Former Chennai Super Kings player Suresh Raina has opined that opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is best suited to take over from Mahendra Singh Dhoni once the talismanic captain hangs up his boots. The record IPL-winning captain is 42 this season which means it could very well be his last assignment with the club. &nbsp;

Dhoni guided CSK to a fifth title last season despite suffering from a wobbly knee throughout the tournament. At the time, many wondered if it would be the last swansong for him but the former Indian captain said he would return the next year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The biggest question is who will be their next captain? Even if Dhoni stepped away as captain, he would be there in the dugout as a mental toughness coach or just for his presence. But who does MS Dhoni have his eyes on? I think Ruturaj Gaikwad will be a good option," Raina told Jio Cinema.

While Raina went with an unorthodox choice, most players and experts have opined that CSK might go with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja who was handed the captaincy hat when Dhoni briefly quit the job in 2022.&nbsp;

Raina added he wanted his former teammate to continue playing for another few years, even if he hands over the reins to someone else.&nbsp;

"This year is probably more important for CSK than MS Dhoni because we will see who he is going to select as his deputy and probably say, 'You handle this now. I've been looking after the team since 2008'. He is 42 years old now. I would like to see him play for five more years or at least 2-3 years."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saw-tendulkar-receive-this-kind-of-love-rainas-take-on-csk-captain-dhonis-massive-fandom-before-ipl-2024-699749">Also read |&nbsp;Saw Tendulkar receive this kind of love: Raina’s take on CSK captain Dhoni’s massive fandom before IPL 2024</a>

<h2>CSK's 2024 campaign&nbsp;</h2>

Dhoni has been leading the CSK camp since the inception of IPL in 2008. Under him, Chennai have won as many as five titles, the latest coming in 2023 edition, and have entered the playoffs in every season barring 2020 and 2022.&nbsp;

CSK will open the 2024 campaign as the defending champions against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the MA Chidamabaram Stadium in Chennai. If Dhoni goes the distance this year, he will sign off as the most-successful captain the tournament has witnessed in his history as Rohit Sharma is no more the Mumbai Indians captain.&nbsp;

CSK squad for IPL 2024:&nbsp;MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Avanish Rao Aravelly, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shaik Rasheed, Ajinkya Rahane, Sameer Rizvi, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Mustafizur Rahman, Mukesh Choudhary

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Chennai Super Kings player Suresh Raina has opined that opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is best suited to take over from Mahendra Singh Dhoni once the talismanic captain hangs up his boots.

Former Chennai Super Kings player Suresh Raina has opined that opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is best suited to take over from Mahendra Singh Dhoni once the talismanic captain hangs up his boots. The record IPL-winning captain is 42 this season which means it could very well be his last assignment with the club. Dhoni guided CSK to a fifth title last season despite suffering from a wobbly knee throughout the tournament. At the time, many wondered if it would be the last swansong for him but the former Indian captain said he would return the next year. "The biggest question is who will be their next captain? Even if Dhoni stepped away as captain, he would be there in the dugout as a mental toughness coach or just for his presence. But who does MS Dhoni have his eyes on? I think Ruturaj Gaikwad will be a good option," Raina told Jio Cinema. While Raina went with an unorthodox choice, most players and experts have opined that CSK might go with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja who was handed the captaincy hat when Dhoni briefly quit the job in 2022. Raina added he wanted his former teammate to continue playing for another few years, even if he hands over the reins to someone else. "This year is probably more important for CSK than MS Dhoni because we will see who he is going to select as his deputy and probably say, 'You handle this now. I've been looking after the team since 2008'. He is 42 years old now. I would like to see him play for five more years or at least 2-3 years." Also read | Saw Tendulkar receive this kind of love: Raina’s take on CSK captain Dhoni’s massive fandom before IPL 2024 CSK's 2024 campaign Dhoni has been leading the CSK camp since the inception of IPL in 2008. Under him, Chennai have won as many as five titles, the latest coming in 2023 edition, and have entered the playoffs in every season barring 2020 and 2022. CSK will open the 2024 campaign as the defending champions against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the MA Chidamabaram Stadium in Chennai. If Dhoni goes the distance this year, he will sign off as the most-successful captain the tournament has witnessed in his history as Rohit Sharma is no more the Mumbai Indians captain. CSK squad for IPL 2024: MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Avanish Rao Aravelly, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shaik Rasheed, Ajinkya Rahane, Sameer Rizvi, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Mustafizur Rahman, Mukesh Choudhary (With inputs from agencies)

Suresh Raina names surprise pick to replace MS Dhoni as CSK captain

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ambati Rayudu has wished for Rohit Sharma to join the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army ahead of the IPL 2025 season. At present, all the ten IPL franchises are gearing up for IPL 2024 which gets underway on March 22 in Chennai. Before the season-opener, Rayudu wished for Rohit to become a part of CSK, MI's arch-rivals, from the 2025 season onwards and win titles with them as well. Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the MI skipper for IPL 2024, in Dec 2023, and will feature only as a player in the upcoming season.

MI's move to replace Rohit with Hardik raised a lot of eyebrows. It will be interesting to see how he&nbsp;fits under captain Hardik and if the latter can replicate his success in MI,&nbsp;IPL's joint-most successful franchise. After winning four titles with Rohit-led MI, Hardik moved to the Gujarat Titans (GT) and captained them in 2022 and 2023, leading them to the final in successive editions and winning in 2022.

However, it will be interesting to see how Hardik manages a star-studded MI line-up in IPL 2024. Also, all eyes will be on Rohit who will only feature as a batter this time around. Meanwhile, Rayudu -- who has won the IPL both under MI and CSK -- feels Rohit should move to Chennai in the coming years and increase his trophy count. Here's why:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-delhi-capitals-coach-ricky-ponting-offers-clarity-on-rishabh-pants-role-in-upcoming-season-698857">IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting offers clarity on Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season</a>

<h2>'Rohit has earned the right to take that call'</h2>

"I want to see him play for CSK in the near future. He has played so long for Mumbai Indians. It would be nice if he can play for CSK and win there as well. That's (captaincy at CSK) upon him. Rohit has earned the right to take that call. It's his call on whether or not he wants to lead or not," Rayudu told News24 while also mentioning that MI must have informed Rohit of the captaincy change.

At present, there are no talks of Rohit willing to make a move from MI. The IPL 2024 season will give a clear picture of how he still fits into MI's scheme of things, without the leadership tag. He has won the IPL six times, five as MI captain. Hence, he remains a big name in their setup. Nonetheless, if things aren't quite right for him in the dugout, he might make a move elsewhere (which will certainly grab a lot of eyeballs). If he replaces Dhoni as CSK captain going ahead, it will surely be a big development in the IPL and add a new chapter in the MI-CSK rivalry.&nbsp;

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ambati Rayudu has wished for Rohit Sharma to join the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army ahead of the IPL 2025 season. At present, all the ten IPL franchises are gearing up for IPL 2024 which gets underway on March 22 in Chennai.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ambati Rayudu has wished for Rohit Sharma to join the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army ahead of the IPL 2025 season. At present, all the ten IPL franchises are gearing up for IPL 2024 which gets underway on March 22 in Chennai. Before the season-opener, Rayudu wished for Rohit to become a part of CSK, MI's arch-rivals, from the 2025 season onwards and win titles with them as well. Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the MI skipper for IPL 2024, in Dec 2023, and will feature only as a player in the upcoming season. MI's move to replace Rohit with Hardik raised a lot of eyebrows. It will be interesting to see how he fits under captain Hardik and if the latter can replicate his success in MI, IPL's joint-most successful franchise. After winning four titles with Rohit-led MI, Hardik moved to the Gujarat Titans (GT) and captained them in 2022 and 2023, leading them to the final in successive editions and winning in 2022. However, it will be interesting to see how Hardik manages a star-studded MI line-up in IPL 2024. Also, all eyes will be on Rohit who will only feature as a batter this time around. Meanwhile, Rayudu -- who has won the IPL both under MI and CSK -- feels Rohit should move to Chennai in the coming years and increase his trophy count. Here's why: Also read: IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting offers clarity on Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season 'Rohit has earned the right to take that call' "I want to see him play for CSK in the near future. He has played so long for Mumbai Indians. It would be nice if he can play for CSK and win there as well. That's (captaincy at CSK) upon him. Rohit has earned the right to take that call. It's his call on whether or not he wants to lead or not," Rayudu told News24 while also mentioning that MI must have informed Rohit of the captaincy change. At present, there are no talks of Rohit willing to make a move from MI. The IPL 2024 season will give a clear picture of how he still fits into MI's scheme of things, without the leadership tag. He has won the IPL six times, five as MI captain. Hence, he remains a big name in their setup. Nonetheless, if things aren't quite right for him in the dugout, he might make a move elsewhere (which will certainly grab a lot of eyeballs). If he replaces Dhoni as CSK captain going ahead, it will surely be a big development in the IPL and add a new chapter in the MI-CSK rivalry.

IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu wants Rohit Sharma to join MS Dhoni's CSK in 2025 season! Here's why

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO&nbsp;Kasi Viswanathan has said MS Dhoni will fulfil his promise to play in the 2024 season after the five-time champions retained him during the retention window that expired on Sunday (Nov 26).&nbsp;

The former Indian skipper has been nursing a wobbly knee for some time and played through the 2023 title-winning season with pain.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"If our leader has given a word, he has never gone back. He already told what he was planning to do in that interview," Viswanathan said in a video shared by CSK.

"I am sure that knowing MS, he will always do what he has committed to do. He is quite fit. Thalaivan is thalaivan (our leader is our leader)," he added.&nbsp;

Dhoni underwent knee surgery at Mumbai's Kokilaben Hospital&nbsp;after the end of the last IPL season but speculations remained that he might skip next edition.&nbsp;

However, CSK retaining him sent a message to the fans that the prized player was set to return for one final hurrah.&nbsp;

<h2>Dhoni provides an update</h2>

Last month, during a promotional event, Dhoni shared an update on his knee by stating:&nbsp; “Knee has survived the operation, going through the rehab patch, the doctor told me you would feel much better by November. But no problem in day-to-day routine."

"A lot depends on the body, I have 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side, it's not easy for me but that's a gift. The way they've shown their love and affection, I think that's something I need to do for them," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/knee-has-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-provides-update-on-ipl-2024-participation-652191">Also read |&nbsp;'Knee has...,' CSK skipper MS Dhoni provides update on IPL 2024 participation</a>

Dhoni is one of the most successful skippers in IPL, having won the title five times - all with Chennai Super Kings in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023. CSK's five titles under Dhoni are joint most along with Mumbai Indians who won it under current India skipper Rohit Sharma.

If Dhoni turns up for the 2024 edition, it will be his 17th IPL season, having been around since the league's inception

Here is the&nbsp;list of players released by CSK ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction –

<ul>
	<li>Ambati Rayudu (now retired)</li>
	<li>Ben Stokes</li>
	<li>Dwaine Pretorius</li>
	<li>Sisanda Magala</li>
	<li>Bhagath Verma</li>
	<li>Akash Singh</li>
	<li>Subhranshu Senapati</li>
	<li>Kyle Jamieson</li>
</ul>

List of players retained by CSK ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction -

<ul>
	<li>MS Dhoni (wk)(c)</li>
	<li>Ruturaj Gaikwad</li>
	<li>Devon Conway</li>
	<li>Deepak Chahar</li>
	<li>Tushar Deshpande</li>
	<li>Maheesh Theekshana</li>
	<li>Simranjeet Singh</li>
	<li>Matheesha Pathirana</li>
	<li>Prashant Solanki</li>
	<li>Mitchell Santner</li>
	<li>Rajvardhan Hangargekar</li>
	<li>Ravindra Jadeja</li>
	<li>Moeen Ali</li>
	<li>Shivam Dube</li>
	<li>Ajinkya Rahane</li>
	<li>Nishant Sindhu</li>
	<li>Shaik Rasheed</li>
	<li>Ajay Mandal</li>
</ul>

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has said MS Dhoni will fulfil his promise to play in the 2024 season after the five-time champions retained him during the retention window that expired on Sunday (Nov 26).

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan has said MS Dhoni will fulfil his promise to play in the 2024 season after the five-time champions retained him during the retention window that expired on Sunday (Nov 26). The former Indian skipper has been nursing a wobbly knee for some time and played through the 2023 title-winning season with pain. "If our leader has given a word, he has never gone back. He already told what he was planning to do in that interview," Viswanathan said in a video shared by CSK. "I am sure that knowing MS, he will always do what he has committed to do. He is quite fit. Thalaivan is thalaivan (our leader is our leader)," he added. Dhoni underwent knee surgery at Mumbai's Kokilaben Hospital after the end of the last IPL season but speculations remained that he might skip next edition. However, CSK retaining him sent a message to the fans that the prized player was set to return for one final hurrah. Dhoni provides an update Last month, during a promotional event, Dhoni shared an update on his knee by stating: “Knee has survived the operation, going through the rehab patch, the doctor told me you would feel much better by November. But no problem in day-to-day routine." "A lot depends on the body, I have 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side, it's not easy for me but that's a gift. The way they've shown their love and affection, I think that's something I need to do for them," he added. Also read | 'Knee has...,' CSK skipper MS Dhoni provides update on IPL 2024 participation Dhoni is one of the most successful skippers in IPL, having won the title five times - all with Chennai Super Kings in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023. CSK's five titles under Dhoni are joint most along with Mumbai Indians who won it under current India skipper Rohit Sharma. If Dhoni turns up for the 2024 edition, it will be his 17th IPL season, having been around since the league's inception Here is the list of players released by CSK ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction – Ambati Rayudu (now retired) Ben Stokes Dwaine Pretorius Sisanda Magala Bhagath Verma Akash Singh Subhranshu Senapati Kyle Jamieson List of players retained by CSK ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction - MS Dhoni (wk)(c) Ruturaj Gaikwad Devon Conway Deepak Chahar Tushar Deshpande Maheesh Theekshana Simranjeet Singh Matheesha Pathirana Prashant Solanki Mitchell Santner Rajvardhan Hangargekar Ravindra Jadeja Moeen Ali Shivam Dube Ajinkya Rahane Nishant Sindhu Shaik Rasheed Ajay Mandal (With inputs from agencies)

'He already told...': CSK CEO on MS Dhoni turning up for 2024 season

BCCI is set to host the inaugural edition of the Women's IPL in early 2023. While the itinerary is being readied, it is believed that the first-ever season will kick off in India in March next year, soon after the conclusion of the T20 Women's World Cup and right before the men's IPL. For quite some time, the Women's IPL has been long awaited and the historic tournament is set to get underway next year.&nbsp;

As per a report in Cricbuzz, BCCI is considering a five-team Women's IPL. Unlike in the men's competition, each team will reportedly field as many as five overseas players. Out of the five, four must be from&nbsp;ICC Full Member Nations whereas the remaining one has to be from an Associate Nation.&nbsp;

In addition, BCCI is in talks between two options for selling the IPL franchises: zone wise-North (Dharamsala/Jammu), South (Kochi/Vizag), Central (Indore/Nagpur/Raipur), East (Ranchi/Cuttack), North East (Guwahati) and West (Pune/Rajkot)-with matches to take place at non-IPL venues or existing city-wise as is the case with the men's IPL (Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata-with matches held at IPL venues). Nonetheless, nothing is final in this regard and a final decision will be taken by the IPL chairperson (with the BCCI's current treasurer Arun Dhumal set to take over the post)&nbsp;and the board office bearers in due course of time.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shafali-verma-and-deepti-sharma-take-india-to-womens-asia-cup-final-with-big-win-over-thailand-524993">Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma take India to Women's Asia Cup final with big win over Thailand</a>

As per reports, a caravan-style itinerary is also being considered for the inaugural edition of the Women's IPL. It means one could see a bunch of matches taking place at a venue before the entire competition will shift to a different venue. IPL 2021 was staged in a similar format, which saw matches being held in Mumbai and Chennai first before the tournament shifted to Delhi and Ahmedabad (prior to the second wave of the Covid-19 virus postponing the tournament and later shifting&nbsp;it entirely to the UAE, in late 2021).&nbsp;

Talking about the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian eves, they have been on a roll in 2022. After missing out on a semi-final spot in the 2022 Women's World Cup by a whisker, India won a silver medal at the CWG'2022 edition and have now booked a place in the Asia Cup, beating Thailand by 74 runs in the first semi-final on Thursday (October 13). They will now face Sri Lanka in the final, on Saturday (October 15).

BCCI is set to host the inaugural edition of the Women's IPL in early 2023. While the itinerary is being readied, it is believed that the first-ever season will kick off in India in March next year, soon after the conclusion of the T20 Women's World Cup and right before the men's IPL.

BCCI is set to host the inaugural edition of the Women's IPL in early 2023. While the itinerary is being readied, it is believed that the first-ever season will kick off in India in March next year, soon after the conclusion of the T20 Women's World Cup and right before the men's IPL. For quite some time, the Women's IPL has been long awaited and the historic tournament is set to get underway next year. As per a report in Cricbuzz, BCCI is considering a five-team Women's IPL. Unlike in the men's competition, each team will reportedly field as many as five overseas players. Out of the five, four must be from ICC Full Member Nations whereas the remaining one has to be from an Associate Nation. In addition, BCCI is in talks between two options for selling the IPL franchises: zone wise-North (Dharamsala/Jammu), South (Kochi/Vizag), Central (Indore/Nagpur/Raipur), East (Ranchi/Cuttack), North East (Guwahati) and West (Pune/Rajkot)-with matches to take place at non-IPL venues or existing city-wise as is the case with the men's IPL (Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata-with matches held at IPL venues). Nonetheless, nothing is final in this regard and a final decision will be taken by the IPL chairperson (with the BCCI's current treasurer Arun Dhumal set to take over the post) and the board office bearers in due course of time. ALSO READ | Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma take India to Women's Asia Cup final with big win over Thailand As per reports, a caravan-style itinerary is also being considered for the inaugural edition of the Women's IPL. It means one could see a bunch of matches taking place at a venue before the entire competition will shift to a different venue. IPL 2021 was staged in a similar format, which saw matches being held in Mumbai and Chennai first before the tournament shifted to Delhi and Ahmedabad (prior to the second wave of the Covid-19 virus postponing the tournament and later shifting it entirely to the UAE, in late 2021). Talking about the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian eves, they have been on a roll in 2022. After missing out on a semi-final spot in the 2022 Women's World Cup by a whisker, India won a silver medal at the CWG'2022 edition and have now booked a place in the Asia Cup, beating Thailand by 74 runs in the first semi-final on Thursday (October 13). They will now face Sri Lanka in the final, on Saturday (October 15).

BCCI mulling five-team Women's IPL, inaugural season to kick off in March 2023

While many youngsters have performed in IPL 2022 so far, 36-year-old Dinesh Karthik has surely set the stage on fire with his fireworks with the bat for the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).&nbsp;

Batting lower down the order, DK has played the rescue act on several occasions for the RCB camp and even finished games in style. So far, he has had scores of&nbsp;32* (14), 14* (7), 44* (23), 7* (2), 34 (14) and 66* (34). Thus, the right-hander has been dismissed only once in the ongoing 15th season and is making a strong claim to be in the scheme of things for Team India with regard to this year's T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia.

Seeing his miraculous form, former RCB superstar AB de Villiers couldn't help but lavish huge praise on DK. Before DK, ABD had fulfilled the role of a finisher for Bengaluru over the years and feels ecstatic seeing Karthik take over the mantle in style. "The form he is at this moment and he has already won RCB 2-3 games. He looks like he is in the form of his life. I don't know where that comes from because he hasn't played a lot of cricket. But man, he looks in good form and he plays around the wicket 360 degrees. He almost makes me feel like I want to go back and play some cricket again, watching him play. He gets me excited, plays under pressure in the middle order and he's got a lot of experience and if he keeps his form up there is a good chance that RCB are going a long way up," de Villiers told&nbsp;VUSport Streaming.

<section>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-bags-golden-duck-against-lsg-as-dushmantha-chameera-picks-2-wickets-in-2-balls-472209">WATCH: Virat Kohli bags Golden Duck against LSG as Dushmantha Chameera picks 2 wickets in 2 balls</a>

“I was incredibly surprised and I didn't expect it. I have always known that he is a very capable player, a nitty-gritty kind of a guy. He likes the high-pressure situations and he's a busy player at the wicket. But he hasn't played a lot of cricket. The last time I saw him before IPL he was commentating in the UK (during WTC final, India tour of England and The Hundred). He wasn't playing a lot of domestic cricket and I thought he is possibly at the end of his career finishing. But he surprised us all I think with the intent and energy," de Villiers added.

<section>Meanwhile, Karthik has made it clear that while he wants to do well for RCB, his bigger goal is getting back to the Indian team in order to represent the Men in Blue in the forthcoming T20 WC. After his match-winning knock versus Delhi Capitals (DC), on Saturday (April 16), he told at the post-match presentation, "I must admit that I have a bigger goal. I have been working really hard. My aim is to do something special for the country. This is part of my journey. I have been trying everything to be a part of the Indian team."</section>
</section>

While many youngsters have performed in IPL 2022 so far, 36-year-old Dinesh Karthik has surely set the stage on fire with his fireworks with the bat for the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

While many youngsters have performed in IPL 2022 so far, 36-year-old Dinesh Karthik has surely set the stage on fire with his fireworks with the bat for the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Batting lower down the order, DK has played the rescue act on several occasions for the RCB camp and even finished games in style. So far, he has had scores of 32* (14), 14* (7), 44* (23), 7* (2), 34 (14) and 66* (34). Thus, the right-hander has been dismissed only once in the ongoing 15th season and is making a strong claim to be in the scheme of things for Team India with regard to this year's T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia. Seeing his miraculous form, former RCB superstar AB de Villiers couldn't help but lavish huge praise on DK. Before DK, ABD had fulfilled the role of a finisher for Bengaluru over the years and feels ecstatic seeing Karthik take over the mantle in style. "The form he is at this moment and he has already won RCB 2-3 games. He looks like he is in the form of his life. I don't know where that comes from because he hasn't played a lot of cricket. But man, he looks in good form and he plays around the wicket 360 degrees. He almost makes me feel like I want to go back and play some cricket again, watching him play. He gets me excited, plays under pressure in the middle order and he's got a lot of experience and if he keeps his form up there is a good chance that RCB are going a long way up," de Villiers told VUSport Streaming. ALSO READ | WATCH: Virat Kohli bags Golden Duck against LSG as Dushmantha Chameera picks 2 wickets in 2 balls “I was incredibly surprised and I didn't expect it. I have always known that he is a very capable player, a nitty-gritty kind of a guy. He likes the high-pressure situations and he's a busy player at the wicket. But he hasn't played a lot of cricket. The last time I saw him before IPL he was commentating in the UK (during WTC final, India tour of England and The Hundred). He wasn't playing a lot of domestic cricket and I thought he is possibly at the end of his career finishing. But he surprised us all I think with the intent and energy," de Villiers added. Meanwhile, Karthik has made it clear that while he wants to do well for RCB, his bigger goal is getting back to the Indian team in order to represent the Men in Blue in the forthcoming T20 WC. After his match-winning knock versus Delhi Capitals (DC), on Saturday (April 16), he told at the post-match presentation, "I must admit that I have a bigger goal. I have been working really hard. My aim is to do something special for the country. This is part of my journey. I have been trying everything to be a part of the Indian team."

Makes me feel like I want to go back and play: AB de Villiers lavishes praise on RCB sensation Dinesh Karthik

Mumbai Indians (MI) haven't been at their dominant best in IPL 2021. While they continue to remain alive in the race for the fourth playoffs spot, the Rohit Sharma-led MI camp have to pull up their socks if they wish to retain the trophy for the third time in a row.

One of the main reasons for MI not being in rollicking form is due to their star performers not being upto the mark, injury concerns and mainly their batsmen's inability to adapt to the slow and tricky surfaces in the UAE. In addition, Hardik Pandya's ordinary season, coupled with him not bowling at all in IPL 14, has added to MI's woes. Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain and Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has now slammed MI all-rounder Hardik for not choosing to bowl even in the second and final UAE leg despite the T20 World Cup set to commence soon after IPL.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-as-mi-crush-rr-heres-how-mumbai-or-kkr-can-grab-the-4th-spot-in-ipl-2021-playoffs-418570">EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, Gambhir stated, "The biggest upset in this batting lineup is Hardik Pandya. He hasn't played any cricket, he is just a one-format player for me now. He only plays white-ball cricket and hasn't delivered this year and he's got into the T20 World Cup side when he hasn't bowled either. So that's a huge surprise."

"Selectors will probably have to answer this whether he's actually going to bowl four overs in the World Cup and if he decides to do that, does he have those overs under him? If he decides to bowl in the World Cup he has to start bowling from now on, Whether it's one or two overs per game so that he can... deliver during the World Cup where India will be looking to win. But if he doesn't bowl during the World Cup, then it's actually pretty difficult for me to put him into the playing XI. If he doesn't bowl I don't think he can be a part of India's best playing XI," the ex-KKR skipper added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mumbai-indians-beat-rajasthan-royals-by-8-wickets-to-keep-playoffs-hopes-alive-418472">IPL 2021: Mumbai Indians beat Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets to keep playoffs hopes alive</a>

Hardik hasn't been preferred in the longest format for long, in a bid to manage his workload and since he isn't willing to bowl long spells at the moment. However, he was expected to bowl some overs for the MI franchise in the final leg of IPL 14 to be able to prepare his body and mind for contributing with the ball for the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue in the upcoming T20 WC, in the UAE from October 17.

Gambhir feels Hardik might not even find a place in India's XI if he remains a specialist batsman and doesn't play as an all-rounder. The 27-year-old, who was last seen bowling in the Sri Lanka series in July, will be looking forward to chip in with few overs in MI's last league stage encounter, versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Friday (October 8).

Mumbai Indians (MI) haven't been at their dominant best in IPL 2021. While they continue to remain alive in the race for the fourth playoffs spot, the Rohit Sharma-led MI camp have to pull up their socks if they wish to retain the trophy for the third time in a row.

Mumbai Indians (MI) haven't been at their dominant best in IPL 2021. While they continue to remain alive in the race for the fourth playoffs spot, the Rohit Sharma-led MI camp have to pull up their socks if they wish to retain the trophy for the third time in a row. One of the main reasons for MI not being in rollicking form is due to their star performers not being upto the mark, injury concerns and mainly their batsmen's inability to adapt to the slow and tricky surfaces in the UAE. In addition, Hardik Pandya's ordinary season, coupled with him not bowling at all in IPL 14, has added to MI's woes. Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain and Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has now slammed MI all-rounder Hardik for not choosing to bowl even in the second and final UAE leg despite the T20 World Cup set to commence soon after IPL. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, Gambhir stated, "The biggest upset in this batting lineup is Hardik Pandya. He hasn't played any cricket, he is just a one-format player for me now. He only plays white-ball cricket and hasn't delivered this year and he's got into the T20 World Cup side when he hasn't bowled either. So that's a huge surprise." "Selectors will probably have to answer this whether he's actually going to bowl four overs in the World Cup and if he decides to do that, does he have those overs under him? If he decides to bowl in the World Cup he has to start bowling from now on, Whether it's one or two overs per game so that he can... deliver during the World Cup where India will be looking to win. But if he doesn't bowl during the World Cup, then it's actually pretty difficult for me to put him into the playing XI. If he doesn't bowl I don't think he can be a part of India's best playing XI," the ex-KKR skipper added. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Mumbai Indians beat Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets to keep playoffs hopes alive Hardik hasn't been preferred in the longest format for long, in a bid to manage his workload and since he isn't willing to bowl long spells at the moment. However, he was expected to bowl some overs for the MI franchise in the final leg of IPL 14 to be able to prepare his body and mind for contributing with the ball for the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue in the upcoming T20 WC, in the UAE from October 17. Gambhir feels Hardik might not even find a place in India's XI if he remains a specialist batsman and doesn't play as an all-rounder. The 27-year-old, who was last seen bowling in the Sri Lanka series in July, will be looking forward to chip in with few overs in MI's last league stage encounter, versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Friday (October 8).

'Don't think he can...' - Gautam Gambhir slams MI's Hardik Pandya for not bowling in IPL 2021 ahead of T20 WC

England will be well prepared for the Twenty20 World Cup because half of the squad are getting used to conditions in the United Arab Emirates by playing in the Indian Premier League, bowler Tymal Mills said.

The IPL was suspended near its halfway stage in May as India grappled with a surge of COVID-19 cases and two franchises reported several infections.

The remainder of the season was then shifted to the UAE, which also hosts the World Cup in October-November, and Oman.

"One of our advantages is that we`ve got half the squad playing in the IPL at the moment," Mills, who was recalled to the squad for the first time since February 2017, told reporters on Monday.

"I`m sure we`ll come out of that with a bunch of information and ... we`ll be well-prepped and well-versed by the time we get together. I`m sure we`ll be full of confidence and back ourselves to beat any team.

"We`ve got a very strong, very adaptable squad and most of the guys have played a lot of cricket in that area, whether it`s IPL, Pakistan Super League or internationally."

England face defending champions West Indies in their opening match on Oct. 23 in Dubai.

England will be well prepared for the Twenty20 World Cup because half of the squad are getting used to conditions in the United Arab Emirates by playing in the Indian Premier League, bowler Tymal Mills said.

England will be well prepared for the Twenty20 World Cup because half of the squad are getting used to conditions in the United Arab Emirates by playing in the Indian Premier League, bowler Tymal Mills said. The IPL was suspended near its halfway stage in May as India grappled with a surge of COVID-19 cases and two franchises reported several infections. The remainder of the season was then shifted to the UAE, which also hosts the World Cup in October-November, and Oman. "One of our advantages is that we`ve got half the squad playing in the IPL at the moment," Mills, who was recalled to the squad for the first time since February 2017, told reporters on Monday. "I`m sure we`ll come out of that with a bunch of information and ... we`ll be well-prepped and well-versed by the time we get together. I`m sure we`ll be full of confidence and back ourselves to beat any team. "We`ve got a very strong, very adaptable squad and most of the guys have played a lot of cricket in that area, whether it`s IPL, Pakistan Super League or internationally." England face defending champions West Indies in their opening match on Oct. 23 in Dubai.

IPL will help England's T20 World Cup charge, says recalled bowler Tymal Mills

Kumar Sangakkara doesn't believe in blame game as both success and failure are collective in nature, Rajasthan Royals Team Director said after another disappointing performance from his team which seriously dented their IPL play-off hopes.

Royals after the Delhi Capitals game put up another shoddy batting performance that saw Royal Challengers Bangalore cantered to victory. Royals are now seventh in the eight-team table.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-reacts-sharply-after-rumours-of-him-complaining-against-virat-kohli-to-the-bcci-goes-viral-417047">R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli, to the BCCI, goes viral</a>

"We don't play the blame game in our franchise. We win together, we lose together. We haven't done well enough, haven't been smart enough with our batting and we all know that. The players know it. So, we'll try to keep things simple, focus on training and how we plan to execute what we've spoken about," Sangakarra said at the post-match media conference.

"We always keep things simple. There's a lot of pressure on players that they put on themselves. In the game itself, there's a lot of pressure," Sangakkara added.

For Sangakkara, his job is to guide the team rather than putting more burden on them.

"My job is not to add to that but guide them (on) how to deal with it and come up with their best performances," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-srh-vs-csk-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-chennai-super-kings-417041">IPL 2021, SRH vs CSK, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings?</a>

To manage highs and lows require different perspective feels Sangakkara.

"There's many ways that you manage the highs of wins and disappointments of a loss and be able to keep yourself calm and focus on what needs to be done.

"At times like this, it's very easy to be dejected and break up into little groups where murmurings can start but our group has held together really well," added the Sri Lankan batting great.

The former Sri Lankan wicket-keeper also praised skipper Sanju Samson, saying he will be selected in the national team for a longer run.

"Yeah, we do have one-on-one chats on a lot of things. And when we do talk cricket, India aspirations come at a time when the IPL is over. And our chats are very-much IPL-focused. Not just his (Samson's) batting but about captaincy, about the team and how we are playing," Sangakkara added.

Samson, who has scored 452 runs this season, is the leading run-getter for his franchise.

"He (Samson) is a very good player, a very special player. He has done exceptionally well for us this season. And I am sure that he has aspirations to play for India and, at some point, I think he will be selected for a longer run. He is good and ready at any-time that he is picked,? Sangakkara signed off.&nbsp;

Kumar Sangakkara doesn't believe in blame game as both success and failure are collective in nature, Rajasthan Royals Team Director said after another disappointing performance from his team which seriously dented their IPL play-off hopes.

Kumar Sangakkara doesn't believe in blame game as both success and failure are collective in nature, Rajasthan Royals Team Director said after another disappointing performance from his team which seriously dented their IPL play-off hopes. Royals after the Delhi Capitals game put up another shoddy batting performance that saw Royal Challengers Bangalore cantered to victory. Royals are now seventh in the eight-team table. ALSO READ | R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli, to the BCCI, goes viral "We don't play the blame game in our franchise. We win together, we lose together. We haven't done well enough, haven't been smart enough with our batting and we all know that. The players know it. So, we'll try to keep things simple, focus on training and how we plan to execute what we've spoken about," Sangakarra said at the post-match media conference. "We always keep things simple. There's a lot of pressure on players that they put on themselves. In the game itself, there's a lot of pressure," Sangakkara added. For Sangakkara, his job is to guide the team rather than putting more burden on them. "My job is not to add to that but guide them (on) how to deal with it and come up with their best performances," he said. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, SRH vs CSK, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings? To manage highs and lows require different perspective feels Sangakkara. "There's many ways that you manage the highs of wins and disappointments of a loss and be able to keep yourself calm and focus on what needs to be done. "At times like this, it's very easy to be dejected and break up into little groups where murmurings can start but our group has held together really well," added the Sri Lankan batting great. The former Sri Lankan wicket-keeper also praised skipper Sanju Samson, saying he will be selected in the national team for a longer run. "Yeah, we do have one-on-one chats on a lot of things. And when we do talk cricket, India aspirations come at a time when the IPL is over. And our chats are very-much IPL-focused. Not just his (Samson's) batting but about captaincy, about the team and how we are playing," Sangakkara added. Samson, who has scored 452 runs this season, is the leading run-getter for his franchise. "He (Samson) is a very good player, a very special player. He has done exceptionally well for us this season. And I am sure that he has aspirations to play for India and, at some point, I think he will be selected for a longer run. He is good and ready at any-time that he is picked,? Sangakkara signed off.

'We don't play blame game in our franchise,' says Rajasthan Royals Team Director Kumar Sangakkara

KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) continue to remain inconsistent in the second and final leg of IPL 2021. On Tuesday (September 28), the one-time runners-up lost their face-off versus defending champions and five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) by six wickets and remain in the bottom-half, i.e. the sixth position, post match 42.

Being asked to bat first, in Dubai, Punjab batters didn't make the most of their starts as Rahul departed for 22-ball 21 whereas the likes of Mandeep Singh (15) and Chris Gayle (1) couldn't do much. Aiden Markram's 42 and Deepak Hooda's 28 propelled PBKS to 135-6 before MI's Saurabh Tiwary (45) and Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 40 took them to a comfortable win, with an over to spare.

As Punjab continue to struggle in the bottom-half, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag has schooled Rahul regarding his approach with the bat. The right-hander has 422 runs in 10 innings, at an average of 52.75 and strike-rate of over 130. Sehwag, however, feels he should play more naturally and attack from the word go.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-krunal-pandya-get-thumbs-up-from-twitterati-for-spirit-of-cricket-act-vs-pbks-kl-rahul-416757">Watch: Rohit Sharma, Krunal Pandya get thumbs-up from Twitterati for 'spirit of cricket' act vs PBKS' KL Rahul</a>

Talking on Cricbuzz live, he said "It's the prior mindset that dictates how you approach your innings. Someone like Rohit Sharma plays in the same way because he reacts according to the delivery. But someone like KL Rahul comes to bat with a prior plan: to play cautiously or attack from the very first delivery."

Sehwag went onto say,&nbsp;"Someone like Rahul should play always his natural game, given the fact that has so many shots. If he plays his natural game, then he will always score more runs in fewer deliveries because he is blessed with many shots against the pacers and spinners."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-why-does-he-have-to-be-that-guy-again-asks-shane-warne-on-r-ashwin-eoin-morgan-altercation-416770">IPL 2021: Why does he have to be that guy again, asks Shane Warne on R Ashwin-Eoin Morgan altercation</a>

Punjab will now lock horns with Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday (October 1) in a bid to keep their playoffs hopes alive in the ongoing edition in the UAE. It will be interesting to see how Rahul goes about his business in the middle and whether or not he plays his natural game, as suggested by Sehwag.

KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) continue to remain inconsistent in the second and final leg of IPL 2021. On Tuesday (September 28), the one-time runners-up lost their face-off versus defending champions and five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) by six wickets and remain in the bottom-half, i.

KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) continue to remain inconsistent in the second and final leg of IPL 2021. On Tuesday (September 28), the one-time runners-up lost their face-off versus defending champions and five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) by six wickets and remain in the bottom-half, i.e. the sixth position, post match 42. Being asked to bat first, in Dubai, Punjab batters didn't make the most of their starts as Rahul departed for 22-ball 21 whereas the likes of Mandeep Singh (15) and Chris Gayle (1) couldn't do much. Aiden Markram's 42 and Deepak Hooda's 28 propelled PBKS to 135-6 before MI's Saurabh Tiwary (45) and Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 40 took them to a comfortable win, with an over to spare. As Punjab continue to struggle in the bottom-half, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag has schooled Rahul regarding his approach with the bat. The right-hander has 422 runs in 10 innings, at an average of 52.75 and strike-rate of over 130. Sehwag, however, feels he should play more naturally and attack from the word go. ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma, Krunal Pandya get thumbs-up from Twitterati for 'spirit of cricket' act vs PBKS' KL Rahul Talking on Cricbuzz live, he said "It's the prior mindset that dictates how you approach your innings. Someone like Rohit Sharma plays in the same way because he reacts according to the delivery. But someone like KL Rahul comes to bat with a prior plan: to play cautiously or attack from the very first delivery." Sehwag went onto say, "Someone like Rahul should play always his natural game, given the fact that has so many shots. If he plays his natural game, then he will always score more runs in fewer deliveries because he is blessed with many shots against the pacers and spinners." ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Why does he have to be that guy again, asks Shane Warne on R Ashwin-Eoin Morgan altercation Punjab will now lock horns with Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday (October 1) in a bid to keep their playoffs hopes alive in the ongoing edition in the UAE. It will be interesting to see how Rahul goes about his business in the middle and whether or not he plays his natural game, as suggested by Sehwag.

IPL 2021: Virender Sehwag schools PBKS skipper KL Rahul on his batting after MI clash

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has clarified that there have been no requests from the Indian cricket board (BCCI) to tweak the schedule of the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-not-impressed-with-wv-ramans-sacking-reports-386563" hreflang="en">Cricket- BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly not impressed with WV Raman's sacking: Reports</a>

According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI has held talks with the ECB to tweak the five-Test series and carve out a window for IPL 2021, which had to be postponed indefinitely after 29 matches as multiple COVID-19 cases emerged within the players and staff in the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

“BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-Test series. Details of those discussions aren’t public yet. But in whichever manner the ECB agrees to tweak the Test series, they will want the IPL in England because the counties can earn from it. There’ll be a good chance of a quid pro quo,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

“Only if costs are escalating to a point where it starts affecting stakeholders, the BCCI will consider the UAE as the second option for the IPL. On that front, we aren’t even discounting the idea of hosting the IPL in Sri Lanka,” the sources added.

However, a spokesman for the English cricket board told TOI that they did not receive any such requests.&nbsp;

"We talk to the BCCI on a regular basis about a wide range of issues especially as we address the challenges of Covid-19, but have had no official request to change dates and are continuing to plan for the five Test series as is scheduled."

The five-match Test series will commence on August 4 and the venues will be Nottingham, Lord's, Leeds, Oval and Old Trafford. The series will take place after World Test Championship Finals between India and New Zealand that will be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has clarified that there have been no requests from the Indian cricket board (BCCI) to tweak the schedule of the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England.

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has clarified that there have been no requests from the Indian cricket board (BCCI) to tweak the schedule of the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England. ALSO READ: Cricket- BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly not impressed with WV Raman's sacking: Reports According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI has held talks with the ECB to tweak the five-Test series and carve out a window for IPL 2021, which had to be postponed indefinitely after 29 matches as multiple COVID-19 cases emerged within the players and staff in the bio-secure bubble. “BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-Test series. Details of those discussions aren’t public yet. But in whichever manner the ECB agrees to tweak the Test series, they will want the IPL in England because the counties can earn from it. There’ll be a good chance of a quid pro quo,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India. “Only if costs are escalating to a point where it starts affecting stakeholders, the BCCI will consider the UAE as the second option for the IPL. On that front, we aren’t even discounting the idea of hosting the IPL in Sri Lanka,” the sources added. However, a spokesman for the English cricket board told TOI that they did not receive any such requests. "We talk to the BCCI on a regular basis about a wide range of issues especially as we address the challenges of Covid-19, but have had no official request to change dates and are continuing to plan for the five Test series as is scheduled." The five-match Test series will commence on August 4 and the venues will be Nottingham, Lord's, Leeds, Oval and Old Trafford. The series will take place after World Test Championship Finals between India and New Zealand that will be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Cricket: 'Have had no official request from BCCI to change dates', clarifies ECB

After Rahul Dravid's never-seen-before ‘angry’ avatar, Venkatesh Prasad's new boyband the "Venkaboys" has taken the internet by storm. In the advertisement, Venkatesh Prasad was seen performing on a song along with Manindar Singh, Javagal Srinath and Saba Karim.&nbsp;

Featuring in an ad for a Bengaluru-based credit card bill payment platform where actor Jim Sarbh is seen comparing the rewards offered by the platform to the boyband featuring "your favourite cricketer". In the advertisement, the "Venkaboys" can be seen singing that "In the 90s, we&nbsp;were the real OGs."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
" Meet the Venkaboys " <a href="https://t.co/ELkcpb9sxt">pic.twitter.com/ELkcpb9sxt</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1388441829360627714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma took to Twitter and shared the video and wrote: "From listening to you coach me on the field, to now listening to you sing while I am on my way to the stadium. Venky bhai....it's been a journey."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
From listening to you coach me on the field, to now listening to you sing while I am on my way to the stadium. Venky bhai....it's been a journey. <a href="https://t.co/ubgORUe6Me">pic.twitter.com/ubgORUe6Me</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1388447972447318018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The latest ad by the CRED had some interesting Twitter reactions. Check out:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Whoever is in charge of this ad campaign deserves awards! <a href="https://t.co/usOClJxrqL">https://t.co/usOClJxrqL</a>
— Soumya Inavilli (@SInavilli) <a href="https://twitter.com/SInavilli/status/1388451357066031106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Wow😂 
Firstu it was <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulDravid</a> and nowwu it is <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@venkateshprasad</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JavagalSrinath?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JavagalSrinath</a> <a href="https://t.co/P43VNL0Ki6">https://t.co/P43VNL0Ki6</a>
— Amarnath ಬಿಎಂ (@amarnath1696) <a href="https://twitter.com/amarnath1696/status/1388452410406756354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This made me happy 😆👌👌 <a href="https://t.co/74ed4u5TSn">https://t.co/74ed4u5TSn</a>
— Bargi ☮️ (@ignorantnomad) <a href="https://twitter.com/ignorantnomad/status/1388453024775892998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

After Rahul Dravid's never-seen-before ‘angry’ avatar, Venkatesh Prasad's new boyband the "Venkaboys" has taken the internet by storm. In the advertisement, Venkatesh Prasad was seen performing on a song along with Manindar Singh, Javagal Srinath and Saba Karim.

After Rahul Dravid's never-seen-before ‘angry’ avatar, Venkatesh Prasad's new boyband the "Venkaboys" has taken the internet by storm. In the advertisement, Venkatesh Prasad was seen performing on a song along with Manindar Singh, Javagal Srinath and Saba Karim. Featuring in an ad for a Bengaluru-based credit card bill payment platform where actor Jim Sarbh is seen comparing the rewards offered by the platform to the boyband featuring "your favourite cricketer". In the advertisement, the "Venkaboys" can be seen singing that "In the 90s, we were the real OGs." " Meet the Venkaboys " pic.twitter.com/ELkcpb9sxt — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) May 1, 2021 × Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma took to Twitter and shared the video and wrote: "From listening to you coach me on the field, to now listening to you sing while I am on my way to the stadium. Venky bhai....it's been a journey." From listening to you coach me on the field, to now listening to you sing while I am on my way to the stadium. Venky bhai....it's been a journey. pic.twitter.com/ubgORUe6Me — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) May 1, 2021 × The latest ad by the CRED had some interesting Twitter reactions. Check out: Whoever is in charge of this ad campaign deserves awards! https://t.co/usOClJxrqL — Soumya Inavilli (@SInavilli) May 1, 2021 × Wow😂 Firstu it was #RahulDravid and nowwu it is @venkateshprasad and #JavagalSrinath https://t.co/P43VNL0Ki6 — Amarnath ಬಿಎಂ (@amarnath1696) May 1, 2021 × This made me happy 😆👌👌 https://t.co/74ed4u5TSn — Bargi ☮️ (@ignorantnomad) May 1, 2021 ×

'Meet the Venkaboys': After Dravid's anger, Cricketing legends in a boy-band wins over internet

South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The Proteas bowler has further revealed how he was taken aback by Dhoni's aura, which gave him goosebumps while adding he is eager to play under 'Captain Cool’ again in IPL 2021, starting from April 9.&nbsp;

"When I first arrived at Chennai, you'd walk out and you'd hear the crowd chant his name, you would get goosebumps and they're not even talking about you. He is massive for cricket, massive for Chennai. Like everyone says, Captain Cool," Ngidi told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;

Ngidi scalped 11 wickets from seven matches in 2018 before opting out of the next edition due to injury. In IPL 2020, Ngidi played four matches but picked up nine wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a>

The South African quick bowler hailed Dhoni for the way he carries himself while also lauding his nature of keeping his emotions in check.&nbsp;

"He's been very consistent; that's the one thing I was amazed at the most… his consistency and how he carries himself, behaves as a captain. For me, that was one of the most amazing things. Never showing too much emotion but when you'd need to get a bit of a pick-up talk from the captain, he'd give it to you. Very amazing man and very happy to be playing under him," Ngidi added.&nbsp;

CSK added the likes of Moeen Ali,&nbsp;Krishnappa Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K Bhagath Varma and C Hari Nishanth&nbsp;to their squad in the IPL 2021 auction and Ngidi is looking forward to playing with them in the tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-virat-kohli-achieves-iconic-milestone-in-t20i-cricket-370598" hreflang="en">Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket</a>

"The combination is going to be interesting to see. Who plays, who misses out but the coaching staff and the captain get along very well and they've always got plans to fix things. So, I'm really excited to see how the guys are going to get it this year," the fast bowler said.&nbsp;

South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.

South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The Proteas bowler has further revealed how he was taken aback by Dhoni's aura, which gave him goosebumps while adding he is eager to play under 'Captain Cool’ again in IPL 2021, starting from April 9. "When I first arrived at Chennai, you'd walk out and you'd hear the crowd chant his name, you would get goosebumps and they're not even talking about you. He is massive for cricket, massive for Chennai. Like everyone says, Captain Cool," Ngidi told ESPNCricinfo. Ngidi scalped 11 wickets from seven matches in 2018 before opting out of the next edition due to injury. In IPL 2020, Ngidi played four matches but picked up nine wickets. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom The South African quick bowler hailed Dhoni for the way he carries himself while also lauding his nature of keeping his emotions in check. "He's been very consistent; that's the one thing I was amazed at the most… his consistency and how he carries himself, behaves as a captain. For me, that was one of the most amazing things. Never showing too much emotion but when you'd need to get a bit of a pick-up talk from the captain, he'd give it to you. Very amazing man and very happy to be playing under him," Ngidi added. CSK added the likes of Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K Bhagath Varma and C Hari Nishanth to their squad in the IPL 2021 auction and Ngidi is looking forward to playing with them in the tournament. ALSO READ: Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket "The combination is going to be interesting to see. Who plays, who misses out but the coaching staff and the captain get along very well and they've always got plans to fix things. So, I'm really excited to see how the guys are going to get it this year," the fast bowler said.

'When I first arrived at Chennai...': CSK's Lungi Ngidi reveals how MS Dhoni gave him 'goosebumps'

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

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

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

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

The Indian cricket board has said that it would deal and communicate directly with the state associations and not with any player agents in case of individual players wishing to register themselves for the Indian Premier League (IPL) players` auction for the 2021 season. 
 
The deadline for franchises to name their retentions from previous season is January 20 whereas the deadline for players without contracts to make online submission for IPL 2021 player auction agreements is February 4. The final deadline for the originals sent by post will be accepted until February 12. 
 
The mini-auction is likely to be held on February 16. 
 
"Please note that, at this stage of the process, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) will only deal directly with the state associations and at no time will have any communication with player agents or managers. Any failure by a player to abide by this will (unless BCCI in its sole discretion decides otherwise) result in the player`s name being withdrawn with immediate effect from the IPL 2021 auction register and/or IPL 2021 auction list (as appropriate)," stated the BCCI in a letter to state associations. 
 
The onus has been put on the state body to give name of the players who want to participate in the auctions. 
 
"Registration for this season will be via an online IPL auction registration system. A unique password and login will be sent to you in a separate email. Please note the password should be changed once you have logged in for the first time and not to be shared with players," the letter to state bodies states. 
 
"Once logged in you will be asked to register all interested players (details on the procedure can be found in the attached user manual for state associations)," it adds. 
 
"When the above registration is initiated by the state association, it will generate an email to the player with their login details so they can complete the registration process." 
 
"Once registered, in order to express their interest in playing in the IPL 2021, the player should login to the online registration system. They will be required to complete all the fields and download and complete the IPL 2021 player auction agreement. Once completed the agreement must be uploaded back to the online registration system and the original sent or delivered to their respective state association. Please note physical signature of player is required on original auction agreement." 
 
The BCCI has also set certain norms for under-19 players willing to feature in the auctions. It says that the player needs to be registered as a player with a state body and should have played at least one first-class or list A match. 
 
"An Indian under-19 player may only register for the IPL 2021 player auction if the player is registered as a player with a state association and has played in at least one match in either first-class cricket or List A cricket. For the 2021 season, an u-19 player is one who was born on or after 1 April 2002," the BCCI stated. 
 
The BCCI also put a condition for uncapped player who has retired from domestic cricket, saying that the player would need approval from it. 
 
"Any uncapped player who has retired from domestic cricket, can only submit his auction agreement for player registration after getting written approval from BCCI," said the statement.

The Indian cricket board has said that it would deal and communicate directly with the state associations and not with any player agents in case of individual players wishing to register themselves for the Indian Premier League (IPL) players` auction for the 2021 season.

The Indian cricket board has said that it would deal and communicate directly with the state associations and not with any player agents in case of individual players wishing to register themselves for the Indian Premier League (IPL) players` auction for the 2021 season. The deadline for franchises to name their retentions from previous season is January 20 whereas the deadline for players without contracts to make online submission for IPL 2021 player auction agreements is February 4. The final deadline for the originals sent by post will be accepted until February 12. The mini-auction is likely to be held on February 16. "Please note that, at this stage of the process, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) will only deal directly with the state associations and at no time will have any communication with player agents or managers. Any failure by a player to abide by this will (unless BCCI in its sole discretion decides otherwise) result in the player`s name being withdrawn with immediate effect from the IPL 2021 auction register and/or IPL 2021 auction list (as appropriate)," stated the BCCI in a letter to state associations. The onus has been put on the state body to give name of the players who want to participate in the auctions. "Registration for this season will be via an online IPL auction registration system. A unique password and login will be sent to you in a separate email. Please note the password should be changed once you have logged in for the first time and not to be shared with players," the letter to state bodies states. "Once logged in you will be asked to register all interested players (details on the procedure can be found in the attached user manual for state associations)," it adds. "When the above registration is initiated by the state association, it will generate an email to the player with their login details so they can complete the registration process." "Once registered, in order to express their interest in playing in the IPL 2021, the player should login to the online registration system. They will be required to complete all the fields and download and complete the IPL 2021 player auction agreement. Once completed the agreement must be uploaded back to the online registration system and the original sent or delivered to their respective state association. Please note physical signature of player is required on original auction agreement." The BCCI has also set certain norms for under-19 players willing to feature in the auctions. It says that the player needs to be registered as a player with a state body and should have played at least one first-class or list A match. "An Indian under-19 player may only register for the IPL 2021 player auction if the player is registered as a player with a state association and has played in at least one match in either first-class cricket or List A cricket. For the 2021 season, an u-19 player is one who was born on or after 1 April 2002," the BCCI stated. The BCCI also put a condition for uncapped player who has retired from domestic cricket, saying that the player would need approval from it. "Any uncapped player who has retired from domestic cricket, can only submit his auction agreement for player registration after getting written approval from BCCI," said the statement.

IPL auction: Feb 4 registration deadline; no player agent allowed

The International Cricket Council on Sunday announced the Team of the Decade for all three formats and on Monday, ICC revealed the winners of all individual awards. Irked by the ICC Team of the Decade, which features none of the Pakistan players, former speedster Shoaib Akhtar lashed out at ICC for ignoring Pakistani players from its list while saying they announced “IPL Team of the Decade”.&nbsp;

Akhtar, in his YouTube channel, said that he thinks ICC forgot that Pakistan is also a cricket-playing member while arguing that Babar Azam should have been in ICC’s T20I Team of the Decade.&nbsp;

“I think ICC forgot that Pakistan is also a member of ICC and they also play T20I cricket. They did not pick Babar Azam, who is currently the number one batsman in the ICC T20I rankings.

TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-spirit-of-the-decade-award-when-ms-dhoni-recalled-ian-bell-during-nottingham-test-in-2011-watch-352933" hreflang="en">ICC Spirit of the Decade Award: When MS Dhoni recalled Ian Bell during Nottingham Test in 2011- Watch</a>

“There is no big player than Babar Azam in T20I. He is a top-scorer for Pakistan and his averages show what he has done for the country, even in comparison with Virat Kohli. It is so embarrassing and I’m sure after this video they will think that they have to announce the World Team of the Decade, not the IPL team,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

<h2>WATCH: Shoaib Akhtar slams ICC for not including Pakistan cricketers in Team of the Decade</h2>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SNZV0pg3owk" width="770"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-named-icc-male-cricketer-of-the-decade-odi-player-of-the-decade-check-full-list-352886" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list</a>

Akhtar further accused ICC of announcing an IPL team instead of World XI team.

“They did not pick a single player from Pakistan in the team. We don’t need your (ICC) T20I Team of the Decade because you announced the IPL team, not a world cricket team,” Akhtar said.

The ‘Rawalpindi Express’ went on to slam ICC for commercialising cricket while accusing them of thinking only about money, sponsorship and TV rights.&nbsp; 
“ICC only thinks about money, sponsorships and TV rights. They introduced two new balls and three powerplays (in the ODI cricket). Where is Dennis Lillee, Jeff Thomson, big five of West Indies, Wasim (Akram) and Waqar (Younis)?

“Where are the world’s fastest bowlers and leg-spinners? They went away because ICC commercialised and materialised cricket so much and allowed ten leagues to earn more revenue,” Akhtar said.

The International Cricket Council on Sunday announced the Team of the Decade for all three formats and on Monday, ICC revealed the winners of all individual awards.

The International Cricket Council on Sunday announced the Team of the Decade for all three formats and on Monday, ICC revealed the winners of all individual awards. Irked by the ICC Team of the Decade, which features none of the Pakistan players, former speedster Shoaib Akhtar lashed out at ICC for ignoring Pakistani players from its list while saying they announced “IPL Team of the Decade”. Akhtar, in his YouTube channel, said that he thinks ICC forgot that Pakistan is also a cricket-playing member while arguing that Babar Azam should have been in ICC’s T20I Team of the Decade. “I think ICC forgot that Pakistan is also a member of ICC and they also play T20I cricket. They did not pick Babar Azam, who is currently the number one batsman in the ICC T20I rankings. TRENDING | ICC Spirit of the Decade Award: When MS Dhoni recalled Ian Bell during Nottingham Test in 2011- Watch “There is no big player than Babar Azam in T20I. He is a top-scorer for Pakistan and his averages show what he has done for the country, even in comparison with Virat Kohli. It is so embarrassing and I’m sure after this video they will think that they have to announce the World Team of the Decade, not the IPL team,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. WATCH: Shoaib Akhtar slams ICC for not including Pakistan cricketers in Team of the Decade × ALSO READ: Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list Akhtar further accused ICC of announcing an IPL team instead of World XI team. “They did not pick a single player from Pakistan in the team. We don’t need your (ICC) T20I Team of the Decade because you announced the IPL team, not a world cricket team,” Akhtar said. The ‘Rawalpindi Express’ went on to slam ICC for commercialising cricket while accusing them of thinking only about money, sponsorship and TV rights. “ICC only thinks about money, sponsorships and TV rights. They introduced two new balls and three powerplays (in the ODI cricket). Where is Dennis Lillee, Jeff Thomson, big five of West Indies, Wasim (Akram) and Waqar (Younis)? “Where are the world’s fastest bowlers and leg-spinners? They went away because ICC commercialised and materialised cricket so much and allowed ten leagues to earn more revenue,” Akhtar said.

'Named an IPL team" - Shoaib Akhtar cries foul as ICC doesn't include Pakistan players in Team of the Decade - Watch

Former Australian captain Allan Border has acknowledged the contribution of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> in breaking the ice between Indian and Australian players while cooling down the tempers that used to flare on the pitch.&nbsp;

Australia and India are set to take on each other in a four-match Test series starting Thursday at the Adelaide Oval. Border, while speaking during a media interaction, said that there was a clash of cultures earlier but the rivalry was always competitive while adding that IPL ended that barrier between players.

“I think Sunny (Sunil Gavaskar) talked about (in a media article) that there was always a little bit of clash, clash of cultures between Australians and Indians. We play the game a certain way, we are brought up to play the game in an aggressive manner. We use swear words a lot in our natural conversation without meaning anything by it. Whereas in India, sometimes the players used to take offence with the way we were,” Border said.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warner-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warner vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a>

“That clash of cultures has been addressed in recent times because of the IPL. Because you have got Australians and South Africans and Indians, the different cultures playing in one franchise you get to know each other a lot better. The appreciation is what makes different people tick when you are in the same dressing room compared to opposing dressing rooms. I think that has helped the Indians and Australians and the way, the mannerisms out in the field. But don’t mistake the smiling assassins (Tim Paine’s Australians). They will be friendly alright but they will be keen to be the Australian boys because they really rate this series very highly,” added Border.

The former Australian admitted that Virat Kohli perfectly represents the changing face of Indian cricket, backing Greg Chappell’s comments of Kohli being the most Australian non-Australian. Border said Kohli’s involvement in the game sets him apart from his peers and added that he likes Kohli’s passion on the field.&nbsp;

“We just love the way he plays cricket. You can see in his body language out on the ground. He lives and breathes every minute. He is out there, he just loves it. There is a bit more chat out on the ground. He talks to his own players and opposition. He is in the contest more so than the other Indian players we have seen in the past,” said Border before describing the new Indian cricketer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-ricky-ponting-picks-his-australia-playing-xi-for-dn-test-349918" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: Ricky Ponting picks his Australia playing XI for D/N Test</a>

“What we talk in this country is about the new Indian cricketer. He has got tattoes. Married to a Bollywood actress. He is a very feisty competitor and not to say that other Indians aren’t like that. But he just wears his heart on the sleeve. I suppose he tends to play cricket like some of us tend to. He is very much liked in these shores. He is a seriously good player — that is obviously there, but I like that passion he brings to the game,” added Border.

Former Australian captain Allan Border has acknowledged the contribution of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in breaking the ice between Indian and Australian players while cooling down the tempers that used to flare on the pitch.

Former Australian captain Allan Border has acknowledged the contribution of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in breaking the ice between Indian and Australian players while cooling down the tempers that used to flare on the pitch. Australia and India are set to take on each other in a four-match Test series starting Thursday at the Adelaide Oval. Border, while speaking during a media interaction, said that there was a clash of cultures earlier but the rivalry was always competitive while adding that IPL ended that barrier between players. “I think Sunny (Sunil Gavaskar) talked about (in a media article) that there was always a little bit of clash, clash of cultures between Australians and Indians. We play the game a certain way, we are brought up to play the game in an aggressive manner. We use swear words a lot in our natural conversation without meaning anything by it. Whereas in India, sometimes the players used to take offence with the way we were,” Border said. IN PICS | Warner vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters “That clash of cultures has been addressed in recent times because of the IPL. Because you have got Australians and South Africans and Indians, the different cultures playing in one franchise you get to know each other a lot better. The appreciation is what makes different people tick when you are in the same dressing room compared to opposing dressing rooms. I think that has helped the Indians and Australians and the way, the mannerisms out in the field. But don’t mistake the smiling assassins (Tim Paine’s Australians). They will be friendly alright but they will be keen to be the Australian boys because they really rate this series very highly,” added Border. The former Australian admitted that Virat Kohli perfectly represents the changing face of Indian cricket, backing Greg Chappell’s comments of Kohli being the most Australian non-Australian. Border said Kohli’s involvement in the game sets him apart from his peers and added that he likes Kohli’s passion on the field. “We just love the way he plays cricket. You can see in his body language out on the ground. He lives and breathes every minute. He is out there, he just loves it. There is a bit more chat out on the ground. He talks to his own players and opposition. He is in the contest more so than the other Indian players we have seen in the past,” said Border before describing the new Indian cricketer. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Ricky Ponting picks his Australia playing XI for D/N Test “What we talk in this country is about the new Indian cricketer. He has got tattoes. Married to a Bollywood actress. He is a very feisty competitor and not to say that other Indians aren’t like that. But he just wears his heart on the sleeve. I suppose he tends to play cricket like some of us tend to. He is very much liked in these shores. He is a seriously good player — that is obviously there, but I like that passion he brings to the game,” added Border.

IPL turned foes to friends, says Allan Border ahead of India vs Australia series

The BCCI Annual General Meeting is set to be held on December 24. In what comes as a move by the Indian board to expand the brand of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL), two new teams are set to be added ahead of the 14th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, in the BCCI AGM.

A notice regarding the addition of two new franchise in IPL has been sent to the affiliated units by the BCCI, signed by secretary Jay Shah. The election of vice-president is also set to be discussed in a list of 22 other matters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/supreme-court-to-hear-bcci-matter-on-december-9-decision-on-sourav-ganguly-jay-shahs-tenure-likely-347001" hreflang="en">Supreme Court to hear BCCI matter on December 9; decision on Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah's tenure likely</a>

The BCCI AGM will also discuss the future of president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Shah, who are working way past their designated tenures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A hearing on the same is also to be held on December 9 at the Supreme Court.

Appointments are also to be made for roles of Ombudsman and Ethics Officer, BCCI’s representative to the ICC, Cricket Committee and Standing Committee and the Umpires’ Committee.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-move-to-the-top-of-the-icc-mens-cricket-world-cup-super-league-table-346965" hreflang="en">Australia move to the top of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League table</a>

<h2>BCCI Annual General Meeting: Agenda Points</h2>

<ul>
	<li>A. Confirmation of the minutes of the 88th Annual General Meeting of BCCI held on December 1, 2019 at BCCI Headquarters, Cricket Centre, Mumbai.</li>
	<li>B. Election of the Vice-President.</li>
	<li>C. Election of 2 (two) representatives of the General Body in the Governing Council of the IPL.</li>
	<li>D. Induction/appointment of the following members of the Governing Council:</li>
	<li>(a) 2 (two) representatives of the General Body; and</li>
	<li>(b) 1 (one) representative of the Indian Cricketer’s Association;</li>
	<li>E. Adoption of the Report of the Secretary for the year 2019-20 under review.</li>
	<li>F. Adoption of the Treasurer’s Report and the audited accounts for the year FY 2018-19.</li>
	<li>G. Adoption of the Annual Budget for the year FY 2020-21.</li>
	<li>H. Appointment of the Auditor or Auditors for the year 2019-20 and 2020-21 and fix their remuneration.</li>
	<li>I. Appointment of the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer.</li>
	<li>J. Appointment of the Cricket Committees and Standing Committees as mentioned in Rules 26 and 25 respectively.</li>
	<li>K. Appointment of the Umpires Committee as mentioned in Rule 27.</li>
	<li>L. Consideration of:</li>
	<li>(a) the Report and recommendations of the Apex Council, the CEO and the Committees and to propose policy directions to the Apex Council;</li>
	<li>(b) the Report and recommendations of the Governing Council and to propose policy directions to the Governing Council;</li>
	<li>(c) the Reports of the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer and any recommendations made therein;</li>
	<li>M. Consideration of any motion, notice whereof is given by a Full Member to the Secretary, 21 (twenty-one) days before the meeting.</li>
	<li>N. To appoint the BCCI’s Representative or Representatives on the International Cricket Council and/or any similar organization.</li>
	<li>O. Approval on inclusion of 2 (two) new team to the Indian Premier League.</li>
	<li>P. Discussion of BCCI’s stand on inclusion of cricket in Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.</li>
	<li>Q. To update on ICC matters.</li>
	<li>R. To update on National Cricket Academy matters.</li>
	<li>3</li>
	<li>S. To update on ICC T20 World Cup 2021 scheduled to be held in India.</li>
	<li>T. To update on India’s Future Tour Programs.</li>
	<li>U. Ratification of rules framed by the Apex Council, in terms of Rule 15 of BCCI’s Rules and Regulations.</li>
	<li>V. Consideration of any business, which the President may consider</li>
	<li>12-team IPL 2021:</li>
</ul>

Furthermore, the BCCI will also decide on mega or mini-auction for IPL 2021 and inclusion of two new teams in the tournament.&nbsp;

The BCCI Annual General Meeting is set to be held on December 24. In what comes as a move by the Indian board to expand the brand of Indian Premier League (IPL), two new teams are set to be added ahead of the 14th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, in the BCCI AGM.

The BCCI Annual General Meeting is set to be held on December 24. In what comes as a move by the Indian board to expand the brand of Indian Premier League (IPL), two new teams are set to be added ahead of the 14th edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, in the BCCI AGM. A notice regarding the addition of two new franchise in IPL has been sent to the affiliated units by the BCCI, signed by secretary Jay Shah. The election of vice-president is also set to be discussed in a list of 22 other matters. ALSO READ: Supreme Court to hear BCCI matter on December 9; decision on Sourav Ganguly, Jay Shah's tenure likely The BCCI AGM will also discuss the future of president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Shah, who are working way past their designated tenures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A hearing on the same is also to be held on December 9 at the Supreme Court. Appointments are also to be made for roles of Ombudsman and Ethics Officer, BCCI’s representative to the ICC, Cricket Committee and Standing Committee and the Umpires’ Committee. ALSO READ: Australia move to the top of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League table BCCI Annual General Meeting: Agenda Points A. Confirmation of the minutes of the 88th Annual General Meeting of BCCI held on December 1, 2019 at BCCI Headquarters, Cricket Centre, Mumbai. B. Election of the Vice-President. C. Election of 2 (two) representatives of the General Body in the Governing Council of the IPL. D. Induction/appointment of the following members of the Governing Council: (a) 2 (two) representatives of the General Body; and (b) 1 (one) representative of the Indian Cricketer’s Association; E. Adoption of the Report of the Secretary for the year 2019-20 under review. F. Adoption of the Treasurer’s Report and the audited accounts for the year FY 2018-19. G. Adoption of the Annual Budget for the year FY 2020-21. H. Appointment of the Auditor or Auditors for the year 2019-20 and 2020-21 and fix their remuneration. I. Appointment of the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer. J. Appointment of the Cricket Committees and Standing Committees as mentioned in Rules 26 and 25 respectively. K. Appointment of the Umpires Committee as mentioned in Rule 27. L. Consideration of: (a) the Report and recommendations of the Apex Council, the CEO and the Committees and to propose policy directions to the Apex Council; (b) the Report and recommendations of the Governing Council and to propose policy directions to the Governing Council; (c) the Reports of the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer and any recommendations made therein; M. Consideration of any motion, notice whereof is given by a Full Member to the Secretary, 21 (twenty-one) days before the meeting. N. To appoint the BCCI’s Representative or Representatives on the International Cricket Council and/or any similar organization. O. Approval on inclusion of 2 (two) new team to the Indian Premier League. P. Discussion of BCCI’s stand on inclusion of cricket in Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028. Q. To update on ICC matters. R. To update on National Cricket Academy matters. 3 S. To update on ICC T20 World Cup 2021 scheduled to be held in India. T. To update on India’s Future Tour Programs. U. Ratification of rules framed by the Apex Council, in terms of Rule 15 of BCCI’s Rules and Regulations. V. Consideration of any business, which the President may consider 12-team IPL 2021: Furthermore, the BCCI will also decide on mega or mini-auction for IPL 2021 and inclusion of two new teams in the tournament.

Addition of 2 new IPL teams set to be approved at BCCI AGM: Reports

Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad take on in the 29th match of this year's Indian Premier League at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Chennai Super Kings have had a woeful run in this year's IPL after losing five matches and winning just two.

Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad take on in the 29th match of this year's Indian Premier League at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Chennai Super Kings have had a woeful run in this year's IPL after losing five matches and winning just two. To make it into the playoffs, CSK need six wins from their remaining seven fixtures. However, CSK will want to get back to winning ways. Sunrisers have already beaten the Super Kings earlier in this tournament. SRH won the match by 7 runs. Sunrisers Hyderabad, on the other hand, have had a season full of ups and downs. David Warner and Co. have won three matches and lost four matches. David Warner's side has been stronger than the Chennai side. With Warner back in form, the opening pair could wreak havoc on a ground like Dubai. Manish Pandey has been in the best of his form. Rashid Khan has an asset for SRH and could be vital in today's match. The two teams have faced each other 13 times in the IPL so far, and CSK holds a 9-4 head-to-head win/loss record over SRH. Probable XI: Sunrisers Hyderabad: David Warner (c), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Manish Pandey, Kane Williamson, Priyam Garg, Vijay Shankar, Abhishek Sharma, Rashid Khan. Sandeep Sharma, T Natarajan, Khaleel Ahmed Chennai Super Kings: Shane Watson, N Jagadeesan, Faf du Plessis, Ambati Rayudu, Sam Curran, MS Dhoni c & wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma, Shadul Thakur

IPL 2020, CSK vs SRH: Preview, stats, players to watch out for

Virat's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Karthik's Kolkata Knight Riders are set to lock horn at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the 28th match of IPL 2020.

Both teams face each other after winning their recent matches, they will want to keep up the momentum and stay on the top four positions.&nbsp;

The two teams have faced each other 24 times in the IPL so far, with KKR holding a 14-10 head-to-head win/loss record over RCB.

<h2>Where will the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders take place?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;

<h2>What time will the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders at 7:30 PM IST on Monday&nbsp;(October 12).

<h2>How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin?</h2>

The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels. Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD.

<h2>How to watch IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders match online?</h2>

The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders match at WION.

Virat's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Karthik's Kolkata Knight Riders are set to lock horn at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the 28th match of IPL 2020. Both teams face each other after winning their recent matches, they will want to keep up the momentum and stay on the top four positions.

Virat's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Karthik's Kolkata Knight Riders are set to lock horn at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the 28th match of IPL 2020. Both teams face each other after winning their recent matches, they will want to keep up the momentum and stay on the top four positions. The two teams have faced each other 24 times in the IPL so far, with KKR holding a 14-10 head-to-head win/loss record over RCB. Where will the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders take place? The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. What time will the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin? The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders at 7:30 PM IST on Monday (October 12). How to watch live IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin? The IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels. Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. How to watch IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders match online? The online live streaming of the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be available at Hotstar. You can also latest updates of the IPL 2020 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders match at WION.

RCB vs KKR, IPL 2020 Live Streaming: How to watch Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders online?

The BCCI has tied up with UK-based company Sportradar, which will offer its "integrity services" to prevent betting and other corrupt practices during the upcoming IPL through its Fraud Detection Services (FDS).

With the 13th Indian Premier League being held behind closed doors, the challenge for the Board''s Ajit Singh-led Anti-Corruption Unit is very different as there has been a surge in betting-related frauds even during some of the state unit''s leagues, and it''s expected to increase manifold during the lucrative event.

"Yes, BCCI has inked a deal with Sportradar for this year''s IPL. They will be working closely with the ACU and offer their integrity services," an IPL source confirmed the development to PTI.

"Sportradar has very recently red flagged at least half a dozen games in Goa football league which came under fixing cloud. They have also worked with FIFA, UEFA and various leagues across the globe," the source added.

The BCCI ACU, in recent times, tracked unusual betting patterns during the state T20 leagues, including the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), as a major betting company stopped taking bets after unusual bets were being placed.

According to Sportradar, Fraud Detection System (FDS) "is a unique service that identifies betting-related manipulation in sport. This is possible due to the FDS''s sophisticated algorithms and constantly maintained database of odds which are leveraged for the purpose of detecting match-fixing."

It is believed that the company tracks the odds and movements of at least 600 independent bookmakers to detect anomalies in betting patterns. It processes around 5 million data sets per day. It is understood that apart from bookies and possible corruptors, who will look to approach players and support staff online, the advent of multiple fantasy gaming company will also keep the world''s richest cricket board on tenterhooks.

"Fantasy gaming is not exactly betting in its traditional sense but the element of gambling does exist. So it''s a good thing that BCCI is engaging with a company that works on betting related corruption in sport," a BCCI veteran said.

An interesting aspect of fraud detection is the mathematical algorithm that is used to study betting patterns. 
It is a "sophisticated model" which monitors live betting on offer during an event. "There are 25 live alerts, which instantly identifies irregular betting in the marketplace. The mathematical model uses calculated odds, which runs alongside bookmakers'' odds, in order to highlight if the odds during a specific minute or time is out of line, and therefore, potentially suspicious," the Sportradar website stated under its ''25 Live Alerts'' section.

There are also "44 detailed pre-match alerts which are based on odds movements observed at betting operators." An alert is generated in FDS when odds at a bookmaker changes greater than pre-defined parameter", which can be customised according to the nature of the sport."

The BCCI has tied up with UK-based company Sportradar, which will offer its "integrity services" to prevent betting and other corrupt practices during the upcoming IPL through its Fraud Detection Services (FDS).

The BCCI has tied up with UK-based company Sportradar, which will offer its "integrity services" to prevent betting and other corrupt practices during the upcoming IPL through its Fraud Detection Services (FDS). With the 13th Indian Premier League being held behind closed doors, the challenge for the Board''s Ajit Singh-led Anti-Corruption Unit is very different as there has been a surge in betting-related frauds even during some of the state unit''s leagues, and it''s expected to increase manifold during the lucrative event. "Yes, BCCI has inked a deal with Sportradar for this year''s IPL. They will be working closely with the ACU and offer their integrity services," an IPL source confirmed the development to PTI. "Sportradar has very recently red flagged at least half a dozen games in Goa football league which came under fixing cloud. They have also worked with FIFA, UEFA and various leagues across the globe," the source added. The BCCI ACU, in recent times, tracked unusual betting patterns during the state T20 leagues, including the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), as a major betting company stopped taking bets after unusual bets were being placed. According to Sportradar, Fraud Detection System (FDS) "is a unique service that identifies betting-related manipulation in sport. This is possible due to the FDS''s sophisticated algorithms and constantly maintained database of odds which are leveraged for the purpose of detecting match-fixing." It is believed that the company tracks the odds and movements of at least 600 independent bookmakers to detect anomalies in betting patterns. It processes around 5 million data sets per day. It is understood that apart from bookies and possible corruptors, who will look to approach players and support staff online, the advent of multiple fantasy gaming company will also keep the world''s richest cricket board on tenterhooks. "Fantasy gaming is not exactly betting in its traditional sense but the element of gambling does exist. So it''s a good thing that BCCI is engaging with a company that works on betting related corruption in sport," a BCCI veteran said. An interesting aspect of fraud detection is the mathematical algorithm that is used to study betting patterns. It is a "sophisticated model" which monitors live betting on offer during an event. "There are 25 live alerts, which instantly identifies irregular betting in the marketplace. The mathematical model uses calculated odds, which runs alongside bookmakers'' odds, in order to highlight if the odds during a specific minute or time is out of line, and therefore, potentially suspicious," the Sportradar website stated under its ''25 Live Alerts'' section. There are also "44 detailed pre-match alerts which are based on odds movements observed at betting operators." An alert is generated in FDS when odds at a bookmaker changes greater than pre-defined parameter", which can be customised according to the nature of the sport."

IPL: BCCI's Anti-Corruption Unit set to use Fraud Detection Services to prevent corrupt practices

England wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler is hoping for at least a curtailed IPL this season, aware that it would be difficult to conduct the "massive tournament" in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

The league was originally scheduled to start on March 29 in Mumbai but it was postponed to April 15 to contain the spread of the coronavirus, which has claimed more than 21,000 lives across the globe.

"No news at the moment. We saw, initially, that it was going to be postponed. It's very hard to see this changing in the immediate future, so I don't see that as a possibility at the moment," Buttler said in a skysports podcast.

"Obviously, it's such a massive tournament for world cricket, so hopefully some of it can go ahead - perhaps a shortened tournament."

Buttler also spoke about the duel between Jofra Archer and Steve Smith during the Ashes. Smith was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the side of the head by a Archer bouncer during the second Ashes Test at Lord's last year.

The Australian batsman was ruled out of the third Test after suffering concussion.

"That was Jofra's first Test - he came with a lot of expectations [on him] but for a guy to produce a spell on debut like he did was quite incredible," said Buttler.

"Any time we see some of the best Test cricket, it's always with great fast bowling; Jofra - a new kid on the block bowling extremely fast to the world's best batsman at Lord's in an Ashes Test."

"You could just feel that sense of anticipation every time that he ran in and you could see the speedgun getting quicker and quicker. There was that sense of something happening - incredible theatre and incredible drama," Buttler said.

"It was scary because [Smith] got hit on his neck or just beneath. People are very aware of what happened to Phillip Hughes, so there was huge worry for everyone."

Asked with whom he would least like to self-isolate with, Buttler quipped: "Ravi Ashwin, probably. It's actually a year ago since I got 'mankaded' because I keep getting tweeted about it, saying 'stay safe, don't go outside' with those pictures of me."

Ashwin on Wednesday had cited the 2019 IPL's Mankading incident involving Buttler to urge people to stay indoor during coronavirus lockdown in the country.

UK too has put its population under a lockdown and Buttler said the break has given him an opportunity to spend time with his daughter and he tries to do some exercise to keep himself fit.

"Obviously, very strange circumstances, but it's actually quite nice to spend some time at home, be with our little girl and actually just be a dad for a bit. I've also been doing some Pilates with my Mrs, in my cricket gear," he said.

"The calendar is always so busy, so you're trying to find times when you can get a bit of a break, so I'm trying to use the time as a positive - although, of course, it's really unfortunate circumstances and very tough for everyone."

England wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler is hoping for at least a curtailed IPL this season, aware that it would be difficult to conduct the "massive tournament" in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

England wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler is hoping for at least a curtailed IPL this season, aware that it would be difficult to conduct the "massive tournament" in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. The league was originally scheduled to start on March 29 in Mumbai but it was postponed to April 15 to contain the spread of the coronavirus, which has claimed more than 21,000 lives across the globe. "No news at the moment. We saw, initially, that it was going to be postponed. It's very hard to see this changing in the immediate future, so I don't see that as a possibility at the moment," Buttler said in a skysports podcast. "Obviously, it's such a massive tournament for world cricket, so hopefully some of it can go ahead - perhaps a shortened tournament." Buttler also spoke about the duel between Jofra Archer and Steve Smith during the Ashes. Smith was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the side of the head by a Archer bouncer during the second Ashes Test at Lord's last year. The Australian batsman was ruled out of the third Test after suffering concussion. "That was Jofra's first Test - he came with a lot of expectations [on him] but for a guy to produce a spell on debut like he did was quite incredible," said Buttler. "Any time we see some of the best Test cricket, it's always with great fast bowling; Jofra - a new kid on the block bowling extremely fast to the world's best batsman at Lord's in an Ashes Test." "You could just feel that sense of anticipation every time that he ran in and you could see the speedgun getting quicker and quicker. There was that sense of something happening - incredible theatre and incredible drama," Buttler said. "It was scary because [Smith] got hit on his neck or just beneath. People are very aware of what happened to Phillip Hughes, so there was huge worry for everyone." Asked with whom he would least like to self-isolate with, Buttler quipped: "Ravi Ashwin, probably. It's actually a year ago since I got 'mankaded' because I keep getting tweeted about it, saying 'stay safe, don't go outside' with those pictures of me." Ashwin on Wednesday had cited the 2019 IPL's Mankading incident involving Buttler to urge people to stay indoor during coronavirus lockdown in the country. UK too has put its population under a lockdown and Buttler said the break has given him an opportunity to spend time with his daughter and he tries to do some exercise to keep himself fit. "Obviously, very strange circumstances, but it's actually quite nice to spend some time at home, be with our little girl and actually just be a dad for a bit. I've also been doing some Pilates with my Mrs, in my cricket gear," he said. "The calendar is always so busy, so you're trying to find times when you can get a bit of a break, so I'm trying to use the time as a positive - although, of course, it's really unfortunate circumstances and very tough for everyone."

Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni got a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League on Monday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-dhoni-receives-grand-welcome-at-chennai-ahead-of-practice-session-283661">IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session</a>

Earlier on Tuesday, Chennai Super Kings another video of Dhoni receiving his CSK teammate Suresh Raina. Raina is called 'Chinna Thala' by the CSK fans, whereas their captain MS Dhoni is called 'Thala' ( which means chieftain in Tamil).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-chennai-super-kings-csk-squad-schedule-and-players-to-watch-out-for-283228">IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) squad, schedule and players to watch out for!</a>

MS Dhoni will finally return to the ground after a long gap, the last time MS Dhoni played a match was against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Me3t and Gree7 - Everyday is Karthigai in our House, a film by Vikraman Sir. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StartTheWhistles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StartTheWhistles</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/sJz77Nnakr">pic.twitter.com/sJz77Nnakr</a>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1234684530864246784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Dhoni was criticised for his slow batting during the tournament. Earlier this year, Dhoni was not enlisted in the BCCI's central contract players' list.&nbsp;

The 38-year-old will lead the Super Kings this year, the first match will be between previous edition's finalists, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians on March 29.&nbsp;

Dhoni had commenced training with the Jharkhand team some time back, and would also look to get into the groove as he has been away from the game for a while now.&nbsp;

Practice sessions of the Super Kings’ team never failed to attract crowds in thousands in the past, and with Dhoni set for early arrival for preparation similar numbers can be expected this time around as well.

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni got a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League on Monday. Also read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session Earlier on Tuesday, Chennai Super Kings another video of Dhoni receiving his CSK teammate Suresh Raina.

Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni got a grand reception at Chennai ahead of Indian Premier League on Monday. Also read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session Earlier on Tuesday, Chennai Super Kings another video of Dhoni receiving his CSK teammate Suresh Raina. Raina is called 'Chinna Thala' by the CSK fans, whereas their captain MS Dhoni is called 'Thala' ( which means chieftain in Tamil). Also read: IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) squad, schedule and players to watch out for! MS Dhoni will finally return to the ground after a long gap, the last time MS Dhoni played a match was against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2019 World Cup. Me3t and Gree7 - Everyday is Karthigai in our House, a film by Vikraman Sir. #StartTheWhistles 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/sJz77Nnakr — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 3, 2020 × Dhoni was criticised for his slow batting during the tournament. Earlier this year, Dhoni was not enlisted in the BCCI's central contract players' list. The 38-year-old will lead the Super Kings this year, the first match will be between previous edition's finalists, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians on March 29. Dhoni had commenced training with the Jharkhand team some time back, and would also look to get into the groove as he has been away from the game for a while now. Practice sessions of the Super Kings’ team never failed to attract crowds in thousands in the past, and with Dhoni set for early arrival for preparation similar numbers can be expected this time around as well.

IPL 2020: 'Thala' MS Dhoni greets 'Chinna Tala' Suresh Raina ahead of CSK training session

ipl-1

Ipl, News on Ipl, stories on Ipl, articles on Ipl, Ipl stories at Wion, Ipl news, Ipl latest news

ipl 1