There will no opening ceremony for the twelfth edition of India Premier League following a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=pulwama">terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a> that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.&nbsp;

The chief of the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai said, "We'll not have a regular IPL opening ceremony."&nbsp;

He further added, "The amount of the budget for the opening ceremony will be given to families of the victims of this terror attack."&nbsp;

Usually, the opening ceremonies of India's cash-rich T20 league are heady mix glitz and glamour with performances by Bollywood stars being the highlight.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-premier-league-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-198297">Indian Premier League 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

However, the CoA <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/no-decision-yet-on-indias-world-cup-match-against-pakistan-coa-chief-vinod-rai-198953">took the call at a meeting</a> to scrap the ceremony in honour of martyred CRPF men.&nbsp;

Vinod Rai also mentioned that BCCI will draft a letter to game's global governing body asking them whether to ban Pakistan from participating in the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

The Rai-led CoA decided against taking any stand on the World Cup clash against Pakistan but said it would individually urge ICC members to "sever ties with any nation that is a terrorist hub".&nbsp;

The twelfth edition of India Premier League is set to start from March 23, 2019.&nbsp;

The defending champions Chennai will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team.&nbsp;

There will no opening ceremony for the twelfth edition of India Premier League following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

There will no opening ceremony for the twelfth edition of India Premier League following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. The chief of the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai said, "We'll not have a regular IPL opening ceremony." He further added, "The amount of the budget for the opening ceremony will be given to families of the victims of this terror attack." Usually, the opening ceremonies of India's cash-rich T20 league are heady mix glitz and glamour with performances by Bollywood stars being the highlight. Also Read: Indian Premier League 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue However, the CoA took the call at a meeting to scrap the ceremony in honour of martyred CRPF men. Vinod Rai also mentioned that BCCI will draft a letter to game's global governing body asking them whether to ban Pakistan from participating in the 2019 World Cup. The Rai-led CoA decided against taking any stand on the World Cup clash against Pakistan but said it would individually urge ICC members to "sever ties with any nation that is a terrorist hub". The twelfth edition of India Premier League is set to start from March 23, 2019. The defending champions Chennai will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team.

No IPL opening ceremony this year, money will go to Pulwama martyrs' families: CoA chief Vinod Rai

Former Australian&nbsp;cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked&nbsp;his favourites&nbsp;for ICC&nbsp;World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14.&nbsp;

Most of the spectators and analysts from the cricketing world&nbsp;have picked India, Australia, England as the title contenders. Now, Ponting has also&nbsp;shared his opinion on the same.&nbsp;

Ponting said that Australia should not get carried away after their recent away series win in India and&nbsp;added, "Australia are a very talented team and I expect them to reach the semis."&nbsp;

He reflected his view on India's chances, saying,&nbsp;"No need for India to panic after losing three ODI games in a row." But mentioned that India&nbsp;"have&nbsp;to sort their middle order batting" ahead of the tournament.&nbsp;

However, he backed England more considering their&nbsp;home conditions and their&nbsp;balanced squad. He said that the English team has got&nbsp;depth in the squad with&nbsp;in-form players.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ponting said that he is very excited for the upcoming cricketing&nbsp;months but&nbsp;believes that it is tough to foresee the winner of the cricket's extravaganza.&nbsp;

Watch the interview:&nbsp;

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Ahead of Indian Premier League 2019,&nbsp;Delhi Capitals head coach Ponting talked about his side's preparation and chances of winning the T20 league which will kick off from March 23.&nbsp;

The two-time World Cup winner Ponting said that Delhi Capitals&nbsp;is balanced&nbsp;team and has enough depth to excel.&nbsp;

He said, "I think we have got a very well-balanced squad."

"I&nbsp;think all squads end up looking good on paper. It is about how they&nbsp;play and how we prepare them, how we train them and&nbsp;how we ready them for the IPL with the difference between winning and not winning."&nbsp;

"I am excited with the squad and will look to play the first match," Ponting said. "Needs to have the flexibility to play different teams," he added.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, Delhi Capitals finished at the bottom of the points table in his first season in-charge but in the upcoming edition, they seek a change in fortunes as the franchise's new owners have changed their name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;

He said, "I am excited, it does feel like a really fresh start. The whole rebrand of Delhi Capitals is really exciting."&nbsp;

"We have got some exciting players to work with so I can not wait for the first game." He also added that the team has a balance of young and experienced players.&nbsp;

Delhi already has retained Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw at the time of auction and to boost the batting unit further, they traded batsman Shikhar Dhawan from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem.&nbsp;

DC also spend lavishly to pick South African player Colin Ingram which is a clear indication that the Delhi team has intended to strengthen their batting unit.

The bowling unit is a good balance of pace and spin. They already had retained&nbsp;Amit Mishra, Sandeep Lamichhane, Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult.&nbsp;Besides, they purchased Ishant Sharma to add more fuel to the bowling unit.&nbsp;

Ponting also shared his&nbsp;concerns about players' workload ahead of the World Cup.&nbsp;He said&nbsp;that we have built the&nbsp;team considering all the possible factors. Like no Australian in the squad as they won't be available&nbsp;for&nbsp;the first two weeks also will leave early.&nbsp;

"Our aim is to win the IPL, and if we can manage the players and the combinations well throughout the tournament, it will turn out to be a very successful season for the Capitals," he said during press conference.&nbsp;

"We can achieve some pretty special things this season," he added.&nbsp;

Delhi will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai In Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked his favourites for ICC World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14.

Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has picked his favourites for ICC World Cup title while speaking in an exclusive interview to WION. The much-awaited tournament is scheduled to take place from May 30 to July 14. Most of the spectators and analysts from the cricketing world have picked India, Australia, England as the title contenders. Now, Ponting has also shared his opinion on the same. Ponting said that Australia should not get carried away after their recent away series win in India and added, "Australia are a very talented team and I expect them to reach the semis." He reflected his view on India's chances, saying, "No need for India to panic after losing three ODI games in a row." But mentioned that India "have to sort their middle order batting" ahead of the tournament. However, he backed England more considering their home conditions and their balanced squad. He said that the English team has got depth in the squad with in-form players. Ponting said that he is very excited for the upcoming cricketing months but believes that it is tough to foresee the winner of the cricket's extravaganza. Watch the interview: × Ahead of Indian Premier League 2019, Delhi Capitals head coach Ponting talked about his side's preparation and chances of winning the T20 league which will kick off from March 23. The two-time World Cup winner Ponting said that Delhi Capitals is balanced team and has enough depth to excel. He said, "I think we have got a very well-balanced squad." "I think all squads end up looking good on paper. It is about how they play and how we prepare them, how we train them and how we ready them for the IPL with the difference between winning and not winning." "I am excited with the squad and will look to play the first match," Ponting said. "Needs to have the flexibility to play different teams," he added. Unfortunately, Delhi Capitals finished at the bottom of the points table in his first season in-charge but in the upcoming edition, they seek a change in fortunes as the franchise's new owners have changed their name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals. He said, "I am excited, it does feel like a really fresh start. The whole rebrand of Delhi Capitals is really exciting." "We have got some exciting players to work with so I can not wait for the first game." He also added that the team has a balance of young and experienced players. Delhi already has retained Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw at the time of auction and to boost the batting unit further, they traded batsman Shikhar Dhawan from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem. DC also spend lavishly to pick South African player Colin Ingram which is a clear indication that the Delhi team has intended to strengthen their batting unit. The bowling unit is a good balance of pace and spin. They already had retained Amit Mishra, Sandeep Lamichhane, Chris Morris, Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult. Besides, they purchased Ishant Sharma to add more fuel to the bowling unit. Ponting also shared his concerns about players' workload ahead of the World Cup. He said that we have built the team considering all the possible factors. Like no Australian in the squad as they won't be available for the first two weeks also will leave early. "Our aim is to win the IPL, and if we can manage the players and the combinations well throughout the tournament, it will turn out to be a very successful season for the Capitals," he said during press conference. "We can achieve some pretty special things this season," he added. Delhi will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai In Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

England the team to beat at World Cup, Ricky Ponting tells WION

The Indian Premier League has released a full schedule of the round robin league matches of the twelfth edition of the tournament starting from March 23 till May 5.&nbsp;

As usual, there will be a total of 56 matches that will be played during the six-week tourney.&nbsp;

The defending champions Chennai will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team.&nbsp;

Among the round robin matches, there are 12 afternoon starts (4 pm matches) on the weekends.&nbsp;

The IPL operations team has ensured that no team plays their home matches at the alternate venues as the general elections will be held in seven phases from April 12 to May 19.

Two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders will play all their IPL home matches at the Eden Gardens despite West Bengal going into polls during all seven phases of general elections.&nbsp;

Even Kings XI Punjab, who had played a few of their home matches in Indore during earlier editions, will play all their matches in Mohali.&nbsp;

<hr />
<hr />
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-185821">IPL 2019: All teams and their squad list</a>

<hr />
<hr />
Here is the schedule:&nbsp;

All timings in&nbsp;IST (Indian Standard Time)

Saturday 23rd March 
Match 1 | 8:00 pm | Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Sunday 24th March 
Match 2 | 4:00 pm | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Eden Gardens, Kolkata&nbsp;

Match 3 | 8:00 pm | Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Monday 25th March 
Match 4 | 8:00 pm | Rajasthan Royals vs Kings XI Punjab | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

Tuesday 26th March 
Match 5 | 8:00 pm | Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings | Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Delhi

Wednesday 27th March 
Match 6 | 8:00 pm | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Kings XI Punjab | Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Thursday 28th March 
Match 7 | 8:00 pm | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Mumbai Indians | M&nbsp;Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Friday 29th March 
Match 8 | 8:00 pm | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals | Rajiv Gandhi Intl Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

Saturday 30th March 
Match 9 | 4:00 pm | Kings XI Punjab vs Mumbai Indians | IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali

Match 10 | 8:00 pm | Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Delhi

Sunday 31st March 
Match 11 | 4:00 pm | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Rajiv Gandhi Intl&nbsp;Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

Match 12 | 8:00 pm | Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Monday 1st April 
Match 13 | 8:00 pm | Kings XI Punjab vs Delhi Capitals | IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali

Tuesday 2nd April 
Match 14 | 8:00 pm | Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

Wednesday 3rd April 
Match 15 | 8:00 pm | Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Thursday 4th April 
Match 16 | 8:00 pm | Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Delhi

Friday 5th April 
Match 17 | 8:00 pm | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders | M&nbsp;Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Saturday 6th April 
Match 18 | 4:00 pm | &nbsp;Chennai Super Kings vs Kings XI Punjab | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Match 19 | 8:00 pm | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Mumbai Indians | Rajiv Gandhi Intl&nbsp;Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

Sunday 7th April 
Match 20 | 4:00 pm | &nbsp;Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Delhi Capitals | M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Match 21 | 8:00 pm | Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

Monday, April 8 
Match 22 | 8:00 pm | Kings XI Punjab vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali

Tuesday, April 9&nbsp; 
Match 23 | 8:00 pm | Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders | MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Wednesday, April 10 
Match 24 | 8:00 pm | Mumbai Indians vs Kings XI Punjab | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Thursday, April 11 
Match 25 | 8:00 pm | Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

Friday, April 12 
Match 26 | 8:00 pm | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Delhi Capitals | Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Saturday, April 13 
Match 27 | 4:00 pm | Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Match 28 | 8:00 pm | Kings XI Punjab vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali

Sunday, April 14 
Match 29 | 4:00 pm | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings | Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Match 30 | 8:00 pm | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals | Rajiv Gandhi Intl&nbsp;Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

Monday, April 15&nbsp; 
Match 31 | 8:00 pm | Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Tuesday, April 16&nbsp; 
Match 32 | 8:00 pm | Kings XI Punjab vs Rajasthan Royals | IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali

Wednesday, April 17&nbsp; 
Match 33 | 8:00 pm | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings | Rajiv Gandhi Intl&nbsp;Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

Thursday, April 18&nbsp; 
Match 34 | 8:00 pm | Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians | Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Delhi

Friday, April 19&nbsp; 
Match 35 | 8:00 pm | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Saturday, April 20&nbsp; 
Match 36 | 4:00 pm | Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

Match 37 | 8:00 pm | Delhi Capitals vs Kings XI Punjab | Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Delhi

Sunday, April 21&nbsp; 
Match 38 | 4:00 pm | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Rajiv Gandhi Intl&nbsp;Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

Match 39 | 8:00 pm | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Chennai Super Kings | M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Monday, 22nd April&nbsp; 
Match 40 | 8:00 pm | Rajasthan Royals vs Delhi Capitals | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

Tuesday, April 23&nbsp; 
Match 41 | 8:00 pm | Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Wednesday, April 24&nbsp; 
Match 42 | 8:00 pm | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kings XI Punjab | M&nbsp;Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Thursday, April 25&nbsp; 
Match 43 | 8:00 pm | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals | Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Friday, April 26&nbsp; 
Match 44 | 8:00 pm | Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians | MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Saturday, April 27&nbsp; 
Match 45 | 4:00 pm | Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

Sunday, April 28&nbsp; 
Match 46 | 4:00 pm | Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore | Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Delhi

Match 47 | 8:00 pm | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians | Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Monday, April 29&nbsp; 
Match 48 | 8:00 pm | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kings XI Punjab | Rajiv Gandhi Intl&nbsp;Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad

Tuesday, April 30&nbsp; 
Match 49 | 8:00 pm | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Rajasthan Royals | M&nbsp;Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Wednesday, May 1&nbsp; 
Match 50 | 8:00 pm | Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals | MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Thursday, May 2&nbsp; 
Match 51 | 8:00 pm | Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Friday, May 3&nbsp; 
Match 52 | 8:00 pm | Kings XI Punjab vs Kolkata Knight Riders | IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali

Saturday, May 4&nbsp; 
Match 53 | 4:00 pm | Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals | Feroz Shah Kotla Ground, Delhi

Match 54 | 8:00 pm | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | M&nbsp;Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Sunday, May 5&nbsp; 
Match 55 | 4:00 pm | Kings XI Punjab vs Chennai Super Kings | IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali

Match 56 | 8:00 pm | Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League has released a full schedule of the round robin league matches of the twelfth edition of the tournament starting from March 23 till May 5.

Indian Premier League 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue

Rohit Sharma, skipper of&nbsp;Indian Premier League side Mumbai Indians said that he will be&nbsp;opening the batting for his team in the upcoming edition of IPL.&nbsp;

In a press conference, Rohit said, "I have in the past batted in the middle order and I have opened also in few games but yeah, I mean whatever the team requires, wherever the team requires me to bat, I have to bat in that position to make sure that we get the right balance, right composition of the team as well."&nbsp;

In 2018, Sharma had batted in the middle order and it didn't go well for him or the team and he finished his season with just 286 runs.&nbsp;

However, the skipper of&nbsp;the three-time champions&nbsp;said, "This year, I will open the batting for all the games, that is for sure."&nbsp;

For Indian cricket team, Sharma has been a consistent opening batsman.&nbsp;

He also spoke about players' workload as overseas players a likely to return to join their national teams for World Cup preparations.&nbsp;

"I think, with the limitations of overseas players this time around, World Cup being and some of the players returning to their country, the onus will be on those Indian players to step up and take the team through."

"It's not just for MI (Mumbai Indians) but for the other teams also," he added.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL endeavour against Delhi Capitals on March 24. IPL begins on March 23.

Rohit Sharma, skipper of Indian Premier League side Mumbai Indians said that he will be opening the batting for his team in the upcoming edition of IPL. In a press conference, Rohit said, "I have in the past batted in the middle order and I have opened also in few games but yeah, I mean whatever the team requires, wherever the team requires me to bat, I have to bat in that position to make sure that we get the right balance, right composition of the team as well.

Rohit Sharma, skipper of Indian Premier League side Mumbai Indians said that he will be opening the batting for his team in the upcoming edition of IPL. In a press conference, Rohit said, "I have in the past batted in the middle order and I have opened also in few games but yeah, I mean whatever the team requires, wherever the team requires me to bat, I have to bat in that position to make sure that we get the right balance, right composition of the team as well." In 2018, Sharma had batted in the middle order and it didn't go well for him or the team and he finished his season with just 286 runs. However, the skipper of the three-time champions said, "This year, I will open the batting for all the games, that is for sure." For Indian cricket team, Sharma has been a consistent opening batsman. He also spoke about players' workload as overseas players a likely to return to join their national teams for World Cup preparations. "I think, with the limitations of overseas players this time around, World Cup being and some of the players returning to their country, the onus will be on those Indian players to step up and take the team through." "It's not just for MI (Mumbai Indians) but for the other teams also," he added. Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL endeavour against Delhi Capitals on March 24. IPL begins on March 23.

IPL 2019: Rohit Sharma to open for Mumbai Indians

Virat Kohli is not a "shrewd captain" who could be compared to his national team deputy Rohit Sharma or former skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who have won three IPL titles each, feels former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir.

The former India opener, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL trophies in 2012 and 2014, feels that in result oriented franchise environment, Kohli has been "lucky" to have survived despite Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) never winning the coveted title in his eight years as skipper.&nbsp;

"I don't see him as a shrewd captain. I don't see him as a tactful captain (tactician). And he hasn't won the IPL. So ultimately, a captain is only as good as his record," Gambhir told on a TV show.

Gambhir's comments is specific to Kohli's success as a leader in IPL since he is the first captain who has led India to a Test series win on Australian soil.

"There are people who have won the trophy three times. MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. So I think he has a long way to go. You cannot compare him to someone like Rohit or Dhoni at this stage," Gambhir said.&nbsp;

"He has been a part of RCB, and captaining RCB for the last seven to eight years, and he has been very lucky and should be thanking the franchise that they stuck with him. Because not many captains have got such a long rope where they haven't won a tournament," said Gambhir, who had to part ways with KKR in 2018 after seven long years and two titles.

Gambhir's last IPL season was with Delhi Daredevils where he stepped down from captaincy midway after his run in the tournament went from bad to worse.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is not a "shrewd captain" who could be compared to his national team deputy Rohit Sharma or former skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who have won three IPL titles each, feels former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir.

Virat Kohli is not a "shrewd captain" who could be compared to his national team deputy Rohit Sharma or former skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who have won three IPL titles each, feels former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir. The former India opener, who led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL trophies in 2012 and 2014, feels that in result oriented franchise environment, Kohli has been "lucky" to have survived despite Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) never winning the coveted title in his eight years as skipper. "I don't see him as a shrewd captain. I don't see him as a tactful captain (tactician). And he hasn't won the IPL. So ultimately, a captain is only as good as his record," Gambhir told on a TV show. Gambhir's comments is specific to Kohli's success as a leader in IPL since he is the first captain who has led India to a Test series win on Australian soil. "There are people who have won the trophy three times. MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. So I think he has a long way to go. You cannot compare him to someone like Rohit or Dhoni at this stage," Gambhir said. "He has been a part of RCB, and captaining RCB for the last seven to eight years, and he has been very lucky and should be thanking the franchise that they stuck with him. Because not many captains have got such a long rope where they haven't won a tournament," said Gambhir, who had to part ways with KKR in 2018 after seven long years and two titles. Gambhir's last IPL season was with Delhi Daredevils where he stepped down from captaincy midway after his run in the tournament went from bad to worse.

Virat Kohli not 'shrewd' RCB skipper as he never won IPL title: Gautam Gambhir

Shikhar Dhawan said that Indian batsmen need to step up in the upcoming edition of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2019-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-185821#chennai-super-kings-185803">Indian Premier League</a> for Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;

Dhawan, who was traded from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem, also feels that the current squad of Delhi team is very balanced.&nbsp;

"In IPL, the team who wins the trophy is always the one who has the best balance in the squad," said Dhawan.&nbsp;

"Our team this year is also very balanced as we have good all-rounders, spinners and batsmen."

"The most important thing for us will be that our Indian batsmen play well and our top 4-5 batsmen are Indian, so I am expecting a great season ahead," Dhawan added.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-squad-analysis-of-delhi-capitals-201142">IPL 2019: Squad analysis of Delhi Capitals</a>

DC has never won the IPL title but this time, they seek a change in fortunes for the 2019 edition as the franchise's new owners have changed their name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;

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😱👏🤯😍<a href="https://twitter.com/ImIshant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImIshant</a> - kamaal karte ho bhai! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThisIsNewDelhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThisIsNewDelhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiCapitals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://t.co/wJFOPDhnfa">pic.twitter.com/wJFOPDhnfa</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1107264067511730177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Middle of the bat! Behtareen...😍 
 
Iss season humaare skipper kitne 5⃣0⃣ maarenge? 😁<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThisIsNewDelhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThisIsNewDelhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiCapitals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://t.co/9QAtyoNkY4">pic.twitter.com/9QAtyoNkY4</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1107295153067188224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It is like a second homecoming for me, and I am very excited to be a part of the Delhi Capitals for the IPL season. It is a very happy feeling for me to have come back to my home city of Delhi after spending 10 seasons away in the IPL," said Dhawan.&nbsp;

He continued, "Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium has been my home ground since my early days, and I will be doing my best to perform for the team as I know the conditions and pitches well.&nbsp;

"Apart from that, I will also be looking to help our younger players get used to the pressure of playing in such a big tournament, and hopefully I can spur them on to perform on the field to the best of their abilities."&nbsp;

For Sunday's practice T20 match, the squad was divided into two teams, one led by Rishabh Pant, who joined them over the weekend, and the other by Shreyas Iyer.&nbsp;

IPL, which is one of the world's most-watched sporting events, will kick-off from March 23.&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan said that Indian batsmen need to step up in the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League for Delhi Capitals. Dhawan, who was traded from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem, also feels that the current squad of Delhi team is very balanced.

Shikhar Dhawan said that Indian batsmen need to step up in the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League for Delhi Capitals. Dhawan, who was traded from Hyderabad for Abhishek Sharma, Vijay Shankar and Shahbaz Nadeem, also feels that the current squad of Delhi team is very balanced. "In IPL, the team who wins the trophy is always the one who has the best balance in the squad," said Dhawan. "Our team this year is also very balanced as we have good all-rounders, spinners and batsmen." "The most important thing for us will be that our Indian batsmen play well and our top 4-5 batsmen are Indian, so I am expecting a great season ahead," Dhawan added. Also Read: IPL 2019: Squad analysis of Delhi Capitals DC has never won the IPL title but this time, they seek a change in fortunes for the 2019 edition as the franchise's new owners have changed their name from Delhi Daredevils to Delhi Capitals. 😱👏🤯😍@ImIshant - kamaal karte ho bhai! #ThisIsNewDelhi #DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/wJFOPDhnfa — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 17, 2019 × Middle of the bat! Behtareen...😍 Iss season humaare skipper kitne 5⃣0⃣ maarenge? 😁#ThisIsNewDelhi #DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/9QAtyoNkY4 — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 17, 2019 × "It is like a second homecoming for me, and I am very excited to be a part of the Delhi Capitals for the IPL season. It is a very happy feeling for me to have come back to my home city of Delhi after spending 10 seasons away in the IPL," said Dhawan. He continued, "Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium has been my home ground since my early days, and I will be doing my best to perform for the team as I know the conditions and pitches well. "Apart from that, I will also be looking to help our younger players get used to the pressure of playing in such a big tournament, and hopefully I can spur them on to perform on the field to the best of their abilities." For Sunday's practice T20 match, the squad was divided into two teams, one led by Rishabh Pant, who joined them over the weekend, and the other by Shreyas Iyer. IPL, which is one of the world's most-watched sporting events, will kick-off from March 23.

Indian batsmen need to step up for Delhi Capitals to win IPL: Shikhar Dhawan

The Supreme Court set aside the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) disciplinary committee's order <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/supreme-court-asks-bcci-to-reconsider-life-ban-on-s-sreesanth-consider-his-plea-within-3-months-203437">imposing a life ban</a> on former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth for his alleged involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal.&nbsp;

In reaction to the Supreme Court's decision,&nbsp;Sreesanth said, "BCCI has made who I am today. I am not against BCCI, I am just appealing to give me an opportunity."&nbsp;

"Thankful to judges, they were kind enough to hear through the matter for giving me fair opportunity."&nbsp;

A bench comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and KM Joseph said the disciplinary committee of the BCCI&nbsp;may reconsider within three months the quantum of punishment to be given to Sreesanth.&nbsp;

The bench made it clear that the former cricketer will get the opportunity of being heard by the committee on the quantum of the punishment.

"The life ban has been lifted and that's a big thing," Sreesanth said after the ruling.

"The court has given me a huge lifeline and I am happy with the opportunity given to me," said the bowler who was 13 short of 100 Test wickets when he was banned.

"There are so many leagues happening all around the country and cricket is my bread and butter. To take care of my family I need cricket back."

"The Supreme Court has given me a lifeline and it has helped me restore my dignity," said the banned cricketer.&nbsp;

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The apex court also said that its verdict shall have no effect on the criminal proceedings pending against the former cricketer in the Delhi High Court, where the Delhi Police has challenged a trial court's order discharging all accused, including Sreesanth, in the IPL spot-fixing case.&nbsp;

The bench passed this order on Sreesanth's plea challenging the decision of a division bench of the Kerala High Court which had restored the life ban imposed on him by the BCCI.&nbsp;

"I have started to practice and hopefully I will be able to start playing cricket soon enough. I request the BCCI not to take all 90 days to take a decision on the punishment for me," Sreesanth said.&nbsp;

"I have waited long enough, six years. I want to start by playing club cricket and I am hoping to play in the Scottish league, which starts in April," he added.&nbsp;

The BCCI said Friday it respected the court's order and would take up Sreesanth's case in their next meeting.

The 11th edition of the IPL will start on March 23 with a game between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court set aside the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) disciplinary committee's order imposing a life ban on former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth for his alleged involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal.

The Supreme Court set aside the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) disciplinary committee's order imposing a life ban on former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth for his alleged involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal. In reaction to the Supreme Court's decision, Sreesanth said, "BCCI has made who I am today. I am not against BCCI, I am just appealing to give me an opportunity." "Thankful to judges, they were kind enough to hear through the matter for giving me fair opportunity." A bench comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and KM Joseph said the disciplinary committee of the BCCI may reconsider within three months the quantum of punishment to be given to Sreesanth. The bench made it clear that the former cricketer will get the opportunity of being heard by the committee on the quantum of the punishment. "The life ban has been lifted and that's a big thing," Sreesanth said after the ruling. "The court has given me a huge lifeline and I am happy with the opportunity given to me," said the bowler who was 13 short of 100 Test wickets when he was banned. "There are so many leagues happening all around the country and cricket is my bread and butter. To take care of my family I need cricket back." "The Supreme Court has given me a lifeline and it has helped me restore my dignity," said the banned cricketer. Spot fixing case: Supreme Court asked the BCCI to reconsider its order of life ban on S Sreesanth (file pic) pic.twitter.com/fgF3iAUDx7 — ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2019 × The apex court also said that its verdict shall have no effect on the criminal proceedings pending against the former cricketer in the Delhi High Court, where the Delhi Police has challenged a trial court's order discharging all accused, including Sreesanth, in the IPL spot-fixing case. The bench passed this order on Sreesanth's plea challenging the decision of a division bench of the Kerala High Court which had restored the life ban imposed on him by the BCCI. "I have started to practice and hopefully I will be able to start playing cricket soon enough. I request the BCCI not to take all 90 days to take a decision on the punishment for me," Sreesanth said. "I have waited long enough, six years. I want to start by playing club cricket and I am hoping to play in the Scottish league, which starts in April," he added. The BCCI said Friday it respected the court's order and would take up Sreesanth's case in their next meeting. The 11th edition of the IPL will start on March 23 with a game between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

I am not against BCCI, just appealing to give me an opportunity: S Sreesanth

The Indian players will have to smartly manage their workload during the upcoming IPL since it will be their responsibility to stay fit and fresh for the ICC World Cup, says skipper Virat Kohli.

The upcoming edition of the popular Indian Premier League (IPL) will begin on March 23 and culminate days before the World Cup, starting on May 30.

Many cricket boards have been cautious in releasing their players for their respective IPL franchises, putting national duty above league commitments.

Kohli said it's not that he is asking the Indian players not to be committed to their IPL teams but to be smart and aware during the course of the tournament.

"All the workload will be monitored and given a window, the guys can afford to rest. The World Cup comes every four years and we play IPL every year," said Kohli after India lost the decisive fifth ODI by 35 runs on Wednesday to concede the series 2-3 to Australia.

"Not to say we won't be committed to the IPL but we've got to be smart. We have to work in balance and take smart decisions.

"The responsibility and the onus is on the player. No one will be forced to do something. Eventually no one wants to miss the World Cup and cost the team good balance," added Kohli.

On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-india-by-35-runs-in-fifth-odi-win-series-3-2-203158">India lost its first ODI series since 2015 and will go into the World Cup after losing three straight matches</a> but Kohli said it was not something that is bothering the team management.

"None of the guys in the change room are panicking. The support staff is not feeling down after this defeat because we knew things we wanted to do in these last three games," Kohli said.

"To be honest, it doesn't feel like something off has happened because we have been playing such good cricket. The other team has really been more passionate and more energetic than us in the pressure moments. They've grabbed the crucial moments in the game better than us. They deserve to win."

Kohli asserted that India is pretty sure about its playing XI, going into the showpiece ICC event.

"As a side, combination wise, we are pretty sorted. Maximum one change, you'll get to see in the World Cup. As a side, we're balanced," he said.

"Hardik Pandya will come back to the team. With him, there's batting depth, and bowling option opens up. We know where we have to go as a combination. The XI is clear in our head. We just have to take better decisions in pressure situations to go far in the World Cup."

Asked if too much experimentation cost India the series after taking 2-0 lead, Kohli replied in the negative.&nbsp;

"Whoever gets a chance to play, we expect that guy to take responsibility and pressure. And hence you expose these guys to pressure situations where a series is on the line and you expect someone to step up. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't," the India skipper said.

"But unless you try, you wouldn't know. So, that's exactly what we wanted to do in these games. From that point of view, you can analyse. I cannot breakdown who we expect to take the pressure in the World Cup. Unless the squad is announced, I cannot reveal.

"Being on the road for so many months does take a toll on you as a team. I'm not saying that's an excuse because you're expected to do that and be motivated to win every game you're playing for the country," he said.

Kohli said he was proud of India's achievements in the "hectic" season and would like his players to enjoy the IPL now.

"From that point of view, I think all of us just deserve to go to the IPL and just enjoy these two months," he said.&nbsp;

The Indian players will have to smartly manage their workload during the upcoming IPL since it will be their responsibility to stay fit and fresh for the ICC World Cup, says skipper Virat Kohli.

The Indian players will have to smartly manage their workload during the upcoming IPL since it will be their responsibility to stay fit and fresh for the ICC World Cup, says skipper Virat Kohli. The upcoming edition of the popular Indian Premier League (IPL) will begin on March 23 and culminate days before the World Cup, starting on May 30. Many cricket boards have been cautious in releasing their players for their respective IPL franchises, putting national duty above league commitments. Kohli said it's not that he is asking the Indian players not to be committed to their IPL teams but to be smart and aware during the course of the tournament. "All the workload will be monitored and given a window, the guys can afford to rest. The World Cup comes every four years and we play IPL every year," said Kohli after India lost the decisive fifth ODI by 35 runs on Wednesday to concede the series 2-3 to Australia. "Not to say we won't be committed to the IPL but we've got to be smart. We have to work in balance and take smart decisions. "The responsibility and the onus is on the player. No one will be forced to do something. Eventually no one wants to miss the World Cup and cost the team good balance," added Kohli. On Wednesday, India lost its first ODI series since 2015 and will go into the World Cup after losing three straight matches but Kohli said it was not something that is bothering the team management. "None of the guys in the change room are panicking. The support staff is not feeling down after this defeat because we knew things we wanted to do in these last three games," Kohli said. "To be honest, it doesn't feel like something off has happened because we have been playing such good cricket. The other team has really been more passionate and more energetic than us in the pressure moments. They've grabbed the crucial moments in the game better than us. They deserve to win." Kohli asserted that India is pretty sure about its playing XI, going into the showpiece ICC event. "As a side, combination wise, we are pretty sorted. Maximum one change, you'll get to see in the World Cup. As a side, we're balanced," he said. "Hardik Pandya will come back to the team. With him, there's batting depth, and bowling option opens up. We know where we have to go as a combination. The XI is clear in our head. We just have to take better decisions in pressure situations to go far in the World Cup." Asked if too much experimentation cost India the series after taking 2-0 lead, Kohli replied in the negative. "Whoever gets a chance to play, we expect that guy to take responsibility and pressure. And hence you expose these guys to pressure situations where a series is on the line and you expect someone to step up. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't," the India skipper said. "But unless you try, you wouldn't know. So, that's exactly what we wanted to do in these games. From that point of view, you can analyse. I cannot breakdown who we expect to take the pressure in the World Cup. Unless the squad is announced, I cannot reveal. "Being on the road for so many months does take a toll on you as a team. I'm not saying that's an excuse because you're expected to do that and be motivated to win every game you're playing for the country," he said. Kohli said he was proud of India's achievements in the "hectic" season and would like his players to enjoy the IPL now. "From that point of view, I think all of us just deserve to go to the IPL and just enjoy these two months," he said.

'It doesn't feel like something off has happened,' says Kohli after India lose ODI series to Australia

Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Simon Katich is confident that their captain Dinesh Karthik will once again excel in his designated finisher's role, making a case for his selection in India's World Cup squad.

Karthik, who didn't play the one-dayers against Australia, is back in the mix after Rishabh Pant's failure to grab the chance.

Asked about his batting position, Katich dropped a hint that the KKR skipper would use the Indian Premier League to showcase his skill set in pressure games.

"I think what Dinesh brings in his experience (in crunch situations). He has played that role very well for India and for us. You know what you will get from him down the innings. He is hard to bowl to," Katich told reporters on Thursday.

"So he will be in the mix for the World Cup. It will give the Indian selectors a tough job to pick with so much talent around," he added.

He was all praise for young Shubman Gill, who, he though, will play across formats for India.

"I am sure pretty soon he will be permanently in the Indian setup. He obviously has got talent and had a fantastic IPL last year."

The former Australia left-handed batsman was happy that the team had a great limited-overs series in India.

"Losing to India in Australia was tough for Australians to take. Full credit for the way they played. They deserved to win," said Katich.

He was all praise for the top order.

"The top order was outstanding especially Khawaja, Ashton Turner was great too. Ahead of World Cup, important decisions are there for the selectors to take. Having Smith and Warner back before World Cup gives us more confidence."

The Australian team is peaking at the right time, felt Katich.

"Their form hasn't been brilliant in the last few months but World Cup cricket is all about playing six weeks brilliantly," said Katich, who was an integral part of both Tests and ODI side during his playing days.

"It doesn't matter what happened previously. It's all about performing under pressure situations in knockout style. Smith and Warner will be hungry.

"They are hurt by the experience. What happened has happened. They will come back hungry and if they come back firing and rest of the boys are in form, then it will be good," he concluded.

Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Simon Katich is confident that their captain Dinesh Karthik will once again excel in his designated finisher's role, making a case for his selection in India's World Cup squad.

Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Simon Katich is confident that their captain Dinesh Karthik will once again excel in his designated finisher's role, making a case for his selection in India's World Cup squad. Karthik, who didn't play the one-dayers against Australia, is back in the mix after Rishabh Pant's failure to grab the chance. Asked about his batting position, Katich dropped a hint that the KKR skipper would use the Indian Premier League to showcase his skill set in pressure games. "I think what Dinesh brings in his experience (in crunch situations). He has played that role very well for India and for us. You know what you will get from him down the innings. He is hard to bowl to," Katich told reporters on Thursday. "So he will be in the mix for the World Cup. It will give the Indian selectors a tough job to pick with so much talent around," he added. He was all praise for young Shubman Gill, who, he though, will play across formats for India. "I am sure pretty soon he will be permanently in the Indian setup. He obviously has got talent and had a fantastic IPL last year." The former Australia left-handed batsman was happy that the team had a great limited-overs series in India. "Losing to India in Australia was tough for Australians to take. Full credit for the way they played. They deserved to win," said Katich. He was all praise for the top order. "The top order was outstanding especially Khawaja, Ashton Turner was great too. Ahead of World Cup, important decisions are there for the selectors to take. Having Smith and Warner back before World Cup gives us more confidence." The Australian team is peaking at the right time, felt Katich. "Their form hasn't been brilliant in the last few months but World Cup cricket is all about playing six weeks brilliantly," said Katich, who was an integral part of both Tests and ODI side during his playing days. "It doesn't matter what happened previously. It's all about performing under pressure situations in knockout style. Smith and Warner will be hungry. "They are hurt by the experience. What happened has happened. They will come back hungry and if they come back firing and rest of the boys are in form, then it will be good," he concluded.

Dinesh Karthik will play finisher's role as he is in WC mix: Assistant coach Katich

Injured Kane Williamson could sit out the third Test against Bangladesh beginning Saturday in Christchurch and might have to delay his departure for the Indian Premier League (IPL), New Zealand said Tuesday.&nbsp;

Captain Williamson suffered a shoulder injury while fielding in Bangladesh's first innings of the second Test in Wellington, which New Zealand won on Tuesday by an innings and 12 runs.&nbsp;

Coach Gary Stead said scans had detected a tear to Williamson's left pectoral minor muscle in his shoulder.&nbsp;

"There's obviously irritation and a wee bit of bleeding, it's not a major injury," Stead said.&nbsp;

"We're hopeful that he will recover quickly, and the thing for us is to make sure he doesn't aggravate it any more. He will come to Christchurch and we will make an assessment there on whether he plays."&nbsp;

With the series already won, Stead said New Zealand would take a "safety first" approach, particularly with this year's World Cup on the horizon.

"No player wants to give up their spot in the Test team. But I think it's safe to say that we will probably err on the conservative side, and if there's any chance of risk then we're likely to pull him from that game."&nbsp;

Williamson had suffered considerable discomfort while batting, although he managed to score 74.&nbsp;

He did not take the field for Bangladesh's second innings with Tim Southee taking over the captaincy.

Williamson is due to fly to India after the Bangladesh series to join up with the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the money-spinning Twenty20 IPL.

"If things progress as we hope, then still going to the IPL shouldn't be a problem to him," said Stead.&nbsp;

"But he's also aware that if he's not quite 100 per cent, then we will potentially hold him back as well and make sure that he is right before he goes on that plane."

Victory early on the fifth day after the first two days were lost to rain gave New Zealand an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the series and ensured they would end the season with an International Cricket Council cheque for $500,000 as the second-ranked Test side behind India.

Injured Kane Williamson could sit out the third Test against Bangladesh beginning Saturday in Christchurch and might have to delay his departure for the Indian Premier League (IPL), New Zealand said Tuesday.

Injured Kane Williamson could sit out the third Test against Bangladesh beginning Saturday in Christchurch and might have to delay his departure for the Indian Premier League (IPL), New Zealand said Tuesday. Captain Williamson suffered a shoulder injury while fielding in Bangladesh's first innings of the second Test in Wellington, which New Zealand won on Tuesday by an innings and 12 runs. Coach Gary Stead said scans had detected a tear to Williamson's left pectoral minor muscle in his shoulder. "There's obviously irritation and a wee bit of bleeding, it's not a major injury," Stead said. "We're hopeful that he will recover quickly, and the thing for us is to make sure he doesn't aggravate it any more. He will come to Christchurch and we will make an assessment there on whether he plays." With the series already won, Stead said New Zealand would take a "safety first" approach, particularly with this year's World Cup on the horizon. "No player wants to give up their spot in the Test team. But I think it's safe to say that we will probably err on the conservative side, and if there's any chance of risk then we're likely to pull him from that game." Williamson had suffered considerable discomfort while batting, although he managed to score 74. He did not take the field for Bangladesh's second innings with Tim Southee taking over the captaincy. Williamson is due to fly to India after the Bangladesh series to join up with the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the money-spinning Twenty20 IPL. "If things progress as we hope, then still going to the IPL shouldn't be a problem to him," said Stead. "But he's also aware that if he's not quite 100 per cent, then we will potentially hold him back as well and make sure that he is right before he goes on that plane." Victory early on the fifth day after the first two days were lost to rain gave New Zealand an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the series and ensured they would end the season with an International Cricket Council cheque for $500,000 as the second-ranked Test side behind India.

Injured Kane Williamson in doubt for third Test, may delay IPL departure

"The biggest crime that I can commit is not a murder, it is actually match-fixing," <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a> has said in a soon-to-be-released documentary that focuses on Chennai Super Kings' fairy tale IPL comeback last year, following a two-year suspension for spot-fixing.

Dhoni led the Chennai franchise to its third IPL title in 2018, making it a dream return to the competition after the team served out a two-year ban for its management's role in the 2013 spot-fixing scandal.&nbsp;

"The team was involved, I was accused too. It was a tough phase for all of us. Fans felt that the punishment was harsh. Coming back was an emotional moment and I have always said, what doesn't kill you makes you strong," says Dhoni in the 45-second trailer of documentary 'Roar of the Lion' which will be streamed on Hotstar from March 20.

Dhoni had not commented on the turmoil before this.&nbsp;

In July 2015, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended from the cash-rich cricket league for two years for betting activities of their key officials Gurunath Meiyappan and Raj Kundra during the 2013 season. Both the officials were banned for life from being involved in any cricket matches conducted by the BCCI.

The punishment was handed down by a Supreme Court- appointed three-member committee headed by former CJI R M Lodha, which held that the betting activities of the two officials, Meiyappan and Kundra, then a co-owner of Rajasthan Royals, brought the game of cricket, BCCI and IPL into disrepute.

The 2019 edition of the IPL begins March 23 with Chennai Super Kings hosting Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.&nbsp;

"The biggest crime that I can commit is not a murder, it is actually match-fixing," Mahendra Singh Dhoni has said in a soon-to-be-released documentary that focuses on Chennai Super Kings' fairy tale IPL comeback last year, following a two-year suspension for spot-fixing.

"The biggest crime that I can commit is not a murder, it is actually match-fixing," Mahendra Singh Dhoni has said in a soon-to-be-released documentary that focuses on Chennai Super Kings' fairy tale IPL comeback last year, following a two-year suspension for spot-fixing. Dhoni led the Chennai franchise to its third IPL title in 2018, making it a dream return to the competition after the team served out a two-year ban for its management's role in the 2013 spot-fixing scandal. "The team was involved, I was accused too. It was a tough phase for all of us. Fans felt that the punishment was harsh. Coming back was an emotional moment and I have always said, what doesn't kill you makes you strong," says Dhoni in the 45-second trailer of documentary 'Roar of the Lion' which will be streamed on Hotstar from March 20. Dhoni had not commented on the turmoil before this. In July 2015, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended from the cash-rich cricket league for two years for betting activities of their key officials Gurunath Meiyappan and Raj Kundra during the 2013 season. Both the officials were banned for life from being involved in any cricket matches conducted by the BCCI. The punishment was handed down by a Supreme Court- appointed three-member committee headed by former CJI R M Lodha, which held that the betting activities of the two officials, Meiyappan and Kundra, then a co-owner of Rajasthan Royals, brought the game of cricket, BCCI and IPL into disrepute. The 2019 edition of the IPL begins March 23 with Chennai Super Kings hosting Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

Match-fixing bigger crime than murder, says Dhoni in soon-to-be released documentary

The&nbsp;International Cricket Council has insisted that it will not interfere in the conduct of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-premier-league-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-198297">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL).&nbsp;

The global cricket governing body further added that it&nbsp;plans to use the Indian domestic league as a benchmark to draft regulations for leagues across the world.&nbsp;

ICC's&nbsp;Chief Executive David Richardson said in a statement,&nbsp;"Reports in the Indian media that the ICC is somehow seeking to interfere in or dictate to the IPL are wide off the mark. That is not the case."&nbsp;

Earlier a newspaper report had claimed that&nbsp;ICC wants to have a say in IPL policy matters in an attempt to gain control over the league.&nbsp;

"As the Chief Executives' Committee and the ICC Board were advised over the past few days, the development of the Regulations has been led by the Working Group, on behalf of its Members, to ensure the long-term health and reputation of the sport internationally and domestically," the statement also read.&nbsp;

"We are fortunate to have some outstanding T20 leagues, including the IPL, which set the gold standard for operations globally and this Working Group has taken into account those standards when developing the draft set of regulations. Our primary objective is to ensure other leagues around the world put in place the same minimum criteria and operate within a consistent framework," Richardson said.

"The Working Group will continue developing the regulations over the coming months," he added.&nbsp;

Richardson praised the successful model of India Premier League.&nbsp;

The ICC, in a recent survey, found out that 95&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of its professional players play only one T20 league and the regulations, according to sources, would only apply on&nbsp;the remaining&nbsp;five&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;who ply their trade in various leagues.&nbsp;

It comprises mainly the West Indies players, who have picked T20 leagues over playing for the Caribbean team.&nbsp;

There is a possibility that there could be a cap of two to three leagues per player but it has not been finalised yet.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council has insisted that it will not interfere in the conduct of Indian Premier League (IPL). The global cricket governing body further added that it plans to use the Indian domestic league as a benchmark to draft regulations for leagues across the world.

The International Cricket Council has insisted that it will not interfere in the conduct of Indian Premier League (IPL). The global cricket governing body further added that it plans to use the Indian domestic league as a benchmark to draft regulations for leagues across the world. ICC's Chief Executive David Richardson said in a statement, "Reports in the Indian media that the ICC is somehow seeking to interfere in or dictate to the IPL are wide off the mark. That is not the case." Earlier a newspaper report had claimed that ICC wants to have a say in IPL policy matters in an attempt to gain control over the league. "As the Chief Executives' Committee and the ICC Board were advised over the past few days, the development of the Regulations has been led by the Working Group, on behalf of its Members, to ensure the long-term health and reputation of the sport internationally and domestically," the statement also read. "We are fortunate to have some outstanding T20 leagues, including the IPL, which set the gold standard for operations globally and this Working Group has taken into account those standards when developing the draft set of regulations. Our primary objective is to ensure other leagues around the world put in place the same minimum criteria and operate within a consistent framework," Richardson said. "The Working Group will continue developing the regulations over the coming months," he added. Richardson praised the successful model of India Premier League. The ICC, in a recent survey, found out that 95 per cent of its professional players play only one T20 league and the regulations, according to sources, would only apply on the remaining five per cent who ply their trade in various leagues. It comprises mainly the West Indies players, who have picked T20 leagues over playing for the Caribbean team. There is a possibility that there could be a cap of two to three leagues per player but it has not been finalised yet.

We won't interfere in Indian Premier League: ICC

A few days earlier, India's wicket-keeper batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rishabh-pant-teases-captain-cool-ahead-of-ipl-2019-dont-miss-dhonis-reaction-199220">Rishabh Pant</a>, who plays for Delhi Capitals in IPL, had teased former Indian captain MS Dhoni is a promotional video that went viral.&nbsp;

Pant had warned&nbsp;that the popular "Captain Cool", will lose his coolness in the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the skipper of Chennai Super Kings, has reacted to the video and gave a fitting reply to Pant.&nbsp;

Dhoni said, "Jab mai maidan me utra tha, toh aise hi sochta tha. Ajaa Rishabh, wicket k peeche toh mai hi rahoonga."&nbsp;

He ended the video by saying, "Game dikha, name bana."&nbsp;

The English translation goes as, "When I was young, I had a similar attitude. Common Rishabh, I will wait for you from behind the stumps."

"Show your game and earn a name for himself, " Dhoni added.&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
How's that for a response from Captain Cool? 😎😎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/BAMYwNLA7v">pic.twitter.com/BAMYwNLA7v</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1101014186203574272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Pant tweeted, "Mahi Bhai, Sab aap se seekha hai, toh aap ke saamne game toh dikhana banta hai! #VIVOIPL mein milengey - Kya kehte ho."&nbsp;

In the viral video, he can be heard saying, "Mahi bhai na guru ke samaan hain. Agar Mahi bhai nahi hote na, pata nahi mai wicketkeeper-batsman hota, nahi hota."

"Lekin is baari unki team pe main aisa barsoonga ki captain cool, cool nahi rahenge. Mahi bhai tayyar rehna, game dikhane aa raha hoon," Pant added.&nbsp;

Ahead of the twelfth edition of Indian Premier League, all the franchises and players are busy in promoting their teams.&nbsp;

IPL 2019 will start from March 23 where the defending champions Chennai Super Kings will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore team.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;

A few days earlier, India's wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant, who plays for Delhi Capitals in IPL, had teased former Indian captain MS Dhoni is a promotional video that went viral.

A few days earlier, India's wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant, who plays for Delhi Capitals in IPL, had teased former Indian captain MS Dhoni is a promotional video that went viral. Pant had warned that the popular "Captain Cool", will lose his coolness in the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the skipper of Chennai Super Kings, has reacted to the video and gave a fitting reply to Pant. Dhoni said, "Jab mai maidan me utra tha, toh aise hi sochta tha. Ajaa Rishabh, wicket k peeche toh mai hi rahoonga." He ended the video by saying, "Game dikha, name bana." The English translation goes as, "When I was young, I had a similar attitude. Common Rishabh, I will wait for you from behind the stumps." "Show your game and earn a name for himself, " Dhoni added. Watch the video: How's that for a response from Captain Cool? 😎😎#VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/BAMYwNLA7v — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) February 28, 2019 × Earlier, Pant tweeted, "Mahi Bhai, Sab aap se seekha hai, toh aap ke saamne game toh dikhana banta hai! #VIVOIPL mein milengey - Kya kehte ho." In the viral video, he can be heard saying, "Mahi bhai na guru ke samaan hain. Agar Mahi bhai nahi hote na, pata nahi mai wicketkeeper-batsman hota, nahi hota." "Lekin is baari unki team pe main aisa barsoonga ki captain cool, cool nahi rahenge. Mahi bhai tayyar rehna, game dikhane aa raha hoon," Pant added. Ahead of the twelfth edition of Indian Premier League, all the franchises and players are busy in promoting their teams. IPL 2019 will start from March 23 where the defending champions Chennai Super Kings will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore team. Delhi Capitals will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai Indians.

Watch: Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni responds to Rishabh Pant's IPL warning

Three-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Mumbai Indians Monday unveiled a new jersey for the upcoming season.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians, who clinched tournament in 2013, 2015 and 2017, took to Twitter to showcase their new uniform.&nbsp;

The franchise maintained their blue and gold colours but played with the pattern.&nbsp;The video posted on Twitter features their captain Rohit Sharma along with other stars like Jasprit Bumrah, Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya.

In another video, Mumbai Indians said, "The Blue and Gold legacy continues to shine. Paltan, here's the official MI kit for #VIVOIPL 2019"."

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New season, new avatar👌🏻 
 
Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/krunalpandya24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@krunalpandya24</a> in the all-new MI kit today 👕🧢💙 
 
👀: MITV 
⏱: 1.00 PM 
📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> 1 Hindi and SS 1 HD Hindi<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketMeriJaan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketMeriJaan</a> <a href="https://t.co/iPD5O0htyB">pic.twitter.com/iPD5O0htyB</a>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1099545520652148736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Blue and Gold legacy continues to shine 💙✨ 
 
Paltan, here's the official MI kit for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> 2019 😍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketMeriJaan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketMeriJaan</a> <a href="https://t.co/ob4Syhq29X">pic.twitter.com/ob4Syhq29X</a>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1099651187136069632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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For the upcoming season, the franchise retained their core group of 18 players. They also bought veteran Yuvraj Singh, Lasith Malinga along with Anmolpreet Singh, Barinder Sran, Pankaj Jaiswal and youngster Rasikh Dar in the auction.

The team will open their campaign in IPL 2019 against Delhi Capital at the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai on March 24.

Three-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Mumbai Indians Monday unveiled a new jersey for the upcoming season. Mumbai Indians, who clinched tournament in 2013, 2015 and 2017, took to Twitter to showcase their new uniform.

Three-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Mumbai Indians Monday unveiled a new jersey for the upcoming season. Mumbai Indians, who clinched tournament in 2013, 2015 and 2017, took to Twitter to showcase their new uniform. The franchise maintained their blue and gold colours but played with the pattern. The video posted on Twitter features their captain Rohit Sharma along with other stars like Jasprit Bumrah, Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya. In another video, Mumbai Indians said, "The Blue and Gold legacy continues to shine. Paltan, here's the official MI kit for #VIVOIPL 2019"." New season, new avatar👌🏻 Watch @ImRo45, @Jaspritbumrah93, @hardikpandya7 and @krunalpandya24 in the all-new MI kit today 👕🧢💙 👀: MITV ⏱: 1.00 PM 📺: @StarSportsIndia 1 Hindi and SS 1 HD Hindi#CricketMeriJaan pic.twitter.com/iPD5O0htyB — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) February 24, 2019 × The Blue and Gold legacy continues to shine 💙✨ Paltan, here's the official MI kit for #VIVOIPL 2019 😍#CricketMeriJaan pic.twitter.com/ob4Syhq29X — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) February 24, 2019 × For the upcoming season, the franchise retained their core group of 18 players. They also bought veteran Yuvraj Singh, Lasith Malinga along with Anmolpreet Singh, Barinder Sran, Pankaj Jaiswal and youngster Rasikh Dar in the auction. The team will open their campaign in IPL 2019 against Delhi Capital at the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai on March 24.

Watch: Mumbai Indians unveil new jersey for IPL 2019

A few days ahead of India's annual cash-rich and one of the most entertaining cricket leagues, Indian Premier League (IPL), cricketer Rishabh Pant has set up the mood for the tournament.&nbsp;

In a hilarious video, Pant teased former Indian captain MS Dhoni and warned him that the popular "captain cool", will lose his coolness in the upcoming edition of IPL.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old donned a brand new jersey of a revamped IPL team Delhi in the promotional video which was shared by Pant.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He tweeted, "Mahi Bhai, Sab aap se seekha hai, toh aap ke saamne game toh dikhana banta hai! #VIVOIPL mein milengey - Kya kehte ho."&nbsp;

In his video, he can be heard saying, "Mahi bhai na guru ke samaan hain. Agar Mahi bhai nahi hote na, pata nahi mai wicketkeeper-batsman hota, nahi hota."

"Lekin is baari unki team pe main aisa barsoonga ki captain cool, cool nahi rahenge. Mahi bhai tayyar rehna, game dikhane aa raha hoon," Pant added.&nbsp;

The English translation goes as "Mahi bhai (MS Doni) is like a teacher. If he would not have been there, I do not know whether I would have become a wicket-keeper batsman."&nbsp;

"But this time, I will hit his team so hard that Dhoni, who is known as captain cool, won't remain cool. Mahi bhai be ready, I am coming to show you the game.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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Mahi Bhai, Sab aap se seekha hai, toh aap ke saamne game toh dikhana banta hai! 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> mein milengey - Kya kehte ho, <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/eoJXJmhbDX">pic.twitter.com/eoJXJmhbDX</a>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabPant777) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabPant777/status/1099215579838406656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The video ended with Dhoni's confused look.&nbsp;

Pant has been outstanding in the IPL so far, where he scored 1248 runs in 38 matches with a strike rate of 162.71.&nbsp;

Especially in the previous edition, where he scored 684 runs.&nbsp;

Pant, who is considered a favourite contender to replace Dhoni is all cricket format, earned praises for his crucial contribution in India's historic Test series win in Australia. He scored 350 runs in the four-match Test series, which was second only to Cheteshwar Pujara's tally.&nbsp;

IPL 2019 will start from March 23 where the defending champions Chennai will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team.&nbsp;

Delhi will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai.&nbsp;

A few days ahead of India's annual cash-rich and one of the most entertaining cricket leagues, Indian Premier League (IPL), cricketer Rishabh Pant has set up the mood for the tournament.

A few days ahead of India's annual cash-rich and one of the most entertaining cricket leagues, Indian Premier League (IPL), cricketer Rishabh Pant has set up the mood for the tournament. In a hilarious video, Pant teased former Indian captain MS Dhoni and warned him that the popular "captain cool", will lose his coolness in the upcoming edition of IPL. The 21-year-old donned a brand new jersey of a revamped IPL team Delhi in the promotional video which was shared by Pant. He tweeted, "Mahi Bhai, Sab aap se seekha hai, toh aap ke saamne game toh dikhana banta hai! #VIVOIPL mein milengey - Kya kehte ho." In his video, he can be heard saying, "Mahi bhai na guru ke samaan hain. Agar Mahi bhai nahi hote na, pata nahi mai wicketkeeper-batsman hota, nahi hota." "Lekin is baari unki team pe main aisa barsoonga ki captain cool, cool nahi rahenge. Mahi bhai tayyar rehna, game dikhane aa raha hoon," Pant added. The English translation goes as "Mahi bhai (MS Doni) is like a teacher. If he would not have been there, I do not know whether I would have become a wicket-keeper batsman." "But this time, I will hit his team so hard that Dhoni, who is known as captain cool, won't remain cool. Mahi bhai be ready, I am coming to show you the game. Watch the video here: Mahi Bhai, Sab aap se seekha hai, toh aap ke saamne game toh dikhana banta hai! 😉#VIVOIPL mein milengey - Kya kehte ho, @msdhoni @StarSportsIndia @IPL pic.twitter.com/eoJXJmhbDX — Rishabh Pant (@RishabPant777) February 23, 2019 × The video ended with Dhoni's confused look. Pant has been outstanding in the IPL so far, where he scored 1248 runs in 38 matches with a strike rate of 162.71. Especially in the previous edition, where he scored 684 runs. Pant, who is considered a favourite contender to replace Dhoni is all cricket format, earned praises for his crucial contribution in India's historic Test series win in Australia. He scored 350 runs in the four-match Test series, which was second only to Cheteshwar Pujara's tally. IPL 2019 will start from March 23 where the defending champions Chennai will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team. Delhi will play their first match on March 24 against Mumbai.

Watch: Rishabh Pant teases 'Captain Cool' ahead of IPL 2019; don't miss Dhoni's reaction

Mithali Raj Sunday came out in support of starting a women's version of the cash-rich Indian Premier League after having spoken against it earlier.

"I felt that (way) before the ODI World Cup. At that point of time the players' identity as individual players was not as big as the ODI World Cup where people started to understand what is Indian women's cricket and who all play for the team," said Mithali.

She was speaking on the eve of the second One-day International against world champions England.

"Now since a year or two people have gone beyond 2-3 players. They recognise other players in the squad and now is the right time to get in IPL because T20 is also a format that ICC is looking to promote in women's cricket," added Mithali.

In the women's 50-over World Cup, the Indian team made the final where they lost to England, generating a huge amount of interest in the country.

Mithali felt that there will be cascading effect on their game's structure with the introduction of women's IPL.

She spoke about the A tour concept to develop the women's game.

"We also have India A tour. I'm sure there is one in the near future. If we have more of that and we can give opportunity to the second string, not just playing versus the visiting teams, but also tours abroad to Australia or New Zealand. That exposure will help them immensely," she remarked.

"As far as IPL is concerned, if that can be a double-header, like how we had the T20Is in New Zealand, that will definitely garner more people to come and watch us play, and obviously televising it and marketing it will get a lot of people to follow it," she added.

The India women's ODI skipper also saw the plans to conduct U-19 and U-21 World Cups for women as an advantage.

"It will be important because every country is looking forward to getting more girls to play the sport. And if you have another World Cup, of say Under-19 or Under-21, it gives an opportunity for young girls to compete at that level because there's something to look forward to.

"Someone who's playing U-19, they have to straightaway aim for the senior level. That's a long shot. Very few are able to make it. For the rest who don't make it, at least they have another shot at playing or representing their country at the World Cup (at the juniors level)."

Mithali Raj Sunday came out in support of starting a women's version of the cash-rich Indian Premier League after having spoken against it earlier. "I felt that (way) before the ODI World Cup.

Mithali Raj Sunday came out in support of starting a women's version of the cash-rich Indian Premier League after having spoken against it earlier. "I felt that (way) before the ODI World Cup. At that point of time the players' identity as individual players was not as big as the ODI World Cup where people started to understand what is Indian women's cricket and who all play for the team," said Mithali. She was speaking on the eve of the second One-day International against world champions England. "Now since a year or two people have gone beyond 2-3 players. They recognise other players in the squad and now is the right time to get in IPL because T20 is also a format that ICC is looking to promote in women's cricket," added Mithali. In the women's 50-over World Cup, the Indian team made the final where they lost to England, generating a huge amount of interest in the country. Mithali felt that there will be cascading effect on their game's structure with the introduction of women's IPL. She spoke about the A tour concept to develop the women's game. "We also have India A tour. I'm sure there is one in the near future. If we have more of that and we can give opportunity to the second string, not just playing versus the visiting teams, but also tours abroad to Australia or New Zealand. That exposure will help them immensely," she remarked. "As far as IPL is concerned, if that can be a double-header, like how we had the T20Is in New Zealand, that will definitely garner more people to come and watch us play, and obviously televising it and marketing it will get a lot of people to follow it," she added. The India women's ODI skipper also saw the plans to conduct U-19 and U-21 World Cups for women as an advantage. "It will be important because every country is looking forward to getting more girls to play the sport. And if you have another World Cup, of say Under-19 or Under-21, it gives an opportunity for young girls to compete at that level because there's something to look forward to. "Someone who's playing U-19, they have to straightaway aim for the senior level. That's a long shot. Very few are able to make it. For the rest who don't make it, at least they have another shot at playing or representing their country at the World Cup (at the juniors level)."

Mithali Raj backs women's IPL after World Cup performance

60 cricketers, including international players, were sold for Rs 1,06,80,00,000 in the recently held auction for the 2019 cricket tournament Indian Premier League (IPL).

The one who cracked the jackpot in the auction was Tamil Nadu’s mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who was bought by Punjab for a whopping Rs 8.40 crore. He was carrying a base price of Rs 20 lakh.

Interestingly, left-arm pacer Jaydev Unadkat who was released by Rajasthan following his dismal show in this year’s edition was again signed by the franchise for Rs 8.40 crore. In the 2018 previous season, Unadkat was the most expensive Indian cricketer with Rajasthan shelling out Rs 11.5 crore for his services. He had taken 11 wickets in 15 matches he had played.

Every year, there are some players who rise up to the occasion and make their presence count on the big stage with some great performances during the season.

Not only the player’s performances but the brand IPL too is soaring high with each passing year.

According to a report by New York-based corporate finance advisory firm Duff &amp; Phelps, the brand value of the Indian Premier League tournament has soared 19 per cent to US$6.3 billion in 2018,

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai is the highest team in terms of brand value at US$113 million for the third year in a row. SRK co-owned Kolkata ranked second at US$104 million, while the two-year ban imposed on Chennai and Rajasthan had a negative impact on their brand value.&nbsp;&nbsp;Although the presence of MS Dhoni for Chennai helped them reach US$98 million alongside Bengaluru.

Dhoni-led Chennai won this year’s edition after Share Watson slammed a brilliant unbeaten 117 to beat Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There are some reports that the 2019 edition could take place in South Africa. The news comes amid the expectation that next year’s general elections in India. The competition itself is facing scheduling challenges due to the ICC Cricket World Cup also, which begins in England on 30th May.

The final of the 2018 IPL took place on May 27 and such a timeframe would not be possible in 2019 due to the World Cup. Thus, the IPL is said to be considering a late March start date, making a clash with elections viewed as a significant possibility.

While most teams like Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad had their core team intact, sides like Punjab and Delhi overhauled their squad completely.

60 cricketers, including international players, were sold for Rs 1,06,80,00,000 in the recently held auction for the 2019 cricket tournament Indian Premier League (IPL).

60 cricketers, including international players, were sold for Rs 1,06,80,00,000 in the recently held auction for the 2019 cricket tournament Indian Premier League (IPL). The one who cracked the jackpot in the auction was Tamil Nadu’s mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who was bought by Punjab for a whopping Rs 8.40 crore. He was carrying a base price of Rs 20 lakh. Interestingly, left-arm pacer Jaydev Unadkat who was released by Rajasthan following his dismal show in this year’s edition was again signed by the franchise for Rs 8.40 crore. In the 2018 previous season, Unadkat was the most expensive Indian cricketer with Rajasthan shelling out Rs 11.5 crore for his services. He had taken 11 wickets in 15 matches he had played. Every year, there are some players who rise up to the occasion and make their presence count on the big stage with some great performances during the season. Not only the player’s performances but the brand IPL too is soaring high with each passing year. According to a report by New York-based corporate finance advisory firm Duff & Phelps, the brand value of the Indian Premier League tournament has soared 19 per cent to US$6.3 billion in 2018, Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai is the highest team in terms of brand value at US$113 million for the third year in a row. SRK co-owned Kolkata ranked second at US$104 million, while the two-year ban imposed on Chennai and Rajasthan had a negative impact on their brand value. Although the presence of MS Dhoni for Chennai helped them reach US$98 million alongside Bengaluru. Dhoni-led Chennai won this year’s edition after Share Watson slammed a brilliant unbeaten 117 to beat Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad. There are some reports that the 2019 edition could take place in South Africa. The news comes amid the expectation that next year’s general elections in India. The competition itself is facing scheduling challenges due to the ICC Cricket World Cup also, which begins in England on 30th May. The final of the 2018 IPL took place on May 27 and such a timeframe would not be possible in 2019 due to the World Cup. Thus, the IPL is said to be considering a late March start date, making a clash with elections viewed as a significant possibility. While most teams like Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad had their core team intact, sides like Punjab and Delhi overhauled their squad completely.

‘Brand’ Indian Premier League and its worth in cricket world

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-auction-uncapped-varun-chakravarthy-bags-rs-84-crore-deal-yuvraj-finds-a-buyer-at-last-185195">India's cash-rich tournament Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) held its auction for the 12th edition on Tuesday, and like always, this time also the cricket tournament left the fans and audience confounded with the amount shelled to buy few uncapped cricketers.

Among many, Prayas Ray Barman scripted history by becoming the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/teenagers-outclass-experienced-players-at-ipl-2019-auction-185181">youngest-ever crorepati</a> at the tender age of 16 in this year's IPL after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/2019-ipl-auction-all-you-need-to-know-about-varun-chakravarthy-and-shivam-dube-185139">Virat Kohli-led Bangalore</a> bought him for Rs 1.5 crore from a base price Rs 20 lakh.

Born on October 23, 2002, Barman made his List A debut for Bengal in September this year in Vijay Hazare Trophy. He bowls leg-beak and is a very handy batsman. He was the leading wicket-taker for his side in the Vijay Hazare with 11 dismissals and nine catches.

Despite having an impressive List A debut against Jammu and Kashmir, bagging 4/20, Barman failed to grab a place in Bengal’s Ranji team.

Hailing from Durgapur, Prayas grew up in New Delhi where his father works as a general physician. But his growth as a cricketer happened at his native place where he joined Durgapur Cricket Centre and caught the attention in the Ambar Roy Sub-Junior Under-14 cricket tournament.

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11 wickets at a meager economy rate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the young 16 year old will learn a lot from <a href="https://twitter.com/yuzi_chahal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yuzi_chahal</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/12thMan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#12thMan</a>, welcome Prayas Ray Barman to Bengaluru!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BidForBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BidForBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/TBoiNMmT35">pic.twitter.com/TBoiNMmT35</a>
— Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1075048133149843457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Picked for Bengal U-16, he shifted his base to Kolkata where he lives in a flat with his grandparents.&nbsp;

Barman will be joining Virat Kohli and company at the Bangalore camp and it will be a huge opportunity for the young player, whose name was unknown to many across the nation before yesterday.&nbsp;

India's cash-rich tournament Indian Premier League (IPL) held its auction for the 12th edition on Tuesday, and like always, this time also the cricket tournament left the fans and audience confounded with the amount shelled to buy few uncapped cricketers.

India's cash-rich tournament Indian Premier League (IPL) held its auction for the 12th edition on Tuesday, and like always, this time also the cricket tournament left the fans and audience confounded with the amount shelled to buy few uncapped cricketers. Among many, Prayas Ray Barman scripted history by becoming the youngest-ever crorepati at the tender age of 16 in this year's IPL after Virat Kohli-led Bangalore bought him for Rs 1.5 crore from a base price Rs 20 lakh. Born on October 23, 2002, Barman made his List A debut for Bengal in September this year in Vijay Hazare Trophy. He bowls leg-beak and is a very handy batsman. He was the leading wicket-taker for his side in the Vijay Hazare with 11 dismissals and nine catches. Despite having an impressive List A debut against Jammu and Kashmir, bagging 4/20, Barman failed to grab a place in Bengal’s Ranji team. Hailing from Durgapur, Prayas grew up in New Delhi where his father works as a general physician. But his growth as a cricketer happened at his native place where he joined Durgapur Cricket Centre and caught the attention in the Ambar Roy Sub-Junior Under-14 cricket tournament. 11 wickets at a meager economy rate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the young 16 year old will learn a lot from @yuzi_chahal!#12thMan, welcome Prayas Ray Barman to Bengaluru!#PlayBold #BidForBold #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/TBoiNMmT35 — Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) December 18, 2018 × Picked for Bengal U-16, he shifted his base to Kolkata where he lives in a flat with his grandparents. Barman will be joining Virat Kohli and company at the Bangalore camp and it will be a huge opportunity for the young player, whose name was unknown to many across the nation before yesterday.

IPL 2019 auction: Bought for Rs 1.5 cr, Bangalore's Prayas Ray Barman is youngest crorepati at 16

The Indian Premier League auction for the 2019 edition will be held in Jaipur on December 18, the Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed on Monday.&nbsp;

A total of 70 slots are available with a maximum of 50 Indian players and 20 overseas players allowed to be picked.

Punjab have the maximum amount left in the purse having released 11 players from their pool.&nbsp; 
Defending champions Chennai, led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni, can buy just two players - having retained 23 players - and have Rs. 8.4 crores in their bank.&nbsp;

Apart from these two, Delhi, Rajasthan and Kolkata are also expected to be on a shopping spree.

Mumbai will look to fill just one overseas spot while Kolkata can buy the maximum number of overseas players - five.&nbsp;

Hyderabad have Rs 9.70 crores in their purse and have three Indian slots and two overseas slots to fill.

The Indian Premier League auction for the 2019 edition will be held in Jaipur on December 18, the Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed on Monday. A total of 70 slots are available with a maximum of 50 Indian players and 20 overseas players allowed to be picked.

The Indian Premier League auction for the 2019 edition will be held in Jaipur on December 18, the Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed on Monday. A total of 70 slots are available with a maximum of 50 Indian players and 20 overseas players allowed to be picked. Punjab have the maximum amount left in the purse having released 11 players from their pool. Defending champions Chennai, led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni, can buy just two players - having retained 23 players - and have Rs. 8.4 crores in their bank. Apart from these two, Delhi, Rajasthan and Kolkata are also expected to be on a shopping spree. Mumbai will look to fill just one overseas spot while Kolkata can buy the maximum number of overseas players - five. Hyderabad have Rs 9.70 crores in their purse and have three Indian slots and two overseas slots to fill.

IPL 2019 auction to be held on December 18

Leaving other mega sporting leagues behind, India's cash-rich domestic T20 cricket league, the Indian Premier League (IPL), has topped the charts when it comes to average money paid to players per game.&nbsp;

As per the latest edition of the Global Sports Salaries Survey, an IPL player is paid an average of £274,624 per game.

The National Football League (NFL), which is a professional American football league consisting of 32 teams, came in second at £138,354 paid to players over 16 games.&nbsp;

The English Premier League came in at third place, with its clubs paying players an average of £78,703 per match during a 38-game season.&nbsp;

How the IPL became so big?&nbsp;

Involvement of Bollywood industry and superstars have made the league glamourous and popular worldwide. &nbsp;

Rich businessmen and industrialists have always looked after the proper flow and channelisation of money. &nbsp;

However, two notable things happened with IPL wages in 2018: they got bigger, and the outlay by different teams got closer together. &nbsp;

The rise saw the pro-rated average annual salary rise from $3.9m in 2017 to more than $5m this year, a leap of 29.8 per cent. &nbsp;

Remember, Royal Challengers Bangalore paid £2m to retain India captain Virat Kohli and Ben Stokes who was purchased by Rajasthan Royals for a whopping $12.5 crore during the auctions in the last edition of IPL.

That is no doubt related to the fact that the team owners are now making more money and are passing some of it on. &nbsp;

A new five-year TV rights deal, concluded last year for $2.55bn (£1.96bn) for 2018-2022, has come on stream. &nbsp;

That guarantees the medium-term future of an event that has often struggled for certainty. &nbsp;

The tiny difference in average player spending this year between the best-paid team from Kolkata and the worst-paid from Chennai (with a top-to-bottom ratio of 1.12 to 1) makes IPL the 'fairest' league in this year's survey in this regard. &nbsp;

The ratio between the highest paid team and lowest paid is 1.12 to 1. None of the other major leagues have a ‘fairer’ spread, with a lower gap. &nbsp;

Uniquely, IPL salaries are pro-rated from weekly pay to annual pay because, again uniquely, IPL players typically have multiple different professional employers concurrently.&nbsp;

Leaving other mega sporting leagues behind, India's cash-rich domestic T20 cricket league, the Indian Premier League (IPL), has topped the charts when it comes to average money paid to players per game.

Leaving other mega sporting leagues behind, India's cash-rich domestic T20 cricket league, the Indian Premier League (IPL), has topped the charts when it comes to average money paid to players per game. As per the latest edition of the Global Sports Salaries Survey, an IPL player is paid an average of £274,624 per game. The National Football League (NFL), which is a professional American football league consisting of 32 teams, came in second at £138,354 paid to players over 16 games. The English Premier League came in at third place, with its clubs paying players an average of £78,703 per match during a 38-game season. How the IPL became so big? Involvement of Bollywood industry and superstars have made the league glamourous and popular worldwide. Rich businessmen and industrialists have always looked after the proper flow and channelisation of money. However, two notable things happened with IPL wages in 2018: they got bigger, and the outlay by different teams got closer together. The rise saw the pro-rated average annual salary rise from $3.9m in 2017 to more than $5m this year, a leap of 29.8 per cent. Remember, Royal Challengers Bangalore paid £2m to retain India captain Virat Kohli and Ben Stokes who was purchased by Rajasthan Royals for a whopping $12.5 crore during the auctions in the last edition of IPL. That is no doubt related to the fact that the team owners are now making more money and are passing some of it on. A new five-year TV rights deal, concluded last year for $2.55bn (£1.96bn) for 2018-2022, has come on stream. That guarantees the medium-term future of an event that has often struggled for certainty. The tiny difference in average player spending this year between the best-paid team from Kolkata and the worst-paid from Chennai (with a top-to-bottom ratio of 1.12 to 1) makes IPL the 'fairest' league in this year's survey in this regard. The ratio between the highest paid team and lowest paid is 1.12 to 1. None of the other major leagues have a ‘fairer’ spread, with a lower gap. Uniquely, IPL salaries are pro-rated from weekly pay to annual pay because, again uniquely, IPL players typically have multiple different professional employers concurrently.

IPL pays its players more than any other league. You'll never believe how much

Former Australia captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner have been retained by their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises after the duo missed the previous edition following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

The pair are serving year-long bans for their part in the Cape Town incident in March and were barred from the 2018 IPL tournament.

The 12th edition of the lucrative Twenty20 league will be played from March 29 to May 19, having been brought forward because of the 50-over World Cup in England, which begins on May 30.

The batsmen's bans will end on the same day the tournament starts and they could end up playing in the IPL before their compatriots after Cricket Australia (CA) imposed a series of conditions for the participation of contracted players.

Australian cricketers need to receive permission from their home board and must be available to play at the World Cup and on the Ashes tour of England that follows in August and September.

CA said players involved in the Sheffield Shield final will only be released once that concluded on April 1, while the 15 players selected to defend the World Cup must attend a mandatory training camp in early May and play warm-up matches.

Smith has also been banned from taking on a leadership position for an additional 12 months and Warner, who led the Sunrisers Hyderabad to a maiden IPL title in 2016, will not be allowed to serve in an Australian leadership position again.

The Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers paid $1.67 million each at last year's IPL auction for the services of Smith and Warner.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner have been retained by their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises after the duo missed the previous edition following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner have been retained by their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises after the duo missed the previous edition following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. The pair are serving year-long bans for their part in the Cape Town incident in March and were barred from the 2018 IPL tournament. The 12th edition of the lucrative Twenty20 league will be played from March 29 to May 19, having been brought forward because of the 50-over World Cup in England, which begins on May 30. The batsmen's bans will end on the same day the tournament starts and they could end up playing in the IPL before their compatriots after Cricket Australia (CA) imposed a series of conditions for the participation of contracted players. Australian cricketers need to receive permission from their home board and must be available to play at the World Cup and on the Ashes tour of England that follows in August and September. CA said players involved in the Sheffield Shield final will only be released once that concluded on April 1, while the 15 players selected to defend the World Cup must attend a mandatory training camp in early May and play warm-up matches. Smith has also been banned from taking on a leadership position for an additional 12 months and Warner, who led the Sunrisers Hyderabad to a maiden IPL title in 2016, will not be allowed to serve in an Australian leadership position again. The Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers paid $1.67 million each at last year's IPL auction for the services of Smith and Warner.

Smith, Warner to make IPL return next year

New Zealand Cricket has allowed their players to take part in the entire duration of the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Several reports have been doing the rounds that the cricket boards of Australia and England will not allow their players to play next year's IPL because of the 2019 ICC World Cup, which is beginning in May-end in England.&nbsp;

However, an announcement was made by James Wear, GM Commercial, New Zealand Cricket saying that the board "has decided is to allow its players to play" in IPL 2019.

He made his comments at a special interaction arranged by official broadcasters of IPL, Star Sports.&nbsp;

"One of the things New Zealand Cricket has decided is to allow its players to play in the Indian Premier League right till the end of the IPL," Wear told a select group of reporters.

"So we are keen to give our guys as much experience playing all around the world as possible so that they get a great experience by playing in the IPL," explained Wear on the reason behind the Kiwi cricket board's decision even with the ICC World Cup following shortly after the conclusion of the T20 league.&nbsp;

"Last season we had 11 players playing in there (IPL), which was great for us and we are keen to continue that," added Wear.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, pacers Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Trent Boult and Mitchell McClenaghan regularly feature in the cash-rich T20 league.&nbsp;

Recently, Indian skipper Virat Kohli's suggested that Indian fast bowlers should be rested or during the next year's Indian Premier League (IPL) to avoid fatigue and injuries.

New Zealand Cricket has allowed their players to take part in the entire duration of the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Several reports have been doing the rounds that the cricket boards of Australia and England will not allow their players to play next year's IPL because of the 2019 ICC World Cup, which is beginning in May-end in England.

New Zealand Cricket has allowed their players to take part in the entire duration of the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Several reports have been doing the rounds that the cricket boards of Australia and England will not allow their players to play next year's IPL because of the 2019 ICC World Cup, which is beginning in May-end in England. However, an announcement was made by James Wear, GM Commercial, New Zealand Cricket saying that the board "has decided is to allow its players to play" in IPL 2019. He made his comments at a special interaction arranged by official broadcasters of IPL, Star Sports. "One of the things New Zealand Cricket has decided is to allow its players to play in the Indian Premier League right till the end of the IPL," Wear told a select group of reporters. "So we are keen to give our guys as much experience playing all around the world as possible so that they get a great experience by playing in the IPL," explained Wear on the reason behind the Kiwi cricket board's decision even with the ICC World Cup following shortly after the conclusion of the T20 league. "Last season we had 11 players playing in there (IPL), which was great for us and we are keen to continue that," added Wear. New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, pacers Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Trent Boult and Mitchell McClenaghan regularly feature in the cash-rich T20 league. Recently, Indian skipper Virat Kohli's suggested that Indian fast bowlers should be rested or during the next year's Indian Premier League (IPL) to avoid fatigue and injuries.

IPL 2019: New Zealand players available for full season

Former Indian cricket team opener Virender Sehwag is no longer associated with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab.&nbsp;

The 40-year-old, who was a mentor with the side for the last three years, announced the news on his Twitter handle.&nbsp;

As per several reports, things started falling apart for Sehwag after Punjab appointed former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson on a two-year contract earlier this week, replacing Australian Brad Hodge.

“All good things must come to an end and I’ve had a wonderful time at Kings 11 (sic) Punjab, for 2 seasons as a player and 3 as a mentor. My association with Kings 11 (sic) comes to an end and I am thankful for the time I have had here and wish the team all the very best for the times ahead,” tweeted Sehwag.

Punjab have never won the IPL and their last appearance in the play-offs came in 2014, when they lost to Kolkata in the final.

Former Indian cricket team opener Virender Sehwag is no longer associated with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab. The 40-year-old, who was a mentor with the side for the last three years, announced the news on his Twitter handle.

Former Indian cricket team opener Virender Sehwag is no longer associated with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab. The 40-year-old, who was a mentor with the side for the last three years, announced the news on his Twitter handle. As per several reports, things started falling apart for Sehwag after Punjab appointed former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson on a two-year contract earlier this week, replacing Australian Brad Hodge. “All good things must come to an end and I’ve had a wonderful time at Kings 11 (sic) Punjab, for 2 seasons as a player and 3 as a mentor. My association with Kings 11 (sic) comes to an end and I am thankful for the time I have had here and wish the team all the very best for the times ahead,” tweeted Sehwag. Punjab have never won the IPL and their last appearance in the play-offs came in 2014, when they lost to Kolkata in the final.

IPL: Virender Sehwag steps down as Punjab mentor

Indian Premier League (IPL) star batsman Sanju Samson on Tuesday was ruled out of India's A squad for the England tour after he failed the Yo-Yo (fitness) Test. &nbsp

However, his replacement has not been named yet. But there are reports that Mumbai batsman Ishan Kishan is being considered for his role and will be coached by former India skipper Rahul Dravid. &nbsp

According to media reports, Samson's score in the test was below the prescribed 16.1 mark.&nbsp

Samson was part of the India 'A' squad which will take part in a triangular series involving hosts England Lions with the third team being West Indies 'A'.&nbsp

The India 'A' tour of England will begin with an ODI tri-series against England Lions and West Indies A, from June 22.

Sanju created his identity as a capable batsman in the recently concluded IPL where he scored 441 runs for 15 games at a strike-rate of 137.81 for &nbspRajasthan.

In fact, he was the most prolific scorer for the franchise after Jos Buttler played an integral part in helping the team get into the knockouts this season.

There are reports that Ishan Kishan is being considered for his role

Indian Premier League (IPL) star batsman Sanju Samson on Tuesday was ruled out of India's A squad for the England tour after he failed the Yo-Yo (fitness) Test. However, his replacement has not been named yet. But there are reports that Mumbai batsman Ishan Kishan is being considered for his role and will be coached by former India skipper Rahul Dravid. According to media reports, Samson's score in the test was below the prescribed 16.1 mark. Samson was part of the India 'A' squad which will take part in a triangular series involving hosts England Lions with the third team being West Indies 'A'. The India 'A' tour of England will begin with an ODI tri-series against England Lions and West Indies A, from June 22. Sanju created his identity as a capable batsman in the recently concluded IPL where he scored 441 runs for 15 games at a strike-rate of 137.81 for &nbspRajasthan. In fact, he was the most prolific scorer for the franchise after Jos Buttler played an integral part in helping the team get into the knockouts this season.

IPL star Sanju Samson fails fitness test, ruled out of India's A squad for England

After Arbaaz Khan, another Bollywood name has emerged in the IPL betting scandal. Filmmaker Sajid Khan's name has emerged in connection to the IPL betting racket.&nbsp; 
 
According to media reports, kingpin of the racket, Sonu Jalan, told investigators that filmmaker Sajid Khan was his client&nbsp;and that he used to place bets on behalf of the director regularly.

However, Jalan has stated that he used to place bets on behalf of the filmmaker seven years ago. The police said they will investigate the involvement of Sajid Khan and then decide if he needs to be questioned.

On June 1, police had busted a betting ring and arrested the 42-year-old bookie. Jalan is reportedly linked with underworld don Dawood Ibrahim. It was Jalan who name Arbaaz Khan in the betting racket. Khan was questioned by the cops and the actor had confessed that he had lost Rs 2.8 crore in betting.&nbsp; 
 
Meanwhile, the Thane anti-extortion cell has recovered screenshots of betting rates from Jalan's mobile phone. They have reportedly moved the operation online this year and placed the bets through a website called betntake.com, police said.&nbsp;

According to media reports, kingpin of the racket, Sonu Jalan, told investigators that filmmaker Sajid Khan was one of his clients.

After Arbaaz Khan, another Bollywood name has emerged in the IPL betting scandal. Filmmaker Sajid Khan's name has emerged in connection to the IPL betting racket. According to media reports, kingpin of the racket, Sonu Jalan, told investigators that filmmaker Sajid Khan was his client and that he used to place bets on behalf of the director regularly. However, Jalan has stated that he used to place bets on behalf of the filmmaker seven years ago. The police said they will investigate the involvement of Sajid Khan and then decide if he needs to be questioned. On June 1, police had busted a betting ring and arrested the 42-year-old bookie. Jalan is reportedly linked with underworld don Dawood Ibrahim. It was Jalan who name Arbaaz Khan in the betting racket. Khan was questioned by the cops and the actor had confessed that he had lost Rs 2.8 crore in betting. Meanwhile, the Thane anti-extortion cell has recovered screenshots of betting rates from Jalan's mobile phone. They have reportedly moved the operation online this year and placed the bets through a website called betntake.com, police said.

IPL betting scandal: Filmmaker Sajid Khan to be questioned by police?

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty's husband Raj Kundra was summoned to Enforcement Directorate(ED) today in connection with I-T department's notice to bitcoin users who were conducting transaction of more than 1 crore per day.

The ED is examining alleged money laundering and fraud in bitcoin transactions.

In December, the Reserve Bank of India(RBI) had cautioned users of bitcoin for the third time citing potential economic, financial, operational, legal, customer protection and security related risks.

The London-born businessman was earlier embroiled in the IPL scandal after he confessed to betting in Rajasthan Royals matches. The Supreme Court had imposed a life ban on Kundra from entering cricket stadium in India.

The London-born businessman was earlier embroiled in the IPL scandal

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty's husband Raj Kundra was summoned to Enforcement Directorate(ED) today in connection with I-T department's notice to bitcoin users who were conducting transaction of more than 1 crore per day. The ED is examining alleged money laundering and fraud in bitcoin transactions. In December, the Reserve Bank of India(RBI) had cautioned users of bitcoin for the third time citing potential economic, financial, operational, legal, customer protection and security related risks. The London-born businessman was earlier embroiled in the IPL scandal after he confessed to betting in Rajasthan Royals matches. The Supreme Court had imposed a life ban on Kundra from entering cricket stadium in India.

ED summons Shilpa Shetty's husband Raj Kundra in bitcoin probe

Wriddhiman Saha has been ruled out from the one-off test against Afghanistan with a thumb injury that will need up to six weeks to heal.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the news on Saturday.

The 33-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman injured his right thumb while playing for Hyderabad against Kolkata in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs on May 25.

Saha will be replaced by Dinesh Karthik for the match starting June 14 in Bengaluru, when Afghanistan will make their debut in the five-day format after being granted full member status along with Ireland last June.

"He was under observation by the medical staff of the BCCI and the management has decided to give him adequate rest before the start of the England test series," the BCCI said in a statement.&nbsp

"Saha`s recovery period is expected to be around five to six weeks."

Saha has been India's regular gloveman since the retirement of former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in December 2014.&nbsp

He has played 32 tests and averages above 30 with the bat. 
&nbsp

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the news on Saturday.

Wriddhiman Saha has been ruled out from the one-off test against Afghanistan with a thumb injury that will need up to six weeks to heal. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the news on Saturday. The 33-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman injured his right thumb while playing for Hyderabad against Kolkata in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs on May 25. Saha will be replaced by Dinesh Karthik for the match starting June 14 in Bengaluru, when Afghanistan will make their debut in the five-day format after being granted full member status along with Ireland last June. "He was under observation by the medical staff of the BCCI and the management has decided to give him adequate rest before the start of the England test series," the BCCI said in a statement. "Saha`s recovery period is expected to be around five to six weeks." Saha has been India's regular gloveman since the retirement of former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in December 2014. He has played 32 tests and averages above 30 with the bat.

Wriddhiman Saha ruled out of Afghanistan test

No India cricket match actually begins till he blows his conch. No Indian century celebration is complete without him waving the tricolour incessantly.

Yes, we are talking about Indian Cricket team and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar's biggest fan Sudhir Kumar Gautam.

His life revolves around the cricket stadiums and the Indian cricket team players.

The love is not one sided. Even the players respect his love for the game and leave no occasion to award him for his dedication in their own way.&nbsp;

Likewise, the 'super fan' Gautam was invited by the former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni at his farmhouse for lunch.&nbsp;

A jubilant Gautam shared pictures with captain cool and his family on his Twitter.

“Special Day with Captain Cool @msdhoni, Super Lunch with Super Family at Farm House. Words can’t describe the moments spent. Thank You MS Dhoni and Sakshi Di @SaakshiSRawat. Captain Relaxed after winning #IPL2018 @ChennaiIPL,” he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Special Day with Captain Cool <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>, Super Lunch with Super Family at Farm House. Words can't describe the moments spent. Thank You MS Dhoni and Sakshi Di <a href="https://twitter.com/SaakshiSRawat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SaakshiSRawat</a>. Captain Relaxed after winning <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>. <a href="https://t.co/qZHjGm9KCR">pic.twitter.com/qZHjGm9KCR</a>
— Sudhir Kumar Gautam (@Sudhir10dulkar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sudhir10dulkar/status/1002512187493998593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Dhoni is currently back in his hometown Ranchi after leading the Chennai to IPL success.&nbsp;

He will be back on the pitch when India take on Ireland in a two-match T20I series which would be followed by the tour of England for three T20Is, five ODIs and five Tests.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sudhir Kumar Gautam is the fan famous for painting himself in the colours of the Indian flag. He was called for lunch to Dhoni's farmhouse in Ranchi

No India cricket match actually begins till he blows his conch. No Indian century celebration is complete without him waving the tricolour incessantly. Yes, we are talking about Indian Cricket team and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar's biggest fan Sudhir Kumar Gautam. His life revolves around the cricket stadiums and the Indian cricket team players. The love is not one sided. Even the players respect his love for the game and leave no occasion to award him for his dedication in their own way. Likewise, the 'super fan' Gautam was invited by the former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni at his farmhouse for lunch. A jubilant Gautam shared pictures with captain cool and his family on his Twitter. “Special Day with Captain Cool @msdhoni, Super Lunch with Super Family at Farm House. Words can’t describe the moments spent. Thank You MS Dhoni and Sakshi Di @SaakshiSRawat. Captain Relaxed after winning #IPL2018 @ChennaiIPL,” he tweeted. Special Day with Captain Cool @msdhoni, Super Lunch with Super Family at Farm House. Words can't describe the moments spent. Thank You MS Dhoni and Sakshi Di @SaakshiSRawat. Captain Relaxed after winning #IPL2018 @ChennaiIPL. pic.twitter.com/qZHjGm9KCR — Sudhir Kumar Gautam (@Sudhir10dulkar) June 1, 2018 × Dhoni is currently back in his hometown Ranchi after leading the Chennai to IPL success. He will be back on the pitch when India take on Ireland in a two-match T20I series which would be followed by the tour of England for three T20Is, five ODIs and five Tests.

In pictures: MS Dhoni invites 'super fan' of Indian cricket home for lunch

Bollywood actor and producer Arbaaz Khan confessed to placing bets during the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018, as per media reports.&nbsp;

The actor confessed to his crime while recording his statement at Thane Police's Anti-Extortion Cell (AEC) on Saturday.

He further admitted that he has placing bets since last six years, reports added.

The 'Dabangg' actor appeared before the anti-Extortion Cell after he was summoned by the police in connection with Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 betting scam on Friday.

Producer Parag Sanghvi's name too has been brought in the IPL betting case.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FLASH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FLASH</a>: During interrogation actor Arbaaz Khan accepted that he had placed bets in IPL matches last year and had lost Rs 2.75 crore, say sources. <a href="https://t.co/6pWkaEnlVQ">pic.twitter.com/6pWkaEnlVQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002823804966486017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He was accompanied by brother Salman Khan's trusted bodyguard 'Shera'.

&nbsp;Arbaaz's name cropped up during the investigation of high profile bookie Sonu Jalan.&nbsp;Subsequently, he was asked to record his statement.

Jalan is reportedly linked with underworld don Dawood Ibrahim and was arrested from Kalyan court in Mumbai where he had come to meet one of the arrested accused in the same case of 2012 IPL betting case.&nbsp;

During the investigation, it was revealed that Jalan was in contact with Arbaaz and that he placed bets for the actor.&nbsp;

The police have also found pictures of him with Arbaaz Khan.

The actor confessed to his crime while recording his statement at Thane Police's Anti-Extortion Cell (AEC) on Friday.

Bollywood actor and producer Arbaaz Khan confessed to placing bets during the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018, as per media reports. The actor confessed to his crime while recording his statement at Thane Police's Anti-Extortion Cell (AEC) on Saturday. He further admitted that he has placing bets since last six years, reports added. The 'Dabangg' actor appeared before the anti-Extortion Cell after he was summoned by the police in connection with Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 betting scam on Friday. Producer Parag Sanghvi's name too has been brought in the IPL betting case. #FLASH: During interrogation actor Arbaaz Khan accepted that he had placed bets in IPL matches last year and had lost Rs 2.75 crore, say sources. pic.twitter.com/6pWkaEnlVQ — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2018 × He was accompanied by brother Salman Khan's trusted bodyguard 'Shera'. Arbaaz's name cropped up during the investigation of high profile bookie Sonu Jalan. Subsequently, he was asked to record his statement. Jalan is reportedly linked with underworld don Dawood Ibrahim and was arrested from Kalyan court in Mumbai where he had come to meet one of the arrested accused in the same case of 2012 IPL betting case. During the investigation, it was revealed that Jalan was in contact with Arbaaz and that he placed bets for the actor. The police have also found pictures of him with Arbaaz Khan.

IPL betting scandal: Arbaaz Khan admits to having placed bets, involvement for last 6 years

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609">Farmers begin </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609">10-day</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609"> nationwide strike, say will not sell </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609">produce</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609"> in cities</a>

Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike. The farmers said they would not sell their produce in cities.&nbsp;In Punjab and Maharashtra, farmers were seen dumping vegetables, fruit, and milk on the streets.&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/cbi-summons-p-chidambaram-to-appear-on-june-6-in-inx-media-case--141621">CBI summons P Chidambaram to appear on June 6 in INX Media case</a>

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has summoned P Chidambaram to appear on June 6 in connection with INX Media case, reported&nbsp;news agency ANI.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-ipl-betting-scam-actor-arbaaz-khan-summoned-by-thane-police-141575">IPL betting scam: Actor Arbaaz Khan summoned by Thane Police</a>

Bollywood actor-filmmaker Arbaaz Khan has been summoned by Thane police in Indian Premier League betting scam. He is said to appear tomorrow.&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/parliament-ousts-spain-pm-replaced-by-socialist-leader-141570">Parliament ousts Spain PM, replaced by Socialist leader</a>

Spain's parliament on Friday ousted Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote sparked by fury over his party's corruption woes, with his Socialist arch-rival Pedro Sanchez automatically taking over.&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pak-court-allows-ex-foreign-minister-khawaja-asif-to-contest-elections-141559">Pak court allows ex-foreign minister Khawaja Asif to contest elections</a>

Former Pakistani foreign minister Khawaja Asif will be allowed to contest a July 25 general election after the Supreme Court on Friday overturned his disqualification from politics, in a boost to the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party.

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Farmers begin 10-day nationwide strike, say will not sell produce in cities Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike. The farmers said they would not sell their produce in cities. In Punjab and Maharashtra, farmers were seen dumping vegetables, fruit, and milk on the streets. CBI summons P Chidambaram to appear on June 6 in INX Media case Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has summoned P Chidambaram to appear on June 6 in connection with INX Media case, reported news agency ANI. IPL betting scam: Actor Arbaaz Khan summoned by Thane Police Bollywood actor-filmmaker Arbaaz Khan has been summoned by Thane police in Indian Premier League betting scam. He is said to appear tomorrow. Parliament ousts Spain PM, replaced by Socialist leader Spain's parliament on Friday ousted Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote sparked by fury over his party's corruption woes, with his Socialist arch-rival Pedro Sanchez automatically taking over. Pak court allows ex-foreign minister Khawaja Asif to contest elections Former Pakistani foreign minister Khawaja Asif will be allowed to contest a July 25 general election after the Supreme Court on Friday overturned his disqualification from politics, in a boost to the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party.

News brief:  Big stories of the day

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609">Farmers begin </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609">10-day</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609"> nationwide strike, say will not sell </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609">produce</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-10-day-nationwide-strike-say-will-not-sell-produce-in-cities-141609"> in cities</a>

Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike. The farmers said they would not sell their produce in cities.&nbspIn Punjab and Maharashtra, farmers were seen dumping vegetables, fruit, and milk on the streets.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/cbi-summons-p-chidambaram-to-appear-on-june-6-in-inx-media-case--141621">CBI summons P Chidambaram to appear on June 6 in INX Media case</a>

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has summoned P Chidambaram to appear on June 6 in connection with INX Media case, reported&nbspnews agency ANI.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-ipl-betting-scam-actor-arbaaz-khan-summoned-by-thane-police-141575">IPL betting scam: Actor Arbaaz Khan summoned by Thane Police</a>

Bollywood actor-filmmaker Arbaaz Khan has been summoned by Thane police in Indian Premier League betting scam. He is said to appear tomorrow.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/parliament-ousts-spain-pm-replaced-by-socialist-leader-141570">Parliament ousts Spain PM, replaced by Socialist leader</a>

Spain's parliament on Friday ousted Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote sparked by fury over his party's corruption woes, with his Socialist arch-rival Pedro Sanchez automatically taking over.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pak-court-allows-ex-foreign-minister-khawaja-asif-to-contest-elections-141559">Pak court allows ex-foreign minister Khawaja Asif to contest elections</a>

Former Pakistani foreign minister Khawaja Asif will be allowed to contest a July 25 general election after the Supreme Court on Friday overturned his disqualification from politics, in a boost to the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party.

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Farmers begin 10-day nationwide strike, say will not sell produce in cities Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike. The farmers said they would not sell their produce in cities.&nbspIn Punjab and Maharashtra, farmers were seen dumping vegetables, fruit, and milk on the streets. CBI summons P Chidambaram to appear on June 6 in INX Media case Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has summoned P Chidambaram to appear on June 6 in connection with INX Media case, reported&nbspnews agency ANI. IPL betting scam: Actor Arbaaz Khan summoned by Thane Police Bollywood actor-filmmaker Arbaaz Khan has been summoned by Thane police in Indian Premier League betting scam. He is said to appear tomorrow. Parliament ousts Spain PM, replaced by Socialist leader Spain's parliament on Friday ousted Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy in a no-confidence vote sparked by fury over his party's corruption woes, with his Socialist arch-rival Pedro Sanchez automatically taking over. Pak court allows ex-foreign minister Khawaja Asif to contest elections Former Pakistani foreign minister Khawaja Asif will be allowed to contest a July 25 general election after the Supreme Court on Friday overturned his disqualification from politics, in a boost to the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party.

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