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

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

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

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

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday.

Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country.

Fourteen wickets fell on the brownish National Stadium pitch, which had been expected to take spin from day one.&nbsp;

South Africa were well placed at 108-2 soon after lunch, but lost their last eight wickets for just 112 runs -- barely managing to overhaul their lowest total in Pakistan, the 214 made at Faisalabad in 1997.&nbsp;

Spinners Yasir Shah (3-54), debutant Nauman Ali (2-38) and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-49) did the damage.

But then Rabada paid back the hosts with interest, bowling Abid Ali (four) in his third over and then getting debutant Imran Butt (nine) caught at leg-slip off a rising delivery.

He now has 199 wickets from 44 Tests.

Babar Azam, leading Pakistan for the first time in a Test, fell lbw to spinner Keshav Maharaj for seven before night watchman Shaheen was bowled by Anrich Nortje without scoring.&nbsp;

At the close, Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam were unbeaten on five each - with Pakistan trailing by 187 runs with six wickets intact.

Earlier, opener Dean Elgar top-scored for South Africa with 58, while George Linde (35) and Rabada (21 not out) were other notable contributors.

While lamenting his side's poor batting, Elgar said South Africa now had the upper hand.

"I would not have said that after our batting, but then we fought back by taking wickets," he said.

"Knowing that this pitch will get tougher, and knowing that we have good spinners, I am confident that we can get further ahead."

Elgar struck his 16th Test half-century -- laced with nine boundaries -- before he edged Nauman into the hands of Azam at slip.

Elgar and Faf du Plessis (23) had steadied the innings during their 45-run stand for the third wicket after Aiden Markram (13) and Rassie van der Dussen (17) were dismissed in the first session.

Both sides entered the Test with two spinners and three pace bowlers.

The two-match series marks the first tour by South Africa to Pakistan in 14 years, a positive step for the revival of international cricket in the host country.

A deadly attack on Sri Lanka's team in 2009 froze international tours to Pakistan before their gradual resumption in recent years.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday. Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday. Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country. Fourteen wickets fell on the brownish National Stadium pitch, which had been expected to take spin from day one. South Africa were well placed at 108-2 soon after lunch, but lost their last eight wickets for just 112 runs -- barely managing to overhaul their lowest total in Pakistan, the 214 made at Faisalabad in 1997. Spinners Yasir Shah (3-54), debutant Nauman Ali (2-38) and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-49) did the damage. But then Rabada paid back the hosts with interest, bowling Abid Ali (four) in his third over and then getting debutant Imran Butt (nine) caught at leg-slip off a rising delivery. He now has 199 wickets from 44 Tests. Babar Azam, leading Pakistan for the first time in a Test, fell lbw to spinner Keshav Maharaj for seven before night watchman Shaheen was bowled by Anrich Nortje without scoring. At the close, Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam were unbeaten on five each - with Pakistan trailing by 187 runs with six wickets intact. Earlier, opener Dean Elgar top-scored for South Africa with 58, while George Linde (35) and Rabada (21 not out) were other notable contributors. While lamenting his side's poor batting, Elgar said South Africa now had the upper hand. "I would not have said that after our batting, but then we fought back by taking wickets," he said. "Knowing that this pitch will get tougher, and knowing that we have good spinners, I am confident that we can get further ahead." Elgar struck his 16th Test half-century -- laced with nine boundaries -- before he edged Nauman into the hands of Azam at slip. Elgar and Faf du Plessis (23) had steadied the innings during their 45-run stand for the third wicket after Aiden Markram (13) and Rassie van der Dussen (17) were dismissed in the first session. Both sides entered the Test with two spinners and three pace bowlers. The two-match series marks the first tour by South Africa to Pakistan in 14 years, a positive step for the revival of international cricket in the host country. A deadly attack on Sri Lanka's team in 2009 froze international tours to Pakistan before their gradual resumption in recent years.

Pakistan in trouble as Rabada leads South Africa fightback

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock on Sunday said that pacer Kagiso Rabada was not included in the team for the second Test against Sri Lanka as the management wants to keep him fit for the upcoming series against Australia.

Rabada was included in the Proteas squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka, but in the end, he was not selected in the playing XI.

"Not much deliberation on bringing KG back into the squad. We want to keep him fit for the Australia series. We just want to carry forward the momentum and that`s as much as we spoke about," said de Kock during the toss ahead of the second Test.

When asked about Test captaincy, de Kock replied: "I haven`t t thought about captaincy. It`s going alright, hopefully, we can make it two from two. We just want to get another win and start 2021 on a good note. We are well behind in the Test Championship. We don`t mind, either way, it`s not too much of a stress for a toss."Rabada had missed the first Test against Sri Lanka due to a right adductor muscle strain injury.

In the second Test, Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first.

South Africa playing XI: Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock(w/c), Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi.Sri Lanka playing XI: Dimuth Karunaratne(c), Kusal Perera, Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Minod Bhanuka, Niroshan Dickwella(w), Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Vishwa Fernando, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando.

South Africa had defeated Sri Lanka by an innings and 45 runs in the first Test of the two-match series. The Proteas are currently at the sixth position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. (ANI)

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock on Sunday said that pacer Kagiso Rabada was not included in the team for the second Test against Sri Lanka as the management wants to keep him fit for the upcoming series against Australia.

South Africa skipper Quinton de Kock on Sunday said that pacer Kagiso Rabada was not included in the team for the second Test against Sri Lanka as the management wants to keep him fit for the upcoming series against Australia. Rabada was included in the Proteas squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka, but in the end, he was not selected in the playing XI. "Not much deliberation on bringing KG back into the squad. We want to keep him fit for the Australia series. We just want to carry forward the momentum and that`s as much as we spoke about," said de Kock during the toss ahead of the second Test. When asked about Test captaincy, de Kock replied: "I haven`t t thought about captaincy. It`s going alright, hopefully, we can make it two from two. We just want to get another win and start 2021 on a good note. We are well behind in the Test Championship. We don`t mind, either way, it`s not too much of a stress for a toss."Rabada had missed the first Test against Sri Lanka due to a right adductor muscle strain injury. In the second Test, Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first. South Africa playing XI: Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock(w/c), Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi.Sri Lanka playing XI: Dimuth Karunaratne(c), Kusal Perera, Lahiru Thirimanne, Kusal Mendis, Minod Bhanuka, Niroshan Dickwella(w), Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Vishwa Fernando, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando. South Africa had defeated Sri Lanka by an innings and 45 runs in the first Test of the two-match series. The Proteas are currently at the sixth position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. (ANI)

SA vs SL: Rabada misses second Test to stay fit for Australia series

Quinton de Kock has been named South Africa test captain for the 2020-21 season and will lead an inexperienced squad without leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada at the start of the two-match series against Sri Lanka in Pretoria on Dec. 26.

South Africa’s director of cricket, Graeme Smith, had previously said the workload of captaining the test side would be too much for white-ball skipper de Kock, but the selectors have had a change of heart.

"Quinton is happy to continue in the role for the next season, and is comfortable with the balance of the workload and we back him fully as a captain," Convenor of Selectors Victor Mpitsang said in a statement released by Cricket South Africa.

"We are also pleased with the leadership group in the team and are cultivating a strong individual leadership culture at the same time, so that the team produces a sustainable stream of potential captains for the future."

Left-handed batsman Sarel Erwee, seamer Glenton Stuurman and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne have all received first call-ups in what is a new-look squad with a return also for all-rounder Wiaan Mulder after a lengthy absence though injury.

Uncapped batsman Keegan Petersen is also included, and there is a recall for opener Aiden Markram.

Strike bowler Rabada is not fit enough for the first test, but will be considered for the second that begins in Johannesburg on Jan. 3 if he recovers from a hip injury.

Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje and Beuran Hendricks are the senior seam bowlers in the squad.

Sri Lanka stunned South Africa in Feb. 2019 when they became the first Asian team to win a test series in the country. Then came a home series defeat to England followed by plenty of soul-searching within the camp.

South Africa test squad: Quinton de Kock (captain), Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis, Beuran Hendricks, Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Rassie van der Dussen, Sarel Erwee, Anrich Nortje, Glenton Stuurman, Wiaan Mulder, Keegan Petersen, Kyle Verreynne.

Quinton de Kock has been named South Africa test captain for the 2020-21 season and will lead an inexperienced squad without leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada at the start of the two-match series against Sri Lanka in Pretoria on Dec.

Quinton de Kock has been named South Africa test captain for the 2020-21 season and will lead an inexperienced squad without leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada at the start of the two-match series against Sri Lanka in Pretoria on Dec. 26. South Africa’s director of cricket, Graeme Smith, had previously said the workload of captaining the test side would be too much for white-ball skipper de Kock, but the selectors have had a change of heart. "Quinton is happy to continue in the role for the next season, and is comfortable with the balance of the workload and we back him fully as a captain," Convenor of Selectors Victor Mpitsang said in a statement released by Cricket South Africa. "We are also pleased with the leadership group in the team and are cultivating a strong individual leadership culture at the same time, so that the team produces a sustainable stream of potential captains for the future." Left-handed batsman Sarel Erwee, seamer Glenton Stuurman and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne have all received first call-ups in what is a new-look squad with a return also for all-rounder Wiaan Mulder after a lengthy absence though injury. Uncapped batsman Keegan Petersen is also included, and there is a recall for opener Aiden Markram. Strike bowler Rabada is not fit enough for the first test, but will be considered for the second that begins in Johannesburg on Jan. 3 if he recovers from a hip injury. Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje and Beuran Hendricks are the senior seam bowlers in the squad. Sri Lanka stunned South Africa in Feb. 2019 when they became the first Asian team to win a test series in the country. Then came a home series defeat to England followed by plenty of soul-searching within the camp. South Africa test squad: Quinton de Kock (captain), Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis, Beuran Hendricks, Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Rassie van der Dussen, Sarel Erwee, Anrich Nortje, Glenton Stuurman, Wiaan Mulder, Keegan Petersen, Kyle Verreynne.

Quinton de Kock to captain South Africa test team without strike bowler Rabada

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England.

Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised.

"Black Lives Matter is one-hundred percent something I will always stand for and I speak for myself. It was a team decision not to kneel and to look at gender-based violence and devote ourselves to another cause," ESPNCricinfo quoted Rabada as saying.

"However, Black Lives Matter will always be relevant and something I will always believe in and I speak for myself there. But, Mark has stated that the team will not be kneeling and that`s how it`s going to be," he added.

However, Boucher also said that the Proteas players will consider wearing a black armband to show solidarity with the fight against gender-based violence and in memory of the victims of COVID-19, in line with a call made by Ramaphosa to declare November 25-29 national days of mourning.

During the 3TC game in July, players and all support staff including the director of cricket Graeme Smith wore black arm-bands and took a knee before the match to extend support to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement.

Earlier this year, 31 former and current Proteas cricketers had signed a letter showcasing their support towards the Black Lives Matter campaign and pacer Lungi Ngidi.

Following this, Cricket South Africa (CSA), its board of directors and executive committee had reaffirmed their support towards the BLM movement, and its relevance in South Africa.

"We note the claims of discrimination and racism that have been made by current and former players and coaches, and we acknowledge that these are a part of the sport`s past, and sadly, its present. We have to face the reality, as management and custodians of the game, that we need to come up with creative, tangible, and meaningful ways to address this -- even more, than we have done already -- to make sure that they are not part of our future," the CSA had said in an official statement in July.

South Africa and England are slated to lock horns against each other in three T20Is and three ODIs, starting November 27 in Cape Town.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England. Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada on Monday said that it was a team decision to not take the knee in their upcoming white-ball series against England. Last week, Proteas coach Mark Boucher had revealed that the team would not be kneeling to show support towards the Black Lives Matter movement rather they would be extending support to the issues that the country`s president Cyril Ramaphosa has raised. "Black Lives Matter is one-hundred percent something I will always stand for and I speak for myself. It was a team decision not to kneel and to look at gender-based violence and devote ourselves to another cause," ESPNCricinfo quoted Rabada as saying. "However, Black Lives Matter will always be relevant and something I will always believe in and I speak for myself there. But, Mark has stated that the team will not be kneeling and that`s how it`s going to be," he added. However, Boucher also said that the Proteas players will consider wearing a black armband to show solidarity with the fight against gender-based violence and in memory of the victims of COVID-19, in line with a call made by Ramaphosa to declare November 25-29 national days of mourning. During the 3TC game in July, players and all support staff including the director of cricket Graeme Smith wore black arm-bands and took a knee before the match to extend support to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Earlier this year, 31 former and current Proteas cricketers had signed a letter showcasing their support towards the Black Lives Matter campaign and pacer Lungi Ngidi. Following this, Cricket South Africa (CSA), its board of directors and executive committee had reaffirmed their support towards the BLM movement, and its relevance in South Africa. "We note the claims of discrimination and racism that have been made by current and former players and coaches, and we acknowledge that these are a part of the sport`s past, and sadly, its present. We have to face the reality, as management and custodians of the game, that we need to come up with creative, tangible, and meaningful ways to address this -- even more, than we have done already -- to make sure that they are not part of our future," the CSA had said in an official statement in July. South Africa and England are slated to lock horns against each other in three T20Is and three ODIs, starting November 27 in Cape Town.

SA vs Eng: Team decision to not take the knee, says Rabada

Delhi Capital pacer Kagiso Rabada's match-winning figures on Sunday against Sunrisers Hyderabad helped DC to its maiden IPL finals.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-delhi-capitals-defeat-sunrisers-hyderabad-by-17-runs-to-face-mumbai-indians-in-the-final-341752">IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals to face Mumbai Indians in the final</a>

The Proteas reclaimed the 'Purple Cap' after scalping four wickets in the second Qualifier to help Delhi win by 17 runs.

"Today was just my day, I don’t think I bowled particularly well in the last over. But there are times when you bowl well and don’t have the rewards to show for it, so I’ll take it," Rabada said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"But that is secondary, primary is winning the tournament. If we win the tournament and I don’t take any wickets.. I don’t mind that at all. (Executing the last over) It is challenging, we have been there so many times.

"I have been there so many times in my career. Playing such a long tournament fatigue mentally and physically can kick in, but I am glad that we could get over the line today. We have to be as good or better in the final," Rabada further said.

The South African now has 29 wickets in 16 games.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals are set to face Mumbai Indians in the grand finale of IPL 2020. &nbsp;

Delhi Capital pacer Kagiso Rabada's match-winning figures on Sunday against Sunrisers Hyderabad helped DC to its maiden IPL finals. Also read: IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals to face Mumbai Indians in the final The Proteas reclaimed the 'Purple Cap' after scalping four wickets in the second Qualifier to help Delhi win by 17 runs.

Delhi Capital pacer Kagiso Rabada's match-winning figures on Sunday against Sunrisers Hyderabad helped DC to its maiden IPL finals. Also read: IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals to face Mumbai Indians in the final The Proteas reclaimed the 'Purple Cap' after scalping four wickets in the second Qualifier to help Delhi win by 17 runs. "Today was just my day, I don’t think I bowled particularly well in the last over. But there are times when you bowl well and don’t have the rewards to show for it, so I’ll take it," Rabada said at the post-match presentation ceremony. "But that is secondary, primary is winning the tournament. If we win the tournament and I don’t take any wickets.. I don’t mind that at all. (Executing the last over) It is challenging, we have been there so many times. "I have been there so many times in my career. Playing such a long tournament fatigue mentally and physically can kick in, but I am glad that we could get over the line today. We have to be as good or better in the final," Rabada further said. The South African now has 29 wickets in 16 games. Delhi Capitals are set to face Mumbai Indians in the grand finale of IPL 2020.

'That is secondary, primary is winning tournament': Kagiso Rabada on winning Purple Cap

Race to Purple Cap: Top 5 bowlers in Indian Premier League 2020

IPL Trivia: Bowlers who scalped 50 wickets in fewest matches

Delhi Capitals beat Royal Challengers Bangalore by 59 runs in the 19th match of IPL 2020 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore won the toss and chose to bowl first, but the decision backfired after Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan got Delhi off to a very good start. Shaw kept smashing the ball across the fence before Siraj got him out. Dhawan and Iyer followed Shaw into the pavilion. However, the partnership between Marcus Stoinis and Rishabh Pant powered the Delhi to 196 with a loss of four wickets. Marcus Stoinis' 53 off 26 runs was the best individual score for DC tonight.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers were off to a sticky start after they lost their in-form batsman Devdutt Padikkal in the second over itself. Finch was dropped three times by the Delhi Capitals, but his luck ran out in the third over. AB de Villiers was out cheap, the South African scored just 9 runs. Skipper Virat Kohli and Moeen Ali held on to keep RCB in the chase. But Moeen got out in the 11th over to Axar Patel. RCB lost all hope after skipper Virat Kohli departed after scoring 43 runs off 39 balls. RCB crumbled under pressure after Kohli's dismissal.&nbsp;

Rabada scalped four wickets for DC and was adjudged the man of the match.&nbsp;

With this victory, Delhi Capitals go on top of the IPL 2020 points table with four wins and one loss.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals beat Royal Challengers Bangalore by 59 runs in the 19th match of IPL 2020 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday. Royal Challengers Bangalore won the toss and chose to bowl first, but the decision backfired after Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan got Delhi off to a very good start.

Delhi Capitals beat Royal Challengers Bangalore by 59 runs in the 19th match of IPL 2020 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday. Royal Challengers Bangalore won the toss and chose to bowl first, but the decision backfired after Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan got Delhi off to a very good start. Shaw kept smashing the ball across the fence before Siraj got him out. Dhawan and Iyer followed Shaw into the pavilion. However, the partnership between Marcus Stoinis and Rishabh Pant powered the Delhi to 196 with a loss of four wickets. Marcus Stoinis' 53 off 26 runs was the best individual score for DC tonight. Royal Challengers were off to a sticky start after they lost their in-form batsman Devdutt Padikkal in the second over itself. Finch was dropped three times by the Delhi Capitals, but his luck ran out in the third over. AB de Villiers was out cheap, the South African scored just 9 runs. Skipper Virat Kohli and Moeen Ali held on to keep RCB in the chase. But Moeen got out in the 11th over to Axar Patel. RCB lost all hope after skipper Virat Kohli departed after scoring 43 runs off 39 balls. RCB crumbled under pressure after Kohli's dismissal. Rabada scalped four wickets for DC and was adjudged the man of the match. With this victory, Delhi Capitals go on top of the IPL 2020 points table with four wins and one loss.

IPL 2020: Rabada and Stoinis shine as DC beat RCB by 59 runs

Kagiso Rabada believes South Africa must put their off-field problems to one side as they look to revive their World Cup campaign against the West Indies at Southampton on Monday.&nbsp;

A tough opening week in the round-robin group phase has left the Proteas with little margin for error after three straight defeats by England, Bangladesh and India left their semi-final hopes hanging by a thread.&nbsp;

South Africa also saw senior fast bowler Dale Steyn ruled out of the World Cup through injury without bowling a ball.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a row has broken out over whether South Africa's selectors were right to reject star AB de Villiers's offer to come out of international retirement for the World Cup, with some arguing the star batsman had simply left it too late to make himself available.&nbsp;

"There's just been a lot happening off the field and we are just looking to clear that out of our heads," said Rabada, the leader of the Proteas' attack in Steyn's absence.&nbsp;

"But it has been enjoyable," added Rabada, whose fellow quick Lungi Ngidi is an injury doubt for Monday's match.&nbsp;

"It's exciting. This is what you want. It has been enjoyable but it has come with its challenges in terms of our team."&nbsp;&nbsp;

While yet to hit top gear himself at the World Cup, Rabada has been encouraged by the performances so far of fellow fast bowlers such as England's Jofra Archer, Australia's Mitchell Starc and the West Indies' Oshane Thomas.&nbsp;

"They are all phenomenal bowlers. I enjoy watching other bowlers bowl. It's nice to see other people do well, but not against us," said Rabada jokingly.&nbsp;

"We all have our aspirations. We want to achieve certain goals. I don't think it puts any pressure on me (to perform).&nbsp;

"I know exactly what I want to get out of the game. When you admire other sportsmen, it can inspire you."

Kagiso Rabada believes South Africa must put their off-field problems to one side as they look to revive their World Cup campaign against the West Indies at Southampton on Monday.

Kagiso Rabada believes South Africa must put their off-field problems to one side as they look to revive their World Cup campaign against the West Indies at Southampton on Monday. A tough opening week in the round-robin group phase has left the Proteas with little margin for error after three straight defeats by England, Bangladesh and India left their semi-final hopes hanging by a thread. South Africa also saw senior fast bowler Dale Steyn ruled out of the World Cup through injury without bowling a ball. Meanwhile, a row has broken out over whether South Africa's selectors were right to reject star AB de Villiers's offer to come out of international retirement for the World Cup, with some arguing the star batsman had simply left it too late to make himself available. "There's just been a lot happening off the field and we are just looking to clear that out of our heads," said Rabada, the leader of the Proteas' attack in Steyn's absence. "But it has been enjoyable," added Rabada, whose fellow quick Lungi Ngidi is an injury doubt for Monday's match. "It's exciting. This is what you want. It has been enjoyable but it has come with its challenges in terms of our team." While yet to hit top gear himself at the World Cup, Rabada has been encouraged by the performances so far of fellow fast bowlers such as England's Jofra Archer, Australia's Mitchell Starc and the West Indies' Oshane Thomas. "They are all phenomenal bowlers. I enjoy watching other bowlers bowl. It's nice to see other people do well, but not against us," said Rabada jokingly. "We all have our aspirations. We want to achieve certain goals. I don't think it puts any pressure on me (to perform). "I know exactly what I want to get out of the game. When you admire other sportsmen, it can inspire you."

World Cup: Kagiso Rabada urges South Africa to ignore off-field problems

Major takeaways from Virat Kohli's pre-match press conference ahead of World Cup match against South Africa

South Africa captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-outplayed-but-not-downbeat-says-faf-du-plessis-222986">Faf du Plessis</a> lauded England saying the host were better than them in all three facets of the game.

However, he stressed to put the first loss behind and focus on Proteas'&nbsp;next ICC Cricket World Cup game.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-beat-south-africa-by-104-runs-in-cricket-world-cup-opener-222946">South Africa were handed a 104-run defeat</a> at the hands of Eoin Morgan-led England in the curtain raiser of the 50-over tournament at the Oval.

Chasing a challenging total of 312, the Proteas were bundled out on 207 inside 40 overs.

"This is where it's important for us to make sure that you look at the World Cup for what it is. You know, you`re going to play games. You're going to come up against quality opposition. England was better than us in all three facets of the game. They show why they are such a good cricket team, and now we have to look at the league. It's a league competition," ESPNcricinfo quoted du Plessis as saying.

"As disappointed as we are with our performances today, you have to make sure you learn from it quickly and put every single dart to bed because there is the next game and you have to make sure you play good cricket again," he added.

Having known that England have a long batting line-up, South Africa restricted the host for 311/8.

The Proteas conceded just 76 runs in the last 10 overs, which made it seem the du Plessis-led side had won half battle.

One of their go-to bowlers, Lungi Ngidi picked up three wickets, including ending the innings of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ben-stokes-takes-mind-boggling-catch-to-dismiss-andile-phehlukwayo-222966">Ben Stokes</a> for 89.

Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir and Kagiso Rabada returned with two wickets each.

"Yeah, I thought after the first half, that we did a good job with the ball. You know, as I said before this game, England more so than any other team in this World Cup, bat longer than anyone else. So if you can stop them with the long batting line-up you have, then you`re doing a great job with the ball," the South Africa captain said.

"For them to score as little runs as they did the last 15 overs and us picking up as many wickets as we did, was a great achievement by our bowling units. But yeah, as I said, 310 is still a big score, so what you need to do is you need to start well, and we didn`t have that luxury," he noted.

The chase looked achievable until Hashim Amla retired hurt after getting hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer.

The setback disrupted the South Africa batting and a wobble took place too before Quinton de Kock held his nerves to rebuild the side.

In the 23rd over, Liam Plunkett dismissed de Kock which broke the backbone of South Africa.

Amla returned to bat but it was too late as his side was at 180/7 and eventually South Africa folded.

"When you are chasing a big score like 310 what you need is a good start. You need to make sure that you settle the bats in the dressing room with a good partnership, whether it's zero down or one down, but a good start is really important and obviously with him (Amla) coming off, and then a few overs later, Aiden (Markram) got out and then one or two overs later, I got out. When you go three-down on a big score like that, you're making it really tough for our batting unit to perform. And then the score just looks big. It looks too far," du Plessis said.

Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fe0acf3-f1dc-43de-b0de-8f13de51390b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_12.jpg" />

South Africa will take on Bangladesh in their second match on June 2 at the Oval.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis lauded England saying the host were better than them in all three facets of the game. However, he stressed to put the first loss behind and focus on Proteas' next ICC Cricket World Cup game.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis lauded England saying the host were better than them in all three facets of the game. However, he stressed to put the first loss behind and focus on Proteas' next ICC Cricket World Cup game. South Africa were handed a 104-run defeat at the hands of Eoin Morgan-led England in the curtain raiser of the 50-over tournament at the Oval. Chasing a challenging total of 312, the Proteas were bundled out on 207 inside 40 overs. "This is where it's important for us to make sure that you look at the World Cup for what it is. You know, you`re going to play games. You're going to come up against quality opposition. England was better than us in all three facets of the game. They show why they are such a good cricket team, and now we have to look at the league. It's a league competition," ESPNcricinfo quoted du Plessis as saying. "As disappointed as we are with our performances today, you have to make sure you learn from it quickly and put every single dart to bed because there is the next game and you have to make sure you play good cricket again," he added. Having known that England have a long batting line-up, South Africa restricted the host for 311/8. The Proteas conceded just 76 runs in the last 10 overs, which made it seem the du Plessis-led side had won half battle. One of their go-to bowlers, Lungi Ngidi picked up three wickets, including ending the innings of Ben Stokes for 89. Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir and Kagiso Rabada returned with two wickets each. "Yeah, I thought after the first half, that we did a good job with the ball. You know, as I said before this game, England more so than any other team in this World Cup, bat longer than anyone else. So if you can stop them with the long batting line-up you have, then you`re doing a great job with the ball," the South Africa captain said. "For them to score as little runs as they did the last 15 overs and us picking up as many wickets as we did, was a great achievement by our bowling units. But yeah, as I said, 310 is still a big score, so what you need to do is you need to start well, and we didn`t have that luxury," he noted. The chase looked achievable until Hashim Amla retired hurt after getting hit by a Jofra Archer bouncer. The setback disrupted the South Africa batting and a wobble took place too before Quinton de Kock held his nerves to rebuild the side. In the 23rd over, Liam Plunkett dismissed de Kock which broke the backbone of South Africa. Amla returned to bat but it was too late as his side was at 180/7 and eventually South Africa folded. "When you are chasing a big score like 310 what you need is a good start. You need to make sure that you settle the bats in the dressing room with a good partnership, whether it's zero down or one down, but a good start is really important and obviously with him (Amla) coming off, and then a few overs later, Aiden (Markram) got out and then one or two overs later, I got out. When you go three-down on a big score like that, you're making it really tough for our batting unit to perform. And then the score just looks big. It looks too far," du Plessis said. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: South Africa will take on Bangladesh in their second match on June 2 at the Oval.

England were better than us in all facets of the game, says Faf du Plessis after defeat in World Cup 2019 opener

South African pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Kagiso+Rabada">Kagiso Rabada</a> is likely to be fit for the upcoming Cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30 in England and Wales.&nbsp;

Rabada, who played for Delhi team in Indian Premier League 2019, suffered a back injury and was called back by Cricket South Africa (CSA).&nbsp;

Despite his early departure from the IPL, Rabada ended the tournament as the second <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-awards-from-most-runs-to-best-catch-heres-a-list-all-the-winners-218212">highest wicket-taker</a>&nbsp;behind Chennai's Imran Tahir. &nbsp;

South Africa boar's doctor Mohammed Moosajee over the weekend said CSA's medical team was being "extra cautious" in managing Rabada's workload because of his history with back injuries, ESPNcricinfo reported.&nbsp;

Earlier, Moosajee, in a statement issued by CSA, had said, "With KG (Rabada), we are extra cautious because of two reasons. He had a back issue that kept him out of the game for a protracted amount of time."&nbsp;

"Secondly, there's his importance in the squad, so we're managing his rehab and his return to play very carefully. The anticipated recovery period for KG's injury is two to three weeks and we are hopeful he'll make a full recovery to be part of the World Cup squad," he added.&nbsp;

South Africa will start their World Cup campaign on the opening day of the tournament against the hosts England but the team is already affected by injuries to Dale Steyn and Lungi Nigidi.&nbsp;

Steyn, who played for the Bangalore, was forced to withdraw from the IPL after sustaining a shoulder injury after two matches.&nbsp;

While Ngidi, who was signed by Chennai, was ruled out of the tournament after picking up a side strain during the ODI series against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada is likely to be fit for the upcoming Cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30 in England and Wales. Rabada, who played for Delhi team in Indian Premier League 2019, suffered a back injury and was called back by Cricket South Africa (CSA).

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada is likely to be fit for the upcoming Cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off from May 30 in England and Wales. Rabada, who played for Delhi team in Indian Premier League 2019, suffered a back injury and was called back by Cricket South Africa (CSA). Despite his early departure from the IPL, Rabada ended the tournament as the second highest wicket-taker behind Chennai's Imran Tahir. South Africa boar's doctor Mohammed Moosajee over the weekend said CSA's medical team was being "extra cautious" in managing Rabada's workload because of his history with back injuries, ESPNcricinfo reported. Earlier, Moosajee, in a statement issued by CSA, had said, "With KG (Rabada), we are extra cautious because of two reasons. He had a back issue that kept him out of the game for a protracted amount of time." "Secondly, there's his importance in the squad, so we're managing his rehab and his return to play very carefully. The anticipated recovery period for KG's injury is two to three weeks and we are hopeful he'll make a full recovery to be part of the World Cup squad," he added. South Africa will start their World Cup campaign on the opening day of the tournament against the hosts England but the team is already affected by injuries to Dale Steyn and Lungi Nigidi. Steyn, who played for the Bangalore, was forced to withdraw from the IPL after sustaining a shoulder injury after two matches. While Ngidi, who was signed by Chennai, was ruled out of the tournament after picking up a side strain during the ODI series against Sri Lanka.

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada likely to be fit ahead of World Cup

South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will return home from the Indian Premier League (IPL) to avoid aggravating a back problem ahead of the cricket World Cup, the Delhi said on Friday.

The 23-year-old has been in fine form this season, claiming 25 wickets from 12 matches in the IPL, but sat out <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ms-dhoni-credits-tennis-ball-cricket-for-quick-hands-behind-the-stumps-215322/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjl2sKz8P7hAhWJM48KHTqYAVYQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0kM95pDNs4lf3rzVcpdFPI">Wednesday's game against Chennai.</a>

Delhi said Rabada had been advised to return by Cricket South Africa as a precautionary measure.

"It's hard for me to leave the Delhi at this stage of the tournament. But with the World Cup just a month away, a collective decision has been made for me in this regard," Rabada said in a statement.

Third-placed Delhi have qualified for the IPL playoffs and play Rajasthan in their last league game on Saturday.

"It's been a tremendous season for me with Delhi, both on and off the field, and I truly believe that our team can win the trophy," Rabada added.

Rabada's fellow paceman Dale Steyn was also ruled out of the IPL last month after a flare-up of an old shoulder injury, putting his World Cup prospects in doubt.

South Africa open their World Cup campaign against England at The Oval on May 30.

South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will return home from the Indian Premier League (IPL) to avoid aggravating a back problem ahead of the cricket World Cup, the Delhi said on Friday.

South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will return home from the Indian Premier League (IPL) to avoid aggravating a back problem ahead of the cricket World Cup, the Delhi said on Friday. The 23-year-old has been in fine form this season, claiming 25 wickets from 12 matches in the IPL, but sat out Wednesday's game against Chennai. Delhi said Rabada had been advised to return by Cricket South Africa as a precautionary measure. "It's hard for me to leave the Delhi at this stage of the tournament. But with the World Cup just a month away, a collective decision has been made for me in this regard," Rabada said in a statement. Third-placed Delhi have qualified for the IPL playoffs and play Rajasthan in their last league game on Saturday. "It's been a tremendous season for me with Delhi, both on and off the field, and I truly believe that our team can win the trophy," Rabada added. Rabada's fellow paceman Dale Steyn was also ruled out of the IPL last month after a flare-up of an old shoulder injury, putting his World Cup prospects in doubt. South Africa open their World Cup campaign against England at The Oval on May 30.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada heads home from IPL with back niggle

Delhi made their way to the playoffs for the first time since 2012 as they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-ipl-2019-match-46-delhi-vs-bangalore-at-feroz-shah-kotla-214092">defeated Bangalore by 16 runs</a> in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) on Sunday.&nbsp;

Chasing a total of 188 runs, Bangalore's openers, Parthiv Patel and Virat Kohli, gave their side a brilliant start. Both formed a 63-run partnership before Kagiso Rabada got hold of Patel (39).&nbsp;

AB de Villiers then joined Skipper Kolhi. However, their partnership did not last long as Kohli became a victim of Axar Patel.&nbsp;

Shivam Dube then formed a 35-run partnership with De Villiers before the latter got out on 17 runs. Heinrich Klaasen then joined Dube. However, Amit Mishra sent both the batsmen back to the pavilion in the 13th over.&nbsp;

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> have now claimed the top spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> Points Table. Will the <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> join <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DC</a> for the playoffs tonight? <a href="https://t.co/o6yH32XHCI">pic.twitter.com/o6yH32XHCI</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1122503830099251201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The rest of the batsmen struggled a bit to form a good partnership as they kept on losing wickets. However, Marcus Stoinis and Gurkeerat Singh formed a 49-run partnership which helped their side get closer to the target.&nbsp;

Singh scored 27 runs before he gave away his wicket which brought Washington Sundar to bat but Sundar too was sent back in the very next over.&nbsp;

Stoinis played a scintillating knock of 32 runs off 24 deliveries but it was not enough to take his side over the line as they lost the match by 16 runs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Delhi got off to a steady start as both the openers, Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan, struck regular boundaries. However, Shaw gave away his wicket in the fourth over after scoring 18 runs.&nbsp;

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That's that from Delhi as the <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> win by 16 runs and are through to the Playoffs 😎💪 <a href="https://t.co/KtxeYqEwUY">pic.twitter.com/KtxeYqEwUY</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1122501431993364480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dhawan was then accompanied by the skipper Shreyas Iyer and both stitched an impeccable partnership of 68 runs.&nbsp;

Dhawan scored his fifth half-century and with this Dhawan surpassed Sunrisers Hyderabad`s batsman Jonny Bairstow run tally of 445 runs to become the second highest run-getter in this season of IPL with 451 runs.&nbsp;

Iyer too scored a half-century. However, Dhawan (50) and Iyer (52) both were sent back to the pavilion in quick succession.&nbsp;

Shortly after that, Rishabh Pant and Colin Ingram too lost their wickets.&nbsp;

Sherfane Rutherford and Axar Patel then came out to bat and both formed a crucial partnership of 46 runs which helped their side post a target of 188 for the visitors.&nbsp;

Delhi will now visit Chennai to compete with Chennai on May 1 while Bangalore will host Rajasthan on April 30.&nbsp;

Delhi made their way to the playoffs for the first time since 2012 as they defeated Bangalore by 16 runs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) on Sunday. Chasing a total of 188 runs, Bangalore's openers, Parthiv Patel and Virat Kohli, gave their side a brilliant start.

Delhi made their way to the playoffs for the first time since 2012 as they defeated Bangalore by 16 runs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) on Sunday. Chasing a total of 188 runs, Bangalore's openers, Parthiv Patel and Virat Kohli, gave their side a brilliant start. Both formed a 63-run partnership before Kagiso Rabada got hold of Patel (39). AB de Villiers then joined Skipper Kolhi. However, their partnership did not last long as Kohli became a victim of Axar Patel. Shivam Dube then formed a 35-run partnership with De Villiers before the latter got out on 17 runs. Heinrich Klaasen then joined Dube. However, Amit Mishra sent both the batsmen back to the pavilion in the 13th over. The @DelhiCapitals have now claimed the top spot in the #VIVOIPL Points Table. Will the @mipaltan join #CSK and #DC for the playoffs tonight? pic.twitter.com/o6yH32XHCI — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 28, 2019 × The rest of the batsmen struggled a bit to form a good partnership as they kept on losing wickets. However, Marcus Stoinis and Gurkeerat Singh formed a 49-run partnership which helped their side get closer to the target. Singh scored 27 runs before he gave away his wicket which brought Washington Sundar to bat but Sundar too was sent back in the very next over. Stoinis played a scintillating knock of 32 runs off 24 deliveries but it was not enough to take his side over the line as they lost the match by 16 runs. Earlier, Delhi got off to a steady start as both the openers, Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan, struck regular boundaries. However, Shaw gave away his wicket in the fourth over after scoring 18 runs. That's that from Delhi as the @DelhiCapitals win by 16 runs and are through to the Playoffs 😎💪 pic.twitter.com/KtxeYqEwUY — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 28, 2019 × Dhawan was then accompanied by the skipper Shreyas Iyer and both stitched an impeccable partnership of 68 runs. Dhawan scored his fifth half-century and with this Dhawan surpassed Sunrisers Hyderabad`s batsman Jonny Bairstow run tally of 445 runs to become the second highest run-getter in this season of IPL with 451 runs. Iyer too scored a half-century. However, Dhawan (50) and Iyer (52) both were sent back to the pavilion in quick succession. Shortly after that, Rishabh Pant and Colin Ingram too lost their wickets. Sherfane Rutherford and Axar Patel then came out to bat and both formed a crucial partnership of 46 runs which helped their side post a target of 188 for the visitors. Delhi will now visit Chennai to compete with Chennai on May 1 while Bangalore will host Rajasthan on April 30.

IPL 2019: Delhi storm into playoffs after defeating Bangalore by 16 runs

Fast bowler <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-kagiso-rabada-leads-delhi-to-super-over-win-after-prithvis-99-206851&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjJ89P9v97hAhUk6nMBHTLtD_gQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0oHu7VzAlUdrUgKXvssjrl">Kagiso Rabada</a> is proving to be a trump card for Delhi&nbsp;in Indian Premier League (IPL) with his ability to handle pressure in crunch overs.&nbsp;

The 23-year-old is the leading wicket-taker, having claimed 19 wickets in nine matches.&nbsp;

"I've just been working on my skills in the nets, trying to improve in particular areas and also working on the things that I've worked on in the past. I try to find a combination of sticking to what works for me, and then reading the game, learning about the game, and learning what can make me a better cricketer," cricket.com.au quoted Rabada, as saying.&nbsp;

"It's a game of simplicity, really. I just practice my good lengths, good lines, and then look to adapt on the day to what's going to be needed, whether it be variations or whatever ball is required at any particular batsman", he said.&nbsp;

Proteas bowler produced a series of yorkers in Super Over to stop Kolkata all-rounder Andre Russell early in the season.&nbsp;

"I thought, big boundary, hmm, what do we bowl here? We could bowl bouncers. We could bowl slower balls. But it's risky. I wasn`t really feeling them on the day. On another day, I could have felt them. But I felt the Yorker," he said.&nbsp;

"IPL is a high-pressure environment, where you'll think of something in the moment and really need to execute. It's about dealing with that pressure. There are always moments in the game where there`s pressure, and we play the game to win, so you have to be able to (thrive on the pressure)," said Rabada, who has helped <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ricky-ponting-hopes-pants-india-snub-will-benefit-delhi-in-ipl-211463&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi05f3cv97hAhVr6XMBHXq1A0gQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QHTFJHJHvwYuEbqn1jy3X">Delhi </a>climb to the third position in the points table.&nbsp;

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is proving to be a trump card for Delhi in Indian Premier League (IPL) with his ability to handle pressure in crunch overs. The 23-year-old is the leading wicket-taker, having claimed 19 wickets in nine matches.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is proving to be a trump card for Delhi in Indian Premier League (IPL) with his ability to handle pressure in crunch overs. The 23-year-old is the leading wicket-taker, having claimed 19 wickets in nine matches. "I've just been working on my skills in the nets, trying to improve in particular areas and also working on the things that I've worked on in the past. I try to find a combination of sticking to what works for me, and then reading the game, learning about the game, and learning what can make me a better cricketer," cricket.com.au quoted Rabada, as saying. "It's a game of simplicity, really. I just practice my good lengths, good lines, and then look to adapt on the day to what's going to be needed, whether it be variations or whatever ball is required at any particular batsman", he said. Proteas bowler produced a series of yorkers in Super Over to stop Kolkata all-rounder Andre Russell early in the season. "I thought, big boundary, hmm, what do we bowl here? We could bowl bouncers. We could bowl slower balls. But it's risky. I wasn`t really feeling them on the day. On another day, I could have felt them. But I felt the Yorker," he said. "IPL is a high-pressure environment, where you'll think of something in the moment and really need to execute. It's about dealing with that pressure. There are always moments in the game where there`s pressure, and we play the game to win, so you have to be able to (thrive on the pressure)," said Rabada, who has helped Delhi climb to the third position in the points table.

Death over's specialist Kagiso Rabada, the trump card for Delhi

Kagiso Rabada made a name for himself when he delivered consecutive six yorkers in the <a href="IPL 2019: Kagiso Rabada leads Delhi to Super Over win after Prithvi's 99">'Super Over' to restrict Kolkata's run-machine Andre Russell </a>and successfully defend mere 10 runs to hand Delhi a victory in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL)</a>.&nbsp;

However, Rabada, who is the leading wicket-taker in this season so far, feels the team hasn't used him as a proper upfront bowler and rely more on his death bowling.&nbsp;

When asked what strategy helped him scalp 11 wickets in six games, Rabada said, "Basically, in death, I feel like batsmen come at you more which gives you more chances of getting a wicket. However, in saying that, I also haven't been used really as an upfront bowler. Either I come first change or I come second change. And yes, batsmen are more conservatives."

Rabada made his debut in IPL in 2017 and had clinched just six wickets in the six games, while in this season he is the Purple Cap holder as of now.

Sharing how relieving it is for him as a bowler, Rabada said it feels good to contribute towards the team's success. &nbsp;

"Yes, as well as excited to come back. In my first season, I did just okay, or a bit more than okay I guess. I feel glad that I have contributed towards the team's success and I am working towards my personal growth and I am glad that it is heading the right direction."

Rabada's wicket tally isn't limited to dismissing just the lower batting order but it includes batsmen who are known for their destructive batting in the T20 format.&nbsp;

So far, he has dismissed the likes of like Kolkata's hit machine Andre Russell, Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Hyderabad's in-form batsman David Warner.

When asked whose dismissal did he enjoy the most and will call his favourite, Rabada was quick to take the name of his South African teammate and Bangalore's AB de Villiers.&nbsp;

"I guess, I always play with AB, so playing against him on a big stage and I got him out. He is the most talented batsmen I have ever bowled to.&nbsp;And when you are standing at the top of your mark, you know, you really need to be on your A game. So I think I enjoyed his wicket because growing up I always used to admire him and then playing alongside him was always great and now playing against him. You really have to test yourself and I was looking forward to it."

The South African cricketer added a pun to his statement saying De Villiers will surely gonna be coming after him.

Delhi are currently placed at the&nbsp;sixth position with three wins and three reverses. They need to win their next few games to reach the playoffs without much hassle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked what strategies have they planned for the upcoming encounters, Rabada said he believes in taking it game by game.

"I think taking it game by game and taking it one ball at a time is the best way to look at it, is the best way to approach it. And remember to have fun. And we need to learn and learn quickly how to go about the game in certain moments where we have felt we lacked because that is where we are going to put pressure on other teams and that's how we are going to win this tournament."

The side has been inconsistent with their performance. Though few batsmen like Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant and skipper Shreyas Iyer have performed in individual games, the side lacked collective performance.&nbsp;

Kagiso Rabada made a name for himself when he delivered consecutive six yorkers in the 'Super Over' to restrict Kolkata's run-machine Andre Russell and successfully defend mere 10 runs to hand Delhi a victory in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Kagiso Rabada made a name for himself when he delivered consecutive six yorkers in the 'Super Over' to restrict Kolkata's run-machine Andre Russell and successfully defend mere 10 runs to hand Delhi a victory in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, Rabada, who is the leading wicket-taker in this season so far, feels the team hasn't used him as a proper upfront bowler and rely more on his death bowling. When asked what strategy helped him scalp 11 wickets in six games, Rabada said, "Basically, in death, I feel like batsmen come at you more which gives you more chances of getting a wicket. However, in saying that, I also haven't been used really as an upfront bowler. Either I come first change or I come second change. And yes, batsmen are more conservatives." Rabada made his debut in IPL in 2017 and had clinched just six wickets in the six games, while in this season he is the Purple Cap holder as of now. Sharing how relieving it is for him as a bowler, Rabada said it feels good to contribute towards the team's success. "Yes, as well as excited to come back. In my first season, I did just okay, or a bit more than okay I guess. I feel glad that I have contributed towards the team's success and I am working towards my personal growth and I am glad that it is heading the right direction." Rabada's wicket tally isn't limited to dismissing just the lower batting order but it includes batsmen who are known for their destructive batting in the T20 format. So far, he has dismissed the likes of like Kolkata's hit machine Andre Russell, Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Hyderabad's in-form batsman David Warner. When asked whose dismissal did he enjoy the most and will call his favourite, Rabada was quick to take the name of his South African teammate and Bangalore's AB de Villiers. "I guess, I always play with AB, so playing against him on a big stage and I got him out. He is the most talented batsmen I have ever bowled to. And when you are standing at the top of your mark, you know, you really need to be on your A game. So I think I enjoyed his wicket because growing up I always used to admire him and then playing alongside him was always great and now playing against him. You really have to test yourself and I was looking forward to it." The South African cricketer added a pun to his statement saying De Villiers will surely gonna be coming after him. Delhi are currently placed at the sixth position with three wins and three reverses. They need to win their next few games to reach the playoffs without much hassle. When asked what strategies have they planned for the upcoming encounters, Rabada said he believes in taking it game by game. "I think taking it game by game and taking it one ball at a time is the best way to look at it, is the best way to approach it. And remember to have fun. And we need to learn and learn quickly how to go about the game in certain moments where we have felt we lacked because that is where we are going to put pressure on other teams and that's how we are going to win this tournament." The side has been inconsistent with their performance. Though few batsmen like Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant and skipper Shreyas Iyer have performed in individual games, the side lacked collective performance.

Kagiso Rabada to WION: Delhi haven't 'used me' as an upfront bowler

WION speaks exclusively to Delhi Capitals pacer, South African Kagiso Rabada, who is currently the highest wicket-taker in IPL 2019. Rabada assesses his team's campaign at the halfway stage of the tournament, talks about his lethal yorkers and taming the in-form Andre Russell, and why dismissing AB de Villiers holds a special place in his heart.

IPL 2019: PURPLE CAP HOLDER RABADA ON WION

Andre Russell's big-hitting prowess will be pitted against Kagiso Rabada's inch-perfect yorkers for the second time when Kolkata face Delhi in a return-leg fixture of the IPL on Friday.

IPL 2019: Who will win Russell-Rabada battle as Delhi take on Kolkata in match 26

6 reasons why Virat Kohli's Bangalore lost their sixth straight game

IPL 2019: What to expect when Ashwin-led Punjab take on Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi at IS Bindra Stadium?

It turned out to be a glorious 2018 for India captain Virat Kohli and South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada as both maintained their respective pole positions in the year-end ICC Test Player Rankings.&nbsp;

Kohli dropped three points despite a first innings score of 82 in the third Test against Australia in Melbourne, but still enjoys a 34-point lead over nearest rival Kane Williamson of New Zealand.&nbsp;

Kohli, who attained a career-high 937 points during the year, which is the highest ever by an India batsman, scored 1322 runs in all. He overtook Steven Smith in August and has now held the top position for 135 days.

Rabada, who split the top ranking with England's seasoned fast bowler James Anderson during the year, is just six points ahead of his adversary.

Rabada, who became the youngest to take top position among bowlers during the year and held the spot for 178 days during the year, grabbed six wickets in the opening match at Centurion that South Africa won by six wickets to finish with 52 wickets in 10 Tests in 2018.

Kohli's compatriot Cheteshwar Pujara has also maintained his fourth position after a first-innings century in Melbourne, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has gained 10 slots to reach a career-best 38th position.

Debutant opener Mayank Agarwal has also entered the batsmen's list at an impressive 67th place after scores of 76 and 42 helped his side win by 137 runs for a 2-1 lead in the four-match series.

Jasprit Bumrah has moved from 28th to 12th after his match haul of nine for 86, the best-ever by an India seam bowler in Australia. He is now the highest-ranked India fast bowler in the format with Mohammed Shami is next in 23rd position.

For Australia, Pat Cummins has been the pick, gaining five slots to reach a career-best third position after finishing with nine wickets in the match. He has also gained 13 slots to reach 91st place among batsmen with some useful runs down the order.&nbsp;

Travis Head (up seven places to 56th) has also benefitted in the latest rankings update.&nbsp;

New Zealand fast bowlers have a lot to cheer about following their record 423-run win over Sri Lanka in Christchurch.&nbsp;

Trent Boult's nine wickets in the match have helped him gain seven slots to reach the seventh position while Tim Southee (up two places to ninth) and Neil Wagner (up one place to 15th) have also moved up.

Century-makers at Christchurch, Henry Nicholls (up two places to seventh) and Tom Latham (up eight places to 14th), and Jeet Raval (up two places to 35th) have also gained in the latest rankings update.

Nicholls scored an unbeaten 162 to move up to the seventh place.&nbsp;

For South Africa, former captain Hashim Amla (up three places to 11th place) and Temba Bavuma (up four places to 31st) have gained among batsmen while fast bowler Duanne Olivier has gained 17 places to reach 36th position after his player of the match effort of 11 wickets.

Pakistan's Babar Azam has gained nine slots to reach 27th position after innings of 71 and six while left-arm fast bowlers Mohammad Amir (up two places to 34th) and Shaheen Afridi (up 38 places to 73rd) have advanced after taking four and five wickets in Centurion.

Meanwhile, New Zealand have leapfrogged South Africa to take third place in the ICC Test Team Rankings after starting the series against Sri Lanka with a chance of going up to the second position with a 2-0 win.

It turned out to be a glorious 2018 for India captain Virat Kohli and South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada as both maintained their respective pole positions in the year-end ICC Test Player Rankings.

It turned out to be a glorious 2018 for India captain Virat Kohli and South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada as both maintained their respective pole positions in the year-end ICC Test Player Rankings. Kohli dropped three points despite a first innings score of 82 in the third Test against Australia in Melbourne, but still enjoys a 34-point lead over nearest rival Kane Williamson of New Zealand. Kohli, who attained a career-high 937 points during the year, which is the highest ever by an India batsman, scored 1322 runs in all. He overtook Steven Smith in August and has now held the top position for 135 days. Rabada, who split the top ranking with England's seasoned fast bowler James Anderson during the year, is just six points ahead of his adversary. Rabada, who became the youngest to take top position among bowlers during the year and held the spot for 178 days during the year, grabbed six wickets in the opening match at Centurion that South Africa won by six wickets to finish with 52 wickets in 10 Tests in 2018. Kohli's compatriot Cheteshwar Pujara has also maintained his fourth position after a first-innings century in Melbourne, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has gained 10 slots to reach a career-best 38th position. Debutant opener Mayank Agarwal has also entered the batsmen's list at an impressive 67th place after scores of 76 and 42 helped his side win by 137 runs for a 2-1 lead in the four-match series. Jasprit Bumrah has moved from 28th to 12th after his match haul of nine for 86, the best-ever by an India seam bowler in Australia. He is now the highest-ranked India fast bowler in the format with Mohammed Shami is next in 23rd position. For Australia, Pat Cummins has been the pick, gaining five slots to reach a career-best third position after finishing with nine wickets in the match. He has also gained 13 slots to reach 91st place among batsmen with some useful runs down the order. Travis Head (up seven places to 56th) has also benefitted in the latest rankings update. New Zealand fast bowlers have a lot to cheer about following their record 423-run win over Sri Lanka in Christchurch. Trent Boult's nine wickets in the match have helped him gain seven slots to reach the seventh position while Tim Southee (up two places to ninth) and Neil Wagner (up one place to 15th) have also moved up. Century-makers at Christchurch, Henry Nicholls (up two places to seventh) and Tom Latham (up eight places to 14th), and Jeet Raval (up two places to 35th) have also gained in the latest rankings update. Nicholls scored an unbeaten 162 to move up to the seventh place. For South Africa, former captain Hashim Amla (up three places to 11th place) and Temba Bavuma (up four places to 31st) have gained among batsmen while fast bowler Duanne Olivier has gained 17 places to reach 36th position after his player of the match effort of 11 wickets. Pakistan's Babar Azam has gained nine slots to reach 27th position after innings of 71 and six while left-arm fast bowlers Mohammad Amir (up two places to 34th) and Shaheen Afridi (up 38 places to 73rd) have advanced after taking four and five wickets in Centurion. Meanwhile, New Zealand have leapfrogged South Africa to take third place in the ICC Test Team Rankings after starting the series against Sri Lanka with a chance of going up to the second position with a 2-0 win.

ICC Test Player Rankings: Virat Kohli, Kagiso Rabada end 2018 on top spots

Australian captain Steve Smith has criticised the decision to overturn a ban on South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada for making physical contact with him.

Smith said ahead of Wednesday&#39;s pre-Test press conference that a &quot;line in the sand&quot; had been drawn regarding physical contact and said he was surprised he had not been asked his opinion during the appeal hearing.

Having been banned for the remaining two Tests in the series for brushing against Smith&#39;s shoulder after taking his wicket in the second Test, Rabada was cleared to play in the third Test starting Thursday after a successful appeal.

Australia spin bowler Nathan Lyon had said the team had &quot;no dramas&quot; with the decision, but Smith has told cricket.com.au website: &quot;I certainly think he (Rabada) bumped me a little bit harder than it actually looked on the footage.&quot;

Although Smith claimed &quot;it didn&rsquo;t bother me too much,&quot; he went on to say, &quot;they&rsquo;ve obviously decided what&rsquo;s deliberate contact and what&rsquo;s not and apparently it wasn&rsquo;t.

&quot;The ICC have set the standard, haven&#39;t they? There was clearly contact out in the middle.

&quot;I certainly won&#39;t be telling my bowlers to go out there and after you take a wicket go and get in their space. I don&#39;t think that is on and part of the game. But the standard has been set.&quot;

Rabada was initially given three demerit points for the incident in Port Elizabeth by match referee Jeff Crowe, triggering an automatic two-Test ban.

But judicial commissioner Michael Heron said he was not completely satisfied that the contact was deliberate and reduced the charge to acting against the spirit of the game, imposing a one-point penalty, which took Rabada one point below the threshold for the ban.

He will, therefore, line up for South Africa as they seek the edge in a series tied at one match apiece.

Smith said it was &quot;interesting&quot; he had not been asked for his version of events and said Crowe had reason to be annoyed about his judgement being questioned.

&quot;The way he handled both sides throughout the two Test matches, I thought he did a terrific job. I&#39;d be feeling a bit annoyed if I was him, to be perfectly honest.&quot;

Smith said he and senior Australia players Lyon and David Warner had spoken to incoming match referee Andy Pycroft, who will handle the remaining two Tests of what has been an often bad-tempered series.

He said the referee would also speak to South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis &quot;just to ensure that the series is continued to play in pretty good spirit.&quot;

Australian skipper Steve Smith said that he was surprised because he had not been asked his opinion during the appeal hearing

Australian captain Steve Smith has criticised the decision to overturn a ban on South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada for making physical contact with him. Smith said ahead of Wednesday's pre-Test press conference that a "line in the sand" had been drawn regarding physical contact and said he was surprised he had not been asked his opinion during the appeal hearing. Having been banned for the remaining two Tests in the series for brushing against Smith's shoulder after taking his wicket in the second Test, Rabada was cleared to play in the third Test starting Thursday after a successful appeal. Australia spin bowler Nathan Lyon had said the team had "no dramas" with the decision, but Smith has told cricket.com.au website: "I certainly think he (Rabada) bumped me a little bit harder than it actually looked on the footage." Although Smith claimed "it didn’t bother me too much," he went on to say, "they’ve obviously decided what’s deliberate contact and what’s not and apparently it wasn’t. "The ICC have set the standard, haven't they? There was clearly contact out in the middle. "I certainly won't be telling my bowlers to go out there and after you take a wicket go and get in their space. I don't think that is on and part of the game. But the standard has been set." Rabada was initially given three demerit points for the incident in Port Elizabeth by match referee Jeff Crowe, triggering an automatic two-Test ban. But judicial commissioner Michael Heron said he was not completely satisfied that the contact was deliberate and reduced the charge to acting against the spirit of the game, imposing a one-point penalty, which took Rabada one point below the threshold for the ban. He will, therefore, line up for South Africa as they seek the edge in a series tied at one match apiece. Smith said it was "interesting" he had not been asked for his version of events and said Crowe had reason to be annoyed about his judgement being questioned. "The way he handled both sides throughout the two Test matches, I thought he did a terrific job. I'd be feeling a bit annoyed if I was him, to be perfectly honest." Smith said he and senior Australia players Lyon and David Warner had spoken to incoming match referee Andy Pycroft, who will handle the remaining two Tests of what has been an often bad-tempered series. He said the referee would also speak to South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis "just to ensure that the series is continued to play in pretty good spirit."

Steve Smith criticises ICC on Rabada ruling

New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron has declared Kagiso Rabada as not guilty of level two offence, though, was imposed with&nbsp;a sanction of a fine of 25% of his match fee and will receive one demerit point.

Kagiso Rabada had faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe in the second match due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
BREAKING: Rabada cleared to play next <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAUS</a> Test! 
 
However, he still gets a fine and one demerit point. 
 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/Doji6J7CFl">https://t.co/Doji6J7CFl</a> <a href="https://t.co/CLUrqTmcmo">pic.twitter.com/CLUrqTmcmo</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/976001995940114432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said: &quot;The ICC wholly accepts today&rsquo;s decision and I would like to thank Mr. Heron for overseeing the hearing in a short time frame before the next Test starts in South Africa.

Rabada contested the ban saying that the incident was accidental and had appealed against the ban. The appeal was heard by New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron by teleconference on Monday in which he was found &quot;not guilty&quot; but he still he still gets a fine and one demerit point.

The South African management was confident and had already put Rabada&#39;s name in the 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday at St George&#39;s Park, Port Elizabeth.

South African squad:

Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada.

South African was confident and had already put Rabada's name in the 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday

New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron has declared Kagiso Rabada as not guilty of level two offence, though, was imposed with a sanction of a fine of 25% of his match fee and will receive one demerit point. Kagiso Rabada had faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe in the second match due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off. BREAKING: Rabada cleared to play next #SAvAUS Test! However, he still gets a fine and one demerit point. ➡️ https://t.co/Doji6J7CFl pic.twitter.com/CLUrqTmcmo — ICC (@ICC) March 20, 2018 × ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said: "The ICC wholly accepts today’s decision and I would like to thank Mr. Heron for overseeing the hearing in a short time frame before the next Test starts in South Africa. Rabada contested the ban saying that the incident was accidental and had appealed against the ban. The appeal was heard by New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron by teleconference on Monday in which he was found "not guilty" but he still he still gets a fine and one demerit point. The South African management was confident and had already put Rabada's name in the 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday at St George's Park, Port Elizabeth. South African squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada.

Kagiso Rabada 'not guilty' of level 2 offence, available for next match

Australia is currently on the tour of South Africa to play a four-match Test series.

Australia won the first match took the lead but South Africa levelled the series 1-1 by winning the second Test match.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kagiso-rabada-faces-suspension-for-disrespecting-steve-smith-35308">Kagiso Rabada</a>&nbsp;had faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe in the second match due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off.

Rabada earned <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kagiso-rabada-faces-suspension-for-disrespecting-steve-smith-35308">3 demerit points</a>&nbsp;which took him to the eight-point threshold which triggers an automatic two-match ban which Rabada is contesting currently.

His&nbsp;appeal against a&nbsp;ban for the last two Tests of the series will be heard by New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron by teleconference on Monday, with a verdict due to be announced within 48 hours.

The third Test match is scheduled to take place from March 22 at St George&#39;s Park, Port Elizabeth for which&nbsp;South Africa has announced its squad&nbsp;list in which Kagiso Rabada has been included along with two other fast bowlers&nbsp;in case he loses his appeal against a ban.

Duanne Olivier and Chris Morris have been included in a 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday.

South African squad:

Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada

&nbsp;

Duanne Olivier and Chris Morris have been included in a 17-man squad in case Kagiso Rabada loses his appeal against a ban

Australia is currently on the tour of South Africa to play a four-match Test series. Australia won the first match took the lead but South Africa levelled the series 1-1 by winning the second Test match. Kagiso Rabada had faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe in the second match due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off. Rabada earned 3 demerit points which took him to the eight-point threshold which triggers an automatic two-match ban which Rabada is contesting currently. His appeal against a ban for the last two Tests of the series will be heard by New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron by teleconference on Monday, with a verdict due to be announced within 48 hours. The third Test match is scheduled to take place from March 22 at St George's Park, Port Elizabeth for which South Africa has announced its squad list in which Kagiso Rabada has been included along with two other fast bowlers in case he loses his appeal against a ban. Duanne Olivier and Chris Morris have been included in a 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday. South African squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada

Despite ban, Kagiso Rabada named in South Africa's squad against Australia

South African seamer Vernon Philander has said his Twitter account was hacked after an inflammatory message was posted suggesting Australian captain Steve Smith could have avoided an incident that resulted in Kagiso Rabada being suspended.

Fast bowler Rabada made contact with Smith&#39;s shoulder after dismissing him in the first innings of their six-wicket victory in the second test in Port Elizabeth.

He was later found guilty of &quot;inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with a player&quot; by the International&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Council (ICC) and will miss the rest of the four-match series.

The 22-year-old, who took 11 wickets in the match, has appealed the decision.

The tweet, which had a video clip of the incident attached, said Smith was equally guilty and had milked the incident.

&quot;Haven&#39;t really seen the footage of this incident but by the looks of this ... Steve Smith gave KG (Rabada) the shoulder,&quot; it said.

&quot;He could have avoided any contact but to me, he is just as guilty. Trying some football skills to get a penalty??? Pity he didn&#39;t dive to top it off.&quot;

Early on Thursday, however, Philander distanced himself from the comment, saying someone else had posted to his 185,000 followers.

&quot;Waking up this morning to a lot of twitter craziness as my acc got hacked and someone posted a nice little article on my behalf,&quot; he posted after deleting the original message.

&quot;Sorry for all the drama or entertainment caused by the looks of it.&quot;

The episode is the latest twist in a tempestuous test series that has seen five players punished by the ICC.

In the first test in Durban, security cameras captured a heated argument between Warner and South Africa wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock after the teams left the field for tea on the fourth day.

Warner said the wicketkeeper had made &quot;vile and disgusting&quot; comments about his wife.

Warner was fined 75 percent of his match fee, while de Kock was fined 25 percent. Both were given demerit points.

Rabada was handed three demerit points for the shoulder bump in Port Elizabeth, taking him to eight within a two-year period, which triggered an automatic two-match suspension.

He was also given another demerit point for a send-off of Warner in the second innings.

Australians Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Marsh are the other players to receive fines and demerit points in the series.

The third match in the series, which is level at 1-1, starts in Cape Town on March 22.

Vernon Philander deleted the tweet which had a video clip of the incident attached and captioned as Smith was equally guilty and had milked the incident

South African seamer Vernon Philander has said his Twitter account was hacked after an inflammatory message was posted suggesting Australian captain Steve Smith could have avoided an incident that resulted in Kagiso Rabada being suspended. Fast bowler Rabada made contact with Smith's shoulder after dismissing him in the first innings of their six-wicket victory in the second test in Port Elizabeth. He was later found guilty of "inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with a player" by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and will miss the rest of the four-match series. The 22-year-old, who took 11 wickets in the match, has appealed the decision. The tweet, which had a video clip of the incident attached, said Smith was equally guilty and had milked the incident. "Haven't really seen the footage of this incident but by the looks of this ... Steve Smith gave KG (Rabada) the shoulder," it said. "He could have avoided any contact but to me, he is just as guilty. Trying some football skills to get a penalty??? Pity he didn't dive to top it off." Early on Thursday, however, Philander distanced himself from the comment, saying someone else had posted to his 185,000 followers. "Waking up this morning to a lot of twitter craziness as my acc got hacked and someone posted a nice little article on my behalf," he posted after deleting the original message. "Sorry for all the drama or entertainment caused by the looks of it." The episode is the latest twist in a tempestuous test series that has seen five players punished by the ICC. In the first test in Durban, security cameras captured a heated argument between Warner and South Africa wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock after the teams left the field for tea on the fourth day. Warner said the wicketkeeper had made "vile and disgusting" comments about his wife. Warner was fined 75 percent of his match fee, while de Kock was fined 25 percent. Both were given demerit points. Rabada was handed three demerit points for the shoulder bump in Port Elizabeth, taking him to eight within a two-year period, which triggered an automatic two-match suspension. He was also given another demerit point for a send-off of Warner in the second innings. Australians Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Marsh are the other players to receive fines and demerit points in the series. The third match in the series, which is level at 1-1, starts in Cape Town on March 22.

Vernon Philander denies making Smith remarks, says account hacked

Kagiso Rabada is appealing the guilty verdict handed to him by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching their code of conduct in a last-ditch bid to be able to play in the rest of the gripping test series against Australia.

Fast bowler Rabada was found guilty of &quot;inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with a player&quot; after leaning with his shoulder into Steve Smith when he dismissed the Australia captain in the first innings of South Africa&#39;s six wicket win in the second test in Port Elizabeth. The result levelled the four-match series at 1-1.

The 22-year-old, who took 11-150 in the game, was fined 50 percent of his match fee and given three demerit points, which took him past the tally of eight that triggers an automatic two-game suspension.

&quot;ICC confirms that Kagiso Rabada has appealed against the level two breach following the incident with Steve Smith during the Port Elizabeth Test. ICC will now appoint a Judicial Commissioner at the earliest opportunity and hearing details will be confirmed in due course,&quot; the governing body said on Wednesday.

The ICC have 48 hours to appoint a commissioner and a hearing will be heard within a seven day period. Rabada will remain suspended unless the commissioner takes a decision to allow him to play in the third test in Cape Town starting on March 22.

Although there was contact made with Smith, Rabada maintains that it was accidental and at the time he was not even aware he had brushed against his opponent.

&quot;If I knew I did it deliberately, I wouldn&#39;t have gone to contest (the charge),&quot; Rabada told reporters after the game. &quot;I didn&#39;t even feel contact in that moment because I was so pumped up.&quot;

Smith has suggested the Australian team wanted Rabada to play the remainder of the series as the seamer rose to the top of the test bowling rankings following his performance in Port Elizabeth.

&quot;He&#39;s a world class bowler and you always want to come up against the best, that&#39;s for sure,&quot; Smith said. &quot;He&#39;s right up there. He&#39;s unbelievable the way he&#39;s been bowling.

&quot;If he&#39;s there, he&#39;s there... if he&#39;s not, he&#39;s not. It&#39;s our job to try and play some better cricket.&quot;

Rabada is the fifth player to be punished by the ICC in what has been a tempestuous test series so far along with Australians David Warner, Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Marsh, and South African Quinton de Kock. 
&nbsp;

The 22-year-old, who took 11-150 in the game, was fined 50 percent of his match fee and given three demerit points, which took him past the tally of eight that triggers an automatic two-game suspension.

Kagiso Rabada is appealing the guilty verdict handed to him by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching their code of conduct in a last-ditch bid to be able to play in the rest of the gripping test series against Australia. Fast bowler Rabada was found guilty of "inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with a player" after leaning with his shoulder into Steve Smith when he dismissed the Australia captain in the first innings of South Africa's six wicket win in the second test in Port Elizabeth. The result levelled the four-match series at 1-1. The 22-year-old, who took 11-150 in the game, was fined 50 percent of his match fee and given three demerit points, which took him past the tally of eight that triggers an automatic two-game suspension. "ICC confirms that Kagiso Rabada has appealed against the level two breach following the incident with Steve Smith during the Port Elizabeth Test. ICC will now appoint a Judicial Commissioner at the earliest opportunity and hearing details will be confirmed in due course," the governing body said on Wednesday. The ICC have 48 hours to appoint a commissioner and a hearing will be heard within a seven day period. Rabada will remain suspended unless the commissioner takes a decision to allow him to play in the third test in Cape Town starting on March 22. Although there was contact made with Smith, Rabada maintains that it was accidental and at the time he was not even aware he had brushed against his opponent. "If I knew I did it deliberately, I wouldn't have gone to contest (the charge)," Rabada told reporters after the game. "I didn't even feel contact in that moment because I was so pumped up." Smith has suggested the Australian team wanted Rabada to play the remainder of the series as the seamer rose to the top of the test bowling rankings following his performance in Port Elizabeth. "He's a world class bowler and you always want to come up against the best, that's for sure," Smith said. "He's right up there. He's unbelievable the way he's been bowling. "If he's there, he's there... if he's not, he's not. It's our job to try and play some better cricket." Rabada is the fifth player to be punished by the ICC in what has been a tempestuous test series so far along with Australians David Warner, Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Marsh, and South African Quinton de Kock.

Cricket: Rabada to appeal guilty verdict and keep series hopes alive

Usman Khawaja scored 75 runs to lead an Australia fightback on the third day of the second test against South Africa at St George&#39;s Park, but succumbed just before close of play after seeing the tourists cancel out a first innings deficit.

Australia will take a 41-run led into the fourth day after finishing Sunday&#39;s play at 180 for five wickets.

Khawaja and Mitchell Marsh put together a 87-run partnership for the fifth wicket before Khawaja, whose place in the team has been under threat because of a lack of form, was trapped leg before wicket by Kagiso Rabada in the second last over of the day.

It was a blow to the tourists who had been showing strong resistance after teetering at 86-4 just after tea.

Marsh played a solid supporting role to be 39 not out at the end of the day. He will resume on Monday with Tim Paine, who has five runs to his name.

Australia lost three wickets in the second session after lunch, including that of captain Steve Smith, and then Shaun Marsh with the second ball of the last session before Khawaja dashed home hopes of rattling through the Australian batting line-up.

Smith, ranked the world&#39;s top test batsmen, went cheaply as he was caught behind for 11 after he got a slight edge to the spin bowling of Keshav Maharaj while David Warner, also key to their hopes, was bowled by Kagiso Rabada for 13.

South Africa had a first innings lead of 139 after being bowled out for 382 just before lunch.

AB de Villiers notched up his 22nd test century in scoring an unbeaten 126 in a busy morning session to help South Africa into a good lead.

He had not scored a ton in his last 13 tests but featured in an 84-run partnership with Vernon Philander (36) for the eighth wicket and further 58 with Keshav Maharaj, who swatted at the Australian bowling to score 30 off 24 balls.

Australia lead 1-0 in the four-test series.

Usman Khawaja scored 75 runs to lead an Australia fightback on the third day of the second test against South Africa at St George's Park, but succumbed just before close of play after seeing the tourists cancel out a first innings deficit

Usman Khawaja scored 75 runs to lead an Australia fightback on the third day of the second test against South Africa at St George's Park, but succumbed just before close of play after seeing the tourists cancel out a first innings deficit. Australia will take a 41-run led into the fourth day after finishing Sunday's play at 180 for five wickets. Khawaja and Mitchell Marsh put together a 87-run partnership for the fifth wicket before Khawaja, whose place in the team has been under threat because of a lack of form, was trapped leg before wicket by Kagiso Rabada in the second last over of the day. It was a blow to the tourists who had been showing strong resistance after teetering at 86-4 just after tea. Marsh played a solid supporting role to be 39 not out at the end of the day. He will resume on Monday with Tim Paine, who has five runs to his name. Australia lost three wickets in the second session after lunch, including that of captain Steve Smith, and then Shaun Marsh with the second ball of the last session before Khawaja dashed home hopes of rattling through the Australian batting line-up. Smith, ranked the world's top test batsmen, went cheaply as he was caught behind for 11 after he got a slight edge to the spin bowling of Keshav Maharaj while David Warner, also key to their hopes, was bowled by Kagiso Rabada for 13. South Africa had a first innings lead of 139 after being bowled out for 382 just before lunch. AB de Villiers notched up his 22nd test century in scoring an unbeaten 126 in a busy morning session to help South Africa into a good lead. He had not scored a ton in his last 13 tests but featured in an 84-run partnership with Vernon Philander (36) for the eighth wicket and further 58 with Keshav Maharaj, who swatted at the Australian bowling to score 30 off 24 balls. Australia lead 1-0 in the four-test series.

South Africa vs Australia, 2nd Test: Khawaja leads fightback but Proteas strike late

Australia is currently on the tour of South Africa to play a four-match Test series. Australia currently lead the highly controversial and dramatic series by 1-0.

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/warner-de-kock-fined-for-bringing-the-game-into-disrepute-35164">David Warner and Quinton de Kock</a> row, now Kagiso Rabada has faced a level two charge by the match referee&nbsp;Jeff Crowe and&nbsp;now might miss the last two Tests of the ongoing series.

The level 2 charge&nbsp;has been implied due to&nbsp;the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off&nbsp;on the first day of the opening Test.

Watch the video here:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAUS</a> This nudge between Rabada and Smith will no doubt be reviewed by the match referee <a href="https://t.co/2ln0tmTOln">pic.twitter.com/2ln0tmTOln</a>
&mdash; Michael Sherman (@Golfhackno1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Golfhackno1/status/972089842237607936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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An aggressive send off to steven smith by kagiso rabada. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvsAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/F9gHKVGTOQ">pic.twitter.com/F9gHKVGTOQ</a>
&mdash; Alauddin Khilji (@AlauddinKhilj10) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlauddinKhilj10/status/972088511703625728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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If a player receives four or more demerit points within a two-year period, these are converted into suspension points. A suspension point amounts to a ban from one test or two ODIs, or two T20s, whichever come first.

Though, Rabada said that he will contest all the allegations as the charges related to the incident is false. The contact was accidental not deliberated.

In just one game, a lot of things has happened already and the ugly side of cricket is visible. Recently, Australian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-bowler-nathan-lyon-fined-for-disrespecting-ab-de-villiers-34801">off-spinner Nathan Lyon</a> was booked by ICC for disrespecting former South African skipper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-bowler-nathan-lyon-fined-for-disrespecting-ab-de-villiers-34801">AB de Villiers</a>.

Also, ICC has charged <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/warner-de-kock-fined-for-bringing-the-game-into-disrepute-35164">David Warner</a> with 75 per cent of match fee from the first test and given three demerit points for a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/warner-de-kock-fined-for-bringing-the-game-into-disrepute-35164">level two charge</a> of bringing the game into disrepute because of an ugly verbal <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/warner-de-kock-fined-for-bringing-the-game-into-disrepute-35164">confrontation with De Kock</a>.

Quinton de Kock was fined 25 percent of his match fee and given one demerit point for the heated off-field exchange.

&nbsp;

Kagiso Rabada has faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe on the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off on the first day of the opening Test

Australia is currently on the tour of South Africa to play a four-match Test series. Australia currently lead the highly controversial and dramatic series by 1-0. After David Warner and Quinton de Kock row, now Kagiso Rabada has faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe and now might miss the last two Tests of the ongoing series. The level 2 charge has been implied due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off on the first day of the opening Test. Watch the video here: #SAvAUS This nudge between Rabada and Smith will no doubt be reviewed by the match referee pic.twitter.com/2ln0tmTOln — Michael Sherman (@Golfhackno1) March 9, 2018 × An aggressive send off to steven smith by kagiso rabada. #SAvAUS #SAvsAUS pic.twitter.com/F9gHKVGTOQ — Alauddin Khilji (@AlauddinKhilj10) March 9, 2018 × If a player receives four or more demerit points within a two-year period, these are converted into suspension points. A suspension point amounts to a ban from one test or two ODIs, or two T20s, whichever come first. Though, Rabada said that he will contest all the allegations as the charges related to the incident is false. The contact was accidental not deliberated. In just one game, a lot of things has happened already and the ugly side of cricket is visible. Recently, Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon was booked by ICC for disrespecting former South African skipper AB de Villiers. Also, ICC has charged David Warner with 75 per cent of match fee from the first test and given three demerit points for a level two charge of bringing the game into disrepute because of an ugly verbal confrontation with De Kock. Quinton de Kock was fined 25 percent of his match fee and given one demerit point for the heated off-field exchange.

Kagiso Rabada faces suspension for disrespecting Steve Smith

Kagiso Rabada produced a sublime spell of bowling to take five wickets as Australia were dismissed for 243 in their first innings on the opening day of the second test on Friday.

Rabada began expensively before lunch, conceding 47 runs, but then returned to claim five wickets for the loss of just 13 runs on either side of tea and effectively turn the game around.

South Africa were 39 for one wicket in reply at the close, losing Aiden Markram for 11 runs.

Rabada completed a fine day&#39;s performance coming in as the nightwatchman and scoring an unbeaten 17 runs off 14 balls. He will resume with Dean Elgar, who is 11 not out, on Saturday.

Rabada finished with bowling figures of 5-96 while the 21-year-old Lungi Ngidi, who was a surprise pick ahead of Morne Morkel, took 3-51 including bowling David Warner for 63.

Warner, who was also slow to get going, found some flow late in the morning and reached 50 at lunch.

The Australian opener had been the focus of much of the build-up to the second test after an ugly spat last Sunday with South Africa wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock in the first test in Durban, which the tourists won by 118 runs.

Warner was eventually bowled for 63 on Friday as Australia reached 117-3 but it was only when Rabada trapped captain Steve Smith lbw for 25 that the wickets began to tumble.

Five went down for just for 21 runs as Rabada also dismissed the Marsh brothers, Shaun and Mitchell, and then Pat Cummins for a golden duck after tea.

Mitchell Starc (8) was Rabada&#39;s fifth victim, clean bowled to leave Australia reeling on 182-8.

But Tim Paine scored 36 runs as Australia added 61 runs for the last two wickets to the frustration of home side. Paine was the last wicket to fall when Ngidi bowled him.

Rabada began expensively before lunch, conceding 47 runs, but then returned to claim five wickets for the loss of just 13 runs on either side of tea and effectively turn the game around

Kagiso Rabada produced a sublime spell of bowling to take five wickets as Australia were dismissed for 243 in their first innings on the opening day of the second test on Friday. Rabada began expensively before lunch, conceding 47 runs, but then returned to claim five wickets for the loss of just 13 runs on either side of tea and effectively turn the game around. South Africa were 39 for one wicket in reply at the close, losing Aiden Markram for 11 runs. Rabada completed a fine day's performance coming in as the nightwatchman and scoring an unbeaten 17 runs off 14 balls. He will resume with Dean Elgar, who is 11 not out, on Saturday. Rabada finished with bowling figures of 5-96 while the 21-year-old Lungi Ngidi, who was a surprise pick ahead of Morne Morkel, took 3-51 including bowling David Warner for 63. Warner, who was also slow to get going, found some flow late in the morning and reached 50 at lunch. The Australian opener had been the focus of much of the build-up to the second test after an ugly spat last Sunday with South Africa wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock in the first test in Durban, which the tourists won by 118 runs. Warner was eventually bowled for 63 on Friday as Australia reached 117-3 but it was only when Rabada trapped captain Steve Smith lbw for 25 that the wickets began to tumble. Five went down for just for 21 runs as Rabada also dismissed the Marsh brothers, Shaun and Mitchell, and then Pat Cummins for a golden duck after tea. Mitchell Starc (8) was Rabada's fifth victim, clean bowled to leave Australia reeling on 182-8. But Tim Paine scored 36 runs as Australia added 61 runs for the last two wickets to the frustration of home side. Paine was the last wicket to fall when Ngidi bowled him.

South Africa vs Australia, 2nd Test: Rabada grabs five to leave Australia reeling

Team India is on the verge of losing second Test match against the Proteas as India&#39;s top order again failed to perform and reduced to 35 for three at the close on the fourth day of the second Test but the temper of both the sides can be seen on the field.

Earlier Indian skipper, Virat Kohli, exchanged few words with South African pacer Kagiso Rabada in the first innings of the second Test when he scored 153 runs and played some handsome shots.

Frustrated Rabada, who was eyeing Kohli&#39;s wicket, couldn&#39;t refrain from sledging at the Indian batsman but his plan didn&#39;t really work out as Kohli calmly retaliated and gave words of advice to the youngster.

Kohli&#39;s problems are not ending, despite scoring a century in the first innings, India trails far behind in the second Test and might lose the series as well.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-found-guilty-of-misbehaving-with-umpires-29690" target="_blank">Recently, he was penalised 25 %</a> of match fee for &ldquo;conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game.&rdquo;

Kohli also received one demerit point for his Level 1 offence, along with the fine for breaching ICC&#39;s code of conduct.

The incident occurred in the 25th over of South Africa&rsquo;s second innings. The Indian captain was seen complaining to field umpire Michael Gough about the ball being affected by a damp outfield following a shower in the third session. Kohli then threw the ball on to the ground &ldquo;in an aggressive manner&rdquo;, field umpires complained to the match referee Chris Broad.

&nbsp;

Indian skipper, Virat Kohli exchanged few words with South African pacer Kagiso Rabada in the first innings of the second Test

Team India is on the verge of losing second Test match against the Proteas as India's top order again failed to perform and reduced to 35 for three at the close on the fourth day of the second Test but the temper of both the sides can be seen on the field. Earlier Indian skipper, Virat Kohli, exchanged few words with South African pacer Kagiso Rabada in the first innings of the second Test when he scored 153 runs and played some handsome shots. Frustrated Rabada, who was eyeing Kohli's wicket, couldn't refrain from sledging at the Indian batsman but his plan didn't really work out as Kohli calmly retaliated and gave words of advice to the youngster. Kohli's problems are not ending, despite scoring a century in the first innings, India trails far behind in the second Test and might lose the series as well. Recently, he was penalised 25 % of match fee for “conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game.” Kohli also received one demerit point for his Level 1 offence, along with the fine for breaching ICC's code of conduct. The incident occurred in the 25th over of South Africa’s second innings. The Indian captain was seen complaining to field umpire Michael Gough about the ball being affected by a damp outfield following a shower in the third session. Kohli then threw the ball on to the ground “in an aggressive manner”, field umpires complained to the match referee Chris Broad.

2nd Test: After hitting ton, Kohli retaliated against Rabada

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