<p>Exactly two years back in May 2016, I watched an IPL T20 Cricket match between Bangalore and Gujarat Lions. South African batsman AB de Villiers (ABD) and Virat Kohli, playing for Bangalore, were decimating Lions' bowling attack. It was an assault with no mercy. ABD was even more destructive and poor Suresh Raina, captain of Gujarat Lions was absolutely clueless on how to stop this juggernaut and rein ABD in. ABD was punishing deliveries irrespective of their merit. He scored a swashbuckling century and Bangalore crushed Gujarat Lions with immaculate ease.</p>

<p>I have been a die-hard fan of this duo (ABD-Kohli) in T20 particularly after that match and never missed a single game of their team Bangalore ever since.</p>

<p>So just when I was trying to cope with the exit of Bangalore from IPL 2018, the second shocker came. ABD announced his retirement from the game. My first reaction was "why, he has plenty, plenty of cricket left him". Just a few days back we saw him decimating bowlers and taking that superman type of catch at the boundary.</p>

<p>Trust me that for me it is not a routine farewell piece for a cricketer. ABD was special and he has been one among my all-time favourite overseas cricketers along with Shane Warne, Viv Richards and Wasim Akram.</p>

<p>The reason is simple and straight. Like other three, ABD has been the only one of his league. ABD is the one who set a unique style of playing and inspired a whole generation to follow him.</p>

<p>His 360-degree style of batting changed the game in its own way. If ABD is on fire, then quality and class of bowling is rather a meaningless term. As a bowler, you were at the mercy of ABD as no matter what you bowl, if ABD had to dispatch it, he would.</p>

<p>On his day, ABD would score with jaw-dropping pace. In January 2015 during an ODI against West Indies, ABD smashed 144 runs in less than an hour. He only faced 44 deliveries and set a world record of fastest ODI hundred in just 31 balls. He led his side with passion in 2015 World Cup and led the proceedings with his bat. South Africa had a heartbreak though as they lost out to New Zealand in the semi-final.</p>

<p>ABD has been one of the best fielders of all-times. The way he ran Simon Katich out in 2006 with his acrobatic stop and throw has become epic to narrate for the generations to come (like Jonty Rhodes’s cruise in the air to dismiss Inzamam in 1992 World Cup).</p>

<p>He is leaving the game while he is still on peak and till now he was spearheading the South African middle order. In the recent Test series against India, it was ABD who played the decisive knock for his side in the first two Test matches and denied India an upper hand.</p>

<p>One last thing. One of the greatest ODI and T-20 batsmen of all times is leaving the game without even a single ICC title for his side. It is sad, very sad.</p>

<p>I remember that when South Africa crashed out of 2015 World Cup, on an Indian Facebook Cricket fans page, a tribute was posted to ABD for missing out the ICC cup yet again and fans hoped that ABD will do this in 2019 for sure. But ABD had some other ideas. He won’t be around in 2019 World Cup.</p>

<p>Bye bye ABD: You will surely be missed by frenzied fans like me.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


His 360-degree style of batting changed the game of cricket in its own way.

Exactly two years back in May 2016, I watched an IPL T20 Cricket match between Bangalore and Gujarat Lions. South African batsman AB de Villiers (ABD) and Virat Kohli, playing for Bangalore, were decimating Lions' bowling attack. It was an assault with no mercy. ABD was even more destructive and poor Suresh Raina, captain of Gujarat Lions was absolutely clueless on how to stop this juggernaut and rein ABD in. ABD was punishing deliveries irrespective of their merit. He scored a swashbuckling century and Bangalore crushed Gujarat Lions with immaculate ease. I have been a die-hard fan of this duo (ABD-Kohli) in T20 particularly after that match and never missed a single game of their team Bangalore ever since. So just when I was trying to cope with the exit of Bangalore from IPL 2018, the second shocker came. ABD announced his retirement from the game. My first reaction was "why, he has plenty, plenty of cricket left him". Just a few days back we saw him decimating bowlers and taking that superman type of catch at the boundary. Trust me that for me it is not a routine farewell piece for a cricketer. ABD was special and he has been one among my all-time favourite overseas cricketers along with Shane Warne, Viv Richards and Wasim Akram. The reason is simple and straight. Like other three, ABD has been the only one of his league. ABD is the one who set a unique style of playing and inspired a whole generation to follow him. His 360-degree style of batting changed the game in its own way. If ABD is on fire, then quality and class of bowling is rather a meaningless term. As a bowler, you were at the mercy of ABD as no matter what you bowl, if ABD had to dispatch it, he would. On his day, ABD would score with jaw-dropping pace. In January 2015 during an ODI against West Indies, ABD smashed 144 runs in less than an hour. He only faced 44 deliveries and set a world record of fastest ODI hundred in just 31 balls. He led his side with passion in 2015 World Cup and led the proceedings with his bat. South Africa had a heartbreak though as they lost out to New Zealand in the semi-final. ABD has been one of the best fielders of all-times. The way he ran Simon Katich out in 2006 with his acrobatic stop and throw has become epic to narrate for the generations to come (like Jonty Rhodes’s cruise in the air to dismiss Inzamam in 1992 World Cup). He is leaving the game while he is still on peak and till now he was spearheading the South African middle order. In the recent Test series against India, it was ABD who played the decisive knock for his side in the first two Test matches and denied India an upper hand. One last thing. One of the greatest ODI and T-20 batsmen of all times is leaving the game without even a single ICC title for his side. It is sad, very sad. I remember that when South Africa crashed out of 2015 World Cup, on an Indian Facebook Cricket fans page, a tribute was posted to ABD for missing out the ICC cup yet again and fans hoped that ABD will do this in 2019 for sure. But ABD had some other ideas. He won’t be around in 2019 World Cup. Bye bye ABD: You will surely be missed by frenzied fans like me. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Blog: AB de Villiers will be terribly missed

<p>Days after Bangalore crashed out of the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL), skipper Virat Kohli today apologised to the fans by posting an emotional message on his Twitter handle.</p>

<p>Bangalore had a largely disappointing season where they finished sixth with 12 points. This is the second year in a row when the franchise failed to make it to the play-offs.</p>

<p>Ashamed of team's performance, Kohli vowed to turn things around next season.</p>

<p>In all the games played, included the wins, Bangalore lacked consistency and apart from Kohli and now retired AB de Villiers, no other batsmen stepped up to the occasion. &nbsp</p>

<p>Though the team did show some late spark in the round-robin stage, the turnaround came a little too late for them to have any chance.&nbsp</p>

<p>After entering the must-win situation, Bangalore won three games on the trot, against Delhi, Punjab and Hyderabad.&nbsp</p>

<p>But they were then outplayed by Rajasthan in their final league game and exited from the tournament.</p>

<p>Kohli, after the match, spoke of his disappointment with the other batsmen pointing out that they cannot put all the workload on de Villiers and expect him to come out flying every single time.</p>

<p>Kohli is currently sixth in this year's list of top IPL scorers after amassing 530 runs at an average of 48.18 in 14 matches.&nbsp</p>

<p>De Villiers stands ninth in the same list with 480 runs at an average of 53.33.</p>


Kohli vowed to turn things around next season.

Days after Bangalore crashed out of the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL), skipper Virat Kohli today apologised to the fans by posting an emotional message on his Twitter handle. Bangalore had a largely disappointing season where they finished sixth with 12 points. This is the second year in a row when the franchise failed to make it to the play-offs. Ashamed of team's performance, Kohli vowed to turn things around next season. In all the games played, included the wins, Bangalore lacked consistency and apart from Kohli and now retired AB de Villiers, no other batsmen stepped up to the occasion. Though the team did show some late spark in the round-robin stage, the turnaround came a little too late for them to have any chance. After entering the must-win situation, Bangalore won three games on the trot, against Delhi, Punjab and Hyderabad. But they were then outplayed by Rajasthan in their final league game and exited from the tournament. Kohli, after the match, spoke of his disappointment with the other batsmen pointing out that they cannot put all the workload on de Villiers and expect him to come out flying every single time. Kohli is currently sixth in this year's list of top IPL scorers after amassing 530 runs at an average of 48.18 in 14 matches. De Villiers stands ninth in the same list with 480 runs at an average of 53.33.

Watch: Virat Kohli apologises to fans for disappointing them

<p>Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to reach the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League. Chennai won the first Qualifier by two wickets in a neck-to-neck encounter against Hyderabad. There was a moment when Chennai was 62-6 but South African star batsman Faf du Plessis played a responsible innings and snatched the match from the hands of Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shardul Thakur's 15-run knock off 5 balls did the icing on the cake and confirmed the victory. Earlier in the match, MS Dhoni had won the toss and opted to bowl at the Wankhede stadium.</p>

<p>Batting first, Hyderabad had a shaky start as Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target of 140 runs for MS Dhoni-led Chennai.</p>

<p>Still, the score is a bit less than what it was expected in such a crucial match and that too for a team whose batting unit is massive.</p>

<p>That is what exactly happened but while chasing the target of 140 runs, Chennai's batting line was thrashed in front of the Hyderabad's bowling unit but in the 17th and 18th overs, Hyderabad leaked too many runs.</p>

<p>Apart from Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina and Shardul Thakur none of the batsmen score more than 10 runs.</p>

<p><strong>Chennai's scoreboard</strong></p>

<p>Shane Watson 0, Faf du Plessis 67*, Suresh Raina 22, Ambati Rayudu 0, MS Dhoni 9, Dwayne Bravo 7, Ravindra Jadeja 3, Deepak Chahar 10, Harbhajan Singh 2, Shardul Thakur 15</p>

<p>For Hyderabad, Sandeep Sharma, Siddarth Kaul and Rashid Khan took 2 wickets each that gave a ray of finale hope but efforts went in vain.</p>

<p>Apart from them, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the most economical bowler for the Hyderabad. He gave 14 runs in his 3.1-over spell with 4.42 ecomnomy. Although, he failed to defend the six runs in &nbsp;the last over as Faf hit a splendid six on the first ball of last over to win the match.</p>

<p>Earlier, Deepak Chahar who dismissed Dhawan played an important role in restricting the Hyderabad team. He gave 31 runs in his 4-over spell and took the most impost wicket also of Shikhar Dhawan.</p>

<p>Shreevats Goswami and Manish Pandey scored 12 and 8 runs respectively before losing their wickets to Lungi Ngidi and Ravindra Jadeja.</p>

<p>Skipper Kane Williamson tried to push the run rate but lost his wicket to Shardul Thakur after scoring 24 runs.</p>

<p>Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 12 and 24 runs for the team but Dwayne Bravo out bowled both of batsmen.</p>

<p>Carlos Brathwaite salvaged the team as he scored 43 runs off just 29 balls in a very crucial time.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to reach the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League

Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to reach the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League. Chennai won the first Qualifier by two wickets in a neck-to-neck encounter against Hyderabad. There was a moment when Chennai was 62-6 but South African star batsman Faf du Plessis played a responsible innings and snatched the match from the hands of Hyderabad. Shardul Thakur's 15-run knock off 5 balls did the icing on the cake and confirmed the victory. Earlier in the match, MS Dhoni had won the toss and opted to bowl at the Wankhede stadium. Batting first, Hyderabad had a shaky start as Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target of 140 runs for MS Dhoni-led Chennai. Still, the score is a bit less than what it was expected in such a crucial match and that too for a team whose batting unit is massive. That is what exactly happened but while chasing the target of 140 runs, Chennai's batting line was thrashed in front of the Hyderabad's bowling unit but in the 17th and 18th overs, Hyderabad leaked too many runs. Apart from Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina and Shardul Thakur none of the batsmen score more than 10 runs. Chennai's scoreboard Shane Watson 0, Faf du Plessis 67*, Suresh Raina 22, Ambati Rayudu 0, MS Dhoni 9, Dwayne Bravo 7, Ravindra Jadeja 3, Deepak Chahar 10, Harbhajan Singh 2, Shardul Thakur 15 For Hyderabad, Sandeep Sharma, Siddarth Kaul and Rashid Khan took 2 wickets each that gave a ray of finale hope but efforts went in vain. Apart from them, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the most economical bowler for the Hyderabad. He gave 14 runs in his 3.1-over spell with 4.42 ecomnomy. Although, he failed to defend the six runs in the last over as Faf hit a splendid six on the first ball of last over to win the match. Earlier, Deepak Chahar who dismissed Dhawan played an important role in restricting the Hyderabad team. He gave 31 runs in his 4-over spell and took the most impost wicket also of Shikhar Dhawan. Shreevats Goswami and Manish Pandey scored 12 and 8 runs respectively before losing their wickets to Lungi Ngidi and Ravindra Jadeja. Skipper Kane Williamson tried to push the run rate but lost his wicket to Shardul Thakur after scoring 24 runs. Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 12 and 24 runs for the team but Dwayne Bravo out bowled both of batsmen. Carlos Brathwaite salvaged the team as he scored 43 runs off just 29 balls in a very crucial time.

Faf du Plessis shines as Chennai beat Hyderabad to reach IPL final

<p>Kolkata defeated Rajasthan by 25 runs to enter the Qualifier II of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While chasing a decent target of 170 runs, Rajasthan fell apart despite the spectacular knocks of skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Sanju Samson and could manage only 144/4.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Rahane fell four runs short to reach his half-century and was caught and bowled at 46, by Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His 41-ball inning included four boundaries and one huge six.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was after Rahane's wicket that Samson took the reins in his hand and smashed a brilliant half-century.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But he too gave away his wicket after smashing four boundaries and two sixes.</p>

<p>With this defeat, Rajasthan has been eliminated from the IPL tournament while Kolkata will lock horns with Hyderabad, who were defeated by Chennai in Qualifier 1, on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The two teams will now meet on Friday to decide who faces MS Dhoni-led Chennai in the final on Sunday.</p>

<p>Earlier, Dinesh Karthik and Andrew Russell's superb partnership powered Kolkata to 169 runs in the eliminator of Indian Premier League &nbsp;2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls. Russell's unbeaten inning included three fours and five huge sixes.</p>

<p>Before that, Karthik and Shubman Gill too added 55 runs for the fifth wicket to recover the team after the top batting order fell cheaply.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kolkata had their worst start of the season with K Gowtham (2/15 in three overs) and Jofra Archer (2/33) reducing them to 46/3 inside the powerplay.</p>

<p>From being 63 for 4 midway into the innings, Kolkata brilliantly stepped on the gas in the second-half, scoring 106 runs in the last 10 overs with Russell in charge of the proceedings.</p>

<p>Jaydev Unadkat, who leaked 33 runs from his two overs, was a big letdown from Rajasthan's perspective as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side could not choke the hosts despite a sound start.</p>

<p>Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata at Eden Gardens stadium on Wednesday.</p>

<p>After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both the teams entered with the same squad and there was no change in the playing XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


While chasing a decent target of 170 runs Rajasthan fell apart

Kolkata defeated Rajasthan by 25 runs to enter the Qualifier II of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. While chasing a decent target of 170 runs, Rajasthan fell apart despite the spectacular knocks of skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Sanju Samson and could manage only 144/4. Rahane fell four runs short to reach his half-century and was caught and bowled at 46, by Kuldeep Yadav. His 41-ball inning included four boundaries and one huge six. It was after Rahane's wicket that Samson took the reins in his hand and smashed a brilliant half-century. But he too gave away his wicket after smashing four boundaries and two sixes. With this defeat, Rajasthan has been eliminated from the IPL tournament while Kolkata will lock horns with Hyderabad, who were defeated by Chennai in Qualifier 1, on Tuesday. The two teams will now meet on Friday to decide who faces MS Dhoni-led Chennai in the final on Sunday. Earlier, Dinesh Karthik and Andrew Russell's superb partnership powered Kolkata to 169 runs in the eliminator of Indian Premier League 2018. While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls. Russell's unbeaten inning included three fours and five huge sixes. Before that, Karthik and Shubman Gill too added 55 runs for the fifth wicket to recover the team after the top batting order fell cheaply. Kolkata had their worst start of the season with K Gowtham (2/15 in three overs) and Jofra Archer (2/33) reducing them to 46/3 inside the powerplay. From being 63 for 4 midway into the innings, Kolkata brilliantly stepped on the gas in the second-half, scoring 106 runs in the last 10 overs with Russell in charge of the proceedings. Jaydev Unadkat, who leaked 33 runs from his two overs, was a big letdown from Rajasthan's perspective as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side could not choke the hosts despite a sound start. Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata at Eden Gardens stadium on Wednesday. After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions. On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match. Both the teams entered with the same squad and there was no change in the playing XI.

IPL 2018: Rajasthan eliminated as Kolkata enter Qualifier 2 with 25-run win

<p>After top batting order fell cheaply, skipper Dinesh Karthik and Andrew Russell's superb partnership powered Kolkata to 169 runs in the eliminator of Indian Premier League &nbsp2018.&nbsp</p>

<p>While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls. Russell's unbeaten inning included three fours and five huge sixes.</p>

<p>Earlier, Karthik and Shubman Gill added 55 runs for the fifth wicket to recover the team from early losses.</p>

<p>Kolkata had their worst start of the season with K Gowtham (2/15 in three overs) and Jofra Archer (2/33) reducing them to 46/3 inside the powerplay.</p>

<p>From being 63 for 4 midway into the innings, Kolkata brilliantly stepped on the gas in the second-half, scoring 106 runs in the last 10 overs with Russell in charge of the proceedings.</p>

<p>Jaydev Unadkat, who leaked 33 runs from his two overs, was a big letdown from Rajasthan's perspective as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side could not choke the hosts despite a sound start.</p>

<p>Earlier, Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday.</p>

<p>After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match.&nbsp</p>

<p>Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI.&nbsp</p>

<p><strong>Playing XI:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Kolkata: </strong>Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav</p>

<p><strong>Rajasthan:</strong> Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin<br />
&nbsp</p>


While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls.

After top batting order fell cheaply, skipper Dinesh Karthik and Andrew Russell's superb partnership powered Kolkata to 169 runs in the eliminator of Indian Premier League &nbsp2018. While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls. Russell's unbeaten inning included three fours and five huge sixes. Earlier, Karthik and Shubman Gill added 55 runs for the fifth wicket to recover the team from early losses. Kolkata had their worst start of the season with K Gowtham (2/15 in three overs) and Jofra Archer (2/33) reducing them to 46/3 inside the powerplay. From being 63 for 4 midway into the innings, Kolkata brilliantly stepped on the gas in the second-half, scoring 106 runs in the last 10 overs with Russell in charge of the proceedings. Jaydev Unadkat, who leaked 33 runs from his two overs, was a big letdown from Rajasthan's perspective as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side could not choke the hosts despite a sound start. Earlier, Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday. After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions. On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match. Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI. Playing XI: Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Rajasthan: Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin

IPL 2018 Eliminator: Karthik, Russell power Kolkata to 169

<p>Clearing the air behind not playing in the Indian Premier League after stepping down as skipper, Gautam Gambhir said he did not play because he was not picked up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘I would have played had I been picked,’ Gambhir said.</p>

<p>After a series of defeats, Gambhir stepped down as the skipper of Delhi and made way for young talent Shreyas Iyer.</p>

<p>Even as a player he failed to make any big score as the 36-year-old had 85 runs in six matches played, including one half-century in the team’s season opener.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gambhir’s resignation did not help as Delhi eventually ended up last in the table as the league stage.</p>

<p>However, the opener did not play any match for the franchise after stepping down, with reports suggesting he also decided to forego his entire Rs 2.8 crore salary for the season.</p>

<p>“A lot of people asked me why I didn’t play after stepping down from captaincy. My reply is simple: I would have played had I been picked.”</p>

<p>&nbsp;“A lot of people also ask me where did we go wrong? It is simple again: injuries to key players like [Kagiso] Rabada and [Chris] Morris, inability to build the right team combination, certain players not clicking, the team not playing important moments well and also the inability to handle pressure are all reasons for our failure," Gambhir said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have always believed it is bowlers who win you games whatever be the format. I think we lacked there,” he added.</p>

<p>Gambhir also denied reports that he is considering retirement from the game in order to contest in the elections for the Delhi and District Cricket Association.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi won their final two matches of the season but still ended up with only 10 points from 14 games.</p>


After a series of defeats, Gambhir stepped down as the skipper of Delhi

Clearing the air behind not playing in the Indian Premier League after stepping down as skipper, Gautam Gambhir said he did not play because he was not picked up. ‘I would have played had I been picked,’ Gambhir said. After a series of defeats, Gambhir stepped down as the skipper of Delhi and made way for young talent Shreyas Iyer. Even as a player he failed to make any big score as the 36-year-old had 85 runs in six matches played, including one half-century in the team’s season opener. Gambhir’s resignation did not help as Delhi eventually ended up last in the table as the league stage. However, the opener did not play any match for the franchise after stepping down, with reports suggesting he also decided to forego his entire Rs 2.8 crore salary for the season. “A lot of people asked me why I didn’t play after stepping down from captaincy. My reply is simple: I would have played had I been picked.” “A lot of people also ask me where did we go wrong? It is simple again: injuries to key players like [Kagiso] Rabada and [Chris] Morris, inability to build the right team combination, certain players not clicking, the team not playing important moments well and also the inability to handle pressure are all reasons for our failure," Gambhir said. "I have always believed it is bowlers who win you games whatever be the format. I think we lacked there,” he added. Gambhir also denied reports that he is considering retirement from the game in order to contest in the elections for the Delhi and District Cricket Association. Delhi won their final two matches of the season but still ended up with only 10 points from 14 games.

‘I would have played had I been picked’: Gautam Gambhir on not playing after leaving captaincy

<p>South African cricketer AB de Villiers announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, on Wednesday.</p>

<p>&nbsp;The 34-year-old is one of the greatest players of South Africa, having played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect,” he said on Wednesday. “After 114 Test matches, 228 ODI’s and 78 T20 Internationals, it is time for others to take over. I have had my turn, and to be honest, I am tired.</p>

<p>“This is a tough decision, I have thought long and hard about it and I’d like to retire while still playing decent cricket. After the fantastic series wins against India and Australia, now feels like the right time to step aside.</p>

<p>“It would not be right for me to pick and choose where, when and in what format I play for the Proteas. For me, in the green and gold, it must be everything or nothing. I will always be grateful to the coaches and staff of Cricket South Africa for their support through all these years. The most important thank you goes out to all of my team mates throughout my career, I wouldn’t be half the player that I am without the support throughout the years.</p>

<p>“It’s not about earning more somewhere else, it’s about running out of gas and feeling that it is the right time to move on. Everything comes to an end. To the cricket fans around South Africa and the World, thank you for your kindness and generosity, and today, for your understanding.</p>

<p>“I have no plans to play overseas, in fact, I hope I can continue to be available for the Titans in domestic cricket. I will continue to be the biggest supporter of Faf du Plessis and the Proteas.”</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’ve made a big decision today <a href="https://t.co/In0jyquPOK">pic.twitter.com/In0jyquPOK</a></p>
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/999247658995810304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>De Villiers, recently, was part of the Bangalore team in the ongoing 2018 Indian Premier League.</p>

<p>In 12 games, he scored 480 runs which include six half-centuries. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Bangalore failed to make it to the play-offs and is out from the tournament.</p>

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The 34-year-old has played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals.

South African cricketer AB de Villiers announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, on Wednesday. The 34-year-old is one of the greatest players of South Africa, having played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals. “I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect,” he said on Wednesday. “After 114 Test matches, 228 ODI’s and 78 T20 Internationals, it is time for others to take over. I have had my turn, and to be honest, I am tired. “This is a tough decision, I have thought long and hard about it and I’d like to retire while still playing decent cricket. After the fantastic series wins against India and Australia, now feels like the right time to step aside. “It would not be right for me to pick and choose where, when and in what format I play for the Proteas. For me, in the green and gold, it must be everything or nothing. I will always be grateful to the coaches and staff of Cricket South Africa for their support through all these years. The most important thank you goes out to all of my team mates throughout my career, I wouldn’t be half the player that I am without the support throughout the years. “It’s not about earning more somewhere else, it’s about running out of gas and feeling that it is the right time to move on. Everything comes to an end. To the cricket fans around South Africa and the World, thank you for your kindness and generosity, and today, for your understanding. “I have no plans to play overseas, in fact, I hope I can continue to be available for the Titans in domestic cricket. I will continue to be the biggest supporter of Faf du Plessis and the Proteas.” I’ve made a big decision today pic.twitter.com/In0jyquPOK — AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) May 23, 2018 × De Villiers, recently, was part of the Bangalore team in the ongoing 2018 Indian Premier League. In 12 games, he scored 480 runs which include six half-centuries. Bangalore failed to make it to the play-offs and is out from the tournament. ×

AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, says 'I am tired'

<p>Former South African skipper AB de Villiers on Wednesday announced retirement from all form of cricket with immediate effect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He announced the decision on his official Twitter handle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The right-handed batsman said he is 'tired'&nbsp;and is the right time for him to hang his boots.</p>

<p>Minutes after the decision, his Twitter was flooded with people expressing their surprise over the news.</p>

<p>While some praised his way of playing cricket during crucial stages, some termed him an all time entertainer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His IPL team Bangalore also raised a question over his sudden decision but wished him luck for his future endeavours.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sudden but we're confident there was immense thought and contemplation behind the decision. You have to come back to Bengaluru in 2019 ❤️? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mr360?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mr360</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCB?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/dWNlH5Ygoo">https://t.co/dWNlH5Ygoo</a></p>
— Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/999252303650541573?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">AB de Villiers retires from International cricket, one of the two extreme allrounders in cricket along with TM Dilshan. Both batted and bowled in all positions, kept wickets, captained and brilliant fielders. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a></p>
— Daniel Alexander (@daniel86cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/daniel86cricket/status/999249144555425792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The man who showed the world that batting 360° is an easy task. All the best for your future endeavours <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a>, thank you for all the unforgettable memories! <a href="https://t.co/9r4AAQDKfj">pic.twitter.com/9r4AAQDKfj</a></p>
— R P Singh (@rpsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rpsingh/status/999255309519544323?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Breaking?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Breaking</a> AB de Villiers announces retirement from all forms of international cricket.<br />
Thank you for all the entertainment, champ <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a></p>
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaleraosarang/status/999250017914257409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In my opinion, <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a> was world's best batsman across formats in past 7-8 years. Wish he had played more Tests! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/deVilliersRetires?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#deVilliersRetires</a></p>
— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketwallah/status/999251812657090560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 34-year-old is one of the greatest players of South Africa, having played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals.&nbsp;</p>

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His IPL team Bangalore was quick to respond on the news

Former South African skipper AB de Villiers on Wednesday announced retirement from all form of cricket with immediate effect. He announced the decision on his official Twitter handle. The right-handed batsman said he is 'tired' and is the right time for him to hang his boots. Minutes after the decision, his Twitter was flooded with people expressing their surprise over the news. While some praised his way of playing cricket during crucial stages, some termed him an all time entertainer. His IPL team Bangalore also raised a question over his sudden decision but wished him luck for his future endeavours. Sudden but we're confident there was immense thought and contemplation behind the decision. You have to come back to Bengaluru in 2019 ❤️? #Mr360 #PlayBold #RCB https://t.co/dWNlH5Ygoo — Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) May 23, 2018 × AB de Villiers retires from International cricket, one of the two extreme allrounders in cricket along with TM Dilshan. Both batted and bowled in all positions, kept wickets, captained and brilliant fielders. #Cricket — Daniel Alexander (@daniel86cricket) May 23, 2018 × The man who showed the world that batting 360° is an easy task. All the best for your future endeavours @ABdeVilliers17, thank you for all the unforgettable memories! pic.twitter.com/9r4AAQDKfj — R P Singh (@rpsingh) May 23, 2018 × #Breaking AB de Villiers announces retirement from all forms of international cricket. Thank you for all the entertainment, champ @ABdeVilliers17 — Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) May 23, 2018 × In my opinion, @ABdeVilliers17 was world's best batsman across formats in past 7-8 years. Wish he had played more Tests! #deVilliersRetires — Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) May 23, 2018 × The 34-year-old is one of the greatest players of South Africa, having played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals. ×

Twitterati raise concern over AB de Villiers' retirement decision

<p>Abraham Benjamin de Villiers or famously known as AB de Villiers, is South Africa's gem batsman with enviable wicketkeeping skills.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cricketing legend debuted in late 2004 against a visiting England, partnering Graeme Smith as an opener.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his second Test in the same series, he was given the responsibility of wicket-keeping as a stand-in for the injured Mark Boucher.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The duties led to a demotion in his batting line to the lower order. However, the experiment worked well, yielding a fifty on debut, in the second innings of the Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>De Villiers announced his arrival with scores of 92 and 109 while opening the innings, in the last of the 5-Test series</p>

<p>In ODIs though, it took a while for him to find his footing, recording his first half-century in his 15th attempt, against Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was one of South Africa's most consistent performers in all formats. He was one of those players, who had no qualms in being deployed as an opener, middle or lower order batsman, depending on the situation.</p>

<p>The ability to offer dead bats, drives, flicks and pulls and his instinctive nature to innovate in manners, turned de Villiers into one of the most dangerous cricketers.</p>

<p>He has played 228 &nbsp;games and has smashed 9577 runs at an average of 53.5. His highest individual score is 176 runs.</p>

<p>As an accomplished gloveman, he was often called to deputize for Boucher, and with time he was even being touted as his eventual successor.</p>

<p>De Villiers' presence in the batting line up was important in South Africa's return to the pinnacle of cricket, registering historic wins in Australia and going on a 3-year unbeaten run since 2007.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He helped South Africa to a semi-final berth in the 2007 ICC Cricket World World Cup, restoring respectability after a poor showing in the tournament's previous edition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If we see the T20I format, then the cricket legend has 1672 runs in his kitty of just 78 game played.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-retires-from-all-forms-of-cricket-with-immediate-effect-says-i-am-tired-139205">AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, says 'I am tired'</a></strong></p>

<p>Consistent performances over the years gave the Proteas a new ODI captain in de Villiers, when he replaced Graeme Smith in 2011, post the ICC Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After proving his class in the Test arena, he was the number one batsman in ODIs as well as in Tests on a number of occasions.</p>

<p>De Villiers has played 114 Tests and has scored 8765 runs at an average of &nbsp;50.66, with unbeaten 278 being his highest score.</p>

<p>De Villiers was a hot-buy in the Indian T20 League and he started off representing Delhi until he moved to Bangalore for the later seasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AB was also one of the players to have been retained by Bangalore in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 141 games in the Indian Premier League, since its inception in 2008, De Villiers has made 3953 runs in 141 matches. He has smashed three centuries and 28 half-centuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2018, he played 12 games for the Virat kohli-led side and scored 480 runs which include six half-centuries. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Bangalore failed to make it to the play-offs, De Villiers left an impression that there is still a lot of cricket left in him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But, the South African star today announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While some fans raised serious doubts over his retirement decision many wished him luck for his future plans.&nbsp;</p>

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The cricketing legend debuted in late 2004 against a visiting England.

Abraham Benjamin de Villiers or famously known as AB de Villiers, is South Africa's gem batsman with enviable wicketkeeping skills. The cricketing legend debuted in late 2004 against a visiting England, partnering Graeme Smith as an opener. In his second Test in the same series, he was given the responsibility of wicket-keeping as a stand-in for the injured Mark Boucher. The duties led to a demotion in his batting line to the lower order. However, the experiment worked well, yielding a fifty on debut, in the second innings of the Test. De Villiers announced his arrival with scores of 92 and 109 while opening the innings, in the last of the 5-Test series In ODIs though, it took a while for him to find his footing, recording his first half-century in his 15th attempt, against Australia. He was one of South Africa's most consistent performers in all formats. He was one of those players, who had no qualms in being deployed as an opener, middle or lower order batsman, depending on the situation. The ability to offer dead bats, drives, flicks and pulls and his instinctive nature to innovate in manners, turned de Villiers into one of the most dangerous cricketers. He has played 228 games and has smashed 9577 runs at an average of 53.5. His highest individual score is 176 runs. As an accomplished gloveman, he was often called to deputize for Boucher, and with time he was even being touted as his eventual successor. De Villiers' presence in the batting line up was important in South Africa's return to the pinnacle of cricket, registering historic wins in Australia and going on a 3-year unbeaten run since 2007. He helped South Africa to a semi-final berth in the 2007 ICC Cricket World World Cup, restoring respectability after a poor showing in the tournament's previous edition. If we see the T20I format, then the cricket legend has 1672 runs in his kitty of just 78 game played. Also read: AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, says 'I am tired' Consistent performances over the years gave the Proteas a new ODI captain in de Villiers, when he replaced Graeme Smith in 2011, post the ICC Cricket World Cup. After proving his class in the Test arena, he was the number one batsman in ODIs as well as in Tests on a number of occasions. De Villiers has played 114 Tests and has scored 8765 runs at an average of 50.66, with unbeaten 278 being his highest score. De Villiers was a hot-buy in the Indian T20 League and he started off representing Delhi until he moved to Bangalore for the later seasons. AB was also one of the players to have been retained by Bangalore in 2014. In 141 games in the Indian Premier League, since its inception in 2008, De Villiers has made 3953 runs in 141 matches. He has smashed three centuries and 28 half-centuries. In 2018, he played 12 games for the Virat kohli-led side and scored 480 runs which include six half-centuries. Though Bangalore failed to make it to the play-offs, De Villiers left an impression that there is still a lot of cricket left in him. But, the South African star today announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect. While some fans raised serious doubts over his retirement decision many wished him luck for his future plans. ×

AB de Villiers: Mr 360 degree and his cricketing career

<p>Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata in the Eliminator match of Indian Premier League 2018 at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday.</p>

<p>After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match.&nbsp</p>

<p>Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI.&nbsp</p>

<p><strong>Playing XI:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Kolkata: </strong>Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav</p>

<p><strong>Rajasthan:</strong> Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin</p>


Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions

Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata in the Eliminator match of Indian Premier League 2018 at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday. After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions. On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match. Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI. Playing XI: Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Rajasthan: Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin

IPL 2018: Ajinkya Rahane opts to bowl against Kolkata in Eliminator match

<p>Chennai entered the finals of Indian Premier League's (IPL) 11th edition after beating Hyderabad by two wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Chennai wait for the second finalist to be announced, Hyderabad is waiting desperately to face the team who win the eliminator to reach the qualifier 2.</p>

<p>Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata and Ajinkya Rahane's Rajasthan were the other two teams who booked a place in play-offs.</p>

<p>The two teams will lock horns today at Eden Gardens to decide which team will face Hyderabad, who are eager to return to winning ways. &nbsp;</p>

<p>There could not have been a better stadium for the Kolkata to play the eliminator. They have a fantastic record at the venue over the years and have made the stadium their den.</p>

<p>Kuldeep Yadav, Sunil Narine and Piyush Chawla know the pitch and its conditions and the trio will be the toughest acid test for the Rajasthan batting, which has already shown signs of weakness in the group stages.</p>

<p>The batting line has shared their duties throughout the season. Unlike their rivals, no single batsman has been a stand out performer.</p>

<p>Every batsman has chipped in with significant contributions as six of them have scored more than 250 runs during this tournament.</p>

<p>The likes of Nitish Rana, Russell, and Karthik have all chipped in during the group stages to take the team past the finish line.</p>

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<p>On the other hand, Rajasthan has a dismal record at this venue having last won a tie here during the inaugural edition of the IPL and followed it with five straight defeats.</p>

<p>With Rajasthan's hope to reverse the result of their previous outing at the venue, they will enter the ground without their best batsman Jos Buttler and best bowler Ben Stokes.</p>

<p>The move to send Buttler at the top of the order paid rich dividends as he slammed five consecutive fifties - a feat earlier recorded only by Virender Sehwag in 2012 - to send his team to the playoffs.</p>

<p>They are now overly dependent on Sanju Samson, 391 runs, Ajinkya Rahane 328 runs and Rahul Tripathi 206 runs.</p>

<p>The win for any team today would not be a piece of cake but Kolkata will surely look to turn the things in their favour, being the advantage of their home ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Chennai entered the finals of Indian Premier League's (IPL) 11th edition after beating Hyderabad by two wickets. While Chennai wait for the second finalist to be announced, Hyderabad is waiting desperately to face the team who win the eliminator to reach the qualifier 2. Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata and Ajinkya Rahane's Rajasthan were the other two teams who booked a place in play-offs. The two teams will lock horns today at Eden Gardens to decide which team will face Hyderabad, who are eager to return to winning ways. There could not have been a better stadium for the Kolkata to play the eliminator. They have a fantastic record at the venue over the years and have made the stadium their den. Kuldeep Yadav, Sunil Narine and Piyush Chawla know the pitch and its conditions and the trio will be the toughest acid test for the Rajasthan batting, which has already shown signs of weakness in the group stages. The batting line has shared their duties throughout the season. Unlike their rivals, no single batsman has been a stand out performer. Every batsman has chipped in with significant contributions as six of them have scored more than 250 runs during this tournament. The likes of Nitish Rana, Russell, and Karthik have all chipped in during the group stages to take the team past the finish line. × On the other hand, Rajasthan has a dismal record at this venue having last won a tie here during the inaugural edition of the IPL and followed it with five straight defeats. With Rajasthan's hope to reverse the result of their previous outing at the venue, they will enter the ground without their best batsman Jos Buttler and best bowler Ben Stokes. The move to send Buttler at the top of the order paid rich dividends as he slammed five consecutive fifties - a feat earlier recorded only by Virender Sehwag in 2012 - to send his team to the playoffs. They are now overly dependent on Sanju Samson, 391 runs, Ajinkya Rahane 328 runs and Rahul Tripathi 206 runs. The win for any team today would not be a piece of cake but Kolkata will surely look to turn the things in their favour, being the advantage of their home ground.

IPL 2018: Kolkata, Rajasthan battle to cross eliminator hurdle

<p>MS Dhoni-led Chennai has reached the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League as batsman Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to defeat Hyderabad by two wickets in the first Qualifier match on Tuesday at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.</p>

<p>There was a moment when Chennai was 62-6 but South African star batsman Faf du Plessis played a responsible innings and snatched the match from the hands of Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For his splendid batting at a crucial time, Faf was given "Player of the Match" award.</p>

<p>"It's nice to make a contribution tonight. I reflected on the games I've played here in Mumbai. It's a stadium I've enjoyed playing," said South African batsman Faf du Plessis.</p>

<p>He also added that he shocked that how the team "win that game."</p>

<p>He praised the bowling attack of Hyderabad's team with a special mention to spinner Rashid Khan.</p>

<p>Although, du Plessis' 67-run knock was the sole reason for Chennai's victory but Shardul Thakur's 15-run knock off 5 balls did the icing on the cake and confirmed the victory. Earlier in the match, MS Dhoni had won the toss and opted to bowl.</p>


Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to defeat Hyderabad by two wickets in the first Qualifier match

MS Dhoni-led Chennai has reached the finals of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League as batsman Faf du Plessis' unbeaten 67-run knock helped Chennai team to defeat Hyderabad by two wickets in the first Qualifier match on Tuesday at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. There was a moment when Chennai was 62-6 but South African star batsman Faf du Plessis played a responsible innings and snatched the match from the hands of Hyderabad. For his splendid batting at a crucial time, Faf was given "Player of the Match" award. "It's nice to make a contribution tonight. I reflected on the games I've played here in Mumbai. It's a stadium I've enjoyed playing," said South African batsman Faf du Plessis. He also added that he shocked that how the team "win that game." He praised the bowling attack of Hyderabad's team with a special mention to spinner Rashid Khan. Although, du Plessis' 67-run knock was the sole reason for Chennai's victory but Shardul Thakur's 15-run knock off 5 balls did the icing on the cake and confirmed the victory. Earlier in the match, MS Dhoni had won the toss and opted to bowl.

Don't know how we 'win that game', says Faf du Plessis after Chennai reach IPL final

<p>Hyderabad set a 140-run target for Chennai team in the first Qualifier of Indian Premier League 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The score is a bit less than what it was expected in such crucial matches and that too for a team whose batting unit is massive.</p>

<p>Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Deepak Chahar who dismissed Dhawan played an important role in restricting the Hyderabad team. He gave 31 runs in his 4-over spell and took the most impost wicket also of Shikhar Dhawan.</p>

<p>Shreevats Goswami and Manish Pandey scored 12 and 8 runs respectively before losing their wickets to Lungi Ngidi and Ravindra Jadeja.</p>

<p>Skipper Kane Williamson tried to push the run rate but lost his wicket to Shardul Thakur after scoring 24 runs.</p>

<p>Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 12 and 24 runs for the team but Dwayne Bravo out bowled both of batsmen.</p>

<p>Carlos Brathwaite salvaged the team as he scored 43 runs off just 29 balls in a very crucial time.</p>


Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai

Hyderabad set a 140-run target for Chennai team in the first Qualifier of Indian Premier League 2018. The score is a bit less than what it was expected in such crucial matches and that too for a team whose batting unit is massive. Hyderabad team suffered an early jolt in the form of Shikhar Dhawan's wicket on the first ball of the innings but thanks to Windies player Carlos Brathwaite, who played a 43-run knock to help Hyderabad team to set a decent target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai. On the other hand, Deepak Chahar who dismissed Dhawan played an important role in restricting the Hyderabad team. He gave 31 runs in his 4-over spell and took the most impost wicket also of Shikhar Dhawan. Shreevats Goswami and Manish Pandey scored 12 and 8 runs respectively before losing their wickets to Lungi Ngidi and Ravindra Jadeja. Skipper Kane Williamson tried to push the run rate but lost his wicket to Shardul Thakur after scoring 24 runs. Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 12 and 24 runs for the team but Dwayne Bravo out bowled both of batsmen. Carlos Brathwaite salvaged the team as he scored 43 runs off just 29 balls in a very crucial time.

IPL 2018: MS Dhoni-led Chennai restricts Hyderabad to 139 runs in 1st Qualifier

<p>Australian batsman David Warner has wished the Hyderabad team ahead of the first Qualifier of Indian Premier League 2018 which is against Chennai.</p>

<p>In the previous seasons, David Warner has played the skipper's role of Hyderabad but due to his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, he was subsequently banned from the IPL by the BCCI.</p>

<p>Even though he is not the part of Hyderabad team still, he has always given his support throughout the season.</p>

<p>Just before the first Qualifier, Warner has tweeted, "Good luck to @SunRisers tonight, keep playing well gentlemen. Been simply outstanding and being well lead by The great man himself Kane."</p>

<p>In the absence of David Warner, Kane Williamson&nbsp;is leading the squad and has proved his calibre&nbsp;and leadership skills.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good luck to <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunRisers</a> tonight, keep playing well gentlemen. Been simply outstanding and being well lead by The great man himself Kane ??</p>
— David Warner (@davidwarner31) <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31/status/998901613816299520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Warner was replaced by an explosive opener Alex Hales of England.&nbsp;</p>


Just before the first Qualifier, Warner has praised Kane Williamson's leadership qualities

Australian batsman David Warner has wished the Hyderabad team ahead of the first Qualifier of Indian Premier League 2018 which is against Chennai. In the previous seasons, David Warner has played the skipper's role of Hyderabad but due to his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, he was subsequently banned from the IPL by the BCCI. Even though he is not the part of Hyderabad team still, he has always given his support throughout the season. Just before the first Qualifier, Warner has tweeted, "Good luck to @SunRisers tonight, keep playing well gentlemen. Been simply outstanding and being well lead by The great man himself Kane." In the absence of David Warner, Kane Williamson is leading the squad and has proved his calibre and leadership skills. Good luck to @SunRisers tonight, keep playing well gentlemen. Been simply outstanding and being well lead by The great man himself Kane ?? — David Warner (@davidwarner31) May 22, 2018 × Warner was replaced by an explosive opener Alex Hales of England.

IPL 2018: David Warner wishes Hyderabad team 'good luck' ahead of first Qualifier

<p>Chennai won the toss and opted to bowl&nbspin the first Qualifier of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League 2018 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Tuesday.</p>

<p>After winning the toss, MS Dhoni said, "We have chased well in the tournament." He also mentioned that chasing is a bit easier in the second innings.</p>

<p>There is only one change in the Chennai's squad, Shane Watson has been included at the place of Sam Billings.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Kane Williamson said that the Hyderabad team is trying their best to adapt the conditions of Wankhede Stadium.</p>

<p>A few hours back, it was found that there were some wear and tear in the good length area of the pitch, which means spinners will have an upper hand in the match, especially in the second innings.</p>

<p>Pressure is definitely on both the sides as the winner will book a finale berth.</p>

<p>Hyderabad has entered the field with the same squad.</p>

<p><strong>Playing XI:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Chennai:</strong> Ambati Rayudu, Shane Watson, Suresh Raina, Faf du Plessis, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Harbhajan Singh, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Lungi Ngidi</p>

<p><strong>Hyderabad:</strong> Shikhar Dhawan, Shreevats Goswami(w), Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Carlos Brathwaite, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma</p>


There is only one change in the Chennai's squad, Shane Watson has been included at the place of Sam Billings

Chennai won the toss and opted to bowl&nbspin the first Qualifier of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League 2018 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Tuesday. After winning the toss, MS Dhoni said, "We have chased well in the tournament." He also mentioned that chasing is a bit easier in the second innings. There is only one change in the Chennai's squad, Shane Watson has been included at the place of Sam Billings. On the other hand, Kane Williamson said that the Hyderabad team is trying their best to adapt the conditions of Wankhede Stadium. A few hours back, it was found that there were some wear and tear in the good length area of the pitch, which means spinners will have an upper hand in the match, especially in the second innings. Pressure is definitely on both the sides as the winner will book a finale berth. Hyderabad has entered the field with the same squad. Playing XI: Chennai: Ambati Rayudu, Shane Watson, Suresh Raina, Faf du Plessis, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Harbhajan Singh, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Lungi Ngidi Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Shreevats Goswami(w), Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Carlos Brathwaite, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

IPL 2018: MS Dhoni opts to field in Qualifier 1 against Hyderabad

<h2>WION's pick of the week</h2>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0 padding:0 4px"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BizrITqABnM/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">Orgulho do papai!! ? @enzoalvesv Isso aqui é uma familia!!! @realmadrid ❤️⚽️</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marcelotwelve/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Marcelo Vieira Jr.</a> (@marcelotwelve) on <time datetime="2018-05-15T18:04:53+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">May 15, 2018 at 11:04am PDT</time></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2018-do-you-know-that-first-fifa-trophy-was-stolen-and-never-recovered-137912">FIFA 2018: Do you know that first FIFA trophy was stolen and never recovered</a></p>

<p>In 1983, the original Jules Rimet trophy was stolen from the display window and never recovered</p>

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<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-kl-rahul--a-rejuvenated-and-repackaged-batting-power-house-137938">Opinion: KL Rahul – A rejuvenated and repackaged batting power house</a></p>

<p>KL Rahul has been a treat to watch and I am sure that going forward he would play an all-important role for India in all formats of the game</p>

<h5 title="Watch: AB de Villiers' Spiderman-like stunt to dismiss Alex Hales"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-after-nadal--federer-who-will-be-the-next-atp-superstar-137606">Opinion: After Nadal & Federer, who will be the next ATP superstar?</a></h5>

<p>It has been a decade now that men's Tennis is waiting for its next superstar</p>

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<p>Shivangi said that she inspired by Arunima Sinha, who was the first Indian amputee to scale the nearly 29,000 ft peak</p>

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<h5 title="'It is a difficult day,' says teary-eyed Andres Iniesta during farewell ceremony"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/'it-is-a-difficult-day,'-says-teary-eyed-andres-iniesta-during-farewell-ceremony-138614">'It is a difficult day,' says teary-eyed Andres Iniesta during farewell ceremony</a></h5>

<p>Andres Iniesta bid farewell to his boyhood club FC Barcelona. He has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou & has lifted 32 trophies</p>

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<h2>FIFA 2018</h2>

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<p>Created in 1960 by the four Panini brothers, the business has an exclusive contract with world football's governing body FIFA and its first World Cup album dates back to 1970</p>

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<p>Luis Suarez took a nibble from Italy's Giorgio Chiellini shoulder and was suspended for four months from all football-related activities</p>

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<p>The eliminated Azzurri will not brighten the tournament, but Italians will still make the cup shine</p>

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<p>The 24-year-old was yet to make his England debut but was called up by manager Gareth Southgate for friendlies in March</p>

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<p>Mario Gotze has been ruled out of Germany's squad for the upcoming edition of football World Cup</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/DFB_Team_EN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DFB_Team_EN</a> won the <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FIFAWorldCup</a> with this extra time beauty by Mario Gotze! What's everyones predictions for the winning team this year? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/worldcup2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#worldcup2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCupAtTheRegency?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCupAtTheRegency</a> tickets here >> <a href="https://t.co/WP8KRD9MhV">https://t.co/WP8KRD9MhV</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCupAtTheAmbler?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCupAtTheAmbler</a> tickets here >> <a href="https://t.co/8REtlUfSbc">https://t.co/8REtlUfSbc</a> <a href="https://t.co/0qdcyGUNae">pic.twitter.com/0qdcyGUNae</a></p>
— Sedulo Manchester (@SeduloMCR) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeduloMCR/status/994540143683031040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2018-england-fans-warned-over-flag-waving-at-world-cup-in-russia-137434">FIFA 2018: England fans warned over flag-waving at World Cup in Russia</a></p>

<p>Tensions are high between Britain and Russia over the poisoning of former double agent Yuri Skripal and his daughter in the English city of Salisbury earlier this year</p>

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<p>He has been out of action since spraining his ankle and fracturing his fifth metatarsal on Feb. 25, which led him to undergo surgery in Brazil</p>

<h5 title="FIFA 2018: Argentina apologises for manual on seducing Russian women"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2018-argentina-apologises-for-manual-on-seducing-russian-women-137639">FIFA 2018: Argentina apologises for manual on seducing Russian women</a></h5>

<p>More than 40,000 Argentines have bought tickets for matches in the tournament that kicks off in Moscow on June 14</p>

<h2>Football</h2>

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<p>Antonio Conte's team held on for a 1-0 win over United at Wembley as Eden Hazard's first-half penalty was followed by a determined defensive display from the Blues after the interval</p>

<h5 title="Michael Carrick makes immediate switch to coaching role at Manchester United"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-carrick-makes-immediate-switch-to-coaching-role-at-manchester-united-137029">Michael Carrick makes immediate switch to coaching role at Manchester United</a></h5>

<p>Michael Carrick is making an immediate switch from Manchester United's playing squad to the coaching team in time for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea</p>

<h2>Cricket</h2>

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<p>Cameron Bancroft has been cleared to play club cricket in Western Australia</p>

<h5 title="'Proper big dog' coming to County, Moeen Ali on Virat Kohli"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/proper-big-dog-coming-to-county-moeen-ali-on-virat-kohli-137462">'Proper big dog' coming to County, Moeen Ali on Virat Kohli</a></h5>

<p>Moeen and his compatriot Chris Woakes are playing under Kohli for the Bangalore in IPL</p>

<h5 title="ICC may consider scrapping toss in Test cricket"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-may-consider-scrapping-toss-in-test-cricket-137768">ICC may consider scrapping toss in Test cricket</a></h5>

<p>Latest reports suggest that the ICC committee is ready to re-enter the topic</p>

<h2>Tennis</h2>

<h5 title="Italian Open: Elina Svitolina outplays Simona Halep to defend title"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-elina-svitolina-outplays-simona-halep-to-defend-title-138443">Italian Open: Elina Svitolina outplays Simona Halep to defend title</a></h5>

<p>Elina Svitolina successfully defended her&nbsp;Italian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;title on Sunday with a dominant 6-0 6-4 victory over an out-of-sorts Simona Halep</p>

<h5 title="Italian Open: Rafael Nadal wins eighth Rome Masters title after stunning comeback"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-rafael-nadal-wins-eighth-rome-masters-title-after-stunning-comeback-138468">Italian Open: Rafael Nadal wins eighth Rome Masters title after stunning comeback</a></h5>

<p>Rafael Nadal won the Rome Masters for the eighth time as he defeated defending champion Alexander Zverev</p>

<h5 title="Watch: Czech tennis player Pliskova 'smashes' umpire's chair"><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-karolina-pliskova-smashes-umpires-chair-after-losing-to-maria-sakkari-at-italian-open-137500">Watch: Czech tennis player Pliskova 'smashes' umpire's chair</a></h5>

<p>Pliskova was furious when 42nd-ranked Sakkari was given the advantage and also a breakpoint at a crucial stage of the match</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Holy moly Pliskova is the real MVP! Well done, she was right about that call! it was 10km in! <a href="https://t.co/YgJ5MHgmYo">pic.twitter.com/YgJ5MHgmYo</a></p>
— LorenaPopa? ??‍♀️ (@popalorena) <a href="https://twitter.com/popalorena/status/996735228394835969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/italys-elia-viviani-wins-giro-ditalia-13th-stage-138029">Italy's Elia Viviani wins Giro d'Italia 13th stage</a></p>

<p>Italy's Elia Viviani of the Quick Step team dominated a sprint finish for the Giro d'Italia 13th stage</p>


Weekly compilation of sports and other related news (May 14 to May 20)

WION's pick of the week Watch: Marcelo's son Enzo Vieira stuns Real Madrid players with impressive head tennis show Orgulho do papai!! ? @enzoalvesv Isso aqui é uma familia!!! @realmadrid ❤️⚽️ A post shared by Marcelo Vieira Jr. (@marcelotwelve) on May 15, 2018 at 11:04am PDT × FIFA 2018: Do you know that first FIFA trophy was stolen and never recovered In 1983, the original Jules Rimet trophy was stolen from the display window and never recovered × × Opinion: KL Rahul – A rejuvenated and repackaged batting power house KL Rahul has been a treat to watch and I am sure that going forward he would play an all-important role for India in all formats of the game Opinion: After Nadal & Federer, who will be the next ATP superstar? It has been a decade now that men's Tennis is waiting for its next superstar Shivangi Pathak becomes youngest woman to scale Mt Everest Shivangi said that she inspired by Arunima Sinha, who was the first Indian amputee to scale the nearly 29,000 ft peak Meet the top four teams of IPL 2018 'It is a difficult day,' says teary-eyed Andres Iniesta during farewell ceremony Andres Iniesta bid farewell to his boyhood club FC Barcelona. He has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou & has lifted 32 trophies × FIFA 2018 FIFA 2018: World Cup fever inspires Panini stickers craze Created in 1960 by the four Panini brothers, the business has an exclusive contract with world football's governing body FIFA and its first World Cup album dates back to 1970 Throwback to Luis Suarez's biting Chiellini in FIFA 2014: 'Anyone got a toothpick, Chiellini stuck in my teeth' Luis Suarez took a nibble from Italy's Giorgio Chiellini shoulder and was suspended for four months from all football-related activities FIFA 2018: Italy not going to World Cup but World Cup comes to Italy The eliminated Azzurri will not brighten the tournament, but Italians will still make the cup shine England defender Mawson ruled out of FIFA World Cup The 24-year-old was yet to make his England debut but was called up by manager Gareth Southgate for friendlies in March Mario Gotze ruled out of Germany's squad for FIFA 2018 Mario Gotze has been ruled out of Germany's squad for the upcoming edition of football World Cup He won't be there at FIFA 2018 but let's relive Mario Gotze's winning goal from 2014 @DFB_Team_EN won the @FIFAWorldCup with this extra time beauty by Mario Gotze! What's everyones predictions for the winning team this year? #worldcup2018 #WorldCupAtTheRegency tickets here >> https://t.co/WP8KRD9MhV #WorldCupAtTheAmbler tickets here >> https://t.co/8REtlUfSbc pic.twitter.com/0qdcyGUNae — Sedulo Manchester (@SeduloMCR) May 10, 2018 × FIFA 2018: England fans warned over flag-waving at World Cup in Russia Tensions are high between Britain and Russia over the poisoning of former double agent Yuri Skripal and his daughter in the English city of Salisbury earlier this year Neymar's foot injury worries him, as he prepares to return He has been out of action since spraining his ankle and fracturing his fifth metatarsal on Feb. 25, which led him to undergo surgery in Brazil FIFA 2018: Argentina apologises for manual on seducing Russian women More than 40,000 Argentines have bought tickets for matches in the tournament that kicks off in Moscow on June 14 Football Chelsea players celebrate FA Cup victory against Manchester United Antonio Conte's team held on for a 1-0 win over United at Wembley as Eden Hazard's first-half penalty was followed by a determined defensive display from the Blues after the interval Michael Carrick makes immediate switch to coaching role at Manchester United Michael Carrick is making an immediate switch from Manchester United's playing squad to the coaching team in time for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea Cricket Cameron Bancroft been cleared to play club cricket Cameron Bancroft has been cleared to play club cricket in Western Australia 'Proper big dog' coming to County, Moeen Ali on Virat Kohli Moeen and his compatriot Chris Woakes are playing under Kohli for the Bangalore in IPL ICC may consider scrapping toss in Test cricket Latest reports suggest that the ICC committee is ready to re-enter the topic Tennis Italian Open: Elina Svitolina outplays Simona Halep to defend title Elina Svitolina successfully defended her Italian Open title on Sunday with a dominant 6-0 6-4 victory over an out-of-sorts Simona Halep Italian Open: Rafael Nadal wins eighth Rome Masters title after stunning comeback Rafael Nadal won the Rome Masters for the eighth time as he defeated defending champion Alexander Zverev Watch: Czech tennis player Pliskova 'smashes' umpire's chair Pliskova was furious when 42nd-ranked Sakkari was given the advantage and also a breakpoint at a crucial stage of the match Holy moly Pliskova is the real MVP! Well done, she was right about that call! it was 10km in! pic.twitter.com/YgJ5MHgmYo — LorenaPopa? ??‍♀️ (@popalorena) May 16, 2018 × Italy's Elia Viviani wins Giro d'Italia 13th stage Italy's Elia Viviani of the Quick Step team dominated a sprint finish for the Giro d'Italia 13th stage

WION Sports News: Top sports results this week

<p>MS Dhoni sent a warning before the knock-out matches of Indian Premier League when he displayed a magnificent batting show against Punjab in the last league match.</p>

<p>He scored 16 runs off seven balls and finished the match in his signature style, with a six.</p>

<p>Chennai not only won the game by five wickets but also ended Punjab's hope to qualify for the play-offs.</p>

<p>The clash was important for Punjab as they needed a victory of +53-run margin but it seemed impossible against the massive batting line-up of Chennai.</p>

<p>After winning the game, MS Dhoni enjoyed the victory by playing with his daughter Ziva.&nbsp</p>

<p>In the recent viral video, a beautiful father-daughter moment was captured and daddy Dhoni looked happy when Ziva was playing with his cap.</p>

<p><em>Watch the video here:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">MS Dhoni playing with daughter <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ziva?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ziva</a> during post match presentation ? ?, Wish <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bhogleharsha</a> could have asked Dhoni to bring her daughter to have a fun chat ?<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SaakshiSRawat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SaakshiSRawat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvKXIP?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvKXIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/JjrX3yW7PS">pic.twitter.com/JjrX3yW7PS</a></p>
— Sushant Kumar Nahak (@sushantkoko) <a href="https://twitter.com/sushantkoko/status/998288683575865345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The top two teams of IPL 2018, i.e. Chennai and Hyderabad, will meet each other in the Qualifier 1 on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The winner of the match will go directly to the IPL 2018 final while the loser will get one more chance.</p>

<p>The team placed third and fourth in IPL 2018 points table will meet in the Eliminator on Wednesday, May 23.</p>


After winning the game, MS Dhoni enjoyed the victory by playing with his daughter Ziva

MS Dhoni sent a warning before the knock-out matches of Indian Premier League when he displayed a magnificent batting show against Punjab in the last league match. He scored 16 runs off seven balls and finished the match in his signature style, with a six. Chennai not only won the game by five wickets but also ended Punjab's hope to qualify for the play-offs. The clash was important for Punjab as they needed a victory of +53-run margin but it seemed impossible against the massive batting line-up of Chennai. After winning the game, MS Dhoni enjoyed the victory by playing with his daughter Ziva. In the recent viral video, a beautiful father-daughter moment was captured and daddy Dhoni looked happy when Ziva was playing with his cap. Watch the video here: MS Dhoni playing with daughter #Ziva during post match presentation ? ?, Wish @bhogleharsha could have asked Dhoni to bring her daughter to have a fun chat ?@msdhoni @SaakshiSRawat #IPL2018 #CSKvKXIP @IPL #WhistlePodu #Yellove @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/JjrX3yW7PS — Sushant Kumar Nahak (@sushantkoko) May 20, 2018 × The top two teams of IPL 2018, i.e. Chennai and Hyderabad, will meet each other in the Qualifier 1 on Tuesday. The winner of the match will go directly to the IPL 2018 final while the loser will get one more chance. The team placed third and fourth in IPL 2018 points table will meet in the Eliminator on Wednesday, May 23.

Watch: Little Ziva dances with MS Dhoni to celebrate Chennai's win against Punjab

<p>The eleventh edition of India Premier League has entered its last week and the franchise is all set for the knockout stage.</p>

<p>The top four teams - Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata and Rajasthan- have made it to the tournament’s play-offs.</p>

<p>After the grueling and deciding week, Mumbai and Punjab have been eliminated by Delhi and Chennai respectively.</p>

<p>Although, Punjab did not qualify in the tournament's play-off but its co-owner Preity Zinta was caught on camera saying that she is 'happy.'</p>

<p>In a viral video, Preity Zinta said, "I am just very happy that Mumbai is not going to the finals … really happy."</p>

<p>The reason for her happiness was the elimination of&nbsp;the rival team Mumbai</p>

<p>Defending Champions Mumbai lost the last chance to book a play-off berth as they were kicked out of the tournament by Delhi team that gave a joyous moment to Bollywood's actress Preity Zinta.</p>

<p><em>Here is the video:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Did <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PreityZinta?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PreityZinta</a> just say “I am just very happy that Mumbai is not going to the finals..Really happy” ? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvKXIP?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvKXIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvsDD?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvsDD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/KWaxSUZYZh">pic.twitter.com/KWaxSUZYZh</a></p>
— Jo (@jogtweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/jogtweets/status/998233626092457984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Preity Zinta : "I'm just very happy that Mumbai is knocked out...very happy" ...??<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cskvkxip?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cskvkxip</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KXIP?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KXIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://t.co/jCKywZ4vep">pic.twitter.com/jCKywZ4vep</a></p>
— LinksInd (@LinksInd1) <a href="https://twitter.com/LinksInd1/status/998277392731799552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The top two teams of IPL 2018, i.e. Chennai and Hyderabad, will meet each other in the Qualifier 1 on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The winner of the match will go directly to the IPL 2018 final while the loser will get one more chance.</p>

<p>The team placed third and fourth in IPL 2018 points table will meet in the Eliminator on Wednesday, May 23.</p>

<p>The winner of the match will enter the Qualifier 2, where they will clash with the losing side of Qualifier 1. That match will take place on Friday, May 25.</p>

<p>The winners of Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2 will clash for the IPL 2018 trophy on Sunday, May 27.</p>


Although, Punjab did not qualify in the tournament's play-off but franchise co-owner Preity Zinta was caught on camera saying that she is 'happy.'

The eleventh edition of India Premier League has entered its last week and the franchise is all set for the knockout stage. The top four teams - Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata and Rajasthan- have made it to the tournament’s play-offs. After the grueling and deciding week, Mumbai and Punjab have been eliminated by Delhi and Chennai respectively. Although, Punjab did not qualify in the tournament's play-off but its co-owner Preity Zinta was caught on camera saying that she is 'happy.' In a viral video, Preity Zinta said, "I am just very happy that Mumbai is not going to the finals … really happy." The reason for her happiness was the elimination of the rival team Mumbai Defending Champions Mumbai lost the last chance to book a play-off berth as they were kicked out of the tournament by Delhi team that gave a joyous moment to Bollywood's actress Preity Zinta. Here is the video: Did #PreityZinta just say “I am just very happy that Mumbai is not going to the finals..Really happy” ? #CSKvKXIP #MIvsDD #IPL #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/KWaxSUZYZh — Jo (@jogtweets) May 20, 2018 × Preity Zinta : "I'm just very happy that Mumbai is knocked out...very happy" ...??#cskvkxip #KXIP #MumbaiIndians pic.twitter.com/jCKywZ4vep — LinksInd (@LinksInd1) May 20, 2018 × The top two teams of IPL 2018, i.e. Chennai and Hyderabad, will meet each other in the Qualifier 1 on Tuesday. The winner of the match will go directly to the IPL 2018 final while the loser will get one more chance. The team placed third and fourth in IPL 2018 points table will meet in the Eliminator on Wednesday, May 23. The winner of the match will enter the Qualifier 2, where they will clash with the losing side of Qualifier 1. That match will take place on Friday, May 25. The winners of Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2 will clash for the IPL 2018 trophy on Sunday, May 27.

Watch: After Mumbai's exit from IPL, Punjab's Preity Zinta says, 'She is very happy'

<p>"Size does matter" – It is a well-versed quote. But as the group stage of IPL-2018 is over and you take a glance at the outcome, you would strongly disagree with this quote.</p>

<p>IPL-2018 endorses once again that in sports what actually matters is that how you gel with each other in a team composition and how you deliver on the ground. The stature and big players won't really help if this basic idea is missing.</p>

<p>Look at the qualifiers for the playoffs. Chennai is back in the league after suspension of two years and played well right from the beginning. Dhoni is back with his old mojo, both as a captain and player. He stood and delivered.</p>

<p>Hyderabad team has been the unexpected table topper. They are the only team in the tournament which is led by an overseas player, Kane Williamson. Before the start of IPL, Hyderabad got a jolt when their coveted skipper David Warner was ruled out of the tournament. But Williamson has been leading the side from the front and using whatever resources he has with clinical efficiency.</p>

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<h5>Rajasthan and Kolkata are led by Ajinkya Rahane and Dinesh Karthik and both of them are not even India's regular for One Day International and T-20</h5>
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<p>Other two qualifiers Rajasthan and Kolkata are led by Ajinkya Rahane and Dinesh Karthik and both of them are not even India's regular for One Day International and T-20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rajasthan also received a setback like Hyderabad when the big name and their nominated skipper Steve Smith was ruled out. Ajinkya was the last minute pick for the side and not much was expected from Rajasthan team.</p>

<p>Rajasthan, however, made to the next stage albeit with difficulty. Shahrukh's franchise did not pick their regular skipper Gautam Gambhir this time and Karthik was leading any IPL side for the first time. Kolkata had few anxious moments at the group stage but Dinesh Karthik led his troop well and with the support of competent guidance of Jacques Kallis.</p>

<p>On contrary to above, all the big name bit the dust. Mumbai Indians, arguably the most coveted team as it is owned by the richest man in India and mentored by none other than the legend Sachin Tendulkar has been knocked out. Mumbai team has been supported and coached by a legion of players like Mahela Jayawardene, Robin Singh and Malinga but nothing helped.</p>

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<h5>Virat Kohli could not sail his side through, despite having names like AB deVilliers (ABD), Chahal, Brendon McCullum and Umesh Yadav in the line-up of his side</h5>
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<p>Unarguably the most decorated player in the recent time Virat Kohli could not sail his side through, despite having names like AB deVilliers (ABD), Chahal, Brendon McCullum and Umesh Yadav in the line-up of his side.</p>

<p>Kohli and ABD are the two most destructive batsmen in the shorter version of the game. They batted well as such but the team failed to deliver the final punch.</p>

<p>Delhi’s poor run in IPL continued in 2018 as well. The team coached and mentored by the legendary cricketer Ricky Ponting. Gautam Gambhir, who in past lifted trophy twice as Kolkata's skipper was Delhi's skipper to start with but failed miserably.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The destructive Glen Maxwell, playing for Delhi was a big-time failure. Though Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer batted well but the failure of Gambhir and Maxwell was proved to be costly for the side.</p>

<p>Ashwin-led Punjab team has been knocked out despite having players like Gayle, KL Rahul and Yuvraj Singh in the line-up. The great Virender Sehwag also could not turn things around for the side. The failure of Gayle and Yuvraj (two of the biggest name in the history of T-20) hit the team hard.</p>

<p>The message is clear. You need to deliver on the ground to get success. The great Australian coach John Buchanan once said that “You may have limitations, but may not have the limit. Just go and apply yourself”. This quote of Buchanan is so much a truth here.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


IPL-2018 endorses once again that in sports what actually matters is that how you gel with each other in a team composition and how you deliver on the ground

"Size does matter" – It is a well-versed quote. But as the group stage of IPL-2018 is over and you take a glance at the outcome, you would strongly disagree with this quote. IPL-2018 endorses once again that in sports what actually matters is that how you gel with each other in a team composition and how you deliver on the ground. The stature and big players won't really help if this basic idea is missing. Look at the qualifiers for the playoffs. Chennai is back in the league after suspension of two years and played well right from the beginning. Dhoni is back with his old mojo, both as a captain and player. He stood and delivered. Hyderabad team has been the unexpected table topper. They are the only team in the tournament which is led by an overseas player, Kane Williamson. Before the start of IPL, Hyderabad got a jolt when their coveted skipper David Warner was ruled out of the tournament. But Williamson has been leading the side from the front and using whatever resources he has with clinical efficiency. Rajasthan and Kolkata are led by Ajinkya Rahane and Dinesh Karthik and both of them are not even India's regular for One Day International and T-20 × Other two qualifiers Rajasthan and Kolkata are led by Ajinkya Rahane and Dinesh Karthik and both of them are not even India's regular for One Day International and T-20. Rajasthan also received a setback like Hyderabad when the big name and their nominated skipper Steve Smith was ruled out. Ajinkya was the last minute pick for the side and not much was expected from Rajasthan team. Rajasthan, however, made to the next stage albeit with difficulty. Shahrukh's franchise did not pick their regular skipper Gautam Gambhir this time and Karthik was leading any IPL side for the first time. Kolkata had few anxious moments at the group stage but Dinesh Karthik led his troop well and with the support of competent guidance of Jacques Kallis. On contrary to above, all the big name bit the dust. Mumbai Indians, arguably the most coveted team as it is owned by the richest man in India and mentored by none other than the legend Sachin Tendulkar has been knocked out. Mumbai team has been supported and coached by a legion of players like Mahela Jayawardene, Robin Singh and Malinga but nothing helped. Virat Kohli could not sail his side through, despite having names like AB deVilliers (ABD), Chahal, Brendon McCullum and Umesh Yadav in the line-up of his side × Unarguably the most decorated player in the recent time Virat Kohli could not sail his side through, despite having names like AB deVilliers (ABD), Chahal, Brendon McCullum and Umesh Yadav in the line-up of his side. Kohli and ABD are the two most destructive batsmen in the shorter version of the game. They batted well as such but the team failed to deliver the final punch. Delhi’s poor run in IPL continued in 2018 as well. The team coached and mentored by the legendary cricketer Ricky Ponting. Gautam Gambhir, who in past lifted trophy twice as Kolkata's skipper was Delhi's skipper to start with but failed miserably. The destructive Glen Maxwell, playing for Delhi was a big-time failure. Though Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer batted well but the failure of Gambhir and Maxwell was proved to be costly for the side. Ashwin-led Punjab team has been knocked out despite having players like Gayle, KL Rahul and Yuvraj Singh in the line-up. The great Virender Sehwag also could not turn things around for the side. The failure of Gayle and Yuvraj (two of the biggest name in the history of T-20) hit the team hard. The message is clear. You need to deliver on the ground to get success. The great Australian coach John Buchanan once said that “You may have limitations, but may not have the limit. Just go and apply yourself”. This quote of Buchanan is so much a truth here. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Takeaways from IPL 2018 - Size doesn't really matter

<p>The Indian Premier League got its third team which managed to book its berth in the play-offs race in form of Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata.</p>

<p>The Shah Rukh Khan co-owned franchise defeated table-toppers Hyderabad by five wickets at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Saturday.</p>

<p>Chris Lynn and Robin Uthappa played a perfect innings to save Kolkata in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.<br />
&nbsp<br />
Lynn smashed 55 runs in just 43 balls before giving away his wicket to S Kaul.</p>

<p>It was after that, Uthappa continued the momentum and took Kolkata a step near to victory.&nbsp</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Hyderabad bowlers have had another lacklustre game after they failed to swing wickets in their favour.&nbsp</p>

<p>Death-overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar failed to take any wickets and gave away 33 runs in four overs bowled.&nbsp</p>

<p>Despite getting a flying start, table-toppers Hyderabad were restricted for mere 172 runs by the Kolkata bowlers&nbsp</p>

<p>Shikhar Dhawan and Shreevats Goswami opened for Hyderabad and established 79 runs partnership before Kuldeep Yadav broke the bond.&nbsp</p>

<p>Goswami was sent back to the pavilion after making 35 runs off 26 balls.<br />
&nbsp<br />
Dhawan continued the attack to reach his half-century, before being LBW.</p>

<p>Skipper Kane Williamson also smashed 36 runs off 16 balls. His inning included one boundary and three sixes.&nbsp</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna came out as a trump card for Kolkata as he took four crucial wickets to restrict Hyderabad from setting a massive total.</p>

<p>In four overs bowled, Prasidh gave 30 runs which included two wides also.</p>

<p>Russell, &nbspNarine, Yadav and Searles took one wicket apiece.</p>

<p>Yadav today turned out to be the costliest player for Kolkata as he gave 35 runs in four overs at an economy of 8.75.</p>


Lynn smashed 55 runs in just 43 balls before giving away his wicket to S Kaul.

The Indian Premier League got its third team which managed to book its berth in the play-offs race in form of Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata. The Shah Rukh Khan co-owned franchise defeated table-toppers Hyderabad by five wickets at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Saturday. Chris Lynn and Robin Uthappa played a perfect innings to save Kolkata in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. Lynn smashed 55 runs in just 43 balls before giving away his wicket to S Kaul. It was after that, Uthappa continued the momentum and took Kolkata a step near to victory. Meanwhile, Hyderabad bowlers have had another lacklustre game after they failed to swing wickets in their favour. Death-overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar failed to take any wickets and gave away 33 runs in four overs bowled. Despite getting a flying start, table-toppers Hyderabad were restricted for mere 172 runs by the Kolkata bowlers Shikhar Dhawan and Shreevats Goswami opened for Hyderabad and established 79 runs partnership before Kuldeep Yadav broke the bond. Goswami was sent back to the pavilion after making 35 runs off 26 balls. Dhawan continued the attack to reach his half-century, before being LBW. Skipper Kane Williamson also smashed 36 runs off 16 balls. His inning included one boundary and three sixes. Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna came out as a trump card for Kolkata as he took four crucial wickets to restrict Hyderabad from setting a massive total. In four overs bowled, Prasidh gave 30 runs which included two wides also. Russell, &nbspNarine, Yadav and Searles took one wicket apiece. Yadav today turned out to be the costliest player for Kolkata as he gave 35 runs in four overs at an economy of 8.75.

IPL 2018: Kolkata make it to play-offs, beat Hyderabad by 5 wickets

<p>Whenever I see KL Rahul, I recall India-Australia Test match on Boxing Day, 26th December 2014. KL Rahul, then 22 years old made his Test debut and he was literally nervous. Rahul got succumbed to the grandeur of the occasion after all, it is not easy to make your international debut against Australia, in Australia, and at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.</p>

<p>KL Rahul played an inexplicable shot right in the beginning of the inning and threw his wicket. I remember headlines in a newspaper next day saying "Tell us Rahul, What were you actually trying to do?" It explains that how bizarre Rahul's shot was.</p>

<p>But then these adverse situations only distinguish a champion from others. KL Rahul did an immediate course correction after the debacle at Melbourne and came back strongly in the very next Test at Sydney as he slammed a century there.</p>

<p>KL Rahul has been impressive in all format of international ever since that century at Sydney. He is one of those rare batsmen, who have scored centuries in all three formats of international Cricket.</p>

<p>Having missed IPL 2017 due to injury, IPL 2018 has been a turning point of Rahul's career and it has certainly catapulted him into an even upper league. KL Rahul has been one of the most impactful players this IPL. The way KL Rahul almost single-handedly pulled match for his side against team Mumbai on 16th May was actually a mark of a true champion.</p>

<p>In the opening game of Punjab against Delhi at IPL 2018 itself, Rahul made a solid statement by smashing a fifty in just 14 balls and he has been among runs consistently and he alone is taking whole batting burden for his side.</p>

<p>It clearly endorses one thing that KL Rahul is set to play a major role for Team India in all formats in days to come. He, per se in the league of Virat Kohli in a sense that he can excel all formats of the games and this is where he scores well over the likes of Ajinkya Rahane (who is more suited for Test) and Rohit Sharma (who is more suited in T-20 and ODI).</p>

<p>KL is somewhat is on Virender Sehwag's template. He is free flowing and is a natural hitter of the ball. At the top of the order, his brisk batting can make a huge difference even the Test. Remember how one short but quick-fire innings from Sehwag set the tone for the historic chase against England in 2008 at Chennai Test. Over the years, Sehwag did one job for India with perfection and that was putting the pressure back on bowling attack by his attacking play. Now Rahul fits in that role.</p>

<p>KL Rahul has been a treat to watch and I am sure that going forward he would play an all-important role for India in all formats of the game. It is not an hyperbole but in my opinion, after watching Rahul's show so far in IPL 2018, overall KL Rahul is only second to Virat Kohli in Indian batting line-up, if we consider potential impact which Rahul can make in the all three formats put together.</p>

<p>He can be a key player when India will tour England this summer for the forthcoming series down under in Australia and World Cup next year as well. Let's wait and watch.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


KL Rahul has been a treat to watch and I am sure that going forward he would play an all-important role for India in all formats of the game

Whenever I see KL Rahul, I recall India-Australia Test match on Boxing Day, 26th December 2014. KL Rahul, then 22 years old made his Test debut and he was literally nervous. Rahul got succumbed to the grandeur of the occasion after all, it is not easy to make your international debut against Australia, in Australia, and at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. KL Rahul played an inexplicable shot right in the beginning of the inning and threw his wicket. I remember headlines in a newspaper next day saying "Tell us Rahul, What were you actually trying to do?" It explains that how bizarre Rahul's shot was. But then these adverse situations only distinguish a champion from others. KL Rahul did an immediate course correction after the debacle at Melbourne and came back strongly in the very next Test at Sydney as he slammed a century there. KL Rahul has been impressive in all format of international ever since that century at Sydney. He is one of those rare batsmen, who have scored centuries in all three formats of international Cricket. Having missed IPL 2017 due to injury, IPL 2018 has been a turning point of Rahul's career and it has certainly catapulted him into an even upper league. KL Rahul has been one of the most impactful players this IPL. The way KL Rahul almost single-handedly pulled match for his side against team Mumbai on 16th May was actually a mark of a true champion. In the opening game of Punjab against Delhi at IPL 2018 itself, Rahul made a solid statement by smashing a fifty in just 14 balls and he has been among runs consistently and he alone is taking whole batting burden for his side. It clearly endorses one thing that KL Rahul is set to play a major role for Team India in all formats in days to come. He, per se in the league of Virat Kohli in a sense that he can excel all formats of the games and this is where he scores well over the likes of Ajinkya Rahane (who is more suited for Test) and Rohit Sharma (who is more suited in T-20 and ODI). KL is somewhat is on Virender Sehwag's template. He is free flowing and is a natural hitter of the ball. At the top of the order, his brisk batting can make a huge difference even the Test. Remember how one short but quick-fire innings from Sehwag set the tone for the historic chase against England in 2008 at Chennai Test. Over the years, Sehwag did one job for India with perfection and that was putting the pressure back on bowling attack by his attacking play. Now Rahul fits in that role. KL Rahul has been a treat to watch and I am sure that going forward he would play an all-important role for India in all formats of the game. It is not an hyperbole but in my opinion, after watching Rahul's show so far in IPL 2018, overall KL Rahul is only second to Virat Kohli in Indian batting line-up, if we consider potential impact which Rahul can make in the all three formats put together. He can be a key player when India will tour England this summer for the forthcoming series down under in Australia and World Cup next year as well. Let's wait and watch. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: KL Rahul – A rejuvenated and repackaged batting power house

<p>Defending Champions Mumbai lost the&nbsp;last chance to book a play-off berth in the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League as they have been kicked out of the tournament by Delhi team at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium on Sunday.</p>

<p>Earlier, the host Delhi had won the toss and opted to bat in order to take the advantage of a dry pitch and put up a 175-run target for&nbsp;Mumbai.</p>

<p>While chasing, team Mumbai lost all the wickets in 19.3 overs and failed to reach the target eventually losing the match by 11 runs.</p>

<p>The opener Evin Lewis scored 48 runs to give a required start to the team but another opener Suryakumar Yadav did not contribute much as he scored just 12 runs before losing his wicket to star spinner Sandeep Lamichhane.</p>

<p>Ishan Kishan and Keiron Pollard too were ineffective in today's game as they scored just five and seven runs respectively.</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma, who suffered an injury in the first inning while fielding, scored just 13 runs off 11 balls. Also, allrounder Krunal Pandya scored just four runs.</p>

<p>Hardik Pandya and Ben Cutting tried to push the run rate but that was not enough to take the team through to the play-offs.</p>

<p>Hardik Pandya scored 27 runs before losing the wicket to Amit Mishra on the other hand bowler Harshal Patel outbowled Ben Cutting at the score of 37 runs. Ben's short inning included two 4's and three 6's. In the death overs, Mayank Markande (3) and Jasprit Bumrah (0) lost their wickets.</p>

<p>For Delhi, spinners were very economical as Sandeep Lamichhane and Amit Mishra took three wickets each to restrict the defending champions. Also, pacer Harshal Patel made a very crucial contribution in his 2.3-over spell by taking three wickets by giving 28 runs.</p>

<p>For a magnificent spell, Amit Mishra was awarded 'Player of the Match.'</p>

<p>Earlier, after losing first three wickets, Delhi's Rishab Pant rose to the occasion to help its team set a decent score of 174 runs on board.</p>

<p>The wicket-keeper batsman slammed 64 runs in 44 balls which included four boundaries and four huge sixes.</p>

<p>It is Pant's fifth half-century in this year's tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Supporting him at the other end was Vijay Shankar, who smashed 43 runs in 30 balls. His unbeaten inning included three fours and two sixes.</p>

<p>Skipper Shreyas Iyer and opener Prithvi Shaw once again failed to contribute any big score and departed after making six and 12 runs, respectively.</p>


While chasing, team Mumbai lost all the wickets in 19.3 overs and failed to reach the target and lost the match by 11 runs

Defending Champions Mumbai lost the last chance to book a play-off berth in the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League as they have been kicked out of the tournament by Delhi team at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium on Sunday. Earlier, the host Delhi had won the toss and opted to bat in order to take the advantage of a dry pitch and put up a 175-run target for Mumbai. While chasing, team Mumbai lost all the wickets in 19.3 overs and failed to reach the target eventually losing the match by 11 runs. The opener Evin Lewis scored 48 runs to give a required start to the team but another opener Suryakumar Yadav did not contribute much as he scored just 12 runs before losing his wicket to star spinner Sandeep Lamichhane. Ishan Kishan and Keiron Pollard too were ineffective in today's game as they scored just five and seven runs respectively. Rohit Sharma, who suffered an injury in the first inning while fielding, scored just 13 runs off 11 balls. Also, allrounder Krunal Pandya scored just four runs. Hardik Pandya and Ben Cutting tried to push the run rate but that was not enough to take the team through to the play-offs. Hardik Pandya scored 27 runs before losing the wicket to Amit Mishra on the other hand bowler Harshal Patel outbowled Ben Cutting at the score of 37 runs. Ben's short inning included two 4's and three 6's. In the death overs, Mayank Markande (3) and Jasprit Bumrah (0) lost their wickets. For Delhi, spinners were very economical as Sandeep Lamichhane and Amit Mishra took three wickets each to restrict the defending champions. Also, pacer Harshal Patel made a very crucial contribution in his 2.3-over spell by taking three wickets by giving 28 runs. For a magnificent spell, Amit Mishra was awarded 'Player of the Match.' Earlier, after losing first three wickets, Delhi's Rishab Pant rose to the occasion to help its team set a decent score of 174 runs on board. The wicket-keeper batsman slammed 64 runs in 44 balls which included four boundaries and four huge sixes. It is Pant's fifth half-century in this year's tournament. Supporting him at the other end was Vijay Shankar, who smashed 43 runs in 30 balls. His unbeaten inning included three fours and two sixes. Skipper Shreyas Iyer and opener Prithvi Shaw once again failed to contribute any big score and departed after making six and 12 runs, respectively.

IPL 2018: Delhi ends Mumbai's play-off race, beat defenders by 11 runs

<p>David Miller and Karun Nair scored 24 runs and 54 runs respectively to help the team in setting up a target of 154 runs for Chennai at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Sunday.</p>

<p>The clash is important for Punjab as they need to mark a +53- run victory in order to qualify for the play-offs as their net run-rate reads a poor as compared to Rajasthan.</p>

<p>Earlier, Chennai had won the toss and opted to bowl in the last league match of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League at their ground.</p>

<p>Apart from Miller and Nair, batsman Manoj Tiwary also contributed with the bat and scored 35 crucial runs for the team.</p>

<p>A lot was expected from the openers, KL Rahul and Cris Gayle but both batsmen failed to perform in the do-or-die encounter.&nbsp</p>

<p>Rahul scored just seven runs and Gayle did even open his account as pacer Lungi Ngidi sent both of them back to pavilion.</p>

<p>Aaron Finch too lost his wicket early after scoring just four runs.</p>


Punjab need to win with a margin of +53 runs to qualify for the play-offs

David Miller and Karun Nair scored 24 runs and 54 runs respectively to help the team in setting up a target of 154 runs for Chennai at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Sunday. The clash is important for Punjab as they need to mark a +53- run victory in order to qualify for the play-offs as their net run-rate reads a poor as compared to Rajasthan. Earlier, Chennai had won the toss and opted to bowl in the last league match of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League at their ground. Apart from Miller and Nair, batsman Manoj Tiwary also contributed with the bat and scored 35 crucial runs for the team. A lot was expected from the openers, KL Rahul and Cris Gayle but both batsmen failed to perform in the do-or-die encounter. Rahul scored just seven runs and Gayle did even open his account as pacer Lungi Ngidi sent both of them back to pavilion. Aaron Finch too lost his wicket early after scoring just four runs.

IPL 2018: Punjab set 154-run target against Chennai

<p>Rajasthan defeated Bangalore by 30 runs in their Indian Premier League (IPL) on Saturday.</p>

<p>With this win, the Virat Kohli-led side is out of the play-offs race and the tournament. Chasing a target of 165 runs, Bangalore folded up for 134 runs in 19.2 overs.</p>

<p>Leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal led the host's charge, sponging up almost the entire top and middle-order to return impressive figures of 4/16 in his four overs.</p>

<p>Pacers Ben Laughlin and Jaydev Unadkat picked up two wickets each.</p>

<p>Earlier, Tripathi registered his first half-century of the season to help Rajasthan set 164 runs on the scoreboard during their clash against Bangalore at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Saturday.</p>

<p>Tripathi made 80 runs off 58 balls which included five boundaries and three huge sixes.&nbsp; The opener remained unbeaten and played till the last ball to set a more decent target for the opponents.</p>

<p>Skipper Ajinkya Rahane also contributed 33 runs before being LBW by Umesh Yadav. Sanju Samson, who is considered one of the most consistent performers of the franchise, was sent back to the pavilion without opening his account.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Heinrich Klaasen played a perfect cameo and made 32 runs off 21 balls.</p>

<p>Earlier, Rajasthan won the toss and opted to bat against the Virat Kohli-led side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the toss, Ajinkya Rahane mentioned that the pitch is dry and also the host Rajhasthan are very familiar with the wickets. On the exit of Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler, Ajinkya said that the team is missing them.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli also highlighted the fact that Jos And Ben are not in the Playing XI. Kolhi also mentioned that the team has done decently well in the previous three matches and also it is important to find the right balance in today's game.</p>

<p>There was no change for Bangalore team, on the other hand, Ben Laughlin, Heinrich Klaasen and Shreyas Gopal were included in the playing XI of Rajasthan.</p>


Shreyas Gopal's impressive figure of 4/16 helped beat Kohli's side.

Rajasthan defeated Bangalore by 30 runs in their Indian Premier League (IPL) on Saturday. With this win, the Virat Kohli-led side is out of the play-offs race and the tournament. Chasing a target of 165 runs, Bangalore folded up for 134 runs in 19.2 overs. Leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal led the host's charge, sponging up almost the entire top and middle-order to return impressive figures of 4/16 in his four overs. Pacers Ben Laughlin and Jaydev Unadkat picked up two wickets each. Earlier, Tripathi registered his first half-century of the season to help Rajasthan set 164 runs on the scoreboard during their clash against Bangalore at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Saturday. Tripathi made 80 runs off 58 balls which included five boundaries and three huge sixes. The opener remained unbeaten and played till the last ball to set a more decent target for the opponents. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane also contributed 33 runs before being LBW by Umesh Yadav. Sanju Samson, who is considered one of the most consistent performers of the franchise, was sent back to the pavilion without opening his account. Meanwhile, Heinrich Klaasen played a perfect cameo and made 32 runs off 21 balls. Earlier, Rajasthan won the toss and opted to bat against the Virat Kohli-led side. After winning the toss, Ajinkya Rahane mentioned that the pitch is dry and also the host Rajhasthan are very familiar with the wickets. On the exit of Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler, Ajinkya said that the team is missing them. Virat Kohli also highlighted the fact that Jos And Ben are not in the Playing XI. Kolhi also mentioned that the team has done decently well in the previous three matches and also it is important to find the right balance in today's game. There was no change for Bangalore team, on the other hand, Ben Laughlin, Heinrich Klaasen and Shreyas Gopal were included in the playing XI of Rajasthan.

Rajasthan's 30-run win knocks Virat Kohli's Bangalore out of IPL 2018

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