch-419817">MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch</a>

Sharim and Pratik were selected at the 2020 Speedster and trained at RR's camp for three months before being selected as net bowlers for IPL 2021. Preet was selected earlier this year and made it as a net bowler for the UAE leg of the IPL 2021.

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Pratik, who hails from the legendary MS Dhoni's hometown Ranchi, said it was a dream come true moment for him when he was selected as a net bowler for the Royals. Having bowled at some of the top batsmen in the RR nets, Pratik hopes to play in the IPL as a full-time player one day.

"It's such an honour that everyone desires for. I thank Red Bull Speedster contest for making my dream come true. A lifetime opportunity to experience the team atmosphere of such a big franchise like Rajasthan Royals," Pratik told WION.

"Of course, it's a big yes. Every player in India wants to have an opportunity to play IPL, as it's a huge opportunity for a youngster to leave his impact on cricketing world. A franchise such as RR always cherish the young talent in India. Hope to get an opportunity in domestic session, so that I can make it to the team one day," he added, when asked if he would like to represent RR in the IPL in future.

Sharim, who hails from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, found out about the Speedster challenge through a friend and it has since proved to be a game-changer for him. The talented youngster&nbsp;has already bowled at the likes of Ben Stokes, Samson and Chris Morris among others and is focused on learning as much as he can from his time with the franchise.

"A friend told me about this. Red Bull Speedster has been a game-changer for me. &nbsp;Very helpful. Experience to train and practice with top international players too," Sharim told WION.

"I have bowled to every player of RR. Star players like Liam Livingston, Evin Lewis, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Chris Morris, Glenn Philip etc," he added on his experience as a net bowler with RR.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-reaction-is-epic-as-greatest-finisher-ms-dhonis-chennai-super-kings-enter-ipl-2021-final-419751">Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final</a>

As the young pace bowlers from small cities of India work hard towards their dream of playing in the IPL, former India cricketer Munaf Patel deserves the credit for spotting them at the right time and taking them under his wings. Munaf is the chief selector during the city-level qualifiers of the Speedster and is also working closely with the RR team management to look after the growth of the selected pacers.

The 2011 World Cup-winner with MS Dhoni-led India, believes the Speedster program can prove to be a game-changer for Indian cricket as far as fast bowling is concerned as it can help in identifying talent which often goes unnoticed.

"The platform provided by programs such as these can be a huge game-changer for the future of our country's cricket where fast bowling is concerned. This is a very good opportunity for the young ones who would otherwise go undiscovered," said Munaf, who played&nbsp;13 Tests and 70 ODIs for India.

Munaf is hopeful of developing some future stars for the Indian cricket team and the Rajasthan Royals with the help of the Speedster program which not only identifies talent but also ensured they are nurtured properly.

"One might have talent but most of it does not see the light of the day just because of lack of opportunities.&nbsp;This initiative does not just stop at scouting talent but goes on to groom them and ensure they find just place in the world of cricket which is extremely important," said Munaf.

"I am positive that we will soon see a battery of bowlers in blue jersey who have come through Red Bull Speedster program," he added.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years provided several budding cricketers across India a platform to rub shoulders with the best in the world and showcase their talent and skills at the highest level.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years provided several budding cricketers across India a platform to rub shoulders with the best in the world and showcase their talent and skills at the highest level. It remains a dream for many to bag an elusive IPL contract and ply their trade in one of the best T20 leagues in the world. However, not many get to live the dream of playing in the IPL or becoming a part of a top franchise in the league. With thousands of young cricketers trying to make a name for themselves in India's vast and sophisticated domestic circuit, it often becomes difficult to spot talent at the grassroots level and nurture them properly. There have been numerous success stories in the IPL where players spotted at the local level by scouts have gone on to become heroes for their respective franchises and even represented team India at the highest level. The likes of Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and several others were not a big name in the Indian domestic circuit but were spotted by the scouts at the right time and were offered the platform to shine. To unearth more such stars and help them bridge the gap between the domestic circuit and the IPL, Red Bull has launched the Red Bull Speedster program which aims to find India's best fast bowling talents. The Speedster program gives youngsters across the country a chance to showcase their talent and skills in qualifying rounds. Those who make it to the final go up against each other and the winner finally gets a chance to train with the Rajasthan Royals. The bowlers are judged based on raw pace, skills and accuracy. Three bowlers have so far been selected as net bowlers for the Royals after coming through the Red Bull Speedster program. The three bowlers - Mohammad Shareem, Prateek Kumar and Preet Kanwar have been training with Rajasthan Royals as net bowlers and have been bowling against some of the best batsmen in the world including the likes of skipper Sanju Samson, Liam Livingstone and Evin Lewis among others. Also Read: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch Sharim and Pratik were selected at the 2020 Speedster and trained at RR's camp for three months before being selected as net bowlers for IPL 2021. Preet was selected earlier this year and made it as a net bowler for the UAE leg of the IPL 2021. × Pratik, who hails from the legendary MS Dhoni's hometown Ranchi, said it was a dream come true moment for him when he was selected as a net bowler for the Royals. Having bowled at some of the top batsmen in the RR nets, Pratik hopes to play in the IPL as a full-time player one day. "It's such an honour that everyone desires for. I thank Red Bull Speedster contest for making my dream come true. A lifetime opportunity to experience the team atmosphere of such a big franchise like Rajasthan Royals," Pratik told WION. "Of course, it's a big yes. Every player in India wants to have an opportunity to play IPL, as it's a huge opportunity for a youngster to leave his impact on cricketing world. A franchise such as RR always cherish the young talent in India. Hope to get an opportunity in domestic session, so that I can make it to the team one day," he added, when asked if he would like to represent RR in the IPL in future. Sharim, who hails from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, found out about the Speedster challenge through a friend and it has since proved to be a game-changer for him. The talented youngster has already bowled at the likes of Ben Stokes, Samson and Chris Morris among others and is focused on learning as much as he can from his time with the franchise. "A friend told me about this. Red Bull Speedster has been a game-changer for me. Very helpful. Experience to train and practice with top international players too," Sharim told WION. "I have bowled to every player of RR. Star players like Liam Livingston, Evin Lewis, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Chris Morris, Glenn Philip etc," he added on his experience as a net bowler with RR. Also Read: Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final As the young pace bowlers from small cities of India work hard towards their dream of playing in the IPL, former India cricketer Munaf Patel deserves the credit for spotting them at the right time and taking them under his wings. Munaf is the chief selector during the city-level qualifiers of the Speedster and is also working closely with the RR team management to look after the growth of the selected pacers. The 2011 World Cup-winner with MS Dhoni-led India, believes the Speedster program can prove to be a game-changer for Indian cricket as far as fast bowling is concerned as it can help in identifying talent which often goes unnoticed. "The platform provided by programs such as these can be a huge game-changer for the future of our country's cricket where fast bowling is concerned. This is a very good opportunity for the young ones who would otherwise go undiscovered," said Munaf, who played 13 Tests and 70 ODIs for India. Munaf is hopeful of developing some future stars for the Indian cricket team and the Rajasthan Royals with the help of the Speedster program which not only identifies talent but also ensured they are nurtured properly. "One might have talent but most of it does not see the light of the day just because of lack of opportunities. This initiative does not just stop at scouting talent but goes on to groom them and ensure they find just place in the world of cricket which is extremely important," said Munaf. "I am positive that we will soon see a battery of bowlers in blue jersey who have come through Red Bull Speedster program," he added.

Living the Royal dream! Youngsters ace speedster challenge to train with Rajasthan Royals as net bowlers

MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

After opting to bowl first, CSK restricted DC to a competitive 172-5 as the last year's runners-up rode on half-centuries from Prithvi Shaw (60), Rishabh Pant's 51* and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, CSK were in the hunt courtesy fifties from Robin Uthappa (42-ball 63) and in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70. However, they were reduced to 119-4, from 113-1, as the match got very close and intense in the end overs.&nbsp;

An out-of-form Dhoni walked out to bat at No. 7, ahead of finisher Ravindra Jadeja, and rolled back the clock with his power-hitting to take CSK to their ninth final courtesy his 6-ball 18*. As soon as Dhoni hit the winning runs in the final over, off Tom Curran, the crowd went berserk seeing MSD return back to form. On the other hand, Dhoni's wife Sakshi was emotional and hugged her daughter Ziva, although&nbsp;not visible in the video, seeing her husband's memorable finish.&nbsp;

Here's the video:

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— pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) <a href="https://twitter.com/pant_fc/status/1447267890931982338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhoni-gives-autographed-ball-to-a-teary-eyed-young-girl-after-csks-qualifier-1-win-vs-dc-watch-419817">IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch</a>

After the match and his brilliant performance, Dhoni told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball."

CSK will now gear up for the IPL 2021 final on Friday (October 15) at the same venue.

MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After opting to bowl first, CSK restricted DC to a competitive 172-5 as the last year's runners-up rode on half-centuries from Prithvi Shaw (60), Rishabh Pant's 51* and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, CSK were in the hunt courtesy fifties from Robin Uthappa (42-ball 63) and in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70. However, they were reduced to 119-4, from 113-1, as the match got very close and intense in the end overs. An out-of-form Dhoni walked out to bat at No. 7, ahead of finisher Ravindra Jadeja, and rolled back the clock with his power-hitting to take CSK to their ninth final courtesy his 6-ball 18*. As soon as Dhoni hit the winning runs in the final over, off Tom Curran, the crowd went berserk seeing MSD return back to form. On the other hand, Dhoni's wife Sakshi was emotional and hugged her daughter Ziva, although not visible in the video, seeing her husband's memorable finish. Here's the video: pic.twitter.com/59dhDykYOa — pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) October 10, 2021 × ALSO READ | IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch After the match and his brilliant performance, Dhoni told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball." CSK will now gear up for the IPL 2021 final on Friday (October 15) at the same venue.

WATCH: Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win

Before the IPL Qualifier 1 match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, West Indian great Brian Lara lauded the Rishab Pant-led side's bowling attack, saying it can "destroy" the yellow army, however, he also warned that the "more experienced" Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side bats deep and can be a better team on any given day.

"The four teams that have played the best cricket... Those four teams deserve to be in the playoffs. I am looking forward to this 1 vs 2 clash (Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings). It`s going to be exciting. This is an important game but teams might think they will have another game if they miss out this time around but teams at 3 and 4 (Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders) are also very strong. Neither Chennai nor Delhi would be thinking about a defeat in this match (on Sunday),"&nbsp;Cricket.com quoted Lara as saying.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tom-moodys-desire-to-become-indias-next-head-coach-reason-behind-david-warners-fall-from-grace-at-srh-419434">Tom Moody's desire to become India's next head coach reason behind David Warner's fall from grace at SRH?</a>

CSK, being the more experienced team, may have a little edge in the match, according to the former West Indies captain. CSK has beaten Delhi Capital twice in the league this season, but the Delhi team&nbsp;has a poor playoff record against the Dhoni-led side, losing two out of two games.

Delhi Capitals handle on Twitter posted a series of tweets&nbsp;recalling the two games between the teams:

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Just taking you through some moments from our league stage encounters before the 2️⃣ big cats clash in Qualifier 1️⃣ 🤜🏼🤛🏼 
 
🐯🆚🦁 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/pecTu3BL2A">pic.twitter.com/pecTu3BL2A</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1447146592281108483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1447146799202856963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1447146984708591616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"This is going to be a tough clash and it's very difficult to predict what's going to happen. Chennai have stumbled in their last three games, while Delhi too lost their last match. Delhi's bowling attack is going to ask Chennai a lot of questions and they can destroy them. Delhi have the best bowling attack in the IPL but CSK bat long. I can't decide who is going to win this one. Just in terms of talent, Delhi have some amazing young players but Chennai have the experience."

"Experience is Chennai's major asset. The two openers (Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis) are doing the business but they also have the experience of playing these important playoff games and that could come in handy. MS Dhoni and his brains and his thinking are going to come good," Lara stated.

Faf Du Plessis of South Africa has been in superb form, hitting 546 runs at an average of 45.5, while Gaikwad (533 runs at 44.42) has also had a dream season, though&nbsp;neither has dominated the Delhi bowlers. On October 4, Gaikwad struggled against the Delhi franchise's seamers, scoring only 13 runs, while du Plessis scored 10.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-analyst-captains-kkr-gautam-gambhir-fires-shots-at-eoin-morgan-ahead-of-ipl-2021-playoffs-419593">Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

Lara anticipates the two seasoned starters to take it easy at first against the likes of Avesh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, and Anrich Nortje, before attacking them.

"That would be a wise call because Delhi haven't been great at the death like they were in 2020. Rabada was outstanding last year and Delhi were able to shut teams down in the last few overs. But, that hasn't been the case this year! You could easily be prepared for that and make sure you don't lose the game in the powerplay." 
 
"I feel that Avesh, Nortje and Rabada are doing most of the damage in the powerplay and Chennai could be slightly careful during that phase. They will target the two openers with short deliveries but if Faf and Gaikwad can see off the first few overs, the two could do some serious damage," added Lara.

Before the IPL Qualifier 1 match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, West Indian great Brian Lara lauded the Rishab Pant-led side's bowling attack, saying it can "destroy" the yellow army, however, he also warned that the "more experienced" Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side bats deep and can be a better team on any given day.

Before the IPL Qualifier 1 match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, West Indian great Brian Lara lauded the Rishab Pant-led side's bowling attack, saying it can "destroy" the yellow army, however, he also warned that the "more experienced" Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side bats deep and can be a better team on any given day. "The four teams that have played the best cricket... Those four teams deserve to be in the playoffs. I am looking forward to this 1 vs 2 clash (Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings). It`s going to be exciting. This is an important game but teams might think they will have another game if they miss out this time around but teams at 3 and 4 (Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders) are also very strong. Neither Chennai nor Delhi would be thinking about a defeat in this match (on Sunday)," Cricket.com quoted Lara as saying. Also Read: Tom Moody's desire to become India's next head coach reason behind David Warner's fall from grace at SRH? CSK, being the more experienced team, may have a little edge in the match, according to the former West Indies captain. CSK has beaten Delhi Capital twice in the league this season, but the Delhi team has a poor playoff record against the Dhoni-led side, losing two out of two games. Delhi Capitals handle on Twitter posted a series of tweets recalling the two games between the teams: Just taking you through some moments from our league stage encounters before the 2️⃣ big cats clash in Qualifier 1️⃣ 🤜🏼🤛🏼 🐯🆚🦁 🔥#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 #DCvCSK pic.twitter.com/pecTu3BL2A — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 10, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/fb0KX8CeBx — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 10, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/9KvzT3PkLn — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 10, 2021 × "This is going to be a tough clash and it's very difficult to predict what's going to happen. Chennai have stumbled in their last three games, while Delhi too lost their last match. Delhi's bowling attack is going to ask Chennai a lot of questions and they can destroy them. Delhi have the best bowling attack in the IPL but CSK bat long. I can't decide who is going to win this one. Just in terms of talent, Delhi have some amazing young players but Chennai have the experience." "Experience is Chennai's major asset. The two openers (Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis) are doing the business but they also have the experience of playing these important playoff games and that could come in handy. MS Dhoni and his brains and his thinking are going to come good," Lara stated. Faf Du Plessis of South Africa has been in superb form, hitting 546 runs at an average of 45.5, while Gaikwad (533 runs at 44.42) has also had a dream season, though neither has dominated the Delhi bowlers. On October 4, Gaikwad struggled against the Delhi franchise's seamers, scoring only 13 runs, while du Plessis scored 10. Also Read: Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs Lara anticipates the two seasoned starters to take it easy at first against the likes of Avesh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, and Anrich Nortje, before attacking them. "That would be a wise call because Delhi haven't been great at the death like they were in 2020. Rabada was outstanding last year and Delhi were able to shut teams down in the last few overs. But, that hasn't been the case this year! You could easily be prepared for that and make sure you don't lose the game in the powerplay." "I feel that Avesh, Nortje and Rabada are doing most of the damage in the powerplay and Chennai could be slightly careful during that phase. They will target the two openers with short deliveries but if Faf and Gaikwad can see off the first few overs, the two could do some serious damage," added Lara.

IPL 2021: CSK need to guard against devastating Delhi Capitals bowlers, says Brian Lara

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has witnessed some of the young guns outshine the old warhorses this year. One of the best T20 leagues across the globe, the IPL has over the years provided a much-needed platform for the Indian youngsters to shine and prove their worth.&nbsp;

India's domestic cricket structure is a formidable force in itself with thousands of players plying their trade across states, districts and other local sides in order to realise their dreams of playing for India one day. However, the demanding domestic structure had often been criticised for not identifying and nurturing proper talent at the grassroots level.

Thanks to the IPL, the gap between the national team and domestic cricket has been bridged smoothly as youngsters get a chance to rub&nbsp;shoulders with the best in the world in the cash-rich league. There have been a plethora of success stories in IPL that have gone on to represent India at the highest stage later in their careers.

With a number of young talents emerging every season, the ongoing edition of IPL has been no different. A number of youngsters have grabbed the opportunities coming their way with both hands and have shone for their respective teams. Here we take a look at five such Indian young guns who have taken IPL 2021 by a storm with their brilliant performances.

1) Ruturaj Gaikwad

<img alt="Ruturaj Gaikwad | Photo - PTI |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f43bdbcd-3529-4fe9-9c71-dce1529997aa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ruturaj%20PTI.png" />

The young right-hand batsman has been a revelation for MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. Gaikwad had proved his mettle last season by scoring runs consistently in the handful of opportunities coming his way in the UAE. However, he set the ball rolling from the word go in IPL 2021 and has been the second-highest run-getter for his side in the ongoing season.

Known for his terrific technique and ability to churn out runs consistently, Gaikwad seems to be a brilliant prospect for both CSK and team India in the future. The stylish batsman has so far amassed 533 runs in 14 matches this season at an excellent average of 44.41 and a strike rate of 137.01.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-hardik-pandya-virender-sehwag-names-3-players-mumbai-indians-should-retain-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-419581">No Hardik Pandya! Virender Sehwag names 3 players Mumbai Indians should retain ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

2) Venkatesh Iyer

<img alt="Venkatesh Iyer | Photo - IANS |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="68cace55-e35a-4256-9859-c7fbe9c60d17" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Venkatesh%20Iyer%20IANS.png" />

Kolkata Knight Riders were among the least favourites to qualify for the playoffs this season after a disastrous start to their campaign in India. KKR managed just two wins in their first seven games of the season in the first leg and headed to UAE with their task cut out. They needed to win at least five of their remaining seven matches and they did exactly that to make it to the playoffs.

Venkatesh Iyer is one of the youngsters who has played an instrumental role in helping KKR secure a spot in the playoffs in IPL 2021. Making his debut for KKR against RCB, Iyer announced himself on the big stage with a cracking 41 off just 27 balls and has not looked back since. Known for his big-hitting prowess, Iyer has notched up 239 runs in just 7 games at a strike rate close to 130 and has also proven to be a handy bowler. The batting all-rounder has made heads turn with his performances and looks one for the future.

3) Avesh Khan&nbsp;

<img alt="Avesh Khan | Photo - IPL |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8dc6f2a6-a241-4111-9aef-879d0133f266" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Avesh%20Khan%20IPL.png" />

24-year-old Avesh Khan has outshone the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje to emerge as Delhi Capitals' highest wicket-taker in the ongoing IPL 2021. One of the most promising fast-bowling prospects that India have at present, Avesh has impressed with his pace, accuracy and consistency for DC.

The right-arm fast bowler has enjoyed a stellar season so far with the ball and has already picked up 22 wickets in just 14 matches at an economy of 7.45. He has been captain Rishabh Pant's go-to-man at DC this season despite the likes of Rabada and Nortje in the team's ranks. Avesh was one of the net bowlers for India on their tour of England earlier this year and looks destined for bigger things in the future.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-analyst-captains-kkr-gautam-gambhir-fires-shots-at-eoin-morgan-ahead-of-ipl-2021-playoffs-419593">Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

4) Arshdeep Singh

<img alt="Arshdeep Singh | Photo - IPL |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6fd75ec-4ffd-4b21-9eeb-880f0eca5d75" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Arshdeep.png" />

Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh enjoyed a memorable campaign in IPL 2021 and could be soon knocking at the selectors' doors for entry in Team India's squad in limited-overs. Arshdeep was one of the best&nbsp;bowlers for Punjab in the IPL last year and continued his brilliant run in the 2021 edition of the tournament as well.

Arshdeep picked up 18 wickets in just 12 matches in the league stages of IPL 2021 while bowling at an economy of just over 8. He formed a formidable partnership with senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami for PBKS and delivered the goods for captain KL Rahul in several pressure situations. The 22-year-old is certainly one to watch out for in the future.

5) Ravi Bishnoi

<img alt="Ravi Bishnoi | Photo - IPL |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3f579a96-56e5-4acb-96b6-a105031f82a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ravi%20Bishnoi%20IPL.png" />

With the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav falling out of favour in&nbsp;the Indian team, the selectors are actively on the lookout for&nbsp;young spinners. Ravi Bishnoi, the former India U-19 star has caught the eye of many with his impressive performances for Punjab Kings in the IPL. A fearless customer, Bishnoi is known for his ability to trouble the best of batsmen.

Bishnoi can be fast-tracked into the Indian side owing to his impeccable skills and temperament. The young leg-spinner did not get a lot of chances in the India leg of IPL 2021 but redeemed himself in the UAE leg of the season to finish with 12 wickets from 9 matches.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has witnessed some of the young guns outshine the old warhorses this year. One of the best T20 leagues across the globe, the IPL has over the years provided a much-needed platform for the Indian youngsters to shine and prove their worth.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has witnessed some of the young guns outshine the old warhorses this year. One of the best T20 leagues across the globe, the IPL has over the years provided a much-needed platform for the Indian youngsters to shine and prove their worth. India's domestic cricket structure is a formidable force in itself with thousands of players plying their trade across states, districts and other local sides in order to realise their dreams of playing for India one day. However, the demanding domestic structure had often been criticised for not identifying and nurturing proper talent at the grassroots level. Thanks to the IPL, the gap between the national team and domestic cricket has been bridged smoothly as youngsters get a chance to rub shoulders with the best in the world in the cash-rich league. There have been a plethora of success stories in IPL that have gone on to represent India at the highest stage later in their careers. With a number of young talents emerging every season, the ongoing edition of IPL has been no different. A number of youngsters have grabbed the opportunities coming their way with both hands and have shone for their respective teams. Here we take a look at five such Indian young guns who have taken IPL 2021 by a storm with their brilliant performances. 1) Ruturaj Gaikwad The young right-hand batsman has been a revelation for MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. Gaikwad had proved his mettle last season by scoring runs consistently in the handful of opportunities coming his way in the UAE. However, he set the ball rolling from the word go in IPL 2021 and has been the second-highest run-getter for his side in the ongoing season. Known for his terrific technique and ability to churn out runs consistently, Gaikwad seems to be a brilliant prospect for both CSK and team India in the future. The stylish batsman has so far amassed 533 runs in 14 matches this season at an excellent average of 44.41 and a strike rate of 137.01. Also Read: No Hardik Pandya! Virender Sehwag names 3 players Mumbai Indians should retain ahead of IPL mega auction 2) Venkatesh Iyer Kolkata Knight Riders were among the least favourites to qualify for the playoffs this season after a disastrous start to their campaign in India. KKR managed just two wins in their first seven games of the season in the first leg and headed to UAE with their task cut out. They needed to win at least five of their remaining seven matches and they did exactly that to make it to the playoffs. Venkatesh Iyer is one of the youngsters who has played an instrumental role in helping KKR secure a spot in the playoffs in IPL 2021. Making his debut for KKR against RCB, Iyer announced himself on the big stage with a cracking 41 off just 27 balls and has not looked back since. Known for his big-hitting prowess, Iyer has notched up 239 runs in just 7 games at a strike rate close to 130 and has also proven to be a handy bowler. The batting all-rounder has made heads turn with his performances and looks one for the future. 3) Avesh Khan 24-year-old Avesh Khan has outshone the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje to emerge as Delhi Capitals' highest wicket-taker in the ongoing IPL 2021. One of the most promising fast-bowling prospects that India have at present, Avesh has impressed with his pace, accuracy and consistency for DC. The right-arm fast bowler has enjoyed a stellar season so far with the ball and has already picked up 22 wickets in just 14 matches at an economy of 7.45. He has been captain Rishabh Pant's go-to-man at DC this season despite the likes of Rabada and Nortje in the team's ranks. Avesh was one of the net bowlers for India on their tour of England earlier this year and looks destined for bigger things in the future. Also Read: Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs 4) Arshdeep Singh Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh enjoyed a memorable campaign in IPL 2021 and could be soon knocking at the selectors' doors for entry in Team India's squad in limited-overs. Arshdeep was one of the best bowlers for Punjab in the IPL last year and continued his brilliant run in the 2021 edition of the tournament as well. Arshdeep picked up 18 wickets in just 12 matches in the league stages of IPL 2021 while bowling at an economy of just over 8. He formed a formidable partnership with senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami for PBKS and delivered the goods for captain KL Rahul in several pressure situations. The 22-year-old is certainly one to watch out for in the future. 5) Ravi Bishnoi With the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav falling out of favour in the Indian team, the selectors are actively on the lookout for young spinners. Ravi Bishnoi, the former India U-19 star has caught the eye of many with his impressive performances for Punjab Kings in the IPL. A fearless customer, Bishnoi is known for his ability to trouble the best of batsmen. Bishnoi can be fast-tracked into the Indian side owing to his impeccable skills and temperament. The young leg-spinner did not get a lot of chances in the India leg of IPL 2021 but redeemed himself in the UAE leg of the season to finish with 12 wickets from 9 matches.

Future superstars! Five Indian youngsters who took IPL 2021 by a storm with their performances

The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as we head to the playoffs, from Sunday (October 10). For the unversed, the Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended as the top-four sides in the league stage as the competition will now get more intense.

The stage is set for a blockbuster finish as two out of the four teams will look to clinch their maiden title whereas the experienced CSK and KKR unit will try to add another trophy to their respective cabinets.

Talking about the Delhi unit, they have reaped rewards post their revamp after the 2018 season. From 2008-2018, Delhi had reached the playoffs only on three occasions.&nbsp;Since 2019, DC have made it to the last four every single time; also playing their first-ever final last year. As they look to go a step ahead and win their first-ever IPL trophy, WION News'&nbsp;Aditya Sahay had a chat with DC's assistant coach and former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ajay Ratra on Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Ricky Ponting-led Delhi camp's astute coaching staff and the one-time runners-up having the wood over CSK in 2021.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-qualifier-1-dc-vs-csk-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-419606">IPL 2021, Qualifier 1: DC vs CSK - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads</a>

Q1) DC will enter the Qualifier 1 by having a 2-0 lead over MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK); also beating them at the same venue just a few days. Though one needs to start afresh and everyday throws a new challenge, do you think DC having the wood over the experienced CSK line-up will help in the first Qualifier?

Yes, we have beaten CSK twice this season. It&nbsp;is definitely a good feeling beating a very good team like Chennai. You get a lot of confidence and the other team does feel the heat.&nbsp;Having said that, whatever our plans and strategies we have in-line, we need to execute them once again on the particular day&nbsp;to emerge on top.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Q2) Playing brilliant cricket in IPL 2020, DC were outfoxed by the experienced MI in the final. As the franchise is aiming to enter their second successive final, and emerge on top, how has the entire coaching and support staff worked with the players to help them grow from the missed opportunities in IPL 2020?

We have five coaches altogether, headed by Ricky Ponting. We have a very good understanding and communication. There are specific coaches for specific roles. It might look on field that lot of things happen on the 22-yard cricket strip by players, but there are a&nbsp;lot of planning&nbsp;and strategies&nbsp;happen&nbsp;behind-the-door&nbsp;or from the backend.

There have been occasions in this season where we have fielded only three overseas players but still won. We are performing as a team. It has been a complete team performance as we aren't relying on certain individuals. Performances are coming from all corners. Ponting is very communicative with the players and in that&nbsp;way, we have an edge (over others). Players are prepared to be mentally tough under someone like&nbsp;Punter.&nbsp;

Q3) The discussion might have been a lengthy one regarding who should captain DC in the final leg. How has Pant been as captain according to you? Mention one quality of him as a young leader, who is looking to change DC's fortunes this time around.

This is the first time that Pant is leading in the IPL. He has led in the Delhi team in the past but leading an IPL team is a different ball-game. In Rishabh's case, he is quite clear on what he wants to do. It might not seem logical from the outside, but he goes with his instincts and backs himself. Every decision has pros and cons. But in his case, he is very clear. Ofcourse, he's in the growing stage but will get&nbsp;better with each match. The more he plays as captain, the better he will get.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-playoffs-schedule-rishabh-pant-led-dc-face-ms-dhonis-csk-in-qualifier-1-rcb-kkr-to-play-eliminator-419342">IPL 2021 playoffs schedule: Rishabh Pant-led DC face MS Dhoni's CSK in Qualifier 1, RCB-KKR to play Eliminator</a>

DC have unfulfilled business in IPL 14. They won't be content by finishing atop in the points table. After the missed opportunities in 2020, they are eager to win their maiden IPL championship. Their current batch made some mistakes last season, however, they are hell bent to return victorious and prove the saying that while 'all men make mistakes but only wise men learn from them'.

DC lock horns with CSK in Qualifier 1 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, on October 10 (Sunday). Meanwhile, KKR-RCB will play the Eliminator on Monday (October 11).

The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as we head to the playoffs, from Sunday (October 10). For the unversed, the Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended as the top-four sides in the league stage as the competition will now get more intense.

The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as we head to the playoffs, from Sunday (October 10). For the unversed, the Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended as the top-four sides in the league stage as the competition will now get more intense. The stage is set for a blockbuster finish as two out of the four teams will look to clinch their maiden title whereas the experienced CSK and KKR unit will try to add another trophy to their respective cabinets. Talking about the Delhi unit, they have reaped rewards post their revamp after the 2018 season. From 2008-2018, Delhi had reached the playoffs only on three occasions. Since 2019, DC have made it to the last four every single time; also playing their first-ever final last year. As they look to go a step ahead and win their first-ever IPL trophy, WION News' Aditya Sahay had a chat with DC's assistant coach and former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ajay Ratra on Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Ricky Ponting-led Delhi camp's astute coaching staff and the one-time runners-up having the wood over CSK in 2021. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, Qualifier 1: DC vs CSK - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads Q1) DC will enter the Qualifier 1 by having a 2-0 lead over MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK); also beating them at the same venue just a few days. Though one needs to start afresh and everyday throws a new challenge, do you think DC having the wood over the experienced CSK line-up will help in the first Qualifier? Yes, we have beaten CSK twice this season. It is definitely a good feeling beating a very good team like Chennai. You get a lot of confidence and the other team does feel the heat. Having said that, whatever our plans and strategies we have in-line, we need to execute them once again on the particular day to emerge on top. Q2) Playing brilliant cricket in IPL 2020, DC were outfoxed by the experienced MI in the final. As the franchise is aiming to enter their second successive final, and emerge on top, how has the entire coaching and support staff worked with the players to help them grow from the missed opportunities in IPL 2020? We have five coaches altogether, headed by Ricky Ponting. We have a very good understanding and communication. There are specific coaches for specific roles. It might look on field that lot of things happen on the 22-yard cricket strip by players, but there are a lot of planning and strategies happen behind-the-door or from the backend. There have been occasions in this season where we have fielded only three overseas players but still won. We are performing as a team. It has been a complete team performance as we aren't relying on certain individuals. Performances are coming from all corners. Ponting is very communicative with the players and in that way, we have an edge (over others). Players are prepared to be mentally tough under someone like Punter. Q3) The discussion might have been a lengthy one regarding who should captain DC in the final leg. How has Pant been as captain according to you? Mention one quality of him as a young leader, who is looking to change DC's fortunes this time around. This is the first time that Pant is leading in the IPL. He has led in the Delhi team in the past but leading an IPL team is a different ball-game. In Rishabh's case, he is quite clear on what he wants to do. It might not seem logical from the outside, but he goes with his instincts and backs himself. Every decision has pros and cons. But in his case, he is very clear. Ofcourse, he's in the growing stage but will get better with each match. The more he plays as captain, the better he will get. ALSO READ | IPL 2021 playoffs schedule: Rishabh Pant-led DC face MS Dhoni's CSK in Qualifier 1, RCB-KKR to play Eliminator DC have unfulfilled business in IPL 14. They won't be content by finishing atop in the points table. After the missed opportunities in 2020, they are eager to win their maiden IPL championship. Their current batch made some mistakes last season, however, they are hell bent to return victorious and prove the saying that while 'all men make mistakes but only wise men learn from them'. DC lock horns with CSK in Qualifier 1 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, on October 10 (Sunday). Meanwhile, KKR-RCB will play the Eliminator on Monday (October 11).

EXCLUSIVE | DC's assistant coach opines on Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Delhi's 2-0 edge vs CSK before playoffs

Mumbai Indians (MI) failed to make it to the playoffs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 despite a late surge in the UAE leg of the tournament. MI won their last two league games of the season comprehensively but fell short in terms of the net run rate to finish outside the top four and make an early exit from the competition.

Mumbai Indians will be looking to revamp their squad and make some quality additions in the upcoming mega auction ahead of the 2022 edition of the league. The franchises are likely to get a limited amount of retentions ahead of the mega auction and they will have to be wise in making the final decision on who to retain.

Mumbai Indians have a number of match-winners in their ranks and will be looking to retain some of their best players before the mega auction. They had retained captain Rohit Sharma, all-rounder Hardik Pandya and pacer Jasprit Bumrah the last time around.

However, former India opener Virender Sehwag believes Hardik should not be MI's first-choice retention this time around. Sehwag, who led Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings in the IPL, named three players who MI should retain ahead of the new season and snubbed Pandya from the list.

"I think I would retain Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah. Ishan seems to be in it for the long haul, age is on his side so he can serve you better. If Hardik Pandya doesn't bowl, I don't think he would be able to fetch big money at the auction because due to his injury concerns, everyone would think twice," Sehwag said.&nbsp;

Sehwag's comments came after Kishan took the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowlers to the cleaners in MI's final league game of the season. The young left-hander slammed a brilliant 84 off just 32 balls to power MI to a 42-run win. Sehwag believes MI should retain Kishan over Hardik as he is a top-order batsman and offers more value.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tom-moodys-desire-to-become-indias-next-head-coach-reason-behind-david-warners-fall-from-grace-at-srh-419434">Tom Moody's desire to become India's next head coach reason behind&nbsp;Warner's fall from grace at SRH?</a>

Sehwag also pointed out concerns regarding Pandya's bowling. The all-rounder didn't bowl a single ball in the UAE leg of IPL 2021 and has been struggling with his fitness to return to full-time bowling as an all-rounder.

"Will he bowl or not? If he can declare himself fit and start bowling then teams can buy him at the auction. The kind of performance Ishan Kishan has dished out today, expect many more from him in time to come because is a top-order batsman, unlike Hardik Pandya who bats lower," said Sehwag.

&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians (MI) failed to make it to the playoffs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 despite a late surge in the UAE leg of the tournament. MI won their last two league games of the season comprehensively but fell short in terms of the net run rate to finish outside the top four and make an early exit from the competition.

Mumbai Indians (MI) failed to make it to the playoffs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 despite a late surge in the UAE leg of the tournament. MI won their last two league games of the season comprehensively but fell short in terms of the net run rate to finish outside the top four and make an early exit from the competition. Mumbai Indians will be looking to revamp their squad and make some quality additions in the upcoming mega auction ahead of the 2022 edition of the league. The franchises are likely to get a limited amount of retentions ahead of the mega auction and they will have to be wise in making the final decision on who to retain. Mumbai Indians have a number of match-winners in their ranks and will be looking to retain some of their best players before the mega auction. They had retained captain Rohit Sharma, all-rounder Hardik Pandya and pacer Jasprit Bumrah the last time around. However, former India opener Virender Sehwag believes Hardik should not be MI's first-choice retention this time around. Sehwag, who led Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings in the IPL, named three players who MI should retain ahead of the new season and snubbed Pandya from the list. "I think I would retain Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah. Ishan seems to be in it for the long haul, age is on his side so he can serve you better. If Hardik Pandya doesn't bowl, I don't think he would be able to fetch big money at the auction because due to his injury concerns, everyone would think twice," Sehwag said. Sehwag's comments came after Kishan took the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowlers to the cleaners in MI's final league game of the season. The young left-hander slammed a brilliant 84 off just 32 balls to power MI to a 42-run win. Sehwag believes MI should retain Kishan over Hardik as he is a top-order batsman and offers more value. Also Read: Tom Moody's desire to become India's next head coach reason behind Warner's fall from grace at SRH? Sehwag also pointed out concerns regarding Pandya's bowling. The all-rounder didn't bowl a single ball in the UAE leg of IPL 2021 and has been struggling with his fitness to return to full-time bowling as an all-rounder. "Will he bowl or not? If he can declare himself fit and start bowling then teams can buy him at the auction. The kind of performance Ishan Kishan has dished out today, expect many more from him in time to come because is a top-order batsman, unlike Hardik Pandya who bats lower," said Sehwag.

No Hardik Pandya! Virender Sehwag names 3 players Mumbai Indians should retain ahead of IPL mega auction

After 56 enthralling encounters, the IPL 2021 has now progressed towards the playoffs.&nbsp;While the defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) gave their all in their last group stage clash, still being in playoffs contention mathematically, they have bowed out of the mega event, ending at the fifth spot. On the other hand, the KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS), Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) followed suit to miss the playoffs.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) ended the group stage as the top-ranked side, followed by MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to enter the final round.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-spoken-to-ab-de-villiers-in-2019-virat-kohli-drops-a-bomb-regarding-his-decision-to-quit-rcb-captaincy-419241">'I'd spoken to AB de Villiers in 2019' - Virat Kohli drops a bomb regarding his decision to quit RCB captaincy</a>

Here's the playoffs schedule for IPL 2021:&nbsp;

Qualifier 1, Oct 10: DC vs CSK, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium

Eliminator, Oct 11: RCB vs KKR, at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah

Qualifier 2, Oct 13: Loser of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Eliminator, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah

Final, Oct 15: Winner of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Qualifier 2, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mumbai-indians-post-2359-a-look-at-top-five-highest-totals-in-ipl-history-419259">Mumbai Indians post 235/9: A look at top five highest totals in IPL history</a>

Talking about the opponents to meet in Qualifier 1, DC will have an edge as they lead CSK 2-0 in the current season. While CSK are entering the playoffs with three successive losses, DC also lost their last game on the final ball.&nbsp; Meanwhile, KKR and RCB have thrashed each other once this season; which sets up for a riveting Eliminator at Sharjah.&nbsp;

Who will walk away with the title? Will Dhoni's current batch win their fourth title (being the most experienced side in the playoffs), or will one among DC or RCB end their trophy-drought to claim their maiden championship? Eoin Morgan's KKR cannot be taken lightly as well.&nbsp;All in all, we are set for a blockbuster finish to IPL 14.

After 56 enthralling encounters, the IPL 2021 has now progressed towards the playoffs. While the defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) gave their all in their last group stage clash, still being in playoffs contention mathematically, they have bowed out of the mega event, ending at the fifth spot.

After 56 enthralling encounters, the IPL 2021 has now progressed towards the playoffs. While the defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) gave their all in their last group stage clash, still being in playoffs contention mathematically, they have bowed out of the mega event, ending at the fifth spot. On the other hand, the KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS), Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) followed suit to miss the playoffs. Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) ended the group stage as the top-ranked side, followed by MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to enter the final round. ALSO READ | 'I'd spoken to AB de Villiers in 2019' - Virat Kohli drops a bomb regarding his decision to quit RCB captaincy Here's the playoffs schedule for IPL 2021: Qualifier 1, Oct 10: DC vs CSK, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium Eliminator, Oct 11: RCB vs KKR, at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah Qualifier 2, Oct 13: Loser of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Eliminator, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah Final, Oct 15: Winner of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Qualifier 2, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai ALSO READ | Mumbai Indians post 235/9: A look at top five highest totals in IPL history Talking about the opponents to meet in Qualifier 1, DC will have an edge as they lead CSK 2-0 in the current season. While CSK are entering the playoffs with three successive losses, DC also lost their last game on the final ball. Meanwhile, KKR and RCB have thrashed each other once this season; which sets up for a riveting Eliminator at Sharjah. Who will walk away with the title? Will Dhoni's current batch win their fourth title (being the most experienced side in the playoffs), or will one among DC or RCB end their trophy-drought to claim their maiden championship? Eoin Morgan's KKR cannot be taken lightly as well. All in all, we are set for a blockbuster finish to IPL 14.

IPL 2021 playoffs schedule: Rishabh Pant-led DC face MS Dhoni's CSK in Qualifier 1, RCB-KKR to play Eliminator

Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma shed light on all-rounder Hardik Pandya's fitness saying that "he hasn't bowled a single ball yet", raising doubts on whether he would retain his place in the Indian squad for the ICC T20 World Cup beginning in a week's time. 
 
Pandya batted against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday, scoring 10 runs off eight deliveries before he was sent packing by Jason Holder. The all-rounder did strike an unbeaten 30-ball 40 in Mumbai Indians'&nbsp;six-wicket win over Punjab Kings on September 28 to break the five-time champions` losing streak, but it's his bowling fitness which is causing concern ahead of the mega-event. 
 
After missing the first two matches in the second leg of the tournament in the UAE, Pandya has featured for Mumbai as a pure batsman. The all-rounder hadn't bowled in the first leg of the tournament in India as well. 
 
"Look, in terms of his bowling, he hasn't bowled yet. So the physios, trainer and the medical team are working on his bowling. As of now, all I know is that he hasn't bowled a single ball yet but we wanted to take one game at a time and see where he stands. You saw he didn't bowl today (Friday against SRH) as well, but he is getting better day by day. So, in the next week or so he might be able to bowl," said Sharma in the post-match press conference.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-playoffs-schedule-rishabh-pant-led-dc-face-ms-dhonis-csk-in-qualifier-1-rcb-kkr-to-play-eliminator-419342">IPL 2021 playoffs schedule: Rishabh Pant-led DC face MS Dhoni's CSK in Qualifier 1, RCB-KKR to play Eliminator</a> 
 
"The doctor, physio will be able to give an update on that. As far as his batting is concerned, he will be a little disappointed but we know the quality of him. He is a quality player and there is no doubt about that and he has come back from tough situations before as well. Personally, for him he will not be happy with his batting but again the team has confidence in his ability. I personally have confidence in his ability. So yes, he is progressing. 
 
"When you look at him, he is getting better every time he goes on to the field. He looks better and better. But again, a player like him is probably just one innings away from getting back and getting back to his own natural way. We have seen it in the past. He has done it before as well. If I have to put everything together, I am personally very confident of his ability. We have seen it in the past and there is no doubt that he will be a valuable asset."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-spoken-to-ab-de-villiers-in-2019-virat-kohli-drops-a-bomb-regarding-his-decision-to-quit-rcb-captaincy-419241">'I'd spoken to AB de Villiers in 2019' - Virat Kohli drops a bomb regarding his decision to quit RCB captaincy</a> 
 
India have already named their squad for the T20 World Cup, which begins on October 17. While announcing the squad, chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma had said Pandya was fully fit and he would be able to bowl his quota of overs at the World Cup. 
 
Ever since his back surgery, Hardik has been given the freedom to choose which match he wants to bowl in. The underlying reason is usually that his workload needs to be managed.

Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma shed light on all-rounder Hardik Pandya's fitness saying that "he hasn't bowled a single ball yet", raising doubts on whether he would retain his place in the Indian squad for the ICC T20 World Cup beginning in a week's time.

Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma shed light on all-rounder Hardik Pandya's fitness saying that "he hasn't bowled a single ball yet", raising doubts on whether he would retain his place in the Indian squad for the ICC T20 World Cup beginning in a week's time. Pandya batted against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday, scoring 10 runs off eight deliveries before he was sent packing by Jason Holder. The all-rounder did strike an unbeaten 30-ball 40 in Mumbai Indians' six-wicket win over Punjab Kings on September 28 to break the five-time champions` losing streak, but it's his bowling fitness which is causing concern ahead of the mega-event. After missing the first two matches in the second leg of the tournament in the UAE, Pandya has featured for Mumbai as a pure batsman. The all-rounder hadn't bowled in the first leg of the tournament in India as well. "Look, in terms of his bowling, he hasn't bowled yet. So the physios, trainer and the medical team are working on his bowling. As of now, all I know is that he hasn't bowled a single ball yet but we wanted to take one game at a time and see where he stands. You saw he didn't bowl today (Friday against SRH) as well, but he is getting better day by day. So, in the next week or so he might be able to bowl," said Sharma in the post-match press conference. Also Read: IPL 2021 playoffs schedule: Rishabh Pant-led DC face MS Dhoni's CSK in Qualifier 1, RCB-KKR to play Eliminator "The doctor, physio will be able to give an update on that. As far as his batting is concerned, he will be a little disappointed but we know the quality of him. He is a quality player and there is no doubt about that and he has come back from tough situations before as well. Personally, for him he will not be happy with his batting but again the team has confidence in his ability. I personally have confidence in his ability. So yes, he is progressing. "When you look at him, he is getting better every time he goes on to the field. He looks better and better. But again, a player like him is probably just one innings away from getting back and getting back to his own natural way. We have seen it in the past. He has done it before as well. If I have to put everything together, I am personally very confident of his ability. We have seen it in the past and there is no doubt that he will be a valuable asset." ALSO READ | 'I'd spoken to AB de Villiers in 2019' - Virat Kohli drops a bomb regarding his decision to quit RCB captaincy India have already named their squad for the T20 World Cup, which begins on October 17. While announcing the squad, chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma had said Pandya was fully fit and he would be able to bowl his quota of overs at the World Cup. Ever since his back surgery, Hardik has been given the freedom to choose which match he wants to bowl in. The underlying reason is usually that his workload needs to be managed.

He hasn't bowled a single ball yet: Rohit Sharma opens up on Hardik Pandya's potential return with the ball

Match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the bottom-lying Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Friday afternoon (October 8).

MI are coming into this game with a heavy task; to beat SRH by a huge margin --&nbsp; by 170 runs or more&nbsp;-- in order to leapfrog Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and attain the fourth spot in the playoffs. For the unversed, KKR are overwhelming favourites for the remaining spot and are sitting pretty at the fourth position currently following a massive 86-run win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Thursday evening. KKR also have the net run-rate in their favour, hence, MI will have to beat SRH by a humongous and almost near-impossible margin to qualify further. They cannot advance further if SRH bat first.

SRH, on the other hand, are coming into this game on the back of a spirited 4-run win over the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Sharjah. Having a disastrous campaign in IPL 14, SRH will be desperate to sign off on a high with another win under their belt. Jason Roy, Jason Holder, Williamson, Rashid Khan and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will continue to be their best bets versus MI, with eyes on speedster Umran Malik as well.

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Match prediction for SRH vs MI clash:&nbsp;The batting hasn't been easy in any of the surfaces in the UAE leg. The same is expected in match 55 and a modest score will be challenging for the chasing team. Given that SRH have nothing to lose, they will look to bat first and get to a moderate score and defend it, like they did versus RCB. Meanwhile, MI will be down and out given the mammoth scenario in front of them and will be tested versus a nothing-to-lose Hyderabad line-up. SRH to sign off on a high?

Match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the bottom-lying Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Friday afternoon (October 8).

Match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the bottom-lying Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Friday afternoon (October 8). MI are coming into this game with a heavy task; to beat SRH by a huge margin -- by 170 runs or more -- in order to leapfrog Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and attain the fourth spot in the playoffs. For the unversed, KKR are overwhelming favourites for the remaining spot and are sitting pretty at the fourth position currently following a massive 86-run win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Thursday evening. KKR also have the net run-rate in their favour, hence, MI will have to beat SRH by a humongous and almost near-impossible margin to qualify further. They cannot advance further if SRH bat first. SRH, on the other hand, are coming into this game on the back of a spirited 4-run win over the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Sharjah. Having a disastrous campaign in IPL 14, SRH will be desperate to sign off on a high with another win under their belt. Jason Roy, Jason Holder, Williamson, Rashid Khan and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will continue to be their best bets versus MI, with eyes on speedster Umran Malik as well. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders beat Rajasthan Royals by 86 runs, take giant step towards playoffs Match prediction for SRH vs MI clash: The batting hasn't been easy in any of the surfaces in the UAE leg. The same is expected in match 55 and a modest score will be challenging for the chasing team. Given that SRH have nothing to lose, they will look to bat first and get to a moderate score and defend it, like they did versus RCB. Meanwhile, MI will be down and out given the mammoth scenario in front of them and will be tested versus a nothing-to-lose Hyderabad line-up. SRH to sign off on a high?

MI vs SRH, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match?

Srikar Bharat and Glenn Maxwell played unbeaten knocks of 78 and 51 respectively as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated Delhi Capitals by seven wickets in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 encounter here at the Dubai International Stadium on Friday.

Delhi Capitals finished at the top spot in the points table and now the side will square off against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Qualifier 1 on Sunday. On the other hand, RCB finished at the third spot and Virat Kohli`s team will face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Eliminator on Monday.

Chasing 165, RCB got off to the worst start possible as Devdutt Padikkal (0) was sent back to the pavilion in the very first over by Anrich Nortje. The Proteas pacer did not stop there as in his next over, he got the big fish Virat Kohli (4) and RCB was reduced to 6/2.AB de Villiers and Srikar Bharat then got together at the crease and the duo retrieved the innings for RCB.

Both batters put on 49 runs for the third wicket, but as soon as the innings started coming on track, Kohli`s side lost the wicket of de Villiers (26), still needing 110 runs to win from 63 balls. In the 14th over, Glenn Maxwell was dropped two times -- once by Shreyas Iyer and once by Ravichandran Ashwin and as a result, RCB remained in the hunt to chase down 165. In the end, Bharat and Maxwell maintained their composure to guide RCB to a win.

On the last ball, RCB needed five for a win, and Bharat ended up hitting the ball for a six. Earlier, Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan played knocks of 48 and 43 as Delhi Capitals posted a total of 164/5 against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Apart from Dhawan and Shaw, Shimron Hetmyer also got among the runs as he played a knock of 29. For RCB, Mohammed Siraj returned with two wickets. Sent into bat, Delhi Capitals got off to a brilliant start as openers Dhawan and Shaw put on 55 runs inside the first six overs. Both batters continued till the 10-over mark and as a result, Delhi was sitting nicely at 88/0.

However, the very first ball of the 11th over brought about Dhawan`s (43) dismissal as he was sent back to the pavilion by Purple Cap holder Harshal Patel.Soon after, Prithvi Shaw (48) and Rishabh Pant (10) were dismissed by Yuzvendra Chahal and Daniel Christian leaving Delhi Capitals at 108/3 in the 13th over.

In the end, Shimron Hetmyer played a quickfire cameo of 29 runs to propel Delhi`s total past the 160-run mark.

Brief Scores: Delhi Capitals 164/5 (Prithvi Shaw 48, Shikhar Dhawan 43, Mohammed Siraj 2-25) vs RCB 166/3 (Srikar Bharat 78*, Glenn Maxwell 51*, Anrich Nortje 2-24).&nbsp;

Srikar Bharat and Glenn Maxwell played unbeaten knocks of 78 and 51 respectively as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated Delhi Capitals by seven wickets in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 encounter here at the Dubai International Stadium on Friday.

Srikar Bharat and Glenn Maxwell played unbeaten knocks of 78 and 51 respectively as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated Delhi Capitals by seven wickets in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 encounter here at the Dubai International Stadium on Friday. Delhi Capitals finished at the top spot in the points table and now the side will square off against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Qualifier 1 on Sunday. On the other hand, RCB finished at the third spot and Virat Kohli`s team will face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Eliminator on Monday. Chasing 165, RCB got off to the worst start possible as Devdutt Padikkal (0) was sent back to the pavilion in the very first over by Anrich Nortje. The Proteas pacer did not stop there as in his next over, he got the big fish Virat Kohli (4) and RCB was reduced to 6/2.AB de Villiers and Srikar Bharat then got together at the crease and the duo retrieved the innings for RCB. Both batters put on 49 runs for the third wicket, but as soon as the innings started coming on track, Kohli`s side lost the wicket of de Villiers (26), still needing 110 runs to win from 63 balls. In the 14th over, Glenn Maxwell was dropped two times -- once by Shreyas Iyer and once by Ravichandran Ashwin and as a result, RCB remained in the hunt to chase down 165. In the end, Bharat and Maxwell maintained their composure to guide RCB to a win. On the last ball, RCB needed five for a win, and Bharat ended up hitting the ball for a six. Earlier, Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan played knocks of 48 and 43 as Delhi Capitals posted a total of 164/5 against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Apart from Dhawan and Shaw, Shimron Hetmyer also got among the runs as he played a knock of 29. For RCB, Mohammed Siraj returned with two wickets. Sent into bat, Delhi Capitals got off to a brilliant start as openers Dhawan and Shaw put on 55 runs inside the first six overs. Both batters continued till the 10-over mark and as a result, Delhi was sitting nicely at 88/0. However, the very first ball of the 11th over brought about Dhawan`s (43) dismissal as he was sent back to the pavilion by Purple Cap holder Harshal Patel.Soon after, Prithvi Shaw (48) and Rishabh Pant (10) were dismissed by Yuzvendra Chahal and Daniel Christian leaving Delhi Capitals at 108/3 in the 13th over. In the end, Shimron Hetmyer played a quickfire cameo of 29 runs to propel Delhi`s total past the 160-run mark. Brief Scores: Delhi Capitals 164/5 (Prithvi Shaw 48, Shikhar Dhawan 43, Mohammed Siraj 2-25) vs RCB 166/3 (Srikar Bharat 78*, Glenn Maxwell 51*, Anrich Nortje 2-24).

KS Bharat's 78 helps RCB pull off thrilling 7-wicket win against table-toppers Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021

Rohit Sharma is an IPL legend. To date, he remains the most successful IPL skipper with as many as 5 trophies for the Mumbai Indians (MI). In addition, he has won the IPL championship on six occasions. While he is also one of the leading run-getters (third) in the all-time list, with 5,594 runs, the right-hander hasn't had a 600-run season so far.

For the unversed, Rohit has never managed to cross the 500-run mark in the IPL apart from the 2013 season, where he led MI to their maiden title. Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir -- who is a huge fan of Hitman -- has opined on Rohit's IPL run and fails to understand how the swashbuckling opener hasn't crossed the 600-run mark in any IPL season.

Talking to&nbsp;EspnCricinfo, he said, "I don't understand why he never had that one big IPL season ever. And I have no reason to probably even defend him. He's a world-class player, I've always admired him, when he first busted onto the scene in international cricket. I said even then, that he's the best talent India has ever produced. And then proved himself in the int. stage but it just amazes me that when he wears that MI Jersey, he's never had a season like what VK or KL Rahul had - a 600 run season."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-more-shots-than-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-gautam-gambhir-makes-bold-claim-on-team-india-star-419176">'He has more shots than Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma' - Gautam Gambhir makes BOLD claim on Team India star</a>

Meanwhile, Rohit-led MI have not yet been disqualified from the IPL 2021 edition. While they haven't been at their best in the second and final leg, in the UAE, the sixth-ranked side&nbsp;have a very slim chance of entering the playoffs. If they beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 170 runs, in match 55 of the season on Friday evening, they can topple KKR to enter the playoffs as the fourth-ranked side.

Rohit Sharma is an IPL legend. To date, he remains the most successful IPL skipper with as many as 5 trophies for the Mumbai Indians (MI). In addition, he has won the IPL championship on six occasions.

Rohit Sharma is an IPL legend. To date, he remains the most successful IPL skipper with as many as 5 trophies for the Mumbai Indians (MI). In addition, he has won the IPL championship on six occasions. While he is also one of the leading run-getters (third) in the all-time list, with 5,594 runs, the right-hander hasn't had a 600-run season so far. For the unversed, Rohit has never managed to cross the 500-run mark in the IPL apart from the 2013 season, where he led MI to their maiden title. Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir -- who is a huge fan of Hitman -- has opined on Rohit's IPL run and fails to understand how the swashbuckling opener hasn't crossed the 600-run mark in any IPL season. Talking to EspnCricinfo, he said, "I don't understand why he never had that one big IPL season ever. And I have no reason to probably even defend him. He's a world-class player, I've always admired him, when he first busted onto the scene in international cricket. I said even then, that he's the best talent India has ever produced. And then proved himself in the int. stage but it just amazes me that when he wears that MI Jersey, he's never had a season like what VK or KL Rahul had - a 600 run season." ALSO READ | 'He has more shots than Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma' - Gautam Gambhir makes BOLD claim on Team India star Meanwhile, Rohit-led MI have not yet been disqualified from the IPL 2021 edition. While they haven't been at their best in the second and final leg, in the UAE, the sixth-ranked side have a very slim chance of entering the playoffs. If they beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 170 runs, in match 55 of the season on Friday evening, they can topple KKR to enter the playoffs as the fourth-ranked side.

I have no reason to defend him: Gautam Gambhir wonders why Rohit Sharma hasn't had a 600-run season in IPL

Match 53 of the IPL 2021 edition saw the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Thursday evening (October 7). In what was the last league stage game for both the sides, the Rahul-led Punjab franchise thrashed CSK by 6 wickets, and 7 overs to spare, to sign off on a high.

At the time of the win, Punjab was still mathematically alive in the playoffs race, but have now officially bowed out of the current edition (post KKR's massive win over RR) with 12 points under their belt. Captain Rahul stood tall in PBKS' memorable win over CSK (who are set to now enter the playoffs), where he led from the front to finish off the 135-run chase in style. The stylish right-hander -- who has been in sublime form for Team India since the England ODIs early this year -- smashed a 42-ball 98*, laced with&nbsp;eight sixes and&nbsp;seven boundaries.

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Seeing his range of strokes, ability to clear the ropes courtesy proper cricketing shots and to score in all parts of the ground, former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir has made a bold claim on Rahul.

“If you can bat like this, why don’t you bat like this? He probably has more ability than Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. I am not saying it just because I have seen KL Rahul doing it today, he just has it. He has got more shots than anyone else in India. And he showed that again,” Gambhir said on ESPNCricinfo.

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Rahul is currently the Orange Cap holder in IPL 14, with 626 runs in 13 innings at an average of 62.60 and strike-rate of 138.80. While his franchise PBKS' campaign has ended, he will look to carry on in a similar stead as India gear up for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, from October 17.

Match 53 of the IPL 2021 edition saw the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Thursday evening (October 7).

Match 53 of the IPL 2021 edition saw the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Thursday evening (October 7). In what was the last league stage game for both the sides, the Rahul-led Punjab franchise thrashed CSK by 6 wickets, and 7 overs to spare, to sign off on a high. At the time of the win, Punjab was still mathematically alive in the playoffs race, but have now officially bowed out of the current edition (post KKR's massive win over RR) with 12 points under their belt. Captain Rahul stood tall in PBKS' memorable win over CSK (who are set to now enter the playoffs), where he led from the front to finish off the 135-run chase in style. The stylish right-hander -- who has been in sublime form for Team India since the England ODIs early this year -- smashed a 42-ball 98*, laced with eight sixes and seven boundaries. ALSO READ | Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Rohit Sharma-led MI who face improbable task for playoffs spot Seeing his range of strokes, ability to clear the ropes courtesy proper cricketing shots and to score in all parts of the ground, former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir has made a bold claim on Rahul. “If you can bat like this, why don’t you bat like this? He probably has more ability than Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. I am not saying it just because I have seen KL Rahul doing it today, he just has it. He has got more shots than anyone else in India. And he showed that again,” Gambhir said on ESPNCricinfo. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: How MS Dhoni prompted Deepak Chahar to prepone his proposal plan for his beloved Jaya Bhardwaj Rahul is currently the Orange Cap holder in IPL 14, with 626 runs in 13 innings at an average of 62.60 and strike-rate of 138.80. While his franchise PBKS' campaign has ended, he will look to carry on in a similar stead as India gear up for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, from October 17.

'He has more shots than Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma' - Gautam Gambhir makes BOLD claim on Team India star

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will meet the Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition, on Friday evening (October 8). This will be the penultimate clash of the league stage as the competition heads to the playoffs.&nbsp;

Talking about the playoffs, Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are set to enter the last four whereas Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are firm favourites to secure the fourth spot. They have very much qualified, after a whopping 86-run win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Thursday (October 7), but MI still have an improbable task ahead to topple KKR and take the fourth spot in the SRH face-off.

It all seems done and dusted but MI still have a chance. They need to beat SRH by a whopping 170-run margin, or more, to move past KKR in NRR whereas they will be eliminated if they bat second. Ahead of the clash, here's the stats, trivia and squad details for SRH vs MI clash:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-explained-how-can-rohit-sharma-led-mi-still-topple-kkr-to-secure-playoffs-spot-419085">IPL 2021: EXPLAINED! How can Rohit Sharma-led MI still topple KKR to secure playoffs spot</a>

Head to Head:

Not much separate both sides as MI lead SRH by a whisker in head-to-head tally (9-8).&nbsp;

Stats

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">For the unversed, both MI and SRH's struggles are evident from the fact that they are the only sides with scoring rate under nine between overs 16-20 overs this season. In addition, they have lost the most wickets during this end overs.

Trivia

In UAE, MI lead SRH 2-1 whereas both sides have never locked horns at the Abu Dhabi Stadium.

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mi-vs-srh-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-mumbai-indians-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-418952">IPL 2021, MI vs SRH, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad?</a>

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Squads:

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">SRH:&nbsp;Jason Roy, Abhishek Sharma, Kane Williamson(c), Priyam Garg, Abdul Samad, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Jason Holder, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Umran Malik, Shreevats Goswami, Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammad Nabi, Jagadeesha Suchith, Shahbaz Nadeem, Khaleel Ahmed, Sandeep Sharma, Virat Singh, David Warner, Basil Thampi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">MI:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Saurabh Tiwary, Kieron Pollard, James Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jayant Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Quinton de Kock, Adam Milne, Krunal Pandya, Rahul Chahar, Piyush Chawla, Aditya Tare, Dhawal Kulkarni, Chris Lynn, Roosh Kalaria, Anmolpreet Singh, Anukul Roy, Marco Jansen, Yudhvir Singh

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will meet the Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition, on Friday evening (October 8).

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will meet the Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition, on Friday evening (October 8). This will be the penultimate clash of the league stage as the competition heads to the playoffs. Talking about the playoffs, Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are set to enter the last four whereas Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are firm favourites to secure the fourth spot. They have very much qualified, after a whopping 86-run win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Thursday (October 7), but MI still have an improbable task ahead to topple KKR and take the fourth spot in the SRH face-off. It all seems done and dusted but MI still have a chance. They need to beat SRH by a whopping 170-run margin, or more, to move past KKR in NRR whereas they will be eliminated if they bat second. Ahead of the clash, here's the stats, trivia and squad details for SRH vs MI clash: ALSO READ | IPL 2021: EXPLAINED! How can Rohit Sharma-led MI still topple KKR to secure playoffs spot Head to Head: Not much separate both sides as MI lead SRH by a whisker in head-to-head tally (9-8). Stats For the unversed, both MI and SRH's struggles are evident from the fact that they are the only sides with scoring rate under nine between overs 16-20 overs this season. In addition, they have lost the most wickets during this end overs. Trivia In UAE, MI lead SRH 2-1 whereas both sides have never locked horns at the Abu Dhabi Stadium. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, MI vs SRH, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad? Squads: SRH: Jason Roy, Abhishek Sharma, Kane Williamson(c), Priyam Garg, Abdul Samad, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Jason Holder, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Umran Malik, Shreevats Goswami, Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammad Nabi, Jagadeesha Suchith, Shahbaz Nadeem, Khaleel Ahmed, Sandeep Sharma, Virat Singh, David Warner, Basil Thampi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman MI: Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Saurabh Tiwary, Kieron Pollard, James Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jayant Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Quinton de Kock, Adam Milne, Krunal Pandya, Rahul Chahar, Piyush Chawla, Aditya Tare, Dhawal Kulkarni, Chris Lynn, Roosh Kalaria, Anmolpreet Singh, Anukul Roy, Marco Jansen, Yudhvir Singh

IPL 2021: MI vs SRH- Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

Match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions and five-time champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Friday (October 8). This will be the penultimate encounter of the league stage before the action moves to the playoffs.&nbsp;

After Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) hammered Rajasthan Royals (RR) by a whopping 86-run margin on Thursday (October 7), the MI franchise have a humungous and a near-impossible task to make it to the playoffs. Yes, MI are still alive in the race,&nbsp;but it is safe to claim that KKR have one foot in the playoffs. Thus, unless Mumbai pull off a miracle courtesy a huge win over SRH, they look set to bow out of the current edition on Friday evening.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-vs-srh-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-mumbai-indians-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-match-418938">MI vs SRH, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match?</a>

EXPLAINED! How can MI still topple KKR to secure the fourth spot?

MI can surely match KKR's points (14) with a win over SRH. However, a win won't guarantee them a spot in the last four. For them to move past KKR and enter the last round, Rohit &amp; Co. need to beat SRH by a whopping 171-run margin, or more. For the unversed, MI won't be able to qualify if SRH bat first. In such a case, they will fail out of the equation mathematically.&nbsp;

MI's net run-rate is&nbsp;-0.048 whereas KKR's&nbsp; +0.587. While MI had beaten RR by a huge 8-wicket margin, little did they know that KKR will produce an even more dominating performance versus the same opposition to bolster their chances further.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-after-kkr-stake-claim-for-playoffs-skipper-eoin-morgan-says-we-did-everything-right-418997">IPL 2021: After KKR stake claim for playoffs, skipper Eoin Morgan says, 'We did everything right'</a>

Given that MI have looked far away from their usual best in the second and final leg in the UAE, they will like to sign off on a high versus SRH. But at present, it looks a miraculous task ahead for them to advance further. On the other hand, KKR have done everything asked from them to remain in contention for the last four. Thus, MI's face-off versus SRH practically looks like their last of the season.&nbsp;

Match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions and five-time champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Friday (October 8).

Match 55 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions and five-time champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Friday (October 8). This will be the penultimate encounter of the league stage before the action moves to the playoffs. After Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) hammered Rajasthan Royals (RR) by a whopping 86-run margin on Thursday (October 7), the MI franchise have a humungous and a near-impossible task to make it to the playoffs. Yes, MI are still alive in the race, but it is safe to claim that KKR have one foot in the playoffs. Thus, unless Mumbai pull off a miracle courtesy a huge win over SRH, they look set to bow out of the current edition on Friday evening. ALSO READ | MI vs SRH, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match? EXPLAINED! How can MI still topple KKR to secure the fourth spot? MI can surely match KKR's points (14) with a win over SRH. However, a win won't guarantee them a spot in the last four. For them to move past KKR and enter the last round, Rohit & Co. need to beat SRH by a whopping 171-run margin, or more. For the unversed, MI won't be able to qualify if SRH bat first. In such a case, they will fail out of the equation mathematically. MI's net run-rate is -0.048 whereas KKR's +0.587. While MI had beaten RR by a huge 8-wicket margin, little did they know that KKR will produce an even more dominating performance versus the same opposition to bolster their chances further. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: After KKR stake claim for playoffs, skipper Eoin Morgan says, 'We did everything right' Given that MI have looked far away from their usual best in the second and final leg in the UAE, they will like to sign off on a high versus SRH. But at present, it looks a miraculous task ahead for them to advance further. On the other hand, KKR have done everything asked from them to remain in contention for the last four. Thus, MI's face-off versus SRH practically looks like their last of the season.

IPL 2021: EXPLAINED! How can Rohit Sharma-led MI still topple KKR to secure playoffs spot

Match 53 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the three-time champions MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. While the Yellow Army are certain to appear in the playoffs, they will be eager to register a win over the struggling Punjab franchise as they can't afford to enter the last four with three back-to-back defeats.&nbsp;

CSK lost a high-scoring game versus the Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Abu Dhabi before the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) exposed their fragile and vulnerable middle-order as the Chennai team lost to Delhi by 3 wickets despite putting up a fight in defence of 137, in Dubai, on Monday (October 4).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-as-mi-crush-rr-heres-how-mumbai-or-kkr-can-grab-the-4th-spot-in-ipl-2021-playoffs-418570">EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

On the other hand, PBKS have once again faltered in crunch situations in the ongoing IPL season to see themselves languishing in the bottom-half. For the unversed, PBKS aren't mathematically out of contention for the fourth playoffs spot, however, they need to thump CSK and hope for many other results to fall in their favour. In such an unlikely scenario of further qualification, PBKS are expected to come out all guns blazing versus CSK.&nbsp;

CSK will hope to add two more points and ensure themselves of a top-two finish. While they are also almost certain to end in the top-two, following Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday (October 6), Dhoni &amp; Co. will still like to demolish their opposition in style.

Match prediction: Run-scoring hasn't been very easy at Dubai. In the CSK vs DC clash, it was a two-paced surface which didn't help the batters but the pacers had something to rely on whereas the spinners also found some assistance and bounce. Hence, the surface will test both the camps as a moderate-scoring encounter looks on cards. However, batting should be easier in the afternoon game. Will CSK finally to get back to winning ways? They surely have the edge going into the contest.

Match 53 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the three-time champions MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Match 53 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the three-time champions MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lock horns with the KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. While the Yellow Army are certain to appear in the playoffs, they will be eager to register a win over the struggling Punjab franchise as they can't afford to enter the last four with three back-to-back defeats. CSK lost a high-scoring game versus the Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Abu Dhabi before the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) exposed their fragile and vulnerable middle-order as the Chennai team lost to Delhi by 3 wickets despite putting up a fight in defence of 137, in Dubai, on Monday (October 4). ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs On the other hand, PBKS have once again faltered in crunch situations in the ongoing IPL season to see themselves languishing in the bottom-half. For the unversed, PBKS aren't mathematically out of contention for the fourth playoffs spot, however, they need to thump CSK and hope for many other results to fall in their favour. In such an unlikely scenario of further qualification, PBKS are expected to come out all guns blazing versus CSK. CSK will hope to add two more points and ensure themselves of a top-two finish. While they are also almost certain to end in the top-two, following Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday (October 6), Dhoni & Co. will still like to demolish their opposition in style. Match prediction: Run-scoring hasn't been very easy at Dubai. In the CSK vs DC clash, it was a two-paced surface which didn't help the batters but the pacers had something to rely on whereas the spinners also found some assistance and bounce. Hence, the surface will test both the camps as a moderate-scoring encounter looks on cards. However, batting should be easier in the afternoon game. Will CSK finally to get back to winning ways? They surely have the edge going into the contest.

CSK vs PBKS, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings match?

Love is in the air! Always expect the unexpected in the Indian Premier League as, despite a loss against Punjab Kings on Thursday (October 7), the Chennai Super Kings camp has something special and memorable to celebrate as the team's star pacer Deepak Chahar proposed to his girlfriend in the most romantic way possible.

Love is in the air! Always expect the unexpected in the Indian Premier League as, despite a loss against Punjab Kings on Thursday (October 7), the Chennai Super Kings camp has something special and memorable to celebrate as the team's star pacer Deepak Chahar proposed to his girlfriend in the most romantic way possible. CSK's third defeat in a row didn't intimidate Chahar as he got on one knee and proposed to his girlfriend Jaya Bhardwaj, who was in the stands during the Match 53 of IPL 2021 in Dubai. ALSO READ | Who is Jaya Bhardwaj? All you need to know about CSK pacer Deepak Chahar's fiance Adorable videos and photos of the Bollywood-like proposal went viral on social media as fans and followers started sending their wishes and blessings for the cute couple. In the video, Chahar was seen placing the ring on his girlfriend's finger as she ecstatically said yes and hugged the cricketer. Watch how Deepak Chahar proposed to his girlfriend: She said yesssss.! 💍 Congratulations Cherry.! Stay Merry.! 😍🥳#WhistlePodu #Yellove 💛🦁 pic.twitter.com/qVmvVSuI7A — Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) October 7, 2021 × Chahar also posted the video on his Instagram handle and captioned it as a "special moment". In another post, the pacer wrote, "Picture says it all. Need all your blessings #taken" ALSO READ | 'Whether I'll be playing for CSK....' - MS Dhoni hints at calling it quits from IPL after 2021 season View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deepak Chahar (@deepak_chahar9) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deepak Chahar (@deepak_chahar9) × Deepak Chahar and his fiance after the proposals. pic.twitter.com/z2QX2y1ZYr — CricketMAN2 (@man4_cricket) October 7, 2021 × Man of the match: Deepak Chahar pic.twitter.com/viTgGocsuc — NR (@Nayab_tweetz) October 7, 2021 × During the match, skipper KL Rahul hit an unbeaten 98 to steer Punjab Kings to a convincing six-wicket win over CSK. Punjab, who finished with 12 points and need a miracle to make the playoffs, cruised to their victory target of 135 with seven overs to spare as Rahul smashed the winnings six in Dubai. Punjab pace bowlers Arshdeep Singh, a left-arm quick, and Chris Jordan took two wickets each to set up the win after they restricted Chennai to 134-6. South Africa's Faf du Plessis hit a 55-ball 76 but the rest of the batting fell apart including England import Moeen Ali out for nought off Singh. ALSO READ | Graeme Swann, Ajit Agarkar react as CSK skipper MS Dhoni hints at IPL retirement after 2021 season Rahul came out firing as he hit Australian fast bowler Josh Hazelwood for a six and two fours in the fourth over to set the tone for the chase. "Plan was clear, I had the license to go from ball one," said Rahul, who hit 7 fours and 8 sixes to top the IPL batting chart with 626 runs. "Today was one of those days where I could hit every ball." Punjab now rely on results of the other games for a place in the playoff. CSK, Delhi Capitals and Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore have made the final four.

Watch: She said yes! Deepak Chahar's Bollywood-like proposal to girlfriend during IPL match is ADORABLE

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition saw the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lock horns with the bottom-ranked Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening (October 6). Being asked to bat first, a struggling SRH camp managed a modest 141-7 riding on valuable contributions from Jason Roy, Williamson, etc.

In reply, RCB didn't have the best of starts but were comfortably placed at 92-3 in 14 overs; needing 50 off 36 balls with an in-form Glenn Maxwell in the middle. However, SRH bowlers didn't give anything away easily and combined to restrict Kohli &amp; Co. for a modest 137-6 and win by 4 runs. While Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jason Holder held their nerves in the death-overs, Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir's youngster Umran Malik also played his part with his raw pace and tidy spell; 4-0-21-1.

Umran has already made heads turn with his pace. For the unversed, he also&nbsp;bowled the fastest delivery (152.95 km/h) in IPL 2021 during the RCB face-off. He also showed his ability to bowl as per the situation and hold his nerves in crunch moments. Hence, he was noticed by RCB and Indian captain Kohli.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whether-ill-be-playing-for-csk-ms-dhoni-hints-at-calling-it-quits-from-ipl-after-2021-season-418865">'Whether I'll be playing for CSK....' - MS Dhoni hints at calling it quits from IPL after 2021 season</a>

At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "This tournament throws up talent every year, good to see a guy bowling at 150 clicks. It is important to understand the progress of individuals from hereon. The pool of fast bowlers being strong is always a good sign for Indian cricket and whenever you see talent like this, you are going to have your eyes on them and make sure you maximise their potential, which is already being seen at the IPL level," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketer-umran-malik-sets-record-in-ipl-jammu-kashmir-celebrates-his-success-418207">Cricketer Umran Malik sets record in IPL, Jammu Kashmir celebrates his success</a>

In the recent past, Indian cricket have been blessed with a plethora of talented speedsters. Umran is the latest addition and it will be interesting to see how the 21-year-old speedster progresses from hereon after being noticed in just a handful of appearances for SRH in IPL 2021.

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition saw the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lock horns with the bottom-ranked Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening (October 6).

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition saw the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lock horns with the bottom-ranked Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening (October 6). Being asked to bat first, a struggling SRH camp managed a modest 141-7 riding on valuable contributions from Jason Roy, Williamson, etc. In reply, RCB didn't have the best of starts but were comfortably placed at 92-3 in 14 overs; needing 50 off 36 balls with an in-form Glenn Maxwell in the middle. However, SRH bowlers didn't give anything away easily and combined to restrict Kohli & Co. for a modest 137-6 and win by 4 runs. While Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jason Holder held their nerves in the death-overs, Jammu and Kashmir's youngster Umran Malik also played his part with his raw pace and tidy spell; 4-0-21-1. Umran has already made heads turn with his pace. For the unversed, he also bowled the fastest delivery (152.95 km/h) in IPL 2021 during the RCB face-off. He also showed his ability to bowl as per the situation and hold his nerves in crunch moments. Hence, he was noticed by RCB and Indian captain Kohli. ALSO READ | 'Whether I'll be playing for CSK....' - MS Dhoni hints at calling it quits from IPL after 2021 season At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "This tournament throws up talent every year, good to see a guy bowling at 150 clicks. It is important to understand the progress of individuals from hereon. The pool of fast bowlers being strong is always a good sign for Indian cricket and whenever you see talent like this, you are going to have your eyes on them and make sure you maximise their potential, which is already being seen at the IPL level," he added. ALSO READ | Cricketer Umran Malik sets record in IPL, Jammu Kashmir celebrates his success In the recent past, Indian cricket have been blessed with a plethora of talented speedsters. Umran is the latest addition and it will be interesting to see how the 21-year-old speedster progresses from hereon after being noticed in just a handful of appearances for SRH in IPL 2021.

IPL 2021: Umran Malik impresses RCB's Virat Kohli, India captain keen to track speedster's progress

Harshal Patel of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) now holds the record of taking the most number of wickets in an Indian Premier League (IPL) season as an Indian.

Harshal Patel of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) now holds the record of taking the most number of wickets in an Indian Premier League (IPL) season as an Indian. In the Match 52 of IPL 2021 in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (October 6), Patel achieved the feat against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as he took 29 wickets so far in the season. Previously, the record was held by Mumbai Indians pacer Jasprit Bumrah when he took 27 wickets in the 2020 season. Sunrisers Hyderabad seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar stands third in terms of most wickets scalped by Indians in an IPL season when he took 26 wickets in the 2017 season. ALSO READ | 'The reason why he is more successful': Gautam Gambhir opens up on Virat Kohli's playing style Overall, Chennai Super Kings' Dwayne Bravo and Delhi Capitals' Kagiso Rabada lead that tally. Bravo had 32 wickets in the 2013 season while Rabada had 30 in the last season. Patel stands third on the list. During the match, bottom-placed Sunrisers Hyderabad dented Royal Challengers Bangalore hopes of a top-two finish with a narrow four-run win in a last-over IPL thriller. The 30-year-old Patel took the wickets of SRH captain Kane Williamson, Wriddhiman Saha and Jason Holder. A look at the Points Table after Match 52 of #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/7DNFup4qDg — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 6, 2021 × After putting on board a modest 141 for 7, SRH returned to limit RCB to 137 for six for only their third win in the league. Next, RCB will face Delhi Capital in the last league match of IPL 2021 at the Dubai International Stadium on October 8. Brief Scores: Sunrisers Hyderabad 141/7 in 20 overs (Jason Roy 44, Kane Williamson 31, Harshal Patel 3/33, Daniel Christian 2/14) beat Royal Challengers Bangalore 137/6 in 20 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 41, Glenn Maxwell 40, Umran Malik 1/21, Siddarth Kaul 1/24) by four runs.

IPL: Harshal Patel breaks Jasprit Bumrah's record of most wickets by an Indian bowler in a season

Match 54 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time winners Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lock horns with the one-time champions Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Thursday evening (October 7).&nbsp;

The clash is of great significance for the KKR line-up, who already have one foot in the last-four but will like to end all hopes of Mumbai Indians (MI) -- their closest rival for the fourth position -- with a thumping win over RR. Talking about the form of both sides, RR are coming into this clash with a heavy defeat at the hands of MI, by 8 wickets and 70 balls to spare. Samson &amp; Co. have once again looked good in patches this season but have largely remained inconsistent, to be very much out of the playoffs race.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-pbks-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-punjab-kings-match-418689">CSK vs PBKS, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings match?</a>

RR have a slim chance to make it to the last four. For that, they need to thrash KKR by 125 runs and hope that the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) slam MI by 40, or more, runs in the last league stage encounter. On the other hand, KKR still have fate in their own hands, along with a much-better net-run rate as compared to MI, and should make it to the last four.

The equation is simple for them: win versus RR and proceed further. After a win, KKR will be very much be through as MI are far behind in NRR.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-as-mi-crush-rr-heres-how-mumbai-or-kkr-can-grab-the-4th-spot-in-ipl-2021-playoffs-418570">EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

Match prediction for KKR vs RR tie: The Sharjah surface has been the toughest of the lot in the UAE leg. Who would have thought that once regarded as the 'graveyard for bowlers' track would churn out plenty of low-scoring encounters in the current edition. Expect pacers to get much assistance in the slow and low conditions on offer. Chasing can be dicey in Sharjah but KKR haven't lost a single game while batting second in the UAE leg. Another 130-135-plus scoring affair with KKR to emerge on top?

Match 54 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time winners Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lock horns with the one-time champions Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Thursday evening (October 7).

Match 54 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time winners Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lock horns with the one-time champions Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Thursday evening (October 7). The clash is of great significance for the KKR line-up, who already have one foot in the last-four but will like to end all hopes of Mumbai Indians (MI) -- their closest rival for the fourth position -- with a thumping win over RR. Talking about the form of both sides, RR are coming into this clash with a heavy defeat at the hands of MI, by 8 wickets and 70 balls to spare. Samson & Co. have once again looked good in patches this season but have largely remained inconsistent, to be very much out of the playoffs race. ALSO READ | CSK vs PBKS, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings match? RR have a slim chance to make it to the last four. For that, they need to thrash KKR by 125 runs and hope that the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) slam MI by 40, or more, runs in the last league stage encounter. On the other hand, KKR still have fate in their own hands, along with a much-better net-run rate as compared to MI, and should make it to the last four. The equation is simple for them: win versus RR and proceed further. After a win, KKR will be very much be through as MI are far behind in NRR. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs Match prediction for KKR vs RR tie: The Sharjah surface has been the toughest of the lot in the UAE leg. Who would have thought that once regarded as the 'graveyard for bowlers' track would churn out plenty of low-scoring encounters in the current edition. Expect pacers to get much assistance in the slow and low conditions on offer. Chasing can be dicey in Sharjah but KKR haven't lost a single game while batting second in the UAE leg. Another 130-135-plus scoring affair with KKR to emerge on top?

KKR vs RR, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals match?

MS Dhoni has been in terrible form in the IPL 2021 edition. While the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper continues to read the game brilliantly and has led the side to the playoffs, the 40-year-old hasn't lived upto expectations with the bat. The superstar cricketer has amassed just 84 runs, at an average of 14 and strike-rate of 97.67.&nbsp;

Though his ardent fans can rightly point out that Dhoni has faced just 86 deliveries in IPL 2021, the CSK captain hasn't looked comfortable or anywhere near his best in terms of finding his rhythm and striking the ball with ease. Ahead of CSK's last league stage encounter, versus Punjab Kings (PBKS), and their playoffs journey, former Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir opined on Dhoni's struggles and shared a word of advice for him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-csk-vs-pbks-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-chennai-super-kings-vs-punjab-kings-418700">IPL 2021, CSK vs PBKS, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings?</a>

"He needs to bat to be a threat. He doesn't bat enough balls in the game, so he needs to bat first," Gambhir said on&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.

Windies legend Ian Bishop also agreed with Gambhir in the same discussion and opined, "Yeah, Dhoni doesn't seem to be firing so there are other guys, certainly Ravindra Jadeja, that I would like to see get more batting opportunities. I think we've seen that over the course of this season, Dhoni doesn't seem like he'll recapture his form."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-pbks-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-punjab-kings-match-418689">CSK vs PBKS, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings match?</a>

Dhoni came out to bat at No. 6 in CSK's previous game versus the Delhi Capitals (DC), in Dubai on Monday (October 4), and returned for an uninspiring 27-ball 18, with not even a single boundary. His below-par knock, at a strike-rate of 66.67, didn't help Chennai as they piled up a modest 136-5, riding on Ambati Rayudu's 55 not out. In response, DC chased down the total in the last over with 3 wickets in hand.&nbsp;

The Dhoni loyalists will, however, hope that the veteran batsman gets some time in the middle in the PBKS clash and regains his timing and power-hitting abilities before the three-time champions CSK head to the playoffs.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni has been in terrible form in the IPL 2021 edition. While the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper continues to read the game brilliantly and has led the side to the playoffs, the 40-year-old hasn't lived upto expectations with the bat.

MS Dhoni has been in terrible form in the IPL 2021 edition. While the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper continues to read the game brilliantly and has led the side to the playoffs, the 40-year-old hasn't lived upto expectations with the bat. The superstar cricketer has amassed just 84 runs, at an average of 14 and strike-rate of 97.67. Though his ardent fans can rightly point out that Dhoni has faced just 86 deliveries in IPL 2021, the CSK captain hasn't looked comfortable or anywhere near his best in terms of finding his rhythm and striking the ball with ease. Ahead of CSK's last league stage encounter, versus Punjab Kings (PBKS), and their playoffs journey, former Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir opined on Dhoni's struggles and shared a word of advice for him. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, CSK vs PBKS, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings? "He needs to bat to be a threat. He doesn't bat enough balls in the game, so he needs to bat first," Gambhir said on ESPNCricinfo. Windies legend Ian Bishop also agreed with Gambhir in the same discussion and opined, "Yeah, Dhoni doesn't seem to be firing so there are other guys, certainly Ravindra Jadeja, that I would like to see get more batting opportunities. I think we've seen that over the course of this season, Dhoni doesn't seem like he'll recapture his form." ALSO READ | CSK vs PBKS, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings match? Dhoni came out to bat at No. 6 in CSK's previous game versus the Delhi Capitals (DC), in Dubai on Monday (October 4), and returned for an uninspiring 27-ball 18, with not even a single boundary. His below-par knock, at a strike-rate of 66.67, didn't help Chennai as they piled up a modest 136-5, riding on Ambati Rayudu's 55 not out. In response, DC chased down the total in the last over with 3 wickets in hand. The Dhoni loyalists will, however, hope that the veteran batsman gets some time in the middle in the PBKS clash and regains his timing and power-hitting abilities before the three-time champions CSK head to the playoffs.

'He needs to...' - Gautam Gambhir opines on MS Dhoni's struggles, has a word of advice for CSK skipper

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lock horns with the bottom-ranked Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (October 6).&nbsp;

The match will present RCB a chance to get to 18 points as the Kane Williamson-led SRH camp has struggled for a win throughout the IPL 14 season. RCB have another game after the SRH tie and, thus, they will hope to end in top-two since MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have now lost two in a row and can end at the third spot. Their several match-winners such as Devdutt Padikkal, Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel, etc. make them overwhelming favourites vs SRH.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rcb-vs-srh-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-royal-challengers-bangalore-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-418428">IPL 2021, RCB vs SRH, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad?</a>

SRH, meanwhile, have only themselves to blame for such a lackluster performance throughout IPL 14 but they will be desperate to sign off on a high with back-to-back wins, with their last game versus Mumbai Indians (MI). The ardent Hyderabad fans would hope for their younger brigade to take more responsibility in the remaining two games as they look set to make significant changes with the mega auction coming up in few months, before IPL 2022. It will also be tempting to see if David Warner, who was present at the stands during SRH-KKR game, will get a look-in or continues to sit out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-5-lowest-scores-by-virat-kohli-led-rcb-after-flop-show-vs-kkr-in-match-31-414520#rcbs-49-all-out-vs-kkr-414511">IPL 2021: 5 lowest scores by Virat Kohli-led RCB after flop show vs KKR in Match 31</a>

Match prediction for RCB vs SRH clash: Given the form of RCB and SRH's never-ending woes this season, RCB look certain to get to 18 points and strengthen their case for a top-two finish. The venue has offered some pace and help for the batters as a 150-155-plus score is expected in match 52. It will be interesting to see if dew sets in the latter half of the match, as stated by Dhoni during CSK-RR clash recently. If dew is a factor, batting second will be preferred by both sides.

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lock horns with the bottom-ranked Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (October 6).

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lock horns with the bottom-ranked Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (October 6). The match will present RCB a chance to get to 18 points as the Kane Williamson-led SRH camp has struggled for a win throughout the IPL 14 season. RCB have another game after the SRH tie and, thus, they will hope to end in top-two since MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have now lost two in a row and can end at the third spot. Their several match-winners such as Devdutt Padikkal, Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel, etc. make them overwhelming favourites vs SRH. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, RCB vs SRH, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad? SRH, meanwhile, have only themselves to blame for such a lackluster performance throughout IPL 14 but they will be desperate to sign off on a high with back-to-back wins, with their last game versus Mumbai Indians (MI). The ardent Hyderabad fans would hope for their younger brigade to take more responsibility in the remaining two games as they look set to make significant changes with the mega auction coming up in few months, before IPL 2022. It will also be tempting to see if David Warner, who was present at the stands during SRH-KKR game, will get a look-in or continues to sit out. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: 5 lowest scores by Virat Kohli-led RCB after flop show vs KKR in Match 31 Match prediction for RCB vs SRH clash: Given the form of RCB and SRH's never-ending woes this season, RCB look certain to get to 18 points and strengthen their case for a top-two finish. The venue has offered some pace and help for the batters as a 150-155-plus score is expected in match 52. It will be interesting to see if dew sets in the latter half of the match, as stated by Dhoni during CSK-RR clash recently. If dew is a factor, batting second will be preferred by both sides.

RCB vs SRH, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match?

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the in-form Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) take on the off-form Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday evening (October 6). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.<o:p></o:p>

The pitch in Abu Dhabi is two-paced, making it tough for batsmen to play their strokes. For the batters, judging the pace of the ball becomes tricky since some deliveries hold up while others come at the predicted rate. Captains usually have looked to bat first after winning the toss.<o:p></o:p>

The two teams will be facing each other for the second time in the IPL. The earlier face-off was won by RCB at MA Chidambaram Stadium by 6 runs.

<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ziva-dhoni-breaks-the-internet-as-she-prays-for-csk-sitting-on-sakshis-lap-during-dc-face-off-418348">IPL 2021: Ziva Dhoni breaks the internet as she prays for CSK, sitting on Sakshi's lap, during DC face-off</a>

SRH has been particularly poor this season and they are at the bottom of the table with just two wins in 12 games. The batting department has struggled in the absence of Jonny Bairstow. Veteran India pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Siddarth Kaul also hasn’t contributed enough with the ball. Jason Holder comparatively has fared well.<o:p></o:p>

On the other hand, RCB will be looking to win this game to bolster their chances of finishing in Top 2. <o:p></o:p>

While SRH would be looking for a win to gain some confidence and end the season on a high note, but they can spoil RCB’s chances of finishing as one of the top-two sides. They have been spectacular this season, winning&nbsp;eight out of 12 games.<o:p></o:p>

RCB's bowling unit has also responded admirably to the team's call, with pace bowlers Mohammed Siraj, George Garton, and Harshal Patel performing well. Yuzvendra Chahal, who has overcome his previous problems with some really good spells this season, will lead the spin team. Their batting, on the other hand, will rely largely on skipper Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Devdutt Padikkal, and all-rounder Glenn Maxwell.<o:p></o:p>

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:<o:p></o:p>

Where is the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad taking place? <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-ravindra-jadeja-gautam-gambhir-picks-ms-dhoni-led-csks-standout-player-since-their-ipl-return-in-2018-418383">Not Ravindra Jadeja! Gautam Gambhir picks MS Dhoni-led CSK's standout player since their IPL return in 2018</a>

What time does the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad begin? <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday.<o:p></o:p>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad? <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between SRH&nbsp;vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.<o:p></o:p>

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the in-form Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) take on the off-form Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday evening (October 6).

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the in-form Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) take on the off-form Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday evening (October 6). The game will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. The pitch in Abu Dhabi is two-paced, making it tough for batsmen to play their strokes. For the batters, judging the pace of the ball becomes tricky since some deliveries hold up while others come at the predicted rate. Captains usually have looked to bat first after winning the toss. The two teams will be facing each other for the second time in the IPL. The earlier face-off was won by RCB at MA Chidambaram Stadium by 6 runs. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Ziva Dhoni breaks the internet as she prays for CSK, sitting on Sakshi's lap, during DC face-off SRH has been particularly poor this season and they are at the bottom of the table with just two wins in 12 games. The batting department has struggled in the absence of Jonny Bairstow. Veteran India pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Siddarth Kaul also hasn’t contributed enough with the ball. Jason Holder comparatively has fared well. On the other hand, RCB will be looking to win this game to bolster their chances of finishing in Top 2. While SRH would be looking for a win to gain some confidence and end the season on a high note, but they can spoil RCB’s chances of finishing as one of the top-two sides. They have been spectacular this season, winning eight out of 12 games. RCB's bowling unit has also responded admirably to the team's call, with pace bowlers Mohammed Siraj, George Garton, and Harshal Patel performing well. Yuzvendra Chahal, who has overcome his previous problems with some really good spells this season, will lead the spin team. Their batting, on the other hand, will rely largely on skipper Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Devdutt Padikkal, and all-rounder Glenn Maxwell. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad taking place? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. ALSO READ | Not Ravindra Jadeja! Gautam Gambhir picks MS Dhoni-led CSK's standout player since their IPL return in 2018 What time does the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad begin? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday. Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad? The IPL 2021 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between SRH vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

IPL 2021, RCB vs SRH, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad?

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) haven't been at their very best in the IPL 2021 edition. The defending champions and five-time winners still remain alive in the playoffs race, however, the Mumbai franchise have a tough battle with the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in order to grab the fourth spot.

Despite MI having lots to do in order to qualify for the playoffs, the 34-year-old Rohit has been at his cheeky best off the 22-yard cricket strip. Recently, Rohit turned into a prankster and hilariously trolled his wife Ritika Sajdeh, sharing the video on his official Instagram handle. On Wednesday (October 6), Rohit once again entertained his fans and came up with a hilarious video where he imitated some of the legendary cricketers, such as Sachin Tendulkar, MI coach Mahela Jayawardene and Harbhajan Singh.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-as-mi-crush-rr-heres-how-mumbai-or-kkr-can-grab-the-4th-spot-in-ipl-2021-playoffs-418570">EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

Here's Rohit's on-point imitation of the legendary players:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-he-can-gautam-gambhir-slams-mis-hardik-pandya-for-not-bowling-in-ipl-2021-ahead-of-t20-wc-418667">'Don't think he can...' - Gautam Gambhir slams MI's Hardik Pandya for not bowling in IPL 2021 ahead of T20 WC</a>

While the comment&nbsp;section is filled with many names, Rohit imitated MI's former skippers Tendulkar, Bhajji and current head coach Jayawardene.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (October 5), Rohit-led MI pulled off a thumping win over one-time winners Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah in match 51. Asking RR to bat first, Rohit &amp; Co. rode on Nathan Coulter-Nile's 4-fer and Jimmy Neesham's three-wicket haul to bundle out RR for a mere 90. In reply, MI chased down the total with 8 wickets and 70 balls to spare.&nbsp;

Rohit-led MI, thus, remain in contention for the fourth playoffs spot. However, they still need to beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by a big margin and hope for RR to beat KKR to progress into the last four.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) haven't been at their very best in the IPL 2021 edition. The defending champions and five-time winners still remain alive in the playoffs race, however, the Mumbai franchise have a tough battle with the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in order to grab the fourth spot.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) haven't been at their very best in the IPL 2021 edition. The defending champions and five-time winners still remain alive in the playoffs race, however, the Mumbai franchise have a tough battle with the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in order to grab the fourth spot. Despite MI having lots to do in order to qualify for the playoffs, the 34-year-old Rohit has been at his cheeky best off the 22-yard cricket strip. Recently, Rohit turned into a prankster and hilariously trolled his wife Ritika Sajdeh, sharing the video on his official Instagram handle. On Wednesday (October 6), Rohit once again entertained his fans and came up with a hilarious video where he imitated some of the legendary cricketers, such as Sachin Tendulkar, MI coach Mahela Jayawardene and Harbhajan Singh. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs Here's Rohit's on-point imitation of the legendary players: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rohit Sharma (@rohitsharma45) × ALSO READ | 'Don't think he can...' - Gautam Gambhir slams MI's Hardik Pandya for not bowling in IPL 2021 ahead of T20 WC While the comment section is filled with many names, Rohit imitated MI's former skippers Tendulkar, Bhajji and current head coach Jayawardene. On Tuesday (October 5), Rohit-led MI pulled off a thumping win over one-time winners Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah in match 51. Asking RR to bat first, Rohit & Co. rode on Nathan Coulter-Nile's 4-fer and Jimmy Neesham's three-wicket haul to bundle out RR for a mere 90. In reply, MI chased down the total with 8 wickets and 70 balls to spare. Rohit-led MI, thus, remain in contention for the fourth playoffs spot. However, they still need to beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by a big margin and hope for RR to beat KKR to progress into the last four.

IPL 2021: Man of many talents! Rohit Sharma imitates MI legends, shares video on Instagram - WATCH

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the one-time champions and the current edition's bottom-ranked side Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) lock horns with the three-time champions Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening (October 6).

The battle will see the RCB franchise start as favourites as they have already qualified for the playoffs and are looking at their dominating best. RCB are currently at the third position. The Kohli-led franchise will be eager to continue with their winning streak to ensure a top-two finish, going past MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) who are currently a spot above Bengaluru.

On the other hand, problems are aplenty for the Hyderabad line-up. The whole season has been a disastrous one for SRH with out-of-form players, changes in line-up, David Warner's sacking from captaincy followed up his omission; adding to their woes. Nonetheless, they will now like to sign off on a high with wins in their remaining two encounters. However, it will be tough for them to stop a rampant RCB franchise.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/august-15-again-ms-dhoni-drops-a-bomb-on-his-ipl-future-says-you-can-bid-me-farewell-in-chennai-418461">August 15 again? MS Dhoni drops a bomb on his IPL future, says you can bid me farewell in Chennai</a>

Ahead of the clash, here's a look at the head-to-head, trivia, stats and squads for both sides:

Head-to-head

Despite their very poor form, SRH can draw some inspiration from the fact that they lead RCB 10-8 in head-to-head battle.

Stats

RCB will be eager to seal a win over SRH as they are only a victory away from registering a total of 100 wins in the IPL.

Trivia

Kohli &amp; Co. have clicked in the middle-overs with the bat and ball, but they are yet to take a wicket in the powerplay overs&nbsp;during the second and final leg of the season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-as-mi-crush-rr-heres-how-mumbai-or-kkr-can-grab-the-4th-spot-in-ipl-2021-playoffs-418570">EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

Squads:

Royal Challengers Bangalore:&nbsp;Virat Kohli(c), Devdutt Padikkal, Daniel Christian, Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers, Shahbaz Ahmed, Srikar Bharat(w), George Garton, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Dushmantha Chameera, Sachin Baby, Kyle Jamieson, Navdeep Saini, Pavan Deshpande, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Wanindu Hasaranga, Suyash Prabhudessai, Tim David, Akash Deep

Sunrisers Hyderabad:&nbsp;Jason Roy, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Kane Williamson(c), Priyam Garg, Abhishek Sharma, Abdul Samad, Jason Holder, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Umran Malik, Sandeep Sharma, Manish Pandey, Khaleel Ahmed, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Sherfane Rutherford, Jagadeesha Suchith, Mohammad Nabi, Basil Thampi, Virat Singh, Shahbaz Nadeem, David Warner, Shreevats Goswami, Kedar Jadhav

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the one-time champions and the current edition's bottom-ranked side Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) lock horns with the three-time champions Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening (October 6).

Match 52 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the one-time champions and the current edition's bottom-ranked side Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) lock horns with the three-time champions Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening (October 6). The battle will see the RCB franchise start as favourites as they have already qualified for the playoffs and are looking at their dominating best. RCB are currently at the third position. The Kohli-led franchise will be eager to continue with their winning streak to ensure a top-two finish, going past MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) who are currently a spot above Bengaluru. On the other hand, problems are aplenty for the Hyderabad line-up. The whole season has been a disastrous one for SRH with out-of-form players, changes in line-up, David Warner's sacking from captaincy followed up his omission; adding to their woes. Nonetheless, they will now like to sign off on a high with wins in their remaining two encounters. However, it will be tough for them to stop a rampant RCB franchise. ALSO READ | August 15 again? MS Dhoni drops a bomb on his IPL future, says you can bid me farewell in Chennai Ahead of the clash, here's a look at the head-to-head, trivia, stats and squads for both sides: Head-to-head Despite their very poor form, SRH can draw some inspiration from the fact that they lead RCB 10-8 in head-to-head battle. Stats RCB will be eager to seal a win over SRH as they are only a victory away from registering a total of 100 wins in the IPL. Trivia Kohli & Co. have clicked in the middle-overs with the bat and ball, but they are yet to take a wicket in the powerplay overs during the second and final leg of the season. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs Squads: Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli(c), Devdutt Padikkal, Daniel Christian, Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers, Shahbaz Ahmed, Srikar Bharat(w), George Garton, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Dushmantha Chameera, Sachin Baby, Kyle Jamieson, Navdeep Saini, Pavan Deshpande, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Wanindu Hasaranga, Suyash Prabhudessai, Tim David, Akash Deep Sunrisers Hyderabad: Jason Roy, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Kane Williamson(c), Priyam Garg, Abhishek Sharma, Abdul Samad, Jason Holder, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Umran Malik, Sandeep Sharma, Manish Pandey, Khaleel Ahmed, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Sherfane Rutherford, Jagadeesha Suchith, Mohammad Nabi, Basil Thampi, Virat Singh, Shahbaz Nadeem, David Warner, Shreevats Goswami, Kedar Jadhav

IPL 2021: RCB vs SRH- Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

On Tuesday (October 5), the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) thrashed Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 8 wickets, and 70 balls to spare, to keep their IPL 2021 playoffs hopes alive. With Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) already occupying three out of the four playoffs spot, the race is now between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and MI to book the remaining slot.

While RR and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are still mathematically in contention to seal the fourth spot, there chances are negligible. Here's an explainer on how MI or KKR can seal the fourth spot:

Eoin Morgan-led KKR: The two-time winners have revamped in style in the UAE leg and now have 6 wins in 13 games, with an impressive net-run rate of +0.294. The biggest plus for KKR is that they still have fate in their own hands and the equation is pretty simple for them; one the last game and qualify. However, they will like to demolish RR to further bolster their chances and give no room to MI on account of net run-rate.&nbsp;On the other hand, a defeat can make things tough for Kolkata as Mumbai could topple them by winning their final game of the league campaign; i.e. versus already-eliminated and bottom-lying Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

What is interesting to note that even if KKR lose to RR, they can still make the playoffs if MI are beaten by SRH or in case Mumbai win versus SRH but only by a narrow margin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-srh-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-royal-challengers-bangalore-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-match-418490">RCB vs SRH, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match?</a>

Rohit's charged-up MI:&nbsp;With equal wins and loss, just like KKR, MI are now at the 5th spot in the points table. However, they still have an inferior net-run rate of -0.048 as compared to Kolkata. If KKR lose to RR and MI beat SRH, the five-time winners will proceed ahead but they will like to thrash SRH, as they mauled RR on Tuesday evening; to march ahead on the basis of net-run rate.

On the other hand, if KKR emerge on top of RR, MI's hopes would be all but over. Again, Rohit &amp; Co. will remain alive but only mathematically in such a case as they will have to beat SRH in an even more dominant way, like they did versus Rajasthan, to go through. Even if KKR lose to RR, their margin of defeat will be closely monitored by the MI franchise.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-ipl-teams-likely-to-be-sold-for-inr-30-35-billion-mega-auction-can-take-place-in-december-punjab-kings-co-owner-418333">New IPL teams likely to be sold for INR 30-35 billion, mega auction can take place in December: Punjab Kings co-owner</a>

For the RR and PBKS fans, their teams are also still alive in the playoffs race but their chances remain very slim. Both sides have one more game in hand, versus KKR and CSK respectively, and will have to beat them by a huge margin and also hope for other results to favour them to grab the fourth spot. As of now, that looks highly unlikely.

IPL 2021 playoffs will commence from October 10&nbsp;(Sunday) whereas the final will be played on October 15.

On Tuesday (October 5), the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) thrashed Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 8 wickets, and 70 balls to spare, to keep their IPL 2021 playoffs hopes alive.

On Tuesday (October 5), the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) thrashed Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 8 wickets, and 70 balls to spare, to keep their IPL 2021 playoffs hopes alive. With Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) already occupying three out of the four playoffs spot, the race is now between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and MI to book the remaining slot. While RR and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are still mathematically in contention to seal the fourth spot, there chances are negligible. Here's an explainer on how MI or KKR can seal the fourth spot: Eoin Morgan-led KKR: The two-time winners have revamped in style in the UAE leg and now have 6 wins in 13 games, with an impressive net-run rate of +0.294. The biggest plus for KKR is that they still have fate in their own hands and the equation is pretty simple for them; one the last game and qualify. However, they will like to demolish RR to further bolster their chances and give no room to MI on account of net run-rate. On the other hand, a defeat can make things tough for Kolkata as Mumbai could topple them by winning their final game of the league campaign; i.e. versus already-eliminated and bottom-lying Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). What is interesting to note that even if KKR lose to RR, they can still make the playoffs if MI are beaten by SRH or in case Mumbai win versus SRH but only by a narrow margin. ALSO READ | RCB vs SRH, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match? Rohit's charged-up MI: With equal wins and loss, just like KKR, MI are now at the 5th spot in the points table. However, they still have an inferior net-run rate of -0.048 as compared to Kolkata. If KKR lose to RR and MI beat SRH, the five-time winners will proceed ahead but they will like to thrash SRH, as they mauled RR on Tuesday evening; to march ahead on the basis of net-run rate. On the other hand, if KKR emerge on top of RR, MI's hopes would be all but over. Again, Rohit & Co. will remain alive but only mathematically in such a case as they will have to beat SRH in an even more dominant way, like they did versus Rajasthan, to go through. Even if KKR lose to RR, their margin of defeat will be closely monitored by the MI franchise. ALSO READ | New IPL teams likely to be sold for INR 30-35 billion, mega auction can take place in December: Punjab Kings co-owner For the RR and PBKS fans, their teams are also still alive in the playoffs race but their chances remain very slim. Both sides have one more game in hand, versus KKR and CSK respectively, and will have to beat them by a huge margin and also hope for other results to favour them to grab the fourth spot. As of now, that looks highly unlikely. IPL 2021 playoffs will commence from October 10 (Sunday) whereas the final will be played on October 15.

EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will lock horns with Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a must-win encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Tuesday (October 05). Both teams are still in the hunt for a spot in the playoffs, however, Mumbai Indians are not guaranteed of qualification even if they win their remaining two matches.

Mumbai Indians are currently placed seventh on the points table with 10 points from 12 matches and the worst net run rate among all four teams in the fray to seal the final fourth spot in the playoffs. MI will have to beat Rajasthan on Tuesday to ensure they remain alive in the competition as a defeat will confirm their exit.

MI might not still make it even if they win their remaining two matches due to their inferior net run rate, however, Rohit &amp; Co. will be hoping to finish on a high with two victories in a row and expect the other results to go in their favour. On the other hand, Rajasthan Royals have their fate in their own hands.

They are currently placed sixth with ten points from 12 matches and have to win both their matches to qualify for the playoffs without needing a favour from any other team. They face their direct-rivals MI and KKR in their next two games.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-playoffs-qualification-scenario-explained-can-mumbai-indians-punjab-kings-still-qualify-418113">IPL 2021 playoffs qualification scenario explained: Can Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings still qualify?</a>

Samson &amp; Co. had pulled off a stunning seven-wicket win against MS Dhoni's CSK in their last game to keep their playoffs hopes alive and will be riding high on confidence against MI when the two teams square off in Sharjah on Tuesday. Since 2018, RR have managed five wins in just seven meetings against Mumbai Indians and will be backing themselves to make it six wins tonight.

RR vs MI, IPL 2021 today match prediction: Rajasthan Royals earned a thumping&nbsp;seven-wicket win over CSK in their last game, chasing down the target of 190 runs with as many as 15 balls to spare. Despite missing a number of stars, RR youngsters have ensured the Samson-led side has punched above their weight in UAE. They seem favourites against a struggling Mumbai Indians side and should come out on top on Tuesday.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will lock horns with Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a must-win encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Tuesday (October 05).

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will lock horns with Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a must-win encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Tuesday (October 05). Both teams are still in the hunt for a spot in the playoffs, however, Mumbai Indians are not guaranteed of qualification even if they win their remaining two matches. Mumbai Indians are currently placed seventh on the points table with 10 points from 12 matches and the worst net run rate among all four teams in the fray to seal the final fourth spot in the playoffs. MI will have to beat Rajasthan on Tuesday to ensure they remain alive in the competition as a defeat will confirm their exit. MI might not still make it even if they win their remaining two matches due to their inferior net run rate, however, Rohit & Co. will be hoping to finish on a high with two victories in a row and expect the other results to go in their favour. On the other hand, Rajasthan Royals have their fate in their own hands. They are currently placed sixth with ten points from 12 matches and have to win both their matches to qualify for the playoffs without needing a favour from any other team. They face their direct-rivals MI and KKR in their next two games. Also Read: IPL 2021 playoffs qualification scenario explained: Can Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings still qualify? Samson & Co. had pulled off a stunning seven-wicket win against MS Dhoni's CSK in their last game to keep their playoffs hopes alive and will be riding high on confidence against MI when the two teams square off in Sharjah on Tuesday. Since 2018, RR have managed five wins in just seven meetings against Mumbai Indians and will be backing themselves to make it six wins tonight. RR vs MI, IPL 2021 today match prediction: Rajasthan Royals earned a thumping seven-wicket win over CSK in their last game, chasing down the target of 190 runs with as many as 15 balls to spare. Despite missing a number of stars, RR youngsters have ensured the Samson-led side has punched above their weight in UAE. They seem favourites against a struggling Mumbai Indians side and should come out on top on Tuesday.

RR vs MI, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians match?

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