Australian batsman Steve Smith on Saturday joined his new franchise Delhi Capitals and will go through a seven-day mandatory quarantine ahead of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Former Rajasthan Royals skipper joined the Delhi Capitals after they bought him for 2.2 crore rupees in this year's IPL auctions in February.&nbsp;

The franchise took to Twitter and shared the image of the star batsman and the Gateway of India in one frame and wrote: "2 monumental icons in one frame. Welcome to the DC family, @stevesmith49".&nbsp;

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𝟮 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗲 😌 
 
Welcome to the DC family, <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> 🙌🏽💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TajMahalMumbai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TajMahalMumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/51IfI2OjGI">pic.twitter.com/51IfI2OjGI</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1378250172526817280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Smith and his Australian teammate Marcus Stoinis will hardly get any time to train before their team's first match in the cash-rich T20 league on April 10. The team led by Rishabh Pant will face MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium.&nbsp;

Smith's 2011 World Cup captain Ricky Ponting is the head coach of the team.&nbsp;

However, the franchise has had couple of setbacks before the league kicked off. Their star captain Shreyas Iyer has been injured and is feared will miss the complete season. Their star-allrounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the league.&nbsp;

Australian batsman Steve Smith on Saturday joined his new franchise Delhi Capitals and will go through a seven-day mandatory quarantine ahead of the Indian Premier League.

Australian batsman Steve Smith on Saturday joined his new franchise Delhi Capitals and will go through a seven-day mandatory quarantine ahead of the Indian Premier League. Former Rajasthan Royals skipper joined the Delhi Capitals after they bought him for 2.2 crore rupees in this year's IPL auctions in February. The franchise took to Twitter and shared the image of the star batsman and the Gateway of India in one frame and wrote: "2 monumental icons in one frame. Welcome to the DC family, @stevesmith49". 𝟮 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗲 😌 Welcome to the DC family, @stevesmith49 🙌🏽💙#YehHaiNayiDilli @TajMahalMumbai pic.twitter.com/51IfI2OjGI — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 3, 2021 × Smith and his Australian teammate Marcus Stoinis will hardly get any time to train before their team's first match in the cash-rich T20 league on April 10. The team led by Rishabh Pant will face MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium. Smith's 2011 World Cup captain Ricky Ponting is the head coach of the team. However, the franchise has had couple of setbacks before the league kicked off. Their star captain Shreyas Iyer has been injured and is feared will miss the complete season. Their star-allrounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the league.

IPL 2021- Delhi Capitals' star batsman Steve Smith arrives in Mumbai

With less than a week to go for the 14th edition of Indian Premier League, ground staff at the Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-eight-groundsmen-at-wankhede-test-positive-for-covid-19-375116" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19</a>

However, the league will still go ahead but an official of one of the franchise -- based in Mumbai -- spoke to ANI and said that the situation has changed and calls for stricter protocols.

"You do get a little concerned when you hear such things days before the start of the tournament. We have all been following protocols to the core, but obviously, when such a news come in, it makes us a little wary. We are looking at keeping things as tight as possible. Have to be on our guard," the official said.

Another franchise official said it was a wake-up call for everyone heading into the tournament. "This could actually serve as a wake-up call before the start of the tournament. Sometimes we tend to get a little comfortable after going inside the bubble. But this will ensure we follow every protocol and there is no messing up," the official said.

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;

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.&nbsp;

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.

With less than a week to go for the 14th edition of Indian Premier League, ground staff at the Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for coronavirus. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19 However, the league will still go ahead but an official of one of the franchise -- based in Mumbai -- spoke to ANI and said that the situation has changed and calls for stricter protocols.

With less than a week to go for the 14th edition of Indian Premier League, ground staff at the Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for coronavirus. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Eight groundsmen at Wankhede test positive for COVID-19 However, the league will still go ahead but an official of one of the franchise -- based in Mumbai -- spoke to ANI and said that the situation has changed and calls for stricter protocols. "You do get a little concerned when you hear such things days before the start of the tournament. We have all been following protocols to the core, but obviously, when such a news come in, it makes us a little wary. We are looking at keeping things as tight as possible. Have to be on our guard," the official said. Another franchise official said it was a wake-up call for everyone heading into the tournament. "This could actually serve as a wake-up call before the start of the tournament. Sometimes we tend to get a little comfortable after going inside the bubble. But this will ensure we follow every protocol and there is no messing up," the official said. 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. 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.

IPL 2021- Franchises call for stricter protocols after groundsmen test positive for COVID-19

Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli on Friday said that he is "excited" for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League as it returns to India.

"It feels surreal. Honestly, it doesn't feel like we went away for too long as there was a lot of cricket in between as well but yeah, very excited that we are playing in India again," said Kohli in a video posted on RCB's Twitter.

"Although in a different way, in a different setting. I am very optimistic and yes I have a good feeling this time around," he added.

AB De Villiers feels that RCB can build on the momentum it gained in the previous edition of the cash-rich T20 league when the team qualified for the playoffs.&nbsp;

"It was a long journey. Very happy to be back with RCB, it feels like yesterday that we finished the IPL. I feel we have the momentum from the last tournament and we'll have a lot of fun," said de Villiers.

"There are some new names but also old names, the people I have known for ages. Dan (Christian) has been with RCB before, it's Maxi's (Maxwell) first time but we all have seen him so often in the IPL, hopefully, a lot of games for us to win together," he added

The Royal Challengers will kick off their IPL campaign in the season opener against Mumbai Indians on April 9 &nbsp;at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli on Friday said that he is "excited" for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League as it returns to India. "It feels surreal.

Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli on Friday said that he is "excited" for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League as it returns to India. "It feels surreal. Honestly, it doesn't feel like we went away for too long as there was a lot of cricket in between as well but yeah, very excited that we are playing in India again," said Kohli in a video posted on RCB's Twitter. "Although in a different way, in a different setting. I am very optimistic and yes I have a good feeling this time around," he added. AB De Villiers feels that RCB can build on the momentum it gained in the previous edition of the cash-rich T20 league when the team qualified for the playoffs. "It was a long journey. Very happy to be back with RCB, it feels like yesterday that we finished the IPL. I feel we have the momentum from the last tournament and we'll have a lot of fun," said de Villiers. "There are some new names but also old names, the people I have known for ages. Dan (Christian) has been with RCB before, it's Maxi's (Maxwell) first time but we all have seen him so often in the IPL, hopefully, a lot of games for us to win together," he added The Royal Challengers will kick off their IPL campaign in the season opener against Mumbai Indians on April 9 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

'Very excited that we are playing in India again': RCB skipper Virat Kohli

Chennai Super Kings' Robin Uthappa is all set for the upcoming Indian Premier League and expressed his desire to become the first cricketer to smash a thousand runs in one season of the cash-rich T20 league.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-ceo-opens-up-about-josh-hazlewoods-replacement-for-ipl-2021-374719" hreflang="en">CSK CEO opens up about Josh Hazlewood's replacement for IPL 2021</a>

Uthappa was traded to Chennai Super Kings from Rajasthan Royals and is excited to leave a mark in the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

"My personal goal will be to contribute to as many victories as possible, win at least a handful of games for my time. I would love to be the first guy to score 1,000 runs in a single IPL season," Robin Uthappa told ESPNcricinfo.

Uthappa went on to say that he is looking to score big against Mumbai Indians as they were a "formidable side".&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-yo-yo-test-existed-in-our-time-tendulkar-ganguly-laxman-wouldnt-have-passed-virender-sehwag-374697" hreflang="en">'If yo-yo test existed in our time, Tendulkar, Ganguly, Laxman wouldn't have passed': Virender Sehwag</a>

"Mumbai Indians will be the team I will be looking to play against. They are a formidable side and beating them will send a message across the board," he said.

He went on to add that he is learning a lot about biomechanics and is also doing a coaching course at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

"I am learning a lot about batting biomechanics, something I am truly understanding about and I am actually doing a coaching course at the moment with the NCA."

Chennai Super Kings will open their IPL campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. &nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings' Robin Uthappa is all set for the upcoming Indian Premier League and expressed his desire to become the first cricketer to smash a thousand runs in one season of the cash-rich T20 league.

Chennai Super Kings' Robin Uthappa is all set for the upcoming Indian Premier League and expressed his desire to become the first cricketer to smash a thousand runs in one season of the cash-rich T20 league. ALSO READ: CSK CEO opens up about Josh Hazlewood's replacement for IPL 2021 Uthappa was traded to Chennai Super Kings from Rajasthan Royals and is excited to leave a mark in the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League. "My personal goal will be to contribute to as many victories as possible, win at least a handful of games for my time. I would love to be the first guy to score 1,000 runs in a single IPL season," Robin Uthappa told ESPNcricinfo. Uthappa went on to say that he is looking to score big against Mumbai Indians as they were a "formidable side". ALSO READ: 'If yo-yo test existed in our time, Tendulkar, Ganguly, Laxman wouldn't have passed': Virender Sehwag "Mumbai Indians will be the team I will be looking to play against. They are a formidable side and beating them will send a message across the board," he said. He went on to add that he is learning a lot about biomechanics and is also doing a coaching course at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. "I am learning a lot about batting biomechanics, something I am truly understanding about and I am actually doing a coaching course at the moment with the NCA." Chennai Super Kings will open their IPL campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

'Would love to be the first to score 1,000 runs in single IPL season': Robin Uthappa

Chennai Super Kings suffered a big blow ahead of IPL 2021 as Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has opted out of the upcoming cash-rich T20 league and rest to face a cramped schedule of international cricket ahead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/weve-got-a-big-winter-ahead-csk-pacer-josh-hazlewood-opts-out-of-ipl-2021-374632" hreflang="en">'We've got a big winter ahead': CSK pacer Josh Hazlewood opts out of IPL 2021</a>

Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION that the franchise has not decided on Josh Hazlewood's replacement and they are yet to discuss it.&nbsp;

He said: "We haven't decided anything on Josh Hazlewood's replacement. We are yet to discuss it."

The 30-year-old was set to feature for a second season with Chennai Super Kings led by MS Dhoni in the IPL.&nbsp;

"It's been a long 10 months in bubbles and quarantine at different times, so I decided to have a rest from cricket and spend some time at home and in Australia in the next two months," Hazlewood told cricket.com.au.

"We've got a big winter ahead too. The West Indies is going to be a long tour, with Bangladesh (T20 tour) potentially thrown at the end of that.

"Then potentially the T20 World Cup leading into the Ashes, so it's a big 12 months ... and I want to give myself the best chance to be mentally and physically ready for that.

"That's the decision I've made, and it sits pretty well with me."

Josh Hazlewood joins his Aussie teammates Josh Philippe and Mitchell Marsh who opted out of the tournament citing personal reasons.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings suffered a big blow ahead of IPL 2021 as Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has opted out of the upcoming cash-rich T20 league and rest to face a cramped schedule of international cricket ahead.

Chennai Super Kings suffered a big blow ahead of IPL 2021 as Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has opted out of the upcoming cash-rich T20 league and rest to face a cramped schedule of international cricket ahead. ALSO READ: 'We've got a big winter ahead': CSK pacer Josh Hazlewood opts out of IPL 2021 Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION that the franchise has not decided on Josh Hazlewood's replacement and they are yet to discuss it. He said: "We haven't decided anything on Josh Hazlewood's replacement. We are yet to discuss it." The 30-year-old was set to feature for a second season with Chennai Super Kings led by MS Dhoni in the IPL. "It's been a long 10 months in bubbles and quarantine at different times, so I decided to have a rest from cricket and spend some time at home and in Australia in the next two months," Hazlewood told cricket.com.au. "We've got a big winter ahead too. The West Indies is going to be a long tour, with Bangladesh (T20 tour) potentially thrown at the end of that. "Then potentially the T20 World Cup leading into the Ashes, so it's a big 12 months ... and I want to give myself the best chance to be mentally and physically ready for that. "That's the decision I've made, and it sits pretty well with me." Josh Hazlewood joins his Aussie teammates Josh Philippe and Mitchell Marsh who opted out of the tournament citing personal reasons.

CSK CEO opens up about Josh Hazlewood's replacement for IPL 2021

Chennai Super Kings will seek redemption in IPL 2021 after putting a poor show in the 2020 season. The team led by MS Dhoni finished seventh in the Indian Premier League 2020 after getting 12 points from 14 games. &nbsp;

However, former Indian cricketer turned commentator Aakash Chopra made some bold predictions about Chennai as he felt that the team could face multiple issues during the upcoming season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-will-be-a-talismanic-leader-suresh-raina-on-rishabh-pant-leading-delhi-capitals-374423" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals</a>

The COVID-hit season will be played in the caravan format and no team will play on their home ground. Due to this, Chennai will not play at the MA Chidambaram but will play five matches at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and play four matches at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. Their three matches in the third leg will be played at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

They will end their league stage of the 2021 season at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

In a video uploaded by Chopra, he felt that Chennai Super Kings' combination will find it difficult to adapt to pitch conditions at the Wankhede Stadium.&nbsp;

"In Mumbai, the pacers are more successful. 70% of the wickets have been taken by pace bowlers and it's not particularly helpful to spinners and Chennai is a slightly spin-heavy team. They have Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner. They bought Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham. So, the list of spinners in their team is still quite high. Despite letting Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh) and [Piyush] Chawla go, they are a spin-heavy unit.

"Their fast bowling doesn't have a lot of firepower. Yes, they have Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Sam Curran, Lungi Ngidi, Dwayne Bravo, and Josh Hazlewood. But is that going to be enough? What will be the ideal balance?" added Chopra.

Chopra went on to add that if Chennai led by MS Dhoni, wins even three out of these five matches, it could be counted as an achievement.&nbsp;

"You are required to score high in Mumbai. The first innings winning score is nearly 180. So, they'll have to play a different brand of cricket there. If Chennai Super Kings can win three of their first five games in Mumbai, I believe that will be a big achievement. My prediction is that they might not start very well," said Chopra.

Aakash Chopra, however, expects Dhoni and Co. to do well in Delhi as it is a small ground and assists a lot of spinners.&nbsp;

"They should be alright in Delhi because it's a small ground and it (the wicket) assists the spinner a lot. The ball turns and also keeps low at times. The pitch will suit their brand of cricket," added Chopra.

"They do not have a good-enough bowling attack for Bengaluru. Bengaluru is bat vs bat contest and the overall bowling firepower required there is not there with Chennai. So, Bangalore is going to hurt them again."

"Kolkata, [looks] even-stevens. It's become a high-scoring, pace-friendly ground as well. I think Chennai is going to face some difficulties there as well," added Chopra.&nbsp;

Chennai are set to kick-off their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings will seek redemption in IPL 2021 after putting a poor show in the 2020 season. The team led by MS Dhoni finished seventh in the Indian Premier League 2020 after getting 12 points from 14 games.

Chennai Super Kings will seek redemption in IPL 2021 after putting a poor show in the 2020 season. The team led by MS Dhoni finished seventh in the Indian Premier League 2020 after getting 12 points from 14 games. However, former Indian cricketer turned commentator Aakash Chopra made some bold predictions about Chennai as he felt that the team could face multiple issues during the upcoming season. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals The COVID-hit season will be played in the caravan format and no team will play on their home ground. Due to this, Chennai will not play at the MA Chidambaram but will play five matches at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and play four matches at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. Their three matches in the third leg will be played at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. They will end their league stage of the 2021 season at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. In a video uploaded by Chopra, he felt that Chennai Super Kings' combination will find it difficult to adapt to pitch conditions at the Wankhede Stadium. "In Mumbai, the pacers are more successful. 70% of the wickets have been taken by pace bowlers and it's not particularly helpful to spinners and Chennai is a slightly spin-heavy team. They have Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Ravindra Jadeja, Mitchell Santner. They bought Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham. So, the list of spinners in their team is still quite high. Despite letting Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh) and [Piyush] Chawla go, they are a spin-heavy unit. "Their fast bowling doesn't have a lot of firepower. Yes, they have Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Sam Curran, Lungi Ngidi, Dwayne Bravo, and Josh Hazlewood. But is that going to be enough? What will be the ideal balance?" added Chopra. Chopra went on to add that if Chennai led by MS Dhoni, wins even three out of these five matches, it could be counted as an achievement. "You are required to score high in Mumbai. The first innings winning score is nearly 180. So, they'll have to play a different brand of cricket there. If Chennai Super Kings can win three of their first five games in Mumbai, I believe that will be a big achievement. My prediction is that they might not start very well," said Chopra. Aakash Chopra, however, expects Dhoni and Co. to do well in Delhi as it is a small ground and assists a lot of spinners. "They should be alright in Delhi because it's a small ground and it (the wicket) assists the spinner a lot. The ball turns and also keeps low at times. The pitch will suit their brand of cricket," added Chopra. "They do not have a good-enough bowling attack for Bengaluru. Bengaluru is bat vs bat contest and the overall bowling firepower required there is not there with Chennai. So, Bangalore is going to hurt them again." "Kolkata, [looks] even-stevens. It's become a high-scoring, pace-friendly ground as well. I think Chennai is going to face some difficulties there as well," added Chopra. Chennai are set to kick-off their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10.

IPL- 'Might not start very well': Aakash Chopra predicts Chennai Super Kings' 2021 campaign

Former Indian cricket and Chennai Super Kings star Suresh Raina congratulated Rishabh Pant on being named the captain for Delhi Capitals for IPL 2021. Raina believes that Pant will be "a talismanic leader" for the team.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-makes-the-game-rcbs-devdutt-padikkal-on-batting-alongside-skipper-virat-kohli-374387" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Makes the game..': RCB's Devdutt Padikkal on batting alongside skipper Virat Kohli</a>

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury.&nbsp;

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Heartiest congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> on being named the captain of <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> for this season. I am sure he will be a talismanic leader and will be donning this new cap with pride.🙌
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1376938912036188160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After being named captain, Chennai Super Kings batsman Suresh Raina took to Twitter and said: "Heartiest congratulations to @RishabhPant17 on being named the captain of @DelhiCapitals for this season. I am sure he will be a talismanic leader and will be donning this new cap with pride."

Rishabh Pant began his journey in the Indian Premier League in 2016 for Delhi. The brute southpaw made headlines in 2018 when he smashed 684 runs in the cash-rich T20 league. He was named the vice-captain in IPL 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-name-rishabh-pant-as-captain-for-ipl-2021-374326" hreflang="en">Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021</a>

"Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant said after being appointed DC captain for IPL 2021.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant is having a prolific run. The Indian wicketkeeper cemented his position in the playing XI after a wonderful performance agains Australia and England. &nbsp;

Former Indian cricket and Chennai Super Kings star Suresh Raina congratulated Rishabh Pant on being named the captain for Delhi Capitals for IPL 2021. Raina believes that Pant will be "a talismanic leader" for the team.

Former Indian cricket and Chennai Super Kings star Suresh Raina congratulated Rishabh Pant on being named the captain for Delhi Capitals for IPL 2021. Raina believes that Pant will be "a talismanic leader" for the team. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Makes the game..': RCB's Devdutt Padikkal on batting alongside skipper Virat Kohli Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury. Heartiest congratulations to @RishabhPant17 on being named the captain of @DelhiCapitals for this season. I am sure he will be a talismanic leader and will be donning this new cap with pride.🙌 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) March 30, 2021 × After being named captain, Chennai Super Kings batsman Suresh Raina took to Twitter and said: "Heartiest congratulations to @RishabhPant17 on being named the captain of @DelhiCapitals for this season. I am sure he will be a talismanic leader and will be donning this new cap with pride." Rishabh Pant began his journey in the Indian Premier League in 2016 for Delhi. The brute southpaw made headlines in 2018 when he smashed 684 runs in the cash-rich T20 league. He was named the vice-captain in IPL 2020. ALSO READ: Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021 "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant said after being appointed DC captain for IPL 2021. Rishabh Pant is having a prolific run. The Indian wicketkeeper cemented his position in the playing XI after a wonderful performance agains Australia and England.

IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals

Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Harbhajan, who didn't play IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, was signed by KKR during the auction and all eyes will be on the World Cup-winning off-spinner in the lucrative T20 tournament.&nbsp;

Harbhajan, who hasn't played professional cricket since the final of IPL 2019, received backing from KKR captain Eoin Morgan as he said that he adds plenty of experience and value to the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Now, Harbhajan has said that many have asked why he is still playing at the age of 40 but added he is not here to prove anything to anyone but for his own satisfaction.&nbsp;

"A lot of people think 'Bhai yeh&nbsp;kyun&nbsp;khel&nbsp;raha&nbsp;hain?' Arrey bhai ye&nbsp;unki&nbsp;soch&nbsp;hai, meri&nbsp;naahi. Meri&nbsp;soch&nbsp;hai&nbsp;ki&nbsp;main&nbsp;abhi&nbsp;khel&nbsp;sakta&nbsp;hoon,&nbsp;toh&nbsp;main&nbsp;khelunga&nbsp;(People think 'why is he playing' but that's your opinion. From where I see myself, I want to play and I will play)," Harbhajan told&nbsp;PTI in an interview.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a>

"I have got nothing to prove to anyone. My intention is to play well, enjoy my stint out there in the middle and playing cricket still gives me that satisfaction.&nbsp;

"I have set a standard for myself and if I don't meet that, I don't need anyone else but I will blame myself. I need to ask myself, did I put in the optimum effort that was required," he said just before moving into the team bubble."&nbsp;

Harbhajan will join the likes of Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav among others in the spin-heavy KKR outfit. The 40-year-old sounded confident ahead of IPL 2021 as he said with experience under his belt, he knows what to do in what conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-lucky-that-i-will-be-playing-under-mahi-bhai-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374456" hreflang="en">'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021</a>

"These questions are asked because I haven't played a lot of cricket of late so teams are a bit defensive at auction and they don't want to bid for me," Harbhajan said.&nbsp;

"But let me remind you all that when I did well for CSK in the 2019 IPL, I hadn't played any domestic cricket. I came to the camp, prepared and went into the match. At my level and experience, I know what needs to be done.&nbsp;

"I don't need to play domestic cricket for Punjab and stop a young talent from flourishing. That boy needs that chance more than me," he added.&nbsp;

Kolkata knight Riders will&nbsp;start&nbsp;their&nbsp;IPL 2021&nbsp;campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 11&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9.

Harbhajan Singh is set to be back on the cricket field with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Harbhajan, who didn't play IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, was signed by KKR during the auction and all eyes will be on the World Cup-winning off-spinner in the lucrative T20 tournament. Harbhajan, who hasn't played professional cricket since the final of IPL 2019, received backing from KKR captain Eoin Morgan as he said that he adds plenty of experience and value to the team. Now, Harbhajan has said that many have asked why he is still playing at the age of 40 but added he is not here to prove anything to anyone but for his own satisfaction. "A lot of people think 'Bhai yeh kyun khel raha hain?' Arrey bhai ye unki soch hai, meri naahi. Meri soch hai ki main abhi khel sakta hoon, toh main khelunga (People think 'why is he playing' but that's your opinion. From where I see myself, I want to play and I will play)," Harbhajan told PTI in an interview. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION "I have got nothing to prove to anyone. My intention is to play well, enjoy my stint out there in the middle and playing cricket still gives me that satisfaction. "I have set a standard for myself and if I don't meet that, I don't need anyone else but I will blame myself. I need to ask myself, did I put in the optimum effort that was required," he said just before moving into the team bubble." Harbhajan will join the likes of Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav among others in the spin-heavy KKR outfit. The 40-year-old sounded confident ahead of IPL 2021 as he said with experience under his belt, he knows what to do in what conditions. ALSO READ: 'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021 "These questions are asked because I haven't played a lot of cricket of late so teams are a bit defensive at auction and they don't want to bid for me," Harbhajan said. "But let me remind you all that when I did well for CSK in the 2019 IPL, I hadn't played any domestic cricket. I came to the camp, prepared and went into the match. At my level and experience, I know what needs to be done. "I don't need to play domestic cricket for Punjab and stop a young talent from flourishing. That boy needs that chance more than me," he added. Kolkata knight Riders will start their IPL 2021 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 11

I have set a standard for myself: Harbhajan Singh answers critics ahead of KKR stint in IPL 2021

Devdutt Padikkal is ready for his first Indian Premier League at home. He had a prolific run in the 2020 edition of the cash-rich league and continued his sublime form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament, where the 20-year-old became the first Indian player to smash four consecutive hundreds in List A cricket.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<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" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

The 20-year-old opener talked about his experience with skipper Virat Kohli and South Africa's AB de Villiers in an interview with Hindustan Times. He said: "That was a pretty special experience to have. You get to learn so much from them. The kind of passion and drive they have for the game, the way they play, the way they carry themselves through the busy, long tournament."

Padikkal has opened innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore alongside Virat Kohli in the previous edition. He talked about his experience while batting alongside the Indian captain and how he "makes the game pretty easy".&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-lead-this-team-one-day-rishabh-pant-reacts-as-delhi-capitals-announce-him-as-captain-for-ipl-2021-374331" hreflang="en">'To lead this team one day...': Rishabh Pant reacts as Delhi Capitals announce him as captain for IPL 2021</a>

He said: "He plays at such a high level; when you are batting with him, you feel you have to really push yourself and match the standard at which he plays. That helped improve my game."&nbsp;

"Batting with him, he makes the game pretty easy. He understands the game so well, when to take a chance and when to pull back, and when to really go after the bowling. When you have so much knowledge and experience it makes our job very easy at the other end," the 20-year-old added.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to kick-off IPL 2021 in the season-opener against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai on April 9, 2021.

Devdutt Padikkal is ready for his first Indian Premier League at home. He had a prolific run in the 2020 edition of the cash-rich league and continued his sublime form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament, where the 20-year-old became the first Indian player to smash four consecutive hundreds in List A cricket.

Devdutt Padikkal is ready for his first Indian Premier League at home. He had a prolific run in the 2020 edition of the cash-rich league and continued his sublime form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament, where the 20-year-old became the first Indian player to smash four consecutive hundreds in List A cricket. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 The 20-year-old opener talked about his experience with skipper Virat Kohli and South Africa's AB de Villiers in an interview with Hindustan Times. He said: "That was a pretty special experience to have. You get to learn so much from them. The kind of passion and drive they have for the game, the way they play, the way they carry themselves through the busy, long tournament." Padikkal has opened innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore alongside Virat Kohli in the previous edition. He talked about his experience while batting alongside the Indian captain and how he "makes the game pretty easy". ALSO READ: 'To lead this team one day...': Rishabh Pant reacts as Delhi Capitals announce him as captain for IPL 2021 He said: "He plays at such a high level; when you are batting with him, you feel you have to really push yourself and match the standard at which he plays. That helped improve my game." "Batting with him, he makes the game pretty easy. He understands the game so well, when to take a chance and when to pull back, and when to really go after the bowling. When you have so much knowledge and experience it makes our job very easy at the other end," the 20-year-old added. Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to kick-off IPL 2021 in the season-opener against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai on April 9, 2021.

IPL 2021- 'Makes the game..': RCB's Devdutt Padikkal on batting alongside skipper Virat Kohli

Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain&nbsp;Eoin Morgan gave an update on his fitness as he said the gap between the ODI series between India-England and IPL gave him the best time to recover. Morgan, England's limited-overs skipper, missed the final two ODIs against India&nbsp;after sustaining a split webbing between his thumb and index finger in the series opener.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Morgan's injury required four stitches and KKR fans were in worry whether the talismanic&nbsp;leader will miss a few games early in IPL 2021 due to the injury.&nbsp;However, Morgan has said that he is feeling a lot better now and is looking forward to his progress in the coming days. The southpaw added that doctors would be removing the stitches on Thursday.&nbsp;

"Yeah, I feel a lot better than I did a week ago. The plan moving forward is to remove the stitches tomorrow and progress with my batting in the coming days and fielding on the back of that. Given the time frame I have available, it's looking very good," said Morgan during a virtual press conference on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunrisers-hyderabad-sign-jason-roy-as-mitchell-marsh-pulls-out-of-ipl-2021-374521" hreflang="en">Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Jason Roy as Mitchell Marsh pulls out of IPL 2021</a>

There plenty of debates surrounding KKR's batting order and team composition during IPL 2020 where the Kolkata outfit narrowly missed out on the playoffs. Morgan is of the view that KKR have plenty of versatility that&nbsp;gives them the opportunity to shuffle things around. However, he admitted that they need to make the right call during matches.&nbsp;

"We are all due to get together quite soon towards the end of the week in which we will discuss our plans and thoughts and actually talk about our strengths as a squad and team. Last year, we saw the versatility within our middle order and the flexibility to promote myself, DK, or Sunil. If we play well, there will be a lot of teams that will not enjoy playing against us. We need to make the right call in when to play the best hand and that is one thing we learnt from the last year."&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a>

"The IPL is the biggest tournament in the world which has the biggest of players. A competitive campaign or successful campaign is the battle with the injuries or illness along the way. Whether you like it or not, it does happen throughout a season. Planning needs to be put across to strengthen your team across all areas. We did that in this auction and we are hoping to best position ourselves to have a versatile team when it comes to selection," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IPL will begin on April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indians locking horns&nbsp;in the tournament opener. KKR will play their first game on April 11 against SunRisers Hyderabad.&nbsp;

Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Eoin Morgan gave an update on his fitness as he said the gap between the ODI series between India-England and IPL gave him the best time to recover.

Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Eoin Morgan gave an update on his fitness as he said the gap between the ODI series between India-England and IPL gave him the best time to recover. Morgan, England's limited-overs skipper, missed the final two ODIs against India after sustaining a split webbing between his thumb and index finger in the series opener. Morgan's injury required four stitches and KKR fans were in worry whether the talismanic leader will miss a few games early in IPL 2021 due to the injury. However, Morgan has said that he is feeling a lot better now and is looking forward to his progress in the coming days. The southpaw added that doctors would be removing the stitches on Thursday. "Yeah, I feel a lot better than I did a week ago. The plan moving forward is to remove the stitches tomorrow and progress with my batting in the coming days and fielding on the back of that. Given the time frame I have available, it's looking very good," said Morgan during a virtual press conference on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Jason Roy as Mitchell Marsh pulls out of IPL 2021 There plenty of debates surrounding KKR's batting order and team composition during IPL 2020 where the Kolkata outfit narrowly missed out on the playoffs. Morgan is of the view that KKR have plenty of versatility that gives them the opportunity to shuffle things around. However, he admitted that they need to make the right call during matches. "We are all due to get together quite soon towards the end of the week in which we will discuss our plans and thoughts and actually talk about our strengths as a squad and team. Last year, we saw the versatility within our middle order and the flexibility to promote myself, DK, or Sunil. If we play well, there will be a lot of teams that will not enjoy playing against us. We need to make the right call in when to play the best hand and that is one thing we learnt from the last year." ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION "The IPL is the biggest tournament in the world which has the biggest of players. A competitive campaign or successful campaign is the battle with the injuries or illness along the way. Whether you like it or not, it does happen throughout a season. Planning needs to be put across to strengthen your team across all areas. We did that in this auction and we are hoping to best position ourselves to have a versatile team when it comes to selection," he added. IPL will begin on April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indians locking horns in the tournament opener. KKR will play their first game on April 11 against SunRisers Hyderabad.

KKR captain Eoin Morgan provides update on his split webbing injury ahead of IPL 2021

Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder&nbsp;Mitchell Marsh has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. WION has learned from sources close to the development that Marsh&nbsp;didn't want to spend time inside a strict bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;The Aussie informed the Sunrisers Hyderabad about his decision a few days ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yes, Mitchell Marsh has pulled out," confirmed a source close to SRH camp to WION.

Later on the day, Sunrisers Hyderabad announced England opener Jason Roy as Marsh's replacement.

Marsh would have had to undergo a seven-day isolation period while being inside the&nbsp;stringent&nbsp;bio-secure environment for the almost two-month-long tournament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a>

The Australian all-rounder missed the IPL 2020 after twisting his angle in SRH's first match of the tournament last season. While Marsh was ruled out of IPL 2020, West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder had replaced him in the SRH squad. Marsh was&nbsp;signed up by SRH for INR 2 crore.&nbsp;

Marsh was part of the Australian squad in the recently concluded T20I series&nbsp;but couldn’t get a game under his belt. Since then, he has been playing for Victoria in the Sheffield Shield.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Marsh, who made his Indian Premier League debut in 2010 has played a total of 21 IPL games. His replacement, Jason Roy made his IPL debut in 2017 playing for Gujarat Lions and&nbsp;later featured for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the 2018 IPL edition. He has played a total of 8 matches and scored 179 runs with one half-century to his name. &nbsp;

The Australian contingent of IPL 2021 players is set to depart for India on April 1 with the likes of Pat Cummins, David Warner&nbsp;among others joining their respective squads on April 2.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-lucky-that-i-will-be-playing-under-mahi-bhai-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-ipl-2021-374456" hreflang="en">'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021</a>

IPL 2021 is set to begin on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

&nbsp;

Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. WION has learned from sources close to the development that Marsh didn't want to spend time inside a strict bio-secure bubble.

Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. WION has learned from sources close to the development that Marsh didn't want to spend time inside a strict bio-secure bubble. The Aussie informed the Sunrisers Hyderabad about his decision a few days ago. "Yes, Mitchell Marsh has pulled out," confirmed a source close to SRH camp to WION. Later on the day, Sunrisers Hyderabad announced England opener Jason Roy as Marsh's replacement. Marsh would have had to undergo a seven-day isolation period while being inside the stringent bio-secure environment for the almost two-month-long tournament. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION The Australian all-rounder missed the IPL 2020 after twisting his angle in SRH's first match of the tournament last season. While Marsh was ruled out of IPL 2020, West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder had replaced him in the SRH squad. Marsh was signed up by SRH for INR 2 crore. Marsh was part of the Australian squad in the recently concluded T20I series but couldn’t get a game under his belt. Since then, he has been playing for Victoria in the Sheffield Shield. Marsh, who made his Indian Premier League debut in 2010 has played a total of 21 IPL games. His replacement, Jason Roy made his IPL debut in 2017 playing for Gujarat Lions and later featured for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the 2018 IPL edition. He has played a total of 8 matches and scored 179 runs with one half-century to his name. The Australian contingent of IPL 2021 players is set to depart for India on April 1 with the likes of Pat Cummins, David Warner among others joining their respective squads on April 2. ALSO READ: 'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021 IPL 2021 is set to begin on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

Sunrisers Hyderabad sign Jason Roy as Mitchell Marsh pulls out of IPL 2021

England pacer Jofra Archer on Monday underwent successful surgery on his right hand. A fragment of glass was removed from his middle finger on his right hand during the surgery.&nbsp;

Archer will not start two weeks of rehabilitation and the consultant will review the England pacer before he gets back to training.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A further update on his elbow injury – unrelated to his finger injury – will be provided once he has returned to bowling&nbsp;to access the effectiveness of his recent injection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-punjab-kings-more-balanced-squad-than-last-season-wasim-jaffer-to-wion-374488" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION</a>

Archer suffered a cut to his hand while cleaning a fish tank at his home in January shortly before flying to India for the Test series. The pacer's injury was managed by ECB's medical team during the tour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, it is yet unclear whether Archer will be able to take any part in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While it is confirmed that Archer will miss a couple of weeks of action due to the surgery, he could be back for the later phase of IPL 2021 given how his recovery&nbsp;goes. A call on his availability will be taken later by the ECB.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<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" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

Archer is a crucial member of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) squad and his absence comes as a huge blow to the franchise, who would be looking to lift the coveted trophy for the first time since 2008.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With a busy summer approaching England, the team would want to have Archer fully fit for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes.&nbsp;

England pacer Jofra Archer on Monday underwent successful surgery on his right hand. A fragment of glass was removed from his middle finger on his right hand during the surgery.

England pacer Jofra Archer on Monday underwent successful surgery on his right hand. A fragment of glass was removed from his middle finger on his right hand during the surgery. Archer will not start two weeks of rehabilitation and the consultant will review the England pacer before he gets back to training. A further update on his elbow injury – unrelated to his finger injury – will be provided once he has returned to bowling to access the effectiveness of his recent injection. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION Archer suffered a cut to his hand while cleaning a fish tank at his home in January shortly before flying to India for the Test series. The pacer's injury was managed by ECB's medical team during the tour. However, it is yet unclear whether Archer will be able to take any part in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While it is confirmed that Archer will miss a couple of weeks of action due to the surgery, he could be back for the later phase of IPL 2021 given how his recovery goes. A call on his availability will be taken later by the ECB. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Archer is a crucial member of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) squad and his absence comes as a huge blow to the franchise, who would be looking to lift the coveted trophy for the first time since 2008. With a busy summer approaching England, the team would want to have Archer fully fit for the T20 World Cup and the Ashes.

England provide injury update on Jofra Archer ahead of IPL 2021

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to commence from April 9 with eight teams gearing up to battle it out for the coveted trophy. Punjab Kings are one of the outfits&nbsp;who are yet to win IPL but would be raring to go and end the trophy drought.&nbsp;

A revamped Punjab Kings, with a refreshed brand presence, would be itching to do well in the 14th&nbsp;edition of the IPL after years of disappointments and heartbreaks. Punjab Kings batting coach and one of the legendary names in Indian cricket, Wasim Jaffer, in interaction&nbsp;with WION,&nbsp;talked about the new additions in the squad, the talk around tactics and 'match-ups', and workload management.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since the introduction of T20 cricket, the term ‘match-up’ has been used far more than it was used before. The shortest format of the game and arguably the most&nbsp;challenging for players when it comes to making instant impact and decisions.&nbsp;While some pundits have, in past, said that teams and players sometimes dwell too much on tactical decisions and match-ups, Jaffer is of the view that it is one of the crucial aspects of the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

<img alt="Wasim Jaffer Punjab Kings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c37bd5ea-c005-4277-9b26-afeeda43ae46" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1P9fjbYEBd.jpg" />

“It has become important because it is such as short format. If a batsman is facing trouble against one particular type of bowler, then you would want to exploit that weakness. The batsmen don't have too much time to settle down so those match-ups really matter in the shortest format. If it’s the longer format say 50 overs then the batsmen have a little bit of breathing space. So, in T20 format it matters a lot,” Jaffer told WION.&nbsp;

“Don't get me wrong. you need to have variety. If an off-spinner is bowling then it does look like that the right-hand batsman will take him on. The ball going away from you will obviously be difficult to hit. That's why as soon as a left-hander comes you bring a right-arm off-spinner. When two left-handers are batting, you don't see a captain opting for two left-arm spinners. It is something captains fear that he might go for runs. But at the same time, some quality bowlers will bowl in every situation. Bowlers like Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar&nbsp;who have got quality and variety will always survive. But as I said, in the shorter format you don't have the breathing space to settle down and that goes for a bowler as well so that is where match-ups become important,” Jaffer, who is also the highest run-scorer&nbsp;in Ranji Trophy history, explained.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<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" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

Punjab Kings captain KL Rahul roared back to form for Team India in the recently concluded ODI series against England. However, he faced criticism during the T20I series where he struggled to get it going with the willow with terms such as 'poor form’ and 'rough patch' being thrown around by fans and experts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think those terms are bound to come your way in today's world. Such is this sport. But with so many matches being played, the quicker players lose form, the quicker they can get back to the rhythm. Recently, KL Rahul was going through a dry run in the T20I series but he got the ODI series to gain his confidence back. I think it is natural that players won't be able to perform in every match and it is important to not lose focus when you are not scoring big runs or getting wickets,” Jaffer said.&nbsp;

<img alt="Jaffer Punjab" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c41249f-1962-4017-8344-705360a235a1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/XFxNUPcvQw.jpg" />

In the IPL 2021 auction, Punjab Kings went with the biggest purse and ended up signing some big-name players such as Dawid Malan,&nbsp;Jhye&nbsp;Richardson, Fabian Allen among others. With a static core, Punjab bolstered their squad by adding match-winners and it would be interesting to see how they fare&nbsp;in the tournament. Jaffer is excited by the new additions and looking forward to working with them during the season.&nbsp;

List of players bought by Punjab Kings: Dawid Malan (INR 1.5 crore),&nbsp;Jhye&nbsp;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)&nbsp;

“It has got much more balance as compared to last season. We were lacking bowlers who would back Mohammed Shami. We had Chris Jordan but we needed somebody who can bowl at 145kph&nbsp;in the death overs, where we leaked a lot of runs before. With their additions, it is going to be a bit different this season. Both of them,&nbsp;Jhye&nbsp;and Meredith have got pace. Dawid Malan is the number one T20I batsman. Fabian Allen is another guy who can make a lot of impact down the order and with the ball. So yes, the additions are looking good. ” Jaffer said.&nbsp;

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With the ICC World Test Championship final and T20 World Cup around the corner, players would want to keep themselves fresh for the showpiece events. With Punjab Kings having key players from the Indian team in their set-up, all eyes would be on them as to how they manage the workload&nbsp;of vital players. Jaffer said that Punjab Kings looked after workload management of key players last season and are looking to do the same this season in a bid to avoid burnout.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have always looked after our players. Anil bhai (Anil Kumble),&nbsp;Andrew (Andrew&nbsp;Leipus)&nbsp;and the medical staff&nbsp;are there to look after the workload management aspect of the game.&nbsp;We don't our players to suffer from burnout. And even last season, we took care of the workload of our players.&nbsp;It is important to keep the players fresh to get the best out of them,” Jaffer&nbsp;concluded.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to commence from April 9 with eight teams gearing up to battle it out for the coveted trophy. Punjab Kings are one of the outfits who are yet to win IPL but would be raring to go and end the trophy drought.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to commence from April 9 with eight teams gearing up to battle it out for the coveted trophy. Punjab Kings are one of the outfits who are yet to win IPL but would be raring to go and end the trophy drought. A revamped Punjab Kings, with a refreshed brand presence, would be itching to do well in the 14th edition of the IPL after years of disappointments and heartbreaks. Punjab Kings batting coach and one of the legendary names in Indian cricket, Wasim Jaffer, in interaction with WION, talked about the new additions in the squad, the talk around tactics and 'match-ups', and workload management. Since the introduction of T20 cricket, the term ‘match-up’ has been used far more than it was used before. The shortest format of the game and arguably the most challenging for players when it comes to making instant impact and decisions. While some pundits have, in past, said that teams and players sometimes dwell too much on tactical decisions and match-ups, Jaffer is of the view that it is one of the crucial aspects of the shortest format of the game. “It has become important because it is such as short format. If a batsman is facing trouble against one particular type of bowler, then you would want to exploit that weakness. The batsmen don't have too much time to settle down so those match-ups really matter in the shortest format. If it’s the longer format say 50 overs then the batsmen have a little bit of breathing space. So, in T20 format it matters a lot,” Jaffer told WION. “Don't get me wrong. you need to have variety. If an off-spinner is bowling then it does look like that the right-hand batsman will take him on. The ball going away from you will obviously be difficult to hit. That's why as soon as a left-hander comes you bring a right-arm off-spinner. When two left-handers are batting, you don't see a captain opting for two left-arm spinners. It is something captains fear that he might go for runs. But at the same time, some quality bowlers will bowl in every situation. Bowlers like Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar who have got quality and variety will always survive. But as I said, in the shorter format you don't have the breathing space to settle down and that goes for a bowler as well so that is where match-ups become important,” Jaffer, who is also the highest run-scorer in Ranji Trophy history, explained. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Punjab Kings captain KL Rahul roared back to form for Team India in the recently concluded ODI series against England. However, he faced criticism during the T20I series where he struggled to get it going with the willow with terms such as 'poor form’ and 'rough patch' being thrown around by fans and experts. “I think those terms are bound to come your way in today's world. Such is this sport. But with so many matches being played, the quicker players lose form, the quicker they can get back to the rhythm. Recently, KL Rahul was going through a dry run in the T20I series but he got the ODI series to gain his confidence back. I think it is natural that players won't be able to perform in every match and it is important to not lose focus when you are not scoring big runs or getting wickets,” Jaffer said. In the IPL 2021 auction, Punjab Kings went with the biggest purse and ended up signing some big-name players such as Dawid Malan, Jhye Richardson, Fabian Allen among others. With a static core, Punjab bolstered their squad by adding match-winners and it would be interesting to see how they fare in the tournament. Jaffer is excited by the new additions and looking forward to working with them during the season. List of players bought by Punjab Kings: 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) “It has got much more balance as compared to last season. We were lacking bowlers who would back Mohammed Shami. We had Chris Jordan but we needed somebody who can bowl at 145kph in the death overs, where we leaked a lot of runs before. With their additions, it is going to be a bit different this season. Both of them, Jhye and Meredith have got pace. Dawid Malan is the number one T20I batsman. Fabian Allen is another guy who can make a lot of impact down the order and with the ball. So yes, the additions are looking good. ” Jaffer said. ALSO READ: Very humbling experience: Dawid Malan, Sam Billings on interaction with blind cricketers in India And the hustle begins... 🏃‍♂️#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/TV0JcrX8N2 — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) March 27, 2021 × With the ICC World Test Championship final and T20 World Cup around the corner, players would want to keep themselves fresh for the showpiece events. With Punjab Kings having key players from the Indian team in their set-up, all eyes would be on them as to how they manage the workload of vital players. Jaffer said that Punjab Kings looked after workload management of key players last season and are looking to do the same this season in a bid to avoid burnout. “We have always looked after our players. Anil bhai (Anil Kumble), Andrew (Andrew Leipus) and the medical staff are there to look after the workload management aspect of the game. We don't our players to suffer from burnout. And even last season, we took care of the workload of our players. It is important to keep the players fresh to get the best out of them,” Jaffer concluded.

IPL 2021: Punjab Kings more balanced squad than last season - Wasim Jaffer to WION

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury. After being appointed the captain of Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant said that&nbsp;he always dreamt about leading Delhi and the dream has now come true.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pant, who made his IPL debut in 2016, has come a long way. From being a hard-hitting batsman to become a match-winner for DC and Team India, the youngster has exponentially grown as a player over the years. In the 2018 edition of IPL, Pant hammered an impressive&nbsp;684 runs before being named the vice-captain of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pant said that with a top coaching staff and a plethora of experienced players around him, he can't wait to give his best for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-name-rishabh-pant-as-captain-for-ipl-2021-374326" hreflang="en">Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021</a>

"Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always&nbsp;harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant said after being appointed DC captain for IPL 2021.&nbsp;

Whereas Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting said that this is a tremendous opportunity for Pant while adding successful series against Australia and England will give him the confidence to succeed in the new role.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<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" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

Ricky Ponting said, “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.”&nbsp;

Rishabh&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;first match as Delhi Capitals captain will be against MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings on April 10.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury.

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as the captain for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season while ruling out Shreyas Iyer for the entire tournament due to shoulder injury. After being appointed the captain of Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant said that he always dreamt about leading Delhi and the dream has now come true. Pant, who made his IPL debut in 2016, has come a long way. From being a hard-hitting batsman to become a match-winner for DC and Team India, the youngster has exponentially grown as a player over the years. In the 2018 edition of IPL, Pant hammered an impressive 684 runs before being named the vice-captain of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2020. Pant said that with a top coaching staff and a plethora of experienced players around him, he can't wait to give his best for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021. ALSO READ: Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021 "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals,” Pant said after being appointed DC captain for IPL 2021. Whereas Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting said that this is a tremendous opportunity for Pant while adding successful series against Australia and England will give him the confidence to succeed in the new role. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Ricky Ponting said, “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.” Rishabh Pant's first match as Delhi Capitals captain will be against MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings on April 10.

'To lead this team one day...': Rishabh Pant reacts as Delhi Capitals announce him as captain for IPL 2021

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as captain for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Pant will take the leadership duties from Shreyas Iyer, who will miss the 14th edition of the T20 tournament due to left shoulder injury.

“I would like to wish Shreyas a speedy recovery,” said DC Chairman &amp; Co-owner Mr Kiran Kumar Grandhi on the occasion, “Under Shreyas’ captaincy, our team reached newer heights, and he is going to be missed immensely. In his absence, the franchise has collectively picked Rishabh to lead the team this year. While it has come under unfortunate circumstances, it is a tremendous opportunity for him to grow further. I wish him all the best in his new role.”

“There is no doubt that Shreyas Iyer’s leadership and batting will be missed this year, and we hope to see him back on the field soon,” said team co-owner Mr Parth Jindal, “Delhi Capitals as a team plays a passionate and fearless brand of cricket, and Rishabh Pant embodies that best. The Delhi team has played an important role in his growth as a cricketer, just like he has played an equally important role in the growth of the Delhi team. I wish Rishabh and the team good luck.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<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" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021</a>

Speaking on the latest development, Shreyas Iyer said, “When I sustained the shoulder injury, and Delhi Capitals needed a leader for this edition of the IPL, I had no doubt that Rishabh would be the best man for the job. He has all my good wishes to make amazing things happen with our absolutely incredible team. I’m going to miss the team tremendously, and will be cheering for them throughout.”

On his new role, Rishabh Pant said, "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals."

Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting said, “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.”

This will be Rishabh Pant’s debut as IPL captain. The 23-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman has captained Delhi’s state team in the past.

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as captain for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Pant will take the leadership duties from Shreyas Iyer, who will miss the 14th edition of the T20 tournament due to left shoulder injury.

Delhi Capitals on Tuesday announced Rishabh Pant as captain for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Pant will take the leadership duties from Shreyas Iyer, who will miss the 14th edition of the T20 tournament due to left shoulder injury. “I would like to wish Shreyas a speedy recovery,” said DC Chairman & Co-owner Mr Kiran Kumar Grandhi on the occasion, “Under Shreyas’ captaincy, our team reached newer heights, and he is going to be missed immensely. In his absence, the franchise has collectively picked Rishabh to lead the team this year. While it has come under unfortunate circumstances, it is a tremendous opportunity for him to grow further. I wish him all the best in his new role.” “There is no doubt that Shreyas Iyer’s leadership and batting will be missed this year, and we hope to see him back on the field soon,” said team co-owner Mr Parth Jindal, “Delhi Capitals as a team plays a passionate and fearless brand of cricket, and Rishabh Pant embodies that best. The Delhi team has played an important role in his growth as a cricketer, just like he has played an equally important role in the growth of the Delhi team. I wish Rishabh and the team good luck.” ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 Speaking on the latest development, Shreyas Iyer said, “When I sustained the shoulder injury, and Delhi Capitals needed a leader for this edition of the IPL, I had no doubt that Rishabh would be the best man for the job. He has all my good wishes to make amazing things happen with our absolutely incredible team. I’m going to miss the team tremendously, and will be cheering for them throughout.” On his new role, Rishabh Pant said, "Delhi is where I grew up, and where my IPL journey began six years ago. To lead this team one day is a dream I've always harboured. And today, as that dream comes true, I feel humbled. I am truly grateful, especially to our team owners, who considered me capable enough for this role. With an amazing coaching staff, and a plethora of accomplished seniors around me, I can't wait to give my absolute best for Delhi Capitals." Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting said, “The previous two seasons under Shreyas’ leadership have been incredible, and the results speak for themselves. This is a tremendous opportunity for young Rishabh, who is coming off successful stints against Australia and England which will no doubt give him the confidence needed to take on a new role that comes with a lot more responsibility. The coaching group is excited to work with him, and we can’t wait for the season to get started.” This will be Rishabh Pant’s debut as IPL captain. The 23-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman has captained Delhi’s state team in the past.

Delhi Capitals name Rishabh Pant as captain for IPL 2021

The long wait to be part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) ended for Tamil Nadu's Shahrukh Khan in the auction ahead of the 14th&nbsp;edition of the tournament when&nbsp;Punjab Kings signed the all-rounder for a whopping INR 5.25 crore. After missing out from the lucrative tournament in the previous season, Shahrukh, standing at 6’ 4'',&nbsp;took his game a&nbsp;notch&nbsp;higher and&nbsp;made a mark as one of the meanest finishers in the Indian domestic set-up.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After impressing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shahrukh Khan has set his on the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he will be seen donning the Punjab Kings jersey.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Really excited and looking forward to IPL. I have waited for this opportunity to come and now it is time to work hard and help Punjab Kings win matches. I can't wait to share the dressing room and the field with some of the biggest names in world cricket and I am sure I will learn a lot from everyone involved in the team,” Shahrukh Khan told WION in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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How can a video featuring Shahrukh Khan not be a HIT⁉️ 😍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</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://t.co/ApRKAFRyiw">pic.twitter.com/ApRKAFRyiw</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1376493149158182912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The auction table was set abuzz when Shahrukh's name popped up in the domestic all-rounder's list. The name, resembling Bollywood megastar and Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan was one of the factors&nbsp;to garner eyeballs. But those who kept a close eye on the matches in the Indian domestic circuit knew a storm was about to hit the auction in Chennai.&nbsp;

When Shahrukh's name was up in the auction, he was with his Tamil Nadu teammates on the bus for Vijay Hazare Trophy training.&nbsp;Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore were relentless in putting up their paddle up to INR 3.40 crore. After that, enter Punjab Kings who got the hard-hitting all-rounder in their squad after outbidding RCB.

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When you get a certain "Shahrukh Khan" in your side 😉😉 <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabKingsIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Vivo_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Vivo_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/z4te9w2EIZ">pic.twitter.com/z4te9w2EIZ</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1362371926514049027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“We were in the team bus and everyone there was very excited when my name popped up in the auction. But honestly, I couldn't enjoy it much as my phone was ringing without a break. We were preparing for the Vijay Hazare Trophy as well so the focus was mainly on it. But yes, it was a very happy and proud moment for me,” Shahrukh recalled.&nbsp;

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Turn up the volume and listen to the team's happiness for our bright ⭐<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/wkDfFbqGGP">pic.twitter.com/wkDfFbqGGP</a>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1362405593491804161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In the 2019-20 domestic season, Shahrukh Khan was given the role of a finisher by Tamil Nadu. The hunky all-rounder feels it is a role that changed his career graph. But how tough was it to get into the finisher mode?&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-officiate-in-t20-world-cup-and-ashes-is-my-next-target-nitin-menon-to-wion-369471" hreflang="en">To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION</a>

“I had opened the innings in Tamil Nadu Premier League and for Tamil Nadu as well because we didn't have an opener in our team and I did well. But I feel my physique, power and&nbsp;strength suit the role of a finisher more.&nbsp;I have worked hard to get into the finisher mode and still learning to master the craft. My game has developed more from&nbsp;the time I was given the role of a finisher. I enjoy the role and to win matches for my team thrills me,” the 25-year-old said.&nbsp;

“I have worked hard to get new strokes in my book. To play wide&nbsp;yorkers, hitting length deliveries, to play out of your skin. These are something you need to have as a modern-day batsman. It is not easy at all and requires plenty of hard work and patience,” he added.&nbsp;

Before the cricketing world could witness what Shahrukh Khan – the finisher – could do down the order with the willow, there were blood, sweat and tears to reach the place. While Tamil Nadu captain Dinesh Karthik and assistant coach&nbsp;R Prasanna ensured Shahrukh leaves no stone unturned to learn his new role in the team, it was&nbsp;Azhariah&nbsp;Prabhakar who&nbsp;kept the youngster on track since he was 15 years old.&nbsp;

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"I have been training under&nbsp;Azhariah&nbsp;Prabhakar since I was 15. I can talk to him about anything, he is like a guardian to me. He has been with me in every failure and success, and I can say I wouldn't have been here without him. He made sure I never diverted from my target.&nbsp;

“R Prasanna and I have had hours of discussions around my game. He made me the fearless cricketer I am at the moment.&nbsp;And Dinesh Karthik is like a father-figure to everyone in the Tamil Nadu squad. He has guided me in every situation and turned me into a finisher.&nbsp;One of the most important aspects he taught me was how to use the crease when you are in that hitting-mode. He gave me the confidence and trust to finish matches. I can't thank Dinesh enough for what he has done for me,” the all-rounder explained.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-punjab-kings-squad-built-keeping-every-challenge-in-mind-ceo-satish-menon-to-wion-367171" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Punjab Kings squad built keeping every challenge in mind: CEO Satish Menon to WION</a>

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Congratulations to Tamil Nadu boys Shahrukh Khan, Hari Nishanth &amp; Siddharth Manimaran! 
 
Will be great to see these young guns setting the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> on 🔥... hopefully not against KKR 😜<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/hbbQIkXa1G">pic.twitter.com/hbbQIkXa1G</a>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1362439213518516225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shahrukh's off-spin has also caught the eyes of many cricket fans and pundits. In the world of T20 cricket, it is a bonus to have a player with multiple skill-sets.&nbsp;While he is not a polished bowler yet, Sharukh is keen to learn more about bowling from Punjab Kings’&nbsp;Director&nbsp;of Cricket Operations Anil Kumble.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I was bowling medium pace when at Red Bull Campus Cricket but then switched to off-spin. Bowling is something I really want to improve as I gain experience at the top level. I feel it is important to have good skills in all three departments of the game. Anil sir (Anil Kumble) has told me that we will work on my bowling and I am looking forward to picking his brain and learn as much as I can,” Shahrukh said.&nbsp;

With quarantine over and Punjab Kings taking the field for practice and preparations for IPL 2021, Shahrukh Khan is excited about playing under the leadership of KL Rahul as he said the calm&nbsp;demeanour of the Punjab Kings skipper impresses him the most. He is also looking forward to sharing the dressing room and field with some of the biggest names in world cricket.&nbsp;

“The squad looks great. KL Rahul comes across as a very calm and composed guy and that is something I really like about him when I watch him play. He was superb as a captain last season in how he handled different situations. Punjab Kings have some big-name players and I am looking forward to learning from them. Being with them will definitely help me to improve my game,” Shahrukh said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a>

When asked what is his favourite format of the game, Shahrukh quipped: "Currently, I am enjoying T20 cricket but Test cricket has always been my favourite."

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IPL 20201 commences from April 9 with Punjab Kings playing their season opener against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 in Chennai.&nbsp;

The long wait to be part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) ended for Tamil Nadu's Shahrukh Khan in the auction ahead of the 14th edition of the tournament when Punjab Kings signed the all-rounder for a whopping INR 5.

The long wait to be part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) ended for Tamil Nadu's Shahrukh Khan in the auction ahead of the 14th edition of the tournament when Punjab Kings signed the all-rounder for a whopping INR 5.25 crore. After missing out from the lucrative tournament in the previous season, Shahrukh, standing at 6’ 4'', took his game a notch higher and made a mark as one of the meanest finishers in the Indian domestic set-up. After impressing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shahrukh Khan has set his on the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he will be seen donning the Punjab Kings jersey. “Really excited and looking forward to IPL. I have waited for this opportunity to come and now it is time to work hard and help Punjab Kings win matches. I can't wait to share the dressing room and the field with some of the biggest names in world cricket and I am sure I will learn a lot from everyone involved in the team,” Shahrukh Khan told WION in an exclusive interview. How can a video featuring Shahrukh Khan not be a HIT⁉️ 😍#IPL2020 #SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/ApRKAFRyiw — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) March 29, 2021 × The auction table was set abuzz when Shahrukh's name popped up in the domestic all-rounder's list. The name, resembling Bollywood megastar and Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan was one of the factors to garner eyeballs. But those who kept a close eye on the matches in the Indian domestic circuit knew a storm was about to hit the auction in Chennai. When Shahrukh's name was up in the auction, he was with his Tamil Nadu teammates on the bus for Vijay Hazare Trophy training. Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore were relentless in putting up their paddle up to INR 3.40 crore. After that, enter Punjab Kings who got the hard-hitting all-rounder in their squad after outbidding RCB. When you get a certain "Shahrukh Khan" in your side 😉😉 @PunjabKingsIPL @Vivo_India #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/z4te9w2EIZ — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) February 18, 2021 × “We were in the team bus and everyone there was very excited when my name popped up in the auction. But honestly, I couldn't enjoy it much as my phone was ringing without a break. We were preparing for the Vijay Hazare Trophy as well so the focus was mainly on it. But yes, it was a very happy and proud moment for me,” Shahrukh recalled. Turn up the volume and listen to the team's happiness for our bright ⭐#IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/wkDfFbqGGP — DK (@DineshKarthik) February 18, 2021 × In the 2019-20 domestic season, Shahrukh Khan was given the role of a finisher by Tamil Nadu. The hunky all-rounder feels it is a role that changed his career graph. But how tough was it to get into the finisher mode? ALSO READ: To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION “I had opened the innings in Tamil Nadu Premier League and for Tamil Nadu as well because we didn't have an opener in our team and I did well. But I feel my physique, power and strength suit the role of a finisher more. I have worked hard to get into the finisher mode and still learning to master the craft. My game has developed more from the time I was given the role of a finisher. I enjoy the role and to win matches for my team thrills me,” the 25-year-old said. “I have worked hard to get new strokes in my book. To play wide yorkers, hitting length deliveries, to play out of your skin. These are something you need to have as a modern-day batsman. It is not easy at all and requires plenty of hard work and patience,” he added. Before the cricketing world could witness what Shahrukh Khan – the finisher – could do down the order with the willow, there were blood, sweat and tears to reach the place. While Tamil Nadu captain Dinesh Karthik and assistant coach R Prasanna ensured Shahrukh leaves no stone unturned to learn his new role in the team, it was Azhariah Prabhakar who kept the youngster on track since he was 15 years old. "I have been training under Azhariah Prabhakar since I was 15. I can talk to him about anything, he is like a guardian to me. He has been with me in every failure and success, and I can say I wouldn't have been here without him. He made sure I never diverted from my target. “R Prasanna and I have had hours of discussions around my game. He made me the fearless cricketer I am at the moment. And Dinesh Karthik is like a father-figure to everyone in the Tamil Nadu squad. He has guided me in every situation and turned me into a finisher. One of the most important aspects he taught me was how to use the crease when you are in that hitting-mode. He gave me the confidence and trust to finish matches. I can't thank Dinesh enough for what he has done for me,” the all-rounder explained. ALSO READ: Exclusive: Punjab Kings squad built keeping every challenge in mind: CEO Satish Menon to WION Congratulations to Tamil Nadu boys Shahrukh Khan, Hari Nishanth & Siddharth Manimaran! Will be great to see these young guns setting the #IPL2021 on 🔥... hopefully not against KKR 😜#IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/hbbQIkXa1G — DK (@DineshKarthik) February 18, 2021 × Shahrukh's off-spin has also caught the eyes of many cricket fans and pundits. In the world of T20 cricket, it is a bonus to have a player with multiple skill-sets. While he is not a polished bowler yet, Sharukh is keen to learn more about bowling from Punjab Kings’ Director of Cricket Operations Anil Kumble. “I was bowling medium pace when at Red Bull Campus Cricket but then switched to off-spin. Bowling is something I really want to improve as I gain experience at the top level. I feel it is important to have good skills in all three departments of the game. Anil sir (Anil Kumble) has told me that we will work on my bowling and I am looking forward to picking his brain and learn as much as I can,” Shahrukh said. With quarantine over and Punjab Kings taking the field for practice and preparations for IPL 2021, Shahrukh Khan is excited about playing under the leadership of KL Rahul as he said the calm demeanour of the Punjab Kings skipper impresses him the most. He is also looking forward to sharing the dressing room and field with some of the biggest names in world cricket. “The squad looks great. KL Rahul comes across as a very calm and composed guy and that is something I really like about him when I watch him play. He was superb as a captain last season in how he handled different situations. Punjab Kings have some big-name players and I am looking forward to learning from them. Being with them will definitely help me to improve my game,” Shahrukh said. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom When asked what is his favourite format of the game, Shahrukh quipped: "Currently, I am enjoying T20 cricket but Test cricket has always been my favourite." View this post on Instagram A post shared by sharukhKhan🏏 (@shahrukhkhan.35) × IPL 20201 commences from April 9 with Punjab Kings playing their season opener against Rajasthan Royals on April 12 in Chennai.

Exclusive: 'Waited for this opportunity' - Shahrukh Khan aims to make it big for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th&nbsp;edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9. Gavaskar&nbsp;pointed out that the Mumbai Indians players have been in a rich run of form in the build-up to the IPL 2021 while adding the five-time champions would be a hard team to beat.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma will look to become the first skipper in IPL history to pull off a hat-trick of IPL trophy wins after lifting the coveted trophy in 2019 and 2020.&nbsp;

The likes of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Pandya brothers were in their element during the recently concluded T20I and ODI series against England.&nbsp;

"I think Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat. We have seen their players coming to form. Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, the way they batted. Mumbai Indian players who took part in this T20I series and ODI series have shown they are in good form," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

"The way Hardik Pandya has come to the party not just for Mumbai Indians, it was important for Indian cricket to see him bowl 9 overs. It means he is ready to play 9 overs. It (the World Test Championship final) is going to be in June, there is still time for that but the way he has come back is very good for Mumbai and Indian cricket," Gavaskar added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, all of the Mumbai Indians players who were involved in the India-England series have joined the franchise and have started gearing up for the lucrative T20 tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-virat-kohli-to-join-royal-challengers-bangalore-squad-in-chennai-on-april-1-374120" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1</a>

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) locking horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener.&nbsp;

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Mumbai Indians to make a hat-trick of Indian Premier League (IPL) title wins in the upcoming 14th edition of the T20 tournament, scheduled to start from April 9. Gavaskar pointed out that the Mumbai Indians players have been in a rich run of form in the build-up to the IPL 2021 while adding the five-time champions would be a hard team to beat. Rohit Sharma will look to become the first skipper in IPL history to pull off a hat-trick of IPL trophy wins after lifting the coveted trophy in 2019 and 2020. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan and Pandya brothers were in their element during the recently concluded T20I and ODI series against England. "I think Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat. We have seen their players coming to form. Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, the way they batted. Mumbai Indian players who took part in this T20I series and ODI series have shown they are in good form," Gavaskar told Star Sports. TRENDING: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat "The way Hardik Pandya has come to the party not just for Mumbai Indians, it was important for Indian cricket to see him bowl 9 overs. It means he is ready to play 9 overs. It (the World Test Championship final) is going to be in June, there is still time for that but the way he has come back is very good for Mumbai and Indian cricket," Gavaskar added. Meanwhile, all of the Mumbai Indians players who were involved in the India-England series have joined the franchise and have started gearing up for the lucrative T20 tournament. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1 The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) locking horns with Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener.

Mumbai Indians will be hard to beat in IPL 2021, says Sunil Gavaskar

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai. Kohli would need to undergo the mandatory one-week-long quarantine put in place as part of IPL SOPs&nbsp;after the Indian skipper exited the bio-secure bubble in Pune following India’s ODI series against England.&nbsp;

RCB will play their first phase of IPL 2021 matches, including the season opener on April 9 against defending champions Mumbai Indians, in Chennai.&nbsp;

Kohli has been part of bio-secure bubbles since the last IPL. While he exited it during India’s Test series against Australia to be with his wife Anushka Sharma for the birth of their first child, Kohli was back in the bubble for the entire home tour against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-thisara-perera-smashes-6-sixes-becomes-first-sri-lankan-to-achieve-the-iconic-feat-374099" hreflang="en">Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat</a>

The hectic schedule comes into question again as India will enter another bio-bubble soon after IPL 2021 for the final of the ICC World Test Championship in England in June. The WTC final will be followed by a five-Test series in England. The Men in Blue would then engage for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November in India.&nbsp;

Kohli, on Sunday, highlighted the hectic scheduling while citing players mental health as they are moving from one bubble to another amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in bubbles for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-to-undergo-shoulder-surgery-on-april-8-374083" hreflang="en">Shreyas Iyer to undergo shoulder surgery on April 8</a>

"Sometimes you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL."&nbsp;

The likes of&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal and Mohammed Siraj would be available to train for RCB from Tuesday. The majority of the RCB squad had reached Chennai last week including team director Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar. AB de Villiers also arrived in Chennai at the weekend.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 commences from April 9.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai.

Virat Kohli is set to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on April 1, two days after the team commences their camp in Chennai. Kohli would need to undergo the mandatory one-week-long quarantine put in place as part of IPL SOPs after the Indian skipper exited the bio-secure bubble in Pune following India’s ODI series against England. RCB will play their first phase of IPL 2021 matches, including the season opener on April 9 against defending champions Mumbai Indians, in Chennai. Kohli has been part of bio-secure bubbles since the last IPL. While he exited it during India’s Test series against Australia to be with his wife Anushka Sharma for the birth of their first child, Kohli was back in the bubble for the entire home tour against England. ALSO READ: Watch: Thisara Perera smashes 6 sixes, becomes first Sri Lankan to achieve the iconic feat The hectic schedule comes into question again as India will enter another bio-bubble soon after IPL 2021 for the final of the ICC World Test Championship in England in June. The WTC final will be followed by a five-Test series in England. The Men in Blue would then engage for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November in India. Kohli, on Sunday, highlighted the hectic scheduling while citing players mental health as they are moving from one bubble to another amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in bubbles for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength” ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer to undergo shoulder surgery on April 8 "Sometimes you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL." The likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Mohammed Siraj would be available to train for RCB from Tuesday. The majority of the RCB squad had reached Chennai last week including team director Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar. AB de Villiers also arrived in Chennai at the weekend. IPL 2021 commences from April 9.

IPL 2021: Virat Kohli to join Royal Challengers Bangalore squad in Chennai on April 1

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned&nbsp;that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as&nbsp;they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has been vocal about hectic scheduling amid stringent restrictions due to the virus, again raised&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;following the completion of the three-match ODI series which India won 2-1 in Pune on Sunday.&nbsp;

Players from both India and England moved on immediately to join their respective IPL 2021 squads and will again have to stay within the limits of the IPL “bubble”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in 'bubbles' for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said.&nbsp;

"You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength.&nbsp;Some times&nbsp;you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change.&nbsp;

"I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL."&nbsp;

Since the restart of cricket in August 2020, international players have been restricted to staying inside bio-secure bubbles since August with small breaks.&nbsp;

From September to January, Indian players went through the strictest quarantine and bio-bubble rules in the delayed IPL 2020 in UAE followed by India’s tour of Australia. The Indian players had a short break between the end of Australia&nbsp;seres&nbsp;and the start of England series, which comprised of four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

England’s much-talked-about rest and rotate policy made sure players got rest during their three months touring Sri Lanka, where they played two Tests, and India.&nbsp;

England players including Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (both Rajasthan Royals), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Sunday's batting hero Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings) are staying on to join the IPL.&nbsp;

Both Buttler and Bairstow have said that they have “enough” left in their batteries to play the IPL 2021 before going back to the international calendar and gear up for T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later this year.&nbsp;

"It's been great that everyone's health has been really looked after and whenever it's possible to get out of the 'bubble' and back in," said Buttler, who stood in as captain for injured Eoin Morgan in the last two one-day internationals.

"So we are all very thankful for that to help with those situations and also it's about how we plan moving forward. That's going to be part of player welfare."

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Indian captain Virat Kohli has warned that players are suffering after staying months inside bio-secure bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic as they head into the highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli, who has been vocal about hectic scheduling amid stringent restrictions due to the virus, again raised concerns following the completion of the three-match ODI series which India won 2-1 in Pune on Sunday. Players from both India and England moved on immediately to join their respective IPL 2021 squads and will again have to stay within the limits of the IPL “bubble”. "Scheduling needs to be looked at in future, because playing in 'bubbles' for so long, two to three months, is going to be very, very difficult going forward," Kohli said. "You can't expect everyone to be at the same level of mental strength. Some times you do get cooked and you do feel like a bit of a change. "I am sure things will be discussed and things will change in the future as well. "But a different tournament, it brings fresh challenges heading into the IPL." Since the restart of cricket in August 2020, international players have been restricted to staying inside bio-secure bubbles since August with small breaks. From September to January, Indian players went through the strictest quarantine and bio-bubble rules in the delayed IPL 2020 in UAE followed by India’s tour of Australia. The Indian players had a short break between the end of Australia seres and the start of England series, which comprised of four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs. England’s much-talked-about rest and rotate policy made sure players got rest during their three months touring Sri Lanka, where they played two Tests, and India. England players including Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (both Rajasthan Royals), Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Sunday's batting hero Sam Curran (Chennai Super Kings) are staying on to join the IPL. Both Buttler and Bairstow have said that they have “enough” left in their batteries to play the IPL 2021 before going back to the international calendar and gear up for T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India later this year. "It's been great that everyone's health has been really looked after and whenever it's possible to get out of the 'bubble' and back in," said Buttler, who stood in as captain for injured Eoin Morgan in the last two one-day internationals. "So we are all very thankful for that to help with those situations and also it's about how we plan moving forward. That's going to be part of player welfare."

'You can't expect everyone...': Virat Kohli warns players 'cooked' in bubble life ahead of IPL 2021

Indian Premier League franchise Delhi Capitals have appointed former India wicketkeeper Ajay Ratra as the team’s Assistant Coach for the upcoming season, the team's press release read on Sunday.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-who-will-captain-delhi-capitals-in-absence-of-shreyas-iyer-check-the-list-of-options-372866" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options</a>

The 39-year-old has recently managed Assam in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Former India player has been a coach for Punjab too. Ratra was part of the Indian's Women's Cricket Team during camps and worked as a Fielding &amp; Wicketkeeping Coach.&nbsp;

This will be his first-ever stint in the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

On his appointment, Ratra said, “I am honoured to join Delhi Capitals as Assistant Coach. This is a very exciting team to work with, abundant with talent. I can't wait to meet the team and contribute to its success. I am grateful to the Delhi Capitals management for giving me this wonderful opportunity.”

“We would like to welcome Ajay Ratra to the Delhi Capitals family," said CEO Vinod Bisht, on the latest development. “His experience, as player and coach will be invaluable, as we look to take the franchise from strength to strength. We are excited to have him on board, and wish him all the very best for the upcoming season."

Ajay Ratra has featured in six Tests and 12 ODIs for Team India. He made history in 2002 when he became the youngest wicketkeeper to score a Test hundred, and the second Indian wicketkeeper to score a century overseas. He was just 20 years old.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals will be coached by Ricky Ponting. Ajay Ratra will join Ponting, Mohammad Kaif, Pravin Amre and James Hopes in the coaching staff.

Indian Premier League franchise Delhi Capitals have appointed former India wicketkeeper Ajay Ratra as the team’s Assistant Coach for the upcoming season, the team's press release read on Sunday.

Indian Premier League franchise Delhi Capitals have appointed former India wicketkeeper Ajay Ratra as the team’s Assistant Coach for the upcoming season, the team's press release read on Sunday. IN PICS| IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options The 39-year-old has recently managed Assam in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Former India player has been a coach for Punjab too. Ratra was part of the Indian's Women's Cricket Team during camps and worked as a Fielding & Wicketkeeping Coach. This will be his first-ever stint in the Indian Premier League. On his appointment, Ratra said, “I am honoured to join Delhi Capitals as Assistant Coach. This is a very exciting team to work with, abundant with talent. I can't wait to meet the team and contribute to its success. I am grateful to the Delhi Capitals management for giving me this wonderful opportunity.” “We would like to welcome Ajay Ratra to the Delhi Capitals family," said CEO Vinod Bisht, on the latest development. “His experience, as player and coach will be invaluable, as we look to take the franchise from strength to strength. We are excited to have him on board, and wish him all the very best for the upcoming season." Ajay Ratra has featured in six Tests and 12 ODIs for Team India. He made history in 2002 when he became the youngest wicketkeeper to score a Test hundred, and the second Indian wicketkeeper to score a century overseas. He was just 20 years old. Delhi Capitals will be coached by Ricky Ponting. Ajay Ratra will join Ponting, Mohammad Kaif, Pravin Amre and James Hopes in the coaching staff.

IPL 2021- 'Honoured': Ajay Ratra joins Delhi Capitals as Assistant Coach

Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) Director of Cricket, Mike Hesson has said that star player Ab de Villiers will be a real wicket-keeping option for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the inclusion of Mohammed&nbsp;Azharuddeen, KS Bharat and Finn Allen, RCB have a plethora of option when it comes to wicket-keeping duties but whenever de Villiers has kept wickets for the franchise, it has provided a good balance to the outfit.&nbsp;The former South Africa captain had donned the gloves in a few IPL 2020 matches as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hesson&nbsp;said that&nbsp;de Villiers is expected to keep for a few matches for RCB in IPL 2021 but refused to commit a name for the wicket-keeping duties for the entire season.&nbsp;

“AB de Villiers donned the wicketkeeping gloves in a few matches last year and he is expected to do the same this year if it fixes the balance of the playing XI," said the former New Zealand cricket coach in a video posted by the official Twitter handle of RCB.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-who-will-captain-delhi-capitals-in-absence-of-shreyas-iyer-check-the-list-of-options-372866" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options</a>

"We were delighted with the fact that AB de Villiers loved wicketkeeping and he embraced it. He wanted to continue doing it, he is a real option. We now have a couple of other wicketkeeping options which is great. Mohammed&nbsp;Azharuddeen&nbsp;is a natural athlete with gloves and in the field. We also have KS Bharat. He is a natural keeper (and) gives us different options as well,” he added.&nbsp;

"We are not going to make the commitment now to you guys as to who will do what. We are really pleased with the options we have got and AB is certainly one of those.”&nbsp;

RCB's training camp will begin next week on Monday (March 29) ahead of their season opener against MI. De Villiers is scheduled to arrive in India on March 28.&nbsp;

"We have got players arriving all the way through till April 1. Finn Allen will be playing in T20I in New Zealand on April 1 and then he will come the day after... ABD arrives on 28," he earlier said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-both-of-them-vvs-laxman-on-suryakumar-yadav-ishan-kishan-for-t20i-world-cup-373288" hreflang="en">'I think both of them..': VVS Laxman on Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan for T20I World Cup</a>

"It is very different than the last year where we had everybody together for a long period of time on the back of a period where the guys had not trained or played. So, this time it is different, we got players playing international cricket over here and overseas and domestic cricket up until a handful of days ago. So, we had to prepare in slightly different ways,” he added.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) Director of Cricket, Mike Hesson has said that star player Ab de Villiers will be a real wicket-keeping option for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.

Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) Director of Cricket, Mike Hesson has said that star player Ab de Villiers will be a real wicket-keeping option for the franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April 9. With the inclusion of Mohammed Azharuddeen, KS Bharat and Finn Allen, RCB have a plethora of option when it comes to wicket-keeping duties but whenever de Villiers has kept wickets for the franchise, it has provided a good balance to the outfit. The former South Africa captain had donned the gloves in a few IPL 2020 matches as well. Hesson said that de Villiers is expected to keep for a few matches for RCB in IPL 2021 but refused to commit a name for the wicket-keeping duties for the entire season. “AB de Villiers donned the wicketkeeping gloves in a few matches last year and he is expected to do the same this year if it fixes the balance of the playing XI," said the former New Zealand cricket coach in a video posted by the official Twitter handle of RCB. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options "We were delighted with the fact that AB de Villiers loved wicketkeeping and he embraced it. He wanted to continue doing it, he is a real option. We now have a couple of other wicketkeeping options which is great. Mohammed Azharuddeen is a natural athlete with gloves and in the field. We also have KS Bharat. He is a natural keeper (and) gives us different options as well,” he added. "We are not going to make the commitment now to you guys as to who will do what. We are really pleased with the options we have got and AB is certainly one of those.” RCB's training camp will begin next week on Monday (March 29) ahead of their season opener against MI. De Villiers is scheduled to arrive in India on March 28. "We have got players arriving all the way through till April 1. Finn Allen will be playing in T20I in New Zealand on April 1 and then he will come the day after... ABD arrives on 28," he earlier said. ALSO READ: 'I think both of them..': VVS Laxman on Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan for T20I World Cup "It is very different than the last year where we had everybody together for a long period of time on the back of a period where the guys had not trained or played. So, this time it is different, we got players playing international cricket over here and overseas and domestic cricket up until a handful of days ago. So, we had to prepare in slightly different ways,” he added. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 commences from April 9.

Mike Hesson expects AB de Villiers to keep wickets for RCB in IPL 2021

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached Mumbai in a bid to start their preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April. CSK have their first round of matches in Mumbai and the MS Dhoni-led outfit would be raring to go in the T20 tournament. While&nbsp;all the players are expected to join the squad in the coming days, there is still unclarity regarding the fitness and availability of key all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CSK ended at the second-last position in IPL 2020 standings and would be looking to perform well in the 14th&nbsp;edition of the cash-rich tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jadeja has been out of action since the third Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground where he suffered a dislocated thumb after being struck by a&nbsp;brutal&nbsp;Mitchell Starc bouncer. The flamboyant all-rounder had to undergo surgery and was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia and missed the entire home series against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/animated-reactions-not-englands-way-of-operating-says-stokes-in-reference-to-kohlis-body-language-373136" hreflang="en">Animated reactions not England's way of operating, says Stokes in reference to Kohli's body language</a>

The southpaw has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru but there has been no update on his availability for IPL 2021. Even the CSK top brass is clueless about Jadeja's fitness with CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan saying&nbsp;the franchise doesn't know when he will join the team.&nbsp;

“We really don’t know when Jadeja is joining us. He has to get released by the National Cricket Academy (NCA),” Viswanathan said as quoted by&nbsp;InsideSport.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-who-will-captain-delhi-capitals-in-absence-of-shreyas-iyer-check-the-list-of-options-372866" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options</a>

Dhoni along with some of his CSK teammates had started practising in Chennai for the T20 tournament and now have moved the base to Mumbai where they will play as many as five matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Stephen and Pujara have reached Mumbai along with some other players. We will begin our camp there on March 27-28,” Viswanathan said.&nbsp;

IPL 2021 starts on April 9.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached Mumbai in a bid to start their preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached Mumbai in a bid to start their preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start from April. CSK have their first round of matches in Mumbai and the MS Dhoni-led outfit would be raring to go in the T20 tournament. While all the players are expected to join the squad in the coming days, there is still unclarity regarding the fitness and availability of key all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. CSK ended at the second-last position in IPL 2020 standings and would be looking to perform well in the 14th edition of the cash-rich tournament. Jadeja has been out of action since the third Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground where he suffered a dislocated thumb after being struck by a brutal Mitchell Starc bouncer. The flamboyant all-rounder had to undergo surgery and was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia and missed the entire home series against England. ALSO READ: Animated reactions not England's way of operating, says Stokes in reference to Kohli's body language The southpaw has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru but there has been no update on his availability for IPL 2021. Even the CSK top brass is clueless about Jadeja's fitness with CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan saying the franchise doesn't know when he will join the team. “We really don’t know when Jadeja is joining us. He has to get released by the National Cricket Academy (NCA),” Viswanathan said as quoted by InsideSport. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options Dhoni along with some of his CSK teammates had started practising in Chennai for the T20 tournament and now have moved the base to Mumbai where they will play as many as five matches. “Stephen and Pujara have reached Mumbai along with some other players. We will begin our camp there on March 27-28,” Viswanathan said. IPL 2021 starts on April 9.

'We really don’t know': Chennai Super Kings unclear about Ravindra Jadeja's availability for IPL 2021

Team India's KL Rahul on Thursday said that he was not surprised to see Prasidh Krishna hog the limelight with a sensational ODI debut as he heaped praise on the speedster from Karnataka. Rahul further said it is due to the Indian Premier League (IPL) that the youngsters coming into the Indian team are confident about their abilities to perform at the top level.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prasidh recorded the best bowling figures by an Indian bowler on debut in ODI as he scalped four wickets in the first ODI against England in Pune.&nbsp;

"Quite honestly, I am not surprised by what Prasidh did in the first ODI. I always knew that the next player coming out of Karnataka would be Prasidh. I have watched him play a lot of junior cricket, I watched him in the nets. He was someone who would catch your eye, he is a tall guy so he gets a lot of bounce from the wicket. Having played with him in the last two seasons, I&nbsp;realised&nbsp;he is a brave boy," said Rahul during a virtual press conference on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-odi-lean-patch-in-t20is-never-impacted-confidence-says-kl-rahul-373088" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG 2nd ODI: Lean patch in T20Is never impacted confidence, says KL Rahul</a>

"He has a great sense of the game, he is a very keen learner, he is very brave and comes in with a lot of aggression. As you saw in the first game, he was not shy to have a word or two with the batsmen, that is what I love about him. So happy to see him not being overwhelmed with the place he was in. The way he came back after the first three overs, he got a couple of wickets, these are the qualities that define a player and we are impressed with what he has done, if he works hard, he will be a great asset to the side," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian Premier League (IPL) has been the biggest platform for youngsters and lesser-known names to build their skill-sets and perform against the best in the world. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Answering a question on how he sees youngsters coming in and performing straight away, Rahul said: "I think a huge part is the IPL and the confidence these boys come in with. Whoever is coming in the team, it is not like they have performed in one season of the IPL or one season of first-class cricket. It has been two-three years of consistent performance wherever they play. Suryakumar, Ishan, and Krunal have said in their interviews that they have played against these guys at some point in the IPL and they know how they go about their games.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ecb-ready-to-offer-ipl-franchises-stakes-in-the-hundred-teams-to-lure-indian-cricketers-373048" hreflang="en">ECB ready to offer IPL franchises stakes in The Hundred teams to lure Indian cricketers</a>

"IPL performances have given them a lot of confidence and they have carried that confidence into international cricket. The team management has tried to give the youngsters confidence, I feel weird to call them youngsters having seen them for so many years, when they come in, we want all players to continue what they have been doing. It's important they stick to what they have been doing in the past and keep believing in their process," he added.&nbsp;

With a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, India would look to seal the series when they take the field for the second ODI against England on Friday in Pune.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Team India's KL Rahul on Thursday said that he was not surprised to see Prasidh Krishna hog the limelight with a sensational ODI debut as he heaped praise on the speedster from Karnataka.

Team India's KL Rahul on Thursday said that he was not surprised to see Prasidh Krishna hog the limelight with a sensational ODI debut as he heaped praise on the speedster from Karnataka. Rahul further said it is due to the Indian Premier League (IPL) that the youngsters coming into the Indian team are confident about their abilities to perform at the top level. Prasidh recorded the best bowling figures by an Indian bowler on debut in ODI as he scalped four wickets in the first ODI against England in Pune. "Quite honestly, I am not surprised by what Prasidh did in the first ODI. I always knew that the next player coming out of Karnataka would be Prasidh. I have watched him play a lot of junior cricket, I watched him in the nets. He was someone who would catch your eye, he is a tall guy so he gets a lot of bounce from the wicket. Having played with him in the last two seasons, I realised he is a brave boy," said Rahul during a virtual press conference on Thursday. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG 2nd ODI: Lean patch in T20Is never impacted confidence, says KL Rahul "He has a great sense of the game, he is a very keen learner, he is very brave and comes in with a lot of aggression. As you saw in the first game, he was not shy to have a word or two with the batsmen, that is what I love about him. So happy to see him not being overwhelmed with the place he was in. The way he came back after the first three overs, he got a couple of wickets, these are the qualities that define a player and we are impressed with what he has done, if he works hard, he will be a great asset to the side," he added. Indian Premier League (IPL) has been the biggest platform for youngsters and lesser-known names to build their skill-sets and perform against the best in the world. Answering a question on how he sees youngsters coming in and performing straight away, Rahul said: "I think a huge part is the IPL and the confidence these boys come in with. Whoever is coming in the team, it is not like they have performed in one season of the IPL or one season of first-class cricket. It has been two-three years of consistent performance wherever they play. Suryakumar, Ishan, and Krunal have said in their interviews that they have played against these guys at some point in the IPL and they know how they go about their games. ALSO READ: ECB ready to offer IPL franchises stakes in The Hundred teams to lure Indian cricketers "IPL performances have given them a lot of confidence and they have carried that confidence into international cricket. The team management has tried to give the youngsters confidence, I feel weird to call them youngsters having seen them for so many years, when they come in, we want all players to continue what they have been doing. It's important they stick to what they have been doing in the past and keep believing in their process," he added. With a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, India would look to seal the series when they take the field for the second ODI against England on Friday in Pune.

IPL has played a huge part: KL Rahul on youngsters in Team India brimming with confidence

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni on Wednesday unveiled the franchise's new jersey for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The former Indian captain unboxed the jersey as he shared the glimpse of the jersey with fans and followers. The latest CSK jersey for IPL 2021 also&nbsp;features a new camouflage shoulder straps as a tribute to the Indian armed forces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The new camouflage shoulder stripe means CSK have moved away from the red and blue stripes. Dhoni, who is an honorary&nbsp;Leiutenant&nbsp;Colonel with the Indian Territorial Army, will be seen donning the new jersey in IPL 2021, scheduled to start from April 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The new-look jersey features camouflage as a tribute to India’s armed forces and three stars atop the much-loved franchise’s logo," CSK said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It has been on our mind for some time now to find ways to raise awareness about the significant and selfless role of the armed forces. The camouflage is an appreciation of their service they are the true heroes,” CSK CEO KS Viswanathan said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-be-a-dream-come-true-kevin-pietersen-replies-to-pm-modi-backs-resumption-of-india-vs-pakistan-series-372894" hreflang="en">'Would be a dream come true': Kevin Pietersen replies to PM Modi, backs resumption of India vs Pakistan series</a>

The new CSK jersey has three starts above their logo, which highlights the three IPL titles they have won over the years.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a video shared by the franchise, Dhoni urged CSK fans to start the whistles as he gears up for&nbsp;IPL 2021. "Thala&nbsp;Dharisanam! #WearOnWhistleOn with the all new #Yellove!" CSK captioned the post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20i-series-a-possibility-with-a-six-day-window-in-2021-report-372785" hreflang="en">India vs Pakistan T20I series a possibility with a six-day window in 2021: Report</a>

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Thala Dharisanam! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WearOnWhistleOn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WearOnWhistleOn</a> with the all new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 💛🦁 
🛒 - <a href="https://t.co/qS3ZqqhgGe">https://t.co/qS3ZqqhgGe</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gpyu27aZfL">pic.twitter.com/Gpyu27aZfL</a>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1374725021612974085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Some of the CSK players including the likes of Dhoni, Ambati Rayudu and other domestic players have been training in Chennai. However, with the entire group set to unite, the franchise will be shifting their camp to Mumbai on March 26, where they will undergo quarantine before resuming training.&nbsp;

CSK have their first phases of IPL 2021 matches in Mumbai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni on Wednesday unveiled the franchise's new jersey for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The former Indian captain unboxed the jersey as he shared the glimpse of the jersey with fans and followers.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni on Wednesday unveiled the franchise's new jersey for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The former Indian captain unboxed the jersey as he shared the glimpse of the jersey with fans and followers. The latest CSK jersey for IPL 2021 also features a new camouflage shoulder straps as a tribute to the Indian armed forces. The new camouflage shoulder stripe means CSK have moved away from the red and blue stripes. Dhoni, who is an honorary Leiutenant Colonel with the Indian Territorial Army, will be seen donning the new jersey in IPL 2021, scheduled to start from April 9. "The new-look jersey features camouflage as a tribute to India’s armed forces and three stars atop the much-loved franchise’s logo," CSK said in a statement. “It has been on our mind for some time now to find ways to raise awareness about the significant and selfless role of the armed forces. The camouflage is an appreciation of their service they are the true heroes,” CSK CEO KS Viswanathan said. ALSO READ: 'Would be a dream come true': Kevin Pietersen replies to PM Modi, backs resumption of India vs Pakistan series The new CSK jersey has three starts above their logo, which highlights the three IPL titles they have won over the years. In a video shared by the franchise, Dhoni urged CSK fans to start the whistles as he gears up for IPL 2021. "Thala Dharisanam! #WearOnWhistleOn with the all new #Yellove!" CSK captioned the post. ALSO READ: India vs Pakistan T20I series a possibility with a six-day window in 2021: Report Thala Dharisanam! #WearOnWhistleOn with the all new #Yellove! #WhistlePodu 💛🦁 🛒 - https://t.co/qS3ZqqhgGe pic.twitter.com/Gpyu27aZfL — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 24, 2021 × Some of the CSK players including the likes of Dhoni, Ambati Rayudu and other domestic players have been training in Chennai. However, with the entire group set to unite, the franchise will be shifting their camp to Mumbai on March 26, where they will undergo quarantine before resuming training. CSK have their first phases of IPL 2021 matches in Mumbai.

CSK unveil new jersey for IPL 2021 with camouflage stripes as tribute to Indian armed forces

IPL 2021: Who will captain Delhi Capitals in absence of Shreyas Iyer? Check the list of options

Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa is set to miss the first match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) due to his marriage, RCB's director of cricket Mike Hesson has confirmed.&nbsp;

RCB is scheduled to lock horns with defending champions Mumbai Indians on&nbsp;April 9 in what will be the tournament opener in Chennai.&nbsp;

Zampa played just three matches for RCB in IPL 2020 and picked up two wickets. He has 200 wickets in 173 T20s.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We won't have our full contingent of overseas players available for the first game," Hesson said&nbsp;in a video posted by RCB on Twitter.&nbsp;"Adam Zampa is getting married. It's an important time for him and it's something that as a franchise we are aware of and we respect and we hope he has a great time. So when he joins us, once again he is going to be fresh and make a massive contribution to the rest of the tournament."&nbsp;

Most of RCB's overseas contingent will arrive in India in a scattered manner with regards to international commitments and&nbsp;NOCs&nbsp;from their respective boards. Upon landing in India, they will have to serve a mandatory seven-day quarantine period before joining their team.&nbsp;

"We have got players arriving all the way through till 1st of April, which is where we get the NOCs for some of the overseas players, particularly those who are playing," Hesson said. "Finn Allen is playing in T20s in New Zealand on the 1st of April; he will be coming the day after. We have got Australians who play up to 31st, likes of Daniel&nbsp;Sams, Kane Richardson. They then jump on a plane and come. ABD [de Villiers] arrives on 28th.&nbsp;

"I see it as a jigsaw puzzle, pulling everything together. Those guys who haven't been playing a huge amount of cricket, it [the quarantine period] will benefit them. Those who have, I think seven days will be great for them just to refresh"&nbsp;

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RCB’s IPL 2021 Camp and Player Availability 
 
When’s the pre-season camp starting? When are the overseas players arriving? On <a href="https://twitter.com/myntra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myntra</a> presents Bold Diaries, Mike Hesson leaves no room for speculations ahead of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VivoIPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VivoIPL2021</a>.<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://twitter.com/hashtag/Classof2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Classof2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/yxBFNYVwW8">pic.twitter.com/yxBFNYVwW8</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1374564125616013313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"So&nbsp;we have got players arriving at different times and we have to factor that into our preparation, which will include some practice games heading into our first game on 9th."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, RCB is set to commence their camp in Chennai on March 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have got some who have been in the bubble all the time, so they will come straight bubble to bubble transfer," Hesson explained. "From Pune, they will join us. We have got one or two who will have a day or two at home. They have been in a bubble for so long and need to freshen up. When they will be arriving, they obviously will have to take their seven-day quarantine.&nbsp;

"I see it as a jigsaw puzzle, pulling everything together. But really keen to get started. Those guys who haven't been playing a huge amount of cricket, it [the quarantine period] will benefit them. Those who have, I think seven days will be great for them just to refresh."&nbsp;

Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa is set to miss the first match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) due to his marriage, RCB's director of cricket Mike Hesson has confirmed.

Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa is set to miss the first match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) due to his marriage, RCB's director of cricket Mike Hesson has confirmed. RCB is scheduled to lock horns with defending champions Mumbai Indians on April 9 in what will be the tournament opener in Chennai. Zampa played just three matches for RCB in IPL 2020 and picked up two wickets. He has 200 wickets in 173 T20s. "We won't have our full contingent of overseas players available for the first game," Hesson said in a video posted by RCB on Twitter. "Adam Zampa is getting married. It's an important time for him and it's something that as a franchise we are aware of and we respect and we hope he has a great time. So when he joins us, once again he is going to be fresh and make a massive contribution to the rest of the tournament." Most of RCB's overseas contingent will arrive in India in a scattered manner with regards to international commitments and NOCs from their respective boards. Upon landing in India, they will have to serve a mandatory seven-day quarantine period before joining their team. "We have got players arriving all the way through till 1st of April, which is where we get the NOCs for some of the overseas players, particularly those who are playing," Hesson said. "Finn Allen is playing in T20s in New Zealand on the 1st of April; he will be coming the day after. We have got Australians who play up to 31st, likes of Daniel Sams, Kane Richardson. They then jump on a plane and come. ABD [de Villiers] arrives on 28th. "I see it as a jigsaw puzzle, pulling everything together. Those guys who haven't been playing a huge amount of cricket, it [the quarantine period] will benefit them. Those who have, I think seven days will be great for them just to refresh" RCB’s IPL 2021 Camp and Player Availability When’s the pre-season camp starting? When are the overseas players arriving? On @myntra presents Bold Diaries, Mike Hesson leaves no room for speculations ahead of #VivoIPL2021.#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #IPL2021 #Classof2021 pic.twitter.com/yxBFNYVwW8 — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) March 24, 2021 × "So we have got players arriving at different times and we have to factor that into our preparation, which will include some practice games heading into our first game on 9th." Meanwhile, RCB is set to commence their camp in Chennai on March 29. "We have got some who have been in the bubble all the time, so they will come straight bubble to bubble transfer," Hesson explained. "From Pune, they will join us. We have got one or two who will have a day or two at home. They have been in a bubble for so long and need to freshen up. When they will be arriving, they obviously will have to take their seven-day quarantine. "I see it as a jigsaw puzzle, pulling everything together. But really keen to get started. Those guys who haven't been playing a huge amount of cricket, it [the quarantine period] will benefit them. Those who have, I think seven days will be great for them just to refresh."

IPL 2021: Australia's Adam Zampa to miss RCB's first match vs Mumbai Indians

Virat Kohli on Monday explained why he will be opening the batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli had opened the batting with Rohit Sharma in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad as the duo stitched a 94-run partnership to put India in a strong position. India went on to defeat England to seal the T20I series 3-2 and the Men in Blue would be hoping to carry the good run of form in the ODIs against England, commencing Tuesday in Pune.&nbsp;

In IPL 2016, Kohli had opened the batting for RCB and ended up having his best-ever season in the T20 tournament.&nbsp;He had amassed 973 runs in 16 games at an average of 81.08 and a strike rate of 152.03. However, since then the swashbuckling batsman has continued to bat at number three&nbsp;in the cash-rich tournament.

"Firstly, the combination that plays on the field, the selectors do not have any role in that just like the management does not have any role in who gets selected. Secondly, as Rohit mentioned it was a strategic move, but we did enjoy batting together in the last T20I. We did enjoy our partnership and we saw the effects of us batting together and knowing what we can do to the opposition if we bat throughout. It is not a guarantee that it is going to be continued in the future," said Virat during a virtual press conference on Monday.&nbsp;

Kohli further said that he will open in IPL to understand his role as an opener while opening up a slot for in-form batsman Suryakumar Yadav.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-doubts-about-that-virat-kohli-confirms-indias-opening-pair-for-england-odis-372279" hreflang="en">'No doubts about that': Virat Kohli confirms India's opening pair for England ODIs</a>

"I am going to open in the IPL to keep all options open. I have batted at three, four and now I need to understand my role as an opener which I have done successfully in the past in T20 cricket so that I provide an option to open up a slot for someone like Surya, if he can continue to bat like that, I should be open to playing any kind of role that the team requires me to. We will have a conversation about this when we get closer to the T20 World Cup. It would be interesting to see how I go about my job as an opener in the IPL,"&nbsp;the Indian skipper added.&nbsp;

When asked whether ODIs have come out of nowhere in the year where the side is preparing for the T20 World Cup, Kohli said: "Look, it is a difficult one. Scheduling is something that is not in our control. For us, in international games, every game is important and every game has value. It is an opportunity to represent your team and for us, that remains the sole focus. Yes, along the way as I have said in the past, scheduling and workload are something everyone will be very aware of. In today's day and age, you never know when restrictions are going to come in and even in the future, you might have to continue playing in bubbles.&nbsp;

"It is important to consider how much cricket you are playing, it is just not about the physical side of things, it is mental side as well. Players need to be spoken to and consulted with all around. Otherwise, it is going to be a case of whoever can last plays and if not, some other player replaces that person and I do not think it is healthy for cricket system and culture going forward," said Kohli.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-all-depends-on-eoin-morgan-provides-update-on-jofra-archers-chances-of-playing-in-ipl-2021-372269" hreflang="en">'It all depends on...': Eoin Morgan provides update on Jofra Archer's chances of playing in IPL 2021</a>

After winning the Test and T20I series, India would be hoping to win the three-ODI series against world champions England in Pune starting from Tuesday (March 23).&nbsp;&nbsp;

India's&nbsp;ODI squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), KL Rahul (wicket-keeper),&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli on Monday explained why he will be opening the batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli had opened the batting with Rohit Sharma in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad as the duo stitched a 94-run partnership to put India in a strong position.

Virat Kohli on Monday explained why he will be opening the batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Kohli had opened the batting with Rohit Sharma in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad as the duo stitched a 94-run partnership to put India in a strong position. India went on to defeat England to seal the T20I series 3-2 and the Men in Blue would be hoping to carry the good run of form in the ODIs against England, commencing Tuesday in Pune. In IPL 2016, Kohli had opened the batting for RCB and ended up having his best-ever season in the T20 tournament. He had amassed 973 runs in 16 games at an average of 81.08 and a strike rate of 152.03. However, since then the swashbuckling batsman has continued to bat at number three in the cash-rich tournament. "Firstly, the combination that plays on the field, the selectors do not have any role in that just like the management does not have any role in who gets selected. Secondly, as Rohit mentioned it was a strategic move, but we did enjoy batting together in the last T20I. We did enjoy our partnership and we saw the effects of us batting together and knowing what we can do to the opposition if we bat throughout. It is not a guarantee that it is going to be continued in the future," said Virat during a virtual press conference on Monday. Kohli further said that he will open in IPL to understand his role as an opener while opening up a slot for in-form batsman Suryakumar Yadav. ALSO READ: 'No doubts about that': Virat Kohli confirms India's opening pair for England ODIs "I am going to open in the IPL to keep all options open. I have batted at three, four and now I need to understand my role as an opener which I have done successfully in the past in T20 cricket so that I provide an option to open up a slot for someone like Surya, if he can continue to bat like that, I should be open to playing any kind of role that the team requires me to. We will have a conversation about this when we get closer to the T20 World Cup. It would be interesting to see how I go about my job as an opener in the IPL," the Indian skipper added. When asked whether ODIs have come out of nowhere in the year where the side is preparing for the T20 World Cup, Kohli said: "Look, it is a difficult one. Scheduling is something that is not in our control. For us, in international games, every game is important and every game has value. It is an opportunity to represent your team and for us, that remains the sole focus. Yes, along the way as I have said in the past, scheduling and workload are something everyone will be very aware of. In today's day and age, you never know when restrictions are going to come in and even in the future, you might have to continue playing in bubbles. "It is important to consider how much cricket you are playing, it is just not about the physical side of things, it is mental side as well. Players need to be spoken to and consulted with all around. Otherwise, it is going to be a case of whoever can last plays and if not, some other player replaces that person and I do not think it is healthy for cricket system and culture going forward," said Kohli. ALSO READ: 'It all depends on...': Eoin Morgan provides update on Jofra Archer's chances of playing in IPL 2021 After winning the Test and T20I series, India would be hoping to win the three-ODI series against world champions England in Pune starting from Tuesday (March 23). India's ODI squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur.

Virat Kohli explains why he will be opening for RCB in IPL 2021

England captain Eoin Morgan on Monday said that the medical team would&nbsp;decide whether express speedster Jofra Archer would return to India to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Archer's elbow injury means that the pacer will miss the three-match ODI series against India with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) also ruling Archer out of the initial phase of IPL 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"To be honest, I cannot give a medical opinion. We know the situation with his elbow, it has progressively gotten worse. We know that it needs investigation, only time will tell. He has given his heart and soul to us since he has been involved so we will give him full attention in order to try and bring the best result possible," said Morgan during a virtual press conference&nbsp;on Monday.&nbsp;

"It all depends on the outcome of the investigation that the medical team will do (Archer's return to India for IPL 2021). They will determine the best rehabilitation&nbsp;programme&nbsp;coming back and we will go from there. We fully trust our medical&nbsp;team,&nbsp;they have outstanding regarding player welfare and player rehabilitation. The trust is always there," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-discuss-about-his-noc-for-ipl-bcbs-akram-khan-lashes-out-at-shakib-al-hasan-372258" hreflang="en">'Will discuss about his NOC for IPL': BCB's Akram Khan lashes out at Shakib Al Hasan</a>

Archer is returning to the UK for further investigation of his right elbow injury. According to Morgan, Archer's elbow injury aggravated over the course of the five-T20I series against India.&nbsp;

The England captain further said that the management didn't consider resting ace all-rounder Ben Stokes for the ODI&nbsp;series.&nbsp;

"Obviously, we have looked at various periods of rest for Ben. This isn't one of them, it would be when we get home potentially during this summer. It is dependent on circumstances regarding bio-secure bubbles and how often he sees his family.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/good-captaincy-from-virat-kohli-gautam-gambhir-mentions-turning-point-of-5th-t20i-vs-england-372251" hreflang="en">'Good captaincy from Virat Kohli...': Gautam Gambhir mentions 'turning point' of 5th T20I vs England</a>

"Given that we play three games in five days, if we rested Ben, it would have literally Ben was staying in his room in Pune or Mumbai, sitting around as IPL is&nbsp;near. Ben was very keen to play so it was not considered," he added.&nbsp;

The three-match ODI series between India and England is set to commence from March 23 in Pune.&nbsp;

England captain Eoin Morgan on Monday said that the medical team would decide whether express speedster Jofra Archer would return to India to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9.

England captain Eoin Morgan on Monday said that the medical team would decide whether express speedster Jofra Archer would return to India to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, scheduled to start on April 9. Archer's elbow injury means that the pacer will miss the three-match ODI series against India with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) also ruling Archer out of the initial phase of IPL 2021. "To be honest, I cannot give a medical opinion. We know the situation with his elbow, it has progressively gotten worse. We know that it needs investigation, only time will tell. He has given his heart and soul to us since he has been involved so we will give him full attention in order to try and bring the best result possible," said Morgan during a virtual press conference on Monday. "It all depends on the outcome of the investigation that the medical team will do (Archer's return to India for IPL 2021). They will determine the best rehabilitation programme coming back and we will go from there. We fully trust our medical team, they have outstanding regarding player welfare and player rehabilitation. The trust is always there," he added. ALSO READ: 'Will discuss about his NOC for IPL': BCB's Akram Khan lashes out at Shakib Al Hasan Archer is returning to the UK for further investigation of his right elbow injury. According to Morgan, Archer's elbow injury aggravated over the course of the five-T20I series against India. The England captain further said that the management didn't consider resting ace all-rounder Ben Stokes for the ODI series. "Obviously, we have looked at various periods of rest for Ben. This isn't one of them, it would be when we get home potentially during this summer. It is dependent on circumstances regarding bio-secure bubbles and how often he sees his family. ALSO READ: 'Good captaincy from Virat Kohli...': Gautam Gambhir mentions 'turning point' of 5th T20I vs England "Given that we play three games in five days, if we rested Ben, it would have literally Ben was staying in his room in Pune or Mumbai, sitting around as IPL is near. Ben was very keen to play so it was not considered," he added. The three-match ODI series between India and England is set to commence from March 23 in Pune.

'It all depends on...': Eoin Morgan provides update on Jofra Archer's chances of playing in IPL 2021

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have permitted Bubble to Bubble transfer for the upcoming Indian Premier League. BCCI released a document talking about Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and bio-secure protocols in the IPL.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-t20i-ishan-kishan-in-kl-rahul-out-predicted-xi-for-india-vs-england-371905" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 5th T20I- Ishan Kishan in? KL Rahul out?: Predicted XI for India vs England</a>

The BCCI said that the players involved in the India vs England series can directly join the bio-bubble without undergoing a quarantine period.

"Players coming directly from the Bubble created for India vs. England series may be permitted to join the franchise squad without serving the mandatory quarantine period, provided they satisfy the criteria of moving directly to the franchise team hotel either in the team bus or on a chartered flight (sic)," the BCCI stated in the document.&nbsp;

"If chartered flights are used then all protocols for crew members must be followed. If the travel arrangements are to the satisfaction of the BCCI Chief Medical Officer then such players will directly enter the franchise team Bubble without the need to serve a quarantine period or undergo an RT-PCR test," the note added.

"Prior intimation to IPL Chief Operating Officer is mandatory if the teams are exploring the above mentioned travel arrangements. If BCCI Chief Medical Officer is not satisfied with the strict adherence to the travel protocols by any of the players, all such players will have to quarantine for 7 days and return 3 negative RT-PCR results for tests taken on Day 2, Day 5 and the morning of Day 7 
before entering their respective franchise Bubble," it added.&nbsp;

A total of 12 Bubbles will be created. Eight of them will be for the franchise teams and support staff. Two bubbles will be for the match officials and match management teams and two more Bubbles for broadcast commentators and crew.

The Indian cricket board will be appointing four Bubble Integrity Managers with each franchise to keep a check on the breach of the Bio-Bubble. "Their job will be to report any Bio-secure Environment protocol breaches by members of the franchise team to the BCCI Chief Medical Officer," the note said.

The board also clarified that vaccination for the players involved will not be possible.&nbsp;

"The vaccination program against COVID-19 is underway in India and vaccines are currently being administered to the at-risk population viz. front-line workers, health care professionals, people over the age of 60 years and those between the ages of 45-59 years who have comorbidities like cardiac ailments, diabetes, cancer, etc. Until most of the population is vaccinated and immune to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, precautions will need to be taken to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the community," the note said.

The document released by the board also clarified the safety related to the cricket balls that will be used in the league. The saliva will still not be applied to the ball. It read: "New scientific study of cricket balls as potential vectors of the novel coronavirus showed the risk of transmission to be very low. If the cricket ball goes in the stands or outside the stadium, the 4th umpire will provide a replacement from the library of cricket balls. The previous ball when returned will be sanitized with alcohol based wipes and/or UV-C by the 4th umpire and placed in the library."

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have permitted Bubble to Bubble transfer for the upcoming Indian Premier League. BCCI released a document talking about Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and bio-secure protocols in the IPL.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have permitted Bubble to Bubble transfer for the upcoming Indian Premier League. BCCI released a document talking about Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and bio-secure protocols in the IPL. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 5th T20I- Ishan Kishan in? KL Rahul out?: Predicted XI for India vs England The BCCI said that the players involved in the India vs England series can directly join the bio-bubble without undergoing a quarantine period. "Players coming directly from the Bubble created for India vs. England series may be permitted to join the franchise squad without serving the mandatory quarantine period, provided they satisfy the criteria of moving directly to the franchise team hotel either in the team bus or on a chartered flight (sic)," the BCCI stated in the document. "If chartered flights are used then all protocols for crew members must be followed. If the travel arrangements are to the satisfaction of the BCCI Chief Medical Officer then such players will directly enter the franchise team Bubble without the need to serve a quarantine period or undergo an RT-PCR test," the note added. "Prior intimation to IPL Chief Operating Officer is mandatory if the teams are exploring the above mentioned travel arrangements. If BCCI Chief Medical Officer is not satisfied with the strict adherence to the travel protocols by any of the players, all such players will have to quarantine for 7 days and return 3 negative RT-PCR results for tests taken on Day 2, Day 5 and the morning of Day 7 before entering their respective franchise Bubble," it added. A total of 12 Bubbles will be created. Eight of them will be for the franchise teams and support staff. Two bubbles will be for the match officials and match management teams and two more Bubbles for broadcast commentators and crew. The Indian cricket board will be appointing four Bubble Integrity Managers with each franchise to keep a check on the breach of the Bio-Bubble. "Their job will be to report any Bio-secure Environment protocol breaches by members of the franchise team to the BCCI Chief Medical Officer," the note said. The board also clarified that vaccination for the players involved will not be possible. "The vaccination program against COVID-19 is underway in India and vaccines are currently being administered to the at-risk population viz. front-line workers, health care professionals, people over the age of 60 years and those between the ages of 45-59 years who have comorbidities like cardiac ailments, diabetes, cancer, etc. Until most of the population is vaccinated and immune to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, precautions will need to be taken to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the community," the note said. The document released by the board also clarified the safety related to the cricket balls that will be used in the league. The saliva will still not be applied to the ball. It read: "New scientific study of cricket balls as potential vectors of the novel coronavirus showed the risk of transmission to be very low. If the cricket ball goes in the stands or outside the stadium, the 4th umpire will provide a replacement from the library of cricket balls. The previous ball when returned will be sanitized with alcohol based wipes and/or UV-C by the 4th umpire and placed in the library."

Bubble to Bubble transfer and vaccination: BCCI releases COVID-19 protocols for upcoming IPL

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 set to commence from April 9 in India, let us take a look at some of the batting and bowling records from 13 editions of the T20 tournament.

IPL record-setters: Best batting and bowling stats from 13 seasons

JSW-GMR co-owned IPL franchise Delhi Capitals on Friday revealed the season’s official playing jersey in a unique ceremony in the presence of fans. The franchise, that believes&nbsp;in a ‘Fans First’ approach, handpicked some of its top fans and invited them over for a surprise to the Delhi Capitals office.

What followed was an unforgettable experience for the fans. After a heartfelt conversation with CEO Vinod Bisht about their favourite players and this season’s expectations, the fans witnessed the unveiling of the new jersey. These fans were the very first ones to see the new jersey, even before the players. Getting their hands on their very own customised DC jerseys left the fans elated, but the best was saved for the end. Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer and opener Shikhar Dhawan connected with them live over a video call, to catch a glimpse of the jersey and chat with the fans, making it a rare and precious experience.

"Delhi’s fans have stood by the team through ups and downs, so it is imperative for us to make them feel special,” said Chairman and co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi, on the occasion. “To take the fan experience to a different level, we also organised a photoshoot for the select fans in the new jersey, just like we do for the players. We are glad to have given them a memorable experience. It’s also a very proud moment for all of us at GMR to see the group’s logo on the arm. We cannot wait for the league to kick off, I wish the team all the very best.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-name-suryakumar-yadav-prasidh-krishna-for-england-odis-check-full-squad-371614" hreflang="en">India name Suryakumar Yadav, Prasidh Krishna for England ODIs - Check full squad</a>

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🚨 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NayiDilliKiNayiJersey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NayiDilliKiNayiJersey</a> 🚨 
 
That's it. That's the caption 😉 
 
Read more 👉🏻 <a href="https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6">https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/nG5PyvIjOF">pic.twitter.com/nG5PyvIjOF</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1372797484129394694?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The new Delhi Capitals jersey will continue to be dominated by blue (representing stability and confidence), and red (symbolising energy, passion &amp; aggression). The jersey is in a darker shade of blue, however, and graduates to lighter tones. In addition to the trademark tiger stripes across the jersey, red tiger claws on the sides makes the overall appeal extremely dynamic.

“The new jersey looks trendy, which is in sync with our team – a vibrant, young side ready to take on a challenge, and the tiger claws make a strong statement.” said Delhi Capitals Director &amp; Interim CEO Vinod Bisht, of the new jersey. “It was an invigorating experience for me to unveil the jersey with some of our diehard fans, who always bring such great emotional energy to the table. The high point of the event was the surprise video call from Shreyas and Shikhar. Such kind of direct engagement and access to players and management is something the fans really treasure. Going forward, it will be our endeavour to present more such opportunities to them.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumars-maiden-fifty-sets-up-indias-8-run-win-over-england-371525" hreflang="en">Suryakumar's maiden fifty sets up India's 8-run win over England</a>

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New season ➡️ New threads 💙 
 
Rate our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> jersey on a scale of 1️⃣ to ROAR 🔥 
 
Read more 👉🏻 <a href="https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6">https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NayiDilliKiNayiJersey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NayiDilliKiNayiJersey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShreyasIyer15?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShreyasIyer15</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDhawan25</a> <a href="https://t.co/idVCLl8Ivj">pic.twitter.com/idVCLl8Ivj</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1372801760218152962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This season, Delhi Capitals has joined hands with WROGN as its Official Lifestyle &amp; Merchandise Partner. Speaking of the association, Anjana Reddy, Founder &amp; CEO at USPL said, “The WROGN brand has always been synonymous with the words Young, Determined and Fierce - all qualities that Delhi Capitals, a team that has climbed up the IPL points table aggressively over the last two years, stands for. Today, DC is the right WROGN partner, and we are delighted to extend their on-field persona in the merchandise we are creating for the fans, who we know would love a piece of Delhi while cheering from their homes!”

JSW-GMR co-owned IPL franchise Delhi Capitals on Friday revealed the season’s official playing jersey in a unique ceremony in the presence of fans. The franchise, that believes in a ‘Fans First’ approach, handpicked some of its top fans and invited them over for a surprise to the Delhi Capitals office.

JSW-GMR co-owned IPL franchise Delhi Capitals on Friday revealed the season’s official playing jersey in a unique ceremony in the presence of fans. The franchise, that believes in a ‘Fans First’ approach, handpicked some of its top fans and invited them over for a surprise to the Delhi Capitals office. What followed was an unforgettable experience for the fans. After a heartfelt conversation with CEO Vinod Bisht about their favourite players and this season’s expectations, the fans witnessed the unveiling of the new jersey. These fans were the very first ones to see the new jersey, even before the players. Getting their hands on their very own customised DC jerseys left the fans elated, but the best was saved for the end. Delhi Capitals captain Shreyas Iyer and opener Shikhar Dhawan connected with them live over a video call, to catch a glimpse of the jersey and chat with the fans, making it a rare and precious experience. "Delhi’s fans have stood by the team through ups and downs, so it is imperative for us to make them feel special,” said Chairman and co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi, on the occasion. “To take the fan experience to a different level, we also organised a photoshoot for the select fans in the new jersey, just like we do for the players. We are glad to have given them a memorable experience. It’s also a very proud moment for all of us at GMR to see the group’s logo on the arm. We cannot wait for the league to kick off, I wish the team all the very best.” ALSO READ: India name Suryakumar Yadav, Prasidh Krishna for England ODIs - Check full squad 🚨 #NayiDilliKiNayiJersey 🚨 That's it. That's the caption 😉 Read more 👉🏻 https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/nG5PyvIjOF — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 19, 2021 × The new Delhi Capitals jersey will continue to be dominated by blue (representing stability and confidence), and red (symbolising energy, passion & aggression). The jersey is in a darker shade of blue, however, and graduates to lighter tones. In addition to the trademark tiger stripes across the jersey, red tiger claws on the sides makes the overall appeal extremely dynamic. “The new jersey looks trendy, which is in sync with our team – a vibrant, young side ready to take on a challenge, and the tiger claws make a strong statement.” said Delhi Capitals Director & Interim CEO Vinod Bisht, of the new jersey. “It was an invigorating experience for me to unveil the jersey with some of our diehard fans, who always bring such great emotional energy to the table. The high point of the event was the surprise video call from Shreyas and Shikhar. Such kind of direct engagement and access to players and management is something the fans really treasure. Going forward, it will be our endeavour to present more such opportunities to them.” ALSO READ: Suryakumar's maiden fifty sets up India's 8-run win over England New season ➡️ New threads 💙 Rate our #IPL2021 jersey on a scale of 1️⃣ to ROAR 🔥 Read more 👉🏻 https://t.co/VuEr4zi3p6#NayiDilliKiNayiJersey #YehHaiNayiDilli @RishabhPant17 @ShreyasIyer15 @SDhawan25 pic.twitter.com/idVCLl8Ivj — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) March 19, 2021 × This season, Delhi Capitals has joined hands with WROGN as its Official Lifestyle & Merchandise Partner. Speaking of the association, Anjana Reddy, Founder & CEO at USPL said, “The WROGN brand has always been synonymous with the words Young, Determined and Fierce - all qualities that Delhi Capitals, a team that has climbed up the IPL points table aggressively over the last two years, stands for. Today, DC is the right WROGN partner, and we are delighted to extend their on-field persona in the merchandise we are creating for the fans, who we know would love a piece of Delhi while cheering from their homes!”

Ahead of IPL 2021, Delhi Capitals launch new jersey

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