Venkatesh Iyer has lit up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)'s campaign in the second leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in UAE. A prodigious left-hander, Iyer's nonchalant and flamboyant style of batting has helped&nbsp;him become one of the most talked-about youngsters in the league at present.&nbsp;

Iyer has had an eventful journey in his cricketing career so far as he continues his pursuit of glory on the 24 yards. A bright student, Iyer had ditched his CA final exams for an MBA in finance, only a year after turning a professional cricketer.

He made his T20 debut for Madhya Pradesh in March 2015 but only a year later in 2016, he had to choose between cricket or CA finals. He turned down the opportunity to become a chartered accountant and decided to go for an MBA to&nbsp;ensure he could continue his dream of making it big in cricket.

Post his MBA, Iyer landed a lucrative job offer from one of the Big 4 firms of India in 2018, however, destiny had other plans for the swashbuckling batsman.

In an interview with ESPN Cricinfo, Iyer revealed he was offered a job from Deloitte but he turned it down for cricket. In the same interview, the opening batsman claimed it didn't take a&nbsp;lot of effort to manage cricket and his MBA as the game remains his first love while asserting that he would have cracked IIT or IIM had it not been for cricket.

"I decided to give up my CA and pursue an MBA in finance. Honestly, I didn't have to put in a lot of effort to manage both. I'm not bragging, I've always been a bright student," Iyer said.

"Had there been no cricket, I would have landed in an IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) or IIM (Indian Institute of Management)," he added.

Born in Indore in 1994, Iyer's sole motive behind trading his CA finals with an MBA in finance was based on his desire to pursue a career in cricket. However, it has not been an easy journey for him on the pitch as he had to wait for nearly six years to get his first break in the IPL since making his first-class debut in 2015.

Iyer hasn't looked back since making his Ranji Trophy debut in 2018 and a decent run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy earlier this year saw KKR pick him at his base price of Rs 20 lakh at the player auction. He made a cracking debut&nbsp;for the Eoin Morgan-led side in their first game of the UAE leg against Royal Challengers Bangalore on Monday before continuing his purple patch against Mumbai Indians on Thursday.

He slammed an unbeaten 41 off just 27 balls to power KKR to a 9-wicket win over RCB on the resumption of their IPL 2021 campaign and followed it up with a brilliant 30-ball 53 against Mumbai Indians on Thursday as KKR bagged their second win in a row, riding on the 26-year-old's heroics with the willow.

The MBA graduate has provided much-needed firepower to KKR's batting line-up at the top and has played an instrumental role in their back-to-back wins which saw Morgan &amp; Co. enter the top four after a poor start to their campaign in the first leg of the season in India.

A dasher with the willow and a handy part-time bowler, Iyer will be hoping to continue his stellar run in the upcoming matches and make the most of the opportunities coming his way in his debut season of the cash-rich league.

Venkatesh Iyer has lit up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)'s campaign in the second leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in UAE. A prodigious left-hander, Iyer's nonchalant and flamboyant style of batting has helped him become one of the most talked-about youngsters in the league at present.

Venkatesh Iyer has lit up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)'s campaign in the second leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in UAE. A prodigious left-hander, Iyer's nonchalant and flamboyant style of batting has helped him become one of the most talked-about youngsters in the league at present. Iyer has had an eventful journey in his cricketing career so far as he continues his pursuit of glory on the 24 yards. A bright student, Iyer had ditched his CA final exams for an MBA in finance, only a year after turning a professional cricketer. He made his T20 debut for Madhya Pradesh in March 2015 but only a year later in 2016, he had to choose between cricket or CA finals. He turned down the opportunity to become a chartered accountant and decided to go for an MBA to ensure he could continue his dream of making it big in cricket. Post his MBA, Iyer landed a lucrative job offer from one of the Big 4 firms of India in 2018, however, destiny had other plans for the swashbuckling batsman. In an interview with ESPN Cricinfo, Iyer revealed he was offered a job from Deloitte but he turned it down for cricket. In the same interview, the opening batsman claimed it didn't take a lot of effort to manage cricket and his MBA as the game remains his first love while asserting that he would have cracked IIT or IIM had it not been for cricket. "I decided to give up my CA and pursue an MBA in finance. Honestly, I didn't have to put in a lot of effort to manage both. I'm not bragging, I've always been a bright student," Iyer said. "Had there been no cricket, I would have landed in an IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) or IIM (Indian Institute of Management)," he added. Born in Indore in 1994, Iyer's sole motive behind trading his CA finals with an MBA in finance was based on his desire to pursue a career in cricket. However, it has not been an easy journey for him on the pitch as he had to wait for nearly six years to get his first break in the IPL since making his first-class debut in 2015. Iyer hasn't looked back since making his Ranji Trophy debut in 2018 and a decent run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy earlier this year saw KKR pick him at his base price of Rs 20 lakh at the player auction. He made a cracking debut for the Eoin Morgan-led side in their first game of the UAE leg against Royal Challengers Bangalore on Monday before continuing his purple patch against Mumbai Indians on Thursday. He slammed an unbeaten 41 off just 27 balls to power KKR to a 9-wicket win over RCB on the resumption of their IPL 2021 campaign and followed it up with a brilliant 30-ball 53 against Mumbai Indians on Thursday as KKR bagged their second win in a row, riding on the 26-year-old's heroics with the willow. The MBA graduate has provided much-needed firepower to KKR's batting line-up at the top and has played an instrumental role in their back-to-back wins which saw Morgan & Co. enter the top four after a poor start to their campaign in the first leg of the season in India. A dasher with the willow and a handy part-time bowler, Iyer will be hoping to continue his stellar run in the upcoming matches and make the most of the opportunities coming his way in his debut season of the cash-rich league.

MBA graduate lighting up IPL 2021: All you need to know about KKR star Venkatesh Iyer

Defending champions Mumbai Indians might have lost their previous game against Chennai Super Kings, but skipper Rohit Sharma feels it`s important for the team to turn up and do the job when they take on Kolkata Knight Riders in their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. "It`s important that we turn up and do the job!" Rohit said in a video posted on MI`s twitter handle. "I honestly don`t believe in past records, T20 is a game on that particular day. What happens it`s a game of that you have to be best on that day. They are a good opposition (Kolkata Knight Riders) and they play cricket very well as a team, and they will obviously be coming off from some confidence after their last win so it`s not going to be cakewalk for us.

"I know that we had a very handy record against them, but it`s important that we turn up really well on that particular day, and do the job. When you are chasing a score like 157 you need to build those small partnerships, and make sure you keep yourself in the game as long as possible." Commenting on the impressive show by pacer Adam Milne in his first game, the captain said: "Adam Milne, especially is coming from a very good tournament in UK. He is a good bowler, bowls really fast and it`s all about, you know, getting that confidence and he got that confidence in the first game. So I just hope that he builds on it. We just have to come back and come back really strong and tick those small boxes, and I think if you look at the potential in this squad. We have got all bases covered."

Rohit missed the opening game as the team management felt it was important to give him some more recovery time after he injured himself during the Test series in England. MI couldn`t capitalise on the good start they got against CSK and ultimately lost the game by 20 runs as MS Dhoni`s boys made a remarkable comeback after a poor start.

Defending champions Mumbai Indians might have lost their previous game against Chennai Super Kings, but skipper Rohit Sharma feels it`s important for the team to turn up and do the job when they take on Kolkata Knight Riders in their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

Defending champions Mumbai Indians might have lost their previous game against Chennai Super Kings, but skipper Rohit Sharma feels it`s important for the team to turn up and do the job when they take on Kolkata Knight Riders in their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. "It`s important that we turn up and do the job!" Rohit said in a video posted on MI`s twitter handle. "I honestly don`t believe in past records, T20 is a game on that particular day. What happens it`s a game of that you have to be best on that day. They are a good opposition (Kolkata Knight Riders) and they play cricket very well as a team, and they will obviously be coming off from some confidence after their last win so it`s not going to be cakewalk for us. "I know that we had a very handy record against them, but it`s important that we turn up really well on that particular day, and do the job. When you are chasing a score like 157 you need to build those small partnerships, and make sure you keep yourself in the game as long as possible." Commenting on the impressive show by pacer Adam Milne in his first game, the captain said: "Adam Milne, especially is coming from a very good tournament in UK. He is a good bowler, bowls really fast and it`s all about, you know, getting that confidence and he got that confidence in the first game. So I just hope that he builds on it. We just have to come back and come back really strong and tick those small boxes, and I think if you look at the potential in this squad. We have got all bases covered." Rohit missed the opening game as the team management felt it was important to give him some more recovery time after he injured himself during the Test series in England. MI couldn`t capitalise on the good start they got against CSK and ultimately lost the game by 20 runs as MS Dhoni`s boys made a remarkable comeback after a poor start.

IPL 2021: It's important that we turn up and do the job, says MI skipper Rohit Sharma ahead of KKR tie

Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant said that team is "happy" to start the second phase of the IPL 2021 with a win over Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday (September 22) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;Delhi Capitals now sit at the top of the points table while Sunrisers Hyderabad remain at the bottom.&nbsp;

Pant also hailed the bowlers as "assets" as after a stunning performance produced by the bowling unit, DC claimed an eight-wicket victory over SRH as bowlers restricted the opposition at 134 in 20 overs.

The brilliant fast bowling performance by South African duo Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada was top notch. Nortje returned with figures of 2/12 in his 4 overs and he was supported by Rabada (3/37). India's pacer Axar Patel (2/21) also chipped in.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rajasthan-royals-captain-sanju-samson-fined-for-slow-over-rate-414972">IPL 2021: Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson fined for slow over-rate</a>

Chasing the modest target of 135, Delhi Capitals wrapped the game in 17.5 overs with Shikhar Dhawan (42), Shreyas Iyer (47 not out) and Rishabh Pant (35 not out) scoring runs.&nbsp;

During the post-match presentation, Pant said, "We discussed that we had a good first phase, and we are happy to start the second phase this way. We said the same thing about focusing on the process and giving it 100% every day."

"It's a good bowling performance because we thought 150-160 would have been a good total, so 130-something was a good score to restrict them to. We have one of the quickest bowlers in the world so I think they're great assets to have," he added.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-uae-leg-all-teams-and-their-revised-squad-list-414218">IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list</a>

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Here's to more entertaining encounters 💙🧡 
 
Until we meet again, <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunRisers</a> 🤝<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/1j2EbY4VUg">pic.twitter.com/1j2EbY4VUg</a>
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A perfect win calls for a perfect celebration in the DC camp 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvSRH</a><a href="https://t.co/1aXW9iNm36">pic.twitter.com/1aXW9iNm36</a>
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Here's how the Points Table look after Match 33 of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> 👇 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/rlyZREMzH9">pic.twitter.com/rlyZREMzH9</a>
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Orange Cap Dhawan said, "I'm enjoying wearing the cap, I'm enjoying the way I'm timing the ball. Not very true, this surface, it stopped a bit, and we had to plan the game according to the wicket."

"So it was good to go out there and secure a win. I consciously made an effort to increase the tempo and strike-rate, because I wanted to be an impacful player for my side," he added.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant said that team is "happy" to start the second phase of the IPL 2021 with a win over Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday (September 22) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant said that team is "happy" to start the second phase of the IPL 2021 with a win over Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday (September 22) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Delhi Capitals now sit at the top of the points table while Sunrisers Hyderabad remain at the bottom. Pant also hailed the bowlers as "assets" as after a stunning performance produced by the bowling unit, DC claimed an eight-wicket victory over SRH as bowlers restricted the opposition at 134 in 20 overs. The brilliant fast bowling performance by South African duo Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada was top notch. Nortje returned with figures of 2/12 in his 4 overs and he was supported by Rabada (3/37). India's pacer Axar Patel (2/21) also chipped in. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson fined for slow over-rate Chasing the modest target of 135, Delhi Capitals wrapped the game in 17.5 overs with Shikhar Dhawan (42), Shreyas Iyer (47 not out) and Rishabh Pant (35 not out) scoring runs. During the post-match presentation, Pant said, "We discussed that we had a good first phase, and we are happy to start the second phase this way. We said the same thing about focusing on the process and giving it 100% every day." "It's a good bowling performance because we thought 150-160 would have been a good total, so 130-something was a good score to restrict them to. We have one of the quickest bowlers in the world so I think they're great assets to have," he added. IN PICS | IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list Here's to more entertaining encounters 💙🧡 Until we meet again, @SunRisers 🤝#DCvSRH #IPL2021 #YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/1j2EbY4VUg — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) September 22, 2021 × A perfect win calls for a perfect celebration in the DC camp 💙#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 #DCvSRHpic.twitter.com/1aXW9iNm36 — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) September 22, 2021 × Here's how the Points Table look after Match 33 of the #VIVOIPL 👇 #DCvSRH pic.twitter.com/rlyZREMzH9 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 22, 2021 × Orange Cap Dhawan said, "I'm enjoying wearing the cap, I'm enjoying the way I'm timing the ball. Not very true, this surface, it stopped a bit, and we had to plan the game according to the wicket." "So it was good to go out there and secure a win. I consciously made an effort to increase the tempo and strike-rate, because I wanted to be an impacful player for my side," he added.

IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant 'happy' to start second phase with a win over Sunrisers Hyderabad

Australia all-rounder Marcus Stoinis will undergo a scan later on Thursday after pulling up with a hamstring issue during an Indian Premier League (IPL) match, the injury coming just weeks before the start of the Twenty20 World Cup. 
 
Stoinis has been named in Australia`s 15-man squad for the October-November World Cup after missing tours of the West Indies and Bangladesh and is expected to play a key role. 
 
The 32-year-old pulled up after bowling his seventh ball of the game for Delhi Capitals against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday, his team`s first match following the resumption of the tournament in Dubai after a break enforced by rising COVID-19 cases in India. 
 
Stoinis did not play any further part in the match, which Delhi won by eight wickets to the top of the table. Delhi had initially said Stoinis suffered a calf injury but cricket.com.au reported it was a left hamstring strain. A Delhi spokesperson told Reuters on Thursday that Stoinis would go for a scan to determine the extent of the injury later in the day. 
 
The IPL match on Wednesday had gone ahead despite Hyderabad seamer T. Natarajan testing positive for COVID-19 hours before the contest.

Australia all-rounder Marcus Stoinis will undergo a scan later on Thursday after pulling up with a hamstring issue during an Indian Premier League (IPL) match, the injury coming just weeks before the start of the Twenty20 World Cup.

Australia all-rounder Marcus Stoinis will undergo a scan later on Thursday after pulling up with a hamstring issue during an Indian Premier League (IPL) match, the injury coming just weeks before the start of the Twenty20 World Cup. Stoinis has been named in Australia`s 15-man squad for the October-November World Cup after missing tours of the West Indies and Bangladesh and is expected to play a key role. The 32-year-old pulled up after bowling his seventh ball of the game for Delhi Capitals against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Wednesday, his team`s first match following the resumption of the tournament in Dubai after a break enforced by rising COVID-19 cases in India. Stoinis did not play any further part in the match, which Delhi won by eight wickets to the top of the table. Delhi had initially said Stoinis suffered a calf injury but cricket.com.au reported it was a left hamstring strain. A Delhi spokesperson told Reuters on Thursday that Stoinis would go for a scan to determine the extent of the injury later in the day. The IPL match on Wednesday had gone ahead despite Hyderabad seamer T. Natarajan testing positive for COVID-19 hours before the contest.

IPL 2021: Australia's Marcus Stoinis suffers hamstring injury during DC's 8-wicket win over SRH

Rahul Tripathi and Venkatesh Iyer played knocks of 74 and 53 respectively as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeated Mumbai Indians by seven wickets in an Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter here at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Thursday.

With this win, KKR has risen to the fourth spot in the points table while Mumbai Indians has slipped to the fifth position. Before entering this match, KKR had a dismal record against MI, registering just six wins in a total of 28 games, but Iyer and Tripathi helped the franchise turn around their fortunes.

Chasing 156, KKR got off to a flying start as Shubman Gill and Venkatesh Iyer put on 40 runs inside three overs. However, the opening stand was cut short as Jasprit Bumrah bowled Gill (13) in the third over of the innings. At the end of the powerplay, KKR's score read 63/1 with Iyer going all guns blazing. Iyer and Tripathi continued with their carnage and both the batters registered their respective half-centuries.

Both batters put on 88 runs for the second wicket, however, this stand was finally broken by Bumrah as he sent Iyer (53) back to the pavilion with KKR 28 runs away from the target. In the end, Tripathi (74*) and Nitish Rana (5*) took KKR over the line by seven wickets with 29 balls to spare.

Earlier, Quinton de Kock's 55-run knock helped Mumbai Indians post 155/6 against KKR in the allotted twenty overs. Sent into bat, Mumbai Indians got off to a good start as opening batters Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock put on 56 runs inside the first six overs.

Rohit and de Kock eventually put on 78 runs for the opening wicket, and this stand was finally broken by Sunil Narine in the 10th over as he dismissed Rohit (33). Suryakumar Yadav who came out to bat at number three failed to leave a mark as he scored just five runs.

He was sent back to the pavilion by Prasidh Krishna. Two overs later, de Kock (55) was also dismissed and Mumbai Indians was reduced to 106/3 in the 15th over. Ishan Kishan (14) might have hit a long six off the bowling of Andre Russell, but he perished in the next over off the bowling of Lockie Ferguson. In the end, Kieron Pollard scored 21 runs from 15 balls to take Mumbai's score past the 150-run mark.

Brief Scores: Mumbai Indians 155/6 (Quinton de Kock 55, Rohit Sharma 33; Lockie Ferguson 2-27) vs KKR 159/3 (Rahul Tripathi 74*, Venkatesh Iyer 53, Jasprit Bumrah 3-43). (ANI)

Rahul Tripathi and Venkatesh Iyer played knocks of 74 and 53 respectively as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeated Mumbai Indians by seven wickets in an Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter here at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Thursday.

Rahul Tripathi and Venkatesh Iyer played knocks of 74 and 53 respectively as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeated Mumbai Indians by seven wickets in an Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter here at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Thursday. With this win, KKR has risen to the fourth spot in the points table while Mumbai Indians has slipped to the fifth position. Before entering this match, KKR had a dismal record against MI, registering just six wins in a total of 28 games, but Iyer and Tripathi helped the franchise turn around their fortunes. Chasing 156, KKR got off to a flying start as Shubman Gill and Venkatesh Iyer put on 40 runs inside three overs. However, the opening stand was cut short as Jasprit Bumrah bowled Gill (13) in the third over of the innings. At the end of the powerplay, KKR's score read 63/1 with Iyer going all guns blazing. Iyer and Tripathi continued with their carnage and both the batters registered their respective half-centuries. Both batters put on 88 runs for the second wicket, however, this stand was finally broken by Bumrah as he sent Iyer (53) back to the pavilion with KKR 28 runs away from the target. In the end, Tripathi (74*) and Nitish Rana (5*) took KKR over the line by seven wickets with 29 balls to spare. Earlier, Quinton de Kock's 55-run knock helped Mumbai Indians post 155/6 against KKR in the allotted twenty overs. Sent into bat, Mumbai Indians got off to a good start as opening batters Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock put on 56 runs inside the first six overs. Rohit and de Kock eventually put on 78 runs for the opening wicket, and this stand was finally broken by Sunil Narine in the 10th over as he dismissed Rohit (33). Suryakumar Yadav who came out to bat at number three failed to leave a mark as he scored just five runs. He was sent back to the pavilion by Prasidh Krishna. Two overs later, de Kock (55) was also dismissed and Mumbai Indians was reduced to 106/3 in the 15th over. Ishan Kishan (14) might have hit a long six off the bowling of Andre Russell, but he perished in the next over off the bowling of Lockie Ferguson. In the end, Kieron Pollard scored 21 runs from 15 balls to take Mumbai's score past the 150-run mark. Brief Scores: Mumbai Indians 155/6 (Quinton de Kock 55, Rohit Sharma 33; Lockie Ferguson 2-27) vs KKR 159/3 (Rahul Tripathi 74*, Venkatesh Iyer 53, Jasprit Bumrah 3-43). (ANI)

IPL 2021: Venkatesh Iyer, Rahul Tripathi shine as KKR break MI jinx with 7-wicket win

Mumbai Indians` captain Rohit Sharma scripted a new Indian Premier League (IPL) record on Thursday as he became the first batter in the history of the lucrative league to score more than 1,000 runs against a particular opposition. 
 
The Mumbai captain achieved the feat during the match Kolkata Knight Riders in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. He now tops the list with over 1000 runs, with David Warner being the only player close to him. The Australian southpaw has 943 runs against Punjab Kings and 915 versus the Kolkata outfit. 
 
Rohit missed Mumbai`s first game of the UAE leg against Chennai Super Kings on Saturday but he was back to lead the 5-time champions on Thursday. Rohit started with a boundary in the first delivery of the match and carried on playing some eye-catching strokes even as KKR captain Eoin Morgan operated with spin in the first 3 overs of the powerplay.

Mumbai Indians` captain Rohit Sharma scripted a new Indian Premier League (IPL) record on Thursday as he became the first batter in the history of the lucrative league to score more than 1,000 runs against a particular opposition.

Mumbai Indians` captain Rohit Sharma scripted a new Indian Premier League (IPL) record on Thursday as he became the first batter in the history of the lucrative league to score more than 1,000 runs against a particular opposition. The Mumbai captain achieved the feat during the match Kolkata Knight Riders in Abu Dhabi on Thursday. He now tops the list with over 1000 runs, with David Warner being the only player close to him. The Australian southpaw has 943 runs against Punjab Kings and 915 versus the Kolkata outfit. Rohit missed Mumbai`s first game of the UAE leg against Chennai Super Kings on Saturday but he was back to lead the 5-time champions on Thursday. Rohit started with a boundary in the first delivery of the match and carried on playing some eye-catching strokes even as KKR captain Eoin Morgan operated with spin in the first 3 overs of the powerplay.

Rohit Sharma scripts history, becomes first player to score 1,000 runs against single opposition in IPL

Former India opener Virender Sehwag aimed a hilarious dig at the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after their poor batting show against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Wednesday. Delhi Capitals regained their top spot on the points table after a convincing 8-wicket win at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

It was a disappointing batting show from Sunrisers Hyderabad, who were restricted on a paltry 134/9 in 20 overs as DC pacers ran riot in the game. Opting to bat first, SRH got off to the worst possible start losing opener David Warner on a duck before the likes of Kane Williamson (18) and Manish Pandey (17) were also sent back cheaply.

Anrich Nortje breathed fire with the ball, finishing with stunning figures of 12/2 in his four overs while Kagiso Rabada picked up a three-wicket haul. Reacting to SRH's abysmal show with the bat, Sehwag, who is known for his witty remarks, came up with a dig at Williamson &amp; Co.

In a video shared on his Facebook page, Sehwag said the SRH batsmen should 'eat food' if hungry and not consume balls in the middle.&nbsp;"Is ball something to eat that too in T20? Don't eat the ball. If you are hungry, eat food." Sehwag said in the video.

He went on to add that even the ball would have been pleading to be hit by the SRH batsmen, who showcased no intent during their innings in Dubai.&nbsp;

"As Harshad Mehta had said be it market or cricket the biggest risk is not taking any risk. But Hyderabad was playing so sluggishly that even the ball would have said this to them in agony - 'Maro mujhe...maaro mujhe [please hit me]," Sehwag added.

After restricting SRH on a low-key total of 134 runs, Delhi Capitals chased down the target comfortably with 13 balls to spare. Shreyas Iyer slammed an unbeaten 47 off 41 balls on his return from injury while captain Rishabh Pant scored an unbeaten 35 to help DC claim the top spot on the table with their seventh win of the season.

Delhi Capitals will be looking to continue their winning run and become the first team to seal a spot in the playoffs when they take on Rajasthan Royals in their next game on September 25 (Saturday).

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Former India opener Virender Sehwag aimed a hilarious dig at the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after their poor batting show against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Wednesday.

Former India opener Virender Sehwag aimed a hilarious dig at the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after their poor batting show against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Wednesday. Delhi Capitals regained their top spot on the points table after a convincing 8-wicket win at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. It was a disappointing batting show from Sunrisers Hyderabad, who were restricted on a paltry 134/9 in 20 overs as DC pacers ran riot in the game. Opting to bat first, SRH got off to the worst possible start losing opener David Warner on a duck before the likes of Kane Williamson (18) and Manish Pandey (17) were also sent back cheaply. Anrich Nortje breathed fire with the ball, finishing with stunning figures of 12/2 in his four overs while Kagiso Rabada picked up a three-wicket haul. Reacting to SRH's abysmal show with the bat, Sehwag, who is known for his witty remarks, came up with a dig at Williamson & Co. In a video shared on his Facebook page, Sehwag said the SRH batsmen should 'eat food' if hungry and not consume balls in the middle. "Is ball something to eat that too in T20? Don't eat the ball. If you are hungry, eat food." Sehwag said in the video. He went on to add that even the ball would have been pleading to be hit by the SRH batsmen, who showcased no intent during their innings in Dubai. "As Harshad Mehta had said be it market or cricket the biggest risk is not taking any risk. But Hyderabad was playing so sluggishly that even the ball would have said this to them in agony - 'Maro mujhe...maaro mujhe [please hit me]," Sehwag added. After restricting SRH on a low-key total of 134 runs, Delhi Capitals chased down the target comfortably with 13 balls to spare. Shreyas Iyer slammed an unbeaten 47 off 41 balls on his return from injury while captain Rishabh Pant scored an unbeaten 35 to help DC claim the top spot on the table with their seventh win of the season. Delhi Capitals will be looking to continue their winning run and become the first team to seal a spot in the playoffs when they take on Rajasthan Royals in their next game on September 25 (Saturday).

'Even ball would have said kill me': Virender Sehwag takes a dig at SRH for poor show against DC

Delhi Capitals (DC) surprised one and all when they retained Rishabh Pant as the captain for the remainder of IPL 2021, ahead of the UAE leg's commencement. While the franchise might have done it to maintain continuity and also as they were on top of the points table under Pant's captaincy in the first leg, many thought Shreyas Iyer would reclaim the captaincy spot after being fully fit and available for the final leg, which is underway in UAE at present.

However, Iyer has no qualms of the fact of not leading DC franchise and finally reacted on playing under Pant after DC's 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 33 of IPL 14, on Wednesday (September 22).

“When I got the captaincy, I was in a different frame of mind. My decision-making and temperament level was really good. It really helped in the last two years. But obviously, this is part of the decision-making from the franchise. I respect the decision they have made to continue with him (Pant) as captain,” said the right-handed batsman in the press conference after the match.

Iyer added, "As for Rishabh Pant, he is leading really well from the start of the season. That’s why the decision-makers took the call to let him continue till the end of the season. I completely respect it. There is no drastic change as such and it isn’t like I am focusing even more than before on my batting. As captain, I like to soak in the pressure. With pressure comes challenges, and my mindset is such that I perform well in pressure situations."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-didnt-allow-r-ashwin-virender-sehwag-on-dc-spinners-knack-of-experimenting-with-the-ball-after-srh-tie-415160">'MS Dhoni didn't allow R Ashwin...' - Virender Sehwag on DC spinner's knack of experimenting with the ball after SRH tie</a>

Talking about DC's first game in the UAE leg, Pant-starrer restricted SRH for a moderate 134-9, riding on Anrich Nortje's 2 for 12&nbsp;and Kagiso Rabada's 3-fer. In reply, Shikhar Dhawan's 41 and Iyer-Pant's unbeaten 67-run third-wicket stand took DC past the finish line, in 17.5 overs with the loss of only two wickets. Iyer remained unbeaten on 47 whereas Pant slammed an unbeaten 35, off 21 balls.

With this win, DC top the points table with 7 wins from 9 encounters.

Delhi Capitals (DC) surprised one and all when they retained Rishabh Pant as the captain for the remainder of IPL 2021, ahead of the UAE leg's commencement. While the franchise might have done it to maintain continuity and also as they were on top of the points table under Pant's captaincy in the first leg, many thought Shreyas Iyer would reclaim the captaincy spot after being fully fit and available for the final leg, which is underway in UAE at present.

Delhi Capitals (DC) surprised one and all when they retained Rishabh Pant as the captain for the remainder of IPL 2021, ahead of the UAE leg's commencement. While the franchise might have done it to maintain continuity and also as they were on top of the points table under Pant's captaincy in the first leg, many thought Shreyas Iyer would reclaim the captaincy spot after being fully fit and available for the final leg, which is underway in UAE at present. However, Iyer has no qualms of the fact of not leading DC franchise and finally reacted on playing under Pant after DC's 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 33 of IPL 14, on Wednesday (September 22). “When I got the captaincy, I was in a different frame of mind. My decision-making and temperament level was really good. It really helped in the last two years. But obviously, this is part of the decision-making from the franchise. I respect the decision they have made to continue with him (Pant) as captain,” said the right-handed batsman in the press conference after the match. Iyer added, "As for Rishabh Pant, he is leading really well from the start of the season. That’s why the decision-makers took the call to let him continue till the end of the season. I completely respect it. There is no drastic change as such and it isn’t like I am focusing even more than before on my batting. As captain, I like to soak in the pressure. With pressure comes challenges, and my mindset is such that I perform well in pressure situations." ALSO READ | 'MS Dhoni didn't allow R Ashwin...' - Virender Sehwag on DC spinner's knack of experimenting with the ball after SRH tie Talking about DC's first game in the UAE leg, Pant-starrer restricted SRH for a moderate 134-9, riding on Anrich Nortje's 2 for 12 and Kagiso Rabada's 3-fer. In reply, Shikhar Dhawan's 41 and Iyer-Pant's unbeaten 67-run third-wicket stand took DC past the finish line, in 17.5 overs with the loss of only two wickets. Iyer remained unbeaten on 47 whereas Pant slammed an unbeaten 35, off 21 balls. With this win, DC top the points table with 7 wins from 9 encounters.

IPL 2021: Shreyas Iyer reacts after playing under Rishabh Pant during DC's 8-wicket win over SRH

New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Covid-19 has come back to haunt the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) once again. Sunrisers Hyderabad bowler Thangarasu Natarajan became the first player of the UAE leg of the league to test positive just ahead of the team's match against Delhi Capitals on Wednesday. 
 
The development came as a shocker after strict measures were taken by the organisers to prevent any Covid-19 cases. The cricketers were in a bio-bubble, while the hosts decided to allow some crowds; leaving the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) worried. 
 
"Don`t know how it happened. Players are under strict bio-bubble. We have told them to be more cautious now. We just hope no more cases come and disturb the proceeding (IPL). Yes, we are worried but there is no need to press the panic button right no`. Let`s hope for the best. We are getting all the support in the UAE (related to Covid). They, too, are keeping a close watch on everything," a senior BCCI official told IANS. 
 
Asked if allowing crowds inside the stadium was the right decision, the official said, "SRH played their first match yesterday. And Natarajan tested positive before that? so the entire team was under a strict bubble." 
 
The 30-year-old pacer along with six close contacts, including all-rounder Vijay Shankar, have been isolated in Dubai. Apart from Shankar, the other individuals are team manager Vijay Kumar, physiotherapist Shyam Sundar J, Dr. Anjana Vannan, logistics manager Tushar Khedkar and net bowler Periyasamy Ganesan. 
 
The BCCI went ahead with the match at the Dubai International Stadium as the other players have returned negative tests. 
 
Earlier in May, the BCCI had suspended IPL 2021 due to a spike in the number of coronavirus cases inside IPL`s bio-bubble. After a lot of discussions, the board decided to shift the remaining matches to UAE due to the rise in the number of Covid-19 cases in India. 
 
 
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New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Covid-19 has come back to haunt the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) once again. Sunrisers Hyderabad bowler Thangarasu Natarajan became the first player of the UAE leg of the league to test positive just ahead of the team's match against Delhi Capitals on Wednesday.

New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Covid-19 has come back to haunt the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) once again. Sunrisers Hyderabad bowler Thangarasu Natarajan became the first player of the UAE leg of the league to test positive just ahead of the team's match against Delhi Capitals on Wednesday. The development came as a shocker after strict measures were taken by the organisers to prevent any Covid-19 cases. The cricketers were in a bio-bubble, while the hosts decided to allow some crowds; leaving the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) worried. "Don`t know how it happened. Players are under strict bio-bubble. We have told them to be more cautious now. We just hope no more cases come and disturb the proceeding (IPL). Yes, we are worried but there is no need to press the panic button right no`. Let`s hope for the best. We are getting all the support in the UAE (related to Covid). They, too, are keeping a close watch on everything," a senior BCCI official told IANS. Asked if allowing crowds inside the stadium was the right decision, the official said, "SRH played their first match yesterday. And Natarajan tested positive before that? so the entire team was under a strict bubble." The 30-year-old pacer along with six close contacts, including all-rounder Vijay Shankar, have been isolated in Dubai. Apart from Shankar, the other individuals are team manager Vijay Kumar, physiotherapist Shyam Sundar J, Dr. Anjana Vannan, logistics manager Tushar Khedkar and net bowler Periyasamy Ganesan. The BCCI went ahead with the match at the Dubai International Stadium as the other players have returned negative tests. Earlier in May, the BCCI had suspended IPL 2021 due to a spike in the number of coronavirus cases inside IPL`s bio-bubble. After a lot of discussions, the board decided to shift the remaining matches to UAE due to the rise in the number of Covid-19 cases in India.

IPL 2021: Worried, but no need to press the panic button, says BCCI official after T Natarajan tests positive for COVID-19

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had a perfect start to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, with a comprehensive 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22).

While the likes of Pant, Anrich Nortje, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer performed well, R Ashwin returned wicketless in 2.5 overs, conceding only 22 runs. Given that Ashwin has returned to India's T20I setup after a long break, for the upcoming T20 World Cup, all eyes were on him to make a mark. However, the veteran off-spinner didn't give away a lot of runs but returned without any breakthrough, which didn't impress former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag.

Sehwag said on Cricbuzz Live, "Ravichandran Ashwin has a mindset that if he bowls off-spin, anyone will hit him for a four or a six. Because of this fear, he resorts to experimentation. When MS Dhoni used to be behind the wickets, he never allowed Ashwin to experiment. Sometimes you need to make a bowler realize that no doubt a batsman may hit you for a six but it also gives you a chance to get him out."

"The way he was bowling, it gives him the least chance to dismiss a batsman. If he resorts to off-spin, then LBW, bowled comes into the equation. Yes, he was economical but as a senior bowler, he should give breakthroughs in the middle overs," Sehwag further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rishabh-pant-happy-to-start-second-phase-with-a-win-over-sunrisers-hyderabad-415032">IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant 'happy' to start second phase with a win over Sunrisers Hyderabad</a>

Thus, Sehwag feels Ashwin is not fully confident in bowling off-spin due to the fear of being hit. It will be interesting to see how the 34-year-old goes ahead with the ball in hand in the upcoming encounters for the table-toppers DC franchise.&nbsp;

DC will next lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (September 25).

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had a perfect start to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, with a comprehensive 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22).

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had a perfect start to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, with a comprehensive 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22). While the likes of Pant, Anrich Nortje, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer performed well, R Ashwin returned wicketless in 2.5 overs, conceding only 22 runs. Given that Ashwin has returned to India's T20I setup after a long break, for the upcoming T20 World Cup, all eyes were on him to make a mark. However, the veteran off-spinner didn't give away a lot of runs but returned without any breakthrough, which didn't impress former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag. Sehwag said on Cricbuzz Live, "Ravichandran Ashwin has a mindset that if he bowls off-spin, anyone will hit him for a four or a six. Because of this fear, he resorts to experimentation. When MS Dhoni used to be behind the wickets, he never allowed Ashwin to experiment. Sometimes you need to make a bowler realize that no doubt a batsman may hit you for a six but it also gives you a chance to get him out." "The way he was bowling, it gives him the least chance to dismiss a batsman. If he resorts to off-spin, then LBW, bowled comes into the equation. Yes, he was economical but as a senior bowler, he should give breakthroughs in the middle overs," Sehwag further explained. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant 'happy' to start second phase with a win over Sunrisers Hyderabad Thus, Sehwag feels Ashwin is not fully confident in bowling off-spin due to the fear of being hit. It will be interesting to see how the 34-year-old goes ahead with the ball in hand in the upcoming encounters for the table-toppers DC franchise. DC will next lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (September 25).

'MS Dhoni didn't allow R Ashwin...' - Virender Sehwag on DC spinner's knack of experimenting with the ball after SRH tie

Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore suffered a loss by a clinical Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday (September 20) as an inspired bowling performance with Varun Chakravarthy and Andre Russell taking three wickets each demolished the opposition batting.&nbsp;

KKR opener Shubman Gill top-scored with a knock of 48 runs as the team chased down the small target of 93 runs with nine wickets in hand and 60 balls to spare.&nbsp;

During the match, RCB's batsman AB de Villiers set an unwanted record as Andre Russell bowled him on&nbsp;a golden duck with a&nbsp;toe-crushing yorker. It was the sixth time that de Villiers had got out for a golden duck in the IPL.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rcb-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-key-moments-from-eoin-morgan-cos-clinical-win-over-virat-kohlis-bengaluru-414541">RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Key moments from Eoin Morgan &amp; Co.'s clinical win over Virat Kohli's Bengaluru</a>

It was also the 10th time that de Villiers got a duck in the IPL and he is fifth among the current lot of players in IPL to have got out for zero, 10 or more times.&nbsp;

Reacting to the stunning yorker, Russell said during a virtual chat session posted by the official social media handles of KKR that he "planned it".&nbsp;

Russell said, "That yorker? I planned it. Because, I was bowling hard-length before into the wicket, and when AB came out to bat, I know he's a smart player, and so he was definitely looking for a hard length ball.”&nbsp;

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"I just trusted myself to get the yorker in, and it worked. So, I'm happy," he added. When Russell got to know that it was de Villiers' first golden duck since 2016, he said, "Well, I was not checking that stat, but I'm happy it was tonight."

"AB de Villiers is a top player. You know getting him out on the first ball is definitely my night," Russell said, adding that he met ABD after the match hugged him.&nbsp;

"After the game, I went by him and I gave him a hug and I said big man I got you tonight. It's all part of the game," Russell concluded.&nbsp;

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A quick reminder to all RCB fans that Andre Russell owns their Franchise 👍 
 
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Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore suffered a loss by a clinical Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday (September 20) as an inspired bowling performance with Varun Chakravarthy and Andre Russell taking three wickets each demolished the opposition batting.

Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore suffered a loss by a clinical Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday (September 20) as an inspired bowling performance with Varun Chakravarthy and Andre Russell taking three wickets each demolished the opposition batting. KKR opener Shubman Gill top-scored with a knock of 48 runs as the team chased down the small target of 93 runs with nine wickets in hand and 60 balls to spare. During the match, RCB's batsman AB de Villiers set an unwanted record as Andre Russell bowled him on a golden duck with a toe-crushing yorker. It was the sixth time that de Villiers had got out for a golden duck in the IPL. IN PICS | RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Key moments from Eoin Morgan & Co.'s clinical win over Virat Kohli's Bengaluru It was also the 10th time that de Villiers got a duck in the IPL and he is fifth among the current lot of players in IPL to have got out for zero, 10 or more times. Reacting to the stunning yorker, Russell said during a virtual chat session posted by the official social media handles of KKR that he "planned it". Russell said, "That yorker? I planned it. Because, I was bowling hard-length before into the wicket, and when AB came out to bat, I know he's a smart player, and so he was definitely looking for a hard length ball.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kolkata Knight Riders (@kkriders) × "I just trusted myself to get the yorker in, and it worked. So, I'm happy," he added. When Russell got to know that it was de Villiers' first golden duck since 2016, he said, "Well, I was not checking that stat, but I'm happy it was tonight." "AB de Villiers is a top player. You know getting him out on the first ball is definitely my night," Russell said, adding that he met ABD after the match hugged him. "After the game, I went by him and I gave him a hug and I said big man I got you tonight. It's all part of the game," Russell concluded. A quick reminder to all RCB fans that Andre Russell owns their Franchise 👍 pic.twitter.com/skHETTMU87 — Honest MI Fan (@stfuarshu) September 21, 2021 ×

'I went by him and gave him a hug': Andre Russell on taking AB de Villiers' wicket with stunning yorker in IPL 2021

Defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will face two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Thursday evening (September 23). This will be match number 34 in the IPL 2021 edition where both sides will look to pick up two vital points as the tournament is progressing towards its business end.

Talking about the MI franchise, they started the second and final leg with a 20-run loss at the hands of MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on September 19. They will hope to see the return of regular captain Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya in the playing XI as MI often look vulnerable when their core players miss out. On the other hand, KKR started the UAE leg with a bang, beating Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by 8 wickets and 10 overs to spare.

After a disappointing first leg, KKR need to get on a winning streak to enter the top four. For that, they will have to beat a daunting MI line-up, who have often dominated the Kolkata franchise.

Ahead of match 34, here's everything you need to know about the pitch report, weather and probable playing XI:&nbsp;

Weather and pitch report:&nbsp;While the average first-inning score at Abu Dhabi remained 155 for other teams, MI found a formula to go beyond it and score 187 on an average during IPL 2020. They have enjoyed playing here, with some help to their pacers initially while their batters have also hit the ground running at the venue. If they rediscover their form, KKR will have plenty to ponder upon. On the weather front, there are no chances of rain interrupting the face-off on Thursday evening.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mi-vs-kkr-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-mumbai-indians-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-415127">IPL 2021, MI vs KKR, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders?</a>

Predicted Playing XIs for MI vs KKR

KKR Probable XI: Venkatesh Iyer, Shubman Gill, Rahul Tripathi, Nitish Rana, Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Lockie Ferguson, Varun Chakravarthy, Prasidh Krishna

MI Probable XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Saurabh Tiwary, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Adam Milne, Rahul Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult 
&nbsp;

Defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will face two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Thursday evening (September 23).

Defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will face two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Thursday evening (September 23). This will be match number 34 in the IPL 2021 edition where both sides will look to pick up two vital points as the tournament is progressing towards its business end. Talking about the MI franchise, they started the second and final leg with a 20-run loss at the hands of MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on September 19. They will hope to see the return of regular captain Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya in the playing XI as MI often look vulnerable when their core players miss out. On the other hand, KKR started the UAE leg with a bang, beating Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by 8 wickets and 10 overs to spare. After a disappointing first leg, KKR need to get on a winning streak to enter the top four. For that, they will have to beat a daunting MI line-up, who have often dominated the Kolkata franchise. Ahead of match 34, here's everything you need to know about the pitch report, weather and probable playing XI: Weather and pitch report: While the average first-inning score at Abu Dhabi remained 155 for other teams, MI found a formula to go beyond it and score 187 on an average during IPL 2020. They have enjoyed playing here, with some help to their pacers initially while their batters have also hit the ground running at the venue. If they rediscover their form, KKR will have plenty to ponder upon. On the weather front, there are no chances of rain interrupting the face-off on Thursday evening. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, MI vs KKR, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders? Predicted Playing XIs for MI vs KKR KKR Probable XI: Venkatesh Iyer, Shubman Gill, Rahul Tripathi, Nitish Rana, Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Lockie Ferguson, Varun Chakravarthy, Prasidh Krishna MI Probable XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Saurabh Tiwary, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Adam Milne, Rahul Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult

IPL 2021, MI vs KKR: Pitch, weather report and probable playing XIs for Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders match

Match 34 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) take on the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). After a defeat in the first game of the second and final leg, the five-time champions MI will be eager to get back to winning ways and will be upbeat going into the contest as they face their favourite opposition in KKR.

For the unversed, Eoin Morgan-led KKR have won only a solitary&nbsp;match game versus MI in the last 6 years. On the other hand, MI franchise have won 11 in the same time frame. However, things won't be that easy for MI as KKR looked at their very best in their previous encounter, versus Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) where they won by 8 wickets with 10 overs to spare.

In the points table, MI are in the top four with 4 wins and equal number of defeats. However, KKR are desperate to enter the top-four, and currently occupy the sixth position, with 3 wins from 8 games.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:&nbsp;

Where is the IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders taking place?

The IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

What time does the IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin?

The IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders begins at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-its-important-that-we-turn-up-and-do-the-job-says-mi-skipper-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-kkr-tie-415110">IPL 2021: It's important that we turn up and do the job, says MI skipper Rohit Sharma ahead of KKR tie</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders?

The IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between PBKS vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

Match 34 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) take on the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). After a defeat in the first game of the second and final leg, the five-time champions MI will be eager to get back to winning ways and will be upbeat going into the contest as they face their favourite opposition in KKR.

Match 34 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) take on the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). After a defeat in the first game of the second and final leg, the five-time champions MI will be eager to get back to winning ways and will be upbeat going into the contest as they face their favourite opposition in KKR. For the unversed, Eoin Morgan-led KKR have won only a solitary match game versus MI in the last 6 years. On the other hand, MI franchise have won 11 in the same time frame. However, things won't be that easy for MI as KKR looked at their very best in their previous encounter, versus Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) where they won by 8 wickets with 10 overs to spare. In the points table, MI are in the top four with 4 wins and equal number of defeats. However, KKR are desperate to enter the top-four, and currently occupy the sixth position, with 3 wins from 8 games. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders taking place? The IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. What time does the IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin? The IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders begins at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: It's important that we turn up and do the job, says MI skipper Rohit Sharma ahead of KKR tie Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders? The IPL 2021 match between Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between PBKS vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

IPL 2021, MI vs KKR, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders?

Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 edition will see the hot favourites and second-positioned Delhi Capitals (DC) take on the bottom-lying Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22).

The match will give the Rishabh Pant-led DC franchise another chance to reclaim the top spot after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the top-ranked side following their win over Mumbai Indians (MI) on September 19 (Sunday). For the SRH camp, they need to start afresh after a horrible run in the first leg of the season which saw them win only one game from seven encounters.&nbsp;

DC have been bolstered by the return of their regular captain Shreyas Iyer. Though Iyer won't be captaining the side with Pant named skipper for the remainder of the season after a dream start, the presence of Iyer, R Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Axar Patel, Marcus Stoinis, Kagiso Rabada, etc. make DC the firm favourites before the SRH tie. Will the Orange Army revamp and surprise other teams in the second and final leg?

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:&nbsp;

Where is the IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad taking place?

The IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

What time does the IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad begin?

The IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-dc-skipper-rishabh-pant-shares-his-biggest-learning-from-india-legend-and-csk-captain-ms-dhoni-414729">IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant shares his biggest learning from India legend and CSK captain MS Dhoni</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad?

The IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between PBKS vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 edition will see the hot favourites and second-positioned Delhi Capitals (DC) take on the bottom-lying Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22).

Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 edition will see the hot favourites and second-positioned Delhi Capitals (DC) take on the bottom-lying Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22). The match will give the Rishabh Pant-led DC franchise another chance to reclaim the top spot after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the top-ranked side following their win over Mumbai Indians (MI) on September 19 (Sunday). For the SRH camp, they need to start afresh after a horrible run in the first leg of the season which saw them win only one game from seven encounters. DC have been bolstered by the return of their regular captain Shreyas Iyer. Though Iyer won't be captaining the side with Pant named skipper for the remainder of the season after a dream start, the presence of Iyer, R Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Axar Patel, Marcus Stoinis, Kagiso Rabada, etc. make DC the firm favourites before the SRH tie. Will the Orange Army revamp and surprise other teams in the second and final leg? Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad taking place? The IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. What time does the IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad begin? The IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant shares his biggest learning from India legend and CSK captain MS Dhoni Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad? The IPL 2021 match between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between PBKS vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

IPL 2021, DC vs SRH, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad?

Delhi Capitals rode on a brilliant fast bowling performance from their South African duo Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada to pulverise wooden spooners Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets as they took a giant leap towards Indian Premier League play-offs on Wednesday.

Capitals produced top-notch performance in their first match of the second phase of this year's IPL to eke out the easy win in 17.5 overs in their pursuit of a modest 135-run target.

It was only possible after fast furious Nortje bowled at 150 clicks to finish with 2 for 12 and was ably supported Rabada (3/37) and Axar Patel (2/21) in a brilliant bowling effort.

Last edition's runners-up are now well and truly in contention for clinching a play-off berth with 14 points from nine games while SRH with two points are all but out of the competition.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-had-suggested-to-virat-kohli-to-give-up-all-white-ball-captaincy-reports-414934">Ravi Shastri had suggested to Virat Kohli to give up all white-ball captaincy: Reports</a>

DC started their chase on an aggressive note with Shikhar Dhawan and young Prithvi Shaw (11 off 8) adding 20 runs in 17 balls before the latter was caught by Kane Williamson off the bowlng of Khaleel Ahmed as the batsman went for an extravagant shot over mid-wicket.

Orange Cap Dhawan was unperturbed as he continued his attacking batting and slog swept Rashid Khan over deep midwicket for a maximum in the Afghan spinner's first over.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Dominant <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> seal a comfortable win! 👌 👌 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a>-led unit register their 7th win of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> &amp; move to the top of the Points Table. 👏 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvSRH</a> 
 
Scorecard 👉 <a href="https://t.co/15qsacH4y4">https://t.co/15qsacH4y4</a> <a href="https://t.co/5CAkMtmlzu">pic.twitter.com/5CAkMtmlzu</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1440731689722908682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While SRH batsmen struggled, Dhawan made batting look easy on the wicket as he then pulled a Jason Holder delivery on to the square leg fence.

Swing bowler Sandeep Sharma was then taken to task by Dhawan as he hit the medium pacer for back-to-back boundaries in the 10th over take DC to 69 for one.

But Dhawan paid the price for being too aggressive when he was holed out by Abdul Samad off the bowling of Rashid as the left-hander went for a slog sweep over deep square leg in search of a six.

Dhawan's runs came off 37 balls and was laced with six boundaries and one hit over the fence.

Shreyas Iyer (47 not out off 41), who played the second fiddle when Dhawan was around, then took the onus on himself and upped the ante, hitting Sandeep Sharma for two consecutive fours in the 14th over.

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Here's how the Points Table look after Match 33 of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> 👇 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/rlyZREMzH9">pic.twitter.com/rlyZREMzH9</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1440733694403121158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Iyer continued to bat freely and in the company of skipper Rishabh Pant (35 off 21) took DC home with 13 balls to spare.

While Khaleel Ahmed extracted some pace and bounce from the track, none other SRH bowlers managed to trouble the DC batsmen as Iyer and Pant batted with consummate ease.

Iyer hit two fours and as many sixes during his knock, while Pant decorated his innings with three boundaries and two lofty hits over the fence.

Earlier, SRH put up a dismal batting performance to manage a meagre 134 for nine.

Nortje and Rabada were terrific with the ball as they extracted extra bounce and pace from the relatively low and slow wicket to dismantle SRH top-order.

The script didn't turn out as SRH wanted after opting to bat as they lost David Warner (0) in the third ball of the innings without any runs on the board.

Wriddhiman Saha (18) then added 29 runs with skipper Kane Williamson (18) before the former mistimed a pull to Shikhar Dawan at midwicket of the bowling off Kagiso Rabada.

Williamson and Manish Pandey then tried to build the innings, stitching 31 runs for the third wicket but SRH soon suffered a jolt when their skipper gave a simple catch to Shimron Hetmyer at long-off off the bowling of Axar Patel.

Pandey (18) followed suit and Kedar Jadhav (3) too didn't help his cause either.

Jason Holder (10) too turned out to be a big flop for SRH.

Damage already done, Abdul Samad (28 off 21, 2x4s, 1x6) tried his best to shore up the run-rate in company of Rashid Khan (22 off 19 balls) but he too departed in search of quick runs, top-edging a miss-timed pull to DC skipper Rishabh Pant off Rabada's bowling.

Rashid's knock was laced with the help of two fours and one six before being run out. Bhuvneshwar Kumar remained not out on 5 from 3 balls.

Rabada was the pick of the bowlers for DC with figures of 3 for 37, while Nortje (2/12) and Patel (2/32) picked up two wickets apiece.

Delhi Capitals rode on a brilliant fast bowling performance from their South African duo Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada to pulverise wooden spooners Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets as they took a giant leap towards Indian Premier League play-offs on Wednesday.

Delhi Capitals rode on a brilliant fast bowling performance from their South African duo Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada to pulverise wooden spooners Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets as they took a giant leap towards Indian Premier League play-offs on Wednesday. Capitals produced top-notch performance in their first match of the second phase of this year's IPL to eke out the easy win in 17.5 overs in their pursuit of a modest 135-run target. It was only possible after fast furious Nortje bowled at 150 clicks to finish with 2 for 12 and was ably supported Rabada (3/37) and Axar Patel (2/21) in a brilliant bowling effort. Last edition's runners-up are now well and truly in contention for clinching a play-off berth with 14 points from nine games while SRH with two points are all but out of the competition. ALSO READ | Ravi Shastri had suggested to Virat Kohli to give up all white-ball captaincy: Reports DC started their chase on an aggressive note with Shikhar Dhawan and young Prithvi Shaw (11 off 8) adding 20 runs in 17 balls before the latter was caught by Kane Williamson off the bowlng of Khaleel Ahmed as the batsman went for an extravagant shot over mid-wicket. Orange Cap Dhawan was unperturbed as he continued his attacking batting and slog swept Rashid Khan over deep midwicket for a maximum in the Afghan spinner's first over. Dominant @DelhiCapitals seal a comfortable win! 👌 👌 The @RishabhPant17-led unit register their 7th win of the #VIVOIPL & move to the top of the Points Table. 👏 👏 #DCvSRH Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/15qsacH4y4 pic.twitter.com/5CAkMtmlzu — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 22, 2021 × While SRH batsmen struggled, Dhawan made batting look easy on the wicket as he then pulled a Jason Holder delivery on to the square leg fence. Swing bowler Sandeep Sharma was then taken to task by Dhawan as he hit the medium pacer for back-to-back boundaries in the 10th over take DC to 69 for one. But Dhawan paid the price for being too aggressive when he was holed out by Abdul Samad off the bowling of Rashid as the left-hander went for a slog sweep over deep square leg in search of a six. Dhawan's runs came off 37 balls and was laced with six boundaries and one hit over the fence. Shreyas Iyer (47 not out off 41), who played the second fiddle when Dhawan was around, then took the onus on himself and upped the ante, hitting Sandeep Sharma for two consecutive fours in the 14th over. Here's how the Points Table look after Match 33 of the #VIVOIPL 👇 #DCvSRH pic.twitter.com/rlyZREMzH9 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 22, 2021 × Iyer continued to bat freely and in the company of skipper Rishabh Pant (35 off 21) took DC home with 13 balls to spare. While Khaleel Ahmed extracted some pace and bounce from the track, none other SRH bowlers managed to trouble the DC batsmen as Iyer and Pant batted with consummate ease. Iyer hit two fours and as many sixes during his knock, while Pant decorated his innings with three boundaries and two lofty hits over the fence. Earlier, SRH put up a dismal batting performance to manage a meagre 134 for nine. Nortje and Rabada were terrific with the ball as they extracted extra bounce and pace from the relatively low and slow wicket to dismantle SRH top-order. The script didn't turn out as SRH wanted after opting to bat as they lost David Warner (0) in the third ball of the innings without any runs on the board. Wriddhiman Saha (18) then added 29 runs with skipper Kane Williamson (18) before the former mistimed a pull to Shikhar Dawan at midwicket of the bowling off Kagiso Rabada. Williamson and Manish Pandey then tried to build the innings, stitching 31 runs for the third wicket but SRH soon suffered a jolt when their skipper gave a simple catch to Shimron Hetmyer at long-off off the bowling of Axar Patel. Pandey (18) followed suit and Kedar Jadhav (3) too didn't help his cause either. Jason Holder (10) too turned out to be a big flop for SRH. Damage already done, Abdul Samad (28 off 21, 2x4s, 1x6) tried his best to shore up the run-rate in company of Rashid Khan (22 off 19 balls) but he too departed in search of quick runs, top-edging a miss-timed pull to DC skipper Rishabh Pant off Rabada's bowling. Rashid's knock was laced with the help of two fours and one six before being run out. Bhuvneshwar Kumar remained not out on 5 from 3 balls. Rabada was the pick of the bowlers for DC with figures of 3 for 37, while Nortje (2/12) and Patel (2/32) picked up two wickets apiece.

IPL 2021: Dominant Delhi Capitals demolish Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets

Punjab Kings coach Anil Kumble was left distraught following the two-run loss to Rajasthan Royals despite the fact that they had to score just eight runs in the final two overs to snatch a win in the crucial Indian Premier League match here on Tuesday. 
 
Young RR pacer Kartik Tyagi`s last-over heroics guided the side to a nail-biting victory. Punjab needed four runs in the last over but Tyagi conceded just one run and took two wickets to guide his side home. The game was in Punjab`s hands and there was no way Rajasthan could have stolen it. But they did the unthinkable. Not to forget the brilliant fielding by Chetan Sakariya at short third man in the 19th over when he saved three crucial runs at death for his team. 
 
Kumble knows that qualifying for the playoffs would be a really tough task as a sixth defeat in nine games now means his side, which is currently placed seventh with six points, has to win all its games to make the grade. 
 
"It`s sort of become a pattern for us especially when we get to Dubai, it seems. The approach was clear, we needed to finish it in 19 overs. That was the approach, to not let it go till the end. But unfortunately, when you leave it to the last couple of balls, it becomes a lottery. Credit to [Kartik] Tyagi for the way he bowled," Kumble said after the match. 
 
Kumble was unhappy that the batsmen were unable to figure out Tyagi`s line in the final over. 
 
"It was pretty clear he was going to bowl wide outside off, and somehow our batters didn`t take the right options. We need to discuss this and sort it out. We have five more games to go, we don`t want to get bogged down by this defeat but it`s certainly a bitter pill to swallow." 
 
Kumble categorically said that it was a case of batsmen failing rather than bowlers not delivering. Punjab Kings bowler Arshdeep Singh picked up his maiden T20 five-for, while pace stalwart Mohammed Shami grabbed three as Rajasthan Royals were restricted to below 200 runs on a batsmen-friendly wicket. 
 
"I think it was a very good wicket, and we really came back in the last four overs where we gave away just 20 runs and picked up six wickets or so. Arshdeep bowled brilliantly, as did Shami. [Harpreet] Brar bowled really well on a tough pitch. On a ground where one side of the boundary is short, at one stage Royals looked good to score 200-210. So to really squeeze them in the last four, I thought the bowling effort was really good. 
 
"With the bat also, we showed it till the 17th over. We were cruising but we were pulled back in the 18th and 19th overs after [Aiden] Markram`s six. As batters, they know what their scoring shots are. All it needed was a bit of hitting. Even if someone got out first ball, the next batter had five balls to get the runs. When it goes to the last couple of balls, it becomes hard. The messaging was clear. We had to finish it in 19 overs, unfortunately that didn`t happen today." 
&nbsp;

Punjab Kings coach Anil Kumble was left distraught following the two-run loss to Rajasthan Royals despite the fact that they had to score just eight runs in the final two overs to snatch a win in the crucial Indian Premier League match here on Tuesday.

Punjab Kings coach Anil Kumble was left distraught following the two-run loss to Rajasthan Royals despite the fact that they had to score just eight runs in the final two overs to snatch a win in the crucial Indian Premier League match here on Tuesday. Young RR pacer Kartik Tyagi`s last-over heroics guided the side to a nail-biting victory. Punjab needed four runs in the last over but Tyagi conceded just one run and took two wickets to guide his side home. The game was in Punjab`s hands and there was no way Rajasthan could have stolen it. But they did the unthinkable. Not to forget the brilliant fielding by Chetan Sakariya at short third man in the 19th over when he saved three crucial runs at death for his team. Kumble knows that qualifying for the playoffs would be a really tough task as a sixth defeat in nine games now means his side, which is currently placed seventh with six points, has to win all its games to make the grade. "It`s sort of become a pattern for us especially when we get to Dubai, it seems. The approach was clear, we needed to finish it in 19 overs. That was the approach, to not let it go till the end. But unfortunately, when you leave it to the last couple of balls, it becomes a lottery. Credit to [Kartik] Tyagi for the way he bowled," Kumble said after the match. Kumble was unhappy that the batsmen were unable to figure out Tyagi`s line in the final over. "It was pretty clear he was going to bowl wide outside off, and somehow our batters didn`t take the right options. We need to discuss this and sort it out. We have five more games to go, we don`t want to get bogged down by this defeat but it`s certainly a bitter pill to swallow." Kumble categorically said that it was a case of batsmen failing rather than bowlers not delivering. Punjab Kings bowler Arshdeep Singh picked up his maiden T20 five-for, while pace stalwart Mohammed Shami grabbed three as Rajasthan Royals were restricted to below 200 runs on a batsmen-friendly wicket. "I think it was a very good wicket, and we really came back in the last four overs where we gave away just 20 runs and picked up six wickets or so. Arshdeep bowled brilliantly, as did Shami. [Harpreet] Brar bowled really well on a tough pitch. On a ground where one side of the boundary is short, at one stage Royals looked good to score 200-210. So to really squeeze them in the last four, I thought the bowling effort was really good. "With the bat also, we showed it till the 17th over. We were cruising but we were pulled back in the 18th and 19th overs after [Aiden] Markram`s six. As batters, they know what their scoring shots are. All it needed was a bit of hitting. Even if someone got out first ball, the next batter had five balls to get the runs. When it goes to the last couple of balls, it becomes hard. The messaging was clear. We had to finish it in 19 overs, unfortunately that didn`t happen today."

IPL 2021: Angry Anil Kumble blames batsmen for PBKS' two-run loss against RR

Sanju Samson, the skipper of the Rajasthan Royals has been fined by the Indian Premier League for his side's slow over-rate during the match against Punjab Kings at the Dubai International Stadium on September 21. &nbsp;

In an official statement, IPL informed, "Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has been fined after his team maintained a slow over rate during their VIVO Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Punjab Kings at the Dubai International Stadium, Dubai on September 21."&nbsp;

Although it was his team's first offence of the season under the IPL's Code of Conduct related to the over-rate offences, Samson was fined Rs 1.2&nbsp;million.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/threat-came-from-india-pakistans-information-minister-blames-india-after-new-zealand-abandoned-cricket-tour-414906">'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour</a>

During the match, the Royals pulled off an incredible two-run victory over Punjab Kings, thanks to the fast bowler Karthik Tyagi, who dismissed&nbsp;Nicholas Pooran and Deepak Hooda and gave away only one run in the final over to keep the opposition down to 183-4 while chasing 186.&nbsp;

Rajasthan, who come into the second leg of IPL 2021 in the United Arab Emirates without some of their key England players including Ben Stokes (mental health break), Jofra Archer (injured) and Jos Buttler (personal reasons), posted 185.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-uae-leg-all-teams-and-their-revised-squad-list-414218">IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list</a>

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WHAT. A. WIN! 👏 👏 
 
Simply stunning how <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a> have pulled off a two-run victory from the jaws of defeat. 👌 👌 
 
Scorecard 👉 <a href="https://t.co/odSnFtwBAF">https://t.co/odSnFtwBAF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKSvRR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKSvRR</a> <a href="https://t.co/16m71yzAOW">pic.twitter.com/16m71yzAOW</a>
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After the match, Samson praised bowlers of the team as he said, "It's funny that we kept believing (that we could win). I kept the overs of Mustafizur and Tyagi for the end, believing. Cricket is a funny game right.?"

"We just kept fighting and believing. I always believe in my bowlers, want to keep fighting and that's why I kept those two overs till the end. To be very honest, to get that score on this wicket, we felt good because we had the bowling. If we took the catches, we could have won the game earlier," he added.&nbsp;

Sanju Samson, the skipper of the Rajasthan Royals has been fined by the Indian Premier League for his side's slow over-rate during the match against Punjab Kings at the Dubai International Stadium on September 21.

Sanju Samson, the skipper of the Rajasthan Royals has been fined by the Indian Premier League for his side's slow over-rate during the match against Punjab Kings at the Dubai International Stadium on September 21. In an official statement, IPL informed, "Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has been fined after his team maintained a slow over rate during their VIVO Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Punjab Kings at the Dubai International Stadium, Dubai on September 21." Although it was his team's first offence of the season under the IPL's Code of Conduct related to the over-rate offences, Samson was fined Rs 1.2 million. ALSO READ | 'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour During the match, the Royals pulled off an incredible two-run victory over Punjab Kings, thanks to the fast bowler Karthik Tyagi, who dismissed Nicholas Pooran and Deepak Hooda and gave away only one run in the final over to keep the opposition down to 183-4 while chasing 186. Rajasthan, who come into the second leg of IPL 2021 in the United Arab Emirates without some of their key England players including Ben Stokes (mental health break), Jofra Archer (injured) and Jos Buttler (personal reasons), posted 185. IN PICS | IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list WHAT. A. WIN! 👏 👏 Simply stunning how @rajasthanroyals have pulled off a two-run victory from the jaws of defeat. 👌 👌 Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/odSnFtwBAF #VIVOIPL #PBKSvRR pic.twitter.com/16m71yzAOW — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 21, 2021 × After the match, Samson praised bowlers of the team as he said, "It's funny that we kept believing (that we could win). I kept the overs of Mustafizur and Tyagi for the end, believing. Cricket is a funny game right.?" "We just kept fighting and believing. I always believe in my bowlers, want to keep fighting and that's why I kept those two overs till the end. To be very honest, to get that score on this wicket, we felt good because we had the bowling. If we took the catches, we could have won the game earlier," he added.

IPL 2021: Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson fined for slow over-rate

COVID-19 scare returned during the second leg of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League 2021</a> (IPL 2021) as a player of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) franchise has been tested positive on Wednesday (September 22).&nbsp;

A BCCI statement read that&nbsp;SRH's left-arm pacer T Natarajan,&nbsp;who is coming back from a knee surgery, tested positive and&nbsp;has been isolated along with six close contacts which also include India all-rounder Vijay Shankar, &nbsp;

The statement further added that&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad vs&nbsp;Delhi Capitals match will go ahead at the Dubai International Stadium as scheduled as&nbsp;test reports of rest of the contingent including the close contacts are negative.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-dc-vs-srh-pitch-report-weather-and-probable-playing-xis-for-delhi-capitals-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-match-414847">IPL 2021, DC vs SRH : Pitch report, weather and probable playing XIs for Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match</a>

"Sunrisers Hyderabad player T Natarajan tested positive for COVID-19 at a scheduled RT-PCR test. The player has isolated himself from the rest of the squad. He is currently asymptomatic," a BCCI release stated.

"The rest of the contingent including the close contacts underwent RT-PCR tests at 5AM local time this morning and the test reports are negative.

"As a result, tonight's game between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals will go ahead at the Dubai International Stadium, Dubai," it further added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/clueless-virat-kohli-can-be-removed-or-asked-to-step-down-midway-former-cricketers-bold-prediction-on-rcb-captain-414870">'Clueless' Virat Kohli can be removed or asked to step down midway: Former cricketer's BOLD prediction on RCB captain</a>

The close contacts identified by the medical team also include Vijay Kumar (team manager), Shyam Sundar J (physiotherapist), Anjana Vannan (doctor), Tushar Khedkar (logistics manager) and Periyasamy Ganesan (net bowler).&nbsp;

After the cash-rich tournament was halted midway through the season in May due&nbsp;to Covid, it was then resumed a couple of days back on September 19 in UAE.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Decoding Virat Kohli's decision to quit RCB captain after IPL 2021

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&nbsp;

COVID-19 scare returned during the second leg of the Indian Premier League 2021 (IPL 2021) as a player of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) franchise has been tested positive on Wednesday (September 22).

COVID-19 scare returned during the second leg of the Indian Premier League 2021 (IPL 2021) as a player of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) franchise has been tested positive on Wednesday (September 22). A BCCI statement read that SRH's left-arm pacer T Natarajan, who is coming back from a knee surgery, tested positive and has been isolated along with six close contacts which also include India all-rounder Vijay Shankar, The statement further added that Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals match will go ahead at the Dubai International Stadium as scheduled as test reports of rest of the contingent including the close contacts are negative. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, DC vs SRH : Pitch report, weather and probable playing XIs for Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match "Sunrisers Hyderabad player T Natarajan tested positive for COVID-19 at a scheduled RT-PCR test. The player has isolated himself from the rest of the squad. He is currently asymptomatic," a BCCI release stated. "The rest of the contingent including the close contacts underwent RT-PCR tests at 5AM local time this morning and the test reports are negative. "As a result, tonight's game between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals will go ahead at the Dubai International Stadium, Dubai," it further added. ALSO READ | 'Clueless' Virat Kohli can be removed or asked to step down midway: Former cricketer's BOLD prediction on RCB captain The close contacts identified by the medical team also include Vijay Kumar (team manager), Shyam Sundar J (physiotherapist), Anjana Vannan (doctor), Tushar Khedkar (logistics manager) and Periyasamy Ganesan (net bowler). After the cash-rich tournament was halted midway through the season in May due to Covid, it was then resumed a couple of days back on September 19 in UAE. Watch: Decoding Virat Kohli's decision to quit RCB captain after IPL 2021 ×

COVID-19 hits IPL 2021 as SRH player tests positive before DC clash, match to go ahead as scheduled

In match 32 of IPL 2021, KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) failed to complete their 186-run chase versus Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) despite being at 120 for no loss at one stage and needing only 4 runs in the final six balls. As a result, PBKS lost the contest by two runs despite dominating the proceedings during the second-half of the riveting contest.

While Rahul (49) and Mayank Agarwal (67) had set the stage for the rest of the batting line-up, Punjab failed to cross the line despite the presence of Nicholas Pooran, Aiden Markram, Deepak Hooda in the final overs. While Punjab have only themselves to blame for their dramatic loss, Sunil Gavaskar and Kevin Pietersen criticised the team management's thinking on overlooking birthday boy Chris Gayle and keeping him out of the playing XI.&nbsp;

"There will be some questions asked. I don’t understand why you would leave Chris Gayle out on his birthday. If there was one game you were going to play him, it was this one. If he failed then you say ‘ok, you can have a bit of rest’. So I can’t understand the thinking at all," Pietersen said on Star Sports.

"I, like KP, am absolutely astonished that Chris Gayle is not playing today. The four overseas players that have been picked today, can play brilliantly and win the game for Punjab Kings today. But the fact remains that on your birthday, you are leaving one of the stellar players of T20 format. Not just in IPL – the CPL, the Big Bash. You name it, every single T20 league he has dominated. And you drop him for this game om on his birthday, it makes zero sense," explained Gavaskar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-angry-anil-kumble-blames-batsmen-for-pbks-two-run-loss-against-rr-414809">IPL 2021: Angry Anil Kumble blames batsmen for PBKS' two-run loss against RR</a>

For the unversed, Gayle was part of PBKS' XI in all the eight matches in the first leg, in India. However, the swashbuckling left-hander couldn't cross the 50-run mark in eight innings, ending the first-half with 178 runs at 25.42. Nonetheless, leaving him out -- that too on his birthday -- surely raises eyebrows.

In match 32 of IPL 2021, KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) failed to complete their 186-run chase versus Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) despite being at 120 for no loss at one stage and needing only 4 runs in the final six balls.

In match 32 of IPL 2021, KL Rahul-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) failed to complete their 186-run chase versus Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) despite being at 120 for no loss at one stage and needing only 4 runs in the final six balls. As a result, PBKS lost the contest by two runs despite dominating the proceedings during the second-half of the riveting contest. While Rahul (49) and Mayank Agarwal (67) had set the stage for the rest of the batting line-up, Punjab failed to cross the line despite the presence of Nicholas Pooran, Aiden Markram, Deepak Hooda in the final overs. While Punjab have only themselves to blame for their dramatic loss, Sunil Gavaskar and Kevin Pietersen criticised the team management's thinking on overlooking birthday boy Chris Gayle and keeping him out of the playing XI. "There will be some questions asked. I don’t understand why you would leave Chris Gayle out on his birthday. If there was one game you were going to play him, it was this one. If he failed then you say ‘ok, you can have a bit of rest’. So I can’t understand the thinking at all," Pietersen said on Star Sports. "I, like KP, am absolutely astonished that Chris Gayle is not playing today. The four overseas players that have been picked today, can play brilliantly and win the game for Punjab Kings today. But the fact remains that on your birthday, you are leaving one of the stellar players of T20 format. Not just in IPL – the CPL, the Big Bash. You name it, every single T20 league he has dominated. And you drop him for this game om on his birthday, it makes zero sense," explained Gavaskar. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Angry Anil Kumble blames batsmen for PBKS' two-run loss against RR For the unversed, Gayle was part of PBKS' XI in all the eight matches in the first leg, in India. However, the swashbuckling left-hander couldn't cross the 50-run mark in eight innings, ending the first-half with 178 runs at 25.42. Nonetheless, leaving him out -- that too on his birthday -- surely raises eyebrows.

'Absolutely astonished' - Sunil Gavaskar, Kevin Pietersen in shock as KL Rahul-led PBKS snub Chris Gayle on his birthday

Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by two runs in a thrilling high-scoring contest in match 32 of IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday (September 21). The RR franchise were all-out for 185 in 20 overs after attacking knocks from Yashasvi&nbsp;Jaiswal, Liam Livingstone and Mahipal Lomror.&nbsp;

In reply, PBKS were on course for an easy win with an impressive 120-run opening stand between KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal (67) before the one-time runners-up surrendered the momentum in the final over, failing to chase down 4 off 6 balls with 8 wickets in hand. Despite RR's emphatic win, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar wasn't impressed with Samson's shot-selection after the RR captain fell for a 5-ball 4, trying to play his shots despite not even settling in the middle.&nbsp;

For the unversed, this is Samson's third successive single digit score in T20s, after his twin flop shows for India in the Sri Lanka T20Is. Hence, the former Indian opener Gavaskar said on Star Sports, "What has let him down is the shot selection. Even at the international level, he doesn't open the batting there. He was the second or the third wicket down. And he looks to hit the first ball out of the ground. That is impossible. That is absolutely impossible even if you've been in the richest vein of form. You have got to maybe knock it around for maybe twos and threes and get the feet moving and then look to play."

"That is something he is going to watch out for. Because otherwise, it is going to be a waste of such God-given talent. I have always said that a lot of shot selection boils down to temperament. That is what separates the men from the boys. And therefore, for him to go on and be a regular player for India, his shot selection has to be that much better," added Gavaskar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/clueless-virat-kohli-can-be-removed-or-asked-to-step-down-midway-former-cricketers-bold-prediction-on-rcb-captain-414870">'Clueless' Virat Kohli can be removed or asked to step down midway: Former cricketer's BOLD prediction on RCB captain</a>

Samson will like to make the most of his opportunities in RR's upcoming clashes in the second and final leg of IPL 2021. At present, the one-time champions RR at the fifth position following their narrow win over Punjab.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by two runs in a thrilling high-scoring contest in match 32 of IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday (September 21).

Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by two runs in a thrilling high-scoring contest in match 32 of IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday (September 21). The RR franchise were all-out for 185 in 20 overs after attacking knocks from Yashasvi Jaiswal, Liam Livingstone and Mahipal Lomror. In reply, PBKS were on course for an easy win with an impressive 120-run opening stand between KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal (67) before the one-time runners-up surrendered the momentum in the final over, failing to chase down 4 off 6 balls with 8 wickets in hand. Despite RR's emphatic win, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar wasn't impressed with Samson's shot-selection after the RR captain fell for a 5-ball 4, trying to play his shots despite not even settling in the middle. For the unversed, this is Samson's third successive single digit score in T20s, after his twin flop shows for India in the Sri Lanka T20Is. Hence, the former Indian opener Gavaskar said on Star Sports, "What has let him down is the shot selection. Even at the international level, he doesn't open the batting there. He was the second or the third wicket down. And he looks to hit the first ball out of the ground. That is impossible. That is absolutely impossible even if you've been in the richest vein of form. You have got to maybe knock it around for maybe twos and threes and get the feet moving and then look to play." "That is something he is going to watch out for. Because otherwise, it is going to be a waste of such God-given talent. I have always said that a lot of shot selection boils down to temperament. That is what separates the men from the boys. And therefore, for him to go on and be a regular player for India, his shot selection has to be that much better," added Gavaskar. ALSO READ | 'Clueless' Virat Kohli can be removed or asked to step down midway: Former cricketer's BOLD prediction on RCB captain Samson will like to make the most of his opportunities in RR's upcoming clashes in the second and final leg of IPL 2021. At present, the one-time champions RR at the fifth position following their narrow win over Punjab.

Waste of God-given talent: Sunil Gavaskar unimpressed with Sanju Samson after RR skipper's flop show vs PBKS

Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) were involved in a humdinger of a clash in match 32 of IPL 2021 edition, on Tuesday (September 21). Being asked to bat first, Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) posted a healthy and competitive 185 all-out in 20 overs, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

In response, PBKS were off to a flier courtesy their openers KL Rahul (49) and Mayank Agarwal's fiery half-century. Courtesy their 120-run stand, PBKS were on course for an easy win and only needed 4 runs in the last over, with as many as 8 wickets in hand. However, the one-time runners-up couldn't hold onto their nerves and conceded a memorable 2-run win to the Royals.

During PBKS' run-chase when Rahul and Mayank were going bonkers, RR fielders didn't have the best of time as they dropped plenty of catches during their partnership. Rahul was given quite a few chances before he ran out of luck on 49. Just then, PBKS' official Twitter handle trolled RR hilariously but it was the latter who had the last laugh, off the field as well.&nbsp;

After the end result, RR replied on PBKS' tweet in style. Here's the two franchises' fun banter -

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Held our nerves too. <a href="https://t.co/vfBOfPwAOS">https://t.co/vfBOfPwAOS</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1440385786466037766?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-angry-anil-kumble-blames-batsmen-for-pbks-two-run-loss-against-rr-414809">IPL 2021: Angry Anil Kumble blames batsmen for PBKS' two-run loss against RR</a>

Karthik Tyagi, 2 for 29, and Mustafizur Rahman's economical spell, 0 for 30 in 4 overs, led to RR's narrow win when many had written them off in the contest. With this win, Royals have now taken the fifth spot and remain alive in the playoffs race.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) were involved in a humdinger of a clash in match 32 of IPL 2021 edition, on Tuesday (September 21). Being asked to bat first, Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) posted a healthy and competitive 185 all-out in 20 overs, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) were involved in a humdinger of a clash in match 32 of IPL 2021 edition, on Tuesday (September 21). Being asked to bat first, Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) posted a healthy and competitive 185 all-out in 20 overs, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. In response, PBKS were off to a flier courtesy their openers KL Rahul (49) and Mayank Agarwal's fiery half-century. Courtesy their 120-run stand, PBKS were on course for an easy win and only needed 4 runs in the last over, with as many as 8 wickets in hand. However, the one-time runners-up couldn't hold onto their nerves and conceded a memorable 2-run win to the Royals. During PBKS' run-chase when Rahul and Mayank were going bonkers, RR fielders didn't have the best of time as they dropped plenty of catches during their partnership. Rahul was given quite a few chances before he ran out of luck on 49. Just then, PBKS' official Twitter handle trolled RR hilariously but it was the latter who had the last laugh, off the field as well. After the end result, RR replied on PBKS' tweet in style. Here's the two franchises' fun banter - Held our nerves too. https://t.co/vfBOfPwAOS — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) September 21, 2021 × ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Angry Anil Kumble blames batsmen for PBKS' two-run loss against RR Karthik Tyagi, 2 for 29, and Mustafizur Rahman's economical spell, 0 for 30 in 4 overs, led to RR's narrow win when many had written them off in the contest. With this win, Royals have now taken the fifth spot and remain alive in the playoffs race.

IPL 2021: RR add to PBKS' woes as fun banter between both teams continue after Sanju Samson & Co.'s narrow win

Match 33 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) square off against each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;

Pant &amp; Co. will have another chance to regain the top spot in the points table and will give their all. On the other hand, Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are at the bottom and desperately need to revamp and start the UAE leg in style. It will be a tough task for SRH to get the better of DC, who comprise Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Marcus Stoinis, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, etc.&nbsp;

Ahead of match 33, here's everything you need to know about the pitch report,&nbsp;weather and probable playing XI:&nbsp;

Pitch and weather report: The Dubai surface has normally been two-paced. While the Punjab Kings (PBKS) versus Rajasthan Royals (RR) clash was a high-scoring thriller, on Tuesday (September 21), the pacers had a huge say on the game. The same can be expected this evening and if it is a used surface, the score can come down to 155-160.

In terms of weather, the players will continue to feel the heat with humidity whereas&nbsp;there is no chance of rain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-dc-vs-srh-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-delhi-capitals-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-414827">IPL 2021, DC vs SRH, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad?</a>

Predicted playing XIs:

Delhi Capitals probable XI: Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (c&amp;wk), Marcus Stoinis, Shimron Hetmyer, Axar Patel/Amit Mishra, R Ashwin, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Avesh Khan

Sunrisers Hyderabad probable XI: David Warner, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Kane Williamson (c), Manish Pandey, Vijay Shankar, Abdul Samad, Jason Holder/Mohamad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sandeep Sharma, T Natarajan/Khaleel Ahmed

Match 33 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) square off against each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Match 33 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) square off against each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Pant & Co. will have another chance to regain the top spot in the points table and will give their all. On the other hand, Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are at the bottom and desperately need to revamp and start the UAE leg in style. It will be a tough task for SRH to get the better of DC, who comprise Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Marcus Stoinis, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, etc. Ahead of match 33, here's everything you need to know about the pitch report, weather and probable playing XI: Pitch and weather report: The Dubai surface has normally been two-paced. While the Punjab Kings (PBKS) versus Rajasthan Royals (RR) clash was a high-scoring thriller, on Tuesday (September 21), the pacers had a huge say on the game. The same can be expected this evening and if it is a used surface, the score can come down to 155-160. In terms of weather, the players will continue to feel the heat with humidity whereas there is no chance of rain. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, DC vs SRH, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad? Predicted playing XIs: Delhi Capitals probable XI: Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (c&wk), Marcus Stoinis, Shimron Hetmyer, Axar Patel/Amit Mishra, R Ashwin, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Avesh Khan Sunrisers Hyderabad probable XI: David Warner, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Kane Williamson (c), Manish Pandey, Vijay Shankar, Abdul Samad, Jason Holder/Mohamad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sandeep Sharma, T Natarajan/Khaleel Ahmed

IPL 2021, DC vs SRH : Pitch report, weather and probable playing XIs for Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match

Match 32 of the IPL 2021 edition saw two perennial underachievers of the tournament in Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) and KL Rahul's Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21).&nbsp;

While it was expected to be a modest-scoring encounter, the match was a high-scoring affair where Rahul &amp; Co. went down to Rajasthan Royals, by 2 runs, to start their second and final leg, in the UAE, in a disappointing note whereas this is a morale-boosting win for Samson &amp; Co.

Opting to bowl first in Dubai, Rahul &amp; Co.'s bowlers once again didn't start well as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Evin Lewis unleashed their attacking side from the word go. Lewis, who departed for a well-made 21-ball 36, fell with RR 54 for 1 in 5.3 overs. While Samson couldn't do much and fell for 4, Jaiswal continued to attack and kept the scoreboard ticking at a brisk pace.&nbsp;

While Jaiswal fell at the stroke of his maiden IPL fifty, Liam Livingstone and Mahipal Lomror's scintillating cameos, filled with some attractive shots, kept RR ahead. Mohammed Shami's 3-fer and excellent death bowling from youngster Arshdeep Singh, who returned with 5 for 32, however, kept RR below the 200-run mark.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-dc-skipper-rishabh-pant-shares-his-biggest-learning-from-india-legend-and-csk-captain-ms-dhoni-414729">IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant shares his biggest learning from India legend and CSK captain MS Dhoni</a>

Chasing 186, PBKS were off to a flier with openers Rahul and Mayank Agarwal timing the run-chase with ease, finding the gaps and running hard between wickets. Another 100-run stand from Mayank-Rahul took Punjab to a perfect start. Personal milestones came in the way for the two openers as Mayank surpassed the 2000-run mark in IPL history whereas Rahul crossed the 3,000-run mark with his sublime form, reclaiming the Orange Cap.

After the two openers left, Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran kept Punjab on course for an easy win. The duo took the team to the last over, courtesy some brilliant fielding and death-over bowling from Rajasthan, but Karthik Tyagi kept his nerves to pull off a heist for his side, defending 4 runs and conceding only a single in the final over.

Tyagi finished with 2 for 29 whereas Mustafizur Rahman pulled things back with his economical spell, 0 for 30 (4). RR move to the fifth position whereas PBKS are in the seventh spot. Yet again, they have managed to throw away a game which was theirs to lose.

Match 32 of the IPL 2021 edition saw two perennial underachievers of the tournament in Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) and KL Rahul's Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21).

Match 32 of the IPL 2021 edition saw two perennial underachievers of the tournament in Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) and KL Rahul's Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21). While it was expected to be a modest-scoring encounter, the match was a high-scoring affair where Rahul & Co. went down to Rajasthan Royals, by 2 runs, to start their second and final leg, in the UAE, in a disappointing note whereas this is a morale-boosting win for Samson & Co. Opting to bowl first in Dubai, Rahul & Co.'s bowlers once again didn't start well as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Evin Lewis unleashed their attacking side from the word go. Lewis, who departed for a well-made 21-ball 36, fell with RR 54 for 1 in 5.3 overs. While Samson couldn't do much and fell for 4, Jaiswal continued to attack and kept the scoreboard ticking at a brisk pace. While Jaiswal fell at the stroke of his maiden IPL fifty, Liam Livingstone and Mahipal Lomror's scintillating cameos, filled with some attractive shots, kept RR ahead. Mohammed Shami's 3-fer and excellent death bowling from youngster Arshdeep Singh, who returned with 5 for 32, however, kept RR below the 200-run mark. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant shares his biggest learning from India legend and CSK captain MS Dhoni Chasing 186, PBKS were off to a flier with openers Rahul and Mayank Agarwal timing the run-chase with ease, finding the gaps and running hard between wickets. Another 100-run stand from Mayank-Rahul took Punjab to a perfect start. Personal milestones came in the way for the two openers as Mayank surpassed the 2000-run mark in IPL history whereas Rahul crossed the 3,000-run mark with his sublime form, reclaiming the Orange Cap. After the two openers left, Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran kept Punjab on course for an easy win. The duo took the team to the last over, courtesy some brilliant fielding and death-over bowling from Rajasthan, but Karthik Tyagi kept his nerves to pull off a heist for his side, defending 4 runs and conceding only a single in the final over. Tyagi finished with 2 for 29 whereas Mustafizur Rahman pulled things back with his economical spell, 0 for 30 (4). RR move to the fifth position whereas PBKS are in the seventh spot. Yet again, they have managed to throw away a game which was theirs to lose.

IPL 2021: Karthik Tyagi's death-over heroics takes Sanju Samson-led RR to thrilling win over KL Rahul's PBKS

Ahead of Delhi Capitals (DC) first game in the second and final leg of IPL 2021, stand-in captain Rishabh Pant has revealed his biggest learning from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni. It isn't unknown that Pant sees Dhoni as his mentor and recently shared what he has imbibed the most as a leader from the former Indian keeper-batsman.

At a press conference organised by DC franchise, ahead of their clash versus Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday (September 22), Pant told during interaction with the reporters, "Biggest learning is to focus on the process and results will follow. That's one of the biggest mantras that I have been following for a while now and it helps."

He also further asserted, "I have learned from Ricky that you have to treat everyone equally in the team. From junior players to senior players to coach, if you respect everyone in the team, it will be a good combination. When you start respecting players and the support staff around you, special things happen. When you respect them, they are going to give whatever they have for you. That's what you want as a skipper - for the team to stand for you each and every time."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-blessed-to-have-2-players-like-ms-dhoni-in-rishabh-pant-and-ishan-kishan-says-saba-karim-370885">India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim</a>

For the unversed, Pant had taken over as the DC captain ahead of IPL 2021's first leg with a shoulder injury to regular captain Shreyas Iyer. Despite Iyer being deemed fit and returning to the DC camp for the UAE leg, the one-time runners-up have kept Pant as the captain for the rest of the season to maintain continuity. The young wicketkeeper-batsman will hope to take DC to their maiden IPL title, after they ended as runners-up in IPL 2020 in the UAE.

DC are at the second spot in the points table, with 6 wins from 8 encounters.

Ahead of Delhi Capitals (DC) first game in the second and final leg of IPL 2021, stand-in captain Rishabh Pant has revealed his biggest learning from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni.

Ahead of Delhi Capitals (DC) first game in the second and final leg of IPL 2021, stand-in captain Rishabh Pant has revealed his biggest learning from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni. It isn't unknown that Pant sees Dhoni as his mentor and recently shared what he has imbibed the most as a leader from the former Indian keeper-batsman. At a press conference organised by DC franchise, ahead of their clash versus Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday (September 22), Pant told during interaction with the reporters, "Biggest learning is to focus on the process and results will follow. That's one of the biggest mantras that I have been following for a while now and it helps." He also further asserted, "I have learned from Ricky that you have to treat everyone equally in the team. From junior players to senior players to coach, if you respect everyone in the team, it will be a good combination. When you start respecting players and the support staff around you, special things happen. When you respect them, they are going to give whatever they have for you. That's what you want as a skipper - for the team to stand for you each and every time." ALSO READ | India blessed to have 2 players like MS Dhoni in Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan, says Saba Karim For the unversed, Pant had taken over as the DC captain ahead of IPL 2021's first leg with a shoulder injury to regular captain Shreyas Iyer. Despite Iyer being deemed fit and returning to the DC camp for the UAE leg, the one-time runners-up have kept Pant as the captain for the rest of the season to maintain continuity. The young wicketkeeper-batsman will hope to take DC to their maiden IPL title, after they ended as runners-up in IPL 2020 in the UAE. DC are at the second spot in the points table, with 6 wins from 8 encounters.

IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant shares his biggest learning from India legend and CSK captain MS Dhoni

Cricket fans in Afghanistan will not get to watch the UAE leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the ruling Taliban has banned the broadcast of the matches in the country terming the content as "anti-Islamic". 
 
The second leg of the IPL started on Sunday but the cricket fanatic people of Afghanistan did not get to watch the matches as the Taliban has issued a diktat to the local media against showing the IPL because of the presence of women as cheerleaders and among the watching public in UAE. 
 
Former broadcaster and journalist Fawad Aman, who has served as spokesperson of the Ministry of Defence, termed the ban imposed by the Taliban on IPL as "ridiculous". 
 
"Ridiculous: Taliban have banned the broadcasting of Indian Premier League (IPL) in Afghanistan. Taliban have warned that Afghan media outlets should not broadcast the Indian Cricket League due to girls dancing and the presence of female audience and spectators in stadiums," he tweeted. 
 
Journalist and former Afghanistan Cricket Board media manager M Ibrahim Momand said the live broadcast of the IPL matches was banned because the content was deemed to be "anti-Islam". 
 
"Afghanistan national (TV) will not broadcast the @IPL as usual as it was reportedly banned to live telecast as the matches resumed tonight due to possible anti-Islam contents, girls dancing &amp; the attendance of barred hair women in the Stadium by the Islamic Emirates of the Taliban," he tweeted before the opening match of this leg of IPL. 
 
Ever since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, women have been banned from working in offices or participating in sports activities as that is considered anti-Islam. 
 
Cricket Australia have called off a one-off Test against the Afghanistan men`s team because of the Taliban`s opposition to women`s participation in sports.

Cricket fans in Afghanistan will not get to watch the UAE leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the ruling Taliban has banned the broadcast of the matches in the country terming the content as "anti-Islamic".

Cricket fans in Afghanistan will not get to watch the UAE leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the ruling Taliban has banned the broadcast of the matches in the country terming the content as "anti-Islamic". The second leg of the IPL started on Sunday but the cricket fanatic people of Afghanistan did not get to watch the matches as the Taliban has issued a diktat to the local media against showing the IPL because of the presence of women as cheerleaders and among the watching public in UAE. Former broadcaster and journalist Fawad Aman, who has served as spokesperson of the Ministry of Defence, termed the ban imposed by the Taliban on IPL as "ridiculous". "Ridiculous: Taliban have banned the broadcasting of Indian Premier League (IPL) in Afghanistan. Taliban have warned that Afghan media outlets should not broadcast the Indian Cricket League due to girls dancing and the presence of female audience and spectators in stadiums," he tweeted. Journalist and former Afghanistan Cricket Board media manager M Ibrahim Momand said the live broadcast of the IPL matches was banned because the content was deemed to be "anti-Islam". "Afghanistan national (TV) will not broadcast the @IPL as usual as it was reportedly banned to live telecast as the matches resumed tonight due to possible anti-Islam contents, girls dancing & the attendance of barred hair women in the Stadium by the Islamic Emirates of the Taliban," he tweeted before the opening match of this leg of IPL. Ever since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, women have been banned from working in offices or participating in sports activities as that is considered anti-Islam. Cricket Australia have called off a one-off Test against the Afghanistan men`s team because of the Taliban`s opposition to women`s participation in sports.

Taliban bans broadcast of IPL 2021 matches in Afghanistan

Royal Challengers Bangalore batsman AB de Villiers has set an unwanted record as he made a golden duck in Monday night`s Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders, their first match in the UAE leg of the 2021 edition. 
 
De Villiers was bowled by KKR`s Andre Russell off a scorching yorker on the first ball he faced. It was the sixth time that de Villiers had got out for a golden duck in the IPL.&nbsp; In 163 innings of 172 matches, de Villiers has scored 5056 runs in the IPL. 
 
It was also the 10th time that de Villiers got a duck in the IPL and he is fifth among the current lot of players in IPL to have got out for zero, 10 or more times. 
 
Among the current players, Ambati Rayudu of Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma top the list as they have got out for a duck on 13 occasions in the IPL. Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, Parthiv Patel, and Ajinkya Rahane too have got out for zero on 13 occasions. 
 
Among those playing in this edition of the IPL, Australia`s Glenn Maxwell and former KKR captain Dinesh Karthik have got out for zero 11 times in IPL. 
&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore batsman AB de Villiers has set an unwanted record as he made a golden duck in Monday night`s Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders, their first match in the UAE leg of the 2021 edition.

Royal Challengers Bangalore batsman AB de Villiers has set an unwanted record as he made a golden duck in Monday night`s Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders, their first match in the UAE leg of the 2021 edition. De Villiers was bowled by KKR`s Andre Russell off a scorching yorker on the first ball he faced. It was the sixth time that de Villiers had got out for a golden duck in the IPL. In 163 innings of 172 matches, de Villiers has scored 5056 runs in the IPL. It was also the 10th time that de Villiers got a duck in the IPL and he is fifth among the current lot of players in IPL to have got out for zero, 10 or more times. Among the current players, Ambati Rayudu of Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma top the list as they have got out for a duck on 13 occasions in the IPL. Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, Parthiv Patel, and Ajinkya Rahane too have got out for zero on 13 occasions. Among those playing in this edition of the IPL, Australia`s Glenn Maxwell and former KKR captain Dinesh Karthik have got out for zero 11 times in IPL.

IPL 2021: AB De Villiers gets out for zero for the 10th time after RCB's flop show vs KKR

Wasim Jaffer is a social media sensation. His tweets are often hilarious, which breaks the internet and the former Indian opener has become a huge hit on the social media platforms since late 2020.&nbsp;

However, Jaffer doesn't refrain from talking on important subjects from time to time. With Pakistan Cricket in shambles following New Zealand and England cancelling their respective tours to the Asian country, on security grounds, Jaffer extended his support to Pakistan and wrote, "The @RealPCB &nbsp;have every reason to be disappointed with the ECB. Pak and WI toured England last year during pandemic before vaccines. England owes so much to both Pak and WI. Least ECB could do is not cancel the reciprocal tours. There are no winners when cricket is cancelled."

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheRealPCB</a> have every reason to be disappointed with the ECB. Pak and WI toured England last year during pandemic before vaccines. England owes so much to both Pak and WI. Least ECB could do is not cancel the reciprocal tours. There are no winners when cricket is cancelled.
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1440004345634775044?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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To this, a fan accused him of supporting Pakistan during Indo-Pak games in the name of 'sporting spirit'. While the fan has now deleted his tweet, he had written, "Wasim bhai wahi hai jo India Pakistan ke match main Pakistan ko cheer karte hai in the name of sporting spirit." Thus, Jaffer didn't hold back and gave a fitting response.&nbsp;

Here's how he shut his troll in style -

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<a href="https://t.co/sTN8DxY3zo">https://t.co/sTN8DxY3zo</a> <a href="https://t.co/esEkPTYUru">pic.twitter.com/esEkPTYUru</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1440223707444617216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-wasim-jaffer-leaves-netizens-rofl-as-he-shares-his-players-to-watch-out-for-rcb-vs-kkr-clash-414465">IPL 2021: Wasim Jaffer leaves netizens ROFL as he shares his players to watch out for RCB vs KKR clash</a>

For the unversed, Pakistan cricket is in disarray with New Zealand and England pulling out from touring the Asian giants on security grounds. This has put Pakistan in serious threat of losing out on hosting international games once again, just when they were set to host a number of big teams in the near future.

Wasim Jaffer is a social media sensation. His tweets are often hilarious, which breaks the internet and the former Indian opener has become a huge hit on the social media platforms since late 2020.

Wasim Jaffer is a social media sensation. His tweets are often hilarious, which breaks the internet and the former Indian opener has become a huge hit on the social media platforms since late 2020. However, Jaffer doesn't refrain from talking on important subjects from time to time. With Pakistan Cricket in shambles following New Zealand and England cancelling their respective tours to the Asian country, on security grounds, Jaffer extended his support to Pakistan and wrote, "The @RealPCB have every reason to be disappointed with the ECB. Pak and WI toured England last year during pandemic before vaccines. England owes so much to both Pak and WI. Least ECB could do is not cancel the reciprocal tours. There are no winners when cricket is cancelled." The @TheRealPCB have every reason to be disappointed with the ECB. Pak and WI toured England last year during pandemic before vaccines. England owes so much to both Pak and WI. Least ECB could do is not cancel the reciprocal tours. There are no winners when cricket is cancelled. — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) September 20, 2021 × To this, a fan accused him of supporting Pakistan during Indo-Pak games in the name of 'sporting spirit'. While the fan has now deleted his tweet, he had written, "Wasim bhai wahi hai jo India Pakistan ke match main Pakistan ko cheer karte hai in the name of sporting spirit." Thus, Jaffer didn't hold back and gave a fitting response. Here's how he shut his troll in style - https://t.co/sTN8DxY3zo pic.twitter.com/esEkPTYUru — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) September 21, 2021 × ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Wasim Jaffer leaves netizens ROFL as he shares his players to watch out for RCB vs KKR clash For the unversed, Pakistan cricket is in disarray with New Zealand and England pulling out from touring the Asian giants on security grounds. This has put Pakistan in serious threat of losing out on hosting international games once again, just when they were set to host a number of big teams in the near future.

Wasim Jaffer gives fitting response to fan who accused him of backing Pakistan in Indo-Pak matches

IPL 2021's match 32 will see Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21). Both sides have been involved in some thrilling encounters in the past and the same is expected when the two unpredictable teams meet for the second time in the season and first in the UAE leg.

Talking about the last time both sides met, in Mumbai, it was a high-voltage contest. Riding on KL Rahul's 91 and Deepak Hooda's whirlwind 64, off 28 balls, PBKS posted 221-6. It seemed that Rahul &amp; Co. were set to lose, however, Sanju Samson's 119 went in vain as RR lost the contest in the final few balls to lose by 4 runs. Considering both sides remain alive in the playoffs race and are still in the bottom four, they will give their all in the upcoming contest.

Ahead of match 32, here's everything you need to know about the pitch report,&nbsp;weather and probable playing XI:&nbsp;

Weather and pitch report: The bigger outfield on one side could mean that the encounter won't be a high-scoring one as it was the case when both sides met early this year. The two-paced nature of the surface witnessed during the CSK-MI clash, on Sunday, gives a sneak peek of things to look forward to in the Dubai venue. On the weather, it is going to be another hot day, with humidity at 59 percent, and zero percentage of precipitation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-pbks-vs-rr-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-punjab-kings-vs-rajasthan-royals-414628">IPL 2021, PBKS vs RR, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals?</a>

Playing XIs

PBKS Probable XI: KL Rahul (c &amp; wk), Mayank Agarwal, Chris Gayle/Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Deepak Hooda, Shahrukh Khan, Adil Rashid, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Nathan Ellis, Mohammed Shami

RR Probable XI: &nbsp;Evin Lewis, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (c &amp; wk), Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube, Liam Livingstone, Rahul Tewatia, Chris Morris, Chetan Sakariya, Kartik Tyagi, Mustafizur Rahman/Tabraiz Shamsi. 
&nbsp;

IPL 2021's match 32 will see Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21).

IPL 2021's match 32 will see Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21). Both sides have been involved in some thrilling encounters in the past and the same is expected when the two unpredictable teams meet for the second time in the season and first in the UAE leg. Talking about the last time both sides met, in Mumbai, it was a high-voltage contest. Riding on KL Rahul's 91 and Deepak Hooda's whirlwind 64, off 28 balls, PBKS posted 221-6. It seemed that Rahul & Co. were set to lose, however, Sanju Samson's 119 went in vain as RR lost the contest in the final few balls to lose by 4 runs. Considering both sides remain alive in the playoffs race and are still in the bottom four, they will give their all in the upcoming contest. Ahead of match 32, here's everything you need to know about the pitch report, weather and probable playing XI: Weather and pitch report: The bigger outfield on one side could mean that the encounter won't be a high-scoring one as it was the case when both sides met early this year. The two-paced nature of the surface witnessed during the CSK-MI clash, on Sunday, gives a sneak peek of things to look forward to in the Dubai venue. On the weather, it is going to be another hot day, with humidity at 59 percent, and zero percentage of precipitation. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, PBKS vs RR, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals? Playing XIs PBKS Probable XI: KL Rahul (c & wk), Mayank Agarwal, Chris Gayle/Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Deepak Hooda, Shahrukh Khan, Adil Rashid, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Nathan Ellis, Mohammed Shami RR Probable XI: Evin Lewis, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (c & wk), Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube, Liam Livingstone, Rahul Tewatia, Chris Morris, Chetan Sakariya, Kartik Tyagi, Mustafizur Rahman/Tabraiz Shamsi.

IPL 2021, RR vs PBKS: Pitch report, weather and probable playing XIs for Rajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings match

Match 31 of the ongoing IPL 2021 edition will see Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face each other at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Monday evening (September 20).&nbsp;

The two teams have had contrasting campaigns so far in the first-ever IPL season which is being played in two halves. While the Kohli-led RCB franchise are at the third place, with 5 wins from 7 encounters, the KKR outfit find themselves at the seventh spot, with only 2&nbsp;wins from 7 games. Thus, they will hope for a better start to the second and final leg of IPL 14, when they take on the RCB camp.&nbsp;

As far as the match between RCB and KKR is considered, here is everything you need to know about the clash:

Head to Head record:&nbsp;

The KKR franchise have a better record versus the RCB unit. In head-to-head encounters overall, KKR lead RCB 14-13 but Kohli &amp; Co. have managed to narrow down their lead in recent times. In the first leg of IPL 2021, RCB thrashed KKR by 38 runs in Chennai.

Stats:

On Monday, Kohli is set to become the first-ever player become the first player to feature in 200 matches in one T20 tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rcb-vs-kkr-pitch-report-weather-and-probable-playing-xis-for-royal-challengers-bangalore-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-414429">IPL 2021, RCB vs KKR: Pitch report, weather and probable playing XIs for Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders match</a>

Trivia:&nbsp;

-&nbsp;RCB great AB de&nbsp;Villiers has three consecutive half-centuries against the Kolkata franchise. He was the Man-of-the-Match the last time both sides faced each other.

 
- For the unversed, both Russell and Narine have a strike rate of 200 or more against the Bengaluru bowlers.

Squads:

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Kolkata Knight Riders&nbsp;Squad: Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Eoin Morgan(c), Andre Russell, Dinesh Karthik(w), Lockie Ferguson, Shivam Mavi, Prasidh Krishna, Varun Chakravarthy, Harbhajan Singh, Tim Southee, Shakib Al Hasan, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Pawan Negi, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Sheldon Jackson, Sandeep Warrier, Tim Seifert, Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Vaibhav Arora

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Royal Challengers Bangalore&nbsp;Squad: Virat Kohli(c), Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers(w), Shahbaz Ahmed, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kyle Jamieson, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Daniel Christian, Dushmantha Chameera, Sachin Baby, Srikar Bharat, Navdeep Saini, Pavan Deshpande, Mohammed Azharuddeen, George Garton, Suyash Prabhudessai, Tim David, Akash Deep

&nbsp;

Match 31 of the ongoing IPL 2021 edition will see Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face each other at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Monday evening (September 20).

Match 31 of the ongoing IPL 2021 edition will see Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face each other at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on Monday evening (September 20). The two teams have had contrasting campaigns so far in the first-ever IPL season which is being played in two halves. While the Kohli-led RCB franchise are at the third place, with 5 wins from 7 encounters, the KKR outfit find themselves at the seventh spot, with only 2 wins from 7 games. Thus, they will hope for a better start to the second and final leg of IPL 14, when they take on the RCB camp. As far as the match between RCB and KKR is considered, here is everything you need to know about the clash: Head to Head record: The KKR franchise have a better record versus the RCB unit. In head-to-head encounters overall, KKR lead RCB 14-13 but Kohli & Co. have managed to narrow down their lead in recent times. In the first leg of IPL 2021, RCB thrashed KKR by 38 runs in Chennai. Stats: On Monday, Kohli is set to become the first-ever player become the first player to feature in 200 matches in one T20 tournament. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, RCB vs KKR: Pitch report, weather and probable playing XIs for Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders match Trivia: - RCB great AB de Villiers has three consecutive half-centuries against the Kolkata franchise. He was the Man-of-the-Match the last time both sides faced each other. - For the unversed, both Russell and Narine have a strike rate of 200 or more against the Bengaluru bowlers. Squads: Kolkata Knight Riders Squad: Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Eoin Morgan(c), Andre Russell, Dinesh Karthik(w), Lockie Ferguson, Shivam Mavi, Prasidh Krishna, Varun Chakravarthy, Harbhajan Singh, Tim Southee, Shakib Al Hasan, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Pawan Negi, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Sheldon Jackson, Sandeep Warrier, Tim Seifert, Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Vaibhav Arora Royal Challengers Bangalore Squad: Virat Kohli(c), Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, AB de Villiers(w), Shahbaz Ahmed, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kyle Jamieson, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Daniel Christian, Dushmantha Chameera, Sachin Baby, Srikar Bharat, Navdeep Saini, Pavan Deshpande, Mohammed Azharuddeen, George Garton, Suyash Prabhudessai, Tim David, Akash Deep

IPL 2021: Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

Axar Patel, the all-rounder of Delhi Capitals said that the team will look to repeat what they did in the previous season when it reached its maiden final and will build on the "happy memories". The team will try to go one step further in the final this season.&nbsp;

Axar was quoted as saying in a media release, "When it was announced that the second half of the tournament will be held in the UAE, I thought about our performance the last time we were here."&nbsp;

In IPL 2020, DC reached the final after a terrific run in the season but lost to Mumbai Indians in the summit clash. Axar was a vital cog for the team as he had picked up nine wickets in 15 matches last season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-to-step-down-as-rcb-captain-after-ipl-2021-414253">Virat Kohli to step down as RCB captain after IPL 2021</a>

"We have happy memories from that tournament as we reached our first-ever IPL final. We are looking to repeat our performance and hopefully, just go one step further in the final this season," he added.&nbsp;

Talking about acclimatising with the conditions in Dubai, Axar said, "It's been a drastic change for us as far as the weather is concerned. It was quite cold in England and now we are getting used to the heat here."

"When we stood on our balconies during quarantine, we got an idea about the heat, but we got to know the full extent of the weather conditions when we started practising in the nets. We are looking to get used to the conditions in the next 2-3 days," he said.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-uae-leg-all-teams-and-their-revised-squad-list-414218">IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bapu is back with the DC family and he couldn't be happier 🤩 
 
📹 | <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a> talks about happy memories of playing at these venues and the drastic change in weather conditions (and time zones 😆) from the UK to the UAE.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CapitalsUnplugged?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CapitalsUnplugged</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OctaFX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OctaFX</a> <a href="https://t.co/mBSelXkjif">pic.twitter.com/mBSelXkjif</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1439536881457254401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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When asked about his personal goals for the remainder of the IPL season, Axar said, "My personal goals are always aligned with the team goals.

"I always think about what the team needs and then set my personal goals accordingly. I always carry out my preparations according to the team's requirements. And personally, I just look to get better with every match in every season."

Axar Patel, the all-rounder of Delhi Capitals said that the team will look to repeat what they did in the previous season when it reached its maiden final and will build on the "happy memories".

Axar Patel, the all-rounder of Delhi Capitals said that the team will look to repeat what they did in the previous season when it reached its maiden final and will build on the "happy memories". The team will try to go one step further in the final this season. Axar was quoted as saying in a media release, "When it was announced that the second half of the tournament will be held in the UAE, I thought about our performance the last time we were here." In IPL 2020, DC reached the final after a terrific run in the season but lost to Mumbai Indians in the summit clash. Axar was a vital cog for the team as he had picked up nine wickets in 15 matches last season. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli to step down as RCB captain after IPL 2021 "We have happy memories from that tournament as we reached our first-ever IPL final. We are looking to repeat our performance and hopefully, just go one step further in the final this season," he added. Talking about acclimatising with the conditions in Dubai, Axar said, "It's been a drastic change for us as far as the weather is concerned. It was quite cold in England and now we are getting used to the heat here." "When we stood on our balconies during quarantine, we got an idea about the heat, but we got to know the full extent of the weather conditions when we started practising in the nets. We are looking to get used to the conditions in the next 2-3 days," he said. IN PICS | IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list Bapu is back with the DC family and he couldn't be happier 🤩 📹 | @akshar2026 talks about happy memories of playing at these venues and the drastic change in weather conditions (and time zones 😆) from the UK to the UAE.#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 #CapitalsUnplugged @OctaFX pic.twitter.com/mBSelXkjif — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) September 19, 2021 × When asked about his personal goals for the remainder of the IPL season, Axar said, "My personal goals are always aligned with the team goals. "I always think about what the team needs and then set my personal goals accordingly. I always carry out my preparations according to the team's requirements. And personally, I just look to get better with every match in every season."

Delhi Capitals will look to build on 'happy memories' from IPL 2020 and go a step further, says Axar Patel

Australia all-rounder Ellyse Perry believes that the women's Indian Premier League (IPL) is the next frontier in competitions for women's cricket all around the world. She has called upon the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to pull the trigger for organising a womens IPL after the success of the women's Big Bash League (WBBL) and The Hundred. 
 
The second leg of IPL 2021 resumes in the UAE on Sunday. Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has become the most extravagant T20 league in the world. But the women's version of the league has been confined to three editions of an exhibition tournament named "Women's T20 Challenge" since 2018.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-to-step-down-as-rcb-captain-after-ipl-2021-414253">Virat Kohli to step down as RCB captain after IPL 2021</a>

This year's edition has been postponed due to Covid-19 with no decision on re-scheduled dates though BCCI President Sourav Ganguly once mentioned about having seven to eight teams in the women's league. 
 
"I know there's been a lot of dabbling with it in terms of exhibition IPL matches for women. So, at some point it`s about pulling the trigger and putting together a full competition and hopefully that's not too far off. I`m sure the Indian girls would absolutely love that to be the case," Ellyse was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald on Sunday.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-uae-leg-all-teams-and-their-revised-squad-list-414218">IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list</a>

"It's been wonderful having a number of them playing in the WBBL over the last few years. At this stage it`s looking like they`ll be involved again this year, so reciprocally it`d be wonderful to be involved in a competition over there. The IPL takes precedence in men's cricket and I think it`s got the capacity to be just as big in many ways in the women`s game," added Ellyse. 
 
Australian players participated in women's T20 Challenge in 2018, before missing out on the 2019 and 2020 editions. Indian players have been present in the WBBL and took part in the The Hundred this year when many Australians pulled out. The 30-year-old Ellyse mentioned that starting cricket leagues for women brings wonderful opportunities in terms of business, entertainment and growing the sport in the world. 
 
"I actually think it is even more so an encouragement for other boards to seriously look at introducing professional women's T20 competitions, particularly the BCCI and a full IPL for women. Because there is a wonderful opportunity there and it`s increasingly becoming a great commercial opportunity for cricket boards to bring in a women`s side of the competition," she said. 
 
"Not just from a spectacle or entertainment point of view, but also because growing the game in their country and getting more young girls playing cricket and being involved is so important to the viability of the sport in the future. So, to me that's the role that those competitions play and it's really wonderful to see how much time and support and investment Cricket Australia have put into the WBBL and also the ECB with The Hundred and before that the Super League. The more we can have these competitions spring up around the world, I think it`s fair to say the next frontier is an IPL," concluded Ellyse.

Australia all-rounder Ellyse Perry believes that the women's Indian Premier League (IPL) is the next frontier in competitions for women's cricket all around the world.

Australia all-rounder Ellyse Perry believes that the women's Indian Premier League (IPL) is the next frontier in competitions for women's cricket all around the world. She has called upon the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to pull the trigger for organising a womens IPL after the success of the women's Big Bash League (WBBL) and The Hundred. The second leg of IPL 2021 resumes in the UAE on Sunday. Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has become the most extravagant T20 league in the world. But the women's version of the league has been confined to three editions of an exhibition tournament named "Women's T20 Challenge" since 2018. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli to step down as RCB captain after IPL 2021 This year's edition has been postponed due to Covid-19 with no decision on re-scheduled dates though BCCI President Sourav Ganguly once mentioned about having seven to eight teams in the women's league. "I know there's been a lot of dabbling with it in terms of exhibition IPL matches for women. So, at some point it`s about pulling the trigger and putting together a full competition and hopefully that's not too far off. I`m sure the Indian girls would absolutely love that to be the case," Ellyse was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald on Sunday. IN PICS | IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list "It's been wonderful having a number of them playing in the WBBL over the last few years. At this stage it`s looking like they`ll be involved again this year, so reciprocally it`d be wonderful to be involved in a competition over there. The IPL takes precedence in men's cricket and I think it`s got the capacity to be just as big in many ways in the women`s game," added Ellyse. Australian players participated in women's T20 Challenge in 2018, before missing out on the 2019 and 2020 editions. Indian players have been present in the WBBL and took part in the The Hundred this year when many Australians pulled out. The 30-year-old Ellyse mentioned that starting cricket leagues for women brings wonderful opportunities in terms of business, entertainment and growing the sport in the world. "I actually think it is even more so an encouragement for other boards to seriously look at introducing professional women's T20 competitions, particularly the BCCI and a full IPL for women. Because there is a wonderful opportunity there and it`s increasingly becoming a great commercial opportunity for cricket boards to bring in a women`s side of the competition," she said. "Not just from a spectacle or entertainment point of view, but also because growing the game in their country and getting more young girls playing cricket and being involved is so important to the viability of the sport in the future. So, to me that's the role that those competitions play and it's really wonderful to see how much time and support and investment Cricket Australia have put into the WBBL and also the ECB with The Hundred and before that the Super League. The more we can have these competitions spring up around the world, I think it`s fair to say the next frontier is an IPL," concluded Ellyse.

I think it's fair to say the next frontier is an IPL: Ellyse Perry

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