Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Rohit Sharma achieved yet another captaincy milestone as he led his side out against Delhi Capitals in their opening game of the ongoing IPL 2022 season on Sunday (March 27). Rohit surpassed former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Gautam Gambhir to become the third most experienced captain in the history of the IPL.

Rohit went past Gambhir in the elite list of players with most matches as captain. Rohit completed 130 matches as captain as he led Mumbai Indians out in their clash against Delhi Capitals on Sunday. Gambhir is now on the fourth spot in the elite list with 129 matches as captain in the cash-rich league.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni is on top of the list with 204 matches to his name as captain in the IPL. Dhoni had led CSK in all twelve seasons that they were part of the competition before stepping down from captaincy ahead of the ongoing 15th edition.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-delhi-capitals-becomes-second-team-ever-to-field-two-overseas-players-in-playing-xi-465992">&nbsp;Delhi Capitals becomes second team ever to field two overseas players in playing XI</a>

Dhoni handed over the CSK captaincy baton to Ravindra Jadeja and is part of IPL 2022 as a player. Dhoni had also led now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant in the 2016 season when CSK were banned from the IPL for two years. Dhoni has four titles to his name as captain and is one of the most successful captains in the league.

Most matches as captain in IPL:

MS Dhoni (204)

Virat Kohli (140)

Rohit Sharma (130)

Gautam Gambhir (129)

Rohit, who started leading Mumbai Indians from the 2013 season, is the captain with the most number of IPL titles as he has so far led his team to five title triumphs under his captaincy. While he has already gone past Gambhir in the list of players with most matches as captain, he will now aim to go past Kohli, who has stepped down as the captain of RCB.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-scripts-unique-record-with-his-brilliant-fifty-against-kolkata-knight-riders-in-ipl-2022-opener-465870">MS Dhoni scripts unique record with his brilliant fifty against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2022 opener</a>

Kohli has 140 matches to his name as captain of RCB with 64 wins and 69 losses. Rohit is likely to surpass Kohli in the ongoing season unless he has to miss a few matches due to an injury. However, the Hitman has a long way to go to overtake Dhoni on the elite list.

It might take Rohit another few seasons for Rohit to go past Dhoni and become the player with most matches as captain in IPL history.

&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Rohit Sharma achieved yet another captaincy milestone as he led his side out against Delhi Capitals in their opening game of the ongoing IPL 2022 season on Sunday (March 27).

Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Rohit Sharma achieved yet another captaincy milestone as he led his side out against Delhi Capitals in their opening game of the ongoing IPL 2022 season on Sunday (March 27). Rohit surpassed former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Gautam Gambhir to become the third most experienced captain in the history of the IPL. Rohit went past Gambhir in the elite list of players with most matches as captain. Rohit completed 130 matches as captain as he led Mumbai Indians out in their clash against Delhi Capitals on Sunday. Gambhir is now on the fourth spot in the elite list with 129 matches as captain in the cash-rich league. Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni is on top of the list with 204 matches to his name as captain in the IPL. Dhoni had led CSK in all twelve seasons that they were part of the competition before stepping down from captaincy ahead of the ongoing 15th edition. Also Read: Delhi Capitals becomes second team ever to field two overseas players in playing XI Dhoni handed over the CSK captaincy baton to Ravindra Jadeja and is part of IPL 2022 as a player. Dhoni had also led now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant in the 2016 season when CSK were banned from the IPL for two years. Dhoni has four titles to his name as captain and is one of the most successful captains in the league. Most matches as captain in IPL: MS Dhoni (204) Virat Kohli (140) Rohit Sharma (130) Gautam Gambhir (129) Rohit, who started leading Mumbai Indians from the 2013 season, is the captain with the most number of IPL titles as he has so far led his team to five title triumphs under his captaincy. While he has already gone past Gambhir in the list of players with most matches as captain, he will now aim to go past Kohli, who has stepped down as the captain of RCB. Also Read: MS Dhoni scripts unique record with his brilliant fifty against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2022 opener Kohli has 140 matches to his name as captain of RCB with 64 wins and 69 losses. Rohit is likely to surpass Kohli in the ongoing season unless he has to miss a few matches due to an injury. However, the Hitman has a long way to go to overtake Dhoni on the elite list. It might take Rohit another few seasons for Rohit to go past Dhoni and become the player with most matches as captain in IPL history.

IPL 2022: MI skipper Rohit Sharma goes past Gautam Gambhir in elite list, eyes Virat Kohli's record

Delhi Capitals went into their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter against Mumbai Indians on Sunday with just two foreigners available out of the seven they bought in the mega auction. New Zealand’s Tim Seifert and West Indies all-rounder Rovman Powell were the only foreign additions.<o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals are missing the services of David Warner and Mitchell Marsh as they are currently playing for Australia in Pakistan while South Africa fast bowler Andre Nortje is currently recovering from an injury. Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman and Lungi Ngidi are also not available.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-scripts-unique-record-with-his-brilliant-fifty-against-kolkata-knight-riders-in-ipl-2022-opener-465870" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni scripts unique record with brilliant fifty against KKR</a><o:p></o:p>

This was the second time in the history of the IPL when a team fielded just two overseas players in their playing XI. The first instance was way back in 2011 when Kolkata Knight Riders fielded Jacques Kallis and Eoin Morgan against Mumbai Indians in their first game of the season. <o:p></o:p>

Teams who fielded just two overseas players in the final XI in IPL<o:p></o:p>

KKR vs CSK Chennai 2011 (J Kallis, E Morgan)<o:p></o:p>

DC vs MI Mumbai BS 2022 (T Seifert, R Powell)<o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals handed a debut to a number of Indian players with Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shardul Thakur and Khaleel Ahmed all playing their first match for the franchise.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-no-rabada-bairstow-mayank-agarwal-led-punjab-kings-predicted-playing-xi-for-rcb-clash-465971" hreflang="en">No Rabada, Bairstow! Punjab Kings predicted playing XI for RCB clash</a><o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals won the toss and decided to field against Mumbai Indians. The Rohit Sharma-led side are also missing a number of their overseas players and also their star batsman Suryakumar Yadav.<o:p></o:p>

Mumbai Indians opted for Tim David, Daniel Sams, Tymal Mills and Kieron Pollard as their overseas options while Anmolpreet Singh and young Tilak Verma found a spot in the playing XI.<o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals went into their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter against Mumbai Indians on Sunday with just two foreigners available out of the seven they bought in the mega auction.

Delhi Capitals went into their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter against Mumbai Indians on Sunday with just two foreigners available out of the seven they bought in the mega auction. New Zealand’s Tim Seifert and West Indies all-rounder Rovman Powell were the only foreign additions. Delhi Capitals are missing the services of David Warner and Mitchell Marsh as they are currently playing for Australia in Pakistan while South Africa fast bowler Andre Nortje is currently recovering from an injury. Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman and Lungi Ngidi are also not available. Also read | MS Dhoni scripts unique record with brilliant fifty against KKR This was the second time in the history of the IPL when a team fielded just two overseas players in their playing XI. The first instance was way back in 2011 when Kolkata Knight Riders fielded Jacques Kallis and Eoin Morgan against Mumbai Indians in their first game of the season. Teams who fielded just two overseas players in the final XI in IPL KKR vs CSK Chennai 2011 (J Kallis, E Morgan) DC vs MI Mumbai BS 2022 (T Seifert, R Powell) Delhi Capitals handed a debut to a number of Indian players with Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shardul Thakur and Khaleel Ahmed all playing their first match for the franchise. Also read | No Rabada, Bairstow! Punjab Kings predicted playing XI for RCB clash Delhi Capitals won the toss and decided to field against Mumbai Indians. The Rohit Sharma-led side are also missing a number of their overseas players and also their star batsman Suryakumar Yadav. Mumbai Indians opted for Tim David, Daniel Sams, Tymal Mills and Kieron Pollard as their overseas options while Anmolpreet Singh and young Tilak Verma found a spot in the playing XI.

IPL 2022: Delhi Capitals becomes second team ever to field two overseas players in playing XI

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be hoping for a fresh start under the leadership of new skipper Faf du Plessis when they take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season at the Dy Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday (March 27). Both RCB and PBKS are yet to win their maiden IPL title and are heading into the 2022 season with new captains at the helm.

While Du Plessis has replaced Virat Kohli as the new captain of RCB, Mayank Agarwal will be leading Punjab Kings after being appointed as the full-time captain of the franchise following KL Rahul's exit. Both RCB and PBKS had&nbsp;revamped their respective squads ahead of the new season and will be looking to get off to a winning start.

Punjab had retained only two players ahead of the mega auction in the form of their skipper Mayank and young pacer Harpreet Brar. They went on to rope in the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone among others to build a formidable squad with a great mix of youth and experience.

However, both Bairstow and Rabada are set to miss the opener against RCB and PBKS will face a tricky situation in picking their four overseas players for the clash. While they will have Shikhar Dhawan opening the batting, Livingstone might bat at number four.

Odean Smith, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Benny Howell and Nathan Ellis are the only other overseas players available for selection for PBKS and it remains to be seen who will make the cut in the final XI.

RCB will rely heavily on Du Plessis to get them a good start at the top and are likely to head into the clash with a trio of all-rounders in the form of Wanindu Hasaranga, David Willey and Sherfane Rutherford, who can all be game-changers with the bat and the ball. Du Plessis is likely to open with Anuj Rawat with Kohli batting at no.3 in Glenn Maxwell's absence.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-will-virat-kohli-open-with-faf-du-plessis-rcbs-predicted-playing-xi-for-punjab-kings-clash-465897">IPL 2022: Will Virat Kohli open with Faf du Plessis? RCB's predicted playing XI for Punjab Kings clash</a>

Here is all you need to know about the RCB vs PBKS clash in IPL 2022:

Head to head:

Punjab Kings have a slight edge over Royal Challengers Bangalore when it comes to the head to head record between the two teams. Punjab have 15 wins to their name in 28 meetings against RCB compared to the latter's 13.

Stats:

Virat Kohli has the most runs against Punjab Kings among all batters in the current RCB squad. Kohli has 741 runs against the Punjab franchise and will look to extend his tally with a big knock on Sunday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-no-rabada-bairstow-mayank-agarwal-led-punjab-kings-predicted-playing-xi-for-rcb-clash-465971">IPL 2022: No Rabada, Bairstow! Mayank Agarwal-led Punjab Kings predicted playing XI for RCB clash</a>

Trivia:

In the last five encounters between the two teams, Punjab Kings have managed to beat RCB thrice. However, in the previous meeting between the two teams, RCB came out on top against Punjab by six runs.

Squads:

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Faf du Plessis(c), Virat Kohli, Anuj Rawat, Sherfane Rutherford, Dinesh Karthik(w), Mahipal Lomror, Wanindu Hasaranga, David Willey, Harshal Patel, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Siraj, Siddarth Kaul, Karn Sharma, Finn Allen, Suyash Prabhudessai, Luvnith Sisodia, Chama V Milind, Akash Deep, Aneeshwar Gautam

Punjab Kings: Mayank Agarwal(c), Shikhar Dhawan, Liam Livingstone, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shahrukh Khan, Prabhsimran Singh(w), Odean Smith, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Rahul Chahar, Sandeep Sharma, Rishi Dhawan, Benny Howell, Ishan Porel, Nathan Ellis, Raj Bawa, Baltej Singh, Writtick Chatterjee, Jitesh Sharma, Prerak Mankad, Atharva Taide, Vaibhav Arora, Ansh Patel

&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be hoping for a fresh start under the leadership of new skipper Faf du Plessis when they take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season at the Dy Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday (March 27).

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be hoping for a fresh start under the leadership of new skipper Faf du Plessis when they take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season at the Dy Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday (March 27). Both RCB and PBKS are yet to win their maiden IPL title and are heading into the 2022 season with new captains at the helm. While Du Plessis has replaced Virat Kohli as the new captain of RCB, Mayank Agarwal will be leading Punjab Kings after being appointed as the full-time captain of the franchise following KL Rahul's exit. Both RCB and PBKS had revamped their respective squads ahead of the new season and will be looking to get off to a winning start. Punjab had retained only two players ahead of the mega auction in the form of their skipper Mayank and young pacer Harpreet Brar. They went on to rope in the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone among others to build a formidable squad with a great mix of youth and experience. However, both Bairstow and Rabada are set to miss the opener against RCB and PBKS will face a tricky situation in picking their four overseas players for the clash. While they will have Shikhar Dhawan opening the batting, Livingstone might bat at number four. Odean Smith, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Benny Howell and Nathan Ellis are the only other overseas players available for selection for PBKS and it remains to be seen who will make the cut in the final XI. RCB will rely heavily on Du Plessis to get them a good start at the top and are likely to head into the clash with a trio of all-rounders in the form of Wanindu Hasaranga, David Willey and Sherfane Rutherford, who can all be game-changers with the bat and the ball. Du Plessis is likely to open with Anuj Rawat with Kohli batting at no.3 in Glenn Maxwell's absence. Also Read: IPL 2022: Will Virat Kohli open with Faf du Plessis? RCB's predicted playing XI for Punjab Kings clash Here is all you need to know about the RCB vs PBKS clash in IPL 2022: Head to head: Punjab Kings have a slight edge over Royal Challengers Bangalore when it comes to the head to head record between the two teams. Punjab have 15 wins to their name in 28 meetings against RCB compared to the latter's 13. Stats: Virat Kohli has the most runs against Punjab Kings among all batters in the current RCB squad. Kohli has 741 runs against the Punjab franchise and will look to extend his tally with a big knock on Sunday. Also Read: IPL 2022: No Rabada, Bairstow! Mayank Agarwal-led Punjab Kings predicted playing XI for RCB clash Trivia: In the last five encounters between the two teams, Punjab Kings have managed to beat RCB thrice. However, in the previous meeting between the two teams, RCB came out on top against Punjab by six runs. Squads: Royal Challengers Bangalore: Faf du Plessis(c), Virat Kohli, Anuj Rawat, Sherfane Rutherford, Dinesh Karthik(w), Mahipal Lomror, Wanindu Hasaranga, David Willey, Harshal Patel, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Siraj, Siddarth Kaul, Karn Sharma, Finn Allen, Suyash Prabhudessai, Luvnith Sisodia, Chama V Milind, Akash Deep, Aneeshwar Gautam Punjab Kings: Mayank Agarwal(c), Shikhar Dhawan, Liam Livingstone, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shahrukh Khan, Prabhsimran Singh(w), Odean Smith, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Rahul Chahar, Sandeep Sharma, Rishi Dhawan, Benny Howell, Ishan Porel, Nathan Ellis, Raj Bawa, Baltej Singh, Writtick Chatterjee, Jitesh Sharma, Prerak Mankad, Atharva Taide, Vaibhav Arora, Ansh Patel

IPL 2022: Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Punjab Kings - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

Punjab Kings will be looking to start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season on a high as they take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in their opening match in Mumbai on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

The franchise went into the auction with a huge budget as they retained just two players – Mayank Agarwal, who will be leading the side this year, and young bowler Arshdeep Singh.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-will-virat-kohli-open-with-faf-du-plessis-rcbs-predicted-playing-xi-for-punjab-kings-clash-465897" hreflang="en">Will Kohli open with Du Plessis? RCB's predicted playing XI vs PBKS</a><o:p></o:p>

However, their performance in the auction has quickly made them a favourite ahead of the season and although Punjab Kings will be missing two big money signings in England wicket-keeper batsman Jonny Bairstow and South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada, they currently boast of an impressive XI.<o:p></o:p>

Mayank Agarwal will be opening the batting for his side and he will be accompanied by the vastly experienced Shikhar Dhawan who will be looking to prove a point after being released by Delhi Capitals. The next two slots will go to two of the power hitters in the side – Liam Livingstone who is known for his destructive bowling and all-rounder Shahrukh Khan who costed them INR 9 crore.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-beat-india-in-last-ball-thriller-as-mithali-raj-co-crash-out-of-womens-world-cup-2022-465912">SA beat India in last-ball thriller to dump them out of Women's WC 2022</a><o:p></o:p>

With Bairstow not in the team for the match, Prabhsimran Singh is expected to keep wickets and in the middle order, he will be joined by Harpreet Brar and West Indies all-rounder Odean Smith.<o:p></o:p>

Nathan Ellis, Sandeep Sharma and Arshdeep Singh will most probably be the pace trio for Punjab Kings on the Mumbai Pitches while Rahul Chahar may find a place as their specialist spinner.<o:p></o:p>

Punjab Kings XI: Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Prabhsimran Singh, Odean Smith, Harpreet Brar, Nathan Ellis, Rahul Chahar, Sandeep Sharma, Arshdeep Singh<o:p></o:p>

Punjab Kings will be looking to start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season on a high as they take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in their opening match in Mumbai on Sunday.

Punjab Kings will be looking to start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season on a high as they take on Royal Challengers Bangalore in their opening match in Mumbai on Sunday. The franchise went into the auction with a huge budget as they retained just two players – Mayank Agarwal, who will be leading the side this year, and young bowler Arshdeep Singh. Also read | Will Kohli open with Du Plessis? RCB's predicted playing XI vs PBKS However, their performance in the auction has quickly made them a favourite ahead of the season and although Punjab Kings will be missing two big money signings in England wicket-keeper batsman Jonny Bairstow and South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada, they currently boast of an impressive XI. Mayank Agarwal will be opening the batting for his side and he will be accompanied by the vastly experienced Shikhar Dhawan who will be looking to prove a point after being released by Delhi Capitals. The next two slots will go to two of the power hitters in the side – Liam Livingstone who is known for his destructive bowling and all-rounder Shahrukh Khan who costed them INR 9 crore. Also read | SA beat India in last-ball thriller to dump them out of Women's WC 2022 With Bairstow not in the team for the match, Prabhsimran Singh is expected to keep wickets and in the middle order, he will be joined by Harpreet Brar and West Indies all-rounder Odean Smith. Nathan Ellis, Sandeep Sharma and Arshdeep Singh will most probably be the pace trio for Punjab Kings on the Mumbai Pitches while Rahul Chahar may find a place as their specialist spinner. Punjab Kings XI: Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal, Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Prabhsimran Singh, Odean Smith, Harpreet Brar, Nathan Ellis, Rahul Chahar, Sandeep Sharma, Arshdeep Singh

IPL 2022: No Rabada, Bairstow! Mayank Agarwal-led Punjab Kings predicted playing XI for RCB clash

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have witnessed a change in captaincy for the first time since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 as MS Dhoni passed over the baton to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja ahead of IPL 2022. Dhoni stepped down from captaincy earlier this week as Jadeja was handed over captaincy just a couple of days ahead of their opening game against Kolkata Knight Riders on Saturday (March 26).

Many had expected Dhoni to continue leading the side this year having been retained by the franchise ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction last month, however, the former CSK skipper once again sprung a surprise in his own style ahead of the season. However, the move was in the making for quite some time and Dhoni had discussed his decision to hand over the captaincy to Jadeja with CSK head coach Stephen Fleming last season.

After CSK's opening game of the ongoing IPL 2022 season against KKR on Saturday, Fleming opened up on the change in captaincy and revealed he spoke about it with Dhoni last year. Fleming also said Dhoni wanted to give Jadeja a clean slate as captain heading into the season so the timing of the decision was his own.

"We talked about it. It's been something MS and I talked about during the last season," Fleming said on Saturday.

"The timing was MS's call. I think it's been documented that he wanted to give Jadeja the clean slate going into the series so it was communicated with Mr. Srinivasan and conveyed to the team. We 100% respect that," added the CSK head coach.

Dhoni and Fleming enjoyed a great captain-coach relationship for CSK as they together took the franchise to greater heights. Fleming has been the head coach of the four-time champions since 2009 and together with Dhoni, he managed to formulate strategies and plans which have worked for the side over the years.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-scripts-unique-record-with-his-brilliant-fifty-against-kolkata-knight-riders-in-ipl-2022-opener-465870">MS Dhoni scripts unique record with his brilliant fifty against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2022 opener</a> 
&nbsp;

However, Fleming admitted the plans will now have to change a bit with Jadeja taking over captaincy and Dhoni no longer in charge of the team. He insisted having Dhoni still in the squad as a player and utilising his experience to groom Jadeja will be helpful for CSK.

"There's going to be a bit of a transition period as we develop the relationship with Jadeja and also have MS there so you don't just discard a player just because he doesn't have the captaincy tag. You develop the new captain and work with the experience we've got, and thankfully we've got quite a bit of that. It's a little bit of change, but we'll work through that nicely," said the CSK head coach.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dwayne-bravo-equals-lasith-malingas-all-time-record-becomes-joint-highest-wicket-taker-in-ipl-history-465852">Dwayne Bravo equals Lasith Malinga's all-time record, becomes joint highest wicket-taker in IPL history</a>

CSK made a shaky start to their IPL 2022 campaign under new captain Jadeja as they suffered a six-wicket defeat against KKR in their opening game of the season. In what was a shambolic batting performance, CSK managed to post a low-key total of only 131 runs at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai as KKR cruised to a comfortable win.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have witnessed a change in captaincy for the first time since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 as MS Dhoni passed over the baton to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja ahead of IPL 2022.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have witnessed a change in captaincy for the first time since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 as MS Dhoni passed over the baton to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja ahead of IPL 2022. Dhoni stepped down from captaincy earlier this week as Jadeja was handed over captaincy just a couple of days ahead of their opening game against Kolkata Knight Riders on Saturday (March 26). Many had expected Dhoni to continue leading the side this year having been retained by the franchise ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction last month, however, the former CSK skipper once again sprung a surprise in his own style ahead of the season. However, the move was in the making for quite some time and Dhoni had discussed his decision to hand over the captaincy to Jadeja with CSK head coach Stephen Fleming last season. After CSK's opening game of the ongoing IPL 2022 season against KKR on Saturday, Fleming opened up on the change in captaincy and revealed he spoke about it with Dhoni last year. Fleming also said Dhoni wanted to give Jadeja a clean slate as captain heading into the season so the timing of the decision was his own. "We talked about it. It's been something MS and I talked about during the last season," Fleming said on Saturday. "The timing was MS's call. I think it's been documented that he wanted to give Jadeja the clean slate going into the series so it was communicated with Mr. Srinivasan and conveyed to the team. We 100% respect that," added the CSK head coach. Dhoni and Fleming enjoyed a great captain-coach relationship for CSK as they together took the franchise to greater heights. Fleming has been the head coach of the four-time champions since 2009 and together with Dhoni, he managed to formulate strategies and plans which have worked for the side over the years. Also Read: MS Dhoni scripts unique record with his brilliant fifty against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2022 opener However, Fleming admitted the plans will now have to change a bit with Jadeja taking over captaincy and Dhoni no longer in charge of the team. He insisted having Dhoni still in the squad as a player and utilising his experience to groom Jadeja will be helpful for CSK. "There's going to be a bit of a transition period as we develop the relationship with Jadeja and also have MS there so you don't just discard a player just because he doesn't have the captaincy tag. You develop the new captain and work with the experience we've got, and thankfully we've got quite a bit of that. It's a little bit of change, but we'll work through that nicely," said the CSK head coach. Also Read: Dwayne Bravo equals Lasith Malinga's all-time record, becomes joint highest wicket-taker in IPL history CSK made a shaky start to their IPL 2022 campaign under new captain Jadeja as they suffered a six-wicket defeat against KKR in their opening game of the season. In what was a shambolic batting performance, CSK managed to post a low-key total of only 131 runs at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai as KKR cruised to a comfortable win.

MS Dhoni and I talked about it last season: Stephen Fleming on Ravindra Jadeja's appointment as CSK captain

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will embark on a new era under their new captain Faf du Plessis when they lock horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season on Sunday (March 27). RCB will take on PBKS at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai and will be hoping to get off to a winning start.

RCB are one of the six teams who have been part of all 15 seasons since the inception of the IPL in 2008 but are yet to win the league. RCB were a force to reckon with under former captain Kohli but failed to lift their maiden IPL title. Kohli led RCB in a total of 140 matches before stepping down as captain following the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year.

Kohli was replaced by veteran batter and former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis as the captain of the side. RCB roped in Du Plessis for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month after his stellar season for his former side Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last year. Du Plessis was the second-highest run-getter in IPL 2021 and played an instrumental role in CSK's memorable title-winning campaign.

RCB will be hoping for a change in fortunes under the leadership of Du Plessis, who is an experienced campaigner in the IPL and has won the trophy twice with CSK. Kohli will be playing his first game under Faf as a player against Punjab Kings on Sunday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-matthew-hayden-slammed-on-twitter-after-trash-comment-on-kkr-pacer-umesh-yadav-465877">IPL 2022: Matthew Hayden slammed on Twitter after 'trash' comment on KKR pacer Umesh Yadav</a>

While many have urged Kohli to open the innings with new skipper Du Plessis, the former captain is unlikely to bat on top of the order in the absence of all-rounder Glenn Maxwell as it leaves RCB thin in the middle-order. Du Plessis might open the batting with youngster Anuj Rawat with Kohli coming out at his usual no.3 spot.

Maxwell is likely to miss the first few games of the season for RCB and in his absence, Kohli will have to shoulder the run-scoring responsibilities in the middle-order. Dinesh Karthik will also have to play a key role for the franchise as a finisher. RCB paid huge money for Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga in the auction and he is likely to feature in the playing XI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dwayne-bravo-equals-lasith-malingas-all-time-record-becomes-joint-highest-wicket-taker-in-ipl-history-465852">Dwayne Bravo equals Lasith Malinga's all-time record, becomes joint highest wicket-taker in IPL history</a>

Along with Hasarnaga, RCB might also play two other overseas all-rounders in the form of Sherfane Rutherford and David Willey to further strengthen their bowling attack and bat deep. Harshal Patel will continue to lead the pace attack along with the likes of Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep.

RCB's predicted XI against Punjab Kings:

Faf du Plessis (c), Anuj Rawat, Virat Kohli, Mahipal Lomror, Sherfane Rutherford, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Wanindu Hasaranga, David Willey, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj,&nbsp;Akash Deep

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will embark on a new era under their new captain Faf du Plessis when they lock horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season on Sunday (March 27).

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will embark on a new era under their new captain Faf du Plessis when they lock horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season on Sunday (March 27). RCB will take on PBKS at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai and will be hoping to get off to a winning start. RCB are one of the six teams who have been part of all 15 seasons since the inception of the IPL in 2008 but are yet to win the league. RCB were a force to reckon with under former captain Kohli but failed to lift their maiden IPL title. Kohli led RCB in a total of 140 matches before stepping down as captain following the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. Kohli was replaced by veteran batter and former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis as the captain of the side. RCB roped in Du Plessis for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month after his stellar season for his former side Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last year. Du Plessis was the second-highest run-getter in IPL 2021 and played an instrumental role in CSK's memorable title-winning campaign. RCB will be hoping for a change in fortunes under the leadership of Du Plessis, who is an experienced campaigner in the IPL and has won the trophy twice with CSK. Kohli will be playing his first game under Faf as a player against Punjab Kings on Sunday. Also Read: IPL 2022: Matthew Hayden slammed on Twitter after 'trash' comment on KKR pacer Umesh Yadav While many have urged Kohli to open the innings with new skipper Du Plessis, the former captain is unlikely to bat on top of the order in the absence of all-rounder Glenn Maxwell as it leaves RCB thin in the middle-order. Du Plessis might open the batting with youngster Anuj Rawat with Kohli coming out at his usual no.3 spot. Maxwell is likely to miss the first few games of the season for RCB and in his absence, Kohli will have to shoulder the run-scoring responsibilities in the middle-order. Dinesh Karthik will also have to play a key role for the franchise as a finisher. RCB paid huge money for Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga in the auction and he is likely to feature in the playing XI. Also Read: Dwayne Bravo equals Lasith Malinga's all-time record, becomes joint highest wicket-taker in IPL history Along with Hasarnaga, RCB might also play two other overseas all-rounders in the form of Sherfane Rutherford and David Willey to further strengthen their bowling attack and bat deep. Harshal Patel will continue to lead the pace attack along with the likes of Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep. RCB's predicted XI against Punjab Kings: Faf du Plessis (c), Anuj Rawat, Virat Kohli, Mahipal Lomror, Sherfane Rutherford, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Wanindu Hasaranga, David Willey, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep

IPL 2022: Will Virat Kohli open with Faf du Plessis? RCB's predicted playing XI for Punjab Kings clash

Virat Kohli was seen catching up with MS Dhoni during a practice session in Mumbai ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) were training at the same venue where Kohli met Dhoni and the duo shared a heartwarming hug before having a long conversation.

As the entire league stage of the IPL 2022 is being played across four venues in Maharashtra, the franchises have been sharing their training grounds with each other. Kohli, who shares an impeccable bond with former India captain Dhoni, didn't miss out on the opportunity to catch up with him as RCB shared the ground with CSK on Friday.

A video of Kohli walking up to Dhoni and sharing a hug with him during the two teams'&nbsp;training sessions went viral on social media. RCB also took to Twitter to share pictures of the duo and wrote - "Just a couple of LEGENDS catching up at practice."

Watch video:

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Virat kohli wasn't Leaving Dhoni <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/4b71lqOYru">pic.twitter.com/4b71lqOYru</a>
— CSK Fans Army (@CSKFansArmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/CSKFansArmy/status/1507418596536098817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Just a couple of LEGENDS catching up at practice. <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/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mission2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mission2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli𓃵</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni𓃵</a> <a href="https://t.co/etvnf4SW7O">pic.twitter.com/etvnf4SW7O</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1507376585686798337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-kl-rahul-to-ruturaj-gaikwad-top-five-contenders-for-orange-cap-in-ipl-2022-464619">From KL Rahul to Ruturaj Gaikwad: Top five contenders for Orange Cap in IPL 2022</a>

Kohli and Dhoni shared the Indian dressing room for over a decade and were part of several memorable victories for India on the international stage. The duo was part of India's 2011 World Cup-winning campaign and the 2013 Champions Trophy triumph. Kohli had made his India debut under Dhoni's captaincy in 2008 and went on to become a great of the game under his leadership.

It was in 2015 that Kohli took over from Dhoni as India's Test captain before taking over the white-ball captaincy in 2017. While Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, Kohli is still an integral member of the Indian team across formats despite having given up captaincy across all formats of the game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ravi-shastri-has-his-say-on-virat-kohlis-batting-position-for-royal-challengers-bangalore-465542">IPL 2022: Ravi Shastri has his say on Virat Kohli's batting position for Royal Challengers Bangalore</a>

IPL 2022 will be the first instance where both Dhoni and Kohli will represent their respective franchises as players having given up captaincy. Dhoni recently stepped down as the captain of four-time IPL champions CSK to hand over the reins to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja while Kohli had already left RCB's captaincy last year.

While Dhoni will play under Jadeja, Kohli will be playing under RCB's new captain Faf du Plessis in the upcoming season.

Virat Kohli was seen catching up with MS Dhoni during a practice session in Mumbai ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) were training at the same venue where Kohli met Dhoni and the duo shared a heartwarming hug before having a long conversation.

Virat Kohli was seen catching up with MS Dhoni during a practice session in Mumbai ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) were training at the same venue where Kohli met Dhoni and the duo shared a heartwarming hug before having a long conversation. As the entire league stage of the IPL 2022 is being played across four venues in Maharashtra, the franchises have been sharing their training grounds with each other. Kohli, who shares an impeccable bond with former India captain Dhoni, didn't miss out on the opportunity to catch up with him as RCB shared the ground with CSK on Friday. A video of Kohli walking up to Dhoni and sharing a hug with him during the two teams' training sessions went viral on social media. RCB also took to Twitter to share pictures of the duo and wrote - "Just a couple of LEGENDS catching up at practice." Watch video: Virat kohli wasn't Leaving Dhoni #WhistlePodu | #IPL2022 pic.twitter.com/4b71lqOYru — CSK Fans Army (@CSKFansArmy) March 25, 2022 × Just a couple of LEGENDS catching up at practice. #PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #IPL2022 #Mission2022 #RCB #ViratKohli𓃵 #MSDhoni𓃵 pic.twitter.com/etvnf4SW7O — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) March 25, 2022 × Also Read: From KL Rahul to Ruturaj Gaikwad: Top five contenders for Orange Cap in IPL 2022 Kohli and Dhoni shared the Indian dressing room for over a decade and were part of several memorable victories for India on the international stage. The duo was part of India's 2011 World Cup-winning campaign and the 2013 Champions Trophy triumph. Kohli had made his India debut under Dhoni's captaincy in 2008 and went on to become a great of the game under his leadership. It was in 2015 that Kohli took over from Dhoni as India's Test captain before taking over the white-ball captaincy in 2017. While Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, Kohli is still an integral member of the Indian team across formats despite having given up captaincy across all formats of the game. Also Read: IPL 2022: Ravi Shastri has his say on Virat Kohli's batting position for Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL 2022 will be the first instance where both Dhoni and Kohli will represent their respective franchises as players having given up captaincy. Dhoni recently stepped down as the captain of four-time IPL champions CSK to hand over the reins to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja while Kohli had already left RCB's captaincy last year. While Dhoni will play under Jadeja, Kohli will be playing under RCB's new captain Faf du Plessis in the upcoming season.

MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli share a heartwarming hug as legends catch up ahead of IPL 2022 opener - WATCH

A brilliant bowling performance followed by an impactful batting effort helped Kolkata Knight Riders beat Chennai Super Kings by six wickets in the opening match of the IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium, here on Saturday. 
 
KKR bowlers -- Umesh Yadav (2/20) and Varun Chakaravarthy (1/23) bowled well and restricted Chennai Super Kings to 131-5 despite a fighting fifty by former captain MS Dhoni (50 off 38).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-smashes-first-ipl-fifty-in-two-years-to-rescue-csks-sinking-ship-against-kkr-465779">Dhoni smashes first IPL fifty in two years to rescue CSK's sinking ship vs KKR</a> 
 
Ravindra Jadeja (26 off 28) who was leading the CSK for the very first time looked under pressure while batting but former skipper Dhoni scored a timely half-century and added 70 runs for the sixth wicket to take Chennai to a respectable total. 
 
In reply, opener Ajinkya Rahane played a fine knock (44 off 34) while Sam Billings (25), Nitish Rana (20) and Shreyas Iyer (20 not out) also made valuable contributions with the bat as KKR chased down the target in 18.3 overs with six wickets in hand.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-csks-ravindra-jadeja-register-unique-record-in-opener-against-kkr-465774" hreflang="en">IPL 2022: CSK's Ravindra Jadeja registers unique record in opener against KKR</a> 
 
Dwayne Bravo was the most successful bowler for CSK with his figures of 3/20. 
 
Brief scores: Chennai Super Kings -- 131-5 in 20 Overs (MS Dhoni 50 not out, Robin Uthappa 28; Umesh Yadav 2/20) lost to Kolkata Knight Riders -- 133-4 in 18.3 overs (Ajinkya Rahane 44, Sam Billings 25; Dwayne Bravo 3/20) by 6 wickets

A brilliant bowling performance followed by an impactful batting effort helped Kolkata Knight Riders beat Chennai Super Kings by six wickets in the opening match of the IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium, here on Saturday.

A brilliant bowling performance followed by an impactful batting effort helped Kolkata Knight Riders beat Chennai Super Kings by six wickets in the opening match of the IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium, here on Saturday. KKR bowlers -- Umesh Yadav (2/20) and Varun Chakaravarthy (1/23) bowled well and restricted Chennai Super Kings to 131-5 despite a fighting fifty by former captain MS Dhoni (50 off 38). Also read | Dhoni smashes first IPL fifty in two years to rescue CSK's sinking ship vs KKR Ravindra Jadeja (26 off 28) who was leading the CSK for the very first time looked under pressure while batting but former skipper Dhoni scored a timely half-century and added 70 runs for the sixth wicket to take Chennai to a respectable total. In reply, opener Ajinkya Rahane played a fine knock (44 off 34) while Sam Billings (25), Nitish Rana (20) and Shreyas Iyer (20 not out) also made valuable contributions with the bat as KKR chased down the target in 18.3 overs with six wickets in hand. Also read | IPL 2022: CSK's Ravindra Jadeja registers unique record in opener against KKR Dwayne Bravo was the most successful bowler for CSK with his figures of 3/20. Brief scores: Chennai Super Kings -- 131-5 in 20 Overs (MS Dhoni 50 not out, Robin Uthappa 28; Umesh Yadav 2/20) lost to Kolkata Knight Riders -- 133-4 in 18.3 overs (Ajinkya Rahane 44, Sam Billings 25; Dwayne Bravo 3/20) by 6 wickets

IPL 2022: Ajinkya Rahane, Umesh Yadav guide KKR to victory over CSK in opener

The BCCI on Saturday felicitated Tokyo Olympians, including gold medallist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, with cash awards ahead of the IPL opener between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders here.

The Board handed Chopra a cheque of Rs 1 crore while Tokyo Games bronze medal-winning boxer Lovlina Borgohain was given Rs 25 lakh for her achievement.

The men's hockey team, which had also won a historic bronze medal at the quadrennial multi-sport event in Tokyo, was also handed a combined cheque of Rs 1 crore.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-not-make-yo-yo-test-more-difficult-considering-players-mental-health-465717">BCCI to not make Yo-Yo test more difficult considering players'&nbsp;mental health</a>

Captain Manpreet Singh picked up the cheque from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly in the presence of Board Secretary Jay Shah.

The BCCI had earlier announced cash awards for the medal winners at the Tokyo Olympics.

The BCCI on Saturday felicitated Tokyo Olympians, including gold medallist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, with cash awards ahead of the IPL opener between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders here.

The BCCI on Saturday felicitated Tokyo Olympians, including gold medallist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, with cash awards ahead of the IPL opener between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders here. The Board handed Chopra a cheque of Rs 1 crore while Tokyo Games bronze medal-winning boxer Lovlina Borgohain was given Rs 25 lakh for her achievement. The men's hockey team, which had also won a historic bronze medal at the quadrennial multi-sport event in Tokyo, was also handed a combined cheque of Rs 1 crore. ALSO READ: BCCI to not make Yo-Yo test more difficult considering players' mental health Captain Manpreet Singh picked up the cheque from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly in the presence of Board Secretary Jay Shah. The BCCI had earlier announced cash awards for the medal winners at the Tokyo Olympics.

BCCI felicitates Tokyo Olympians, including gold medallist Neeraj Chopra, ahead of CSK vs KKR opening clash

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) wicket-keeper Sheldon Jackson earned high praise from legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar after producing a lightning quick stumping to dismiss Robin Uthappa during the Indian Premier League (IPL) opener against Chennai Super Kings on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

Sachin compared him to MS Dhoni and wrote on his official Twitter account - "That was an outstanding stumping. @ShelJackson27’s speed reminded me of @msdhoni. Lightning fast!!".

<o:p></o:p>

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That was an outstanding stumping. <a href="https://twitter.com/ShelJackson27?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShelJackson27</a>’s speed reminded me of <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>. 
 
Lightning fast!! ⚡️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvKKR</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1507731348705865732?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Robin Uthappa was tricked by Varun Chakravarty in the eighth over of the Chennai Super Kings innings as the ball skidded off the track and Uthappa missed it completely after stepping out of the crease. Jackson was on the ball in a flash and took off the bails neatly in complete the dismissal. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh had a unique advice for Jackson.<o:p></o:p>

"Dear #SheldonJackson please wear a helmet when u keeping to spinners! You are a very talented player and have a golden opportunity after a long time be safe!!! And all the best, " said Yuvraj.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-smashes-first-ipl-fifty-in-two-years-to-rescue-csks-sinking-ship-against-kkr-465779">Dhoni smashes first IPL fifty in two years to rescue CSK's sinking ship vs KKR</a><o:p></o:p>

KKR went with two special wicketkeepers in the IPL 2022 opener with Jackson keeping the wickets and England’s Sam Billings playing as a specialist batsman. Jackson, who has been a part of KKR for quite some time, was bought in the auctions for INR 60 lakhs.<o:p></o:p>

The KKR bowlers performed quite well but MS Dhoni fought back with a brilliant half century as CSK posted 131/5 in 20 overs. Umesh Yadav took two wickets in the beginning while Varun Chakravarty and Andre Russell took one wicket each as KKR dominated most of the innings in the encounter.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) wicket-keeper Sheldon Jackson earned high praise from legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar after producing a lightning quick stumping to dismiss Robin Uthappa during the Indian Premier League (IPL) opener against Chennai Super Kings on Saturday.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) wicket-keeper Sheldon Jackson earned high praise from legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar after producing a lightning quick stumping to dismiss Robin Uthappa during the Indian Premier League (IPL) opener against Chennai Super Kings on Saturday. Sachin compared him to MS Dhoni and wrote on his official Twitter account - "That was an outstanding stumping. @ShelJackson27’s speed reminded me of @msdhoni. Lightning fast!!". That was an outstanding stumping. @ShelJackson27’s speed reminded me of @msdhoni. Lightning fast!! ⚡️#CSKvKKR — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) March 26, 2022 × Robin Uthappa was tricked by Varun Chakravarty in the eighth over of the Chennai Super Kings innings as the ball skidded off the track and Uthappa missed it completely after stepping out of the crease. Jackson was on the ball in a flash and took off the bails neatly in complete the dismissal. Meanwhile former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh had a unique advice for Jackson. "Dear #SheldonJackson please wear a helmet when u keeping to spinners! You are a very talented player and have a golden opportunity after a long time be safe!!! And all the best, " said Yuvraj. Also read | Dhoni smashes first IPL fifty in two years to rescue CSK's sinking ship vs KKR KKR went with two special wicketkeepers in the IPL 2022 opener with Jackson keeping the wickets and England’s Sam Billings playing as a specialist batsman. Jackson, who has been a part of KKR for quite some time, was bought in the auctions for INR 60 lakhs. The KKR bowlers performed quite well but MS Dhoni fought back with a brilliant half century as CSK posted 131/5 in 20 overs. Umesh Yadav took two wickets in the beginning while Varun Chakravarty and Andre Russell took one wicket each as KKR dominated most of the innings in the encounter.

IPL 2022: ‘Reminded me of MS Dhoni’ – Sachin Tendulkar’s high praise for KKR’s Sheldon Jackson

MS Dhoni slammed his first half century in two years to rescue Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from a tricky situation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener against Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai on Saturday. 

Dhoni registered seven boundaries and one six to bring up his fifty in 38 balls as CSK posted a total of 131 for the loss of five wickets after losing their top order quite cheaply.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-csks-ravindra-jadeja-register-unique-record-in-opener-against-kkr-465774" hreflang="en">CSK's Ravindra Jadeja registers unique record in opener against KKR</a>

Dhoni started his innings quite slowly but accelerated towards the end of the innings as CSK scored 47 runs off the final three overs of the innings. He stitched together an 80-run partnership with skipper Ravindra Jadeja as they steadied the innings after five wickets fell within the 11th over.<o:p></o:p>

KKR started the match well as the bowlers keep taking wickets at regular intervals. Umesh Yadav dismissed Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway while Varun Chakravarty got the better of Robin Uthappa. Ambati Rayudu and Shivam Dube followed suit as CSK were reeling at 61 for 5.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-with-change-in-rcb-leadership-we-might-see-the-virat-kohli-from-2016-says-sunil-gavaskar-465760" hreflang="en">With change in RCB leadership, we might see the Virat Kohli from 2016, says Sunil Gavaskar</a>

Dhoni joined Jadeja at the middle and started quite slowly as KKR bowlers kept testing him with spin and short balls. On one end, Andre Russell implemented a short pitch bowling strategy while it was all spin on the other as Chakravarty and Sunil Narine bowled in tandem during the middle overs.<o:p></o:p>

However, Dhoni weathered the storm and went after Shivam Mavi and Russell during the end of the innings. He connected brilliantly and two fours and a six off Mavi clearly showed his intentions in the 19th over. He continued to bat confidently and was able to reach his half century in the final over.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

MS Dhoni slammed his first half century in two years to rescue Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from a tricky situation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener against Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai on Saturday.

MS Dhoni slammed his first half century in two years to rescue Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from a tricky situation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener against Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai on Saturday. Dhoni registered seven boundaries and one six to bring up his fifty in 38 balls as CSK posted a total of 131 for the loss of five wickets after losing their top order quite cheaply. Also read | CSK's Ravindra Jadeja registers unique record in opener against KKR Dhoni started his innings quite slowly but accelerated towards the end of the innings as CSK scored 47 runs off the final three overs of the innings. He stitched together an 80-run partnership with skipper Ravindra Jadeja as they steadied the innings after five wickets fell within the 11th over. KKR started the match well as the bowlers keep taking wickets at regular intervals. Umesh Yadav dismissed Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway while Varun Chakravarty got the better of Robin Uthappa. Ambati Rayudu and Shivam Dube followed suit as CSK were reeling at 61 for 5. Also read | With change in RCB leadership, we might see the Virat Kohli from 2016, says Sunil Gavaskar Dhoni joined Jadeja at the middle and started quite slowly as KKR bowlers kept testing him with spin and short balls. On one end, Andre Russell implemented a short pitch bowling strategy while it was all spin on the other as Chakravarty and Sunil Narine bowled in tandem during the middle overs. However, Dhoni weathered the storm and went after Shivam Mavi and Russell during the end of the innings. He connected brilliantly and two fours and a six off Mavi clearly showed his intentions in the 19th over. He continued to bat confidently and was able to reach his half century in the final over.

MS Dhoni smashes first IPL fifty in two years to rescue CSK's sinking ship against KKR

MS Dhoni has been the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper since the Indian Premier League (IPL) started way back in 2008. The veteran wicket-keeper batsman had a brilliant run as CSK captain and he guided the franchise to four IPL titles and two Champions League T20 titles during his time.<o:p></o:p>

However, this season will be different as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja succeeded him as the CSK skipper after Dhoni decided to step down from the position ahead of the 2022 season.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-surprised-ab-de-villiers-reacts-to-ms-dhoni-handing-over-csk-captaincy-to-ravindra-jadeja-465741" hreflang="en">AB de Villiers reacts to Dhoni handing over CSK captaincy to Jadeja</a>

Both Jadeja and Dhoni were retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction along with Moeen Ali and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad who was the top scorer for the side in the 2021 season.<o:p></o:p>

Jadeja had to wait 200 games to get his first game as captain - a record in the IPL. The previous record belonged to Manish Pandey who played 153 games before leading Sunrisers Hyderabad.<o:p></o:p>

200 – Ravindra Jadeja<o:p></o:p>

153 – Manish Pandey<o:p></o:p>

137 – Kieron Pollard<o:p></o:p>

111 – Ravichandran Ashwin<o:p></o:p>

107 – Sanju Samson<o:p></o:p>

103 – Bhuvneshwar Kumar<o:p></o:p>

Chennai Super Kings went with four overseas players in the form of Devon Conway, Dwayne Bravo, Adam Milne and Mitchell Santner. They are missing the services of Deepak Chahar who is suffering from a quadriceps injury while Moeen Ali arrived late due to visa complications.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-expect-me-in-strategy-meetings-former-ipl-coach-recalls-his-first-conversation-with-ms-dhoni-465675" hreflang="en">'Don't advice me until I ask for': Ex-IPL coach on conversation with Dhoni</a>

"Big shoes to fill in. Happy and excited for the new role,” Jadeja said at the toss.<o:p></o:p>

Jadeja had a great run in form during the Test series against Sri Lanka and thanks to his brilliant show, he claimed the top spot in the ICC Test rankings for all-rounders. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

MS Dhoni has been the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper since the Indian Premier League (IPL) started way back in 2008. The veteran wicket-keeper batsman had a brilliant run as CSK captain and he guided the franchise to four IPL titles and two Champions League T20 titles during his time.

MS Dhoni has been the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper since the Indian Premier League (IPL) started way back in 2008. The veteran wicket-keeper batsman had a brilliant run as CSK captain and he guided the franchise to four IPL titles and two Champions League T20 titles during his time. However, this season will be different as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja succeeded him as the CSK skipper after Dhoni decided to step down from the position ahead of the 2022 season. Also read | AB de Villiers reacts to Dhoni handing over CSK captaincy to Jadeja Both Jadeja and Dhoni were retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction along with Moeen Ali and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad who was the top scorer for the side in the 2021 season. Jadeja had to wait 200 games to get his first game as captain - a record in the IPL. The previous record belonged to Manish Pandey who played 153 games before leading Sunrisers Hyderabad. 200 – Ravindra Jadeja 153 – Manish Pandey 137 – Kieron Pollard 111 – Ravichandran Ashwin 107 – Sanju Samson 103 – Bhuvneshwar Kumar Chennai Super Kings went with four overseas players in the form of Devon Conway, Dwayne Bravo, Adam Milne and Mitchell Santner. They are missing the services of Deepak Chahar who is suffering from a quadriceps injury while Moeen Ali arrived late due to visa complications. Also read | 'Don't advice me until I ask for': Ex-IPL coach on conversation with Dhoni "Big shoes to fill in. Happy and excited for the new role,” Jadeja said at the toss. Jadeja had a great run in form during the Test series against Sri Lanka and thanks to his brilliant show, he claimed the top spot in the ICC Test rankings for all-rounders.

IPL 2022: CSK's Ravindra Jadeja registers unique record in opener against KKR

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes Ravindra Jadeja is more than capable of handling the responsibility of captaincy for his Indian Premier League (IPL) side Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The legendary MS Dhoni stepped down as CSK captain earlier this week to hand over the reins to Jadeja.

Dhoni led CSK in all twelve seasons right from the inception of the tournament in 2008. He was part of the Rising Pune Supergiants side for two years in 2016 and 2017 when CSK were banned from IPL. Dhoni remains one of the most successful captains in IPL history with nine finals and four titles to his name as captain.

While many had expected Dhoni to continue leading CSK this year, Dhoni decided to hand over the reins to Jadeja looking at the future. Reacting to Jadeja's appointment as the new skipper of the side, Shastri said the added responsibility to do wonders for the Indian all-rounder.

"Jaddu, my friend, good luck. I am sure you are more than capable of handling the job as captain. I think he has got added responsibility and that will do him wonders," Shastri said on Star Sports.

"Get out there and enjoy yourself like you normally do and be a good captain. Good luck with the toss, start winning many," Shastri added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-vs-rohit-sharma-former-australia-cricketer-picks-the-best-ever-ipl-captain-465738">MS Dhoni vs Rohit Sharma: Former Australia cricketer picks the best ever IPL captain</a>

Shastri, who worked closely with Jadeja during his stint as the head coach of the Indian team from 2017 to 2021, said he has seen the all-rounder evolve in the last three years. Apart from being a superb fielder and a brilliant spinner, Jadeja has massively improved as a batter and Shastri believes he will be the livewire for CSK.

"He has been an outstanding cricketer for India. No. 1 in the world rankings when it comes to being an all-rounder. I have seen him evolve over the last 5 years and, in particular, the last 3 years," said Shastri.

"The way he is focussed on his batting. The time he has spent at the nets, the self-belief he has brought into the game. Apart from being an outstanding fielder and doing the job with the ball, I think he is a livewire in the team. He is very energetic, he is very positive and I am most happy to see he is back from a knee injury," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-surprised-ab-de-villiers-reacts-to-ms-dhoni-handing-over-csk-captaincy-to-ravindra-jadeja-465741">'I am not surprised': AB de Villiers reacts to MS Dhoni handing over CSK captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja</a>

CSK are currently locking horns with Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening game of the IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. 
&nbsp;

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Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes Ravindra Jadeja is more than capable of handling the responsibility of captaincy for his Indian Premier League (IPL) side Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes Ravindra Jadeja is more than capable of handling the responsibility of captaincy for his Indian Premier League (IPL) side Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The legendary MS Dhoni stepped down as CSK captain earlier this week to hand over the reins to Jadeja. Dhoni led CSK in all twelve seasons right from the inception of the tournament in 2008. He was part of the Rising Pune Supergiants side for two years in 2016 and 2017 when CSK were banned from IPL. Dhoni remains one of the most successful captains in IPL history with nine finals and four titles to his name as captain. While many had expected Dhoni to continue leading CSK this year, Dhoni decided to hand over the reins to Jadeja looking at the future. Reacting to Jadeja's appointment as the new skipper of the side, Shastri said the added responsibility to do wonders for the Indian all-rounder. "Jaddu, my friend, good luck. I am sure you are more than capable of handling the job as captain. I think he has got added responsibility and that will do him wonders," Shastri said on Star Sports. "Get out there and enjoy yourself like you normally do and be a good captain. Good luck with the toss, start winning many," Shastri added. Also Read: MS Dhoni vs Rohit Sharma: Former Australia cricketer picks the best ever IPL captain Shastri, who worked closely with Jadeja during his stint as the head coach of the Indian team from 2017 to 2021, said he has seen the all-rounder evolve in the last three years. Apart from being a superb fielder and a brilliant spinner, Jadeja has massively improved as a batter and Shastri believes he will be the livewire for CSK. "He has been an outstanding cricketer for India. No. 1 in the world rankings when it comes to being an all-rounder. I have seen him evolve over the last 5 years and, in particular, the last 3 years," said Shastri. "The way he is focussed on his batting. The time he has spent at the nets, the self-belief he has brought into the game. Apart from being an outstanding fielder and doing the job with the ball, I think he is a livewire in the team. He is very energetic, he is very positive and I am most happy to see he is back from a knee injury," he added. Also Read: 'I am not surprised': AB de Villiers reacts to MS Dhoni handing over CSK captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja CSK are currently locking horns with Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening game of the IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Ravindra Jadeja more than capable of handling captaincy for CSK, says former India head coach Ravi Shastri

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that Virat Kohli can repeat his heroics of 2016 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after giving up captaincy of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Kohli had a dream run of form in 2016 when he scored 973 runs in a single season. <o:p></o:p>

Speaking during a Gameplan episode on Star Sports, Gavaskar said, “At the moment, we do not know whether Kohli will be captain again. Sometimes when a player is relieved of the burden of captaincy, he flourishes as he is not thinking about 10 other players.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-vs-rohit-sharma-former-australia-cricketer-picks-the-best-ever-ipl-captain-465738" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni vs Rohit Sharma: Former Australia cricketer picks the best ever IPL captain</a>

“When you are captain, you are thinking about 10 other players and sometimes also the other members of your squad, about their form or lack of form and things that they are not doing right which when they do it right, will be good for the team. This season, we might actually see the Kohli of 2016 where he got almost 1000 runs in the IPL season,” Gavaskar said on the programme. <o:p></o:p>

Glenn Maxwell will also be an integral part of RCB after he was retained ahead of this year’s mega auction. Speaking about the Australia star, Gavaskar said, “Maxwell’s cricket depends on how he approaches every inning. There are times when his approach has been unbelievably fantastic and then there are times it has not been that great.

<o:p>Also read |</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-surprised-ab-de-villiers-reacts-to-ms-dhoni-handing-over-csk-captaincy-to-ravindra-jadeja-465741" hreflang="en">&nbsp;AB de Villiers reacts to MS Dhoni handing over CSK captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja</a>

“Last season, he was in a team with Virat Kohli and ABD, two of the finest batsmen that the game has seen and so maybe he lifted his game. He raised the level of his game to try to keep up with that.<o:p></o:p>

“If he says to himself, I am going to do what ABD has done for RCB, then RCB could be in for a real magic season from Maxwell,” he concluded.<o:p></o:p>

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that Virat Kohli can repeat his heroics of 2016 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after giving up captaincy of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that Virat Kohli can repeat his heroics of 2016 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after giving up captaincy of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Kohli had a dream run of form in 2016 when he scored 973 runs in a single season. Speaking during a Gameplan episode on Star Sports, Gavaskar said, “At the moment, we do not know whether Kohli will be captain again. Sometimes when a player is relieved of the burden of captaincy, he flourishes as he is not thinking about 10 other players. Also read | MS Dhoni vs Rohit Sharma: Former Australia cricketer picks the best ever IPL captain “When you are captain, you are thinking about 10 other players and sometimes also the other members of your squad, about their form or lack of form and things that they are not doing right which when they do it right, will be good for the team. This season, we might actually see the Kohli of 2016 where he got almost 1000 runs in the IPL season,” Gavaskar said on the programme. Glenn Maxwell will also be an integral part of RCB after he was retained ahead of this year’s mega auction. Speaking about the Australia star, Gavaskar said, “Maxwell’s cricket depends on how he approaches every inning. There are times when his approach has been unbelievably fantastic and then there are times it has not been that great. Also read | AB de Villiers reacts to MS Dhoni handing over CSK captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja “Last season, he was in a team with Virat Kohli and ABD, two of the finest batsmen that the game has seen and so maybe he lifted his game. He raised the level of his game to try to keep up with that. “If he says to himself, I am going to do what ABD has done for RCB, then RCB could be in for a real magic season from Maxwell,” he concluded.

IPL 2022: With change in RCB leadership, we might see the Virat Kohli from 2016, says Sunil Gavaskar

Former Australia cricketer Brad Hogg believes that MS Dhoni is the best Indian Premier League (IPL) skipper ever and he is even ahead of Rohit Sharma who has won five titles with Mumbai Indians.<o:p></o:p>

Dhoni captained Chennai Super Kings since the tournament began in 2008 before stepping down from the position ahead of the 2022 season and he was succeeded by all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-465639" hreflang="en">CSK vs KKR prediction: Who will win today's IPL 2022 opener?</a><o:p></o:p>

With CSK, Dhoni won the IPL title four times and he also won the Champions League T20 twice.<o:p></o:p>

"Rohit Sharma with the Mumbai Indians has won five titles, while MS Dhoni has won four titles as captain in the IPL. But does it mean that Rohit Sharma is a better captain than Dhoni? No, it doesn't. Why? Because it's the win percentage over your whole career as a captain that's important. Because you need consistency within your team, and if you have that consistency, you have got a better chance of success at the back end, and MS Dhoni has had that," Hogg said on his YouTube channel.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-and-virat-kohli-share-a-heartwarming-hug-as-legends-catch-up-ahead-of-ipl-2022-opener-watch-465629" hreflang="en">Dhoni and Kohli share a heartwarming hug as they catch up ahead of IPL 2022</a><o:p></o:p>

"Dhoni has captained 204 games at a 60-odd percent win ratio, which is 61 percent with the Chennai Super Kings in 190 matches. No one is going to break that record of captaining more than 100 games, so Dhoni is the best captain going around," he added when speaking about the comparisons.<o:p></o:p>

Chennai Super Kings will be beginning the tournament as favourites after winning the competition in 2021 and they will take over last year’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders in the opener on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

Former Australia cricketer Brad Hogg believes that MS Dhoni is the best Indian Premier League (IPL) skipper ever and he is even ahead of Rohit Sharma who has won five titles with Mumbai Indians.

Former Australia cricketer Brad Hogg believes that MS Dhoni is the best Indian Premier League (IPL) skipper ever and he is even ahead of Rohit Sharma who has won five titles with Mumbai Indians. Dhoni captained Chennai Super Kings since the tournament began in 2008 before stepping down from the position ahead of the 2022 season and he was succeeded by all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Also read | CSK vs KKR prediction: Who will win today's IPL 2022 opener? With CSK, Dhoni won the IPL title four times and he also won the Champions League T20 twice. "Rohit Sharma with the Mumbai Indians has won five titles, while MS Dhoni has won four titles as captain in the IPL. But does it mean that Rohit Sharma is a better captain than Dhoni? No, it doesn't. Why? Because it's the win percentage over your whole career as a captain that's important. Because you need consistency within your team, and if you have that consistency, you have got a better chance of success at the back end, and MS Dhoni has had that," Hogg said on his YouTube channel. Also read | Dhoni and Kohli share a heartwarming hug as they catch up ahead of IPL 2022 "Dhoni has captained 204 games at a 60-odd percent win ratio, which is 61 percent with the Chennai Super Kings in 190 matches. No one is going to break that record of captaining more than 100 games, so Dhoni is the best captain going around," he added when speaking about the comparisons. Chennai Super Kings will be beginning the tournament as favourites after winning the competition in 2021 and they will take over last year’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders in the opener on Saturday.

MS Dhoni vs Rohit Sharma: Former Australia cricketer picks the best ever IPL captain

MS Dhoni left the entire cricketing fraternity in shock as he announced his resignation as the captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) just days ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Dhoni handed over the reins to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, bringing an end to a glorious tenure as the captain of the four-time champions.

Dhoni captained&nbsp;CSK in a total of twelve seasons and led to a staggering nine finals and four titles. CSK managed to qualify for the playoffs in eleven out of the twelve seasons under Dhoni's captaincy, missing out only once in 2020. Dhoni led CSK right from the inception of IPL in 2008 to 2021.

Dhoni was expected to continue leading CSK this season after having been retained by the franchise for a sum of Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million). However, he decided to step away to ensure he can be around and groom Jadeja as the new leader of the side going forward. Jadeja was CSK's first-choice retention for a sum of a whopping Rs 16 crore (INR 160 million).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-sends-special-message-to-rcb-fans-ahead-of-ipl-2022-we-will-give-everything-to-win-the-title-465727">Kohli sends special message to RCB fans ahead of IPL 2022: We will give everything to win the title</a>

Reacting to Dhoni handing over captaincy to Jadeja ahead of IPL 2022, former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) superstar AB de Villiers said he was not surprised by the move. De Villiers said it was the right time for Dhoni to step away having led the team to their fourth IPL title last season.

“I am not surprised by MS’ move. I am actually quite happy for him. Having carried that burden for so long, people might think that it is easy to be captain, but it really wears you down. You have sleepless nights sometimes, especially when you don’t have good seasons," De Villiers said on&nbsp;VUSports.

"But I think he stepped away at exactly the right time, having won the last IPL. The season before the last would have hurt him a lot. To come back and win the trophy and then say 'I’ll still play but someone else takes over and I’ll be there to support', it’s the perfect move.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-expect-me-in-strategy-meetings-former-ipl-coach-recalls-his-first-conversation-with-ms-dhoni-465675">'Don't expect me in strategy meetings': Former IPL coach recalls his first conversation with MS Dhoni</a>

CSK have been one of the most consistent teams in the IPL over the years and will be looking to continue their stellar run under new captain Jadeja. CSK will take on Kolkata Knight Riders in their opening game of the season on Saturday (March 26).

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MS Dhoni left the entire cricketing fraternity in shock as he announced his resignation as the captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) just days ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

MS Dhoni left the entire cricketing fraternity in shock as he announced his resignation as the captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) just days ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Dhoni handed over the reins to star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, bringing an end to a glorious tenure as the captain of the four-time champions. Dhoni captained CSK in a total of twelve seasons and led to a staggering nine finals and four titles. CSK managed to qualify for the playoffs in eleven out of the twelve seasons under Dhoni's captaincy, missing out only once in 2020. Dhoni led CSK right from the inception of IPL in 2008 to 2021. Dhoni was expected to continue leading CSK this season after having been retained by the franchise for a sum of Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million). However, he decided to step away to ensure he can be around and groom Jadeja as the new leader of the side going forward. Jadeja was CSK's first-choice retention for a sum of a whopping Rs 16 crore (INR 160 million). Also Read: Kohli sends special message to RCB fans ahead of IPL 2022: We will give everything to win the title Reacting to Dhoni handing over captaincy to Jadeja ahead of IPL 2022, former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) superstar AB de Villiers said he was not surprised by the move. De Villiers said it was the right time for Dhoni to step away having led the team to their fourth IPL title last season. “I am not surprised by MS’ move. I am actually quite happy for him. Having carried that burden for so long, people might think that it is easy to be captain, but it really wears you down. You have sleepless nights sometimes, especially when you don’t have good seasons," De Villiers said on VUSports. "But I think he stepped away at exactly the right time, having won the last IPL. The season before the last would have hurt him a lot. To come back and win the trophy and then say 'I’ll still play but someone else takes over and I’ll be there to support', it’s the perfect move.” Also Read: 'Don't expect me in strategy meetings': Former IPL coach recalls his first conversation with MS Dhoni CSK have been one of the most consistent teams in the IPL over the years and will be looking to continue their stellar run under new captain Jadeja. CSK will take on Kolkata Knight Riders in their opening game of the season on Saturday (March 26).

'I am not surprised': AB de Villiers reacts to MS Dhoni handing over CSK captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja

Defending champions Chennai Super Kings will face Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening clash of IPL 2022 as this will going to&nbsp;be a repeat of last year's final. CSK won their fourth title in the previous meeting while KKR will look to seek revenge for losing the IPL 2021 final.

Both teams have been slightly affected as some of the overseas players will be joining the team late. Visa issues have delayed star all-rounder Moeen Ali's arrival and he will be unavailable for the first match. KKR will be without the services of Tim Southee and Pat Cummins for the first few games.

But the big news is Mahendra Singh Dhoni stepping down as CSK captain as Ravindra Jadeja will be leading the team from now on. KKR also has a new skipper&nbsp;in Shreyas Iyer who will try to make a winning start to the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-crickets-crown-jewel-the-ipl-is-back-home-bigger-better-and-longer-465657">Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer</a>

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:&nbsp;

Where is the IPL 2022&nbsp;match between Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;vs Kolkata Knight Riders&nbsp;taking place?

The IPL 2022&nbsp;match between&nbsp;Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

What time does the IPL 2022&nbsp;match between&nbsp;Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin?

The IPL 2022&nbsp;match between&nbsp;Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;vs Kolkata Knight Riders begins at 7:30 PM IST&nbsp;on Saturday, March 26.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-csk-vs-kkr-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-465662">IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2022&nbsp;match between Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;vs Kolkata Knight Riders?

The IPL 2022&nbsp;match between&nbsp;Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2022&nbsp;match between CSK vs KKR&nbsp;will be available on Hotstar.

Defending champions Chennai Super Kings will face Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening clash of IPL 2022 as this will going to be a repeat of last year's final. CSK won their fourth title in the previous meeting while KKR will look to seek revenge for losing the IPL 2021 final.

Defending champions Chennai Super Kings will face Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening clash of IPL 2022 as this will going to be a repeat of last year's final. CSK won their fourth title in the previous meeting while KKR will look to seek revenge for losing the IPL 2021 final. Both teams have been slightly affected as some of the overseas players will be joining the team late. Visa issues have delayed star all-rounder Moeen Ali's arrival and he will be unavailable for the first match. KKR will be without the services of Tim Southee and Pat Cummins for the first few games. But the big news is Mahendra Singh Dhoni stepping down as CSK captain as Ravindra Jadeja will be leading the team from now on. KKR also has a new skipper in Shreyas Iyer who will try to make a winning start to the tournament. ALSO READ: Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the IPL 2022 match between Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders taking place? The IPL 2022 match between Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders will take place at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. What time does the IPL 2022 match between Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders begin? The IPL 2022 match between Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders begins at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday, March 26. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2022 match between Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders? The IPL 2022 match between Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2022 match between CSK vs KKR will be available on Hotstar.

IPL 2022, CSK vs KKR, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders?

Virat Kohli has sent a special message to the fans of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the start of the new season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). For the first time since 2013, Kohli will be playing in the IPL as a pure batter and not as captain of his side. Kohli had stepped down as the captain of RCB following the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year.

He has been replaced by former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis, who will be leading an IPL team for the first time in his career. Du Plessis was roped in by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL mega auction last month and is expected to play a key role with the bat for the franchise this year.

Ahead of the start of RCB's campaign in IPL 2022, Kohli sent a special message to the fans vowing to give his all to inspire the team to their maiden trophy this season. Kohli requested the fans to throng the stadiums in large numbers to support RCB and promised to give his everything for the team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-csk-vs-kkr-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-465662">IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads</a>

"Hello everyone in Bengaluru, [to] all the RCB fans. Firstly, it's a new season, fresh start, a different format this year, team's looking strong. We're very excited to start on a strong note. But more importantly, I am really looking forward to heaps and heaps of you coming over from Bangalore, getting hold of tickets and wearing your jerseys and with those red flags and cheering for us," Kohli said in a video shared by RCB.

"Please come to the stadium, support us and we will give you everything, every game like we have over so many years and we'll definitely try our best to go all the way and win the title," he added.

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Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-know-how-to-win-games-ab-de-villiers-predicts-winner-of-ipl-2022-opener-between-csk-and-kkr-465697">&nbsp;'They know how to win games': AB de Villiers predicts winner of IPL 2022 opener between CSK and KKR</a>

The former skipper also eplained why he decided to give up captaincy and said it was iportant for him to take the decision as it was creating a hindrance for him in enjoying his game to the fullest. Kohli led RCB in a total of 140 mtches with 64 wins and 69 losses.

RCB have been placed in Group B in IPL 2022 and will be opening their campaign against Punjab Kings at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai&nbsp;on Sunday (March 27).

Virat Kohli has sent a special message to the fans of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the start of the new season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). For the first time since 2013, Kohli will be playing in the IPL as a pure batter and not as captain of his side.

Virat Kohli has sent a special message to the fans of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the start of the new season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). For the first time since 2013, Kohli will be playing in the IPL as a pure batter and not as captain of his side. Kohli had stepped down as the captain of RCB following the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. He has been replaced by former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis, who will be leading an IPL team for the first time in his career. Du Plessis was roped in by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL mega auction last month and is expected to play a key role with the bat for the franchise this year. Ahead of the start of RCB's campaign in IPL 2022, Kohli sent a special message to the fans vowing to give his all to inspire the team to their maiden trophy this season. Kohli requested the fans to throng the stadiums in large numbers to support RCB and promised to give his everything for the team. Also Read: IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads "Hello everyone in Bengaluru, [to] all the RCB fans. Firstly, it's a new season, fresh start, a different format this year, team's looking strong. We're very excited to start on a strong note. But more importantly, I am really looking forward to heaps and heaps of you coming over from Bangalore, getting hold of tickets and wearing your jerseys and with those red flags and cheering for us," Kohli said in a video shared by RCB. "Please come to the stadium, support us and we will give you everything, every game like we have over so many years and we'll definitely try our best to go all the way and win the title," he added. × Also Read: 'They know how to win games': AB de Villiers predicts winner of IPL 2022 opener between CSK and KKR The former skipper also eplained why he decided to give up captaincy and said it was iportant for him to take the decision as it was creating a hindrance for him in enjoying his game to the fullest. Kohli led RCB in a total of 140 mtches with 64 wins and 69 losses. RCB have been placed in Group B in IPL 2022 and will be opening their campaign against Punjab Kings at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday (March 27).

Virat Kohli sends special message to RCB fans ahead of IPL 2022: 'We will give everything to win the title'

MS Dhoni has been captaining the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) side since the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008. However, the veteran wicket-keeper batsman decided to step down from his position and he was replaced with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja ahead of the 2022 season.<o:p></o:p>

Former CSK cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath believes that Jadeja has improved a lot as all all-round cricketer but his captaincy is something ‘to be looked at’ as he has never done it before.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-465639" hreflang="en">CSK vs KKR prediction: Who will win today's IPL 2022 opener?</a>

"Jadeja has always been a bowler but in the last two years, he has improved as a batsman tremendously. The biggest part of his game in which he has improved is his batting. His batting has made him a proper all-rounder, a proper 3D cricketer", the 41-year-old said told Times Now.<o:p></o:p>

"Now there's a fourth dimension as well. He will be a 4D cricketer because captaincy is also there. The only thing is that he has never led any team, even in First-Class cricket. That is the only thing that needs to be looked at. As for his value to the team, we all know it."

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-look-opening-pair-kkrs-predicted-playing-xi-for-ipl-2022-opener-against-csk-465699" hreflang="en">New look opening pair? KKR's predicted XI for IPL 2022 opener against CSK</a>

"The thing is, he already has the load. He has to be fielding in the hotspot. He has to do bowling, batting, and now there's captaincy also", he further added while taking about the developement.”<o:p></o:p>

Jadeja had a brilliant run of form in the Test series against Sri Lanka and thanks to his brilliant show, he was able to claim the top spot in the ICC all-rounders rankings ahead of the new season.

CSK will begin their IPL 2022 campaign against last year's finalists Kolkata Knight Riders on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

MS Dhoni has been captaining the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) side since the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008. However, the veteran wicket-keeper batsman decided to step down from his position and he was replaced with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja ahead of the 2022 season.

MS Dhoni has been captaining the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) side since the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008. However, the veteran wicket-keeper batsman decided to step down from his position and he was replaced with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja ahead of the 2022 season. Former CSK cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath believes that Jadeja has improved a lot as all all-round cricketer but his captaincy is something ‘to be looked at’ as he has never done it before. Also read | CSK vs KKR prediction: Who will win today's IPL 2022 opener? "Jadeja has always been a bowler but in the last two years, he has improved as a batsman tremendously. The biggest part of his game in which he has improved is his batting. His batting has made him a proper all-rounder, a proper 3D cricketer", the 41-year-old said told Times Now. "Now there's a fourth dimension as well. He will be a 4D cricketer because captaincy is also there. The only thing is that he has never led any team, even in First-Class cricket. That is the only thing that needs to be looked at. As for his value to the team, we all know it." Also read | New look opening pair? KKR's predicted XI for IPL 2022 opener against CSK "The thing is, he already has the load. He has to be fielding in the hotspot. He has to do bowling, batting, and now there's captaincy also", he further added while taking about the developement.” Jadeja had a brilliant run of form in the Test series against Sri Lanka and thanks to his brilliant show, he was able to claim the top spot in the ICC all-rounders rankings ahead of the new season. CSK will begin their IPL 2022 campaign against last year's finalists Kolkata Knight Riders on Saturday.

IPL 2022: Former CSK star has his say on Ravindra Jadeja's captaincy appointment

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season gets underway on Saturday with defending champions Chennai Super Kings taking on last year’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai.<o:p></o:p>

Both teams will have new captains with Shreyas Iyer leading KKR and Ravindra Jadeja taking over the leadership position from MS Dhoni.

The two franchises&nbsp;will also be missing a host of prominent players due to a number of restrictions – Tim Southee, Pat Cummins and Aaron Finch for KKR while CSK will be without England all-rounder Moeen Ali and the injured fast bowler Deepak Chahar.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-look-opening-pair-kkrs-predicted-playing-xi-for-ipl-2022-opener-against-csk-465699" hreflang="en">New look opening pair? KKR's predicted XI for IPL 2022 opener against CSK</a>

Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh, who has played for both KKR and CSK, picked a winner ahead of the encounter. In a conversation with Sportskeeda, Harbhajan said that KKR have a number of young players in their arsenal and he added that KKR will emerge victorious on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

“I think it’s KKR because they are a young side and boast decent players. They have good hitters along with two quality spinners. Hence, I feel KKR will beat CSK,” Harbhajan was quoted as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-kevin-conway-to-open-csks-predicted-playing-xi-for-opener-against-kkr-465681" hreflang="en">Conway to open? CSK's predicted playing XI for IPL 2022 opener against KKR</a>

“Both teams have a special place. Both franchises took care of me when I played for them. When I played for CSK, the fans poured in all their love. I was with the KKR side last year. Although I didn’t play much due to fitness issues, I tried to help them mentally as much as possible. Both teams have given me immense love but if I have to pick one team that will win, I will have to go with KKR. They have the right team to win,” he added.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season gets underway on Saturday with defending champions Chennai Super Kings taking on last year’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 season gets underway on Saturday with defending champions Chennai Super Kings taking on last year’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai. Both teams will have new captains with Shreyas Iyer leading KKR and Ravindra Jadeja taking over the leadership position from MS Dhoni. The two franchises will also be missing a host of prominent players due to a number of restrictions – Tim Southee, Pat Cummins and Aaron Finch for KKR while CSK will be without England all-rounder Moeen Ali and the injured fast bowler Deepak Chahar. Also read | New look opening pair? KKR's predicted XI for IPL 2022 opener against CSK Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh, who has played for both KKR and CSK, picked a winner ahead of the encounter. In a conversation with Sportskeeda, Harbhajan said that KKR have a number of young players in their arsenal and he added that KKR will emerge victorious on Saturday. “I think it’s KKR because they are a young side and boast decent players. They have good hitters along with two quality spinners. Hence, I feel KKR will beat CSK,” Harbhajan was quoted as saying. Also read | Conway to open? CSK's predicted playing XI for IPL 2022 opener against KKR “Both teams have a special place. Both franchises took care of me when I played for them. When I played for CSK, the fans poured in all their love. I was with the KKR side last year. Although I didn’t play much due to fitness issues, I tried to help them mentally as much as possible. Both teams have given me immense love but if I have to pick one team that will win, I will have to go with KKR. They have the right team to win,” he added.

IPL 2022: Harbhajan Singh explains why KKR start as favourites against CSK

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star batter Virat Kohli cannot wait to get on the field for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

IPL 2022 will begin with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) here at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.

As RCB will lock horns with Punjab Kings in their first match of the tournament on Sunday. An 'excited'&nbsp;Kohli on Saturday shared pictures from his training session.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-crickets-crown-jewel-the-ipl-is-back-home-bigger-better-and-longer-465657">Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer</a>

"Heading into matchday weekend. All the buzz and excitement of IPL are in the air. Love this anticipation and butterflies in the stomach before the tournament starts," Virat Kohli said on Koo.

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<div style="padding: 10px"><a href="https://www.kooapp.com/koo/virat.kohli/de32ea74-6cdb-4248-a880-17aa8d49ea54" style="text-decoration:none;color: inherit !important;" target="_blank">Heading into matchday weekend. All the buzz and excitement of IPL in the air. Love this anticipation and butterflies in the stomach before the tournament starts. 👌✅</a>

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Kohli, free from the responsibilities as the captain, is focused on helping RCB lift the IPL trophy this season.

Asked if relinquishing captaincy duties has given him refreshed energy, Kohli on the RCB website said, "(I have) renewed energy because I'm off a lot of responsibilities and duties. And life is in a very good place. We have a child now, we have a family. For me, it's all about going on with life with a lot of joy and happiness and just watching our child grow and then just doing what I love, which is playing cricket."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-csk-vs-kkr-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-465662">IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads​</a>​​​​​​

"So, my focus is so clear now, it's so precise what I want to do. I want to just have a lot of fun and enjoy myself on the field and give myself fully to this team, to this franchise like I have for so many years, without any load. So, I'm absolutely ready," he added.

Coming back to IPL, the games will be played across stadiums in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune with an audience occupancy rate of 25 per cent as per COVID-19 protocols.

In all, 20 matches each will be held at Wankhede Stadium and DY Patil Stadium, 15 matches each at Brabourne and MCA International Stadium, Pune.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star batter Virat Kohli cannot wait to get on the field for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. IPL 2022 will begin with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) here at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star batter Virat Kohli cannot wait to get on the field for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. IPL 2022 will begin with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) here at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. As RCB will lock horns with Punjab Kings in their first match of the tournament on Sunday. An 'excited' Kohli on Saturday shared pictures from his training session. ALSO READ: Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer "Heading into matchday weekend. All the buzz and excitement of IPL are in the air. Love this anticipation and butterflies in the stomach before the tournament starts," Virat Kohli said on Koo. Koo App Heading into matchday weekend. All the buzz and excitement of IPL in the air. Love this anticipation and butterflies in the stomach before the tournament starts. 👌✅ View attached media content - Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) 26 Mar 2022 × Kohli, free from the responsibilities as the captain, is focused on helping RCB lift the IPL trophy this season. Asked if relinquishing captaincy duties has given him refreshed energy, Kohli on the RCB website said, "(I have) renewed energy because I'm off a lot of responsibilities and duties. And life is in a very good place. We have a child now, we have a family. For me, it's all about going on with life with a lot of joy and happiness and just watching our child grow and then just doing what I love, which is playing cricket." ALSO READ: IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads "So, my focus is so clear now, it's so precise what I want to do. I want to just have a lot of fun and enjoy myself on the field and give myself fully to this team, to this franchise like I have for so many years, without any load. So, I'm absolutely ready," he added. Coming back to IPL, the games will be played across stadiums in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune with an audience occupancy rate of 25 per cent as per COVID-19 protocols. In all, 20 matches each will be held at Wankhede Stadium and DY Patil Stadium, 15 matches each at Brabourne and MCA International Stadium, Pune.

IPL 2022: Butterflies in stomach before tournament starts, says Virat Kohli ahead of RCB's clash against PBKS

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will look for some revenge when they take on defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener on Saturday. <o:p></o:p>

KKR started quite poorly last season but a quick turnaround in the UAE leg of the tournament saw them qualifying for the final. However, they were completely outplayed by MS Dhoni &amp; Co as they marched on their fourth IPL title thanks to Faf du Plessis and all-rounder Shardul Thakur.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-kevin-conway-to-open-csks-predicted-playing-xi-for-opener-against-kkr-465681" hreflang="en">Conway to open? CSK's predicted playing XI for IPL 2022 opener against KKR</a><o:p></o:p>

This season, KKR will be under new leadership as big money signing Shreyas Iyer will be at the helm of affairs and there will be quite a number of new faces in the squad. However, they will be without the services of Pat Cummins, Tim Southee and Aaron Finch as they take on Chennai Super Kings.<o:p></o:p>

Venkatesh Iyer is expected to open the batting for KKR after having a brilliant season in 2021 and he will most likely be joined by veteran Ajinkya Rahane. Shreyas will take his familiar place at No 3 with Nitish Rana coming to bat at No 4 and wicket-keeper batsman Sam Billings at No. 5.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-465639" hreflang="en">CSK vs KKR prediction: Who will win today's IPL 2022 opener?</a>

When it comes to the all-rounders, the West Indies duo of Andre Russell and Sunil Narine will retain their positions and Sri Lanka’s Chamika Karunaratne is expected to make his debut for his new side.<o:p></o:p>

In the bowling department, it will be mix of old and new as Umesh Yadav is expected to play for KKR along with young pacer Shivam Mavi and the mystery spinner Varun Chakravarty.<o:p></o:p>

KKR Predicted XI: Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Nitish Rana, Sam Billings, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Chamika Karunaratne, Shivam Mavi, Umesh Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy<o:p></o:p>

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will look for some revenge when they take on defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener on Saturday.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will look for some revenge when they take on defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener on Saturday. KKR started quite poorly last season but a quick turnaround in the UAE leg of the tournament saw them qualifying for the final. However, they were completely outplayed by MS Dhoni & Co as they marched on their fourth IPL title thanks to Faf du Plessis and all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Also read | Conway to open? CSK's predicted playing XI for IPL 2022 opener against KKR This season, KKR will be under new leadership as big money signing Shreyas Iyer will be at the helm of affairs and there will be quite a number of new faces in the squad. However, they will be without the services of Pat Cummins, Tim Southee and Aaron Finch as they take on Chennai Super Kings. Venkatesh Iyer is expected to open the batting for KKR after having a brilliant season in 2021 and he will most likely be joined by veteran Ajinkya Rahane. Shreyas will take his familiar place at No 3 with Nitish Rana coming to bat at No 4 and wicket-keeper batsman Sam Billings at No. 5. Also read | CSK vs KKR prediction: Who will win today's IPL 2022 opener? When it comes to the all-rounders, the West Indies duo of Andre Russell and Sunil Narine will retain their positions and Sri Lanka’s Chamika Karunaratne is expected to make his debut for his new side. In the bowling department, it will be mix of old and new as Umesh Yadav is expected to play for KKR along with young pacer Shivam Mavi and the mystery spinner Varun Chakravarty. KKR Predicted XI: Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Nitish Rana, Sam Billings, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Chamika Karunaratne, Shivam Mavi, Umesh Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy

New look opening pair? KKR's predicted playing XI for IPL 2022 opener against CSK

South Africa legend and former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) superstar AB de Villiers has predicted the winner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). CSK will lock horns with KKR in the first game of the IPL 2022 season at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday (March 26).

Both CSK and KKR have had a change in their leadership ahead of the IPL 2022 opener. While MS Dhoni has stepped down as captain to hand over the reins to Ravindra Jadeja, KKR have a new skipper in Shreyas Iyer this time around. Both teams will also be missing some of their key players for the first game of the season.

CSK will be without pacer Deepak Chahar and star all-rounder Moeen Ali while KKR will miss the services of both Pat Cummins and Aaron Finch. Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated clash between the two sides, De Villiers has backed CSK to beat KKR and get off to a winning start this season.

De Villiers pointed out how CSK have a quite similar team from their title-winning campaign last year and Dhoni stepping aside as captain doesn't affect them much. The South Africa legend said CSK know how to win games and the experience in their squad will help them in crossing the line against KKR at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-csk-vs-kkr-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-465662">IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads</a>

“CSK all the way. They come off that confidence from winning the last IPL. They have a similar team set-up even though (MS) Dhoni is not captain. I don’t think it’s going to play a big role. He’s still on the park and he’s still got the brain. He’ll be in Jaddu’s ears, thinking about strategies and some field placings," said De Villiers on&nbsp;VUSport Scouts.

“They have a lot of experience and they just know how to cross the line and win games. They know how to go into first games and how to go into last games. There have been a lot of changes in the KKR squad. I think CSK will take the first game," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-expect-me-in-strategy-meetings-former-ipl-coach-recalls-his-first-conversation-with-ms-dhoni-465675">'Don't expect me in strategy meetings': Former IPL coach recalls his first conversation with MS Dhoni</a>

De Villiers is not a part of IPL 2022 as he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this year. The South African great will go down as one of the greatest to have played in the IPL but will regret that fact that he never managed to lift the IPL trophy despite having an illustrious career.

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South Africa legend and former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) superstar AB de Villiers has predicted the winner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

South Africa legend and former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) superstar AB de Villiers has predicted the winner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). CSK will lock horns with KKR in the first game of the IPL 2022 season at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday (March 26). Both CSK and KKR have had a change in their leadership ahead of the IPL 2022 opener. While MS Dhoni has stepped down as captain to hand over the reins to Ravindra Jadeja, KKR have a new skipper in Shreyas Iyer this time around. Both teams will also be missing some of their key players for the first game of the season. CSK will be without pacer Deepak Chahar and star all-rounder Moeen Ali while KKR will miss the services of both Pat Cummins and Aaron Finch. Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated clash between the two sides, De Villiers has backed CSK to beat KKR and get off to a winning start this season. De Villiers pointed out how CSK have a quite similar team from their title-winning campaign last year and Dhoni stepping aside as captain doesn't affect them much. The South Africa legend said CSK know how to win games and the experience in their squad will help them in crossing the line against KKR at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. Also Read: IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads “CSK all the way. They come off that confidence from winning the last IPL. They have a similar team set-up even though (MS) Dhoni is not captain. I don’t think it’s going to play a big role. He’s still on the park and he’s still got the brain. He’ll be in Jaddu’s ears, thinking about strategies and some field placings," said De Villiers on VUSport Scouts. “They have a lot of experience and they just know how to cross the line and win games. They know how to go into first games and how to go into last games. There have been a lot of changes in the KKR squad. I think CSK will take the first game," he added. Also Read: 'Don't expect me in strategy meetings': Former IPL coach recalls his first conversation with MS Dhoni De Villiers is not a part of IPL 2022 as he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this year. The South African great will go down as one of the greatest to have played in the IPL but will regret that fact that he never managed to lift the IPL trophy despite having an illustrious career.

'They know how to win games': AB de Villiers predicts winner of IPL 2022 opener between CSK and KKR

Defending champions Chennai Super Kings will be going into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 against last year’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders with two significant gaps in their playing XI.

Deepak Chahar, who was the most expensive buy for CSK in the auction this year, will be missing a major chunk of the tournament after picking up a quadriceps injury while England all-rounder Moeen Ali was also ruled out of the season opener after arriving late due to visa issues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-csk-vs-kkr-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-465662">IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head-to-Head&nbsp;record, trivia, stats and squads</a>

It will also be the first match as captain for all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after MS Dhoni stepped down from the role ahead of the tournament. Dhoni led the franchise since the start of the tournament in 2008 and the pressure will be on Jadeja to prove his mettle as the new leader of the franchise.

With no Faf du Plessis this year, New Zealand opener Devon&nbsp;Conway is expected to open the batting along with young star Ruturaj Gaikwad. The middle-order will see a number of familiar CSK faces in Ambati Rayudu and Robin Uthappa but the new addition will be the all-rounder Shivam Dube.

Dube was picked up in the auction for INR 4 crore and he is expected to bat at No. 5 ahead of veteran MS Dhoni and the all-rounder duo of skipper Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-465639" hreflang="en">CSK vs KKR prediction: Who will win today's IPL 2022 opener?</a>

In the bowling department, Adam Milne is expected to lead the pack in the absence of Chahar and he will be joined by youngster Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Sri Lanka spinner Maheesh Theekshana.

CSK predicted XI: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon&nbsp;Conway, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Adam Milne, Maheesh Theekshana

Defending champions Chennai Super Kings will be going into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 against last year’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders with two significant gaps in their playing XI.

Defending champions Chennai Super Kings will be going into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 against last year’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders with two significant gaps in their playing XI. Deepak Chahar, who was the most expensive buy for CSK in the auction this year, will be missing a major chunk of the tournament after picking up a quadriceps injury while England all-rounder Moeen Ali was also ruled out of the season opener after arriving late due to visa issues. Also read | IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head-to-Head record, trivia, stats and squads It will also be the first match as captain for all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after MS Dhoni stepped down from the role ahead of the tournament. Dhoni led the franchise since the start of the tournament in 2008 and the pressure will be on Jadeja to prove his mettle as the new leader of the franchise. With no Faf du Plessis this year, New Zealand opener Devon Conway is expected to open the batting along with young star Ruturaj Gaikwad. The middle-order will see a number of familiar CSK faces in Ambati Rayudu and Robin Uthappa but the new addition will be the all-rounder Shivam Dube. Dube was picked up in the auction for INR 4 crore and he is expected to bat at No. 5 ahead of veteran MS Dhoni and the all-rounder duo of skipper Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo. Also read | CSK vs KKR prediction: Who will win today's IPL 2022 opener? In the bowling department, Adam Milne is expected to lead the pack in the absence of Chahar and he will be joined by youngster Rajvardhan Hangargekar and Sri Lanka spinner Maheesh Theekshana. CSK predicted XI: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Adam Milne, Maheesh Theekshana

Devon Conway to open with Ruturaj Gaikwad? CSK's predicted playing XI for IPL 2022 opener against KKR

Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer. 
It will be the first time since 2011 that 10 teams be fighting it out for the most coveted T20 trophy in world cricket.

Two new entrants, Lucknow Supergiants and Gujarat Titans, fetching a combined price of approximately USD 1.7 billion shows that brand IPL keeps getting bigger.

It took 14 years but the league has now well and truly gone global.

The owners of the iconic Manchester Untied also wanted a slice of the IPL pie but lost to the RPSG Group and Britain-based CVC group on the bidding table.

With the COVID situation under control in the country, the board's top-brass can breathe easy and after a two year gap, IPL is set to be held in India in its entirety with at least 25 percent capacity of crowd allowed in stadiums this season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-465639">CSK vs KKR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders match?</a>

The number of games have been increased to 74 from 60 with the addition of new teams, extending the IPL window to over two months.

All teams however will play 14 games each like in the past but will a longer tournament impact the intensity and quality of cricket, only time will tell.

The board has learnt from the harsh lessons of the 2021 edition when the tournament had to be suspended midway due to the raging pandemic and could only be completed in the UAE four months later.

No air travel will be required this season with all the league games to be organised in four venues in Maharashtra (three Mumbai and one in Pune).

For curators, maintaining the trueness of pitches over two months will be a challenge but at least the half of the tournament is set to be a high-scoring affair.

One can expect more bounce on the red soil pitches of Wankhede, CCI and D Y Patil while the black soil surface in Pune is expected to offer more turn.

With Supergiants and Titans building their teams from scratch and the existing franchises having to release a chunk of their players before the mega auction, the 2022 edition can well be one of the most competitive in tournament history.

Ahead of the World Cup to be played in Australia later this year, the IPL will also decided fate of a few Indian players.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli share a heartwarming hug as legends catch up ahead of IPL 2022 opener - WATCH">MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli share a heartwarming hug as legends catch up ahead of IPL 2022 opener - WATCH</a>

No home advantage for MI? 
 
Rohit Sharma has insisted that there will be no home advantage for Mumbai Indians but he and the likes of Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah and Ishan Kishan won't certainly mind playing in their own backyard.

Having let of go of Pandya brothers and Trent Boult, the team doesn't look the same formidable outfit at least on paper.

At Royal Challengers Bangalore, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli like usual, though, he has happily relinquished the captaincy.

With the burden of leading the side off his shoulders, the former India skipper is expected to come back to his batting best and play an important role in taking the team to its elusive title.

Longtime CSK batter Faf du Plessis has been given the captaincy with a hope that he would be able to do what has not been done before at RCB.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ravi-shastri-has-his-say-on-virat-kohlis-batting-position-for-royal-challengers-bangalore-465542">IPL 2022: Ravi Shastri has his say on Virat Kohli's batting position for Royal Challengers Bangalore</a>

Farewell season for Dhoni?

Dhoni has done a Dhoni by giving up CSK captaincy three days before their opening game. While his decision did not come as a shock, it has fuelled speculation whether he would feature in all the games.

The 40-year-old stepping aside has also put the spotlight on Ravindra Jadeja, who will be captaining a high-profile team for the very first time.

Jadeja's stellar form in international cricket over the last couple of years would surely give him the confidence to lead from the front and in times of crisis, he will anyway have Dhoni by his side.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-liam-livingstone-reveals-his-position-in-punjab-kings-batting-order-465520">IPL 2022: Liam Livingstone opens up about preferred position in Punjab Kings batting order</a>

Time for Iyer, K L and Hardik to enhance captaincy credentials

Having led Delhi Capitals to their first ever final, Iyer was sidelined from captaincy following a shoulder injury. He decided to go back into the auction and KKR paid big money for his services.

The stylish batter has shown rich form for India of late and he will be hoping to carry that into the IPL and inspire KKR to their third title.

His India teammate Hardik Pandya's progress will be followed closely over the course of the IPL. Having lost his place in the Indian team due to his inability to bowl regularly following a back surgery in 2019, Hardik has a point to prove.

It is still not clear if he would bowl often in the IPL, making his form with the bat all the more crucial. Either way, he will have to come up with something special to resurrect his career and also ensure first-timers Gujarat put up a competitive show.

Hardik's close friend K L Rahul will also need to inspire a young unit. Success eluding him as captain, both at India and IPL level, the opener will be eyeing another prolific season with the bat besides leading an exciting bunch of cricketers.

Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer. It will be the first time since 2011 that 10 teams be fighting it out for the most coveted T20 trophy in world cricket.

Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer. It will be the first time since 2011 that 10 teams be fighting it out for the most coveted T20 trophy in world cricket. Two new entrants, Lucknow Supergiants and Gujarat Titans, fetching a combined price of approximately USD 1.7 billion shows that brand IPL keeps getting bigger. It took 14 years but the league has now well and truly gone global. The owners of the iconic Manchester Untied also wanted a slice of the IPL pie but lost to the RPSG Group and Britain-based CVC group on the bidding table. With the COVID situation under control in the country, the board's top-brass can breathe easy and after a two year gap, IPL is set to be held in India in its entirety with at least 25 percent capacity of crowd allowed in stadiums this season. ALSO READ: CSK vs KKR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders match? The number of games have been increased to 74 from 60 with the addition of new teams, extending the IPL window to over two months. All teams however will play 14 games each like in the past but will a longer tournament impact the intensity and quality of cricket, only time will tell. The board has learnt from the harsh lessons of the 2021 edition when the tournament had to be suspended midway due to the raging pandemic and could only be completed in the UAE four months later. No air travel will be required this season with all the league games to be organised in four venues in Maharashtra (three Mumbai and one in Pune). For curators, maintaining the trueness of pitches over two months will be a challenge but at least the half of the tournament is set to be a high-scoring affair. One can expect more bounce on the red soil pitches of Wankhede, CCI and D Y Patil while the black soil surface in Pune is expected to offer more turn. With Supergiants and Titans building their teams from scratch and the existing franchises having to release a chunk of their players before the mega auction, the 2022 edition can well be one of the most competitive in tournament history. Ahead of the World Cup to be played in Australia later this year, the IPL will also decided fate of a few Indian players. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli share a heartwarming hug as legends catch up ahead of IPL 2022 opener - WATCH No home advantage for MI? Rohit Sharma has insisted that there will be no home advantage for Mumbai Indians but he and the likes of Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah and Ishan Kishan won't certainly mind playing in their own backyard. Having let of go of Pandya brothers and Trent Boult, the team doesn't look the same formidable outfit at least on paper. At Royal Challengers Bangalore, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli like usual, though, he has happily relinquished the captaincy. With the burden of leading the side off his shoulders, the former India skipper is expected to come back to his batting best and play an important role in taking the team to its elusive title. Longtime CSK batter Faf du Plessis has been given the captaincy with a hope that he would be able to do what has not been done before at RCB. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Ravi Shastri has his say on Virat Kohli's batting position for Royal Challengers Bangalore Farewell season for Dhoni? Dhoni has done a Dhoni by giving up CSK captaincy three days before their opening game. While his decision did not come as a shock, it has fuelled speculation whether he would feature in all the games. The 40-year-old stepping aside has also put the spotlight on Ravindra Jadeja, who will be captaining a high-profile team for the very first time. Jadeja's stellar form in international cricket over the last couple of years would surely give him the confidence to lead from the front and in times of crisis, he will anyway have Dhoni by his side. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Liam Livingstone opens up about preferred position in Punjab Kings batting order Time for Iyer, K L and Hardik to enhance captaincy credentials Having led Delhi Capitals to their first ever final, Iyer was sidelined from captaincy following a shoulder injury. He decided to go back into the auction and KKR paid big money for his services. The stylish batter has shown rich form for India of late and he will be hoping to carry that into the IPL and inspire KKR to their third title. His India teammate Hardik Pandya's progress will be followed closely over the course of the IPL. Having lost his place in the Indian team due to his inability to bowl regularly following a back surgery in 2019, Hardik has a point to prove. It is still not clear if he would bowl often in the IPL, making his form with the bat all the more crucial. Either way, he will have to come up with something special to resurrect his career and also ensure first-timers Gujarat put up a competitive show. Hardik's close friend K L Rahul will also need to inspire a young unit. Success eluding him as captain, both at India and IPL level, the opener will be eyeing another prolific season with the bat besides leading an exciting bunch of cricketers.

Indian cricket's crown jewel, the IPL, is back home: bigger, better and longer

It will mark a new dawn in the Indian Premier League (IPL) when Ravindra Jadeja and Shreyas Iyer lead their respective teams out in the opening game of IPL 2022 on Saturday (March 26). While Jadeja will be in charge of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) having replaced the legendary MS Dhoni at the helm, Iyer will be captaining the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the first time.

The two teams had last met in the final of IPL 2022 last year where CSK came out on top against KKR to lift their fourth IPL trophy. Dhoni is no more in charge of the side but will continue being a leader in the CSK squad and play as a pure wicket-keeper batter this season.

Eoin Morgan, who had led KKR to the final last season, is no more part of the squad. KKR have revamped their team significantly with the additions of the likes of Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Sam Billings, Chamika Karunaratne and Aaron Finch among others this time around.

CSK, meanwhile have managed to retain their core squad from their title-winning campaign last year as they have managed to get back the likes of Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, Dwayne Bravo and Robin Uthappa among others. Both teams will be missing the services of a couple of their key players in the opener.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-465639">CSK vs KKR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders match?</a>

While CSK will be without the services of injured Deepak Chahar and all-rounder Moeen Ali due to quarantine guidelines, KKR will not have Aaron Finch and Pat Cummins for their first game of the season. Nonetheless, both teams will be looking to make a winning start to their campaign at the Wankhede Stadium.

Here is all you need to know about IPL 2022 opener between CSK and KKR:

Head to head:

Chennai Super Kings hold a clear edge over the Kolkata Knight Riders when it comes to the head to head record between the two sides. CSK have won a staggering 14 time in 25 meetings between the two teams so far in the IPL. KKR have just eight wins to their name against CSK.

Stats:

Former CSK captain MS Dhoni holds the record for most runs against KKR by any CSK batter in the current squad. Dhoni has 501 runs in 29 matches against KKR. KKR's Andre Russell is the highest run-getter against CSK from the current KKR squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-and-virat-kohli-share-a-heartwarming-hug-as-legends-catch-up-ahead-of-ipl-2022-opener-watch-465629">MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli share a heartwarming hug as legends catch up ahead of IPL 2022 opener - WATCH</a>

Trivia:

Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders last met in the final of the Indian Premier League in 2021. MS Dhoni-led CSK defeated KKR by 27 runs in the final to lift their fourth IPL trophy at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

Squads:

Chennai Super Kings: Ravindra Jadeja (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Devon Conway, Ambati Rayudu, Shivam Dube, Dwayne Bravo, Chris Jordan, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Maheesh Theekshana, Adam Milne, Mitchell Santner, Tushar Deshpande, Hari Nishanth, N Jagadeesan, Subhranshu Senapati, Prashant Solanki, Mukesh Choudhary, KM Asif, Simarjeet Singh, Bhagath Varma

Kolkata Knight Riders: Shreyas Iyer (c), Sam Billings (wk), Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Chamika Karunaratne, Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Umesh Yadav, Rasikh Salam, Mohammad Nabi, Sheldon Jackson, Baba Indrajith, Rinku Singh, Tim Southee, Anukul Roy, Pratham Singh, Abhijeet Tomar, Aman Hakim Khan, Ashok Sharma, Ramesh Kumar 
&nbsp;

It will mark a new dawn in the Indian Premier League (IPL) when Ravindra Jadeja and Shreyas Iyer lead their respective teams out in the opening game of IPL 2022 on Saturday (March 26).

It will mark a new dawn in the Indian Premier League (IPL) when Ravindra Jadeja and Shreyas Iyer lead their respective teams out in the opening game of IPL 2022 on Saturday (March 26). While Jadeja will be in charge of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) having replaced the legendary MS Dhoni at the helm, Iyer will be captaining the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the first time. The two teams had last met in the final of IPL 2022 last year where CSK came out on top against KKR to lift their fourth IPL trophy. Dhoni is no more in charge of the side but will continue being a leader in the CSK squad and play as a pure wicket-keeper batter this season. Eoin Morgan, who had led KKR to the final last season, is no more part of the squad. KKR have revamped their team significantly with the additions of the likes of Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Sam Billings, Chamika Karunaratne and Aaron Finch among others this time around. CSK, meanwhile have managed to retain their core squad from their title-winning campaign last year as they have managed to get back the likes of Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, Dwayne Bravo and Robin Uthappa among others. Both teams will be missing the services of a couple of their key players in the opener. Also Read: CSK vs KKR, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders match? While CSK will be without the services of injured Deepak Chahar and all-rounder Moeen Ali due to quarantine guidelines, KKR will not have Aaron Finch and Pat Cummins for their first game of the season. Nonetheless, both teams will be looking to make a winning start to their campaign at the Wankhede Stadium. Here is all you need to know about IPL 2022 opener between CSK and KKR: Head to head: Chennai Super Kings hold a clear edge over the Kolkata Knight Riders when it comes to the head to head record between the two sides. CSK have won a staggering 14 time in 25 meetings between the two teams so far in the IPL. KKR have just eight wins to their name against CSK. Stats: Former CSK captain MS Dhoni holds the record for most runs against KKR by any CSK batter in the current squad. Dhoni has 501 runs in 29 matches against KKR. KKR's Andre Russell is the highest run-getter against CSK from the current KKR squad. Also Read: MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli share a heartwarming hug as legends catch up ahead of IPL 2022 opener - WATCH Trivia: Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders last met in the final of the Indian Premier League in 2021. MS Dhoni-led CSK defeated KKR by 27 runs in the final to lift their fourth IPL trophy at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. Squads: Chennai Super Kings: Ravindra Jadeja (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Devon Conway, Ambati Rayudu, Shivam Dube, Dwayne Bravo, Chris Jordan, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Maheesh Theekshana, Adam Milne, Mitchell Santner, Tushar Deshpande, Hari Nishanth, N Jagadeesan, Subhranshu Senapati, Prashant Solanki, Mukesh Choudhary, KM Asif, Simarjeet Singh, Bhagath Varma Kolkata Knight Riders: Shreyas Iyer (c), Sam Billings (wk), Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Chamika Karunaratne, Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Umesh Yadav, Rasikh Salam, Mohammad Nabi, Sheldon Jackson, Baba Indrajith, Rinku Singh, Tim Southee, Anukul Roy, Pratham Singh, Abhijeet Tomar, Aman Hakim Khan, Ashok Sharma, Ramesh Kumar

IPL 2022: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

Faf du Plessis will be leading Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 but his addition to the squad has raised debates on whether Virat Kohli will be opening the innings for the franchise.

Faf is being considered a confirmed opening batsman for RCB but questions remain over the batting position for former skipper Virat Kohli.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-man-the-legacy-ipl-shares-heartfelt-journey-of-ms-dhoni-as-csk-captain-post-sudden-resignation-465498" hreflang="en">IPL shares heartfelt journey of MS Dhoni as CSK captain - WATCH</a>

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that Kohli should open the batting alongside Faf if RCB’s middle order is strong enough. Shastri said that it will all depend on the balance of the team.<o:p></o:p>

"That depends on the balance of the team. I wouldn't know what their middle order is, but just in case they've got a very strong middle order, then there's no harm in Virat opening," Shastri told EspnCricinfo.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ipl-2022-rishabh-pant-needs-to-maintain-his-aggressive-edge-for-dc-says-ricky-ponting-465468" hreflang="en">Pant needs to maintain his aggressive edge for DC, says Ponting</a>

Kohli opened the innings alongside Devdutt Padikkal last season and in 2016, it was the same position where he scored a record 973 runs in a season. However, with no AB de Villiers and a bunch of new faces in the middle order, a lot of experts believe that Kohli can decide to bat at No 3.<o:p></o:p>

RCB will begin their campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27. They will then face Kolkata Knight Riders on March 30 in their second game. Ahead of the season, Kohli decided to leave the captaincy role and RCB decided to go with the experience of Faf. The South Africa international was the second highest run-scorer for Chennai Super Kings last season as they cruised to their fourth IPL title.<o:p></o:p>

Faf du Plessis will be leading Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 but his addition to the squad has raised debates on whether Virat Kohli will be opening the innings for the franchise.

Faf du Plessis will be leading Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 but his addition to the squad has raised debates on whether Virat Kohli will be opening the innings for the franchise. Faf is being considered a confirmed opening batsman for RCB but questions remain over the batting position for former skipper Virat Kohli. Also read | IPL shares heartfelt journey of MS Dhoni as CSK captain - WATCH Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that Kohli should open the batting alongside Faf if RCB’s middle order is strong enough. Shastri said that it will all depend on the balance of the team. "That depends on the balance of the team. I wouldn't know what their middle order is, but just in case they've got a very strong middle order, then there's no harm in Virat opening," Shastri told EspnCricinfo. Also read | Pant needs to maintain his aggressive edge for DC, says Ponting Kohli opened the innings alongside Devdutt Padikkal last season and in 2016, it was the same position where he scored a record 973 runs in a season. However, with no AB de Villiers and a bunch of new faces in the middle order, a lot of experts believe that Kohli can decide to bat at No 3. RCB will begin their campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27. They will then face Kolkata Knight Riders on March 30 in their second game. Ahead of the season, Kohli decided to leave the captaincy role and RCB decided to go with the experience of Faf. The South Africa international was the second highest run-scorer for Chennai Super Kings last season as they cruised to their fourth IPL title.

IPL 2022: Ravi Shastri has his say on Virat Kohli's batting position for Royal Challengers Bangalore

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been witnessed a change in fortunes and have become a force to reckon with ever since the arrival of head coach Ricky Ponting. The former Australia captain had joined the franchise as the head coach in 2018 and has since led them to consecutive playoffs in the last three seasons. DC also made it to their maiden IPL final under Ponting's guidance in the year 2020.

From taking a bold step to hand over the captaincy reins to a young Shreyas Iyer after Gautam Gambhir's resignation from the post midway through the 2018 season to building a fabulous core of players, Ponting has masterminded Delhi Capitals' meteoric rise in the last few seasons.

The two-time World Cup-winning captain is one of the best coaches in the world at present but is yet to inspire his side to their maiden IPL title. Delhi Capitals, who have been part of the tournament since its inception in 2008, are yet to lift their first trophy despite having undergone a massive transformation over the last few years.

Ahead of the start of IPL 2022, Delhi Capitals face fresh challenges as they no more have the likes of former captain Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan and Kagiso Rabada among others, who played key roles in helping them dominate the proceedings in the last three seasons. However, with Rishabh Pant as their permanent captain and a great mix of youth and experience in their squad, DC are raring to go again.

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Speaking to WION, Ponting insisted he is not with Delhi Capitals to just take part in the IPL but to win the tournament. The former Australia captain said it remains one of his biggest goals to take Delhi Capitals to their maiden title and give the players a chance to pull off something special this season.

"Yes, and we have been close. We have been close in the last few seasons. We lost the final two seasons back and finished on top of the table last year but unfortunately, we lost our two playoffs games to go out but absolutely. I am not here to just participate in the tournament that's one thing I have told the boys all the time and everyone here at this franchise is we are not here to just participate, we are here to win," Ponting said in an exclusive interaction with WION.

"Delhi Capitals has never won the IPL. That's a big responsibility and a big goal of mine to give these players every possible chance to achieve something special at the end of the tournament," added the Delhi Capitals head coach.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-kl-rahul-to-ruturaj-gaikwad-top-five-contenders-for-orange-cap-in-ipl-2022-464619">From KL Rahul to Ruturaj Gaikwad: Top five contenders for Orange Cap in IPL 2022</a>

Ever since its inception in 2008, IPL has grown into one of the best cricketing tournaments in the world at present. IPL has provided a platform for several young and talented cricketers who have gone on to become big names on the international stage. The tournament has also witnessed immense growth in terms of financial prowess and is currently the richest&nbsp;T20 league in the world.

Speaking about the tremendous growth that IPL has managed to achieve over the last 14 seasons, Ponting said it amazes him how the tournament still continues to grow every year. The former Australia captain also explained how IPL's success has&nbsp;paved the way for other nations to start their own T20 leagues to try and achieve the kind of success IPL has.

"It has been an extraordinary tournament already. Coming towards the end of my career when T20 cricket first burst onto the scene, I remember Australia playing New Zealand in the first-ever T20 international game, I must admit back then I thought that t20 cricket at the international level was going to be a showpiece to try and promote the other formats of the game. But look it has grown and grown. I am really staggered at how IPL finds a way to continue to grow year on year.," Ponting said when asked how IPL has changed the way cricket was played. 
&nbsp; 
"The TV rights (of the IPL) they are up soon and I am sure there is going to be a huge war there to see who bags the television rights. I think as a result of how successful the IPL has been through a long period of time, every other country is now trying to mimic or do exactly what the IPL has done," explained.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-a-look-at-the-veterans-captaincy-record-for-chennai-super-kings-465141">MS Dhoni: A look at the veteran's captaincy record for Chennai Super Kings</a>

<h3>Leading Delhi Capitals to the final one of the best moments of my career: Ponting</h3>

The former Aussie skipper, who led his country to back-to-back ODI World Cup triumphs in 2003 and 2007 while also winning several other major tournaments as a leader, said he has enjoyed some of the best moments of his career in the IPL.

Leading Delhi Capitals to their maiden IPL final in 2020 and helping them top the table last year are some of the achievements which Ponting counts among the best he has achieved in his career.

"It has been awesome, and great to be a part of the tournament. I have been part of the IPL for probably 7-8 years now and it has been some of the best times I have had. Leading this franchise into the final and then finishing on top of the table last year, those are some of the best moments I have had in the game and I have been lucky to win World Cups and do pretty special things," said Ponting.

"But when you are here part of this tournament and you have success here, it certainly ranks higher among all other things I have achieved in the game," he added.

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Delhi Capitals (DC) have been witnessed a change in fortunes and have become a force to reckon with ever since the arrival of head coach Ricky Ponting. The former Australia captain had joined the franchise as the head coach in 2018 and has since led them to consecutive playoffs in the last three seasons.

Delhi Capitals (DC) have been witnessed a change in fortunes and have become a force to reckon with ever since the arrival of head coach Ricky Ponting. The former Australia captain had joined the franchise as the head coach in 2018 and has since led them to consecutive playoffs in the last three seasons. DC also made it to their maiden IPL final under Ponting's guidance in the year 2020. From taking a bold step to hand over the captaincy reins to a young Shreyas Iyer after Gautam Gambhir's resignation from the post midway through the 2018 season to building a fabulous core of players, Ponting has masterminded Delhi Capitals' meteoric rise in the last few seasons. The two-time World Cup-winning captain is one of the best coaches in the world at present but is yet to inspire his side to their maiden IPL title. Delhi Capitals, who have been part of the tournament since its inception in 2008, are yet to lift their first trophy despite having undergone a massive transformation over the last few years. Ahead of the start of IPL 2022, Delhi Capitals face fresh challenges as they no more have the likes of former captain Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan and Kagiso Rabada among others, who played key roles in helping them dominate the proceedings in the last three seasons. However, with Rishabh Pant as their permanent captain and a great mix of youth and experience in their squad, DC are raring to go again. × Speaking to WION, Ponting insisted he is not with Delhi Capitals to just take part in the IPL but to win the tournament. The former Australia captain said it remains one of his biggest goals to take Delhi Capitals to their maiden title and give the players a chance to pull off something special this season. "Yes, and we have been close. We have been close in the last few seasons. We lost the final two seasons back and finished on top of the table last year but unfortunately, we lost our two playoffs games to go out but absolutely. I am not here to just participate in the tournament that's one thing I have told the boys all the time and everyone here at this franchise is we are not here to just participate, we are here to win," Ponting said in an exclusive interaction with WION. "Delhi Capitals has never won the IPL. That's a big responsibility and a big goal of mine to give these players every possible chance to achieve something special at the end of the tournament," added the Delhi Capitals head coach. Also Read: From KL Rahul to Ruturaj Gaikwad: Top five contenders for Orange Cap in IPL 2022 Ever since its inception in 2008, IPL has grown into one of the best cricketing tournaments in the world at present. IPL has provided a platform for several young and talented cricketers who have gone on to become big names on the international stage. The tournament has also witnessed immense growth in terms of financial prowess and is currently the richest T20 league in the world. Speaking about the tremendous growth that IPL has managed to achieve over the last 14 seasons, Ponting said it amazes him how the tournament still continues to grow every year. The former Australia captain also explained how IPL's success has paved the way for other nations to start their own T20 leagues to try and achieve the kind of success IPL has. "It has been an extraordinary tournament already. Coming towards the end of my career when T20 cricket first burst onto the scene, I remember Australia playing New Zealand in the first-ever T20 international game, I must admit back then I thought that t20 cricket at the international level was going to be a showpiece to try and promote the other formats of the game. But look it has grown and grown. I am really staggered at how IPL finds a way to continue to grow year on year.," Ponting said when asked how IPL has changed the way cricket was played. "The TV rights (of the IPL) they are up soon and I am sure there is going to be a huge war there to see who bags the television rights. I think as a result of how successful the IPL has been through a long period of time, every other country is now trying to mimic or do exactly what the IPL has done," explained. Also Read: MS Dhoni: A look at the veteran's captaincy record for Chennai Super Kings Leading Delhi Capitals to the final one of the best moments of my career: Ponting The former Aussie skipper, who led his country to back-to-back ODI World Cup triumphs in 2003 and 2007 while also winning several other major tournaments as a leader, said he has enjoyed some of the best moments of his career in the IPL. Leading Delhi Capitals to their maiden IPL final in 2020 and helping them top the table last year are some of the achievements which Ponting counts among the best he has achieved in his career. "It has been awesome, and great to be a part of the tournament. I have been part of the IPL for probably 7-8 years now and it has been some of the best times I have had. Leading this franchise into the final and then finishing on top of the table last year, those are some of the best moments I have had in the game and I have been lucky to win World Cups and do pretty special things," said Ponting. "But when you are here part of this tournament and you have success here, it certainly ranks higher among all other things I have achieved in the game," he added. ×

Exclusive! Not here to just participate, leading Delhi Capitals to maiden IPL title a big goal: Ricky Ponting

The BCCI is planning to start the Women's IPL by 2023, Board President Sourav Ganguly said on Friday while four exhibition games make a return this season after a one-year gap.

The BCCI, which has been criticised in the past for not starting the Women's IPL, will need AGM's approval to kickstart the league next season. The Board is planning to have five or six teams in the inaugural edition.

"It (the full-fledged women's IPL) has to be approved by the AGM. We plan to start it by next year hopefully," BCCI president Sourav Ganguly told reporters after the IPL Governing Council meeting here on Friday.

In an interview to PTI in February, Ganguly had said that Women's IPL will be launched in 2023.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-suryakumar-yadav-can-cement-his-spot-in-team-india-says-sunil-gavaskar-465507">IPL 2022: Suryakumar Yadav can cement his spot in Team India, says Sunil Gavaskar</a>

IPL chairman Brijesh Patel also made it clear that this season there will be four matches for the three women teams around men's IPL play-offs.

"There will be four matches involving three teams around the time of the playoffs," Patel said after the meeting.

With the second half of the IPL being shifted to the UAE due to the pandemic, the exhibitions games were not held last year. However, they were staged in the UAE in 2020 when IPL Trailblazers won the title. 
 
According to Patel, there would be five or six teams in the Women's IPL but again that would need approval of the General Body.

The most likely venue for the women's exhibitions games is Pune.

The IPL starts on Saturday with defending champions Chennai Super Kings up against Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Wankhede stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-man-the-legacy-ipl-shares-heartfelt-journey-of-ms-dhoni-as-csk-captain-post-sudden-resignation-465498">The man, the legacy: IPL shares heartfelt journey of MS Dhoni as CSK captain post sudden resignation</a>

IPL media rights tender to be out soon

The issue of IPL media rights for the 2023-2027 cycle was also discussed by the Governing Council.

"The tender will be out soon," said a Governing Council member.

Star India had paid a whopping Rs 16,347.5 crore for the 2018-2022 cycle. With the league's popularity soaring and the addition of two new teams, that number could touch a staggering Rs 40,000 crore for the upcoming five-year cycle.

Companies interested in securing the rights to India cricket's hottest property include Reliance backed Viacom 18, current right holders Disney Star, Sony (which had paid Rs 8200 for nine years, back in 2009) and streaming giant Amazon which could bid for the digital rights.

The BCCI is planning to start the Women's IPL by 2023, Board President Sourav Ganguly said on Friday while four exhibition games make a return this season after a one-year gap.

The BCCI is planning to start the Women's IPL by 2023, Board President Sourav Ganguly said on Friday while four exhibition games make a return this season after a one-year gap. The BCCI, which has been criticised in the past for not starting the Women's IPL, will need AGM's approval to kickstart the league next season. The Board is planning to have five or six teams in the inaugural edition. "It (the full-fledged women's IPL) has to be approved by the AGM. We plan to start it by next year hopefully," BCCI president Sourav Ganguly told reporters after the IPL Governing Council meeting here on Friday. In an interview to PTI in February, Ganguly had said that Women's IPL will be launched in 2023. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Suryakumar Yadav can cement his spot in Team India, says Sunil Gavaskar IPL chairman Brijesh Patel also made it clear that this season there will be four matches for the three women teams around men's IPL play-offs. "There will be four matches involving three teams around the time of the playoffs," Patel said after the meeting. With the second half of the IPL being shifted to the UAE due to the pandemic, the exhibitions games were not held last year. However, they were staged in the UAE in 2020 when IPL Trailblazers won the title. According to Patel, there would be five or six teams in the Women's IPL but again that would need approval of the General Body. The most likely venue for the women's exhibitions games is Pune. The IPL starts on Saturday with defending champions Chennai Super Kings up against Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Wankhede stadium. ALSO READ: The man, the legacy: IPL shares heartfelt journey of MS Dhoni as CSK captain post sudden resignation IPL media rights tender to be out soon The issue of IPL media rights for the 2023-2027 cycle was also discussed by the Governing Council. "The tender will be out soon," said a Governing Council member. Star India had paid a whopping Rs 16,347.5 crore for the 2018-2022 cycle. With the league's popularity soaring and the addition of two new teams, that number could touch a staggering Rs 40,000 crore for the upcoming five-year cycle. Companies interested in securing the rights to India cricket's hottest property include Reliance backed Viacom 18, current right holders Disney Star, Sony (which had paid Rs 8200 for nine years, back in 2009) and streaming giant Amazon which could bid for the digital rights.

BCCI plans to start six-team Women's IPL from next year

Liam Livingstone is a name that is synonymous with T20 leagues around the world. The England all-rounder is well known for his aggressive batting for franchises in various countries and thanks to his brilliant performances, he was picked by Punjab Kings ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.<o:p></o:p>

Livingstone commanded an impressive price of INR 11.5 crore as multiple franchises went for him and ahead of the tournament, he ended the suspense regarding his position in the batting order.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-suryakumar-yadav-can-cement-his-spot-in-team-india-says-sunil-gavaskar-465507" hreflang="en">Suryakumar Yadav can cement his spot in Team India, says Sunil Gavaskar</a>

"I know where I am going to bat anyway. I am going to bat in the middle-order so it would be stupid of me to say otherwise. I'm probably going to bat at 4 or 5. The team is always bigger than the individual and you've got to fit into a role which the team needs you and I think Punjab Kings are going to need me in the middle order role so that's where I am focused. I haven't even thought about anywhere else. The team is really important and I'm excited; hope I can finish off games while batting second or post a big total batting first," Livingstone told Sports Tak.<o:p></o:p>

Livingstone was the fourth costliest player in this year’s auction after Ishan Kishan (Mumbai Indians), Deepak Chahar (Chennai Super Kings) and Shreyas Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders). However, the England international made it clear that he will not be intimidated by the massive price tag.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ipl-2022-rishabh-pant-needs-to-maintain-his-aggressive-edge-for-dc-says-ricky-ponting-465468" hreflang="en">Pant needs to maintain his aggressive edge for DC, says Ponting</a>

“We are picked as cricketers to come in and do our jobs, which is to score runs and take wickets and catches. So I think the monetary value is irrelevant. I've played in the last couple of years for not a lot. The IPL is the biggest tournament in the world and I’m just really excited to get going,” he said.<o:p></o:p>

Punjab Kings will begin their IPL 2022 campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 27.<o:p></o:p>

Liam Livingstone is a name that is synonymous with T20 leagues around the world. The England all-rounder is well known for his aggressive batting for franchises in various countries and thanks to his brilliant performances, he was picked by Punjab Kings ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Liam Livingstone is a name that is synonymous with T20 leagues around the world. The England all-rounder is well known for his aggressive batting for franchises in various countries and thanks to his brilliant performances, he was picked by Punjab Kings ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Livingstone commanded an impressive price of INR 11.5 crore as multiple franchises went for him and ahead of the tournament, he ended the suspense regarding his position in the batting order. Also read | Suryakumar Yadav can cement his spot in Team India, says Sunil Gavaskar "I know where I am going to bat anyway. I am going to bat in the middle-order so it would be stupid of me to say otherwise. I'm probably going to bat at 4 or 5. The team is always bigger than the individual and you've got to fit into a role which the team needs you and I think Punjab Kings are going to need me in the middle order role so that's where I am focused. I haven't even thought about anywhere else. The team is really important and I'm excited; hope I can finish off games while batting second or post a big total batting first," Livingstone told Sports Tak. Livingstone was the fourth costliest player in this year’s auction after Ishan Kishan (Mumbai Indians), Deepak Chahar (Chennai Super Kings) and Shreyas Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders). However, the England international made it clear that he will not be intimidated by the massive price tag. Also read | Pant needs to maintain his aggressive edge for DC, says Ponting “We are picked as cricketers to come in and do our jobs, which is to score runs and take wickets and catches. So I think the monetary value is irrelevant. I've played in the last couple of years for not a lot. The IPL is the biggest tournament in the world and I’m just really excited to get going,” he said. Punjab Kings will begin their IPL 2022 campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 27.

IPL 2022: Liam Livingstone opens up about preferred position in Punjab Kings batting order

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 will be the perfect opportunity for Suryakumar Yadav to cement his position in the national side. <o:p></o:p>

Yadav was retained by Mumbai Indians ahead of the auction and he has been an integral part of their squad in the recent years. "It has been a wonderful last couple of seasons for Suryakumar Yadav and IPL 2022 is a great opportunity for him to cement his place in the Indian team by performing well again this season," said Gavaskar on the Star Sports show, The Gameplan.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-from-injuries-to-national-team-commitments-player-availability-for-all-teams-465401" hreflang="en">From injuries to national team commitments - Player availability for IPL 2022</a>

Yadav will miss the first game for Mumbai Indians as he is recovering for an injury.<o:p></o:p>

"The Indian team for the T20 World Cup will to a great extent be decided on IPL performances. So, Yadav has got this great opportunity to enhance his chances to be picked in the squad that flies to Australia," he added while taking about Yadav’s chances of being a regular for Team India.<o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar also said that David Warner does not need to prove his worth to anyone and he believes that Warner will have a good season after joining Delhi Capitals for the price of INR 6.5 crore.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ipl-2022-rishabh-pant-needs-to-maintain-his-aggressive-edge-for-dc-says-ricky-ponting-465468" hreflang="en">Pant needs to maintain his aggressive edge for DC, says Ponting</a>

"At this stage in Warner's career, he does not have to prove anything to anybody except himself. Last year was just one of those bad patches that every cricketer goes through, and he will contribute heavily with the bat for Delhi Capitals this time around," said the former India captain.<o:p></o:p>

Kolkata Knight Riders will face Chennai Super Kings in the opening match of IPL 2022 on March 26.<o:p></o:p>

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 will be the perfect opportunity for Suryakumar Yadav to cement his position in the national side.

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sunil Gavaskar believes that Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 will be the perfect opportunity for Suryakumar Yadav to cement his position in the national side. Yadav was retained by Mumbai Indians ahead of the auction and he has been an integral part of their squad in the recent years. "It has been a wonderful last couple of seasons for Suryakumar Yadav and IPL 2022 is a great opportunity for him to cement his place in the Indian team by performing well again this season," said Gavaskar on the Star Sports show, The Gameplan. Also read | From injuries to national team commitments - Player availability for IPL 2022 Yadav will miss the first game for Mumbai Indians as he is recovering for an injury. "The Indian team for the T20 World Cup will to a great extent be decided on IPL performances. So, Yadav has got this great opportunity to enhance his chances to be picked in the squad that flies to Australia," he added while taking about Yadav’s chances of being a regular for Team India. Gavaskar also said that David Warner does not need to prove his worth to anyone and he believes that Warner will have a good season after joining Delhi Capitals for the price of INR 6.5 crore. Also read | Pant needs to maintain his aggressive edge for DC, says Ponting "At this stage in Warner's career, he does not have to prove anything to anybody except himself. Last year was just one of those bad patches that every cricketer goes through, and he will contribute heavily with the bat for Delhi Capitals this time around," said the former India captain. Kolkata Knight Riders will face Chennai Super Kings in the opening match of IPL 2022 on March 26.

IPL 2022: Suryakumar Yadav can cement his spot in Team India, says Sunil Gavaskar

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