<p>Chennai Super Kings will enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to redeem themselves for last year's debacle and back to winning ways. MS Dhoni-led Chennai have several new names in their squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a></p>

<p>Suresh Raina will be returning to the team after missing out on last year's Indian Premier League. The prolific batsman has been vital in the team's campaign in the cash-rich T20 league. The addition of Robin Uthappa will add more firepower to the batting lineup.</p>

<p>Several young players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chezhian Harinishanth, Sam Curran will bolster the team. Gaikwad missed out on the opening matches for the Super Kings after testing positive for coronavirus, however, he regained his form when the tournament came to a close as he scored back-to-back half-centuries. Chezhian Harinishanth had a prolific domestic season with Tamil Nadu and he will be a player to watch out for.&nbsp;</p>

<p>English all-rounder Sam Curran's heroics in the final ODI against India in the recently concluded series will surely make him a good option in the playing XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Krishnappa Gowtham and Moeen Ali will further bolster the team's all-round option along with Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo. Chennai Super Kings have strong all-round options as they head into the cash-rich T20 league.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Probable best XI for the team:</strong> Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Sam Curran, MS Dhoni (C, Wk), Krishnappa Gowtham, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar</p>

<h2><strong>Chennai Super Kings IPL 2021 Squad:&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Faf du Plessis, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, N. Jagadeesan (wk), Robin Uthappa, MS Dhoni (c/wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Dwayne Bravo, Karn Sharma, R. Sai Kishore, Mitchell Santner, Imran Tahir, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Lungi Ngidi, KM Asif, Moeen Ali, K Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K. Bhagath Varma, C Hari Nishanth<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings will enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to redeem themselves for last year's debacle and back to winning ways. MS Dhoni-led Chennai have several new names in their squad.

Chennai Super Kings will enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to redeem themselves for last year's debacle and back to winning ways. MS Dhoni-led Chennai have several new names in their squad. ALSO READ: From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 Suresh Raina will be returning to the team after missing out on last year's Indian Premier League. The prolific batsman has been vital in the team's campaign in the cash-rich T20 league. The addition of Robin Uthappa will add more firepower to the batting lineup. Several young players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chezhian Harinishanth, Sam Curran will bolster the team. Gaikwad missed out on the opening matches for the Super Kings after testing positive for coronavirus, however, he regained his form when the tournament came to a close as he scored back-to-back half-centuries. Chezhian Harinishanth had a prolific domestic season with Tamil Nadu and he will be a player to watch out for. English all-rounder Sam Curran's heroics in the final ODI against India in the recently concluded series will surely make him a good option in the playing XI. Krishnappa Gowtham and Moeen Ali will further bolster the team's all-round option along with Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo. Chennai Super Kings have strong all-round options as they head into the cash-rich T20 league. Probable best XI for the team: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Sam Curran, MS Dhoni (C, Wk), Krishnappa Gowtham, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar Chennai Super Kings IPL 2021 Squad: Faf du Plessis, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, N. Jagadeesan (wk), Robin Uthappa, MS Dhoni (c/wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Dwayne Bravo, Karn Sharma, R. Sai Kishore, Mitchell Santner, Imran Tahir, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Lungi Ngidi, KM Asif, Moeen Ali, K Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K. Bhagath Varma, C Hari Nishanth

IPL 2021, Chennai Super Kings - Team Preview: Will Dhoni and co. become a formidable side once again?

<p>Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi was left disappointed with Cricket South Africa's decision to release some of their players in the middle of Pakistan's tour to travel to India and play the IPL.</p>

<p><b>IN PICS:&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a></p>

<p>Proteas' star players like David Miller, Quinton de Kock and fast bowlers Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi did not feature in the third ODI against Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan went on to win the third match and seal the series against the Proteas. However, the former Pakistan skipper was not impressed with CSA's decision. He took to Twitter and wrote: "Surprising to see @OfficialCSA allowing players to travel for IPL in the middle of a series. It is sad to see T20 leagues influencing international cricket. Some rethinking needs to be done!!."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-hails-pakistans-series-win-in-south-africa-375969" hreflang="en">Babar Azam hails Pakistan's series win in South Africa</a></p>

<p>Pacers Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada will join Delhi Capitals after completing their quarantine period. David Miller will join Rajasthan Royals. Quinton de Kock will join the defending champions Mumbai Indians and Lungi Ngidi will join MSD-led Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam hailed a rare series win by his team in South Africa after they defeated the hosts by 28 runs in the third and final one-day international in Centurion on Wednesday.</p>

<p>But he said Pakistan wanted to continue winning when they go into a four-match T20 series which starts in Johannesburg on Saturday.</p>


Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi was left disappointed with Cricket South Africa's decision to release some of their players in the middle of Pakistan's tour to travel to India and play the IPL.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi was left disappointed with Cricket South Africa's decision to release some of their players in the middle of Pakistan's tour to travel to India and play the IPL. IN PICS: From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 Proteas' star players like David Miller, Quinton de Kock and fast bowlers Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi did not feature in the third ODI against Pakistan. Pakistan went on to win the third match and seal the series against the Proteas. However, the former Pakistan skipper was not impressed with CSA's decision. He took to Twitter and wrote: "Surprising to see @OfficialCSA allowing players to travel for IPL in the middle of a series. It is sad to see T20 leagues influencing international cricket. Some rethinking needs to be done!!." ALSO READ: Babar Azam hails Pakistan's series win in South Africa Pacers Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada will join Delhi Capitals after completing their quarantine period. David Miller will join Rajasthan Royals. Quinton de Kock will join the defending champions Mumbai Indians and Lungi Ngidi will join MSD-led Chennai Super Kings. Pakistan captain Babar Azam hailed a rare series win by his team in South Africa after they defeated the hosts by 28 runs in the third and final one-day international in Centurion on Wednesday. But he said Pakistan wanted to continue winning when they go into a four-match T20 series which starts in Johannesburg on Saturday.

'It is sad': Shahid Afridi unimpressed with CSA for releasing cricketers to play IPL 2021

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders' Dinesh Karthik is all set to leave an impact in the upcoming Indian Premier League. The former KKR skipper conducted a Q-A session on social media ahead of the IPL 2021 when a fan asked him who is his favourite partner in KKR.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-the-aim-dinesh-karthik-confident-of-getting-a-spot-for-t20i-world-cup-375952" hreflang="en">'That's the aim!': Dinesh Karthik confident of getting a spot for T20I World Cup</a></p>

<p>Karthik took skipper Eoin Morgan’s name: “My favourite partner has to be @Eoin16. He never talks cricket in the middle, only random stuff...I enjoy doing that!”</p>

<p>DK went on to talk about his batting position for the upcoming T20 league, he said: “Yes, I am. Knowing McCullum &amp; Morgan, the batting order is going to be very flexible and it will be depending upon the situation where I will be batting,” tweeted Karthik.</p>

<p>He talked about the ‘most exciting KKR recruitment’ for this IPL. “It's always great to have Shakib Al Hasan with us, he has been a very exciting recruit for us. He has played with KKR before so it's great to have him back in our team,” Karthik replied.</p>

<p>One of his fans also asked him whether he will be a part of the Indian team in the upcoming T20I World Cup.</p>

<p>To which he responded: "That's the aim!"</p>

<p>DK was asked a similar question last year where he was pretty confident.</p>

<p>“My record in T20s has been good. A big tournament like the World Cup did not go exactly as per the plan. I could understand the one day bit (being dropped from ODIs) but even now I would like think that I stand a good chance in returning to the T20 side,” DK had told PTI.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“I have done well even in the recent domestic games that I have played. I have no reason to doubt myself (that I can’t make another comeback),” he added.</p>

<p>Dinesh Karthik last donned the iconic blue jersey back in the 2019 World Semi-Finals against New Zealand. However, after the loss, Dinesh Karthik lost his spot too.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the Tamil Nadu player bounced back in style and led his team (Tamil Nadu) to win in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in 2021.&nbsp;</p>


Kolkata Knight Riders' Dinesh Karthik is all set to leave an impact in the upcoming Indian Premier League. The former KKR skipper conducted a Q-A session on social media ahead of the IPL 2021 when a fan asked him who is his favourite partner in KKR.

Kolkata Knight Riders' Dinesh Karthik is all set to leave an impact in the upcoming Indian Premier League. The former KKR skipper conducted a Q-A session on social media ahead of the IPL 2021 when a fan asked him who is his favourite partner in KKR. Also read: 'That's the aim!': Dinesh Karthik confident of getting a spot for T20I World Cup Karthik took skipper Eoin Morgan’s name: “My favourite partner has to be @Eoin16. He never talks cricket in the middle, only random stuff...I enjoy doing that!” DK went on to talk about his batting position for the upcoming T20 league, he said: “Yes, I am. Knowing McCullum & Morgan, the batting order is going to be very flexible and it will be depending upon the situation where I will be batting,” tweeted Karthik. He talked about the ‘most exciting KKR recruitment’ for this IPL. “It's always great to have Shakib Al Hasan with us, he has been a very exciting recruit for us. He has played with KKR before so it's great to have him back in our team,” Karthik replied. One of his fans also asked him whether he will be a part of the Indian team in the upcoming T20I World Cup. To which he responded: "That's the aim!" DK was asked a similar question last year where he was pretty confident. “My record in T20s has been good. A big tournament like the World Cup did not go exactly as per the plan. I could understand the one day bit (being dropped from ODIs) but even now I would like think that I stand a good chance in returning to the T20 side,” DK had told PTI. “I have done well even in the recent domestic games that I have played. I have no reason to doubt myself (that I can’t make another comeback),” he added. Dinesh Karthik last donned the iconic blue jersey back in the 2019 World Semi-Finals against New Zealand. However, after the loss, Dinesh Karthik lost his spot too. But the Tamil Nadu player bounced back in style and led his team (Tamil Nadu) to win in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in 2021.

'My favourite partner has to be..': Dinesh Karthik interacts with fans ahead of IPL 2021

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is excited to share the dressing room with Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-royal-challengers-bangalore-team-preview-can-captain-kohli-guide-rcb-to-maiden-trophy-375940" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, Royal Challengers Bangalore - Team Preview: Can captain Kohli guide RCB to maiden trophy?</a></p>

<p>The Aussie was roped in for a whopping ₹14.25 crore by the Royal Challengers Bangalore, despite being released by Punjab Kings after a terrible 2020 season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hefty price tag despite poor show in the previous season grabbed a lot of attention. However, the Australian all-rounder said that he expected such an amount.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Not really [surprised], I thought there might be a little bit of interest. I think a lot of teams want that middle-order player; I knew there were a couple of teams who were looking for a middle-order player who can bowl off-spin as well. I am just glad two teams went hard for me and in the end, RCB got hold of me,” Glenn Maxwell said.</p>

<p>“I suppose for me, I am so excited to get going again. New team, new tournament, we are back in India, I am excited to get stuck in. It was nice to see some friendly faces and just get some of that energy that you have been conserving during the seven-day quarantine. I want to have a positive influence on the group, if I see improvement in the whole squad, I want to make sure that everything I do has a positive influence on the group,” he added.</p>

<p>The Australian could redeem himself for the last season and could prove crucial for RCB, who begin their IPL 2021 campaign against defending champions Mumbai Indians in the season opener on Friday at the Chepauk Stadium.&nbsp;</p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is excited to share the dressing room with Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League.

Royal Challengers Bangalore all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is excited to share the dressing room with Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, Royal Challengers Bangalore - Team Preview: Can captain Kohli guide RCB to maiden trophy? The Aussie was roped in for a whopping ₹14.25 crore by the Royal Challengers Bangalore, despite being released by Punjab Kings after a terrible 2020 season. The hefty price tag despite poor show in the previous season grabbed a lot of attention. However, the Australian all-rounder said that he expected such an amount. “Not really [surprised], I thought there might be a little bit of interest. I think a lot of teams want that middle-order player; I knew there were a couple of teams who were looking for a middle-order player who can bowl off-spin as well. I am just glad two teams went hard for me and in the end, RCB got hold of me,” Glenn Maxwell said. “I suppose for me, I am so excited to get going again. New team, new tournament, we are back in India, I am excited to get stuck in. It was nice to see some friendly faces and just get some of that energy that you have been conserving during the seven-day quarantine. I want to have a positive influence on the group, if I see improvement in the whole squad, I want to make sure that everything I do has a positive influence on the group,” he added. The Australian could redeem himself for the last season and could prove crucial for RCB, who begin their IPL 2021 campaign against defending champions Mumbai Indians in the season opener on Friday at the Chepauk Stadium.

IPL 2021- 'RCB got hold of me': Glenn Maxwell on ₹14.25 crore contract

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai Indians head into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as firm favourites to defend their title. Having won the IPL trophy a record five times, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit is looking stronger than ever and are likely to give major headaches to their opposition. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">After having a flawless IPL 2020, Mumbai Indians made slight changes to their squad in the auction table and bolstered it with the likes of James Neesham, Piyush Chawla, Adam Milne among others.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai Indians arguably have the most settled and power-packed squad among all IPL franchises. Their move to invest in the likes of Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik and Krunal Pandya have worked wonders – which now makes their core team.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-to-wion-selection-headache-a-good-thing-for-punjab-kings-375722" hreflang="en">Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The presence of Quinton de Kock, Suryakumar Yadav, Kieron Pollard only make them a scarier side to compete against. Not to forget the young and flamboyant Ishan Kishan. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Bumrah’s link-up with Kiwi pacer Trent Boult not only give Mumbai Indians the needed experience with the ball but also provides them variety and a world-class skill-set. The prospects of Marco Jansen and Arjun Tendulkar will only excite the MI fans even more. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In the spin department, Rahul Chahar will have Piyush Chawla to compete for a spot whereas Krunal Pandya would be the go-to option when it comes to left-arm spin.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai Indians are hot favourites to make it a hat-trick of IPL wins and there won’t be a single eyebrow raised if they go on to achieve the iconic feat.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><strong>Mumbai Indians, IPL 2021 Squad</strong><o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Rohit Sharma (c), Kieron Pollard, Quinton de Kock (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Chris Lynn, Saurabh Tiwary, Anmolpreet Singh, Aditya Tare, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Rahul Chahar, Jayant Yadav, Anukul Roy, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Dhawal Kulkarni, Mohsin Khan, Adam Milne, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Piyush Chawla, James Neesham, Yudhvir Charak, Marco Jansen, Arjun Tendulkar<o:p></o:p></p>


Mumbai Indians head into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as firm favourites to defend their title. Having won the IPL trophy a record five times, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit is looking stronger than ever and are likely to give major headaches to their opposition.

Mumbai Indians head into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as firm favourites to defend their title. Having won the IPL trophy a record five times, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit is looking stronger than ever and are likely to give major headaches to their opposition. After having a flawless IPL 2020, Mumbai Indians made slight changes to their squad in the auction table and bolstered it with the likes of James Neesham, Piyush Chawla, Adam Milne among others. Mumbai Indians arguably have the most settled and power-packed squad among all IPL franchises. Their move to invest in the likes of Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik and Krunal Pandya have worked wonders – which now makes their core team. ALSO READ: Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings The presence of Quinton de Kock, Suryakumar Yadav, Kieron Pollard only make them a scarier side to compete against. Not to forget the young and flamboyant Ishan Kishan. Bumrah’s link-up with Kiwi pacer Trent Boult not only give Mumbai Indians the needed experience with the ball but also provides them variety and a world-class skill-set. The prospects of Marco Jansen and Arjun Tendulkar will only excite the MI fans even more. In the spin department, Rahul Chahar will have Piyush Chawla to compete for a spot whereas Krunal Pandya would be the go-to option when it comes to left-arm spin. Mumbai Indians are hot favourites to make it a hat-trick of IPL wins and there won’t be a single eyebrow raised if they go on to achieve the iconic feat. IN PICS | From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 Mumbai Indians, IPL 2021 Squad Rohit Sharma (c), Kieron Pollard, Quinton de Kock (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Chris Lynn, Saurabh Tiwary, Anmolpreet Singh, Aditya Tare, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Rahul Chahar, Jayant Yadav, Anukul Roy, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Dhawal Kulkarni, Mohsin Khan, Adam Milne, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Piyush Chawla, James Neesham, Yudhvir Charak, Marco Jansen, Arjun Tendulkar

IPL 2021, Mumbai Indians - Team Preview: A dream hat-trick on cards for Rohit Sharma and Co.?

<p class="MsoNormal">Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have had a strong squad every season only to have witnessed their campaign derail each and every time. While in IPL 2020, RCB made a strong claim for their first IPL trophy, their season ended in the playoffs.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">With an aim to break the title jinx, Virat Kohli-led RCB would take the field in IPL 2021 with some new and big-name faces in the squad. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Captain Kohli will take up the opener’s slot with Devdutt Padikkal in the RCB playing XI with the likes of AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell to follow. That itself makes up for a really strong top four and RCB would be hoping for the quartet to fire all cylinders with the bat.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">With the talent of Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed and new recruits Mohammad Azharuddeen, Harshal Patel providing exciting options, RCB’s lower-middle order also looks potent and well-capable of taking the death overs by storm. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The overseas options of Dan Christian, Kyle Jamieson make the playing combination more lethal and on paper, better than ever. RCB spent heavily on the duo in a bid to solidify their all-rounder options.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The bowling attack looks pretty similar to what it was last year and the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Yuzvendra Chahal are expected to do the heavy lifting with the ball. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While the new additions have opened new opportunities for RCB, it would be interesting to see how Kohli marshals his troops in the cash-rich T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Can RCB end the trophyless run? It will depend on how they use their options.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Royal Challengers Bangalore, IPL 2021 squad<o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Virat Kohli (c), AB de Villiers (wk), Devdutt Padikkal, Finn Allen, Pavan Deshpande, Washington Sundar, Daniel Sams, Yuzvendra Chahal, Adam Zampa, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Kane Richardson, Harshal Patel, Glenn Maxwell, Sachin Baby, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen (wk), Kyle Jamieson, Daniel Christian, Suyash Prabhudessai, KS Bharat<o:p></o:p></p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have had a strong squad every season only to have witnessed their campaign derail each and every time. While in IPL 2020, RCB made a strong claim for their first IPL trophy, their season ended in the playoffs.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have had a strong squad every season only to have witnessed their campaign derail each and every time. While in IPL 2020, RCB made a strong claim for their first IPL trophy, their season ended in the playoffs. With an aim to break the title jinx, Virat Kohli-led RCB would take the field in IPL 2021 with some new and big-name faces in the squad. Captain Kohli will take up the opener’s slot with Devdutt Padikkal in the RCB playing XI with the likes of AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell to follow. That itself makes up for a really strong top four and RCB would be hoping for the quartet to fire all cylinders with the bat. With the talent of Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed and new recruits Mohammad Azharuddeen, Harshal Patel providing exciting options, RCB’s lower-middle order also looks potent and well-capable of taking the death overs by storm. The overseas options of Dan Christian, Kyle Jamieson make the playing combination more lethal and on paper, better than ever. RCB spent heavily on the duo in a bid to solidify their all-rounder options. The bowling attack looks pretty similar to what it was last year and the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Yuzvendra Chahal are expected to do the heavy lifting with the ball. While the new additions have opened new opportunities for RCB, it would be interesting to see how Kohli marshals his troops in the cash-rich T20 tournament. Can RCB end the trophyless run? It will depend on how they use their options. Royal Challengers Bangalore, IPL 2021 squad Virat Kohli (c), AB de Villiers (wk), Devdutt Padikkal, Finn Allen, Pavan Deshpande, Washington Sundar, Daniel Sams, Yuzvendra Chahal, Adam Zampa, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Kane Richardson, Harshal Patel, Glenn Maxwell, Sachin Baby, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Azharuddeen (wk), Kyle Jamieson, Daniel Christian, Suyash Prabhudessai, KS Bharat

IPL 2021, Royal Challengers Bangalore - Team Preview: Can captain Kohli guide RCB to maiden trophy?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to commence from April 9 with the final of the mega T20 tournament scheduled to be played on May 30. The IPL 2021 season opener will be played between defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai after the BCCI made a few tweaks in the scheduling for IPL 2021.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to commence from April 9 with the final of the mega T20 tournament scheduled to be played on May 30. The IPL 2021 season opener will be played between defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai after the BCCI made a few tweaks in the scheduling for IPL 2021. In the 14th edition of IPL, each franchise will play at four venues during the league stage and all matches will be played at neutral venues and no team will play at their home venue. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata & Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each. Ahead of IPL 2021, let us take a look at the team-wise complete fixture list of the 14th edition of the tournament: 🚨 BCCI announces schedule for VIVO IPL 2021 🚨 The season will kickstart on 9th April in Chennai and the final will take place on May 30th at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. More details here - https://t.co/yKxJujGGcD #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/qfaKS6prAJ — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 7, 2021 × ALSO READ: IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures Chennai Super Kings: IPL 2021 Full Fixture List 10-04 - CSK v DC, Mumbai, 7.30 pm 16-04 - Punjab Kings v CSK, Mumbai, 7.30 pm 19-04 - CSK vs Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai, 7.30 pm 21-04 - KKR vs CSK, Mumbai, 7.30 pm 25-04 - CSK vs Royal Challengers, Mumbai, 3.30 pm 28-04 - CSK vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi, 7.30 pm 01-05 - Mumbai Indians vs CSK, Delhi, 7.30 pm 05-05 - Rajasthan Royals vs CSK, Delhi, 7.30 pm 07-05 - Sunrisers Hyderabad vs CSK, Delhi, 7.30 pm 09-05 - CSK vs Punjab Kings, Bangalore, 3.30 pm 12-05 - CSK vs KKR, Bangalore, 7.30 pm 16-05 - CSK vs Mumbai Indians, Bangalore, 7.30 pm 21-05 - Capitals vs CSK, Kolkata, 7.30 pm 23-05 - RCB vs CSK, Kolkata, 7.30 pm Delhi Capitals: IPL 2021 Full Fixture List 10-04 – Mumbai – CSK vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 15-04 – Mumbai – RR vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 18-04 – Mumbai – DC vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 20-04 – Chennai – DC vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 25-04 – Chennai – SRH vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 27-04 – Ahmedabad – DC vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 7.30 pm 29-04 – Ahmedabad – DC vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 02-05 – Ahmedabad – Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 08-05 – Ahmedabad – KKR vs Delhi Capitals, 3.30 pm 11-05 – Kolkata – Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 14-05 – Kolkata – RCB vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 17-05 – Kolkata – Delhi Capitals vs SRH, 7.30 pm 21-05 – Kolkata – Delhi Capitals vs CSK, 7.30 pm 23-05 – Kolkata – Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals, 3.30 pm. Rajasthan Royals: IPL 2021 Full Fixture List 12-04 – Mumbai – Rajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 15-04 – Mumbai – Rajasthan Royals vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 19-04 – Mumbai – Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 22-04 – Mumbai – RCB vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 24-04 – Mumbai – Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 29-04 – Delhi – Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals, 3.30 pm 02-05 – Delhi – Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 3.30 pm 05-05 – Delhi – Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings, 7.30 pm 08-05 – Delhi – Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 11-05 – Kolkata – Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 13-05 – Kolkata – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 16-05 – Kolkata – Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 3.30 pm 18-05 – Bangalore – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 22-05 – Bangalore – Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm. Kolkata Knight Riders: IPL 2021 Full Fixture List 11-04 – Chennai – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 13-04 – Chennai – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 18-04 – Chennai – Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 3.30 pm 21-04 – Mumbai – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings, 7.30 pm 24-04 – Mumbai – Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 26-04 – Ahmedabad – Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 29-04 – Ahmedabad – Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 03-05 – Ahmedabad – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 7.30 pm 08-05 – Ahmedabad – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Delhi Capitals, 3.30 pm 10-05 – Bangalore – Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 12-05 – Bangalore – Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 15-05 – Bangalore – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 18-05 – Bangalore – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 21-05 – Bangalore – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 3.30 pm. Royal Challengers Bangalore: IPL 2021 Full Fixture List 09-04 – Chennai – Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 7.30 pm 14-04 – Chennai – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs RCB, 7.30 pm 18-04 – Chennai – RCB vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 3.30 pm 22-04 – Mumbai – RCB vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 25-04 – Mumbai – CSK vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 3.30 pm 27-04 – Ahmedabad – Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 7.30 pm 30-04 – Ahmedabad – Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 7.30 pm 03-05 – Ahmedabad – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 7.30 pm 06-05 – Ahmedabad – Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 09-05 – Kolkata – Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 7.30 pm 14-05 – Kolkata – Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 16-05 – Kolkata – Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 3.30 pm 20-05 – Kolkata – Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 23-05 – Kolkata – Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Chennai Super Kings, 7.30 pm. Sunrisers Hyderabad: IPL 2021 Full Fixture List 11-04 – Chennai – SRH vs KKR, 7.30 pm 14-04 – Chennai – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs RCB, 7.30 pm 17-04 – Chennai – Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 7.30 pm 21-04 – Chennai – Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 3.30 pm 25-04 – Chennai – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 28-04 – Delhi – Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 7.30 pm 02-05 – Delhi – Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 3.30 pm 04-05 – Delhi – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 07-05 – Delhi – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings, 7.30 pm 09-05 – Kolkata – Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 7.30 pm 13-05 – Kolkata – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm 17-05 – Kolkata – Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 7.30 pm 19-05 – Bangalore – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 21-05 – Bangalore – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 3.30 pm. Mumbai Indians: IPL 2021 Full Fixture List 09-04 – Chennai – Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 7.30 pm 13-04 – Chennai – KKR vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 17-04 – Chennai – Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 7.30 pm 20-04 – Chennai – DC vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 23-04 – Chennai – Punjab vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 29-04 – Delhi - Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals, 3.30 pm 01-05 – Delhi – Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings, 7.30 pm 04-05 – Delhi – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 08-05 – Delhi – Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 10-05 – Bangalore – Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 7.30 pm 13-05 – Bangalore – Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings, 3.30 pm 16-05 – Bangalore – Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 20-05 – Kolkata – RCB vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 23-05 – Kolkata – Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals, 3.30 pm Punjab Kings: IPL 2021 Full Fixture List 12-04 – Mumbai – RR vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 16-04 – Mumbai – Punjab Kings vs CSK, 7.30 pm 18-04 – Mumbai – DC vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 21-04 – Chennai – Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 3.30 pm 23-04 – Chennai – Punjab vs Mumbai Indians, 7.30 pm 26-04 – Ahmedabad – Punjab Kings vs KKR, 7.30 pm 30-04 – Ahmedabad – Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 7.30 pm 02-05 – Ahmedabad – Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals, 7.30 pm 06-05 – Ahmedabad – RCB vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 9-05 – Bangalore – CSK vs Punjab Kings, 3.30 pm 13-05 – Bangalore – Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings, 3.30 pm 15-05 – Bangalore – KKR vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 19-05 – Bangalore – SRH vs Punjab Kings, 7.30 pm 22-05 – Bangalore – Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30 pm.

IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals are one of the franchises that are yet to win an Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy. While they finished as the runners-up in IPL 2020 in the UAE, DC would be looking to go all the way in the 14<sup>th</sup> edition of IPL under the captaincy of young and exciting Rishabh Pant.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Shreyas Iyer’s injury comes as a massive blow to DC and with the regular skipper out for the season, Pant has been given the charge to lead an extremely strong squad on paper. While Iyer’s absence does shake up the team combination a bit, the Delhi outfit has a variety of skill-sets in their squad, well capable of filling Iyer’s boots. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Openers Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan’s good run of form leading into the cash-rich tournament comes as a welcome sign for DC ahead of the tournament and fans would be hoping to see the duo go all guns blazing.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/riley-meredith-shahrukh-khan-surprise-packages-who-can-take-ipl-2021-by-storm-375897" hreflang="en">Surprise packages who can take IPL 2021 by storm</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ajinkya Rahane is likely to bat at number three in Iyer’s absence and it could result in Steve Smith missing out from the playing XI for the majority part of the season. However, it would be tough for Ricky Ponting-coached outfit to bench quality player like Smith in every match. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The quality and exuberance of Shimron Hetmyer and an in-form Rishabh Pant would excite DC fans and the duo has all the abilities to win matches for their side single-handedly. Marcus Stoinis following Hetmyer and Pant makes the team balance even more lethal, something which was witnessed by all in IPL 2020.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">With Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin and Amit Mishra to follow, DC have the perfect mix and variety in the spin department. A left-arm spinner, off-spinner and wrist-spinner, DC have ticked all the boxes when it comes to spinning the web around the batters.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916" hreflang="en">List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje was one of the key reasons behind DC’s success last season. Even though the South African pacers are likely to miss the opening match, they are expected to lead the pace bowling duties throughout the season.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Chris Woakes and Tom Curran provide options to strengthen the batting and bowling unit with their quality. Whereas Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav are likely to battle for a single spot in the XI.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Overall, the Delhi Capitals look extremely well-balanced on paper and are expected to qualify for the playoffs. Anything less than that would be a major disappointment.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals: Squad<o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant (c &amp; wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Marcus Stoinis, Chris Woakes, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Amit Mishra, Lalit Yadav, Pravin Dubey, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Ishant Sharma, Avesh Khan, Steve Smith, Umesh Yadav, Ripal Patel, Vishnu Vinod, Lukman Meriwala, M Siddarth, Tom Curran, Sam Billings<o:p></o:p></p>


Delhi Capitals are one of the franchises that are yet to win an Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy. While they finished as the runners-up in IPL 2020 in the UAE, DC would be looking to go all the way in the 14th edition of IPL under the captaincy of young and exciting Rishabh Pant.

Delhi Capitals are one of the franchises that are yet to win an Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy. While they finished as the runners-up in IPL 2020 in the UAE, DC would be looking to go all the way in the 14th edition of IPL under the captaincy of young and exciting Rishabh Pant. Shreyas Iyer’s injury comes as a massive blow to DC and with the regular skipper out for the season, Pant has been given the charge to lead an extremely strong squad on paper. While Iyer’s absence does shake up the team combination a bit, the Delhi outfit has a variety of skill-sets in their squad, well capable of filling Iyer’s boots. Openers Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan’s good run of form leading into the cash-rich tournament comes as a welcome sign for DC ahead of the tournament and fans would be hoping to see the duo go all guns blazing. IN PICS | Surprise packages who can take IPL 2021 by storm Ajinkya Rahane is likely to bat at number three in Iyer’s absence and it could result in Steve Smith missing out from the playing XI for the majority part of the season. However, it would be tough for Ricky Ponting-coached outfit to bench quality player like Smith in every match. The quality and exuberance of Shimron Hetmyer and an in-form Rishabh Pant would excite DC fans and the duo has all the abilities to win matches for their side single-handedly. Marcus Stoinis following Hetmyer and Pant makes the team balance even more lethal, something which was witnessed by all in IPL 2020. With Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin and Amit Mishra to follow, DC have the perfect mix and variety in the spin department. A left-arm spinner, off-spinner and wrist-spinner, DC have ticked all the boxes when it comes to spinning the web around the batters. IN PICS | List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 The pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje was one of the key reasons behind DC’s success last season. Even though the South African pacers are likely to miss the opening match, they are expected to lead the pace bowling duties throughout the season. Chris Woakes and Tom Curran provide options to strengthen the batting and bowling unit with their quality. Whereas Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav are likely to battle for a single spot in the XI. Overall, the Delhi Capitals look extremely well-balanced on paper and are expected to qualify for the playoffs. Anything less than that would be a major disappointment. Delhi Capitals: Squad Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Marcus Stoinis, Chris Woakes, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Amit Mishra, Lalit Yadav, Pravin Dubey, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Ishant Sharma, Avesh Khan, Steve Smith, Umesh Yadav, Ripal Patel, Vishnu Vinod, Lukman Meriwala, M Siddarth, Tom Curran, Sam Billings

IPL 2021, Delhi Capitals - Team Preview: Can DC end trophy drought under Rishabh Pant's captaincy?

From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021

<p>‘Universe Boss’ Chris Gayle on Wednesday joined the Punjab Kings squad after finishing his mandatory seven-day quarantine ahead of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9. The West Indies opener is one of the key players for the Punjab outfit and the KL Rahul-led outfit would be hoping for a fruitful season from the veteran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Punjab Kings took to social media platform Twitter to post a video of Gayle while providing the update of him completing the quarantine ahead of the lucrative T20 tournament. In the video, Gayle is seen breakdancing on Michael Jackson’s famous song ‘Smooth Criminal’.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Quarantine da khatam khel, bahar aa gaye tuhadde favourite - Chris Gayle 🕺🥰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/henrygayle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@henrygayle</a> <a href="https://t.co/rrDHPZ3lvQ">pic.twitter.com/rrDHPZ3lvQ</a></p>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1379749702610997253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Gayle has played as many as 132 IPL matches while scoring a staggering 4772 runs at a strike rate of 150.11. The left-handed batsman, who batted at number three for the Punjab franchise in IPL 2020, has amassed six centuries and 31 half-centuries in the tournament while blasting 349 sixes.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-waited-for-this-opportunity-shahrukh-khan-aims-to-make-it-big-for-punjab-kings-in-ipl-2021-374299">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Last season, Gayle missed the first half of IPL but came back strong in the second half wherein he scored 288 runs in seven matches at an average of 41.44.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gayle is also set to face stiff competition from new recruits Dawid Malan, Moises Henriques, Fabian Allen for the overseas slot in the batting order.</p>

<p>Punjab Kings’ Head of Cricket Operations, Anil Kumble, in an exclusive interview with WION, talked about the selection headache as he explained how Punjab Kings planned for the auctions for the 14th edition of the tournament.</p>

<p>“What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of give support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble told WION.</p>

<p><strong>FULL INTERVIEW:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-to-wion-selection-headache-a-good-thing-for-punjab-kings-375722">Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>“So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner. Plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of you know them really free KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan. I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squat to choose from,” the former India captain and also the head of ICC’s Cricket Committee concluded.</p>

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<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916" hreflang="en">List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Punjab Kings open their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on Monday (April 12) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


‘Universe Boss’ Chris Gayle on Wednesday joined the Punjab Kings squad after finishing his mandatory seven-day quarantine ahead of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9.

‘Universe Boss’ Chris Gayle on Wednesday joined the Punjab Kings squad after finishing his mandatory seven-day quarantine ahead of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9. The West Indies opener is one of the key players for the Punjab outfit and the KL Rahul-led outfit would be hoping for a fruitful season from the veteran. Punjab Kings took to social media platform Twitter to post a video of Gayle while providing the update of him completing the quarantine ahead of the lucrative T20 tournament. In the video, Gayle is seen breakdancing on Michael Jackson’s famous song ‘Smooth Criminal’. Quarantine da khatam khel, bahar aa gaye tuhadde favourite - Chris Gayle 🕺🥰#IPL2021 #SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings @henrygayle pic.twitter.com/rrDHPZ3lvQ — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 7, 2021 × Gayle has played as many as 132 IPL matches while scoring a staggering 4772 runs at a strike rate of 150.11. The left-handed batsman, who batted at number three for the Punjab franchise in IPL 2020, has amassed six centuries and 31 half-centuries in the tournament while blasting 349 sixes. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Last season, Gayle missed the first half of IPL but came back strong in the second half wherein he scored 288 runs in seven matches at an average of 41.44. Meanwhile, Gayle is also set to face stiff competition from new recruits Dawid Malan, Moises Henriques, Fabian Allen for the overseas slot in the batting order. Punjab Kings’ Head of Cricket Operations, Anil Kumble, in an exclusive interview with WION, talked about the selection headache as he explained how Punjab Kings planned for the auctions for the 14th edition of the tournament. “What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of give support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble told WION. FULL INTERVIEW: Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings “So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner. Plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of you know them really free KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan. I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squat to choose from,” the former India captain and also the head of ICC’s Cricket Committee concluded. × IN PICS | List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 Punjab Kings open their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on Monday (April 12) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Watch: Punjab Kings' Chris Gayle dances out of quarantine ahead of IPL 2021

Riley Meredith, Shahrukh Khan: Surprise packages who can take IPL 2021 by storm

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Australian all-rounder Daniel Sams on Wednesday tested positive for COVID-19, days ahead of the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Sams tested positive for the dreaded virus, opener Devdutt Padikkal returned negative and has joined the squad.</p>

<p>According to a statement by RCB, the Australian all-rounder arrived in India on April 3 and had a negative COVID-19 test report at that time. Sams’ report on April 7 came positive and the RCB player is currently in isolation at a medical facility.</p>

<p>“Daniel Sams checked into the team hotel in Chennai on April 3rd, with a negative COVID report on arrival. His report from the 2nd test on 7th April came positive. Sams is currently asymptomatic and he is currently in isolation at a designated medical facility,” RCB said in a statement.</p>

<p>“Royal Challengers Bangalore medical team is in constant touch with Daniel Sams and continue to monitor his health and abide by the BCCI protocols."</p>

<p>Sams was traded to RCB this season from his previous franchise Delhi Capitals. The 28-year-old became the second player from the Bengaluru franchise to test positive after Padikkal.</p>

<p>"Devdutt Padikkal, has joined the team on 7th April 2021 with negative reports for Covid-19 as per BCCI protocols. RCB medical team was in constant touch with Devdutt to ensure his safety and well-being," the franchise stated in a separate release.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bold Diaries: Devdutt Padikkal joins the RCB camp after testing negative for COVID-19. He’s healthy, feeling better and raring to go. Here’s a message to all RCB fans from Devdutt.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/BtVszNABJW">pic.twitter.com/BtVszNABJW</a></p>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1379667755482243073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While Sams has played only three IPL matches with his tournament debut coming for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2020.</p>

<p>The 14th edition of IPL has been hit hard by COVID-19 with a number of groundstaff at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, broadcast crew event management officials and a few cricketers including the likes of Axar Patel, Nitish Rana testing positive for the dreaded virus early.</p>

<p>IPL 2021 is set to start from April 9, behind closed doors in India.</p>

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Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Australian all-rounder Daniel Sams on Wednesday tested positive for COVID-19, days ahead of the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Australian all-rounder Daniel Sams on Wednesday tested positive for COVID-19, days ahead of the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Sams tested positive for the dreaded virus, opener Devdutt Padikkal returned negative and has joined the squad. According to a statement by RCB, the Australian all-rounder arrived in India on April 3 and had a negative COVID-19 test report at that time. Sams’ report on April 7 came positive and the RCB player is currently in isolation at a medical facility. “Daniel Sams checked into the team hotel in Chennai on April 3rd, with a negative COVID report on arrival. His report from the 2nd test on 7th April came positive. Sams is currently asymptomatic and he is currently in isolation at a designated medical facility,” RCB said in a statement. “Royal Challengers Bangalore medical team is in constant touch with Daniel Sams and continue to monitor his health and abide by the BCCI protocols." Sams was traded to RCB this season from his previous franchise Delhi Capitals. The 28-year-old became the second player from the Bengaluru franchise to test positive after Padikkal. "Devdutt Padikkal, has joined the team on 7th April 2021 with negative reports for Covid-19 as per BCCI protocols. RCB medical team was in constant touch with Devdutt to ensure his safety and well-being," the franchise stated in a separate release. Bold Diaries: Devdutt Padikkal joins the RCB camp after testing negative for COVID-19. He’s healthy, feeling better and raring to go. Here’s a message to all RCB fans from Devdutt.#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/BtVszNABJW — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) April 7, 2021 × While Sams has played only three IPL matches with his tournament debut coming for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2020. The 14th edition of IPL has been hit hard by COVID-19 with a number of groundstaff at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, broadcast crew event management officials and a few cricketers including the likes of Axar Patel, Nitish Rana testing positive for the dreaded virus early. IPL 2021 is set to start from April 9, behind closed doors in India.

IPL 2021: RCB all-rounder tests positive for COVID-19, Devdutt Padikkal joins squad

<p class="MsoNormal">Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Team India pacer T Natarajan has recalled MS Dhoni’s advice to him about managing his fitness and bowling variations and revealed how the tips from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain helped him grow in his career.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dhoni was one of Natarjan’s 16 wickets in IPL 2020 in what was a breakthrough season for the left-arm pacer. Natarajan further talked about why he didn’t celebrate after dismissing India’s most iconic captain in IPL 2020.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“I pitched one in the slot and he hit me for a big six — 102 metres or something,” Natarajan told ESPNCricinfo, referring to the match between SRH and CSK on October 13.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The next ball I got his wicket (and didn’t celebrate) — I was just thinking about that previous ball. After coming back to the dressing room, though, I was happy,” he further said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-has-back-up-plans-for-t20-world-cup-in-india-interim-ceo-geoff-allardice-375878" hreflang="en">ICC has back-up plans for T20 World Cup in India: Interim CEO Geoff Allardice</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DidYouKnow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DidYouKnow</a>: It was <a href="https://twitter.com/Natarajan_91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Natarajan_91</a>'s<br />
dream to get Dhoni's wicket!<br />
<br />
And he fulfilled it yesterday! Way to go, Nattu! 👏🏻👏🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrangeArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrangeArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeepRising?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeepRising</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/4piXkdIuuG">pic.twitter.com/4piXkdIuuG</a></p>
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers/status/1316401103961907202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The left-arm pacer, who went on to make his India debut across formats after IPL 2020, revealed what Dhoni told him after the match.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“After finishing the match, I also had a chat with him. Speaking to somebody like Dhoni itself is a big thing. He spoke to me about fitness and encouraged me, saying that I will keep getting better with experience. He said, use slow bouncers, cutters, and variations like that. It has been useful for me,” he said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for IPL 2021 in the COVID-19-ravaged Mumbai as they gave green signals to the franchises to practice post 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels amid night curfew.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/overseas-players-give-up-on-mental-health-sourav-ganguly-says-indians-more-tolerant-in-bubble-life-375857" hreflang="en">Overseas players 'give up on mental health,' Sourav Ganguly says Indians more tolerant in bubble life</a></strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Due to the massive surge of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra, the state government on Sunday announced “Break the Chain”, under which section 144 and night-curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays has been imposed on entire Maharashtra, including Mumbai.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">IPL 2021 is set to kick-start from April 9.<br />
<o:p></o:p></p>


Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Team India pacer T Natarajan has recalled MS Dhoni’s advice to him about managing his fitness and bowling variations and revealed how the tips from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain helped him grow in his career.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Team India pacer T Natarajan has recalled MS Dhoni’s advice to him about managing his fitness and bowling variations and revealed how the tips from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain helped him grow in his career. Dhoni was one of Natarjan’s 16 wickets in IPL 2020 in what was a breakthrough season for the left-arm pacer. Natarajan further talked about why he didn’t celebrate after dismissing India’s most iconic captain in IPL 2020. “I pitched one in the slot and he hit me for a big six — 102 metres or something,” Natarajan told ESPNCricinfo, referring to the match between SRH and CSK on October 13. “The next ball I got his wicket (and didn’t celebrate) — I was just thinking about that previous ball. After coming back to the dressing room, though, I was happy,” he further said. ALSO READ: ICC has back-up plans for T20 World Cup in India: Interim CEO Geoff Allardice #DidYouKnow: It was @Natarajan_91's dream to get Dhoni's wicket! And he fulfilled it yesterday! Way to go, Nattu! 👏🏻👏🏻#OrangeArmy #KeepRising #IPL2020 pic.twitter.com/4piXkdIuuG — SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) October 14, 2020 × The left-arm pacer, who went on to make his India debut across formats after IPL 2020, revealed what Dhoni told him after the match. “After finishing the match, I also had a chat with him. Speaking to somebody like Dhoni itself is a big thing. He spoke to me about fitness and encouraged me, saying that I will keep getting better with experience. He said, use slow bouncers, cutters, and variations like that. It has been useful for me,” he said. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for IPL 2021 in the COVID-19-ravaged Mumbai as they gave green signals to the franchises to practice post 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels amid night curfew. ALSO READ: Overseas players 'give up on mental health,' Sourav Ganguly says Indians more tolerant in bubble life × Due to the massive surge of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra, the state government on Sunday announced “Break the Chain”, under which section 144 and night-curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays has been imposed on entire Maharashtra, including Mumbai. IPL 2021 is set to kick-start from April 9.

IPL 2021: SRH pacer T Natarajan reveals precious MS Dhoni advice from last season

<p>The rebranded Punjab Kings went to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction with the biggest purse and signed up some of the biggest names in the world of T20 cricket. With a well-settled squad and much-needed firepower at their helm, Punjab Kings would be looking to end their trophy drought and lift the coveted trophy in the 14th edition of the tournament, starting April 9.</p>

<p>In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, Anil Kumble, Director of Cricket Operations at Punjab Kings and the Chairman of ICC’s Cricket Committee, talked about the Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2021, auction plans, signing big-name players such as Dawid Malan and Jhye Richardson, bio-secure bubble and much more.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will be held just within six months of the previous edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which was held in the UAE. With the players and coaching staff coming together after a brief gap, Kumble feels it has given a sense of continuity when it comes to team bonding and chemistry within the squad.</p>

<p>“Yes, it does give you some sort of continuity. As you're aware, last year was the first time that I got involved with this team. And, the entire support staff was new, the captain was new. I thought we had a really good campaign. Unfortunately, the points table doesn't reflect that. But, you know, we sort of did really well as a unit. And to have this competition again, within a span of six months, it doesn't seem like we've been away from each other. So when I met, players who sort of came from last year to this year, the retained players, it felt as though we had not left the bubble at all,” Kumble, who has a staggering 619 Test wickets for India, told WION in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/mayankcricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mayankcricket</a>: Thinking about hitting another 💯 vs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RR</a>? 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://t.co/7F6FNCCRq0">pic.twitter.com/7F6FNCCRq0</a></p>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1379343121218166784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Bio-secure bubbles have become a crucial part of an athlete’s life since the COVID-19 pandemic left the entire world stunned. With rising cases of COVID-19 across the nation, bio-bubbles will play a crucial role in ensuring IPL 2021 is conducted without any hitch. Kumble explained the experience of being in the bio-bubble for previous edition of IPL while revealing Punjab Kings have appointed a sports psychologist while keeping the mental well-being of everyone associated with the franchise in mind.</p>

<p>“See, for the first time, we sort of got into a bubble last year, for the first time in the IPL for everyone, it was the first time it was very different last year, because as you're aware, you know, for six months, nobody had sort of done anything. They were at home locked down, with no access to facilities, no access to training.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“So when we started last year, it was new to all of us. So we had to tread really, really carefully in terms of understanding what it takes to be a part of this. And, and I think, there were a lot of learnings from, from the experience that we had last year, and of course, from there on, you know, for me, this is a second bubble, but then the players have been in multiple other bubbles, whether it has been their international commitments or domestic commitments. So the players are used to it,” Kumble said.</p>

<p>“But having said that, what we have done as a leadership unit, as this year is to engage with a sports psychologist who's a part of our squad, and over the last two weeks that we've been a part of this bubble. The first week, of course, we were in quarantine, in isolation in our respective rooms, and post that we've been on the ground. So it's been a great help interacting with him, having a few team chats, and also individually connecting with him. So it's wonderful to have that experience and the expertise within the group. So that is something that we wanted to address. And I'm glad that we have, we have a professional on board,” India’s highest Test wicket-taker added.</p>

<p><img alt="Kumble" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c65bc37c-8afb-4880-b9d4-3f1d21cc3d04" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kumble-2_1.JPG" /></p>

<p>Punjab Kings roped in the likes of Dawid Malan (INR 1.5 crore), Jhye Richardson (INR 14 crore), Riley Meredith (INR 8 crore), Moises Henriques (INR 4.2 crore), Jalaj Saxena (INR 30 lakh), Shahrukh Khan (INR 5.25 crore), Utkarsh Singh (INR 20 lakh), Saurabh Kumar (INR 20 lakh) in the IPL 2021 auction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The KL Rahul-led outfit snapped the world’s number one T20I batsman – Malan – for his base price while also spending big on the likes of Jhye, Allen and Meredith.</p>

<p>So what was Punjab Kings’ plan ahead of the IPL 2021 auction?</p>

<p>“The idea was to, of course, fill the gaps that we require. But at the same time, make sure that we have enough experience with the batting, plus some firepower in the bowling and make sure that we have some young, exciting talent who are extractors who could be game-changers. And that's something that we wanted to focus on,” Kumble explained.</p>

<p>“So I think overall, you pick a squad, not worrying too much about where you're going to play. You want them to adapt to any condition. And that's the kind of squad that you want to choose from. And we are happy with the existing squad and I'm really happy with the way things have come along so far.</p>

<p>“What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of giving support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble elaborated.</p>

<p><img alt="Kumble" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbd45973-3587-4748-961e-0ec78d9e3ca0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kumble-3_0.JPG" /></p>

<p>“So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner.</p>

<p>“For us, plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of freeing&nbsp;KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan, I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and we wanted to look at that it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squad&nbsp;to choose from,” he added.</p>

<p>In IPL 2020, Punjab Kings – then Kings XI Punjab – played some exciting cricket. While a couple of Super Overs, umpiring calls, and close matches, went against the outfit they caught the eyeballs with an impressive winning run in the later phase of the tournament. They had finished sixth after winning six matches and losing 8 out of their 14 games in the tournament.</p>

<p>With IPL 2021 being held in India but with a catch – no teams would be playing in their home stadium. The new regularities do bring new challenges into the scene but Kumble reckons players’ experience in playing in different conditions will come into play while adding the upcoming edition of the T20 tournament will also produce close matches considering every team is equally balanced on paper.</p>

<p><img alt="Kumble" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e1521e6-871a-424a-9bb6-730b982ede8b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kumble-1_1.JPG" /></p>

<p>“Last year, I thought we really had a good squad we started off really well. We were a bit unlucky in some of the matches with the kind of cricket we played. I didn't I didn't mean the points table. But then I thought the kind of cricket that we played at the beginning of the IPL was really solid.</p>

<p>“Unfortunately, the results didn't go away a couple of close calls, Super Overs. I mean, I thought we were the most exciting team in the IPL because we played a lot more Super Overs and created that kind of an environment, you know, close finishes. So, yes, as you said, we came really, really close. And I was really proud of the team with the way we bounced back after six losses, you know, one out of seven and then to win five in a row. And yes, we sort of fell short towards the end. But that's the IPL. But we are really proud of the way we played, we were that close to qualifying and we believe that all matches are going to be tough. All the teams are equally balanced,” Kumble said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The mains had their 👀 glued on the practice match today 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anilkumble1074</a> <a href="https://t.co/GACe5zGESS">pic.twitter.com/GACe5zGESS</a></p>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1378701680749895681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>“And as you said, the conditions are going to be fine. You can say neutral. But you know more. I think most of the players have played in all these venues. The four venues that we are going to play in, in all the players have played there. We know the conditions. So yes, you can call the neutral. But yeah, the conditions are probably the same for football teams. So all the players understand that,” he concluded.</p>

<p>Punjab Kings start their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

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The rebranded Punjab Kings went to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction with the biggest purse and signed up some of the biggest names in the world of T20 cricket.

The rebranded Punjab Kings went to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction with the biggest purse and signed up some of the biggest names in the world of T20 cricket. With a well-settled squad and much-needed firepower at their helm, Punjab Kings would be looking to end their trophy drought and lift the coveted trophy in the 14th edition of the tournament, starting April 9. In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, Anil Kumble, Director of Cricket Operations at Punjab Kings and the Chairman of ICC’s Cricket Committee, talked about the Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2021, auction plans, signing big-name players such as Dawid Malan and Jhye Richardson, bio-secure bubble and much more. × The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will be held just within six months of the previous edition of the lucrative T20 tournament, which was held in the UAE. With the players and coaching staff coming together after a brief gap, Kumble feels it has given a sense of continuity when it comes to team bonding and chemistry within the squad. “Yes, it does give you some sort of continuity. As you're aware, last year was the first time that I got involved with this team. And, the entire support staff was new, the captain was new. I thought we had a really good campaign. Unfortunately, the points table doesn't reflect that. But, you know, we sort of did really well as a unit. And to have this competition again, within a span of six months, it doesn't seem like we've been away from each other. So when I met, players who sort of came from last year to this year, the retained players, it felt as though we had not left the bubble at all,” Kumble, who has a staggering 619 Test wickets for India, told WION in an exclusive interview. .@anilkumble1074 to @mayankcricket: Thinking about hitting another 💯 vs #RR? 😉#SaddaPunjab #IPL2021 #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/7F6FNCCRq0 — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 6, 2021 × Bio-secure bubbles have become a crucial part of an athlete’s life since the COVID-19 pandemic left the entire world stunned. With rising cases of COVID-19 across the nation, bio-bubbles will play a crucial role in ensuring IPL 2021 is conducted without any hitch. Kumble explained the experience of being in the bio-bubble for previous edition of IPL while revealing Punjab Kings have appointed a sports psychologist while keeping the mental well-being of everyone associated with the franchise in mind. “See, for the first time, we sort of got into a bubble last year, for the first time in the IPL for everyone, it was the first time it was very different last year, because as you're aware, you know, for six months, nobody had sort of done anything. They were at home locked down, with no access to facilities, no access to training. “So when we started last year, it was new to all of us. So we had to tread really, really carefully in terms of understanding what it takes to be a part of this. And, and I think, there were a lot of learnings from, from the experience that we had last year, and of course, from there on, you know, for me, this is a second bubble, but then the players have been in multiple other bubbles, whether it has been their international commitments or domestic commitments. So the players are used to it,” Kumble said. “But having said that, what we have done as a leadership unit, as this year is to engage with a sports psychologist who's a part of our squad, and over the last two weeks that we've been a part of this bubble. The first week, of course, we were in quarantine, in isolation in our respective rooms, and post that we've been on the ground. So it's been a great help interacting with him, having a few team chats, and also individually connecting with him. So it's wonderful to have that experience and the expertise within the group. So that is something that we wanted to address. And I'm glad that we have, we have a professional on board,” India’s highest Test wicket-taker added. Punjab Kings roped in the likes of Dawid Malan (INR 1.5 crore), Jhye Richardson (INR 14 crore), Riley Meredith (INR 8 crore), Moises Henriques (INR 4.2 crore), Jalaj Saxena (INR 30 lakh), Shahrukh Khan (INR 5.25 crore), Utkarsh Singh (INR 20 lakh), Saurabh Kumar (INR 20 lakh) in the IPL 2021 auction. The KL Rahul-led outfit snapped the world’s number one T20I batsman – Malan – for his base price while also spending big on the likes of Jhye, Allen and Meredith. So what was Punjab Kings’ plan ahead of the IPL 2021 auction? “The idea was to, of course, fill the gaps that we require. But at the same time, make sure that we have enough experience with the batting, plus some firepower in the bowling and make sure that we have some young, exciting talent who are extractors who could be game-changers. And that's something that we wanted to focus on,” Kumble explained. “So I think overall, you pick a squad, not worrying too much about where you're going to play. You want them to adapt to any condition. And that's the kind of squad that you want to choose from. And we are happy with the existing squad and I'm really happy with the way things have come along so far. “What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of giving support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble elaborated. “So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner. “For us, plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of freeing KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan, I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and we wanted to look at that it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squad to choose from,” he added. In IPL 2020, Punjab Kings – then Kings XI Punjab – played some exciting cricket. While a couple of Super Overs, umpiring calls, and close matches, went against the outfit they caught the eyeballs with an impressive winning run in the later phase of the tournament. They had finished sixth after winning six matches and losing 8 out of their 14 games in the tournament. With IPL 2021 being held in India but with a catch – no teams would be playing in their home stadium. The new regularities do bring new challenges into the scene but Kumble reckons players’ experience in playing in different conditions will come into play while adding the upcoming edition of the T20 tournament will also produce close matches considering every team is equally balanced on paper. “Last year, I thought we really had a good squad we started off really well. We were a bit unlucky in some of the matches with the kind of cricket we played. I didn't I didn't mean the points table. But then I thought the kind of cricket that we played at the beginning of the IPL was really solid. “Unfortunately, the results didn't go away a couple of close calls, Super Overs. I mean, I thought we were the most exciting team in the IPL because we played a lot more Super Overs and created that kind of an environment, you know, close finishes. So, yes, as you said, we came really, really close. And I was really proud of the team with the way we bounced back after six losses, you know, one out of seven and then to win five in a row. And yes, we sort of fell short towards the end. But that's the IPL. But we are really proud of the way we played, we were that close to qualifying and we believe that all matches are going to be tough. All the teams are equally balanced,” Kumble said. The mains had their 👀 glued on the practice match today 👌#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #IPL2021 @anilkumble1074 pic.twitter.com/GACe5zGESS — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 4, 2021 × “And as you said, the conditions are going to be fine. You can say neutral. But you know more. I think most of the players have played in all these venues. The four venues that we are going to play in, in all the players have played there. We know the conditions. So yes, you can call the neutral. But yeah, the conditions are probably the same for football teams. So all the players understand that,” he concluded. Punjab Kings start their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Anil Kumble to WION: With new additions, Punjab Kings got all bases covered at auction

<p>Punjab Kings have been eyeing the coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy for long&nbsp;and with an eye to end the title jinx, the rebranded outfit would be heading into the 14th edition of the tournament after strengthening the squad at the auction table. With new additions in the team with the likes of Dawid Malan, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Shahrukh Khan among others, Punjab Kings are looking at a selection headache for the upcoming edition of the lucrative T20 tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anil Kumble, the Director of Cricket Operations at Punjab Kings, in an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, talked about the selection headache for the KL Rahul-led outfit while also sharing the plans for the auction.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Punjab Kings signed a few big-name players in the world of T20 cricket during the 2021 auction. While they got the world’s number one T20I batsman Dawid Malan, surprisingly, for his base price, they broke the bank for the Australian troika of Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith and Moises Henriques. Additionally, they capped an impressive auction by signing some eye-catching domestic talents in the likes of Jalaj Saxena, Shahrukh Khan, Utkarsh Singh and Saurabh Kumar.</p>

<p>“I think people sort of tend to discuss the actual money spent on a particular player, whether that particular player is actually that valuable. I think in the overall scheme of things like I mentioned, it was a small auction, where the interest on one particular player or two particular players would be, you know, more than two or three franchises wanting that particular player. So, as I mentioned, we wanted to create some sort of options for us to have the firepower and some pace,” Kumble told WION in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And that's why we looked at Riley Meredith. And we believe that somebody of his pace, raw pace, as somebody who can ball that consistently more than 145 kilometres per hour, we felt that that's something that we wanted as an option.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Kumble" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f0b413d7-0572-4b8c-8d18-a69e6666b9d7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kumble-2_2.JPG" /></p>

<p>“Yes, you know, when you look at the money spent, you sort of think, ‘Oh, no, he hasn't played for Australia’ (at that point in time). Why are they spending so much as I mentioned in a small auction, it's very difficult to gauge the actual value that goes into picking a player, Jhye Richardson, we felt that, he could obviously support Mohammed Shami, our lead bowler, and if you can get someone bowling in difficult periods, like the powerplay, middle overs, and he's useful with the bat as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“See, sometimes you sort of pick players from the auction looking at this year. But you may also want to keep your mind for the following year, as well. We don't know what the rules are going to be. I think it's important to keep that kind of a vision for the future as well. So we felt Jhye, with his ability to swing the ball at pace, will be able to pick up wickets in the powerplay and of course at the dead, so those two will certainly add a lot of value to the already, you know, good base attack that we have and the experience of Shami and Chris Jordan, along with all the Indian youngsters who have done exceptionally well in domestic cricket,” he added.</p>

<p>“Last year, Arshdeep was really good for us. Ishan Porel and Darshan Nalkande have been really good at the domestic level. So we believe that we have a good bowling unit that we can sort of rotate and make sure that there are no skills we lack you know.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Jitthe machaaenge sadde Kings dhoom, ae hain unha da 😍 team room 💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/FPYn9U2Pcu">pic.twitter.com/FPYn9U2Pcu</a></p>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1378304846487490562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The new additions to the squad bring a fresh selection headache for Kumble and Co. in the IPL 2021 auction. With different venues to play the tournament in India, Punjab Kings would be looking to utilize their bench strength and maximize the skills of the players.</p>

<p>“Yeah, it is. It's a good thing to have (selection headache), as I said, Digvijay, it's all about having your options, not necessary that all of them will play all the matches. You know, it's very difficult to have that.</p>

<p>“What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of give support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble said.</p>

<p>“So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner. Plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of you know them really free KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan. I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squat to choose from,” the former India captain and also the head of ICC’s Cricket Committee concluded.</p>

<p>Punjab Kings start their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>


Punjab Kings have been eyeing the coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy for long and with an eye to end the title jinx, the rebranded outfit would be heading into the 14th edition of the tournament after strengthening the squad at the auction table.

Punjab Kings have been eyeing the coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy for long and with an eye to end the title jinx, the rebranded outfit would be heading into the 14th edition of the tournament after strengthening the squad at the auction table. With new additions in the team with the likes of Dawid Malan, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Shahrukh Khan among others, Punjab Kings are looking at a selection headache for the upcoming edition of the lucrative T20 tournament. Anil Kumble, the Director of Cricket Operations at Punjab Kings, in an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, talked about the selection headache for the KL Rahul-led outfit while also sharing the plans for the auction. × Punjab Kings signed a few big-name players in the world of T20 cricket during the 2021 auction. While they got the world’s number one T20I batsman Dawid Malan, surprisingly, for his base price, they broke the bank for the Australian troika of Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith and Moises Henriques. Additionally, they capped an impressive auction by signing some eye-catching domestic talents in the likes of Jalaj Saxena, Shahrukh Khan, Utkarsh Singh and Saurabh Kumar. “I think people sort of tend to discuss the actual money spent on a particular player, whether that particular player is actually that valuable. I think in the overall scheme of things like I mentioned, it was a small auction, where the interest on one particular player or two particular players would be, you know, more than two or three franchises wanting that particular player. So, as I mentioned, we wanted to create some sort of options for us to have the firepower and some pace,” Kumble told WION in an exclusive interview. “And that's why we looked at Riley Meredith. And we believe that somebody of his pace, raw pace, as somebody who can ball that consistently more than 145 kilometres per hour, we felt that that's something that we wanted as an option. “Yes, you know, when you look at the money spent, you sort of think, ‘Oh, no, he hasn't played for Australia’ (at that point in time). Why are they spending so much as I mentioned in a small auction, it's very difficult to gauge the actual value that goes into picking a player, Jhye Richardson, we felt that, he could obviously support Mohammed Shami, our lead bowler, and if you can get someone bowling in difficult periods, like the powerplay, middle overs, and he's useful with the bat as well. “See, sometimes you sort of pick players from the auction looking at this year. But you may also want to keep your mind for the following year, as well. We don't know what the rules are going to be. I think it's important to keep that kind of a vision for the future as well. So we felt Jhye, with his ability to swing the ball at pace, will be able to pick up wickets in the powerplay and of course at the dead, so those two will certainly add a lot of value to the already, you know, good base attack that we have and the experience of Shami and Chris Jordan, along with all the Indian youngsters who have done exceptionally well in domestic cricket,” he added. “Last year, Arshdeep was really good for us. Ishan Porel and Darshan Nalkande have been really good at the domestic level. So we believe that we have a good bowling unit that we can sort of rotate and make sure that there are no skills we lack you know.” Jitthe machaaenge sadde Kings dhoom, ae hain unha da 😍 team room 💥#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/FPYn9U2Pcu — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 3, 2021 × The new additions to the squad bring a fresh selection headache for Kumble and Co. in the IPL 2021 auction. With different venues to play the tournament in India, Punjab Kings would be looking to utilize their bench strength and maximize the skills of the players. “Yeah, it is. It's a good thing to have (selection headache), as I said, Digvijay, it's all about having your options, not necessary that all of them will play all the matches. You know, it's very difficult to have that. “What we needed was some experience in the all-round department, somebody who's played here before somebody who's been a part of winning teams. I mean, Moises brings that experience to the squad. Fabian, again is an exciting young all-rounder from West Indies, we all know, the power-hitting that they bring to the table and in this format, he's done exceptionally well is he's a young all-rounder. So it's nice to have him based on conditions obviously, you know, he's a very good left-hand spinner and then really hits the ball hard. And Dawid Malan brings experience and somebody who can sort of give support to the Indian batters that we have,” Kumble said. “So we wanted a steady, someone who you can depend on. And then the firepower of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran and Fabian Allen as a foreigner. Plus Moises and Dawid Malan sort of give you the comfort of you know them really free KL Rahul more so I think that's the kind of options that we wanted we're really glad that we got those. We also wanted a young Indian power-hitting batsman like a Shahrukh Khan. I'm really excited as he really hits the ball hard and it's good to have him as well in the squad. Like I mentioned it's all about having all bases covered and I think we have a pretty strong you know squat to choose from,” the former India captain and also the head of ICC’s Cricket Committee concluded. Punjab Kings start their IPL 2021 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings

<p>The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has said triggered a controversy by saying England, Australia and West Indies players “give up” on mental health while adding Indian players are better at handling it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former Indian captain’s comments created a social media storm as he said that Indians are more tolerant than overseas players while citing Australia’s refusal to tour South Africa. Many players have highlighted the importance of mental well-being including Indian captain Virat Kohli, who said players were “cooked” in bio-secure bubbles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli said last month that players were being "cooked" in bio-secure bubbles while England's policy of rotating and resting tour squad members has been criticised by pundits but defended by players.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-to-wion-selection-headache-a-good-thing-for-punjab-kings-375722" hreflang="en">Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings</a></strong></p>

<p>Ganguly’s comments come just before the start of the Indian Premier League which will see players spending eight weeks in a bio-secure environment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I feel we Indians are a bit more tolerant than overseas (cricketers)", Ganguly told a promotional event late Tuesday, while acknowledging the pressures all players endure.</p>

<p>"I've played with a lot of Englishmen, Australians, West Indians, they just give up on mental health," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last six to seven months, with so much cricket going on in the bio-bubble, it's so tough.</p>

<p>"Just going from the hotel room to the ground... it's an absolutely different life."</p>

<p>While talking about the postponement of Australia’s tour of South Africa in March, Ganguly said that while there is a COVID-19 scare, people have to train themselves mentally to overcome the challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Look at the Australian team, they were supposed to go to South Africa for a Test series after India played there. They refused to go there."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-2-key-foreign-players-to-miss-delhi-capitals-opening-match-vs-chennai-super-kings-375665" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings</a></strong></p>

<p>He added: "And always there's this scare of COVID. 'Hope it's not me the next time'. You have to stay positive, you have to train yourself mentally. All of us have to train ourselves mentally so that only good will happen. It boils down to training."&nbsp;</p>

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<h2>Here's how netizens reacted to Sourav Ganguly's comments on mental health:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sourav Ganguly needs to be spoken to for his comment on mental health. Has he not read about the suicides? It’s irresponsible coming from a board that needs to lead by example, especially when cricketers are now constantly battling mental fatigue in between several bio bubbles.</p>
— Arjun (@ArjunNamboo) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArjunNamboo/status/1379695025525649410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> - please read before you make any more comments anywhere about mental health. <a href="https://t.co/xrA1LKDmFk">https://t.co/xrA1LKDmFk</a></p>
— Srinivas R (@srini_r_twit) <a href="https://twitter.com/srini_r_twit/status/1379605723940724742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 Long thread 🚨<br />
<br />
Recently in an interaction, Ganguly Sir talked a bit about Mental Health and bio bubbles. While we are aware of what he said, here is a thread of thoughts on the impact of what he said according to my understanding.</p>
— Urvi Shah (@unikurvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/unikurvi/status/1379481814226542595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pretty poor from Sourav Ganguly, pretty much the epitome of a countryman from a very divided nation though that he can take such an abject view of mental health. "Tolerance" plays no part and I would remind him several Indian players were reprimanded on the Aus tour for bubble</p>
— Thomas Roper (@tomroper87) <a href="https://twitter.com/tomroper87/status/1379507422436466690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Quite a comment from Sourav Ganguly: “I feel we Indians are a bit more tolerant than overseas (cricketers). I’ve played with a lot of Englishmen, Australians, West Indians. They just give up on mental health.”</p>
— Lawrence Booth (@the_topspin) <a href="https://twitter.com/the_topspin/status/1379502149852336128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The IPL, to be held in six cities without spectators, will take place against the backdrop of a new surge in cases in India from April 9.</p>


The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has said triggered a controversy by saying England, Australia and West Indies players “give up” on mental health while adding Indian players are better at handling it.

The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Sourav Ganguly has said triggered a controversy by saying England, Australia and West Indies players “give up” on mental health while adding Indian players are better at handling it. The former Indian captain’s comments created a social media storm as he said that Indians are more tolerant than overseas players while citing Australia’s refusal to tour South Africa. Many players have highlighted the importance of mental well-being including Indian captain Virat Kohli, who said players were “cooked” in bio-secure bubbles. Kohli said last month that players were being "cooked" in bio-secure bubbles while England's policy of rotating and resting tour squad members has been criticised by pundits but defended by players. ALSO READ: Anil Kumble to WION: Selection headache a good thing for Punjab Kings Ganguly’s comments come just before the start of the Indian Premier League which will see players spending eight weeks in a bio-secure environment. "I feel we Indians are a bit more tolerant than overseas (cricketers)", Ganguly told a promotional event late Tuesday, while acknowledging the pressures all players endure. "I've played with a lot of Englishmen, Australians, West Indians, they just give up on mental health," he added. "In the last six to seven months, with so much cricket going on in the bio-bubble, it's so tough. "Just going from the hotel room to the ground... it's an absolutely different life." While talking about the postponement of Australia’s tour of South Africa in March, Ganguly said that while there is a COVID-19 scare, people have to train themselves mentally to overcome the challenges. "Look at the Australian team, they were supposed to go to South Africa for a Test series after India played there. They refused to go there." ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings He added: "And always there's this scare of COVID. 'Hope it's not me the next time'. You have to stay positive, you have to train yourself mentally. All of us have to train ourselves mentally so that only good will happen. It boils down to training." × Here's how netizens reacted to Sourav Ganguly's comments on mental health: Sourav Ganguly needs to be spoken to for his comment on mental health. Has he not read about the suicides? It’s irresponsible coming from a board that needs to lead by example, especially when cricketers are now constantly battling mental fatigue in between several bio bubbles. — Arjun (@ArjunNamboo) April 7, 2021 × @SGanguly99 - please read before you make any more comments anywhere about mental health. https://t.co/xrA1LKDmFk — Srinivas R (@srini_r_twit) April 7, 2021 × 🚨 Long thread 🚨 Recently in an interaction, Ganguly Sir talked a bit about Mental Health and bio bubbles. While we are aware of what he said, here is a thread of thoughts on the impact of what he said according to my understanding. — Urvi Shah (@unikurvi) April 6, 2021 × Pretty poor from Sourav Ganguly, pretty much the epitome of a countryman from a very divided nation though that he can take such an abject view of mental health. "Tolerance" plays no part and I would remind him several Indian players were reprimanded on the Aus tour for bubble — Thomas Roper (@tomroper87) April 6, 2021 × Quite a comment from Sourav Ganguly: “I feel we Indians are a bit more tolerant than overseas (cricketers). I’ve played with a lot of Englishmen, Australians, West Indians. They just give up on mental health.” — Lawrence Booth (@the_topspin) April 6, 2021 × The IPL, to be held in six cities without spectators, will take place against the backdrop of a new surge in cases in India from April 9.

Overseas players 'give up on mental health,' Sourav Ganguly says Indians more tolerant in bubble life

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting was left surprised by how DC snapped up Steve Smith on the cheap for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Ponting hinted that Smith is not a definite starter in the DC playing XI, he said that the Australian batsman will have added motivation given he was released by Rajasthan Royals and mega-auction is approaching next season. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ponting revealed that Smith’s name wasn’t discussed during the auction strategy as they thought the Aussie would be too expensive for them. However, IPL 2021 auction left the former Aussie skipper surprised. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I'm not really sure how we got him so cheap," Ponting told cricket.com.au this week ahead of the 2021 tournament, which starts on Friday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"It was quite clear that a lot of other teams had more money than us going into the auction. A lot of other teams released more players, so they got a lot of their salary cap back.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"So going into the auction, we hadn't really spoken a lot about Smithy. His name did come up in some of the strategy stuff, but … we just thought 'we're getting outbid', simple as that. So we hadn't put that much time into it.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I was on the phone at home actually watching the auction live and talking to our owners as it was all happening. And that one bid came from us, and it was one bid and bang! Sold to Delhi Capitals.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"It was actually quite remarkable how it turned out because that sort of class doesn't come around all the time and that sort of experience doesn't come around all the time."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While Smith will bring extensive experience along with him, he sees himself in a battle to start for DC in IPL 2021. With only four overseas players allowed, the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Marcus Stonis have done enough to find their names on the team sheet. Smith will have to battle the likes of Shimron Hetmyer, Sam Billings, Chris Woakes and Tom Curran for the fourth overseas squad in the playing XI.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I think the fact that he's been released from the franchise that he's been at for a long time will make him a bit hungry as well this year," he said.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"So, if he gets an opportunity with us – I think it will be in the top three somewhere – if he gets an opportunity, I'm sure he'll have a great year for us.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I caught up with him (recently), he's very, very keen to go out there and perform well.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Obviously the other side of that is there's a big auction again next year, so if he happens to have a really good IPL this year, then I'm sure that that price is going to go up for the coming season.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"(It's) great to have him as a part of our squad. As I said – even if he doesn't play, for instance, to have someone like that around with his sort of knowledge on the game and the T20 game, will be great for our group. I can't wait to work with him again.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"When you get a chance to play in a competition like that, which is as strong as it is, it can't hurt you, that's for sure. You can take so much from it because you're playing against the best players in the world for eight weeks in a row."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">DC will start their IPL 2021 campaign against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.<o:p></o:p></p>


Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting was left surprised by how DC snapped up Steve Smith on the cheap for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Ponting hinted that Smith is not a definite starter in the DC playing XI, he said that the Australian batsman will have added motivation given he was released by Rajasthan Royals and mega-auction is approaching next season.

Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting was left surprised by how DC snapped up Steve Smith on the cheap for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Ponting hinted that Smith is not a definite starter in the DC playing XI, he said that the Australian batsman will have added motivation given he was released by Rajasthan Royals and mega-auction is approaching next season. Ponting revealed that Smith’s name wasn’t discussed during the auction strategy as they thought the Aussie would be too expensive for them. However, IPL 2021 auction left the former Aussie skipper surprised. "I'm not really sure how we got him so cheap," Ponting told cricket.com.au this week ahead of the 2021 tournament, which starts on Friday. "It was quite clear that a lot of other teams had more money than us going into the auction. A lot of other teams released more players, so they got a lot of their salary cap back. "So going into the auction, we hadn't really spoken a lot about Smithy. His name did come up in some of the strategy stuff, but … we just thought 'we're getting outbid', simple as that. So we hadn't put that much time into it. "I was on the phone at home actually watching the auction live and talking to our owners as it was all happening. And that one bid came from us, and it was one bid and bang! Sold to Delhi Capitals. "It was actually quite remarkable how it turned out because that sort of class doesn't come around all the time and that sort of experience doesn't come around all the time." While Smith will bring extensive experience along with him, he sees himself in a battle to start for DC in IPL 2021. With only four overseas players allowed, the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Marcus Stonis have done enough to find their names on the team sheet. Smith will have to battle the likes of Shimron Hetmyer, Sam Billings, Chris Woakes and Tom Curran for the fourth overseas squad in the playing XI. "I think the fact that he's been released from the franchise that he's been at for a long time will make him a bit hungry as well this year," he said. "So, if he gets an opportunity with us – I think it will be in the top three somewhere – if he gets an opportunity, I'm sure he'll have a great year for us. "I caught up with him (recently), he's very, very keen to go out there and perform well. "Obviously the other side of that is there's a big auction again next year, so if he happens to have a really good IPL this year, then I'm sure that that price is going to go up for the coming season. "(It's) great to have him as a part of our squad. As I said – even if he doesn't play, for instance, to have someone like that around with his sort of knowledge on the game and the T20 game, will be great for our group. I can't wait to work with him again. "When you get a chance to play in a competition like that, which is as strong as it is, it can't hurt you, that's for sure. You can take so much from it because you're playing against the best players in the world for eight weeks in a row." DC will start their IPL 2021 campaign against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.

Getting released by RR will make Steve Smith hungry for IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals' Ricky Ponting

<p>Mumbai Indians scout and wicket-keeping consultant Kiran More on Tuesday tested positive for COVID-19. According to a statement by Mumbai Indians, the former India wicket-keeper is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated.</p>

<p>The franchise has followed all the health guidelines by the BCCI and the MI medical team will continue to monitor More's health.</p>

<p>"Mumbai Indians’ scout and wicket keeping consultant Mr. Kiran More has tested positive for Covid-19," Mumbai Indians said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/residents-near-wankhede-stadium-appeal-maharashtra-cm-to-shift-ipl-2021-venue-375675" hreflang="en">Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue</a></strong></p>

<p>"Mr. More is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated. Mumbai Indians and Kiran More have followed all the BCCI health guidelines. The MI medical team will continue to monitor Mr. More’s health and abide by the BCCI protocols. (2/3)</p>

<p>"We would like to remind our fans to be safe and follow COVID-19 appropriate behaviours in these difficult times," the five-time IPL winning franchise added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-2-key-foreign-players-to-miss-delhi-capitals-opening-match-vs-chennai-super-kings-375665" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman Devdutt Padikkal and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batsman Nitish Rana had tested positive but their reports have since come negative. Even some of the groundstaff at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai have also tested positive.</p>

<p>Mumbai Indians are currently based in Chennai for their IPL 2021 matches.</p>


Mumbai Indians scout and wicket-keeping consultant Kiran More on Tuesday tested positive for COVID-19. According to a statement by Mumbai Indians, the former India wicket-keeper is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated.

Mumbai Indians scout and wicket-keeping consultant Kiran More on Tuesday tested positive for COVID-19. According to a statement by Mumbai Indians, the former India wicket-keeper is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated. The franchise has followed all the health guidelines by the BCCI and the MI medical team will continue to monitor More's health. "Mumbai Indians’ scout and wicket keeping consultant Mr. Kiran More has tested positive for Covid-19," Mumbai Indians said in a statement. ALSO READ: Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue "Mr. More is currently asymptomatic and has been isolated. Mumbai Indians and Kiran More have followed all the BCCI health guidelines. The MI medical team will continue to monitor Mr. More’s health and abide by the BCCI protocols. (2/3) "We would like to remind our fans to be safe and follow COVID-19 appropriate behaviours in these difficult times," the five-time IPL winning franchise added. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings Earlier, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman Devdutt Padikkal and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batsman Nitish Rana had tested positive but their reports have since come negative. Even some of the groundstaff at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai have also tested positive. Mumbai Indians are currently based in Chennai for their IPL 2021 matches.

IPL 2021: Mumbai Indians' Kiran More tests positive for COVID-19

<p>With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a letter to CM Thackerey, a local resident from D Road – just across the Wankhede Stadium – have urged the authorities to shift IPL 2021 matches from the iconic venue as it is located in a residential area.</p>

<p>On Monday, a large number of people were seen standing outside a team hotel near Nariman Point in a bid to catch a glimpse of their favourite cricketers. And the local residents are fearing that incidents like this could help the dreaded virus to spread.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-2-key-foreign-players-to-miss-delhi-capitals-opening-match-vs-chennai-super-kings-375665" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai isn’t hosting any IPL 2021 matches with the iconic Wankhede Stadium being the host of all 10 games in the city.</p>

<p>Ashit Shroff, a resident of D-Road across Wankhede Stadium, who is also a member of the Marine Drive Residents' Association, has raised concern on behalf of all the residents regarding their health amid the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>The resident, in his letter which has been duly received by the Maharashtra government on e-mail, said that loud noises and strong lighting affect the senior citizens living in the area while also saying that matches are bound to create parking issues for the D-Road residents. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "On one hand, the city is deeply affected by COVID-19, and the state government is compelled to restrict religious and social activities like marriages, deaths, etc and contrary to this in these difficult times an IPL Cricket match of such a magnitude lasting over several days is permitted."</p>

<p>"We urge change in the location of IPL match to DY Patil stadium or any other venue which is in a non-residential area," he appealed.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-2021-fascinating-stats-from-tournament-history-375646" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history</a></strong></p>

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<p>In the letter, the residents have raised the concern of fans gathering outside the stadium and hotels to see the cricketers passing in their busses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Sunday issued a guideline for the fresh restrictions amid the surge in COVID-19 cases in the state including night curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the authorities have cleared the deck for IPL franchises to practice post 8pm given all the bio-bubble protocols are followed strictly.</p>

<p>Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.</p>


With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city.

With the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai set to host 10 matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, starting April 9, local residents near Marine Drive have urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to change the venue amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in the state including the capital Mumbai – the worst affected city. In a letter to CM Thackerey, a local resident from D Road – just across the Wankhede Stadium – have urged the authorities to shift IPL 2021 matches from the iconic venue as it is located in a residential area. On Monday, a large number of people were seen standing outside a team hotel near Nariman Point in a bid to catch a glimpse of their favourite cricketers. And the local residents are fearing that incidents like this could help the dreaded virus to spread. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings Notably, DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai isn’t hosting any IPL 2021 matches with the iconic Wankhede Stadium being the host of all 10 games in the city. Ashit Shroff, a resident of D-Road across Wankhede Stadium, who is also a member of the Marine Drive Residents' Association, has raised concern on behalf of all the residents regarding their health amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The resident, in his letter which has been duly received by the Maharashtra government on e-mail, said that loud noises and strong lighting affect the senior citizens living in the area while also saying that matches are bound to create parking issues for the D-Road residents. He added, "On one hand, the city is deeply affected by COVID-19, and the state government is compelled to restrict religious and social activities like marriages, deaths, etc and contrary to this in these difficult times an IPL Cricket match of such a magnitude lasting over several days is permitted." "We urge change in the location of IPL match to DY Patil stadium or any other venue which is in a non-residential area," he appealed. WATCH: IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history @CMOMaharashtra pic.twitter.com/L0i4HxClCk — ASHIT SHROFF (@ashroff17) April 2, 2021 × In the letter, the residents have raised the concern of fans gathering outside the stadium and hotels to see the cricketers passing in their busses. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Sunday issued a guideline for the fresh restrictions amid the surge in COVID-19 cases in the state including night curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative. However, the authorities have cleared the deck for IPL franchises to practice post 8pm given all the bio-bubble protocols are followed strictly. Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.

Residents near Wankhede Stadium appeal Maharashtra CM to shift IPL 2021 venue

<p class="MsoNormal">In what comes as a huge blow to Delhi Capitals, the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje are set to miss DC’s opening fixture of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Rabada and Nortje arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday and will now undergo a week of quarantine before joining the squad for the lucrative T20 tournament. The South African pace duo was retained by Delhi Capitals following a terrific show in IPL 2020 in the UAE, where they ended up as runner’s up.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Delhi Capitals' fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje arrived at the team hotel in Mumbai on Tuesday," the franchise said in a statement.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ipl-2021-fascinating-stats-from-tournament-history-375646" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history</a></strong><o:p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Rabada and Nortje will be in quarantine for one week," it added.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The South African players, who are part of IPL 2021 and participated in the ongoing three-match ODI series against Pakistan, left on Monday to join their respective IPL franchises. As a result, they will miss the final ODI between South Africa and Pakistan. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Earlier, DC appointed youngster Rishabh Pant as the skipper of their side for IPL 2021 after Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/maharashtra-government-clears-deck-for-ipl-allows-franchises-to-practice-after-8pm-at-wankhede-stadium-375542" hreflang="en">Maharashtra government clears deck for IPL, allows franchises to practice after 8pm at Wankhede Stadium</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">DC would be looking to take another step in IPL and bag their maiden IPL trophy as the cricketing world gear up for the mega festival, starting from April 9.<o:p></o:p></p>


In what comes as a huge blow to Delhi Capitals, the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje are set to miss DC’s opening fixture of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10.

In what comes as a huge blow to Delhi Capitals, the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje are set to miss DC’s opening fixture of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 against Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 10. Rabada and Nortje arrived in Mumbai on Tuesday and will now undergo a week of quarantine before joining the squad for the lucrative T20 tournament. The South African pace duo was retained by Delhi Capitals following a terrific show in IPL 2020 in the UAE, where they ended up as runner’s up. "Delhi Capitals' fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje arrived at the team hotel in Mumbai on Tuesday," the franchise said in a statement. Watch: IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history "Rabada and Nortje will be in quarantine for one week," it added. The South African players, who are part of IPL 2021 and participated in the ongoing three-match ODI series against Pakistan, left on Monday to join their respective IPL franchises. As a result, they will miss the final ODI between South Africa and Pakistan. Earlier, DC appointed youngster Rishabh Pant as the skipper of their side for IPL 2021 after Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the tournament due to a shoulder injury. ALSO READ: Maharashtra government clears deck for IPL, allows franchises to practice after 8pm at Wankhede Stadium DC would be looking to take another step in IPL and bag their maiden IPL trophy as the cricketing world gear up for the mega festival, starting from April 9.

IPL 2021: 2 key foreign players to miss Delhi Capitals' opening match vs Chennai Super Kings

Ahead of the Indian Premier League 2021, we take a look at some of the most fascinating stats from tournament history. From the most devastating batsmen to the most economical bowlers and many more in IPL history, the video covers every important stats you need to know before the start of the tournament.

IPL 2021: Fascinating stats from tournament history

<p class="MsoNormal">The Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to take place in the COVID-19-struck Mumbai while allowing teams to practice after 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels during the night curfew that has been imposed to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Due to a record surge of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra, the state government on Sunday announced night curfew&nbsp;from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative. The guidelines are to be implemented from this evening.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, the state government has exempted IPL teams from their latest announcement while allowing them to practice beyond 8 pm, provided there is "strict adherence to bio-bubble". The IPL 2021 starts in Chennai on April 9.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Considering the match-timings, teams practicing at the CCI and MCA are scheduled to practice in 2 sessions -- from 4pm to 6.30pm and 7.30pm to 10pm," wrote Srirang Gholap, Under Secretary of the Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation department, in a letter issued to the BCCI.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-super-league-6-bio-secure-bubble-was-compromised-on-several-occasions-pcb-375525" hreflang="en">Pakistan Super League 6 bio-secure bubble was compromised on several occasions: PCB</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Mumbai recorded more than 11,000 COVID-19 cases on Sunday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"...permission has been requested for teams and the IPL staff (to) be allowed to practice inside the grounds after 8pm and they may be allowed free movement from the ground to their respective hotels after the said time.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-not-batting-today-ricky-ponting-opens-up-on-prithvi-shaws-refusal-to-train-during-ipl-2020-375517" hreflang="en">'I'm not batting today': Ricky Ponting opens up on Prithvi Shaw's refusal to train during IPL 2020</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Accordingly, permission is being hereby accorded for the said request subject to scrupulous adherence to the bio-bubble," stated the letter, according to PTI.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In a related development and a major relief to the Mumbai Cricket Association, it is learnt that most of the Wankhede's 10 ground-staff members, who had earlier tested positive for the virus, have now tested negative.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">(From PTI inputs)<o:p></o:p></p>


The Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to take place in the COVID-19-struck Mumbai while allowing teams to practice after 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels during the night curfew that has been imposed to curb the spread of the dreaded virus.

The Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to take place in the COVID-19-struck Mumbai while allowing teams to practice after 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels during the night curfew that has been imposed to curb the spread of the dreaded virus. Due to a record surge of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra, the state government on Sunday announced night curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays under their ‘Break the Chain’ initiative. The guidelines are to be implemented from this evening. However, the state government has exempted IPL teams from their latest announcement while allowing them to practice beyond 8 pm, provided there is "strict adherence to bio-bubble". The IPL 2021 starts in Chennai on April 9. "Considering the match-timings, teams practicing at the CCI and MCA are scheduled to practice in 2 sessions -- from 4pm to 6.30pm and 7.30pm to 10pm," wrote Srirang Gholap, Under Secretary of the Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation department, in a letter issued to the BCCI. ALSO READ: Pakistan Super League 6 bio-secure bubble was compromised on several occasions: PCB Mumbai is due to host 10 IPL 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium and nine of them are to start at 7:30 pm. The first game at the Wankhede is due on April 10 between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. Mumbai recorded more than 11,000 COVID-19 cases on Sunday. "...permission has been requested for teams and the IPL staff (to) be allowed to practice inside the grounds after 8pm and they may be allowed free movement from the ground to their respective hotels after the said time. ALSO READ: 'I'm not batting today': Ricky Ponting opens up on Prithvi Shaw's refusal to train during IPL 2020 "Accordingly, permission is being hereby accorded for the said request subject to scrupulous adherence to the bio-bubble," stated the letter, according to PTI. In a related development and a major relief to the Mumbai Cricket Association, it is learnt that most of the Wankhede's 10 ground-staff members, who had earlier tested positive for the virus, have now tested negative. (From PTI inputs)

Maharashtra government clears deck for IPL, allows franchises to practice after 8pm at Wankhede Stadium

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India. The IPL 2021 is scheduled to commence on April 9 but with India registering over 1 lakh coronavirus cases, questions were raised whether IPL 2021 would go ahead as per schedule. Ganguly has now cleared the air regarding the doubts.</p>

<p>Ganguly’s comments come after the Maharashtra government announced weekend lockdown to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Everything will go on as per schedule," Ganguly told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maharashtra is set to undergo strict weekend lockdown from Friday 8pm to Monday 7 am, said state Cabinet Minister Nawab Malik adding that essential services and basic transportation such as buses, trains and taxis will be allowed.<br />
Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is to host 10 IPL 2021 matches from April 10-25 with the first match scheduled to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-does-crickets-law-book-say-on-fakhar-zaman-quinton-de-kock-run-out-incident-375466" hreflang="en">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?</a></strong></p>

<p>Four franchises -- Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals have set up their base in Mumbai as of now. Whereas the fifth Mumbai-based franchise Kolkata Knight Riders will move to Chennai after playing their season opener against SunRisers Hyderabad on April 11.</p>

<p>The BCCI is also mulling players’ vaccination ahead of the showpiece T20 tournament. The BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has said that the board will get in touch with the Health Ministry for players' vaccination.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rajeev-shukla-confident-that-tournament-will-go-ahead-without-any-problem-375327" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem'</a></strong></p>

<p>"In order to cope with this coronavirus rise, I think the only solution is to get vaccinated. BCCI is also thinking on those lines that players should be vaccinated. Nobody knows when coronavirus is going to end and you can't give a deadline that by this time frame, it will not be there so players can play easily. So, I think now will have to think over that. Vaccination should be done for the players also," Shukla told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>IPL 2021 is set to start from April 9 with RCB taking on MI in the season opener in Chennai.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Sunday provided an update on the schedule of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in India. The IPL 2021 is scheduled to commence on April 9 but with India registering over 1 lakh coronavirus cases, questions were raised whether IPL 2021 would go ahead as per schedule. Ganguly has now cleared the air regarding the doubts. Ganguly’s comments come after the Maharashtra government announced weekend lockdown to curb the spread of the dreaded COVID-19. "Everything will go on as per schedule," Ganguly told ANI. Maharashtra is set to undergo strict weekend lockdown from Friday 8pm to Monday 7 am, said state Cabinet Minister Nawab Malik adding that essential services and basic transportation such as buses, trains and taxis will be allowed. Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium is to host 10 IPL 2021 matches from April 10-25 with the first match scheduled to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and three-time winners Chennai Super Kings. ALSO READ: What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? Four franchises -- Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals have set up their base in Mumbai as of now. Whereas the fifth Mumbai-based franchise Kolkata Knight Riders will move to Chennai after playing their season opener against SunRisers Hyderabad on April 11. The BCCI is also mulling players’ vaccination ahead of the showpiece T20 tournament. The BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has said that the board will get in touch with the Health Ministry for players' vaccination. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem' "In order to cope with this coronavirus rise, I think the only solution is to get vaccinated. BCCI is also thinking on those lines that players should be vaccinated. Nobody knows when coronavirus is going to end and you can't give a deadline that by this time frame, it will not be there so players can play easily. So, I think now will have to think over that. Vaccination should be done for the players also," Shukla told ANI. IPL 2021 is set to start from April 9 with RCB taking on MI in the season opener in Chennai.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases

<p>Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting on Monday revealed that Prithvi Shaw refused to bat at nets when he was going through a torrid run of form during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE while hoping that the youngster has changed his training approach ahead of IPL 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.</p>

<p>While Shaw averaged just 17.53 in 13 matches during IPL 2020, the youngster has roared back to form during the Indian domestic season in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ponting has said that he tried to help Shaw out with his technical frailties with the bat but added that the youngster didn’t want to bat at nets when he was completely out of form during IPL 2020 as he said he couldn’t really work that theory out.</p>

<p><strong>TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thala-ms-dhoni-unleashes-monstrous-sixes-at-csk-nets-ahead-of-ipl-2021-375510" hreflang="en">Watch: 'Thala' MS Dhoni unleashes monstrous sixes at CSK nets ahead of IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>"I've tried (taking Shaw under his wing) the last two years and I've really enjoyed working with him," Ponting told cricket.com.au before departing for India. "I've had some really interesting chats with him through last year's IPL, just trying to break him down, trying to find out exactly what was the right way to coach him and how I was going to get the best out of him.</p>

<p>"But he had an interesting theory on his batting last year – when he's not scoring runs, he won't bat, and when he is scoring runs, he wants to keep batting all the time.</p>

<p>"He had four or five games where he made under 10 and I'm telling him, 'We have to go to the nets and work out (what's wrong)', and he looked me in the eye and said, 'No, I'm not batting today'.</p>

<p>"I couldn't really work that out.</p>

<p>"He might have changed. I know he's done a lot of work over the last few months, that theory that he had might have changed, and hopefully it has, because if we can get the best out of him, he could be a superstar player."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-provides-update-on-ipl-2021-scheduling-amid-spike-in-covid-19-cases-375485" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases</a></strong></p>

<p>With Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer out of IPL 2021 due to shoulder injury, DC would hope that Shaw fires all cylinders with the willow. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shaw hammered a staggering 827 runs including four centuries in eight innings. The change in form came after the Test tour of Australia, where he was dropped after the opening Test. Shaw had admitted that he felt "worthless" and suffered the "saddest day of my life" when he got the news of losing his spot.</p>

<p>"I was going pretty hard at him," said the former Australia captain. "I was basically telling him, 'Mate you've got to get in the nets. Whatever you think you're working on, is not working for you'."</p>

<p>"It's my job as a coach to challenge someone's preparation if they're not getting results. So I challenged him and he stuck to his word and he didn't practice much at all towards the back-end of the tournament, and didn't get many runs towards the back-end of the tournament either."</p>

<p>Shaw’s batting technique was scrutinized by many including the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Ponting, who believes Shaw has the ability to become a superstar. Ponting further said that he hasn’t seen many more talented players than Shaw in his entire career.</p>

<p>"Maybe (his training habits) have changed for the better, because (his success) won't just be for the Delhi Capitals, I'm sure you'll see him play a lot of cricket for India as well in the coming years," said Ponting.</p>

<p>"He's diminutive … in the (Sachin) Tendulkar sort of mould but hits the ball incredibly powerfully off front and back foot, and plays spin really well.</p>

<p>"If we can get him to take that form that he's just shown into the IPL, it just makes the balance on our Delhi Capital side so good.</p>

<p>"If (the penny) does drop – I'm not sure I've seen many more talented players than him in my whole time of playing the game."</p>


Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting on Monday revealed that Prithvi Shaw refused to bat at nets when he was going through a torrid run of form during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE while hoping that the youngster has changed his training approach ahead of IPL 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.

Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting on Monday revealed that Prithvi Shaw refused to bat at nets when he was going through a torrid run of form during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE while hoping that the youngster has changed his training approach ahead of IPL 2021, scheduled to start from April 9. While Shaw averaged just 17.53 in 13 matches during IPL 2020, the youngster has roared back to form during the Indian domestic season in 2021. Ponting has said that he tried to help Shaw out with his technical frailties with the bat but added that the youngster didn’t want to bat at nets when he was completely out of form during IPL 2020 as he said he couldn’t really work that theory out. TRENDING: Watch: 'Thala' MS Dhoni unleashes monstrous sixes at CSK nets ahead of IPL 2021 "I've tried (taking Shaw under his wing) the last two years and I've really enjoyed working with him," Ponting told cricket.com.au before departing for India. "I've had some really interesting chats with him through last year's IPL, just trying to break him down, trying to find out exactly what was the right way to coach him and how I was going to get the best out of him. "But he had an interesting theory on his batting last year – when he's not scoring runs, he won't bat, and when he is scoring runs, he wants to keep batting all the time. "He had four or five games where he made under 10 and I'm telling him, 'We have to go to the nets and work out (what's wrong)', and he looked me in the eye and said, 'No, I'm not batting today'. "I couldn't really work that out. "He might have changed. I know he's done a lot of work over the last few months, that theory that he had might have changed, and hopefully it has, because if we can get the best out of him, he could be a superstar player." ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases With Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer out of IPL 2021 due to shoulder injury, DC would hope that Shaw fires all cylinders with the willow. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shaw hammered a staggering 827 runs including four centuries in eight innings. The change in form came after the Test tour of Australia, where he was dropped after the opening Test. Shaw had admitted that he felt "worthless" and suffered the "saddest day of my life" when he got the news of losing his spot. "I was going pretty hard at him," said the former Australia captain. "I was basically telling him, 'Mate you've got to get in the nets. Whatever you think you're working on, is not working for you'." "It's my job as a coach to challenge someone's preparation if they're not getting results. So I challenged him and he stuck to his word and he didn't practice much at all towards the back-end of the tournament, and didn't get many runs towards the back-end of the tournament either." Shaw’s batting technique was scrutinized by many including the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Ponting, who believes Shaw has the ability to become a superstar. Ponting further said that he hasn’t seen many more talented players than Shaw in his entire career. "Maybe (his training habits) have changed for the better, because (his success) won't just be for the Delhi Capitals, I'm sure you'll see him play a lot of cricket for India as well in the coming years," said Ponting. "He's diminutive … in the (Sachin) Tendulkar sort of mould but hits the ball incredibly powerfully off front and back foot, and plays spin really well. "If we can get him to take that form that he's just shown into the IPL, it just makes the balance on our Delhi Capital side so good. "If (the penny) does drop – I'm not sure I've seen many more talented players than him in my whole time of playing the game."

'I'm not batting today': Ricky Ponting opens up on Prithvi Shaw's refusal to train during IPL 2020

<p class="MsoNormal">Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021. On Monday, CSK shared a video of Dhoni where the veteran is seen smashing sixes at will. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">CSK on Monday shared a video on Instagram where Dhoni was seen hammering sixes all around the park. CSK captioned the video: “Thala Paraak fully loaded! #WhistlePodu #Yellove” <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In the video, there was a compilation of Dhoni’s huge sixes with the CSK captain stealing the thunders by appearing in the second half.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-provides-update-on-ipl-2021-scheduling-amid-spike-in-covid-19-cases-375485" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases</a></strong></p>

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<p>After a disastrous outing in IPL 2020 in the UAE, Dhoni and co would be itching to put the record straight by once again fighting for the playoffs spot. Even Dhoni had a tough IPL 2020 where he managed just 200 runs in 14 matches. CSK failed to make the playoffs in IPL 2020 – the first time in their history – as they finished second last in the standings with 12 points in 14 matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-does-crickets-law-book-say-on-fakhar-zaman-quinton-de-kock-run-out-incident-375466" hreflang="en">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ahead of IPL 2021, CSK made changes to their squad and signed up all-rounders Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham while also roping in experienced campaigners such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Robin Uthappa.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;CSK will also witness the return of Suresh Raina – who missed the 13<sup>th</sup> edition of IPL due to personal reasons.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">CSK commence their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10 in Mumbai.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></p>


Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021.

Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021. On Monday, CSK shared a video of Dhoni where the veteran is seen smashing sixes at will. CSK on Monday shared a video on Instagram where Dhoni was seen hammering sixes all around the park. CSK captioned the video: “Thala Paraak fully loaded! #WhistlePodu #Yellove” In the video, there was a compilation of Dhoni’s huge sixes with the CSK captain stealing the thunders by appearing in the second half. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chennai Super Kings (@chennaiipl) × After a disastrous outing in IPL 2020 in the UAE, Dhoni and co would be itching to put the record straight by once again fighting for the playoffs spot. Even Dhoni had a tough IPL 2020 where he managed just 200 runs in 14 matches. CSK failed to make the playoffs in IPL 2020 – the first time in their history – as they finished second last in the standings with 12 points in 14 matches. ALSO READ: What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? Ahead of IPL 2021, CSK made changes to their squad and signed up all-rounders Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham while also roping in experienced campaigners such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Robin Uthappa. CSK will also witness the return of Suresh Raina – who missed the 13th edition of IPL due to personal reasons. CSK commence their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10 in Mumbai.

Watch: 'Thala' MS Dhoni unleashes monstrous sixes at CSK nets ahead of IPL 2021

<p>Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has given his take on who should open alongside Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli in the upcoming Indian Premier League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hogg was impressed by Devdutt Padikkal's performance last season and believes that he should open with Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They will have Padikkal open the batting. I think he did a fantastic job last year and is another Indian talent coming through. Opening the batting with him will be Virat Kohli. I think that is his prime position. He will be able to time the ball, pierce the gaps during the powerplay. His role will be to bat through the whole innings,” Brad Hogg stated in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>Brad Hogg believes RCB have a strong top six this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You have got AB de Villiers coming in at no. 3 and then Glenn Maxwell to finish off the innings at no. 4. I will have Dan Christian coming in at no. 5, another power-hitter, and Mohammed Azharuddeen. I think that particular six would be dominant in this year's IPL," Brad Hogg said.</p>

<p>Brad Hogg's predicted XI for RCB: Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli (c), AB de Villiers (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Christian, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Kane Richardson, and Yuzvendra Chahal.</p>


Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has given his take on who should open alongside Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli in the upcoming Indian Premier League.

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has given his take on who should open alongside Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli in the upcoming Indian Premier League. Hogg was impressed by Devdutt Padikkal's performance last season and believes that he should open with Kohli. “They will have Padikkal open the batting. I think he did a fantastic job last year and is another Indian talent coming through. Opening the batting with him will be Virat Kohli. I think that is his prime position. He will be able to time the ball, pierce the gaps during the powerplay. His role will be to bat through the whole innings,” Brad Hogg stated in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. Brad Hogg believes RCB have a strong top six this season. "You have got AB de Villiers coming in at no. 3 and then Glenn Maxwell to finish off the innings at no. 4. I will have Dan Christian coming in at no. 5, another power-hitter, and Mohammed Azharuddeen. I think that particular six would be dominant in this year's IPL," Brad Hogg said. Brad Hogg's predicted XI for RCB: Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli (c), AB de Villiers (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Christian, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini, Kane Richardson, and Yuzvendra Chahal.

IPL 2021- Brad Hogg feels this batsman should open alongside Virat Kohli

<p>Despite a rise in coronavirus cases, the vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Rajeev Shukla is confident that the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will go ahead "without any problem".</p>

<p>"That`s the concern that coronavirus cases are rising. That`s why BCCI has already taken all the precautions. That`s why only six venues have been kept and bio-bubble has been created. The number of members of the squad has also been increased, keeping in mind that in the future if the coronavirus case rises then all the precautions can be taken," Shukla told ANI.</p>

<p>"So, keeping in mind all the precautions, the tournament will go on without any problem. Bio-bubble has been created, those who are in bio-bubble, they are getting tested now and then and I think the tournament will take place without spectators," he added.</p>

<p>Maharashtra is witnessing a rise in coronavirus cases but Shukla said that so far, no decision has been taken regarding the shifting of Mumbai matches to some other venues for the upcoming IPL, set to begin on April 9.</p>

<p>"So far, no decision has been taken to shift Mumbai venue. It will take place in Mumbai because all the arrangements have been done. In the future, as you know there are standby venues also if there is any problem then we will think but currently, there is no such decision which has been taken. The first stand-by stadium is in Lucknow then Hyderabad and Indore are there and some others also. Nothing has been decided and it will take place as per the earlier decision," he said.</p>

<p>Wankhede is set to host 10 IPL games this season from April 10-25. The first match at the Mumbai stadium is slated to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings.</p>

<p>Four franchises -- Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals -- have set up their base in Mumbai as of now.</p>

<p>Moreover, the Delhi-based franchise suffered a huge blow on Saturday as all-rounder Axar Patel tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>


Despite a rise in coronavirus cases, the vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Rajeev Shukla is confident that the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will go ahead "without any problem".

Despite a rise in coronavirus cases, the vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Rajeev Shukla is confident that the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will go ahead "without any problem". "That`s the concern that coronavirus cases are rising. That`s why BCCI has already taken all the precautions. That`s why only six venues have been kept and bio-bubble has been created. The number of members of the squad has also been increased, keeping in mind that in the future if the coronavirus case rises then all the precautions can be taken," Shukla told ANI. "So, keeping in mind all the precautions, the tournament will go on without any problem. Bio-bubble has been created, those who are in bio-bubble, they are getting tested now and then and I think the tournament will take place without spectators," he added. Maharashtra is witnessing a rise in coronavirus cases but Shukla said that so far, no decision has been taken regarding the shifting of Mumbai matches to some other venues for the upcoming IPL, set to begin on April 9. "So far, no decision has been taken to shift Mumbai venue. It will take place in Mumbai because all the arrangements have been done. In the future, as you know there are standby venues also if there is any problem then we will think but currently, there is no such decision which has been taken. The first stand-by stadium is in Lucknow then Hyderabad and Indore are there and some others also. Nothing has been decided and it will take place as per the earlier decision," he said. Wankhede is set to host 10 IPL games this season from April 10-25. The first match at the Mumbai stadium is slated to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. Four franchises -- Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals -- have set up their base in Mumbai as of now. Moreover, the Delhi-based franchise suffered a huge blow on Saturday as all-rounder Axar Patel tested positive for COVID-19.

IPL 2021: Rajeev Shukla confident that tournament will go ahead 'without any problem'

<p>Chennai Super Kings' batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is excited to leave a mark in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, however, he felt bad that his national teammate Hanuma Vihari went unsold for the cash-rich T20 league.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mike-hussey-hopeful-about-chennai-super-kings-excellent-additions-375271" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Mike Hussey hopeful about Chennai Super King's 'excellent additions'</a></p>

<p>In 2019, Hanuma Vihari played for SunRisers Hyderabad but has gone unsold ever since.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Last few years, I’m the only one who has been missing out [on playing in the IPL] from the Indian team. The only guy missing out at this stage is Hanuma Vihari. I feel for him. He was previously part of the IPL. I feel that he should also be part of the IPL,” Pujara said in an interaction with ESPNCricinfo.</p>

<p>Pujara talked about getting another chance in the IPL and said that he was pleased with the development as his contribution for Team India is getting noticed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m really pleased that what I’ve done for the Indian team is noticed and I got results for that. I was told when I was picked, all the franchises clapped [in the auction room]. I feel that when you are doing something for the Indian team, people love it. They know the value I bring in. Not just the franchises, almost all my [India] team-mates were really happy for me,” the batsman added.</p>

<p>According to the 33-year-old, white-ball cricket is easier than red-ball cricket as Test has way lot more pressure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I definitely think so (on whether it is easier for someone who can tackle red-ball cricket to perform in white-ball cricket), especially the way the white ball travels.</p>

<p>“It is just about making the mental change. I feel that mentally if you are ready to make some adjustments, you don’t need to take a lot of pressure. In Test cricket, there is a lot of pressure; there is a price on your wicket. But in the shorter format, you just need to express yourself and play all the shots you can,” Pujara signed off.&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings' batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is excited to leave a mark in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, however, he felt bad that his national teammate Hanuma Vihari went unsold for the cash-rich T20 league.

Chennai Super Kings' batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is excited to leave a mark in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, however, he felt bad that his national teammate Hanuma Vihari went unsold for the cash-rich T20 league. Also read: IPL 2021- Mike Hussey hopeful about Chennai Super King's 'excellent additions' In 2019, Hanuma Vihari played for SunRisers Hyderabad but has gone unsold ever since. “Last few years, I’m the only one who has been missing out [on playing in the IPL] from the Indian team. The only guy missing out at this stage is Hanuma Vihari. I feel for him. He was previously part of the IPL. I feel that he should also be part of the IPL,” Pujara said in an interaction with ESPNCricinfo. Pujara talked about getting another chance in the IPL and said that he was pleased with the development as his contribution for Team India is getting noticed. “I’m really pleased that what I’ve done for the Indian team is noticed and I got results for that. I was told when I was picked, all the franchises clapped [in the auction room]. I feel that when you are doing something for the Indian team, people love it. They know the value I bring in. Not just the franchises, almost all my [India] team-mates were really happy for me,” the batsman added. According to the 33-year-old, white-ball cricket is easier than red-ball cricket as Test has way lot more pressure. “I definitely think so (on whether it is easier for someone who can tackle red-ball cricket to perform in white-ball cricket), especially the way the white ball travels. “It is just about making the mental change. I feel that mentally if you are ready to make some adjustments, you don’t need to take a lot of pressure. In Test cricket, there is a lot of pressure; there is a price on your wicket. But in the shorter format, you just need to express yourself and play all the shots you can,” Pujara signed off.

'I feel for him': Cheteshwar Pujara on Hanuma Vihari going unsold in IPL

<p>Chennai Super Kings batting coach Mike Hussey feels that the team has some "excellent addition" ahead of the Indian Premier League 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-opener-devdutt-padikkal-tests-positive-for-covid-19-reports-375238" hreflang="en">RCB opener Devdutt Padikkal tests positive for COVID-19: Reports</a></p>

<p>The MS Dhoni-led squad are training at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai where they will play the first five of their 14 matches in the upcoming season of the cash-rich T20 league.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Aussie felt that conditions at Wankhede are good for both the batsmen and the bowlers and said that the Men in Yellow could start a very confident campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“A good start would be nice because the players will then relax and hopefully play their best cricket with confidence, otherwise the pressure can build up on everyone involved,” said Hussey during an interview on CSK's website.</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings under the leadership of MS Dhoni have been the most consistent franchise in the Indian Premier League. The three-time champions have made it to the playoffs in every IPL season until the 2020 season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The franchise has bought six new players this year, including Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham, and Robin Uthappa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I think they are all excellent additions. Moeen is an excellent all-rounder, Robin has a lot of experience and has been a quality performer in the past and Gowtham has some genuine talent that we can look to develop further,” Hussey continued.</p>

<p>“I feel we have a very balanced squad that has most bases covered and with depth in most areas. The guys are in really good spirits and have been and are preparing extremely well,” he concluded.</p>


Chennai Super Kings batting coach Mike Hussey feels that the team has some "excellent addition" ahead of the Indian Premier League 2021. ALSO READ: RCB opener Devdutt Padikkal tests positive for COVID-19: Reports The MS Dhoni-led squad are training at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai where they will play the first five of their 14 matches in the upcoming season of the cash-rich T20 league.

Chennai Super Kings batting coach Mike Hussey feels that the team has some "excellent addition" ahead of the Indian Premier League 2021. ALSO READ: RCB opener Devdutt Padikkal tests positive for COVID-19: Reports The MS Dhoni-led squad are training at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai where they will play the first five of their 14 matches in the upcoming season of the cash-rich T20 league. Former Aussie felt that conditions at Wankhede are good for both the batsmen and the bowlers and said that the Men in Yellow could start a very confident campaign. “A good start would be nice because the players will then relax and hopefully play their best cricket with confidence, otherwise the pressure can build up on everyone involved,” said Hussey during an interview on CSK's website. Chennai Super Kings under the leadership of MS Dhoni have been the most consistent franchise in the Indian Premier League. The three-time champions have made it to the playoffs in every IPL season until the 2020 season. The franchise has bought six new players this year, including Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham, and Robin Uthappa. “I think they are all excellent additions. Moeen is an excellent all-rounder, Robin has a lot of experience and has been a quality performer in the past and Gowtham has some genuine talent that we can look to develop further,” Hussey continued. “I feel we have a very balanced squad that has most bases covered and with depth in most areas. The guys are in really good spirits and have been and are preparing extremely well,” he concluded.

IPL 2021- Mike Hussey hopeful about Chennai Super King's 'excellent additions'

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-batsman-ollie-pope-reveals-skipper-virat-kohlis-warning-during-first-test-374978" hreflang="en">English batsman Ollie Pope reveals skipper Virat Kohli's warning during first Test</a></p>

<p>"Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it's on. V v v simple!," Pietersen tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cricket boards need to realise that the <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> is the biggest show in town.<br />
<br />
DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it’s on.<br />
<br />
V v v simple!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1377961629187457024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>England Cricket Board (ECB) and New Zealand Cricket have publicly said that they will provide a window for their players so that they could experience pressure situations while playing along with big names in the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>14 english cricketers are set to feature in this year's Indian Premier League. The list includes England skipper Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler, Stokes, Johnny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Sam Billings, Liam Livingstone and no.1 T20I batsman Dawid Malan. Jofra Archer is likely to miss half of the season after a serious shoulder injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will kick off on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bangalore. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata &amp; Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each.</p>


Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played. ALSO READ: English batsman Ollie Pope reveals skipper Virat Kohli's warning during first Test "Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it's on. V v v simple!," Pietersen tweeted. Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it’s on. V v v simple! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) April 2, 2021 × England Cricket Board (ECB) and New Zealand Cricket have publicly said that they will provide a window for their players so that they could experience pressure situations while playing along with big names in the game. 14 english cricketers are set to feature in this year's Indian Premier League. The list includes England skipper Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler, Stokes, Johnny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Sam Billings, Liam Livingstone and no.1 T20I batsman Dawid Malan. Jofra Archer is likely to miss half of the season after a serious shoulder injury. The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will kick off on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bangalore. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata & Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each.

'IPL is biggest show in town': Kevin Pietersen urges cricket board not to schedule any international games

<p>Eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for COVID-19. The results came in after tests were conducted ahead of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-excited-that-we-are-playing-in-india-again-rcb-skipper-virat-kohli-374956" hreflang="en">'Very excited that we are playing in India again': RCB skipper Virat Kohli</a></p>

<p>The Wankhede Stadium is set to host 10 matches in the cash-rich T20 league from April 10 to 25.</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals will play the first match at Wankhede on April 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several groundsmen have to travel daily (mostly via trains) to come to the ground. However, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is now planning to house the staff at the ground itself till the matches are over.</p>

<p>According to Sportstar, all the 19 ground staff members at the Wankhede Stadium underwent routine RT-PCR tests over the last week. Three had tested positive during tests conducted on March 26. The remaining five more reports from the tests conducted on April 1 returned positive a day later, taking the overall tally to eight.</p>

<p>The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata are set to host IPL 2021 matches with Chennai hosting the season opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 9. The playoffs and final of IPL 2021 will be played at the world's largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the summit clash scheduled on May 30. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Each franchise will play at four venues during the league stage. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata &amp; Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each. All matches will be played at neutral venues and no team will play at their home venue. All teams will play at 4 out of 6 venues during the league stage.</p>


Eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for COVID-19. The results came in after tests were conducted ahead of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League.

Eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for COVID-19. The results came in after tests were conducted ahead of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: 'Very excited that we are playing in India again': RCB skipper Virat Kohli The Wankhede Stadium is set to host 10 matches in the cash-rich T20 league from April 10 to 25. Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals will play the first match at Wankhede on April 10. Several groundsmen have to travel daily (mostly via trains) to come to the ground. However, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is now planning to house the staff at the ground itself till the matches are over. According to Sportstar, all the 19 ground staff members at the Wankhede Stadium underwent routine RT-PCR tests over the last week. Three had tested positive during tests conducted on March 26. The remaining five more reports from the tests conducted on April 1 returned positive a day later, taking the overall tally to eight. The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata are set to host IPL 2021 matches with Chennai hosting the season opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 9. The playoffs and final of IPL 2021 will be played at the world's largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the summit clash scheduled on May 30. Each franchise will play at four venues during the league stage. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata & Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each. All matches will be played at neutral venues and no team will play at their home venue. All teams will play at 4 out of 6 venues during the league stage.

IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19

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