Gujarat Titans took another step towards the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) playoffs after they beat defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (April 21). Playing at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, GT beat KKR by 39 runs with Rashid Khan playing an important role. The win for GT now sees them top the IPL 2025 standings with 12 points as they target a place in the last four. After tge win Sai Kishore was full of praise for Rashid as he played a crucial role in the win.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">GT trust in Rashid Khan<o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;It's definitely great to see him back. As a team, we never doubted him&mdash;never doubted his abilities. He&rsquo;s the best T20 bowler in the world. I think he&rsquo;s taken the most wickets in the format - I'm not exactly sure about the stats, but I believe he&rsquo;s right up there. It&rsquo;s just good to have him back,&rdquo; Kishore said in the post-match press conference.<o:p></o:p>
Rashid has not been at his best in the IPL 2025, scalping just six wickets in the tournament. He has been hammered for runs as well at times having seen RCB batters score 54 against him in one of the earlier matches. However, a composed show with the ball on Monday has seen Rashid&rsquo;s critics get silent with the crucial phase in the IPL forthcoming.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-only-rohit-can-answer-that-australia-legend-steve-waugh-on-indian-captains-future-in-tests-8987418" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Only Rohit can answer that&rsquo;: Australia legend Steve Waugh on Indian captain&rsquo;s future in Tests</a> 
The contest against KKR also saw captain Shubman Gill make his mark on the contest as he scored 90 runs against his former side. Alongside Sai Sudharsan he stitched an opening stand of 114 runs before the latter was dismissed. <o:p></o:p>
GT have reached two IPL finals in the past, winning the tournament in 2022 in their debut appearance. GT are next in action next Monday as they face Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansing Stadium in Jaipur. On the other hand, KKR will have a tough run-in if they are to defend their crown as they face Punjab Kings on Saturday at the Eden Gardens.

India News | Sports: Gujarat Titans took another step towards the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) playoffs after they beat Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Gujarat Titans took another step towards the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) playoffs after they beat defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (April 21). Playing at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, GT beat KKR by 39 runs with Rashid Khan playing an important role. The win for GT now sees them top the IPL 2025 standings with 12 points as they target a place in the last four. After tge win Sai Kishore was full of praise for Rashid as he played a crucial role in the win. GT trust in Rashid Khan “It's definitely great to see him back. As a team, we never doubted him—never doubted his abilities. He’s the best T20 bowler in the world. I think he’s taken the most wickets in the format - I'm not exactly sure about the stats, but I believe he’s right up there. It’s just good to have him back,” Kishore said in the post-match press conference. Rashid has not been at his best in the IPL 2025, scalping just six wickets in the tournament. He has been hammered for runs as well at times having seen RCB batters score 54 against him in one of the earlier matches. However, a composed show with the ball on Monday has seen Rashid’s critics get silent with the crucial phase in the IPL forthcoming. ALSO READ | ‘Only Rohit can answer that’: Australia legend Steve Waugh on Indian captain’s future in Tests The contest against KKR also saw captain Shubman Gill make his mark on the contest as he scored 90 runs against his former side. Alongside Sai Sudharsan he stitched an opening stand of 114 runs before the latter was dismissed. GT have reached two IPL finals in the past, winning the tournament in 2022 in their debut appearance. GT are next in action next Monday as they face Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansing Stadium in Jaipur. On the other hand, KKR will have a tough run-in if they are to defend their crown as they face Punjab Kings on Saturday at the Eden Gardens.

IPL 2025: Sai Kishore trusts in-form Rashid Khan after GT's latest win, says 'we never doubted him'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings-csk" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> are languishing at the bottom of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> points table with just two wins from eight contested matches, but their captain, MS Dhoni, hasn&rsquo;t lost hope of a miraculous turnaround this season. During the away Mumbai Indians (MI) game at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-no-merry-for-ms-dhoni-in-mumbai-indians-thrash-csk-at-wankhede-by-nine-wickets-rohit-sharma-suryakumar-yadav-bumrah-8983486" rel="dofollow">CSK never looked in the game, going down by an embarrassing nine wickets</a>.
Dhoni feels CSK must win the remaining six matches to give themselves any chance of an IPL 2025 playoff berth and pick their best XI for the next season. Dhoni said CSK will take each game at a time without thinking too much about the future, but should they fumble their quest this edition, they would aim to set the base for the coming season.&nbsp;
"With all the games in front of us that we are supposed to win, we will just take it one game at a time," Dhoni said after the match. "And if we lose a few, what will be important for us [is] to get the right combination for next year. We don't want too many players getting changed. So I think what will be important is to try and qualify. But if not, get a secured eleven for the next year and come back strong."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-cab-seeks-ban-on-harsha-bhogle-simon-doull-from-doing-commentary-at-eden-gardens-report-kkr-pitch-curator-controversy-8985377" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Ban star commentators, demands Bengal cricket body over KKR pitch row - Report</a>
Meanwhile, MS Dhoni, 44, addressed his retirement rumours ahead of the 18th edition, saying his body will decide his future in the cash-rich league. With him thinking about preparing the best XI from the current squad for the next season, the chances of him retaining his place increase.
<h2>Fleming, too, is optimistic</h2>
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming also addressed the team&rsquo;s dismal performances this season, saying it&rsquo;s not easy to keep everyone motivated after such outcomes. However, like MS Dhoni, he is also not losing hope of turning the tables around this time, saying they are sure the opportunities will come in IPL 2025.&nbsp;
"It's hard, really. It's not when you're playing well below par to get enthusiastic about staying in the competition, but that's what we must do, and yes, there will be an opportunity. Nothing will be wasted during this tournament. We look back at other tournaments that haven't gone our way, and some of the work we have done at the back end of tournaments have set us up for wins in the following year,&rdquo; Fleming said during the post-match presser.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, CSK&rsquo;s next game is against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at home next Friday (Apr 25).&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

CSK's MS Dhoni, 44, addressed his retirement rumours ahead of the 18th edition, saying his body will decide his future in the cash-rich league. Sports, Cricket

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are languishing at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table with just two wins from eight contested matches, but their captain, MS Dhoni, hasn’t lost hope of a miraculous turnaround this season. During the away Mumbai Indians (MI) game at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, CSK never looked in the game, going down by an embarrassing nine wickets. Dhoni feels CSK must win the remaining six matches to give themselves any chance of an IPL 2025 playoff berth and pick their best XI for the next season. Dhoni said CSK will take each game at a time without thinking too much about the future, but should they fumble their quest this edition, they would aim to set the base for the coming season. "With all the games in front of us that we are supposed to win, we will just take it one game at a time," Dhoni said after the match. "And if we lose a few, what will be important for us [is] to get the right combination for next year. We don't want too many players getting changed. So I think what will be important is to try and qualify. But if not, get a secured eleven for the next year and come back strong." Also read | IPL 2025: Ban star commentators, demands Bengal cricket body over KKR pitch row - Report Meanwhile, MS Dhoni, 44, addressed his retirement rumours ahead of the 18th edition, saying his body will decide his future in the cash-rich league. With him thinking about preparing the best XI from the current squad for the next season, the chances of him retaining his place increase. Fleming, too, is optimistic CSK head coach Stephen Fleming also addressed the team’s dismal performances this season, saying it’s not easy to keep everyone motivated after such outcomes. However, like MS Dhoni, he is also not losing hope of turning the tables around this time, saying they are sure the opportunities will come in IPL 2025. "It's hard, really. It's not when you're playing well below par to get enthusiastic about staying in the competition, but that's what we must do, and yes, there will be an opportunity. Nothing will be wasted during this tournament. We look back at other tournaments that haven't gone our way, and some of the work we have done at the back end of tournaments have set us up for wins in the following year,” Fleming said during the post-match presser. Meanwhile, CSK’s next game is against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at home next Friday (Apr 25). (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: CSK captain MS Dhoni is already thinking of getting a right combination for next year

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has written to the apex body &ndash; the BCCI, seeking a ban on star broadcasters Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull from commentating during the remainder of IPL 2025 matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, per the latest report. In an explosive yet strong letter to the BCCI, the CAB expressed reservations over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-harsha-bhogle-simon-doull-unhappy-with-kkr-pitch-curator-for-disrespecting-ajinkya-rahane-8895205" rel="dofollow">Bhogle and Doull&rsquo;s remarks criticising the Eden pitch curator</a> Sujan Mukherjee.
It all began following Kolkata Knight Riders&rsquo; (KKR) tournament opener against RCB at the Eden Gardens, which the visitors won by seven wickets. After the KKR pitch curator denied preparing a spin-friendly track and instead offered the one where seamers had more purchase, team captain Ajinkya Rahane showed displeasure over the same during the post-match presentation.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-central-contract-list-abhishek-sharma-harshit-rana-among-newcomers-added-shreyas-iyer-ishan-kishan-back-rohit-kohli-bumrah-check-full-list-8985078" rel="dofollow">BCCI central contract list: Abhishek Sharma among newcomers added; Iyer, Kishan are back - Check full list</a>
Speaking on the same lines, TV broadcasters Bhogle and Doull slammed the KKR pitch curator (after KKR&rsquo;s away win against Rajasthan Royals) for not listening to the home team&rsquo;s demand, arguing that KKR should move their home matches outside the Eden Gardens and host them elsewhere.&nbsp;
&ldquo;...I saw something what the KKR curator has said. If I'm in the KKR camp, I'm extremely unhappy of what he said because I'm not asking for a 120 surface. I'm just saying, give me a surface where my bowlers can win matches. To say, 'Sorry, we don't prepare pitches like that...' No. We are not asking you to make a 120 pitch, we are not asking you to make a 240 pitch.&nbsp;
&ldquo;But I think home advantage in a tournament like IPL is absolutely legitimate. That will enhance the tournament because winning away becomes crucial then," Bhogle said in a Cricbuzz show.
Meanwhile, Simon Doull went one step ahead, saying, &ldquo;If he's not taking heed of what the home team wants... I mean, they are paying the stadium fees, they are paying for what's going on in the IPL, but if he's still not paying heed to what the home team wants, then just move the franchise away to somewhere else.
"His job is not to pass an opinion on the game. That's not what he's paid for,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
<h2>'He's just following BCCI's rule book' - CAB on KKR pitch curator</h2>
Although there was plenty of two and fro surrounding this earlier, where Sujan first denied rejecting Rahane&rsquo;s plea to prepare spin-friendly tracks in home matches to later admitting doing away with that, claiming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-kkr-pitch-curator-does-u-turn-in-ajinkya-rahane-episode-says-those-who-are-accusing-me-sujan-mukherjee-8898729" rel="dofollow">he just followed BCCI&rsquo;s guidelines</a>, the CAB has thrown its weight behind him for the same reason.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-coach-chandrakant-pandit-backs-ajinkya-rahane-over-eden-gardens-pitch-controversy-bats-for-favourable-home-conditions-kkr-vs-mi-8907831" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: KKR coach backs Rahane over &lsquo;Eden Gardens pitch controversy&rsquo;, bats for &lsquo;favourable home conditions&rsquo;</a>
CAB argues that Sujan followed the BCCI&rsquo;s rule book, which states that no IPL franchise shall have a say in deciding a wicket&rsquo;s nature anywhere, let&nbsp;alone at home.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the report further suggests that BCCI hasn't responded to the letter yet, adding neither Bhogle nor Doull will be present at the venue for the side&rsquo;s home game against Gujarat Titans on Monday (Apr 21).&nbsp;
Sujan, however, commented on this matter earlier, saying, "I do not have to bother about what Harsha Bhogle or Simon Doull said. What matters to me is what the spectators and my association say about the wicket. I am accountable to the BCCI for producing a good sporting wicket."
(With inputs from agencies)

In an explosive yet strong letter to the BCCI, the CAB expressed reservations over Bhogle and Doull’s remarks criticising the Eden pitch curator. Sports, Cricket

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has written to the apex body – the BCCI, seeking a ban on star broadcasters Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull from commentating during the remainder of IPL 2025 matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, per the latest report. In an explosive yet strong letter to the BCCI, the CAB expressed reservations over Bhogle and Doull’s remarks criticising the Eden pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee. It all began following Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) tournament opener against RCB at the Eden Gardens, which the visitors won by seven wickets. After the KKR pitch curator denied preparing a spin-friendly track and instead offered the one where seamers had more purchase, team captain Ajinkya Rahane showed displeasure over the same during the post-match presentation. Also read | BCCI central contract list: Abhishek Sharma among newcomers added; Iyer, Kishan are back - Check full list Speaking on the same lines, TV broadcasters Bhogle and Doull slammed the KKR pitch curator (after KKR’s away win against Rajasthan Royals) for not listening to the home team’s demand, arguing that KKR should move their home matches outside the Eden Gardens and host them elsewhere. “...I saw something what the KKR curator has said. If I'm in the KKR camp, I'm extremely unhappy of what he said because I'm not asking for a 120 surface. I'm just saying, give me a surface where my bowlers can win matches. To say, 'Sorry, we don't prepare pitches like that...' No. We are not asking you to make a 120 pitch, we are not asking you to make a 240 pitch. “But I think home advantage in a tournament like IPL is absolutely legitimate. That will enhance the tournament because winning away becomes crucial then," Bhogle said in a Cricbuzz show. Meanwhile, Simon Doull went one step ahead, saying, “If he's not taking heed of what the home team wants... I mean, they are paying the stadium fees, they are paying for what's going on in the IPL, but if he's still not paying heed to what the home team wants, then just move the franchise away to somewhere else. "His job is not to pass an opinion on the game. That's not what he's paid for,” he added. 'He's just following BCCI's rule book' - CAB on KKR pitch curator Although there was plenty of two and fro surrounding this earlier, where Sujan first denied rejecting Rahane’s plea to prepare spin-friendly tracks in home matches to later admitting doing away with that, claiming he just followed BCCI’s guidelines, the CAB has thrown its weight behind him for the same reason. Also read | IPL 2025: KKR coach backs Rahane over ‘Eden Gardens pitch controversy’, bats for ‘favourable home conditions’ CAB argues that Sujan followed the BCCI’s rule book, which states that no IPL franchise shall have a say in deciding a wicket’s nature anywhere, let alone at home. Meanwhile, the report further suggests that BCCI hasn't responded to the letter yet, adding neither Bhogle nor Doull will be present at the venue for the side’s home game against Gujarat Titans on Monday (Apr 21). Sujan, however, commented on this matter earlier, saying, "I do not have to bother about what Harsha Bhogle or Simon Doull said. What matters to me is what the spectators and my association say about the wicket. I am accountable to the BCCI for producing a good sporting wicket." (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Ban star commentators, demands Bengal cricket body over KKR pitch row - Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ms-dhoni" rel="dofollow">MS Dhoni</a>&rsquo;s return to his fortress at the Wankhede Stadium turned horror for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> thrashed the visitors by nine wickets, winning their fourth game in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>. Mumbai climbed to the sixth spot on the points table with four wins in eight contested matches, while CSK remained at the bottom with six losses thus far this edition. Indian pair Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav completed respective fifties during the chase.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pybj35-65cigo9f-fd6rwip2">
A perfect way to wrap a dominant victory and seal back-to-back home wins 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> sign off tonight by winning round 2⃣ against their arch rival 🥳 Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/v2k7Y5tg2Q">https://t.co/v2k7Y5tg2Q</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/u2BDXfHpXJ">pic.twitter.com/u2BDXfHpXJ</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1914010125943333212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Mumbai Indians won the toss and, as it should be, decided to bowl first, considering the dew factor at the venue. Down on confidence, CSK lost their man in form, Rachin Ravindra, in the fourth over, with two rookie batters, including a debutant, Ayush Mhatre, and his partner Shaik Rasheed, beginning the rebuilding work.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-virat-kohli-krunal-pandya-power-rcb-to-beat-punjab-kings-in-return-leg-enter-top-three-8982952" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Kohli, Krunal power RCB to beat Punjab Kings in return leg, enter top three</a>
Mhatre impressed one and all on his IPL debut, smashing Ashwani Kumar for four and two sixes before opening his arms against Deepak Chahar and Trent Boult.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pycftj-y2sbhjzy-2j2qezwz">
𝙁𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙗𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙣𝙩 🤩 How about that for a start 🔥 Ayush Mhatre's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> career is up and away in some fashion 💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> 52/1 after 6 overs. Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi">https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/UVvmdWotvY">pic.twitter.com/UVvmdWotvY</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913963836400415028?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
After adding 41 for the second wicket, he got out to Chahar on 32 off just 15 balls. MI&rsquo;s ace spinner Mitchell Santner removed Rasheed in the next over, putting CSK&rsquo;s back against the wall.&nbsp;
The left-handed pair of Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja picked up the run rate, with Dube taking on the bowlers. Just after completing his fifty, premier MI seamer Jasprit Bumrah removed him before accounting for CSK captain and batting great MS Dhoni, caught at the deep on four.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pyc688-3wximff7-yez9ff6p">
Not easy to hit him away 🙅&zwj; Jasprit Bumrah is his name 😎 And it's the big wicket of MS Dhoni ☝ Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi">https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> <a href="https://t.co/xYzkipqEHE">pic.twitter.com/xYzkipqEHE</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913982908810801195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, Jadeja completed his fifty in the last over, helping CSK put up 176 for five.
<h2>No stopping MI</h2>
Since winning their last game against Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians look and play like a different team. And what&rsquo;s best? Rohit Sharma is back to form!
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pybw1k-wk359a7u-zfeuez73">
Wankhede stadium is buzzing 🥳 Rohit Sharma is depositing them into the second tiers 🔥 Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi">https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> <a href="https://t.co/BAFtGG3DB1">pic.twitter.com/BAFtGG3DB1</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913991160814502041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
The veteran opener looked like his old self, taking all bowlers to the cleaners. He smashed sixes for fun against CSK bowlers, with Suryakumar Yadav tormenting them with utter disdain, mainly their premier spinner, Noor Ahmed.
The pair added 114 runs for the second wicket, with SKY hitting an unbeaten 68 off 30 balls, including five sixes and six fours. On the other hand, Rohit remained not out on 76 off 45 balls, bashing six massive sixes and four boundaries.
MI completed the chase in the 16th over.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians rose to the sixth spot on the points table with four wins and as many losses in eight contested matches thus far in IPL 2025. Sports, Cricket

MS Dhoni’s return to his fortress at the Wankhede Stadium turned horror for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as Mumbai Indians thrashed the visitors by nine wickets, winning their fourth game in IPL 2025. Mumbai climbed to the sixth spot on the points table with four wins in eight contested matches, while CSK remained at the bottom with six losses thus far this edition. Indian pair Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav completed respective fifties during the chase. A perfect way to wrap a dominant victory and seal back-to-back home wins 💙@mipaltan sign off tonight by winning round 2⃣ against their arch rival 🥳 Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/v2k7Y5tg2Q#TATAIPL | #MIvCSK pic.twitter.com/u2BDXfHpXJ — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025 Mumbai Indians won the toss and, as it should be, decided to bowl first, considering the dew factor at the venue. Down on confidence, CSK lost their man in form, Rachin Ravindra, in the fourth over, with two rookie batters, including a debutant, Ayush Mhatre, and his partner Shaik Rasheed, beginning the rebuilding work. Also read | IPL 2025: Kohli, Krunal power RCB to beat Punjab Kings in return leg, enter top three Mhatre impressed one and all on his IPL debut, smashing Ashwani Kumar for four and two sixes before opening his arms against Deepak Chahar and Trent Boult. 𝙁𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙗𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙣𝙩 🤩 How about that for a start 🔥 Ayush Mhatre's #TATAIPL career is up and away in some fashion 💛#CSK 52/1 after 6 overs. Updates ▶ https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi#MIvCSK | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/UVvmdWotvY — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025 After adding 41 for the second wicket, he got out to Chahar on 32 off just 15 balls. MI’s ace spinner Mitchell Santner removed Rasheed in the next over, putting CSK’s back against the wall. The left-handed pair of Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja picked up the run rate, with Dube taking on the bowlers. Just after completing his fifty, premier MI seamer Jasprit Bumrah removed him before accounting for CSK captain and batting great MS Dhoni, caught at the deep on four. Not easy to hit him away 🙅‍ Jasprit Bumrah is his name 😎 And it's the big wicket of MS Dhoni ☝ Updates ▶ https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi#TATAIPL | #MIvCSK | @Jaspritbumrah93 | @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/xYzkipqEHE — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025 Meanwhile, Jadeja completed his fifty in the last over, helping CSK put up 176 for five. No stopping MI Since winning their last game against Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians look and play like a different team. And what’s best? Rohit Sharma is back to form! Wankhede stadium is buzzing 🥳 Rohit Sharma is depositing them into the second tiers 🔥 Updates ▶ https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi#TATAIPL | #MIvCSK | @ImRo45 | @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/BAFtGG3DB1 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025 The veteran opener looked like his old self, taking all bowlers to the cleaners. He smashed sixes for fun against CSK bowlers, with Suryakumar Yadav tormenting them with utter disdain, mainly their premier spinner, Noor Ahmed. The pair added 114 runs for the second wicket, with SKY hitting an unbeaten 68 off 30 balls, including five sixes and six fours. On the other hand, Rohit remained not out on 76 off 45 balls, bashing six massive sixes and four boundaries. MI completed the chase in the 16th over.

No merry for MS Dhoni in Mumbai as hosts thrash CSK at Wankhede by nine wickets

MI vs CSK Dream11 Prediction:&nbsp;Mumbai Indians will look to gain momentum in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) when they take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday evening. Having beaten Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last encounter, MI will be boosting with confidence but cannot discount their biggest rivals, seeking to go two-nil up on them this season. So here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the MI vs CSK contest.&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">MI vs CSK Match Preview</h2>
Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings head into the match sitting seventh and tenth, respectively, on the points table. Both teams have won their previous contests and will be eyeing momentum as they enter the second half of the IPL 2025. However, a defeat for either team will see them drop crucial points in the race for the IPL 2025 Playoff.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">MI vs CSK Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11</h2>
Wicketkeeper: Ryan Rickelton 
Batters: Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(C), Rachin Ravindra 
All-Rounders: Mitchell Santner, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube (VC) 
Bowlers:&nbsp; Jasprit Bumrah, Noor Ahmed, Khaleel Ahmed&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">MI vs CSK Head-to-Head Records</h2>
Sunday's meeting between MI and CSK will be the 39th overall in the IPL, with the hosts leading it with 20 wins. CSK, on the other hand, have won 18, with no matches ending in a no-result.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices<o:p></o:p></h2>
1. Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;
Suryakumar Yadav has a stunning record in this format and has done well for both India and Mumbai Indians. He is the leadiing run scorer for MI with 265 runs this season.
2. Shivam Dube
Shivam Dube scored 43 runs in the previous match and will be a good pick against this opposition.
3. Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya has been in great form for Mumbai Indians. Pandya contibutes in both batting and bowling departments and will be a good pick.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-updated-points-table-indian-premier-league-rankings-standings-net-run-rate-8888780" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">MI vs CSK Fantasy Cricket Tips<o:p></o:p></h2>
Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya will be value additions to the side, so we suggest you to pick them in the Dream11 for the IPL 2025 contest.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings Team Analysis<o:p></o:p></h2>
MI: MI are seventh on the points table with three wins and four losses in seven matches thus far. They beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by four wickets in the previous tie and will be looking to take the momentum forward for the remainder of IPL 2025.
CSK:&nbsp;CSK are placed last on the table with two wins and five losses in seven matches. They finally broke a streak of five losses in a row with a dominating win over LSG, chasing down 168 with three balls to spare in their last game.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Wankhede Stadium Pitch Report<o:p></o:p></h2>
The pitch at Wankhede Stadium is known to assist batters, where a quick outfield and short boundaries create the perfect setting for high-scoring encounters.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for MI vs CSK Dream11 Fantasy Cricket<o:p></o:p></h2>
Wicketkeeper: MS Dhoni 
Batters: Naman Dhir, Rohit Sharma, Shaik Rasheed 
All-Rounders: Will Jacks, Ravindra Jadeja 
Bowlers: Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, Matheesha Pathirana 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Match Prediction: Who Will Win MI vs CSK?</h2>
Although the Chennai Super Kings look motivated to better their IPL 2025 winning tally, playing at home could benefit MI. So, we predict Mumbai Indians to beat Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025.
Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

Cricket India News | Sports  will look to gain momentum in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) as they take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium.

MI vs CSK Dream11 Prediction: Mumbai Indians will look to gain momentum in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) when they take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday evening. Having beaten Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last encounter, MI will be boosting with confidence but cannot discount their biggest rivals, seeking to go two-nil up on them this season. So here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the MI vs CSK contest. MI vs CSK Match Preview Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings head into the match sitting seventh and tenth, respectively, on the points table. Both teams have won their previous contests and will be eyeing momentum as they enter the second half of the IPL 2025. However, a defeat for either team will see them drop crucial points in the race for the IPL 2025 Playoff. MI vs CSK Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11 Wicketkeeper: Ryan Rickelton Batters: Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(C), Rachin Ravindra All-Rounders: Mitchell Santner, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube (VC) Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Noor Ahmed, Khaleel Ahmed MI vs CSK Head-to-Head Records Sunday's meeting between MI and CSK will be the 39th overall in the IPL, with the hosts leading it with 20 wins. CSK, on the other hand, have won 18, with no matches ending in a no-result. 3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices 1. Suryakumar Yadav Suryakumar Yadav has a stunning record in this format and has done well for both India and Mumbai Indians. He is the leadiing run scorer for MI with 265 runs this season. 2. Shivam Dube Shivam Dube scored 43 runs in the previous match and will be a good pick against this opposition. 3. Hardik Pandya Hardik Pandya has been in great form for Mumbai Indians. Pandya contibutes in both batting and bowling departments and will be a good pick. ALSO READ | 'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details MI vs CSK Fantasy Cricket Tips Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya will be value additions to the side, so we suggest you to pick them in the Dream11 for the IPL 2025 contest. Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings Team Analysis MI: MI are seventh on the points table with three wins and four losses in seven matches thus far. They beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by four wickets in the previous tie and will be looking to take the momentum forward for the remainder of IPL 2025. CSK: CSK are placed last on the table with two wins and five losses in seven matches. They finally broke a streak of five losses in a row with a dominating win over LSG, chasing down 168 with three balls to spare in their last game. Wankhede Stadium Pitch Report The pitch at Wankhede Stadium is known to assist batters, where a quick outfield and short boundaries create the perfect setting for high-scoring encounters. Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for MI vs CSK Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Wicketkeeper: MS Dhoni Batters: Naman Dhir, Rohit Sharma, Shaik Rasheed All-Rounders: Will Jacks, Ravindra Jadeja Bowlers: Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, Matheesha Pathirana Match Prediction: Who Will Win MI vs CSK? Although the Chennai Super Kings look motivated to better their IPL 2025 winning tally, playing at home could benefit MI. So, we predict Mumbai Indians to beat Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025. Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

MI vs CSK Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings

PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/punjab-kings">Punjab Kings</a> will take on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a> on Sunday (Apr 20) at Mullanpur stadium in New Chandigarh. Interestingly, both teams had faced each other in their last encounter on Apr 18 in Chinnaswamy stadium. So, here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the PBKS vs RCB contest.&nbsp;
<h2>PBKS vs RCB Match Preview</h2>
So far in the IPL 2025, PBKS have won five matches out of the seven played. They are coming off a thrilling five-wicket win against RCB. PBKS top order collapsed but it was Nehal Wadhera's heroics that won the game for visitors.&nbsp; On the other hand, RCB are coming into the contest after a defeat against PBKS where they managed to score just 95 in rain-curtailed 28 overs match. It will be interesting to watch who wins the match and remains the top team.&nbsp;
<h2>PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11</h2>
Wicketkeeper: Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis 
Batters: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Priyansh Arya
All-Rounders: Krunal Pandya 
Bowlers: Macro Jansen, Arshdeep Singh, Josh Hazlewood
<h2>PBKS vs RCB Head-to-Head Record</h2>
Saturday's meeting between PBKS and RCB will be the 35th between the franchises, with the former leading the way with 18 wins. RCB, on the other hand, have won 16 matches, with no contest ending in a no-result.
<h2>3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices<o:p></o:p></h2>
1. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer has scored 357 runs with a strike rate of 194 in seven innings. He is in good form and scoring very important runs for Punjab, making him an ideal choice for the Captain
2. Virat Kohli
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> is the leading run-scorer in the history of IPL. He has also performed well and his presence at the crease makes it tough for opponents.
3. Josh Hazlewood
Austrlalian pacer Josh Hazlewood has picked 12 wickets and is currently placed third in the purple cap race. In his last encounter, he had troubled Punjab with a three-wicket haul.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-ipl-2025-heres-how-many-records-14-year-old-vaibhav-suryavanshi-broke-on-his-ipl-debut-for-rr-against-lsg-8981402" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025: Here's how many records 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi broke on his IPL debut for RR against LSG</a>
<h2>PBKS vs RCB Fantasy Cricket Tips<o:p></o:p></h2>
Josh Hazlewood and Priyansh Arya are the two safest options to have on the team, as they both are in good form. They have been contributing consistently for their respect
<h3>Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Team Analysis<o:p></o:p></h3>
PBKS: The Punjab Kings are coming after securing a five-wicket win against RCB. They would look to continue their winning momentum and claim the top position in points table.
RCB: Royal Challengers Bengaluru will look for a revenge and enter into the top 4 of the points table.
<h2>Mullanpur Stadium Pitch Report<o:p></o:p></h2>
Light rain is expected as per the forecast. The Mullanpur stadium pitch favors batters and offers good assistance to pace bowlers. Teams winning the toss will look to bowl first.
<h2>Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Fantasy Cricket<o:p></o:p></h2>
Wicketkeeper: Dhruv Jurel 
Batters: Shreyas Iyer, Tim David, Rajat Patidar 
All-Rounders: Marcus Stoinis 
Bowlers: Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Yash Dayal 
<h2>Match Prediction: Who Will Win PBKS vs RCB?</h2>
Inspite of PBKS defeating RCB in their last encounter RCB would look to turn the tables. The match will be nail-biter, however we expect RCB to beat PBKS.
Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions, and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

India News Sports Cricket  In less than 48 hours PBKS and RCB would be facing each other with the former winning the last encounter in Bengaluru

PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction: Punjab Kings will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday (Apr 20) at Mullanpur stadium in New Chandigarh. Interestingly, both teams had faced each other in their last encounter on Apr 18 in Chinnaswamy stadium. So, here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the PBKS vs RCB contest. PBKS vs RCB Match Preview So far in the IPL 2025, PBKS have won five matches out of the seven played. They are coming off a thrilling five-wicket win against RCB. PBKS top order collapsed but it was Nehal Wadhera's heroics that won the game for visitors. On the other hand, RCB are coming into the contest after a defeat against PBKS where they managed to score just 95 in rain-curtailed 28 overs match. It will be interesting to watch who wins the match and remains the top team. PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11 Wicketkeeper: Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis Batters: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Priyansh Arya All-Rounders: Krunal Pandya Bowlers: Macro Jansen, Arshdeep Singh, Josh Hazlewood PBKS vs RCB Head-to-Head Record Saturday's meeting between PBKS and RCB will be the 35th between the franchises, with the former leading the way with 18 wins. RCB, on the other hand, have won 16 matches, with no contest ending in a no-result. 3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices 1. Shreyas Iyer Shreyas Iyer has scored 357 runs with a strike rate of 194 in seven innings. He is in good form and scoring very important runs for Punjab, making him an ideal choice for the Captain 2. Virat Kohli Virat Kohli is the leading run-scorer in the history of IPL. He has also performed well and his presence at the crease makes it tough for opponents. 3. Josh Hazlewood Austrlalian pacer Josh Hazlewood has picked 12 wickets and is currently placed third in the purple cap race. In his last encounter, he had troubled Punjab with a three-wicket haul. ALSO READ | IPL 2025: Here's how many records 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi broke on his IPL debut for RR against LSG PBKS vs RCB Fantasy Cricket Tips Josh Hazlewood and Priyansh Arya are the two safest options to have on the team, as they both are in good form. They have been contributing consistently for their respect Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Team Analysis PBKS: The Punjab Kings are coming after securing a five-wicket win against RCB. They would look to continue their winning momentum and claim the top position in points table. RCB: Royal Challengers Bengaluru will look for a revenge and enter into the top 4 of the points table. Mullanpur Stadium Pitch Report Light rain is expected as per the forecast. The Mullanpur stadium pitch favors batters and offers good assistance to pace bowlers. Teams winning the toss will look to bowl first. Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Wicketkeeper: Dhruv Jurel Batters: Shreyas Iyer, Tim David, Rajat Patidar All-Rounders: Marcus Stoinis Bowlers: Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Yash Dayal Match Prediction: Who Will Win PBKS vs RCB? Inspite of PBKS defeating RCB in their last encounter RCB would look to turn the tables. The match will be nail-biter, however we expect RCB to beat PBKS. Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions, and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Vaibhav Suryavanshi made an explosive 34 off 20 balls as he became the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rr-vs-lsg-meet-vaibhav-suryavanshi-14-the-youngest-ipl-debutant-8980215" rel="dofollow">youngest player in IPL history aged just 14</a> on Saturday but finished on the losing side as Lucknow Super Giants beat Rajasthan Royals by two runs.<o:p></o:p>
Rajasthan turned to the youngster as their impact substitute and he opened the batting alongside India star Yashasvi Jaiswal after Lucknow scored 180-5.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gt-vs-dc-gujarat-titans-climb-to-top-of-points-table-with-their-highest-successful-run-chase-in-ipl-8980393" rel="dofollow">GT vs DC: Gujarat Titans climb to top of points table with their highest successful run chase in IPL</a>
Suryavanshi stole the limelight after belting his first ball for six in a much-awaited debut after he was bought for $130,500 in the November auction when he was still just 13.<o:p></o:p>
Jaiswal and Suryavanshi, who hit three sixes and two fours in an electrifying knock, put on 85 for the first wicket before the youngster was stumped by Rishabh Pant off the bowling of South Africa international Aiden Markram. <o:p></o:p>
Stand-in captain Riyan Parag came in and made 39 but Rajasthan lost their way as he departed shortly after Jaiswal fell for 74.<o:p></o:p>
Avesh Khan dismissed both in the 18th over to turn the match on its head and Rajasthan finished on 178-5 after the Lucknow fast bowler defended nine off the last over to pull off a stunning victory for his team in Jaipur.<o:p></o:p>
Shimron Hetmyer scored 12 before he fell to Avesh on the third ball of the 20th over and despite David Miller dropping a catch in the deep, Avesh held his nerve with his yorkers and disciplined bowling to return figures of 3-37.<o:p></o:p>
Avesh's heroics took some of the attention away from Suryavanshi, who was handed his chance after Rajasthan skipper Sanju Samson was ruled out due to injury.<o:p></o:p>
He was added as an impact player for the match and then replaced medium-pace bowler Sandeep Sharma in the chase.<o:p></o:p>
The baby-faced Suryavanshi, called "Boss Baby" -- a popular animated film -- by the TV commentators, impressed in batting with Jaiswal, who recorded his third straight half-century, but their efforts ultimately came in a losing cause.<o:p></o:p>
Earlier, Markram's 66 and a 50 by impact player Ayush Badoni helped Lucknow set a target of 181 after they elected to bat first.<o:p></o:p>
Lucknow lost three early wickets including opener Mitchell Marsh, for four runs, Nicholas Pooran (11) and skipper Pant (three).<o:p></o:p>
Markram and Badoni rebuilt the innings in their partnership of 76 before Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga broke through with the wicket of Markram.<o:p></o:p>
Badoni departed after his 34-ball knock, but Abdul Samad hit an unbeaten 30 off 10 balls including four sixes to boost the total, and that crucial late burst proved decisive.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Avesh's heroics took some of the attention away from Suryavanshi, who was handed his chance after Rajasthan skipper was ruled out due to injury. Sports, Cricket

Vaibhav Suryavanshi made an explosive 34 off 20 balls as he became the youngest player in IPL history aged just 14 on Saturday but finished on the losing side as Lucknow Super Giants beat Rajasthan Royals by two runs. Rajasthan turned to the youngster as their impact substitute and he opened the batting alongside India star Yashasvi Jaiswal after Lucknow scored 180-5. Also read | GT vs DC: Gujarat Titans climb to top of points table with their highest successful run chase in IPL Suryavanshi stole the limelight after belting his first ball for six in a much-awaited debut after he was bought for $130,500 in the November auction when he was still just 13. Jaiswal and Suryavanshi, who hit three sixes and two fours in an electrifying knock, put on 85 for the first wicket before the youngster was stumped by Rishabh Pant off the bowling of South Africa international Aiden Markram. Stand-in captain Riyan Parag came in and made 39 but Rajasthan lost their way as he departed shortly after Jaiswal fell for 74. Avesh Khan dismissed both in the 18th over to turn the match on its head and Rajasthan finished on 178-5 after the Lucknow fast bowler defended nine off the last over to pull off a stunning victory for his team in Jaipur. Shimron Hetmyer scored 12 before he fell to Avesh on the third ball of the 20th over and despite David Miller dropping a catch in the deep, Avesh held his nerve with his yorkers and disciplined bowling to return figures of 3-37. Avesh's heroics took some of the attention away from Suryavanshi, who was handed his chance after Rajasthan skipper Sanju Samson was ruled out due to injury. He was added as an impact player for the match and then replaced medium-pace bowler Sandeep Sharma in the chase. The baby-faced Suryavanshi, called "Boss Baby" -- a popular animated film -- by the TV commentators, impressed in batting with Jaiswal, who recorded his third straight half-century, but their efforts ultimately came in a losing cause. Earlier, Markram's 66 and a 50 by impact player Ayush Badoni helped Lucknow set a target of 181 after they elected to bat first. Lucknow lost three early wickets including opener Mitchell Marsh, for four runs, Nicholas Pooran (11) and skipper Pant (three). Markram and Badoni rebuilt the innings in their partnership of 76 before Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga broke through with the wicket of Markram. Badoni departed after his 34-ball knock, but Abdul Samad hit an unbeaten 30 off 10 balls including four sixes to boost the total, and that crucial late burst proved decisive. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

LSG’s Avesh Khan bowls perfect last over to deny Rajasthan Royals a win in IPL 2025

England's Jos Buttler struck an unbeaten 97 to power Gujarat Titans (GT) to the top of the IPL table with a seven-wicket win over Delhi Capitals (DC) in Ahmedabad's intense heat on Saturday. Chasing 204 for victory, Gujarat rode on Buttler's 54-ball knock laced with 11 fours and four sixes to achieve their target with four balls to spare at the world's biggest cricket stadium.<o:p></o:p>
Wicketkeeper-batsman Buttler and impact substitute Sherfane Rutherford, a left-hand West Indies batter who hit 43, put on a key stand of 119 to steer Gujarat to their fifth win in seven matches and to the top of the 10-team table.<o:p></o:p>
Delhi slipped to second.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rr-vs-lsg-meet-vaibhav-suryavanshi-14-the-youngest-ipl-debutant-8980215" rel="dofollow">RR vs LSG: Meet Vaibhav Suryavanshi, 14, the youngest IPL debutant</a> 
Rutherford fell in the 19th over. Delhi's left-arm quick Mitchell Starc needed to defend 10 off the final six balls but the left-handed Rahul Tewatia finished off with a six and four.<o:p></o:p>
Buttler, who hit his third half-century of the season, was left three short of a hundred that would have put him level with Virat Kohli's record eight IPL tons.<o:p></o:p>
Gujarat, who won the IPL in their debut season in 2022, elected to field first on a hot afternoon as the temperature soared above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).<o:p></o:p>
Delhi reached 203-8, but the total could have been more had it not been for four wickets by Gujarat pace bowler Prasidh Krishna, who now leads this season's bowling with 14 scalps.<o:p></o:p>
Buttler was the hero as his batting charge stood out after his work behind the stumps for 20 overs in the heat, as he gloved two catches.<o:p></o:p>
Gujarat skipper Shubman Gill fell run out for seven in the second over after he attempted a tough single, and a direct throw from Karun Nair rattled the stumps.<o:p></o:p>
The left-right batting pair of Sai Sudharsan and Buttler put the innings back on track as they balanced caution and aggression in their stand of 60.<o:p></o:p>
Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav took down Sudharsan for 36, but Buttler found another partner in Rutherford, who took on the bowling and hit three sixes.<o:p></o:p>
Earlier, Delhi skipper Axar Patel top-scored with 39.<o:p></o:p>
KL Rahul made 28 before Krishna trapped him lbw with a yorker and then cut short Nair's knock in the ninth over.<o:p></o:p>
Veteran pace bowler Ishant Sharma bowled two overs but went off after he struggled to cope with the scorching heat.<o:p></o:p>
Ishant came back to bowl another over but again went back to the dugout and was subbed out with figures of 1-19.<o:p></o:p>
Tristan Stubbs was out for 31 before Krishna sent back Axar and Vipraj Nigam with successive balls, but the hat-trick was avoided.<o:p></o:p>
Ashutosh Sharma hit 37 to boost the total.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chasing 204 for victory, Gujarat rode on Buttler's 54-ball knock laced with 11 fours and four sixes to achieve their target with four balls to spare. Sports, Cricket

England's Jos Buttler struck an unbeaten 97 to power Gujarat Titans (GT) to the top of the IPL table with a seven-wicket win over Delhi Capitals (DC) in Ahmedabad's intense heat on Saturday. Chasing 204 for victory, Gujarat rode on Buttler's 54-ball knock laced with 11 fours and four sixes to achieve their target with four balls to spare at the world's biggest cricket stadium. Wicketkeeper-batsman Buttler and impact substitute Sherfane Rutherford, a left-hand West Indies batter who hit 43, put on a key stand of 119 to steer Gujarat to their fifth win in seven matches and to the top of the 10-team table. Delhi slipped to second. Also read | RR vs LSG: Meet Vaibhav Suryavanshi, 14, the youngest IPL debutant Rutherford fell in the 19th over. Delhi's left-arm quick Mitchell Starc needed to defend 10 off the final six balls but the left-handed Rahul Tewatia finished off with a six and four. Buttler, who hit his third half-century of the season, was left three short of a hundred that would have put him level with Virat Kohli's record eight IPL tons. Gujarat, who won the IPL in their debut season in 2022, elected to field first on a hot afternoon as the temperature soared above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Delhi reached 203-8, but the total could have been more had it not been for four wickets by Gujarat pace bowler Prasidh Krishna, who now leads this season's bowling with 14 scalps. Buttler was the hero as his batting charge stood out after his work behind the stumps for 20 overs in the heat, as he gloved two catches. Gujarat skipper Shubman Gill fell run out for seven in the second over after he attempted a tough single, and a direct throw from Karun Nair rattled the stumps. The left-right batting pair of Sai Sudharsan and Buttler put the innings back on track as they balanced caution and aggression in their stand of 60. Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav took down Sudharsan for 36, but Buttler found another partner in Rutherford, who took on the bowling and hit three sixes. Earlier, Delhi skipper Axar Patel top-scored with 39. KL Rahul made 28 before Krishna trapped him lbw with a yorker and then cut short Nair's knock in the ninth over. Veteran pace bowler Ishant Sharma bowled two overs but went off after he struggled to cope with the scorching heat. Ishant came back to bowl another over but again went back to the dugout and was subbed out with figures of 1-19. Tristan Stubbs was out for 31 before Krishna sent back Axar and Vipraj Nigam with successive balls, but the hat-trick was avoided. Ashutosh Sharma hit 37 to boost the total. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

GT vs DC: Gujarat Titans climb to top of points table with their highest successful run chase in IPL

Off the countless firsts in cricket that will blow everyone&rsquo;s mind &ndash; 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi is set to become the youngest-ever cricketer in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Representing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royal" rel="dofollow">Rajasthan Royals</a> in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, Vaibhav is on the Impact Sub list and likely to bat against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants" rel="dofollow">Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)</a> on Saturday; aged 14 years and 23 days, Vaibhav will walk in the XI as an injury replacement for regular captain Sanju Samson.
Samson suffered an injury during the side&rsquo;s previous game against the Delhi Capitals, retiring midway through his innings. Although Rajasthan&rsquo;s head coach Rahul Dravid detailed Samson&rsquo;s injury status ahead of the LSG game, saying he&rsquo;s walking on thin ice regarding his fitness, visuals of Riyan Parag walking down for the toss confirmed Samson&rsquo;s absence.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abhishek-nayar-finds-solace-in-ipl-2025-return-after-bcci-cuts-short-contract-kkr-kolkata-knight-riders-8979855" rel="dofollow">Abhishek Nayar finds solace in IPL 2025 return after BCCI cuts short contract</a>
Deciding to bowl first after winning the toss, Parag revealed that Vaibhav would play Saturday&rsquo;s encounter, coming in as Samson&rsquo;s replacement; with that, he created history by becoming the youngest ever to play for an IPL team.
Meanwhile, Prayas Ray Barman, who made his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at 16 years and 157 days in 2019 against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), was the previous youngest cricketer in IPL.
&ldquo;We were looking to bowl, it is a little bit warm under lights, should be better than the last time. Vaibhav, the youngster, comes in. It's been kinda tricky; we've been doing small bits right, but we haven't been able to put a collective performance together; we've been having honest chats as a team. We love playing here, we know the conditions well, hope we can put that to good use,&rdquo; Parag said at the toss.
<h2>Vaibhav&rsquo;s early rise to success</h2>
Vaibhav is living every kid&rsquo;s dream in the country, playing his first IPL game as a 14-year-old.
Last year, he created history by becoming the youngest to bag an IPL deal at 13 years. At the IPL 2025 mega auction, Rajasthan Royals purchased the rookie left-hander for a whopping INR 1.1 crore.
Meanwhile, Suryavanshi first rose to the limelight after hitting his maiden triple hundred &ndash; an unbeaten 332, in the Randhir Verma Tournament, an Under-19 competition in Bihar. Thus far, he&rsquo;s played five first-class matches, scoring 100 runs at 10.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Born in 2011, Vaibhav is the first player to play in the IPL after its inception in 2008. He will open the innings for the Rajasthan Royals. Sports, Cricket

Off the countless firsts in cricket that will blow everyone’s mind – 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi is set to become the youngest-ever cricketer in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Representing Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025, Vaibhav is on the Impact Sub list and likely to bat against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Saturday; aged 14 years and 23 days, Vaibhav will walk in the XI as an injury replacement for regular captain Sanju Samson. Samson suffered an injury during the side’s previous game against the Delhi Capitals, retiring midway through his innings. Although Rajasthan’s head coach Rahul Dravid detailed Samson’s injury status ahead of the LSG game, saying he’s walking on thin ice regarding his fitness, visuals of Riyan Parag walking down for the toss confirmed Samson’s absence. Also read | Abhishek Nayar finds solace in IPL 2025 return after BCCI cuts short contract Deciding to bowl first after winning the toss, Parag revealed that Vaibhav would play Saturday’s encounter, coming in as Samson’s replacement; with that, he created history by becoming the youngest ever to play for an IPL team. Meanwhile, Prayas Ray Barman, who made his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at 16 years and 157 days in 2019 against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), was the previous youngest cricketer in IPL. “We were looking to bowl, it is a little bit warm under lights, should be better than the last time. Vaibhav, the youngster, comes in. It's been kinda tricky; we've been doing small bits right, but we haven't been able to put a collective performance together; we've been having honest chats as a team. We love playing here, we know the conditions well, hope we can put that to good use,” Parag said at the toss. Vaibhav’s early rise to success Vaibhav is living every kid’s dream in the country, playing his first IPL game as a 14-year-old. Last year, he created history by becoming the youngest to bag an IPL deal at 13 years. At the IPL 2025 mega auction, Rajasthan Royals purchased the rookie left-hander for a whopping INR 1.1 crore. Meanwhile, Suryavanshi first rose to the limelight after hitting his maiden triple hundred – an unbeaten 332, in the Randhir Verma Tournament, an Under-19 competition in Bihar. Thus far, he’s played five first-class matches, scoring 100 runs at 10. (With inputs from agencies)

RR vs LSG: Meet Vaibhav Suryavanshi, 14, the youngest IPL debutant

RR vs LSG Dream11 Prediction: Rajasthan Royals will take on Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday (Apr 19) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Both teams are coming off a defeat in their previous matches, looking to return to winning ways. So, here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the RR vs LSG contest.&nbsp;
<h2>RR vs LSG Match Preview</h2>
So far in the IPL 2025, LSG have won four matches out of the seven played. They are coming off a five-wicket defeat against CSK at home. Captain Rishabh Pant has not performed so far this season. On the other hand, LSG are coming into the contest after a thrilling super-over win against Rajasthan. It will be interesting to watch who wins the match and remains the top team.&nbsp;
<h2>RR vs LSG Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11</h2>
Wicketkeeper: Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel 
Batters: Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Yashashvi Jaiswal
All-Rounders: Nitish Rana 
Bowlers: Sandeep Sharma, Avesh Khan, Jofra Archer
<h2>RR vs LSG Head-to-Head Record</h2>
Saturday's meeting between RR and LSG will be the sixth between the franchises, with the latter leading the way with three wins. RR, on the other hand, have won 2 matches, with no contest ending in a no-result.
<h2>3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices<o:p></o:p></h2>
1. Nicholas Pooran
Nicholas Pooran has scored 357 runs with an explosive strike rate of 208 in seven innings. He is the leading run getter on the Orange Cap list, making him an ideal choice for the Captain
2. Yashashvi Jaiswal&nbsp;
Yashashvi has scored 233 runs in seven innings with a strike rate of 133. In his last game against Delhi, he had scored an attacking 36-ball fifty.
3. Mitchell Marsh&nbsp;
Australian opener is in good form with 295 runs in six innings with a strike rate of 171.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dewald-brevis-joins-csk-as-injury-replacement-for-remainder-of-ipl-2025-gurjapneet-singh-8976194" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Dewald Brevis joins CSK as injury replacement for remainder of IPL 2025</a>
<h2>RR vs LSG Fantasy Cricket Tips<o:p></o:p></h2>
Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh are the two safest options to have on the team, as they both are in good form. They have been contributing consistently for LSG
<h3>Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Supergiants Team Analysis<o:p></o:p></h3>
RR: The Rajasthan Royals are coming off a super-over defeat in the last encounter against Delhi. They would be looking to come back on track and pick up momentum for the remainder of IPL 2025.
LSG: Lucknow Supergiants are coming into this contest facing a defeat at home against MS Dhoni's led CSK. They will look for a win and crash into the top 4 of the points table.
<h2>Sawai Mansingh Stadium Pitch Report<o:p></o:p></h2>
The surface here will be a balanced one with good help for both pacers and spinners. Both teams will prefer chasing at this venue.
<h2>Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for RR vs LSG Dream11 Fantasy Cricket<o:p></o:p></h2>
Wicketkeeper: Rishabh Pant 
Batters: Aiden Markram, David Miller, Shimron Hetmeyer 
All-Rounders: Shardul Thakur 
Bowlers: Digvesh Rathi, Ravi Bishnoi, Wanindu Hasaranga 
<h2>Match Prediction: Who Will Win RR vs LSG?</h2>
Rajasthan Royals have an upper hand in this contest, seeing their head-to-head encounters. However, seeing the current form, we expect LSG to beat RR.
Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions, and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

RR and LSG would look to return to winning ways and gain the momentum for the remainder of IPL 2025. Both teams are coming after a defeat. Sports, Cricket

RR vs LSG Dream11 Prediction: Rajasthan Royals will take on Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday (Apr 19) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Both teams are coming off a defeat in their previous matches, looking to return to winning ways. So, here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the RR vs LSG contest. RR vs LSG Match Preview So far in the IPL 2025, LSG have won four matches out of the seven played. They are coming off a five-wicket defeat against CSK at home. Captain Rishabh Pant has not performed so far this season. On the other hand, LSG are coming into the contest after a thrilling super-over win against Rajasthan. It will be interesting to watch who wins the match and remains the top team. RR vs LSG Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11 Wicketkeeper: Sanju Samson, Dhruv Jurel Batters: Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Yashashvi Jaiswal All-Rounders: Nitish Rana Bowlers: Sandeep Sharma, Avesh Khan, Jofra Archer RR vs LSG Head-to-Head Record Saturday's meeting between RR and LSG will be the sixth between the franchises, with the latter leading the way with three wins. RR, on the other hand, have won 2 matches, with no contest ending in a no-result. 3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices 1. Nicholas Pooran Nicholas Pooran has scored 357 runs with an explosive strike rate of 208 in seven innings. He is the leading run getter on the Orange Cap list, making him an ideal choice for the Captain 2. Yashashvi Jaiswal Yashashvi has scored 233 runs in seven innings with a strike rate of 133. In his last game against Delhi, he had scored an attacking 36-ball fifty. 3. Mitchell Marsh Australian opener is in good form with 295 runs in six innings with a strike rate of 171. ALSO READ | Dewald Brevis joins CSK as injury replacement for remainder of IPL 2025 RR vs LSG Fantasy Cricket Tips Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh are the two safest options to have on the team, as they both are in good form. They have been contributing consistently for LSG Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Supergiants Team Analysis RR: The Rajasthan Royals are coming off a super-over defeat in the last encounter against Delhi. They would be looking to come back on track and pick up momentum for the remainder of IPL 2025. LSG: Lucknow Supergiants are coming into this contest facing a defeat at home against MS Dhoni's led CSK. They will look for a win and crash into the top 4 of the points table. Sawai Mansingh Stadium Pitch Report The surface here will be a balanced one with good help for both pacers and spinners. Both teams will prefer chasing at this venue. Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for RR vs LSG Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Wicketkeeper: Rishabh Pant Batters: Aiden Markram, David Miller, Shimron Hetmeyer All-Rounders: Shardul Thakur Bowlers: Digvesh Rathi, Ravi Bishnoi, Wanindu Hasaranga Match Prediction: Who Will Win RR vs LSG? Rajasthan Royals have an upper hand in this contest, seeing their head-to-head encounters. However, seeing the current form, we expect LSG to beat RR. Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions, and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

RR vs LSG Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Super Giants

Former Team India assistant batting coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/abhishek-nayar" rel="dofollow">Abhishek Nayar</a> has found solace in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> return, just days after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cricket-abhishek-nayar-t-dilip-sacked-by-bcci-from-gautam-gambhirs-cpaching-staff-after-poor-display-in-australia-report-8970874" rel="dofollow">Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) cut short his national contract</a> midway through the season. The former Mumbai all-rounder has rejoined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as part of their backroom staff, attending the team&rsquo;s training session from Saturday (Apr 19) onwards, IPL franchise KKR announced in a statement.
"Abhishek Nayar has rejoined our support staff. He is likely to be at training at Eden today," KKR&rsquo;s statement read, per Cricbuzz.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9o7nzt2-e3kkhyq1-t5vfkf0j">
Welcome back home, <a href="https://twitter.com/abhisheknayar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abhisheknayar1</a> 💜 <a href="https://t.co/IwJQTnAWxa">pic.twitter.com/IwJQTnAWxa</a>
&mdash; KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1913559286132637967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
Nayar is no next-door backroom staff member at the franchise, as he has been their man behind the scenes, working on grooming players in their academy over the years. Despite such credentials besides his name, the BCCI decided against renewing his central contract, due in June this year, following Team India&rsquo;s batting failure during their past two Test series (against New Zealand at home and Australia Down Under), which they lost.&nbsp;
While India&rsquo;s batting failure on the rank turners at home brought shame, as they surrendered the Test series (0-3) for the first time in history, failing to deliver against the famous Aussie pace attack despite drawing first blood in the series, it mounted pressure on Abhishek.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-gujarat-titans-gt-coach-ashish-nehra-handpicks-india-fielder-bigger-than-jonty-rhodes-ravindra-jadeja-8979643" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: GT coach Ashish Nehra handpicks THIS India fielder bigger than Jonty Rhodes</a>
Following the horrendous tour Down Under, where India conceded the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in a decade and the chance to qualify for their third straight WTC Final (in June), the BCCI conducted a review meeting, where Nayar&rsquo;s role came under the scanner. While multiple voices within the management raised questions about his responsibilities, feedback from the players helped the BCCI conclude it.&nbsp;
However, it&rsquo;s the first instance in Indian Cricket history that the board terminated a backroom staff member&rsquo;s contract handpicked by the head coach (Gautam Gambhir here).&nbsp;
<h2>KKR to the Indian Team to back to KKR</h2>
Meanwhile, after Gambhir mentored KKR to its third IPL title last year, the BCCI appointed him as Rahul Dravid&rsquo;s replacement as Team India&rsquo;s all-format head coach. Nayar, who was part of KKR&rsquo;s backroom staff last season, joined Gambhir in the Indian camp last year, only for him to vacate the spot ahead of a heavy away summer.&nbsp;
Besides Nayar, the BCCI also sacked the fielding coach, T Dilip, and the conditioning coach, Soham Desai, with the Indian Cricket Board deciding to implement the new changes ahead of the England Test series, starting shortly after the IPL 2025.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

It’s the first time in Indian Cricket history that the BCCI terminated a backroom staff member’s contract, handpicked by the head coach (Gambhir here). Sports, Cricket

Former Team India assistant batting coach Abhishek Nayar has found solace in IPL 2025 return, just days after the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) cut short his national contract midway through the season. The former Mumbai all-rounder has rejoined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as part of their backroom staff, attending the team’s training session from Saturday (Apr 19) onwards, IPL franchise KKR announced in a statement. "Abhishek Nayar has rejoined our support staff. He is likely to be at training at Eden today," KKR’s statement read, per Cricbuzz. Welcome back home, @abhisheknayar1 💜 pic.twitter.com/IwJQTnAWxa — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) April 19, 2025 Nayar is no next-door backroom staff member at the franchise, as he has been their man behind the scenes, working on grooming players in their academy over the years. Despite such credentials besides his name, the BCCI decided against renewing his central contract, due in June this year, following Team India’s batting failure during their past two Test series (against New Zealand at home and Australia Down Under), which they lost. While India’s batting failure on the rank turners at home brought shame, as they surrendered the Test series (0-3) for the first time in history, failing to deliver against the famous Aussie pace attack despite drawing first blood in the series, it mounted pressure on Abhishek. Also read | IPL 2025: GT coach Ashish Nehra handpicks THIS India fielder bigger than Jonty Rhodes Following the horrendous tour Down Under, where India conceded the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in a decade and the chance to qualify for their third straight WTC Final (in June), the BCCI conducted a review meeting, where Nayar’s role came under the scanner. While multiple voices within the management raised questions about his responsibilities, feedback from the players helped the BCCI conclude it. However, it’s the first instance in Indian Cricket history that the board terminated a backroom staff member’s contract handpicked by the head coach (Gautam Gambhir here). KKR to the Indian Team to back to KKR Meanwhile, after Gambhir mentored KKR to its third IPL title last year, the BCCI appointed him as Rahul Dravid’s replacement as Team India’s all-format head coach. Nayar, who was part of KKR’s backroom staff last season, joined Gambhir in the Indian camp last year, only for him to vacate the spot ahead of a heavy away summer. Besides Nayar, the BCCI also sacked the fielding coach, T Dilip, and the conditioning coach, Soham Desai, with the Indian Cricket Board deciding to implement the new changes ahead of the England Test series, starting shortly after the IPL 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Abhishek Nayar finds solace in IPL 2025 return after BCCI cuts short contract

Cricket has seen several great fielders over time, but none as athletic, stylish, or intimidating as former South Africa great <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jonty-rhodes" rel="dofollow">Jonty Rhodes</a>; it&rsquo;s almost like fielding is a synonym for his name. For the longest time since his emergence on the international scene, Jonty has remained head and shoulders ahead of everyone, even to date. However, ex-India seamer and IPL franchise Gujarat Titans (GT) head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ashish-nehra" rel="dofollow">Ashish Nehra</a> differs here, handpicking an Indian gun fielder mightier than Rhodes.
Ahead of his side&rsquo;s home game against the Delhi Capitals (DC) on Saturday in IPL 2025, the broadcaster (Star Sports) asked Nehra to pick his best fielder in cricket history, to which he replied, &lsquo;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravindra-jadeja" rel="dofollow">Ravindra Jadeja</a>&rsquo; straightaway.
Meanwhile, Nehra played alongside some of the best in-ring and outfielders, those with great throwing arms and a few with all these traits. From sharing field space with Jonty himself, alongside his ex-teammates Herschelle Gibbs and AB de Villiers, and not to forget the dynamite Australian pair of Ricky Ponting and Andrew Symonds, Nehra perhaps has witnessed greatness from close quarters.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-la28-olympics-games-ecb-cricket-scotland-in-talks-over-forming-great-britain-team-8979421" rel="dofollow">LA28 Olympics: ECB, Cricket Scotland in talks over forming Team Great Britain</a>
But despite all of that, he chose Jadeja ahead of them all.
&ldquo;I have seen a lot of big fielders; some are good in the outfield, some inside, like Jonty Rhodes, he is the best inside the circle. If you speak about all-round fielding, AB de Villiers&rsquo; name comes in, but even Andrew Symonds and Jadeja.&nbsp;
&ldquo;But I would put Jadeja ahead of them. It's not because of his age. When he came in 2008-09 and now, he is still the same. It is his fitness, I don't know what he eats. If he is eating something different, he should tell us,&rdquo; Nehra explained.
<h2>Gill drops hints on Rabada&rsquo;s return</h2>
GT captain Shubman Gill provided a massive update on his team&rsquo;s ace overseas seamer, Kagiso Rabada, who left the camp midway through the tournament to head home for personal reasons.&nbsp;
After electing to bowl first against the table-toppers Delhi Capitals (DC) on a hot Ahmedabad afternoon on Saturday, Gill revealed Rabada would relink with the GT squad in around ten days, bolstering their already-strong-looking pace attack.&nbsp;
As things stand, GT is third on the points table with four wins from six matches.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

For the longest time since his emergence on the international scene, Jonty Rhodes has remained head and shoulders ahead of everyone, even to date. Sports, Cricket

Cricket has seen several great fielders over time, but none as athletic, stylish, or intimidating as former South Africa great Jonty Rhodes; it’s almost like fielding is a synonym for his name. For the longest time since his emergence on the international scene, Jonty has remained head and shoulders ahead of everyone, even to date. However, ex-India seamer and IPL franchise Gujarat Titans (GT) head coach Ashish Nehra differs here, handpicking an Indian gun fielder mightier than Rhodes. Ahead of his side’s home game against the Delhi Capitals (DC) on Saturday in IPL 2025, the broadcaster (Star Sports) asked Nehra to pick his best fielder in cricket history, to which he replied, ‘Ravindra Jadeja’ straightaway. Meanwhile, Nehra played alongside some of the best in-ring and outfielders, those with great throwing arms and a few with all these traits. From sharing field space with Jonty himself, alongside his ex-teammates Herschelle Gibbs and AB de Villiers, and not to forget the dynamite Australian pair of Ricky Ponting and Andrew Symonds, Nehra perhaps has witnessed greatness from close quarters. Also read | LA28 Olympics: ECB, Cricket Scotland in talks over forming Team Great Britain But despite all of that, he chose Jadeja ahead of them all. “I have seen a lot of big fielders; some are good in the outfield, some inside, like Jonty Rhodes, he is the best inside the circle. If you speak about all-round fielding, AB de Villiers’ name comes in, but even Andrew Symonds and Jadeja. “But I would put Jadeja ahead of them. It's not because of his age. When he came in 2008-09 and now, he is still the same. It is his fitness, I don't know what he eats. If he is eating something different, he should tell us,” Nehra explained. Gill drops hints on Rabada’s return GT captain Shubman Gill provided a massive update on his team’s ace overseas seamer, Kagiso Rabada, who left the camp midway through the tournament to head home for personal reasons. After electing to bowl first against the table-toppers Delhi Capitals (DC) on a hot Ahmedabad afternoon on Saturday, Gill revealed Rabada would relink with the GT squad in around ten days, bolstering their already-strong-looking pace attack. As things stand, GT is third on the points table with four wins from six matches. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: GT coach Ashish Nehra handpicks THIS India fielder bigger than Jonty Rhodes

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=rcb" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Royal Challengers Bengaluru </a>lost their third match in a row at home in the ongoing IPL 2025 as they were beaten by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/punjab-kings">Punjab Kings</a> by 5 wickets in a rain-curtailed, reduced to 14-over match at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=chinnaswamy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Chinnaswamy Stadium.</a>
Post match, RCB pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/josh-hazlewood" rel="dofollow">Josh Hazlewood</a> openly criticised his team. He said that the players are not learning from their past mistakes.&nbsp;"Yeah, I think it's not a typical Chinnaswamy wicket. Obviously, the bounce has always been there, but it's in past years, it's probably been more consistent,&rdquo; Hazlewood said.
He also said that the team&rsquo;s performance in the powerplay was not good, and that made things worse. &nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-responds-to-mca-wankhedes-stand-gesture-i-will-forever-be-grateful-for-this-honour-8977320" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rohit Sharma responds to MCA Wankhede&rsquo;s Stand gesture: &lsquo;I will forever be grateful for this honour&rsquo;</a>
"Yeah, it's obviously three (defeats) in a row now at home. It's just we've probably been a bit slow on the learnings from the first two games and didn't put that into practice as well as we could have, probably in those first probably six to eight overs, obviously, with the score the way it was," he added.
<h2>'Nehal is a good player'</h2>
Hazlewood still believes the team can bounce back from this situation."But we'll dive into this game and, you know, probably more so when we get back to Bangalore and really go through in detail and with a fine tooth comb and come up with a few ideas of where we can learn and improve. I think the bowling definitely improved from the last two outings. So sort of we're slowly getting there, but probably not quick enough," he said.
On the other hand, Punjab spinner Harpreet Brar praised Nehal Wadhera, who scored 33 not out and finished the match calmly.&nbsp;"Nehal is a very good player. He has been playing in the IPL for the last 2-3 years. He does well domestically as well. Recently, when we won the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he played very well in the knockouts. As a senior, I feel very proud," said Brar.
Brar took two wickets in the final over and said he was ready for the challenge.&nbsp;"In small matches, you have to be on your toes. You can get an over anytime. I was ready. It was my first game of the season. I didn't know that I would bowl in the last over," he signed off.

Sports: Royal Challengers Bengaluru lost their third match in a row at home. Post match, RCB pacer Josh Hazlewood criticised team for not learning from past  mistakes

Royal Challengers Bengaluru lost their third match in a row at home in the ongoing IPL 2025 as they were beaten by Punjab Kings by 5 wickets in a rain-curtailed, reduced to 14-over match at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Post match, RCB pacer Josh Hazlewood openly criticised his team. He said that the players are not learning from their past mistakes. "Yeah, I think it's not a typical Chinnaswamy wicket. Obviously, the bounce has always been there, but it's in past years, it's probably been more consistent,” Hazlewood said. He also said that the team’s performance in the powerplay was not good, and that made things worse. Also Read: Rohit Sharma responds to MCA Wankhede’s Stand gesture: ‘I will forever be grateful for this honour’ "Yeah, it's obviously three (defeats) in a row now at home. It's just we've probably been a bit slow on the learnings from the first two games and didn't put that into practice as well as we could have, probably in those first probably six to eight overs, obviously, with the score the way it was," he added. 'Nehal is a good player' Hazlewood still believes the team can bounce back from this situation."But we'll dive into this game and, you know, probably more so when we get back to Bangalore and really go through in detail and with a fine tooth comb and come up with a few ideas of where we can learn and improve. I think the bowling definitely improved from the last two outings. So sort of we're slowly getting there, but probably not quick enough," he said. On the other hand, Punjab spinner Harpreet Brar praised Nehal Wadhera, who scored 33 not out and finished the match calmly. "Nehal is a very good player. He has been playing in the IPL for the last 2-3 years. He does well domestically as well. Recently, when we won the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he played very well in the knockouts. As a senior, I feel very proud," said Brar. Brar took two wickets in the final over and said he was ready for the challenge. "In small matches, you have to be on your toes. You can get an over anytime. I was ready. It was my first game of the season. I didn't know that I would bowl in the last over," he signed off.

IPL 2025 | As RCB lose again at home, Josh Hazlewood says team is 'slow on learning'

The last time rain interrupted a clash between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a> (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat Kohli batted with five stitches in his hand and brought the house down with a century for the ages. That was 2016, a night of commitment, brilliance, and a storm that couldn&rsquo;t stop a legend.
Nine years later, the rain returned. So did the rivalry. But this time, Punjab Kings wrote their tale under the clouds.
<h2>PBKS turn the tables&nbsp;</h2>
On a rain-hit Friday (April 18) night in Bengaluru, Punjab Kings flipped the script with a clinical win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a match reduced to 14 overs a side. RCB fans hoped for a touch of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=virat+kohli" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kohli</a> magic, but Punjab delivered the knockout punch.&nbsp;
RCB had a bad start, crashing to 43/7 in the ninth over.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/arshdeep-singh" rel="dofollow">Arshdeep Singh</a> struck early, removing Virat Kohli for just 1, followed with wickets kept falling at regular intervals. It was a combined team bowling effort with Arshdeep, Macro Jansen, Chahal and Harpreet Brar claiming two wickets each
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-7-highest-individual-scorers-in-ipl-2025-8977029" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">7 Highest Individual Scorers in IPL 2025</a>
Amid the collapse, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=tim+david" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Tim David</a> stood tall with a fighting fifty, pushing RCB to 95, a total that looked far below from the par score.&nbsp;Punjab&rsquo;s chase began shakily. Both openers fell inside the powerplay, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/josh-hazlewood" rel="dofollow">Josh Hazlewood</a>&rsquo;s double-strike suddenly brought RCB back into the contest. The pressure was building, but Nehal Wadhera stood tall for Punjab.
The left-hander counter-attacked with a blistering 33* off 19 balls. Two towering sixes off Suyash Sharma turned the momentum Punjab's way, before Marcus Stoinis sealed the deal with a boundary in the 12th over.
By this win, Punjab are now in the second position of the points table. Whereas RCB, losing the third match of this season, all at home, have managed to be in the top 4.
Thus, in 2016, when Chinnaswamy echoed Kohli's heroics, it now stood silent with Punjab's storm.

Sports: In a rain-curtailed match, PBKS flipped the script with a clinical win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a match reduced to 14 overs a side

The last time rain interrupted a clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat Kohli batted with five stitches in his hand and brought the house down with a century for the ages. That was 2016, a night of commitment, brilliance, and a storm that couldn’t stop a legend. Nine years later, the rain returned. So did the rivalry. But this time, Punjab Kings wrote their tale under the clouds. PBKS turn the tables On a rain-hit Friday (April 18) night in Bengaluru, Punjab Kings flipped the script with a clinical win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a match reduced to 14 overs a side. RCB fans hoped for a touch of Kohli magic, but Punjab delivered the knockout punch. RCB had a bad start, crashing to 43/7 in the ninth over. Arshdeep Singh struck early, removing Virat Kohli for just 1, followed with wickets kept falling at regular intervals. It was a combined team bowling effort with Arshdeep, Macro Jansen, Chahal and Harpreet Brar claiming two wickets each Also Read: 7 Highest Individual Scorers in IPL 2025 Amid the collapse, Tim David stood tall with a fighting fifty, pushing RCB to 95, a total that looked far below from the par score. Punjab’s chase began shakily. Both openers fell inside the powerplay, and Josh Hazlewood’s double-strike suddenly brought RCB back into the contest. The pressure was building, but Nehal Wadhera stood tall for Punjab. The left-hander counter-attacked with a blistering 33* off 19 balls. Two towering sixes off Suyash Sharma turned the momentum Punjab's way, before Marcus Stoinis sealed the deal with a boundary in the 12th over. By this win, Punjab are now in the second position of the points table. Whereas RCB, losing the third match of this season, all at home, have managed to be in the top 4. Thus, in 2016, when Chinnaswamy echoed Kohli's heroics, it now stood silent with Punjab's storm.

IPL 2025 | Same rain, new reign: Punjab Kings rewrite 2016 script

Tim David remained unbeaten on 50, but other <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rcb" rel="dofollow">RCB</a> batters failed to hit gold against Punjab Kings (PBKS) as the hosts managed a paltry 95 for nine in 14 overs in the rain-hit first innings on Friday in IPL 2025. Only two RCB batters could enter the double-digit mark, with the remaining eight getting out on single scores. Meanwhile, only Xavier Bartlett returned with one wicket, as the remaining four PBKS bowlers picked up two wickets each.
Punjab won the toss and elected to bowl first in a rain-hit game, a decision they should be proud of until the end of the first innings. RCB lost Phil Salt inside the first over, with his partner and batting great <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> departing a couple of overs later on just one.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9n3kpux-71wb2dzs-u2ovkql6">
2️⃣ sharp catches 🫡 2️⃣ early strikes ✌ Arshdeep Singh and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKS</a> with a solid start ⚡ Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ">https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvPBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvPBKS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabKingsIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/jCt2NiuYEH">pic.twitter.com/jCt2NiuYEH</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913271942024671738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
Captain Rajat Patidar tried taking the counterattacking route, scoring 23 off 18 balls, but failed to put his team in a commanding position. With the wickets tumbling at the other end, the pressure mounted on Patidar and eventually had the better of him, resulting in his wicket, with RCB reeling at 42 for seven at one stage.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sanju-samson-doubtful-for-rr-home-ipl-2025-game-against-lucknow-super-giants-rahul-dravid-8976908" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Sanju Samson doubtful for RR's home game against Lucknow Super Giants: Dravid</a>
<h2>David&rsquo;s show afterwards</h2>
With the RCB looking like falling shy of their previous lowest team total, Tim David walked in and saved their day.&nbsp;
The hard-hitting Aussie all-rounder began finding gaps at will, eventually middling everything. With fewer overs remaining, he took the strike on most occasions and hit every run possible.
He kept smashing boundaries unless the time came to widen his strides and go big in the final over.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-responds-to-mca-wankhedes-stand-gesture-i-will-forever-be-grateful-for-this-honour-8977320" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma responds to MCA Wankhede&rsquo;s Stand gesture: &lsquo;I will forever be grateful for this honour&rsquo;</a>
Facing the left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar in the last over, David hit him for three massive sixes, only to realise he had the extra ball to hit runs (due to a free hit off the last delivery), which he did, running two, completing his maiden IPL fifty.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9n3kxi4-xjgwteju-eaf4zivs">
Maiden <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> fifty for Tim David 👊 Relive his three consecutive sixes 🚀 Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ">https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvPBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvPBKS</a> <a href="https://t.co/iGtby4FPTy">pic.twitter.com/iGtby4FPTy</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913286425539441053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
His inning, however, helped RCB put up a fighting total (95/9) in 14 overs.&nbsp;

David hit five fours and three sixes during his 50* against PBKS in IPL 2025, including three consecutive sixes off Harpreet Brar in the final over. Sports, Cricket

Tim David remained unbeaten on 50, but other RCB batters failed to hit gold against Punjab Kings (PBKS) as the hosts managed a paltry 95 for nine in 14 overs in the rain-hit first innings on Friday in IPL 2025. Only two RCB batters could enter the double-digit mark, with the remaining eight getting out on single scores. Meanwhile, only Xavier Bartlett returned with one wicket, as the remaining four PBKS bowlers picked up two wickets each. Punjab won the toss and elected to bowl first in a rain-hit game, a decision they should be proud of until the end of the first innings. RCB lost Phil Salt inside the first over, with his partner and batting great Virat Kohli departing a couple of overs later on just one. 2️⃣ sharp catches 🫡 2️⃣ early strikes ✌ Arshdeep Singh and #PBKS with a solid start ⚡ Updates ▶ https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ #TATAIPL | #RCBvPBKS | @PunjabKingsIPL pic.twitter.com/jCt2NiuYEH — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 18, 2025 Captain Rajat Patidar tried taking the counterattacking route, scoring 23 off 18 balls, but failed to put his team in a commanding position. With the wickets tumbling at the other end, the pressure mounted on Patidar and eventually had the better of him, resulting in his wicket, with RCB reeling at 42 for seven at one stage. Also read | IPL 2025: Sanju Samson doubtful for RR's home game against Lucknow Super Giants: Dravid David’s show afterwards With the RCB looking like falling shy of their previous lowest team total, Tim David walked in and saved their day. The hard-hitting Aussie all-rounder began finding gaps at will, eventually middling everything. With fewer overs remaining, he took the strike on most occasions and hit every run possible. He kept smashing boundaries unless the time came to widen his strides and go big in the final over. Also read | Rohit Sharma responds to MCA Wankhede’s Stand gesture: ‘I will forever be grateful for this honour’ Facing the left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar in the last over, David hit him for three massive sixes, only to realise he had the extra ball to hit runs (due to a free hit off the last delivery), which he did, running two, completing his maiden IPL fifty. Maiden #TATAIPL fifty for Tim David 👊 Relive his three consecutive sixes 🚀 Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ #RCBvPBKS pic.twitter.com/iGtby4FPTy — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 18, 2025 His inning, however, helped RCB put up a fighting total (95/9) in 14 overs.

IPL 2025: Tim David goes big against PBKS but RCB manage mere 95/9 in 14 overs

The seven highest individual scorers of IPL 2025 ft Abhishek Sharma, Priyansh Arya, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, Quinton De Kock and Karun Nair. Sports | Cricket | IPL

7 Highest Individual Scorers in IPL 2025

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royal" rel="dofollow">Rajasthan Royals (RR)</a> captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson" rel="dofollow">Sanju Samson</a> remains a doubtful starter for the side&rsquo;s next IPL 2025 home game against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants" rel="dofollow">Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)</a> on Saturday (Apr 19), head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed a day before the tie in Jaipur. Dravid added that the team is awaiting scan results on an injury to his side he suffered in the previous away clash against Delhi Capitals, which RR lost in the Super Over.
"Sanju experienced a bit of pain in the abdominal area. So, we have gone for scans. He has done some scans today, so we are waiting for the results of those scans. And then once we get a bit more clarity around the scans and the severity of [the injury], we'll take a decision going forward, and we'll see what happens,&rdquo; RR head coach Rahul Dravid said on Friday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dewald-brevis-joins-csk-as-injury-replacement-for-remainder-of-ipl-2025-gurjapneet-singh-8976194" rel="dofollow">Dewald Brevis joins CSK as injury replacement for remainder of IPL 2025</a>
While chasing against DC, Sanju retired hurt midway through his innings on 31 off 19 balls. The RR opener appeared uncomfortable with a suspected side issue he suffered after attempting to cut DC spinner Vipraj Nigam, after which the RR physio checked on him. Though he faced the next ball, Samson retired soon after, leaving RR a batter short in the chase.
"It feels alright," Samson informed the broadcasters after the match. "I was just not ready to come back and bat here. We'll observe it tomorrow and see how it is."
Meanwhile, RR began IPL 2025 nursing a thumb injury he suffered against England during the bilateral series, playing the side&rsquo;s first three matches purely as a batter. In his absence, RR&rsquo;s India batter Riyan Parag captained the team, and should Samson remain unavailable for selection due to his latest injury, Parag would lead the team.
Sanju played as a batter, coming in as an Impact Sub in all matches, while Dhruv Jurel kept wickets in his absence.
<h2>RR under Parag</h2>
Under Parag&rsquo;s captaincy, Rajasthan lost their tournament opener to SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and the next game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) but returned to winning ways with a close victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their second home venue, Guwahati.
They then beat the Punjab Kings but lost the next three matches; currently, they sit at the eighth spot on the points table with two wins in seven contested matches.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sanju Samson appeared uncomfortable with a suspected side issue he suffered after attempting to cut DC spinner Vipraj Nigam in the previous game. Sports, Cricket

Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson remains a doubtful starter for the side’s next IPL 2025 home game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Saturday (Apr 19), head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed a day before the tie in Jaipur. Dravid added that the team is awaiting scan results on an injury to his side he suffered in the previous away clash against Delhi Capitals, which RR lost in the Super Over. "Sanju experienced a bit of pain in the abdominal area. So, we have gone for scans. He has done some scans today, so we are waiting for the results of those scans. And then once we get a bit more clarity around the scans and the severity of [the injury], we'll take a decision going forward, and we'll see what happens,” RR head coach Rahul Dravid said on Friday. Also read | Dewald Brevis joins CSK as injury replacement for remainder of IPL 2025 While chasing against DC, Sanju retired hurt midway through his innings on 31 off 19 balls. The RR opener appeared uncomfortable with a suspected side issue he suffered after attempting to cut DC spinner Vipraj Nigam, after which the RR physio checked on him. Though he faced the next ball, Samson retired soon after, leaving RR a batter short in the chase. "It feels alright," Samson informed the broadcasters after the match. "I was just not ready to come back and bat here. We'll observe it tomorrow and see how it is." Meanwhile, RR began IPL 2025 nursing a thumb injury he suffered against England during the bilateral series, playing the side’s first three matches purely as a batter. In his absence, RR’s India batter Riyan Parag captained the team, and should Samson remain unavailable for selection due to his latest injury, Parag would lead the team. Sanju played as a batter, coming in as an Impact Sub in all matches, while Dhruv Jurel kept wickets in his absence. RR under Parag Under Parag’s captaincy, Rajasthan lost their tournament opener to SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and the next game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) but returned to winning ways with a close victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their second home venue, Guwahati. They then beat the Punjab Kings but lost the next three matches; currently, they sit at the eighth spot on the points table with two wins in seven contested matches. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Sanju Samson doubtful for RR's home game against Lucknow Super Giants: Dravid

RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction:&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will search for the maiden win of the season at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium as they take on Punjab Kings in Match 34 of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Having faced back-to-back defeats at home, RCB will eye a vital two points in their race for the Playoffs while Punjab will eye back-to-back wins. So here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the RCB vs PBKS contest.&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">RCB vs PBKS Match Preview</h2>
So far in the IPL 2025, RCB have won four matches and all those wins have come away from home while the team has lost both their home matches. A win for RCB will put them in command for a place in the Playoffs while a defeat will see them in a fight in the mid-table. So it will be an interesting contest at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11</h2>
Wicketkeeper: Philip Salt, rabhsimran Singh 
Batters: Rajat Patidar, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer 
All-Rounders: Liam Livingstone, Marco Jansen 
Bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yuzvendra Chahal
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">RCB vs PBKS Head-to-Head Record</h2>
Saturday's meeting between RCB and PBKS will be the 34th between the franchises with the latter leading the way with 17 wins. RCB on the other hand have won 16 matches with no contest ending in no result.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices<o:p></o:p></h2>
1. Shreyas Iyer&nbsp;&nbsp;
Shreyas Iyer has scored 250 runs in five matches at an average of 83 and a strike rate of 208 so far in this edition. He will be a good captaincy pick.
2. Virat Kohli&nbsp;
Virat Kohli is the leading run-getter in this history of IPL with more than 8000 runs. He will be a good captaincy pick for this match.
3. Priyansh Arya
Having scored a hundred in 39 balls against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Priyansh Arya will be a good value to have in the team. He should be a good option considering his form for Punjab Kings.&nbsp;
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-updated-points-table-indian-premier-league-rankings-standings-net-run-rate-8888780" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">RCB vs PBKS Fantasy Cricket Tips<o:p></o:p></h2>
Priyansh Arya and Shashank Singh are the two safest options to have on the team as they both are in good form. They played match-winning innings against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last week.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings Team Analysis<o:p></o:p></h2>
RCB: Royal Challengers Bengaluru are third in the points table with four wins and two losses in six matches. They beat Rajasthan Royals in the previous match by 8 wickets. Both their losses so far this season have come at home and that is something that RCB would want to rectify going forward.
PBKS: Punjab Kings beat Kolkata Knight Riders by 16 runs in the previous match. They defended a target of 111 runs which is the lowest total defended in the history of IPL and will be high on confidence. They are placed fourth in the table with four wins and two losses in six matches. This should be a closely fought game. &nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">M.Chinnaswamy Stadium Pitch Report<o:p></o:p></h2>
The pitch at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium is renowned for its batting-friendly conditions, where a quick outfield and short boundaries create the perfect setting for high-scoring encounters.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Fantasy Cricket<o:p></o:p></h2>
Wicketkeeper: Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh 
Batters: Shreyas Iyer (C), Rajat Patidar (VC), Priyansh Arya, Virat Kohli 
All-Rounders: Marco Jansen 
Bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Match Prediction: Who Will Win RCB vs PBKS?</h2>
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have found it tough to win on home turf this season, but we expect them to come good and break that streak. In a tough we expect RCB to beat PBKS at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

Sports | India News | Cricket: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will search for the maiden win of the season at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium as they take on Punjab Kings.

RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will search for the maiden win of the season at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium as they take on Punjab Kings in Match 34 of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Having faced back-to-back defeats at home, RCB will eye a vital two points in their race for the Playoffs while Punjab will eye back-to-back wins. So here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the RCB vs PBKS contest. RCB vs PBKS Match Preview So far in the IPL 2025, RCB have won four matches and all those wins have come away from home while the team has lost both their home matches. A win for RCB will put them in command for a place in the Playoffs while a defeat will see them in a fight in the mid-table. So it will be an interesting contest at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium. RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11 Wicketkeeper: Philip Salt, rabhsimran Singh Batters: Rajat Patidar, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer All-Rounders: Liam Livingstone, Marco Jansen Bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yuzvendra Chahal RCB vs PBKS Head-to-Head Record Saturday's meeting between RCB and PBKS will be the 34th between the franchises with the latter leading the way with 17 wins. RCB on the other hand have won 16 matches with no contest ending in no result. 3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices 1. Shreyas Iyer Shreyas Iyer has scored 250 runs in five matches at an average of 83 and a strike rate of 208 so far in this edition. He will be a good captaincy pick. 2. Virat Kohli Virat Kohli is the leading run-getter in this history of IPL with more than 8000 runs. He will be a good captaincy pick for this match. 3. Priyansh Arya Having scored a hundred in 39 balls against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Priyansh Arya will be a good value to have in the team. He should be a good option considering his form for Punjab Kings. ALSO READ | 'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details RCB vs PBKS Fantasy Cricket Tips Priyansh Arya and Shashank Singh are the two safest options to have on the team as they both are in good form. They played match-winning innings against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last week. Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings Team Analysis RCB: Royal Challengers Bengaluru are third in the points table with four wins and two losses in six matches. They beat Rajasthan Royals in the previous match by 8 wickets. Both their losses so far this season have come at home and that is something that RCB would want to rectify going forward. PBKS: Punjab Kings beat Kolkata Knight Riders by 16 runs in the previous match. They defended a target of 111 runs which is the lowest total defended in the history of IPL and will be high on confidence. They are placed fourth in the table with four wins and two losses in six matches. This should be a closely fought game. M.Chinnaswamy Stadium Pitch Report The pitch at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium is renowned for its batting-friendly conditions, where a quick outfield and short boundaries create the perfect setting for high-scoring encounters. Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Wicketkeeper: Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh Batters: Shreyas Iyer (C), Rajat Patidar (VC), Priyansh Arya, Virat Kohli All-Rounders: Marco Jansen Bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma Match Prediction: Who Will Win RCB vs PBKS? Royal Challengers Bengaluru have found it tough to win on home turf this season, but we expect them to come good and break that streak. In a tough we expect RCB to beat PBKS at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings

IPL franchise <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings-csk" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> have roped in South African batter Dewald Brevis, also known as 'Baby AB' among cricket fans, as a replacement for injured uncapped seamer Gurjapneet Singh for the remainder of the season. Brevis, who represented the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians (MI)</a> before, joins CSK for $257,649 (INR 2.2 crore).
Brevis rose to the limelight riding on his 2022 Under-19 World Cup success, where he hit the most runs recorded by a batter in a single edition (506 runs from six matches). The right-handed batter made headlines for batting like his cricket idol and South Africa great AB de Villiers, later cracking his maiden IPL deal with MI, where Brevis played ten games across three seasons, scoring 230 runs and striking at above 133.&nbsp;
Although he hasn't played enough cricket for his national team, representing them just twice in T20Is (in 2023), Brevis has featured in 81 T20s, scoring 1781 runs, with a highest score of 162.&nbsp;
Outside of the IPL, Brevis has played across several franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, including the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Major League Cricket (MLC), and the SA20 in South Africa, where he helped MI Cape Town win their maiden title the past season, scoring 291 runs (the sixth highest) striking at 184.17.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-time-for-him-to-retire-says-ex-india-opener-virender-sehwag-about-rohit-sharma-8975625" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 | 'Time for him to retire...,' says ex-India opener Virender Sehwag about Rohit Sharma</a>
<h2>Brevis at the 2025 IPL auction</h2>
Brevis registered his name for the IPL 2025 mega auction late last year at a base price of INR 75 lakh, finding no bidders. He didn't let his head down, and instead, worked hard to regain form. He performed well in his third SA20 season and carried that forward to the domestic season for the Titans, finishing the second-highest run-getter in the One-Day and first-class tournaments.
Meanwhile, CSK bought lanky seamer Gurjapneet Singh for INR 2.2 crore at the auction, benching him thus far this season.
The franchise, however, sits at the bottom of the points table with just two wins from seven contested matches in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, with four points to their name.&nbsp;
CSK faces&nbsp;MI next coming Sunday (Apr 20) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
(With inputs from agencies)

Brevis rose to the limelight riding on his 2022 U19 World Cup success, hitting the most runs recorded by a batter in a single edition. Sports, Cricket

IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have roped in South African batter Dewald Brevis, also known as 'Baby AB' among cricket fans, as a replacement for injured uncapped seamer Gurjapneet Singh for the remainder of the season. Brevis, who represented the Mumbai Indians (MI) before, joins CSK for $257,649 (INR 2.2 crore). Brevis rose to the limelight riding on his 2022 Under-19 World Cup success, where he hit the most runs recorded by a batter in a single edition (506 runs from six matches). The right-handed batter made headlines for batting like his cricket idol and South Africa great AB de Villiers, later cracking his maiden IPL deal with MI, where Brevis played ten games across three seasons, scoring 230 runs and striking at above 133. Although he hasn't played enough cricket for his national team, representing them just twice in T20Is (in 2023), Brevis has featured in 81 T20s, scoring 1781 runs, with a highest score of 162. Outside of the IPL, Brevis has played across several franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide, including the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Major League Cricket (MLC), and the SA20 in South Africa, where he helped MI Cape Town win their maiden title the past season, scoring 291 runs (the sixth highest) striking at 184.17. Also read | IPL 2025 | 'Time for him to retire...,' says ex-India opener Virender Sehwag about Rohit Sharma Brevis at the 2025 IPL auction Brevis registered his name for the IPL 2025 mega auction late last year at a base price of INR 75 lakh, finding no bidders. He didn't let his head down, and instead, worked hard to regain form. He performed well in his third SA20 season and carried that forward to the domestic season for the Titans, finishing the second-highest run-getter in the One-Day and first-class tournaments. Meanwhile, CSK bought lanky seamer Gurjapneet Singh for INR 2.2 crore at the auction, benching him thus far this season. The franchise, however, sits at the bottom of the points table with just two wins from seven contested matches in IPL 2025, with four points to their name. CSK faces MI next coming Sunday (Apr 20) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. (With inputs from agencies)

Dewald Brevis joins CSK as injury replacement for remainder of IPL 2025

Former India opener Virender Sehwag thinks that Rohit Sharma's time to retire is near and the batter should play normal cricket instead of going hard in the powerplay. The comments come on the back of Rohit's performance in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 where he has scored 82 runs in six innings with a best of just 26.
&ldquo;If you look at Rohit&rsquo;s IPL numbers in the last 10 years, he scored more than 400 runs only once. So he is not the kind of player who thinks that I need to score 500 or 700 runs. If he thinks, he might," said Sehwag while talking on Cricbuzz during MI vs SRH game on Thursday (Apr 17).
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"When he became the Indian captain, he said that he wanted to be the player who wants to cash in on the powerplay and take the chances, so he wanted to make all the sacrifices alone, but he is not considering the fact that at the end of the day when he is not performing, it is your legacy that is getting hurt. It&rsquo;s already time for him to retire, and before retiring, you would want to give fans something to remember you by, and not moments that force them to think, why are they not dropping him,&rdquo; he added.
Mumbai won the game against SRH after chasing down 163-run target in 18.1 overs and four wickets in hand. With the win, MI are now at the seventh place with three wins and four losses in seven games.
SRH, on the other hand, have lost five games out of seven they have played this season and currently sit second last on the 10-team table with four points.
Both these teams need to win maximum of their remaining seven matches if they are to qualify for the playoffs where only top four teams are given a place.

Rohit Sharma, in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, has scored 82 runs in six innings with a best of just 26 and this has not helped Mumbai Indian's cause. Cricket Sports

Former India opener Virender Sehwag thinks that Rohit Sharma's time to retire is near and the batter should play normal cricket instead of going hard in the powerplay. The comments come on the back of Rohit's performance in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 where he has scored 82 runs in six innings with a best of just 26. “If you look at Rohit’s IPL numbers in the last 10 years, he scored more than 400 runs only once. So he is not the kind of player who thinks that I need to score 500 or 700 runs. If he thinks, he might," said Sehwag while talking on Cricbuzz during MI vs SRH game on Thursday (Apr 17). Also Read - Cricket Australia's new CEO Todd Greenberg says 'we need to find ways to overcome bad light stoppages' "When he became the Indian captain, he said that he wanted to be the player who wants to cash in on the powerplay and take the chances, so he wanted to make all the sacrifices alone, but he is not considering the fact that at the end of the day when he is not performing, it is your legacy that is getting hurt. It’s already time for him to retire, and before retiring, you would want to give fans something to remember you by, and not moments that force them to think, why are they not dropping him,” he added. Mumbai won the game against SRH after chasing down 163-run target in 18.1 overs and four wickets in hand. With the win, MI are now at the seventh place with three wins and four losses in seven games. SRH, on the other hand, have lost five games out of seven they have played this season and currently sit second last on the 10-team table with four points. Both these teams need to win maximum of their remaining seven matches if they are to qualify for the playoffs where only top four teams are given a place.

IPL 2025 | 'Time for him to retire...,' says ex-India opener Virender Sehwag about Rohit Sharma

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is almost at its halfway stage as 10 teams continue to fight for glory in cricket&rsquo;s biggest franchise league. Attention on big names, teams have been in good form and looking to make the most of their home conditions. However, the pitch has played a major factor in shaping a team&rsquo;s fortunes. So are pitches playing any role in a team&rsquo;s fortune at the IPL 2025 as we analyse the situation?
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Are pitches playing any role in IPL 2025?</h2>
At the time of writing 33 matches have been played in IPL 2025, where teams have mixed records. Teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) have struggled to make an impact on home turf, where the pitch has played an important role. The pitches are generally prepared by the pitch curator on the advice of the home captain and coach, influencing home conditions.
However, criticism has been drawn by the home captains for the nature of the wicket prepared, leading to the team&rsquo;s defeat. Most recently, questions were raised by Ajinkya Rahane on the condition of the Eden Gardens wicket where Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have faced a tough time.
Pitches are prepared according to the home team&rsquo;s batting and bowling composition. Meaning a team favoruing bowlers will prepare a bowling-friendly pitch while a team having an abundance of batting talent will shift to a batting-friendly track.
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Highest and Lowest Scores at Venues</h2>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Eden Gardens, Kolkata</h3>
Highest Score: LSG &ndash; 238/3
Lowest Score: SRH &ndash; 120/10
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">ACA Stadium, Guwahati</h3>
Highest Score: RR &ndash; 182/9
Lowest Score: RR &ndash; 151/9
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi</h3>
Highest Score: MI &ndash; 205/5
Lowest Score:&nbsp;DC &ndash; 188/5<o:p></o:p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow</h3>
Highest Score: LSG &ndash; 203/8
Lowest Score:&nbsp;LSG &ndash; 166/7
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam</h3>
Highest Score: DC &ndash; 211/9
Lowest Score:&nbsp;SRH&ndash; 163/10
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru</h3>
Highest Score: GT &ndash; 170/2
Lowest Score:&nbsp;SRH&ndash; 163/7
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai</h3>
Highest Score: RCB &ndash; 196/7
Lowest Score: CSK&ndash; 103/9
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad</h3>
Highest Score: PBKS &ndash; 243/5
Lowest Score:&nbsp;RR &ndash; 159/10
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">New PCA Stadium, New Chandigarh</h3>
Highest Score: PBKS &ndash; 219/6
Lowest Score:&nbsp;KKR &ndash; 95/10
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad</h3>
Highest Score: SRH &ndash; 286/6
Lowest Score: SRH &ndash; 152/8<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai</h3>
Highest Score: RCB &ndash; 221/5
Lowest Score: KKR &ndash; 116/10
From the figures above, it is evident that pitch plays a crucial role in dictating the team&rsquo;s win outcome. The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad has registered four of the five highest team totals in IPL 2025. While fellow South Indian tracks in Chennai and Bengaluru are yet to see 200-plus totals in IPL.
The season has also seen a low-scoring thriller when PBKS defended 111 runs against KKR, setting a new record. So it is fair to say that pitches are playing a crucial role in the outcome of matches in the IPL 2025.

India News | Sports: The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is almost at its halfway stage as 10 teams continue to fight for glory in cricket’s biggest franchise league.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is almost at its halfway stage as 10 teams continue to fight for glory in cricket’s biggest franchise league. Attention on big names, teams have been in good form and looking to make the most of their home conditions. However, the pitch has played a major factor in shaping a team’s fortunes. So are pitches playing any role in a team’s fortune at the IPL 2025 as we analyse the situation? Are pitches playing any role in IPL 2025? At the time of writing 33 matches have been played in IPL 2025, where teams have mixed records. Teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) have struggled to make an impact on home turf, where the pitch has played an important role. The pitches are generally prepared by the pitch curator on the advice of the home captain and coach, influencing home conditions. However, criticism has been drawn by the home captains for the nature of the wicket prepared, leading to the team’s defeat. Most recently, questions were raised by Ajinkya Rahane on the condition of the Eden Gardens wicket where Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have faced a tough time. Pitches are prepared according to the home team’s batting and bowling composition. Meaning a team favoruing bowlers will prepare a bowling-friendly pitch while a team having an abundance of batting talent will shift to a batting-friendly track. ALSO READ | WWE: Triple H reveals real reason behind WrestleMania 41 Night 1 main event Highest and Lowest Scores at Venues Eden Gardens, Kolkata Highest Score: LSG – 238/3 Lowest Score: SRH – 120/10 ACA Stadium, Guwahati Highest Score: RR – 182/9 Lowest Score: RR – 151/9 Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi Highest Score: MI – 205/5 Lowest Score: DC – 188/5 Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Highest Score: LSG – 203/8 Lowest Score: LSG – 166/7 VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam Highest Score: DC – 211/9 Lowest Score: SRH– 163/10 M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru Highest Score: GT – 170/2 Lowest Score: SRH– 163/7 MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Highest Score: RCB – 196/7 Lowest Score: CSK– 103/9 Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Highest Score: PBKS – 243/5 Lowest Score: RR – 159/10 New PCA Stadium, New Chandigarh Highest Score: PBKS – 219/6 Lowest Score: KKR – 95/10 Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad Highest Score: SRH – 286/6 Lowest Score: SRH – 152/8 Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Highest Score: RCB – 221/5 Lowest Score: KKR – 116/10 From the figures above, it is evident that pitch plays a crucial role in dictating the team’s win outcome. The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad has registered four of the five highest team totals in IPL 2025. While fellow South Indian tracks in Chennai and Bengaluru are yet to see 200-plus totals in IPL. The season has also seen a low-scoring thriller when PBKS defended 111 runs against KKR, setting a new record. So it is fair to say that pitches are playing a crucial role in the outcome of matches in the IPL 2025.

Explained: Are pitches influencing results at IPL 2025, here’s what we know so far

SunRisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins has taken aim at the Wankhede Stadium pitch after his side&rsquo;s latest defeat in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) at the hands of Mumbai Indians. Playing on Thursday at the iconic venue, Mumbai won the match by four wickets, while SRH were condemned to their fifth defeat of the season. The result now sees SRH occupy the ninth spot and are in danger of missing out on a spot in the Playoffs.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Cummins takes aim at Wankhede Stadium pitch</h2>
&ldquo;It wasn't the easiest wicket. Few runs short, we would have liked a couple more with the bat. Tricky wicket, when you come here you expect it to be really fluent and fast, just wasn't that. They bowled really well, shut down a lot of our hitting areas. I thought we had all our bases covered, with 160 you feel like you are a little bit short. We gave it a good crack with the ball,&rdquo; said Cummins in the post-match presentation.
According to Cummins, the pitch played a crucial role as SRH batters struggled big time. Having chased a 245-run target in their last home game, SRH found the going tough in the challenging conditions of Wankhede Stadium. They were restricted to 162/5 in 20 overs with Abhishek Sharma top scoring with 40 runs.
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The total was no challenge for the five-time champions as Mumbai beat SRH by six wickets and 11 balls to spare. All of the Mumbai Indians batters made healthy contributions as they registered back-to-back wins in the IPL 2025. They now have six points from seven matches with a positive net run rate with a playoff spot still in the reckoning.
SRH are next in action on Wednesday (April 23) when they face Mumbai Indians in the return leg at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. In the meantime, Mumbai will face arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings on Sunday at the Wankhede Stadium, targeting a hat-trick of wins.

India News Cricket | Sports: SRH captain Pat Cummins has taken aim at the Wankhede Stadium pitch after his side’s latest defeat in the IPL 2025 at the hands of MI.

SunRisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins has taken aim at the Wankhede Stadium pitch after his side’s latest defeat in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) at the hands of Mumbai Indians. Playing on Thursday at the iconic venue, Mumbai won the match by four wickets, while SRH were condemned to their fifth defeat of the season. The result now sees SRH occupy the ninth spot and are in danger of missing out on a spot in the Playoffs. Cummins takes aim at Wankhede Stadium pitch “It wasn't the easiest wicket. Few runs short, we would have liked a couple more with the bat. Tricky wicket, when you come here you expect it to be really fluent and fast, just wasn't that. They bowled really well, shut down a lot of our hitting areas. I thought we had all our bases covered, with 160 you feel like you are a little bit short. We gave it a good crack with the ball,” said Cummins in the post-match presentation. According to Cummins, the pitch played a crucial role as SRH batters struggled big time. Having chased a 245-run target in their last home game, SRH found the going tough in the challenging conditions of Wankhede Stadium. They were restricted to 162/5 in 20 overs with Abhishek Sharma top scoring with 40 runs. ALSO READ | WWE: Triple H reveals real reason behind WrestleMania 41 Night 1 main event The total was no challenge for the five-time champions as Mumbai beat SRH by six wickets and 11 balls to spare. All of the Mumbai Indians batters made healthy contributions as they registered back-to-back wins in the IPL 2025. They now have six points from seven matches with a positive net run rate with a playoff spot still in the reckoning. SRH are next in action on Wednesday (April 23) when they face Mumbai Indians in the return leg at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. In the meantime, Mumbai will face arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings on Sunday at the Wankhede Stadium, targeting a hat-trick of wins.

IPL 2025: Pat Cummins takes aim at Wankhede pitch for latest defeat, says 'it wasn't the easiest wicket'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> have returned to winning ways in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> with their second straight victory. Against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunrisers-hyderabad" rel="dofollow">SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH)</a> at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday night, Mumbai beat the visitors by four wickets, inflicting a fifth loss this edition and a blow to their chances of running for a top-four finish.
Mumbai won the toss and elected to field. At first, it looked like a brave call, considering the marvellous form SRH openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head were in heading into this game, but how they curbed the pair and restricted them from going berserk impressed everyone. From Deepak Chahar to Trent Boult to Jasprit Bumrah, everyone bowled to the plan and executed it perfectly, leading to SRH batters losing their cool and playing rash shots, eventually losing wickets.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-jaiswal-starc-catch-up-for-first-time-since-too-slow-bgt-taunt-rr-opener-lauds-seamer-for-super-over-winner-for-dc-watch-8973589" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Jaiswal-Starc catch-up for first time since &lsquo;too slow&rsquo; BGT sledge - WATCH</a>
MI bowlers never allowed Abhishek and Travis to get going, picking up each under 50, with the SRH middle order finding it tougher to get going. Excellent bowling helped MI restrict SRH on an under-par total (162 for five in 20 overs).
<h2>Mumbai&rsquo;s game to win</h2>
Rohit Sharma returned to form, much to everyone&rsquo;s cheer and delight. He hit three massive sixes in his brief stay at the crease, scoring 26 off 16 balls, adding 32 for the first wicket. Gloveman Ryan Rickelton had his chances, scoring five fours during his knock, but lost his wicket soon after.
Mumbai was always in the chase, thanks to a brilliant handy innings from Will Jacks (36) and Suryakumar Yadav (26); though MI lost both during the fag end of the innings, MI&rsquo;s batting depth in Tilak Varma and captain Hardik Pandya ensured they sail through without much hiccups.&nbsp;
However, a rare 18th over from Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Eshan Malinga, wherein he conceded just one run and picked two wickets, had everyone on the edge of their seats, but Varma&rsquo;s composed head helped MI beat SRH at home by four wickets.&nbsp;
While MI moved to the seventh place on the table with three wins from seven contested matches, SRH slipped to the ninth, conceding their fifth loss this season.

While MI moved to the seventh place on the table with three wins from seven matches, SRH slipped to the ninth, conceding their fifth loss this season. Sports, Cricket

Mumbai Indians have returned to winning ways in IPL 2025 with their second straight victory. Against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday night, Mumbai beat the visitors by four wickets, inflicting a fifth loss this edition and a blow to their chances of running for a top-four finish. Mumbai won the toss and elected to field. At first, it looked like a brave call, considering the marvellous form SRH openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head were in heading into this game, but how they curbed the pair and restricted them from going berserk impressed everyone. From Deepak Chahar to Trent Boult to Jasprit Bumrah, everyone bowled to the plan and executed it perfectly, leading to SRH batters losing their cool and playing rash shots, eventually losing wickets. Also read | IPL 2025: Jaiswal-Starc catch-up for first time since ‘too slow’ BGT sledge - WATCH MI bowlers never allowed Abhishek and Travis to get going, picking up each under 50, with the SRH middle order finding it tougher to get going. Excellent bowling helped MI restrict SRH on an under-par total (162 for five in 20 overs). Mumbai’s game to win Rohit Sharma returned to form, much to everyone’s cheer and delight. He hit three massive sixes in his brief stay at the crease, scoring 26 off 16 balls, adding 32 for the first wicket. Gloveman Ryan Rickelton had his chances, scoring five fours during his knock, but lost his wicket soon after. Mumbai was always in the chase, thanks to a brilliant handy innings from Will Jacks (36) and Suryakumar Yadav (26); though MI lost both during the fag end of the innings, MI’s batting depth in Tilak Varma and captain Hardik Pandya ensured they sail through without much hiccups. However, a rare 18th over from Sri Lanka’s Eshan Malinga, wherein he conceded just one run and picked two wickets, had everyone on the edge of their seats, but Varma’s composed head helped MI beat SRH at home by four wickets. While MI moved to the seventh place on the table with three wins from seven contested matches, SRH slipped to the ninth, conceding their fifth loss this season.

IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians win second straight game as Hyderabad drop points, rankings

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yashasvi-jaiswal" rel="dofollow">Yashasvi Jaiswal</a> is a newbie in international cricket, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-starc" rel="dofollow">Mitchell Starc</a> has been around for over a decade, both being great at what they love doing. However, following Delhi Capitals&rsquo; home game against Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday night in IPL 2025, which the hosts won inside the Super Over, both caught up candidly, with Jaiswal hugging and lauding the Aussie quick for his heroics in the last over during the chase and DC&rsquo;s Super Over.
Although both had crossed paths several times since Jaiswal&rsquo;s &lsquo;too slow&rsquo; remarks to him during the second innings of the BGT opener in Perth, where he scored a match-winning 161, this was their first public catch-up, with both greeting each other with all but respect.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-franchise-rcb-drag-uber-to-delhi-court-over-targeted-attack-in-promotional-video-srh-travis-head-8973364" rel="dofollow">IPL franchise RCB drag Uber to Delhi court over &lsquo;targeted attack&rsquo; in promotional video</a>
<h3>Watch Video -</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9lk3fj3-gzpn6wje-yed3ka2i">
The way YBJ called Starcy a legend... feels 🥹💙 <a href="https://t.co/fTDhi7YWU5">pic.twitter.com/fTDhi7YWU5</a>
&mdash; Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1912771806714339454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
Starc has been on a rampage since joining Delhi this season, returning with ten wickets from six contested matches, including picking his maiden five-for in this format.&nbsp;
Against Rajasthan, he was at the top of his game. Accounting for RR&rsquo;s best batter, Nitish Rana, on 51, Starc returned to bowl the final over, with his team needing to defend just nine runs. For as good as he is, Starc bowled rockets and tight lines, defending nine runs, as Rajasthan could complete only eight, resulting in the game going into the Super Over &ndash; the first for this season and in four years.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mca-take-bcci-route-make-it-mandatory-for-suryakumar-yadav-shreyas-iyer-shivam-dube-rohit-sharma-to-play-mumbai-t20-league-ipl-8972992" rel="dofollow">MCA take BCCI route, make it &lsquo;mandatory&rsquo; for star India players to play THIS league</a>
Starc bowled the Super Over, conceding 11 runs, picking one wicket and resulting in another via run out.
Delhi batters Tristan Stubbs and KL Rahul completed the chase without losing a wicket, with Delhi winning the game and maintaining their stance at the top of the points table with five wins from six contested matches.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9lk4t6z-pugbeqcr-6zkqzujr">
𝙉𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙨. 𝘿𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙖. 𝙀𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨! 😉 A quick morning catch-up on that late-night Super-Over nail-biter! 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvRR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvRR</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://t.co/QeKsfPmCyk">pic.twitter.com/QeKsfPmCyk</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1912711260157755467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Jaiswal&rsquo;s cheeky &lsquo;too slow&rsquo; remark</h2>
Playing his first Test Down Under and that too in Perth, where the pitches on offer aid the seamers big time, Jaiswal returned to the pavilion early in the first innings (to Starc) but made the most of his chance in the second, hammering his third-highest Test score. He took the attack to the seamers, including Starc, later taunting him, saying, &lsquo;too slow&rsquo; &ndash; referring to his bowling speed.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rJ9x3_mBUE0?si=C7GBQE2U0h2bqLC5" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Although he enjoyed his moment, winning the game for India, he failed to get going against perhaps the best left-arm quick after that, going down to Starc on several occasions, including on a first-ball duck in the first innings of the next game in Adelaide.
(With inputs from agencies)

Starc has been on a rampage since joining Delhi Capitals this season, returning with ten wickets from six contested matches. Sports, Cricket

Yashasvi Jaiswal is a newbie in international cricket, and Mitchell Starc has been around for over a decade, both being great at what they love doing. However, following Delhi Capitals’ home game against Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday night in IPL 2025, which the hosts won inside the Super Over, both caught up candidly, with Jaiswal hugging and lauding the Aussie quick for his heroics in the last over during the chase and DC’s Super Over. Although both had crossed paths several times since Jaiswal’s ‘too slow’ remarks to him during the second innings of the BGT opener in Perth, where he scored a match-winning 161, this was their first public catch-up, with both greeting each other with all but respect. Also read | IPL franchise RCB drag Uber to Delhi court over ‘targeted attack’ in promotional video Watch Video - The way YBJ called Starcy a legend... feels 🥹💙 pic.twitter.com/fTDhi7YWU5 — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 17, 2025 Starc has been on a rampage since joining Delhi this season, returning with ten wickets from six contested matches, including picking his maiden five-for in this format. Against Rajasthan, he was at the top of his game. Accounting for RR’s best batter, Nitish Rana, on 51, Starc returned to bowl the final over, with his team needing to defend just nine runs. For as good as he is, Starc bowled rockets and tight lines, defending nine runs, as Rajasthan could complete only eight, resulting in the game going into the Super Over – the first for this season and in four years. Also read | MCA take BCCI route, make it ‘mandatory’ for star India players to play THIS league Starc bowled the Super Over, conceding 11 runs, picking one wicket and resulting in another via run out. Delhi batters Tristan Stubbs and KL Rahul completed the chase without losing a wicket, with Delhi winning the game and maintaining their stance at the top of the points table with five wins from six contested matches. 𝙉𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙨. 𝘿𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙖. 𝙀𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨! 😉 A quick morning catch-up on that late-night Super-Over nail-biter! 🙌#TATAIPL | #DCvRR | @DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/QeKsfPmCyk — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 17, 2025 Jaiswal’s cheeky ‘too slow’ remark Playing his first Test Down Under and that too in Perth, where the pitches on offer aid the seamers big time, Jaiswal returned to the pavilion early in the first innings (to Starc) but made the most of his chance in the second, hammering his third-highest Test score. He took the attack to the seamers, including Starc, later taunting him, saying, ‘too slow’ – referring to his bowling speed. Although he enjoyed his moment, winning the game for India, he failed to get going against perhaps the best left-arm quick after that, going down to Starc on several occasions, including on a first-ball duck in the first innings of the next game in Adelaide. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Jaiswal-Starc catch-up for first time since ‘too slow’ BGT sledge - WATCH

In a strange turn of events during the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, franchise <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> has dragged the cab-hailing service provider &lsquo;Uber&rsquo; to the Delhi court over infringement and disparagement of their brand in an advertisement aired earlier during the season. Australia batting star and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunrisers-hyderabad" rel="dofollow">SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH)</a> opener Travis Head, the protagonist in that promotional video, finds himself in a legal tussle amidst the ongoing season.
Head starred in Uber&rsquo;s comic bike-taxi Moto service advertisement, built around the proposition of &lsquo;Baddies of Bengaluru&rsquo;. That ad showed Head breaking into a stadium and vandalising it with the words, &lsquo;Royally Challenged Bengaluru&rsquo;, only to sneak away by booking an Uber Moto service.
<h3>Watch Video -</h3>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iSHexPbHpRI?si=4u3AbpDv0UfhwxBM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
It, however, didn&rsquo;t sit well with Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd, the parent body of the IPL franchise RCB, who accused Uber of attempting to tarnish RCB&rsquo;s brand name, also of copyright violation for using the phrase, &lsquo;Ee sala cup namde&rsquo;, trademarked to Royal Challengers Sports.
&ldquo;This is a targeted attempt to mock and dilute the identity of Royal Challengers Bengaluru,&rdquo; Shwetasree Majumder, RCB&rsquo;s counsel, said to Justice Saurabh Banerjee, per LiveLaw.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-to-hand-central-contracts-abhishek-sharma-shreyas-iyer-nitish-kumar-reddy-harshit-rana-ishan-kishan-8972794" rel="dofollow">BCCI to hand central contracts to Abhishek, Shreyas; rookie players included | details inside</a>
Meanwhile, she also argued that by doing so, the cab-service giants tried going against the law, particularly as a commercial partner for a competitor in SRH.
&ldquo;You had millions of creative ways to do an advertisement. Did you have to do it using my trademark? And using someone who was earlier with me?&rdquo; Majumder said while referencing how Travis Head was once part of the RCB franchise before moving to SunRisers Hyderabad. &ldquo;Does parity, fair use defence lie in the mouth of Uber Moto?&rdquo;
<h2>Uber replies to RCB</h2>
Uber didn&rsquo;t take long before replying to the IPL franchise over this legal issue. Uber&rsquo;s counsel argued that during this promotional video, Uber never referred to RCB in the first place; on those grounds, they have not attempted to harm the franchise&rsquo;s reputation in any way.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If I am referring to RCB, and that is the script of the ad, then I am entitled to refer to them so long as I do it without disparaging them or encashing on their reputation, and there is no harm to their trademark,&rdquo; Uber counsel replied to the RCB. &ldquo;There is no direct use of the plaintiff&rsquo;s registered trademarks, such as &lsquo;Royal Challengers Bengaluru&rsquo;. The reference to &lsquo;Bengaluru vs Hyderabad&rsquo; is generic and does not amount to infringement.&rdquo;
Uber&rsquo;s representative also added that RCB should combat humour with humour and not a lawsuit, adding the reference to Bengaluru was due to the city&rsquo;s reputation as one with horrible traffic congestion.&nbsp;
&ldquo;RCB should combat humour with humour, not with a lawsuit," said Uber's representative.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Australia and SRH opener Travis Head, the protagonist in that promotional video, finds himself in a legal tussle amidst the ongoing season. Sports, Cricket

In a strange turn of events during the ongoing IPL 2025, franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has dragged the cab-hailing service provider ‘Uber’ to the Delhi court over infringement and disparagement of their brand in an advertisement aired earlier during the season. Australia batting star and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) opener Travis Head, the protagonist in that promotional video, finds himself in a legal tussle amidst the ongoing season. Head starred in Uber’s comic bike-taxi Moto service advertisement, built around the proposition of ‘Baddies of Bengaluru’. That ad showed Head breaking into a stadium and vandalising it with the words, ‘Royally Challenged Bengaluru’, only to sneak away by booking an Uber Moto service. Watch Video - It, however, didn’t sit well with Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd, the parent body of the IPL franchise RCB, who accused Uber of attempting to tarnish RCB’s brand name, also of copyright violation for using the phrase, ‘Ee sala cup namde’, trademarked to Royal Challengers Sports. “This is a targeted attempt to mock and dilute the identity of Royal Challengers Bengaluru,” Shwetasree Majumder, RCB’s counsel, said to Justice Saurabh Banerjee, per LiveLaw. Also read | BCCI to hand central contracts to Abhishek, Shreyas; rookie players included | details inside Meanwhile, she also argued that by doing so, the cab-service giants tried going against the law, particularly as a commercial partner for a competitor in SRH. “You had millions of creative ways to do an advertisement. Did you have to do it using my trademark? And using someone who was earlier with me?” Majumder said while referencing how Travis Head was once part of the RCB franchise before moving to SunRisers Hyderabad. “Does parity, fair use defence lie in the mouth of Uber Moto?” Uber replies to RCB Uber didn’t take long before replying to the IPL franchise over this legal issue. Uber’s counsel argued that during this promotional video, Uber never referred to RCB in the first place; on those grounds, they have not attempted to harm the franchise’s reputation in any way. “If I am referring to RCB, and that is the script of the ad, then I am entitled to refer to them so long as I do it without disparaging them or encashing on their reputation, and there is no harm to their trademark,” Uber counsel replied to the RCB. “There is no direct use of the plaintiff’s registered trademarks, such as ‘Royal Challengers Bengaluru’. The reference to ‘Bengaluru vs Hyderabad’ is generic and does not amount to infringement.” Uber’s representative also added that RCB should combat humour with humour and not a lawsuit, adding the reference to Bengaluru was due to the city’s reputation as one with horrible traffic congestion. “RCB should combat humour with humour, not with a lawsuit," said Uber's representative. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL franchise RCB drag Uber to Delhi court over ‘targeted attack’ in promotional video

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is nearing the halfway mark with the tournament being more or less a batting friendly edition. Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), however, have found it hard to get going and be part of that six-hitting spree.
The other five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have also not been able to win their games but they now have Jasprit Bumrah who is back after suffering a back issue in January earlier this year. It'll be important to manage Bumrah's workload with England Test tour scheduled right after the IPL.
One other name who could make a comeback in Indian team is Karun Nair - he's been sensational in recent times in domestic cricket and scored a brilliant 90-odd in his first IPL innings after three years.
Also Read - <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mca-take-bcci-route-make-it-mandatory-for-suryakumar-yadav-shreyas-iyer-shivam-dube-rohit-sharma-to-play-mumbai-t20-league-ipl-8972992" aria-label="MCA take BCCI route, make it &lsquo;mandatory&rsquo; for star India players to play THIS league">MCA take BCCI route, make it &lsquo;mandatory&rsquo; for star India players to play THIS league</a>
WION had a chat with former India women's team skipper Anjum Chopra regarding all those things and here's what she had to say:
<h2>What do you think that's been ailing Chennai Super Kings this season?&nbsp;</h2>
Well, obviously they've not been able to finish the matches in their favour and that is the only thing. The matches that they are playing, if they had won, two or three of those matches, they could have won or normally, when the Chennai team plays other than losing, they win. So, we always say that there is experience in that side. But because those matches, they have not ended up as a winning team.
So suddenly, one after another, when the losses happen, you start asking questions. What is happening? Nothing is happening. It's just that that opening combination did not start well for them then the middle order has not been able to capitalise. So, small, small areas which they have been missing out, or in the fielding, or small areas in the bowling. And small areas, we've seen, you miss on those and opportunity arises for the opposition to utilise those areas. And that's how the matches have been getting slipped from their side to the opposition side.&nbsp;
Also, do you feel like Chennai Super Kings do not have as much power hitting options as other teams?
I think the very fact that Shivam Dubey was such a star attraction when he started hitting last season or the year before that as well and he is still doing the same. So, if he is missing anything, is just somebody else hitting at the other end who is also striking the ball like that. The last couple of seasons, Ruturaj has been giving them such good starts. But Ruturaj, change of batting order, then him picking up an injury has not helped. Now, he is batting at three. So, even if you bat at three, it means obviously few deliveries unless you walk in on the second or the third ball of the match. So, everything changes.&nbsp;
They tried changing the opening combination. It didn't work. The effect was that in the middle order also, somebody apart from Shivam was not able to capitalize. And that start was also not helping. So, few areas, it's not that they are missing out. Once you start winning those matches, then things change and people say, oh wow, Vijay Shankar is such an asset. Deepak Hooda hasn't done well for them. Devon Conway in the last few matches, yes, he is there but, you know, it's not been that kind of a start or an impact. Even Rachin Ravindra. So, small, small areas. Again, if the players are not utilizing their opportunities, then what can the captain do or anybody else do?&nbsp;
Talking about the captains, how good has been Shreyas Iyer this season?&nbsp;
You know, when you win an IPL, obviously the confidence is high. Number one is that also he, in any case, has been a very good captain. And it's not only that he has to prove his captaincy coming into an IPL team. I've seen him, you know, he is one of those, he likes the responsibility. He likes those tough situations and he thrives on them. So, when he is captaining an IPL side and they've ended up winning, it's not a surprise.
It's also not that for the first time he has suddenly become captain. He has been around from domestic cricket side and he has been groomed for it as well. So, yes, the confidence is there after winning an IPL.
Every year IPL throws up some stars, uncapped or capped players. This season has been really about Digvesh Rathi and his celebrations. How do you think that he's going about his bowling after being picked up from local leagues?&nbsp;
Very good. I think it's about talent meets opportunity. If IPL is throwing up such talented cricketers, I mean, we should feel very happy that the way our domestic cricket is structured or is being run over the past so many years. IPL in its 18th season is actually showcasing that you don't need four international players to win your contest. More and more franchises or captains, they're seeing that, you know, their Indian domestic players are performing better than international players.
So, it's obviously talking about the depth of Indian cricket, which is very good. And as I say again, it's not that overnight things have changed. If in the 18th IPL season, we are seeing a Priyansh Arya come through and he'll be back in the nets it's not overnight that things happen. Again, it goes back to the depth and opportunity that, you know, our cricketers have, and they're making the most of it.&nbsp;
There may be so many more Digvesh Rathis or Priyansh Aryas in the system all over our country, who have not got the opportunity, who are unable to show skills. They might be even better at their skills, but we do not see them or we have not seen them. But those that we have seen or we are seeing, I think it's a great moment of pride to say that, you know, we as an India has such talent in our country. &nbsp;
Karun Nair - he was sensational in his first innings for DC and there's been chatter around him that he might have a chance at India comeback. Where do you see him, if he continues to perform like that?&nbsp;
Anybody has a chance of an India comeback. As long as they're playing cricket, any and everyone has a chance. Nobody's gone, I mean, again, of course, till the time you say that you are not looking to play international cricket and you just want to participate in leagues and whatever.
But thing is, Indian cricket doesn't say or international cricket doesn't say that, you know, we will only pick players from this bracket or that bracket. That is not there. People who are performing can go on and play for the country. Country requires match winners and champions. So whether he makes a comeback or he doesn't make a comeback in the Indian League, that is for time to tell. But if he has come back and started performing well in domestic cricket and we saw what he did in that innings, it's brilliant, you know. He was always a very good player. 300 runs scored in a Test match does not happen in a fluke. Obviously, he has had that talent before also. But now he has realised his potential or he is realising his potential again, which is very nice. So it's good. Whether he comes back in the Indian team or not, we'll see.
With England series just right after the IPL, how do you think that IPL or BCCI should be managing Jasprit Bumrah's workload given that he is just back from injury?&nbsp;
That's for the doctors to decide. I mean, you and me or anybody else, we are not aware as to what is the injury, how is he after managing that workload since come back. So obviously, they would have seen that he is fit to bowl. The doctors have given him a clearance that he is fit to bowl and he is participating, he is travelling.
People in the system are well aware of the fact that what is coming up, what is the kind of workload that not only Jasprit, but anybody else also, whether it's Mohammad Siraj or Arshdeep or anyone, is managing. So they will manage it. It's not that today you just wrap him in cotton wool and keep him. No. Human body needs to train as well. So his workload is definitely getting managed. I'm sure it is getting managed and being watched as well. How much is he bowling, whatever. So there is a proper system to it and that system runs for everyone. So for Jasprit also, that system is up for monitoring how he is doing.&nbsp;
With IPL reaching its near half stage, what are your top four picks if you'll have it?&nbsp;
I mean, it's difficult to say because we've seen how matches can go up and down. And that's the beauty of it. It's not only this season, even in the last few seasons, we've seen that the teams who have started at the top don't end up at the top. So it's about maintaining that combination, that form. It's a very long tournament.&nbsp;
If you look at Chennai, they have probably rotated almost 18-19 players? For Punjab, they would have rotated about 13 or 14 players with injuries. Teams who have won matches right at the start have not looked to rotate many players around.
And those who, like Chennai, whenever Chennai wins, they hardly change the combination. So it's difficult to say right now. We certainly have teams who have been winning. We say, wow, they're looking very good. They're looking very good. But we can only have one winner.
We'll see. Right now, that's why we talk about the net run rate being so crucial. Even if you have a slump or a slide on that points table, there is a net run rate which can save you and allow you to come back.

IPL 2025 is nearing the halfway mark with the tournament being more or less a batting friendly edition. Five-time champions CSK, however, have found it hard to get going and be part of that six-hitting spree. Cricket sports

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is nearing the halfway mark with the tournament being more or less a batting friendly edition. Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), however, have found it hard to get going and be part of that six-hitting spree. The other five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have also not been able to win their games but they now have Jasprit Bumrah who is back after suffering a back issue in January earlier this year. It'll be important to manage Bumrah's workload with England Test tour scheduled right after the IPL. One other name who could make a comeback in Indian team is Karun Nair - he's been sensational in recent times in domestic cricket and scored a brilliant 90-odd in his first IPL innings after three years. Also Read - MCA take BCCI route, make it ‘mandatory’ for star India players to play THIS league WION had a chat with former India women's team skipper Anjum Chopra regarding all those things and here's what she had to say: What do you think that's been ailing Chennai Super Kings this season? Well, obviously they've not been able to finish the matches in their favour and that is the only thing. The matches that they are playing, if they had won, two or three of those matches, they could have won or normally, when the Chennai team plays other than losing, they win. So, we always say that there is experience in that side. But because those matches, they have not ended up as a winning team. So suddenly, one after another, when the losses happen, you start asking questions. What is happening? Nothing is happening. It's just that that opening combination did not start well for them then the middle order has not been able to capitalise. So, small, small areas which they have been missing out, or in the fielding, or small areas in the bowling. And small areas, we've seen, you miss on those and opportunity arises for the opposition to utilise those areas. And that's how the matches have been getting slipped from their side to the opposition side. Also, do you feel like Chennai Super Kings do not have as much power hitting options as other teams? I think the very fact that Shivam Dubey was such a star attraction when he started hitting last season or the year before that as well and he is still doing the same. So, if he is missing anything, is just somebody else hitting at the other end who is also striking the ball like that. The last couple of seasons, Ruturaj has been giving them such good starts. But Ruturaj, change of batting order, then him picking up an injury has not helped. Now, he is batting at three. So, even if you bat at three, it means obviously few deliveries unless you walk in on the second or the third ball of the match. So, everything changes. They tried changing the opening combination. It didn't work. The effect was that in the middle order also, somebody apart from Shivam was not able to capitalize. And that start was also not helping. So, few areas, it's not that they are missing out. Once you start winning those matches, then things change and people say, oh wow, Vijay Shankar is such an asset. Deepak Hooda hasn't done well for them. Devon Conway in the last few matches, yes, he is there but, you know, it's not been that kind of a start or an impact. Even Rachin Ravindra. So, small, small areas. Again, if the players are not utilizing their opportunities, then what can the captain do or anybody else do? Talking about the captains, how good has been Shreyas Iyer this season? You know, when you win an IPL, obviously the confidence is high. Number one is that also he, in any case, has been a very good captain. And it's not only that he has to prove his captaincy coming into an IPL team. I've seen him, you know, he is one of those, he likes the responsibility. He likes those tough situations and he thrives on them. So, when he is captaining an IPL side and they've ended up winning, it's not a surprise. It's also not that for the first time he has suddenly become captain. He has been around from domestic cricket side and he has been groomed for it as well. So, yes, the confidence is there after winning an IPL. Every year IPL throws up some stars, uncapped or capped players. This season has been really about Digvesh Rathi and his celebrations. How do you think that he's going about his bowling after being picked up from local leagues? Very good. I think it's about talent meets opportunity. If IPL is throwing up such talented cricketers, I mean, we should feel very happy that the way our domestic cricket is structured or is being run over the past so many years. IPL in its 18th season is actually showcasing that you don't need four international players to win your contest. More and more franchises or captains, they're seeing that, you know, their Indian domestic players are performing better than international players. So, it's obviously talking about the depth of Indian cricket, which is very good. And as I say again, it's not that overnight things have changed. If in the 18th IPL season, we are seeing a Priyansh Arya come through and he'll be back in the nets it's not overnight that things happen. Again, it goes back to the depth and opportunity that, you know, our cricketers have, and they're making the most of it. There may be so many more Digvesh Rathis or Priyansh Aryas in the system all over our country, who have not got the opportunity, who are unable to show skills. They might be even better at their skills, but we do not see them or we have not seen them. But those that we have seen or we are seeing, I think it's a great moment of pride to say that, you know, we as an India has such talent in our country. Karun Nair - he was sensational in his first innings for DC and there's been chatter around him that he might have a chance at India comeback. Where do you see him, if he continues to perform like that? Anybody has a chance of an India comeback. As long as they're playing cricket, any and everyone has a chance. Nobody's gone, I mean, again, of course, till the time you say that you are not looking to play international cricket and you just want to participate in leagues and whatever. But thing is, Indian cricket doesn't say or international cricket doesn't say that, you know, we will only pick players from this bracket or that bracket. That is not there. People who are performing can go on and play for the country. Country requires match winners and champions. So whether he makes a comeback or he doesn't make a comeback in the Indian League, that is for time to tell. But if he has come back and started performing well in domestic cricket and we saw what he did in that innings, it's brilliant, you know. He was always a very good player. 300 runs scored in a Test match does not happen in a fluke. Obviously, he has had that talent before also. But now he has realised his potential or he is realising his potential again, which is very nice. So it's good. Whether he comes back in the Indian team or not, we'll see. With England series just right after the IPL, how do you think that IPL or BCCI should be managing Jasprit Bumrah's workload given that he is just back from injury? That's for the doctors to decide. I mean, you and me or anybody else, we are not aware as to what is the injury, how is he after managing that workload since come back. So obviously, they would have seen that he is fit to bowl. The doctors have given him a clearance that he is fit to bowl and he is participating, he is travelling. People in the system are well aware of the fact that what is coming up, what is the kind of workload that not only Jasprit, but anybody else also, whether it's Mohammad Siraj or Arshdeep or anyone, is managing. So they will manage it. It's not that today you just wrap him in cotton wool and keep him. No. Human body needs to train as well. So his workload is definitely getting managed. I'm sure it is getting managed and being watched as well. How much is he bowling, whatever. So there is a proper system to it and that system runs for everyone. So for Jasprit also, that system is up for monitoring how he is doing. With IPL reaching its near half stage, what are your top four picks if you'll have it? I mean, it's difficult to say because we've seen how matches can go up and down. And that's the beauty of it. It's not only this season, even in the last few seasons, we've seen that the teams who have started at the top don't end up at the top. So it's about maintaining that combination, that form. It's a very long tournament. If you look at Chennai, they have probably rotated almost 18-19 players? For Punjab, they would have rotated about 13 or 14 players with injuries. Teams who have won matches right at the start have not looked to rotate many players around. And those who, like Chennai, whenever Chennai wins, they hardly change the combination. So it's difficult to say right now. We certainly have teams who have been winning. We say, wow, they're looking very good. They're looking very good. But we can only have one winner. We'll see. Right now, that's why we talk about the net run rate being so crucial. Even if you have a slump or a slide on that points table, there is a net run rate which can save you and allow you to come back.

Exclusive: What's ailing CSK in IPL 2025 - Former India women's skipper Anjum Chopra shares thoughts

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals" rel="dofollow">Delhi Capitals (DC)</a> have maintained their stance at the top of the points table with five wins from six contested matches in IPL 2025, with their latest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-porel-stubbs-take-delhi-capitals-to-1885-against-rajasthan-royals-8969860" rel="dofollow">victory against Rajasthan Royals in the first super over</a> of the season making headlines. A win at home propelled them to stay ahead of Gujarat Titans &ndash; their opponent in the next game- and DC captain Axar Patel hinted at vice-captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/faf-du-plessis" rel="dofollow">Faf du Plessis</a>&rsquo; return for that match, bolstering their batting attack.
Faf last played against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 10 and has been out of action since due to an injury. Following beating RR, Axar talked about having the Proteas great back for the table toppers. Without detailing enough on the nature of his injury and confirming his participation in the next marquee clash, Axar said,&nbsp;
"I had been told that he wouldn't be able to play three matches - that's the time he needs to recover - and two matches are done," Axar said. "Maybe he will play the Gujarat game. But the physio has to confirm how his rehab has been going."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cricket-ipl-2025-axar-patel-heaps-praise-at-super-mitchell-starc-as-delhi-capitals-oust-rajasthan-royals-in-super-over-8970642" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Axar Patel heaps praise at 'Super' Mitchell Starc as Delhi Capitals oust Rajasthan Royals in Super Over</a>
Against RCB, Faf suffered an injury while fielding, and though he batted in that game, scoring just two, he missed Delhi&rsquo;s next tie against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on April 5, with the skipper revealing, &lsquo;Faf isn&rsquo;t fit.&rsquo;
Though Delhi&rsquo;s top order has fetched runs this season thus far, with gloveman Abishek Porel and seasoned batter KL Rahul leading the chart, Fraser McGurk&rsquo;s poor run with the bat has somehow restricted their flow of runs inside the Powerplay. The Aussie batter has scored just 55 runs in six contested matches, striking at 105.76, with his best being 38. He looks likely to make way for Faf, should the South Africa great clear fitness test and remain available for selection.
With Delhi playing just three overseas players since Faf&rsquo;s injury, they could stick to the winning combination, including one mandatory (abovementioned) change from the next game onwards.
<h2>Is Kuldeep okay?</h2>
During the 17th over of the chase, Delhi spinner Kuldeep Yadav landed heavily on his shoulder while fielding, with the team physio running towards him to check him. Team captain Axar provided an update on his injury concern.
"I have no update on Kuldeep yet," Axar said. "If something serious had happened, then we would have known by now."
(With inputs from agencies)

Against RCB, Faf suffered an injury while fielding, and though he batted in that game, scoring just two, he missed Delhi’s next tie against CSK. Sports, Cricket

Delhi Capitals (DC) have maintained their stance at the top of the points table with five wins from six contested matches in IPL 2025, with their latest victory against Rajasthan Royals in the first super over of the season making headlines. A win at home propelled them to stay ahead of Gujarat Titans – their opponent in the next game- and DC captain Axar Patel hinted at vice-captain Faf du Plessis’ return for that match, bolstering their batting attack. Faf last played against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 10 and has been out of action since due to an injury. Following beating RR, Axar talked about having the Proteas great back for the table toppers. Without detailing enough on the nature of his injury and confirming his participation in the next marquee clash, Axar said, "I had been told that he wouldn't be able to play three matches - that's the time he needs to recover - and two matches are done," Axar said. "Maybe he will play the Gujarat game. But the physio has to confirm how his rehab has been going." Also read | IPL 2025: Axar Patel heaps praise at 'Super' Mitchell Starc as Delhi Capitals oust Rajasthan Royals in Super Over Against RCB, Faf suffered an injury while fielding, and though he batted in that game, scoring just two, he missed Delhi’s next tie against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on April 5, with the skipper revealing, ‘Faf isn’t fit.’ Though Delhi’s top order has fetched runs this season thus far, with gloveman Abishek Porel and seasoned batter KL Rahul leading the chart, Fraser McGurk’s poor run with the bat has somehow restricted their flow of runs inside the Powerplay. The Aussie batter has scored just 55 runs in six contested matches, striking at 105.76, with his best being 38. He looks likely to make way for Faf, should the South Africa great clear fitness test and remain available for selection. With Delhi playing just three overseas players since Faf’s injury, they could stick to the winning combination, including one mandatory (abovementioned) change from the next game onwards. Is Kuldeep okay? During the 17th over of the chase, Delhi spinner Kuldeep Yadav landed heavily on his shoulder while fielding, with the team physio running towards him to check him. Team captain Axar provided an update on his injury concern. "I have no update on Kuldeep yet," Axar said. "If something serious had happened, then we would have known by now." (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: DC captain Axar Patel drops hint on Faf du Plessis' return after Rajasthan win

MI vs SRH Dream11 Prediction:&nbsp;Mumbai Indians will look to gain momentum in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) as they take on SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Having beaten Delhi Capitals in a thriller on Sunday, the match will have plenty of bearings, considering both teams head into this one with wins in their previous contests. So here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the MI vs SRH contest.&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">MI vs SRH Match Preview</h2>
Mumbai Indians and SunRisers Hyderabad head into the match sitting, seventh and ninth respectively. Both teams have won their previous contests and will be eyeing momentum as we enter the second half of the IPL season. However, a defeat for either side will see them drop crucial points in the race for the IPL 2025 Playoff.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">MI vs SRH Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11</h2>
Wicketkeeper: Heinrich Klaasen, Ryan Rickelton 
Batters: Travis Head, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav 
All-Rounders: Abhishek Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Mitchell Santner 
Bowlers: Pat Cummins, Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">MI vs SRH Head-to-Head Records</h2>
Thursday's meeting between MI and SRH will be the 24th between the franchises with the former leading the way with 13 wins. SRH on the other hand have won 10 with no matches ending in no result.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices<o:p></o:p></h2>
1. Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;
Suryakumar Yadav has a stunning record in this format and has done well for both India and Mumbai Indians. He scored a half century in the previous match and we can back him to do well.
2. Abhishek Sharma&nbsp;
Abhishek Sharma scored 141 runs in the previous match and will be a good pick against this opposition.
3. Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya has been in great form for Mumbai Indians despite the team suffering odd defeats. Pandya produced a great show with ball against LSG before coming good with the bat against RCB.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-updated-points-table-indian-premier-league-rankings-standings-net-run-rate-8888780" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">MI vs SRH Fantasy Cricket Tips<o:p></o:p></h2>
Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya will be value addition to the side, so we suggest you to pick them in the Dream11 for the IPL 2025 contest.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mumbai Indians vs SunRisers Hyderabad Team Analysis<o:p></o:p></h2>
MI: MI are seventh in the points table with two wins and four losses in six matches. They beat Delhi Capitals by 12 runs in the previous match and will be looking to take the momentum as they are back at their home venue.
SRH:&nbsp;SRH are placed ninth in the table with two wins and four losses in six matches. They finally broke a streak of four losses in a row with a dominating win over Punjab Kings in the previous match by chasing down 245 which is the second highest successful chase in history of IPL. This should be a closely fought game.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Wankhede Stadium Pitch Report<o:p></o:p></h2>
The pitch at Wankhede Stadium is renowned for its batting-friendly conditions, where a quick outfield and short boundaries create the perfect setting for high-scoring encounters.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for MI vs SRH Dream11 Fantasy Cricket<o:p></o:p></h2>
Wicketkeeper: Heinrich Klaasen, Ryan Rickelton (C), Ishan Kishan 
Batters: Suryakumar Yadav, Travis Head (VC), Tilak Verma 
All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya, Abhishek Sharma 
Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, Trent Boult 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Match Prediction: Who Will Win MI vs SRH?</h2>
Considering SRH and MI are in poor form and struggling to climb the table it will be a vital contest. However, the home crowd could play a huge advantage, meaning Mumbai have slight edge in the contest. So we predict Mumbai Indians to beat SunRisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025.
Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

India News | Sports: Mumbai Indians will look to gain momentum in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) as they take on SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Wankhede Stadium.

MI vs SRH Dream11 Prediction: Mumbai Indians will look to gain momentum in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) as they take on SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Having beaten Delhi Capitals in a thriller on Sunday, the match will have plenty of bearings, considering both teams head into this one with wins in their previous contests. So here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the MI vs SRH contest. MI vs SRH Match Preview Mumbai Indians and SunRisers Hyderabad head into the match sitting, seventh and ninth respectively. Both teams have won their previous contests and will be eyeing momentum as we enter the second half of the IPL season. However, a defeat for either side will see them drop crucial points in the race for the IPL 2025 Playoff. MI vs SRH Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11 Wicketkeeper: Heinrich Klaasen, Ryan Rickelton Batters: Travis Head, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav All-Rounders: Abhishek Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Mitchell Santner Bowlers: Pat Cummins, Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah MI vs SRH Head-to-Head Records Thursday's meeting between MI and SRH will be the 24th between the franchises with the former leading the way with 13 wins. SRH on the other hand have won 10 with no matches ending in no result. 3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices 1. Suryakumar Yadav Suryakumar Yadav has a stunning record in this format and has done well for both India and Mumbai Indians. He scored a half century in the previous match and we can back him to do well. 2. Abhishek Sharma Abhishek Sharma scored 141 runs in the previous match and will be a good pick against this opposition. 3. Hardik Pandya Hardik Pandya has been in great form for Mumbai Indians despite the team suffering odd defeats. Pandya produced a great show with ball against LSG before coming good with the bat against RCB. ALSO READ | 'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details MI vs SRH Fantasy Cricket Tips Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya will be value addition to the side, so we suggest you to pick them in the Dream11 for the IPL 2025 contest. Mumbai Indians vs SunRisers Hyderabad Team Analysis MI: MI are seventh in the points table with two wins and four losses in six matches. They beat Delhi Capitals by 12 runs in the previous match and will be looking to take the momentum as they are back at their home venue. SRH: SRH are placed ninth in the table with two wins and four losses in six matches. They finally broke a streak of four losses in a row with a dominating win over Punjab Kings in the previous match by chasing down 245 which is the second highest successful chase in history of IPL. This should be a closely fought game. Wankhede Stadium Pitch Report The pitch at Wankhede Stadium is renowned for its batting-friendly conditions, where a quick outfield and short boundaries create the perfect setting for high-scoring encounters. Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for MI vs SRH Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Wicketkeeper: Heinrich Klaasen, Ryan Rickelton (C), Ishan Kishan Batters: Suryakumar Yadav, Travis Head (VC), Tilak Verma All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya, Abhishek Sharma Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, Trent Boult Match Prediction: Who Will Win MI vs SRH? Considering SRH and MI are in poor form and struggling to climb the table it will be a vital contest. However, the home crowd could play a huge advantage, meaning Mumbai have slight edge in the contest. So we predict Mumbai Indians to beat SunRisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025. Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

MI vs SRH Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for Mumbai Indians vs SunRisers Hyderabad

Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost a high-octane IPL 2025 thriller against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday (Apr 16) after Super Over drama. Their decision to send Shimron Hetmyer and Riyan Parag to face Mitchell Starc, however, didn't go down well with the experts.&nbsp;
RR's highest scorer of the night Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Rana were overlooked for Parag and Hetmyer as they scored 11 runs in the six designated balls. While Jaiswal still came to bat after Parag's wicket, Rana was not given a chance at all.
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-wish-they-checked-bats-when-i-was-bowling-says-srh-head-coach-daniel-vettori-8969722" aria-label="IPL 2025: 'Wish they checked bats when I was bowling', says SRH head coach Daniel Vettori">IPL 2025: 'Wish they checked bats when I was bowling', says SRH head coach Daniel Vettori</a>
Speaking on the decision, Rana, who had scored 51 off 28 balls, backed the decision by management at the post-match press conference.
"The management takes the call, not one person. The captain is there along with two other senior players and coaches. If Shimron Hetmyer had hit two sixes, then you wouldn't be asking this question. I will give the same answer. I don't have any other answer. Whatever decisions we took was absolutely right. Hetmyer is our finisher, that everyone knows. He has delivered in the past," Rana said.
<h2>Pujara calls out decision to not send Rana</h2>
Veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara, however, called out decision to not send Nitish Rana to bat.
"I think Nitish should have been there in those three," Pujara said on ESPNcricinfo show. "But I don't know whether he should have started. I would want Jaiswal to start because of the way he bats against Mitchell Starc - his record [against Starc] has been phenomenal across formats [26 runs from 15 balls without a dismissal in T20s and 133 from 203 with three dismissals in Tests].
"I know it was the Super Over and Starc was just trying to execute his yorkers, but there's a psychological advantage. If Yashasvi had faced a few balls, then Starc would have been under some pressure," he added.
Nonetheless, DC chased down the 12-run target with ease and now sit atop the points table with five wins in seven games.

RR's highest scorer of the night Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Rana were overlooked for Parag and Hetmyer as they scored 11 runs in Super Over vs DC. Cricket Sports India news

Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost a high-octane IPL 2025 thriller against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday (Apr 16) after Super Over drama. Their decision to send Shimron Hetmyer and Riyan Parag to face Mitchell Starc, however, didn't go down well with the experts. RR's highest scorer of the night Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Rana were overlooked for Parag and Hetmyer as they scored 11 runs in the six designated balls. While Jaiswal still came to bat after Parag's wicket, Rana was not given a chance at all. Also Read - IPL 2025: 'Wish they checked bats when I was bowling', says SRH head coach Daniel Vettori Speaking on the decision, Rana, who had scored 51 off 28 balls, backed the decision by management at the post-match press conference. "The management takes the call, not one person. The captain is there along with two other senior players and coaches. If Shimron Hetmyer had hit two sixes, then you wouldn't be asking this question. I will give the same answer. I don't have any other answer. Whatever decisions we took was absolutely right. Hetmyer is our finisher, that everyone knows. He has delivered in the past," Rana said. Pujara calls out decision to not send Rana Veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara, however, called out decision to not send Nitish Rana to bat. "I think Nitish should have been there in those three," Pujara said on ESPNcricinfo show. "But I don't know whether he should have started. I would want Jaiswal to start because of the way he bats against Mitchell Starc - his record [against Starc] has been phenomenal across formats [26 runs from 15 balls without a dismissal in T20s and 133 from 203 with three dismissals in Tests]. "I know it was the Super Over and Starc was just trying to execute his yorkers, but there's a psychological advantage. If Yashasvi had faced a few balls, then Starc would have been under some pressure," he added. Nonetheless, DC chased down the 12-run target with ease and now sit atop the points table with five wins in seven games.

IPL 2025 | Puraja calls out RR's decision to not send Rana bat in Super Over vs DC but batter backs management's decision

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) on Wednesday (April 16) witnessed its first Super Over as Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals served a thriller at Delhi&rsquo;s Arun Jaitley Stadium. Defending 189 runs to win for Delhi Capitals, the match ended in a stalemate before the one-over eliminator decided the outcome of the contest. However, it was the calm and composed Mitchell Starc who laid the foundation for the win as skipper Axar Patel was full of praise for him.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Axar in awe of Mitchell Starc<o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;I thought that if Starc could execute, he could bring us back in the game. He bowled the 20th over and the Super Over. So to bowl 12 yorkers in 12 balls, that's why he's an Australian legend,&rdquo; Axar said in the post-match presentation ceremony.<o:p></o:p>
Defending nine runs in the final over of the regulation play, Starc bowled a series of Yorkers before the match ended in a tie. However, Starc had to do it again as he was handed the ball in the Super Over where he gave away only 11 runs. <o:p></o:p>
Later, batting brilliance from Tristan Stubbs and KL Rahul in the Super Over saw Delhi Capitals win the match and return to the top of the table after six games.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-wish-they-checked-bats-when-i-was-bowling-says-srh-head-coach-daniel-vettori-8969722" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025: 'Wish they checked bats when I was bowling', says SRH head coach Daniel Vettori</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals serve thriller</h2>
Starc was later named the Player of the Match for his heroics with the ball, assuring Delhi returned to winning form. The team from the country&rsquo;s capital lost only one match when they were ousted by Mumbai Indians after a series of runouts on Sunday. <o:p></o:p>
The Capitals are next in action on Saturday (April 19) when they travel to Gujarat Titans&rsquo; Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The clash will be significant as both teams are firmly in the Playoff race with eyes on the top two spots as well.

India News | Sports: The IPL 2025 witnessed its first Super Over as Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals served a thriller at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) on Wednesday (April 16) witnessed its first Super Over as Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals served a thriller at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium. Defending 189 runs to win for Delhi Capitals, the match ended in a stalemate before the one-over eliminator decided the outcome of the contest. However, it was the calm and composed Mitchell Starc who laid the foundation for the win as skipper Axar Patel was full of praise for him. Axar in awe of Mitchell Starc “I thought that if Starc could execute, he could bring us back in the game. He bowled the 20th over and the Super Over. So to bowl 12 yorkers in 12 balls, that's why he's an Australian legend,” Axar said in the post-match presentation ceremony. Defending nine runs in the final over of the regulation play, Starc bowled a series of Yorkers before the match ended in a tie. However, Starc had to do it again as he was handed the ball in the Super Over where he gave away only 11 runs. Later, batting brilliance from Tristan Stubbs and KL Rahul in the Super Over saw Delhi Capitals win the match and return to the top of the table after six games. ALSO READ | IPL 2025: 'Wish they checked bats when I was bowling', says SRH head coach Daniel Vettori Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals serve thriller Starc was later named the Player of the Match for his heroics with the ball, assuring Delhi returned to winning form. The team from the country’s capital lost only one match when they were ousted by Mumbai Indians after a series of runouts on Sunday. The Capitals are next in action on Saturday (April 19) when they travel to Gujarat Titans’ Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The clash will be significant as both teams are firmly in the Playoff race with eyes on the top two spots as well.

IPL 2025: Axar Patel heaps praise at 'Super' Mitchell Starc as Delhi Capitals oust Rajasthan Royals in Super Over

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/daniel-vettori">Daniel Vettori</a> had a light-hearted moment with the media ahead of his team&rsquo;s clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede on Sunday (April 17).&nbsp;
Responding to the recent trend of umpires checking the width of bats during the ongoing IPL matches, Vettori said with a smile, &nbsp;&ldquo;I wish they would've checked bats when I was bowling.&rdquo;
While it made everyone laugh, the former spinner quickly shifted focus to the present context - his team&rsquo;s form, approach, and plans moving forward in IPL 2025.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-gabonese-forward-aaron-bupenza-passes-away-aged-28-after-falling-from-11th-floor-8969795">Gabonese forward Aaron Bupenza passes away aged 28 after falling from 11th floor</a>
SRH are coming off a sensational win against Punjab Kings where they chased down a massive 246, which was the second-highest successful run chase in IPL history. It was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/abhishek-sharma">Abhishek Sharma</a> who led the way with a blistering knock, helping Hyderabad grab two important points.
Speaking about SRH&rsquo;s opening pair, Vettori said that while they haven&rsquo;t been consistent, it&rsquo;s not a concern. &nbsp;&ldquo;It&rsquo;s more about bad luck than anything else,&rdquo; he said. &nbsp;He backed them to deliver strong partnerships in upcoming games, especially with high on confidence after the Punjab match.
<h2>Smaran Ravichandran replaces Zampa</h2>
The coach also addressed the team's approach with the bat. He explained that while SRH are known for their aggressive style, it isn&rsquo;t careless. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not reckless. It&rsquo;s measured. They know when to go,&rdquo; Vettori said, calling it 'calculated aggression'.
There was a key update on the injury front as Australian leggie <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/adam-zampa">Adam Zampa</a> has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury. Youngster Smaran Ravichandran has been brought in as his replacement.
With belief in the squad, Vettori remains confident as SRH head into a crucial phase of their campaign. They will be facing Mumbai Indians in their next encounter who are coming on the back of a thrilling win against the Delhi Capitals.

Sports: Recently, umpires have been checking the bats with a gauge through which the willow must pass in order to eradicate the use of oversized bats

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) head coach Daniel Vettori had a light-hearted moment with the media ahead of his team’s clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede on Sunday (April 17). Responding to the recent trend of umpires checking the width of bats during the ongoing IPL matches, Vettori said with a smile, “I wish they would've checked bats when I was bowling.” While it made everyone laugh, the former spinner quickly shifted focus to the present context - his team’s form, approach, and plans moving forward in IPL 2025. Also Read: Gabonese forward Aaron Bupenza passes away aged 28 after falling from 11th floor SRH are coming off a sensational win against Punjab Kings where they chased down a massive 246, which was the second-highest successful run chase in IPL history. It was Abhishek Sharma who led the way with a blistering knock, helping Hyderabad grab two important points. Speaking about SRH’s opening pair, Vettori said that while they haven’t been consistent, it’s not a concern. “It’s more about bad luck than anything else,” he said. He backed them to deliver strong partnerships in upcoming games, especially with high on confidence after the Punjab match. Smaran Ravichandran replaces Zampa The coach also addressed the team's approach with the bat. He explained that while SRH are known for their aggressive style, it isn’t careless. “It’s not reckless. It’s measured. They know when to go,” Vettori said, calling it 'calculated aggression'. There was a key update on the injury front as Australian leggie Adam Zampa has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury. Youngster Smaran Ravichandran has been brought in as his replacement. With belief in the squad, Vettori remains confident as SRH head into a crucial phase of their campaign. They will be facing Mumbai Indians in their next encounter who are coming on the back of a thrilling win against the Delhi Capitals.

IPL 2025: 'Wish they checked bats when I was bowling', says SRH head coach Daniel Vettori

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