In a blow for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2026 because of an injury. This is definitely not good news for the five-time champions who had just started to get their campaign on the track with two consecutive wins after three back-to-back losses in the first three matches. Khaleel suffered the injury during CSK's last match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday (Apr 14) at Chepauk in Chennai. He had left the field five balls into the final over of the night as Gujapneet Singh completed the over.<h2>What injury happened to Khaleel Ahmed?</h2>Khaleel injured his right quadricep during the match against KKR and the CSK informed in an statement that "the injury sustained will take more than 12 weeks to heal," rendering him effectively out of the rest of the tournament. The left-arm pacer, in the five matches played, has been very effective, taking only two wickets at an average of 73.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-his-worst-nightmare-ex-aus-skipper-finch-says-kkr-need-not-to-play-green-because-of-price-tag-1776243519557">IPL 2026 | 'His worst nightmare': Ex-AUS skipper Finch says KKR need not to play Green because of price tag</a>This is not the first injury worry for CSK, for whom a couple of players, including MS Dhoni, are already trying to get fit. Dhoni is making a recovery from the calf injury which he suffered before the season and is yet to play a match this IPL.Apart from him pacer Nathan Ellis also has been sidelined from the season because of injury. Ellis's replacement Spencer Johnson is also recovering from an injury and is yet to link up with the squad.<h2>Where do CSK stand on points table?</h2>CSK currently are eighth on 10-team points table with four points from two wins and three losses in five matches played. They started the season with loss against Rajasthan Royals (8 wickets), Punjab Kings (5 wickets), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (43 runs), before winning against Delhi Capitals (23 runs) and KKR (32 runs). CSK play next three matches against SRH (Apr 18), Mumbai Indians (Apr 23), and Gujarat Titans (Apr 26).

Khaleel suffered the injury during CSK's last match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday (Apr 14) at Chepauk in Chennai. He had left the field five balls into the final over of the night as Gujapneet Singh completed the over.

In a blow for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2026 because of an injury. This is definitely not good news for the five-time champions who had just started to get their campaign on the track with two consecutive wins after three back-to-back losses in the first three matches. Khaleel suffered the injury during CSK's last match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday (Apr 14) at Chepauk in Chennai. He had left the field five balls into the final over of the night as Gujapneet Singh completed the over. What injury happened to Khaleel Ahmed? Khaleel injured his right quadricep during the match against KKR and the CSK informed in an statement that "the injury sustained will take more than 12 weeks to heal," rendering him effectively out of the rest of the tournament. The left-arm pacer, in the five matches played, has been very effective, taking only two wickets at an average of 73. Also Read - IPL 2026 | 'His worst nightmare': Ex-AUS skipper Finch says KKR need not to play Green because of price tag This is not the first injury worry for CSK, for whom a couple of players, including MS Dhoni, are already trying to get fit. Dhoni is making a recovery from the calf injury which he suffered before the season and is yet to play a match this IPL. Apart from him pacer Nathan Ellis also has been sidelined from the season because of injury. Ellis's replacement Spencer Johnson is also recovering from an injury and is yet to link up with the squad. Where do CSK stand on points table? CSK currently are eighth on 10-team points table with four points from two wins and three losses in five matches played. They started the season with loss against Rajasthan Royals (8 wickets), Punjab Kings (5 wickets), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (43 runs), before winning against Delhi Capitals (23 runs) and KKR (32 runs). CSK play next three matches against SRH (Apr 18), Mumbai Indians (Apr 23), and Gujarat Titans (Apr 26).

Khaleel suffered the injury during CSK's last match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday (Apr 14) at Chepauk in Chennai. He had left the field five balls into the final over of the night as Gujapneet Singh completed the over.

IPL 2026 | Khaleel Ahmed, in another injury blow for CSK, out for the season

From Kagiso Rabada to Sunil Narine, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Lasith Malinga, Khaleel Ahmed and Imran Tahir

From Kagiso Rabada to Sunil Narine, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Lasith Malinga, Khaleel Ahmed and Imran Tahir

Meet top 5 bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in Indian Premier League

From Jofra Archer to Pat Cummins,  here are IPL 2025’s six most expensive bowling spells, with three Indian pacers included in the list. Cricket Sports Photos.

IPL 2025: 6 bowlers with most runs conceded; number 3 will shock you!

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> hit a half-century against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings">Chennai Super Kings</a> (CSK) as RCB registered a thrilling two-run win on Saturday in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Kohli displayed his aggressive nature from the first ball itself, and sent out a message by smashing CSK fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/khaleel-ahmed">Khaleel Ahmed</a> for consecutive sixes in the third over of the match. It also enabled Kohli to complete his pre-match prophecy, as he had warned Khaleel during an altercation from the first time these two sides met.
On March 28, during the first encounter between CSK and RCB in IPL 2025, bowler Khaleel Ahmed had begun celebrating the wicket of Virat Kohli despite the latter not having been given out.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
KING REMEMBERS! 😁 Come for Virat 🆚 MSD, stay for Virat 🆚 Khaleel too! 🍿 Watch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/dl97nUeINj">https://t.co/dl97nUeINj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvCSK</a> | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 2 Hindi &amp; JioHotstar! <a href="https://t.co/khdozY9jMg">pic.twitter.com/khdozY9jMg</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1918676811405197507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Subsequent to that, Kohli had apparently jokingly warned the pacer that he would give him the treatment on the field the next time they see each other.
"Ab tu aa (You come once again)," Kohli had said to Khaleel, implying that he would not give the pacer a free pass the next time they encounter each other.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/f1-red-bulls-max-verstappen-takes-pole-position-for-miami-grand-prix-9031070">F1: Red Bull's Max Verstappen takes pole position for Miami Grand Prix</a>
Kohli's performance on Saturday ensured that his prophecy came true. The 36-year-old clobbered Khaleel for two consecutive sixes to finish off the third over of RCB's innings.
<h2>A day to forget for Khaleel</h2>
It was a day to forget for Khaleel. In his two overs in the powerplay, he was slammed for 32 runs by Kohli and Jacob Bethell. However, his misery was compiled at the end when RCB finisher Romario Shepherd smashed 33 runs off him, to complete the most expensive over in IPL 2025.
Khaleel was smashed for two sixes and two boundaries in the over by Shepherd, who went on to hit the joint-second-fastest half-century in IPL history, courtesy his 14-ball 53.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
He said it, he did it. 🙌✅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> launches a couple into the stands off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KhaleelAhmed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KhaleelAhmed</a>&rsquo;s bowling! The KING remembers &amp; strikes back! 👑🔥 Watch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/dl97nUeINj">https://t.co/dl97nUeINj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvCSK</a> | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/TaxGW3TofA">pic.twitter.com/TaxGW3TofA</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1918675863123427443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Shepherd's innings saw RCB go past the 200-run mark, and ensured that they posted a total of 213/5 in 20 overs. The total proved sufficient as CSK fell just short by two runs.
Khaleel has enjoyed a good season despite his team's poor form, taking 14 wickets in 11 matches. RCB have won six away games in IPL 2025, and have now won two on the trot at home at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

India News, Sports: Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli smashed a half-century against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as RCB pulled out a two-run win

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) opener Virat Kohli hit a half-century against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as RCB registered a thrilling two-run win on Saturday in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Kohli displayed his aggressive nature from the first ball itself, and sent out a message by smashing CSK fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed for consecutive sixes in the third over of the match. It also enabled Kohli to complete his pre-match prophecy, as he had warned Khaleel during an altercation from the first time these two sides met. On March 28, during the first encounter between CSK and RCB in IPL 2025, bowler Khaleel Ahmed had begun celebrating the wicket of Virat Kohli despite the latter not having been given out. KING REMEMBERS! 😁 Come for Virat 🆚 MSD, stay for Virat 🆚 Khaleel too! 🍿 Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/dl97nUeINj #IPLonJioStar 👉 #RCBvCSK | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 2 Hindi & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/khdozY9jMg — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 3, 2025 Subsequent to that, Kohli had apparently jokingly warned the pacer that he would give him the treatment on the field the next time they see each other. "Ab tu aa (You come once again)," Kohli had said to Khaleel, implying that he would not give the pacer a free pass the next time they encounter each other. Also Read: F1: Red Bull's Max Verstappen takes pole position for Miami Grand Prix Kohli's performance on Saturday ensured that his prophecy came true. The 36-year-old clobbered Khaleel for two consecutive sixes to finish off the third over of RCB's innings. A day to forget for Khaleel It was a day to forget for Khaleel. In his two overs in the powerplay, he was slammed for 32 runs by Kohli and Jacob Bethell. However, his misery was compiled at the end when RCB finisher Romario Shepherd smashed 33 runs off him, to complete the most expensive over in IPL 2025. Khaleel was smashed for two sixes and two boundaries in the over by Shepherd, who went on to hit the joint-second-fastest half-century in IPL history, courtesy his 14-ball 53. He said it, he did it. 🙌✅#ViratKohli launches a couple into the stands off #KhaleelAhmed’s bowling! The KING remembers & strikes back! 👑🔥 Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/dl97nUeINj #IPLonJioStar 👉 #RCBvCSK | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star… pic.twitter.com/TaxGW3TofA — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 3, 2025 Shepherd's innings saw RCB go past the 200-run mark, and ensured that they posted a total of 213/5 in 20 overs. The total proved sufficient as CSK fell just short by two runs. Khaleel has enjoyed a good season despite his team's poor form, taking 14 wickets in 11 matches. RCB have won six away games in IPL 2025, and have now won two on the trot at home at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

IPL 2025: 'Will show you now', Kohli makes good on his words, turns up the heat on Khaleel-WATCH

From Harshal Patel to Khaleel Ahmed here's a look at six bowlers with most expensive IPL overs also featurimg Daniel Sams, Parwinder Awana  and Ravi Bopara. Sports | Photos

From Harshal Patel to Khaleel Ahmed six bowlers with most expensive IPL overs

Delhi Capitals beat Punjab Kings by nine wickets in the Indian Premier League here on Wednesday. 
Punjab were all out for 115 after being put in to bat. Jitesh Sharma top scored for Punjab with 32 off 23 balls. 
Delhi spinners enjoyed their time in the middle with Kuldeep Yadav, Lalit Yaav and Axar Patel taking two wickets each.

Delhi raced to victory in 10.3 overs after Prithvi Shaw (41 off 20 balls) and David Warner (60 not out off 30 balls) shared 83 runs for the opening wicket. The game was in doubt with Delhi reporting the sixth COVID case in their camp but the BCCI decided to go ahead after players returned negative tests following two rounds of testing in the morning.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-an-ipl-game-be-postponed-in-case-of-covid-19-outbreak-in-a-teams-camp-heres-what-bcci-rules-say-472451">Can an IPL game be postponed in case of COVID-19 outbreak in a team's camp? Here's what BCCI rules say</a>

Brief Scores 
Punjab Kings: 115 all out in 20 overs (Jitesh 32; Kuldeep 2/24, Lalit 2/11, Axar 2/10). Delhi Capitals 119/1 in 10.3 overs (Shaw 41, Warner 60 not out)

Delhi Capitals beat Punjab Kings by nine wickets in the Indian Premier League here on Wednesday. Punjab were all out for 115 after being put in to bat. Jitesh Sharma top scored for Punjab with 32 off 23 balls.

Delhi Capitals beat Punjab Kings by nine wickets in the Indian Premier League here on Wednesday. Punjab were all out for 115 after being put in to bat. Jitesh Sharma top scored for Punjab with 32 off 23 balls. Delhi spinners enjoyed their time in the middle with Kuldeep Yadav, Lalit Yaav and Axar Patel taking two wickets each. Delhi raced to victory in 10.3 overs after Prithvi Shaw (41 off 20 balls) and David Warner (60 not out off 30 balls) shared 83 runs for the opening wicket. The game was in doubt with Delhi reporting the sixth COVID case in their camp but the BCCI decided to go ahead after players returned negative tests following two rounds of testing in the morning. ALSO READ | Can an IPL game be postponed in case of COVID-19 outbreak in a team's camp? Here's what BCCI rules say Brief Scores Punjab Kings: 115 all out in 20 overs (Jitesh 32; Kuldeep 2/24, Lalit 2/11, Axar 2/10). Delhi Capitals 119/1 in 10.3 overs (Shaw 41, Warner 60 not out)

IPL 2022: DC spinners, openers lead charge as Rishabh Pant & Co. achieve massive win over PBKS

The recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction saw the ten teams build their squads almost from scratch and rope in some quality cricketers from around the globe in their respective sides. While Indian fast bowlers went for big money, some overseas stars also turned out to be costly picks at the mega auction.&nbsp;

Indian wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan was the most expensive buy at the IPL 2022 mega auction after going to his former side Mumbai Indians for a whopping Rs 15.25 crore (INR 152.5 million), making him the second-most expensive player in the history of IPL auctions.

The auction kept cricket fans across the globe hooked to their television screens as it produced some thrilling bidding wars between the ten teams.&nbsp;Noted presenter and broadcaster Charu Sharma won the hearts of many with his amazing work as an auctioneer after he had to replace Hugh Edmeades, who had an abrupt fall on day 1 and had to be provided immediate medical attention.

While Sharma went about his business with poise and confidence, he ended up making a big goof-up on day 2 of the IPL 2022 mega auction. The mistake took place when Delhi Capitals (DC)&nbsp;and Mumbai Indians (MI) were locked in a bidding war for Indian pacer Khaleel Ahmed.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prodigal-son-returns-to-delhi-capitals-complete-squad-of-dc-for-ipl-2022-with-warner-marsh-shardul-in-camp-453024">Complete squad of Delhi Capitals&nbsp;for IPL 2022 with Warner, Marsh, Shardul in camp</a>

As the bidding crossed the Rs 5 crore (INR 50 million) mark, Mumbai Indians were the first to raise the bid to Rs 5.25 crore (INR 52.5 million). Sharma then asked Delhi Capitals if they were willing to up their bid to Rs 5.50 crore (INR 55 million). DC co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi were seen hesitatingly raising the paddle to up the bid while also having a discussion with the other members in the DC panel.

While the bid should have been raised to Rs 5.50 crore (INR 55 million), Sharma mistakenly announced that DC had the highest bid for the player at the previous amount of Rs 5.25 crore (INR 52.5 million). Khaleel was eventually sold to DC for the same amount, however, it was Mumbai Indians who had first bid that amount for the Indian pacer.

The video of the gaffe from auctioneer Sharma has now gone viral on social media.&nbsp;

Watch video:

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— Ashok (@Ashok94540994) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ashok94540994/status/1493468713399758848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/453466">Players go through walls for Dhoni, never heard anyone say they didn't like playing for CSK: Aakash Chopra</a>

Delhi Capitals co-owner&nbsp;Grandhi's tactics at the mega auction became one of the major talking points on social media as he was accused of increasing the price of the players despite not having any concrete interest in them. However, the tactics seemed to have worked in DC's favour as they managed to build a strong squad covering the majority of the bases. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction saw the ten teams build their squads almost from scratch and rope in some quality cricketers from around the globe in their respective sides.

The recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction saw the ten teams build their squads almost from scratch and rope in some quality cricketers from around the globe in their respective sides. While Indian fast bowlers went for big money, some overseas stars also turned out to be costly picks at the mega auction. Indian wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan was the most expensive buy at the IPL 2022 mega auction after going to his former side Mumbai Indians for a whopping Rs 15.25 crore (INR 152.5 million), making him the second-most expensive player in the history of IPL auctions. The auction kept cricket fans across the globe hooked to their television screens as it produced some thrilling bidding wars between the ten teams. Noted presenter and broadcaster Charu Sharma won the hearts of many with his amazing work as an auctioneer after he had to replace Hugh Edmeades, who had an abrupt fall on day 1 and had to be provided immediate medical attention. While Sharma went about his business with poise and confidence, he ended up making a big goof-up on day 2 of the IPL 2022 mega auction. The mistake took place when Delhi Capitals (DC) and Mumbai Indians (MI) were locked in a bidding war for Indian pacer Khaleel Ahmed. Also Read: Complete squad of Delhi Capitals for IPL 2022 with Warner, Marsh, Shardul in camp As the bidding crossed the Rs 5 crore (INR 50 million) mark, Mumbai Indians were the first to raise the bid to Rs 5.25 crore (INR 52.5 million). Sharma then asked Delhi Capitals if they were willing to up their bid to Rs 5.50 crore (INR 55 million). DC co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi were seen hesitatingly raising the paddle to up the bid while also having a discussion with the other members in the DC panel. While the bid should have been raised to Rs 5.50 crore (INR 55 million), Sharma mistakenly announced that DC had the highest bid for the player at the previous amount of Rs 5.25 crore (INR 52.5 million). Khaleel was eventually sold to DC for the same amount, however, it was Mumbai Indians who had first bid that amount for the Indian pacer. The video of the gaffe from auctioneer Sharma has now gone viral on social media. Watch video: pic.twitter.com/YJOPip3gx6 — Ashok (@Ashok94540994) February 15, 2022 × Also Read: Players go through walls for Dhoni, never heard anyone say they didn't like playing for CSK: Aakash Chopra Delhi Capitals co-owner Grandhi's tactics at the mega auction became one of the major talking points on social media as he was accused of increasing the price of the players despite not having any concrete interest in them. However, the tactics seemed to have worked in DC's favour as they managed to build a strong squad covering the majority of the bases.

WATCH: Charu Sharma makes big goof-up, sells Khaleel Ahmed to DC for same bid as MI at IPL mega auction

Sunrisers Hyderabad mentor VVS Laxman on Saturday revealed why left-arm pacer Thangarasu Natarajan missed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Known as a yorker-specialist, Natarajan missing from the playing XI came as a huge surprise to many as SRH opted to start with Khaleel Ahmed. <o:p></o:p>

However, Laxman revealed why the left-arm sensation missed the match against Mumbai Indians. The former Indian batsman said that Natarajan is suffering from a sore knee and the medical staff deemed him unfit for the match against MI. The SRH mentor added that the medical team is assessing the Indian pacer and will decide on the best possible step soon. <o:p></o:p>

“Yeah, unfortunately, Natarajan missed out because of a sore knee and a niggle in his left knee, he was ruled out of this match. So, he was unfit for this match and that’s why we went with Khaleel Ahmed. We are going to assess the condition of Natarajan and I’m sure that the medical staff of Sunrisers will take the right decision which will be beneficial for him and the franchise,” VVS Laxman said in the post-match press conference on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-378258" hreflang="en">From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a>

Laxman further praised Khaleel for his good outing in his first IPL 2021 match after he conceded just 25 runs in his four-over quota while picking up one wicket. <o:p></o:p>

“I was very impressed with the way Khaleel Ahmed bowled in his first game of the season. I think he assessed the conditions really well and used a lot of his variation along with extracting a lot of pace and bounce off the surface. So, a lot of positives for SRH in the Khaleel Ahmed bowled,” VVS Laxman said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-head-to-head-stats-chennai-weather-forecast-pitch-report-all-you-need-to-know-378360" hreflang="en">RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai weather forecast, pitch report - All you need to know</a>

SRH will next play against Punjab Kings here at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Wednesday.<o:p></o:p>

Sunrisers Hyderabad mentor VVS Laxman on Saturday revealed why left-arm pacer Thangarasu Natarajan missed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Sunrisers Hyderabad mentor VVS Laxman on Saturday revealed why left-arm pacer Thangarasu Natarajan missed the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Known as a yorker-specialist, Natarajan missing from the playing XI came as a huge surprise to many as SRH opted to start with Khaleel Ahmed. However, Laxman revealed why the left-arm sensation missed the match against Mumbai Indians. The former Indian batsman said that Natarajan is suffering from a sore knee and the medical staff deemed him unfit for the match against MI. The SRH mentor added that the medical team is assessing the Indian pacer and will decide on the best possible step soon. “Yeah, unfortunately, Natarajan missed out because of a sore knee and a niggle in his left knee, he was ruled out of this match. So, he was unfit for this match and that’s why we went with Khaleel Ahmed. We are going to assess the condition of Natarajan and I’m sure that the medical staff of Sunrisers will take the right decision which will be beneficial for him and the franchise,” VVS Laxman said in the post-match press conference on Saturday. ALSO READ: From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols Laxman further praised Khaleel for his good outing in his first IPL 2021 match after he conceded just 25 runs in his four-over quota while picking up one wicket. “I was very impressed with the way Khaleel Ahmed bowled in his first game of the season. I think he assessed the conditions really well and used a lot of his variation along with extracting a lot of pace and bounce off the surface. So, a lot of positives for SRH in the Khaleel Ahmed bowled,” VVS Laxman said. ALSO READ: RCB vs KKR, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, Chennai weather forecast, pitch report - All you need to know SRH will next play against Punjab Kings here at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Wednesday.

IPL 2021: VVS Laxman reveals why T Natarajan missed Mumbai Indians match

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against West Indies in the second T20 International of a three-match series at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill on Sunday.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against West Indies in the second T20 International of a three-match series at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill on Sunday. West Indies made one change in their team as they brought in Khary Pierre in place of John Campbell meanwhile the Virat-led team is the same. India, who were knocked out from recently concluded Cricket World Cup in England and Wales in the semi-finals, have taken a 1-0 lead in the series. In the first match, pacer Navdeep Saini starred in team's winning cause in his debut match. Saini took three important wickets as India limited the West Indies to 95 for nine and chased down the target in the 18th over. "Moisture from yesterday morning is gone. Think the pitch will get slower and slower," commented Kohli on pitch condition at the time of toss. "First six overs ball's going to come on nicely. Important to assess pitch once ball gets older. Have to think on the feet on such a pitch. Same team," Kohli added. West Indies skipper Carlos Brathwaite backed the boys to come out on top, he said, "Message has been to keep that positive intent, just make smarter decisions. John Campbell is out so Narine opens the batting. Pierre is in." Playing XI: West Indies: Evin Lewis, Sunil Narine, Nicholas Pooran(w), Kieron Pollard, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Carlos Brathwaite(c), Keemo Paul, Khary Pierre, Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas ﻿India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Manish Pandey, Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Navdeep Saini, K Khaleel Ahmed

India vs West Indies, 2nd T20I: India opt to bat first

After Jonny Bairstow's and David Warner's scintillating performance, Hyderabad <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-ipl-2019-match-38-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-212276">defeated Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata by nine wickets</a> with five overs remaining in an Indian Premier League match on Sunday.&nbsp;

With the win, Hyderabad are now at number fourth position on the points table with 10 points in nine games they have played so far.&nbsp;

The openers Warner and Bairstow gave a steady start to the team in their 160-run chase at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.&nbsp;

Bairstow scored and unbeaten 80 runs off 43 balls and his innings included seven 4s and four 6s. His strike was 186.05.&nbsp;

On the other hand, David Warner scored 67 runs off 38 balls before losing his wicket to Kolkata's Harry Gurney.&nbsp;

Earlier, young left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed grabbed three wickets in an impressive spell to help Hyderabad restrict Kolkata 159 for 8.&nbsp;

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For his outstanding performance, he was awarded with the man of the match award.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old speedster removed Sunil Narine (25 off 7 balls), who was looking dangerous in his first spell and then came back to dismiss Shubman Gill (3) and Chris Lynn (51) in his corresponding spells to keep Kolkata in check.&nbsp;

Senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned with the figures of 2/35 while leg-spinner Rashid Khan (1/23) and seamer Sandeep Sharma (1/37) took a wicket apiece with the Hyderabad's bowlers making life difficult for the Kolkata batsmen.&nbsp;

For Kolkata, Lynn was the top-scored with a dogged 47-ball 51. Rinku Singh was the other notable contributor with a 25-ball 30.

Put in to bat, Lynn and Sunil Narine took the opposition to the cleaners. Both openers hitting boundaries of their first balls. The duo quickly stitched a 42-run partnership before Ahmed dismissed Narine in the third over. &nbsp;

Narine's blistering innings of 24 runs off eight balls was laced with three boundaries and two maximums.&nbsp;

With the wicket of Narine, the momentum shifted in Hyderabad's favour. In Khaleel's next over, he dismissed Gill (3). Nitish Rana (11) and captain Dinesh Karthik (6) also returned to the dressing room in quick succession.&nbsp;

Rinku and Lynn shared a 51-run stand for the fifth wicket to stabilise the innings before Sandeep Sharma dismissed the 21-year-old Indian. Big-hitter Andre Russel scored 15 off 9 balls. &nbsp;

He hit two sixes off Kumar before the right-arm seamer dismissed the Jamaican in the penultimate over.

After Jonny Bairstow's and David Warner's scintillating performance, Hyderabad defeated Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata by nine wickets with five overs remaining in an Indian Premier League match on Sunday.

After Jonny Bairstow's and David Warner's scintillating performance, Hyderabad defeated Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata by nine wickets with five overs remaining in an Indian Premier League match on Sunday. With the win, Hyderabad are now at number fourth position on the points table with 10 points in nine games they have played so far. The openers Warner and Bairstow gave a steady start to the team in their 160-run chase at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Bairstow scored and unbeaten 80 runs off 43 balls and his innings included seven 4s and four 6s. His strike was 186.05. On the other hand, David Warner scored 67 runs off 38 balls before losing his wicket to Kolkata's Harry Gurney. Earlier, young left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed grabbed three wickets in an impressive spell to help Hyderabad restrict Kolkata 159 for 8. A look at the Points Table after Match 38 of the #VIVOIPL. pic.twitter.com/T4nTWEgV09 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 21, 2019 × For his outstanding performance, he was awarded with the man of the match award. The 21-year-old speedster removed Sunil Narine (25 off 7 balls), who was looking dangerous in his first spell and then came back to dismiss Shubman Gill (3) and Chris Lynn (51) in his corresponding spells to keep Kolkata in check. Senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned with the figures of 2/35 while leg-spinner Rashid Khan (1/23) and seamer Sandeep Sharma (1/37) took a wicket apiece with the Hyderabad's bowlers making life difficult for the Kolkata batsmen. For Kolkata, Lynn was the top-scored with a dogged 47-ball 51. Rinku Singh was the other notable contributor with a 25-ball 30. Put in to bat, Lynn and Sunil Narine took the opposition to the cleaners. Both openers hitting boundaries of their first balls. The duo quickly stitched a 42-run partnership before Ahmed dismissed Narine in the third over. Narine's blistering innings of 24 runs off eight balls was laced with three boundaries and two maximums. With the wicket of Narine, the momentum shifted in Hyderabad's favour. In Khaleel's next over, he dismissed Gill (3). Nitish Rana (11) and captain Dinesh Karthik (6) also returned to the dressing room in quick succession. Rinku and Lynn shared a 51-run stand for the fifth wicket to stabilise the innings before Sandeep Sharma dismissed the 21-year-old Indian. Big-hitter Andre Russel scored 15 off 9 balls. He hit two sixes off Kumar before the right-arm seamer dismissed the Jamaican in the penultimate over.

IPL 2019: Hyderabad register a nine-wicket victory over Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata

Tom Moody, the former Australian cricketer and current Sunrisers Hyderabad coach,&nbsp;confirmed that both Kane Williamson (New Zealand cricket captain) and Khaleel Ahmed (Indian fast-bowler) will be fit for their next match against Delhi.

Moody&nbsp;took to his Twitter handle to update about the players, "Yes, Kane will be fit for our next match!, as will Khaleel".

Williamson's return can prove to a blessing in disguise for the team, as Hydebarad&nbsp;have been struggling with middle-order batting issues in this year's edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The team lost back to back matches against Mumbai and Punjab, and the loss was a result of poor batting performance.

While the openers, David Warner and Jonny Bairstow have been in tremendous form in the tournament, the middle-order batsmen have failed to rise to the occasion.

Meanwhile, the addition of Khaleel will give bowling depth to SRH, as they have been struggling with poor bowling in the death overs.

Hyderabad&nbsp;have played six matches so far in this year's edition of the IPL and they have recorded 3 wins and 3 losses.

The team is currently placed on the fourth position in the league standings. Hyderabad will next host Delhi on April 14 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

Tom Moody, the former Australian cricketer and current Sunrisers Hyderabad coach, confirmed that both Kane Williamson (New Zealand cricket captain) and Khaleel Ahmed (Indian fast-bowler) will be fit for their next match against Delhi.

Tom Moody, the former Australian cricketer and current Sunrisers Hyderabad coach, confirmed that both Kane Williamson (New Zealand cricket captain) and Khaleel Ahmed (Indian fast-bowler) will be fit for their next match against Delhi. Moody took to his Twitter handle to update about the players, "Yes, Kane will be fit for our next match!, as will Khaleel". Williamson's return can prove to a blessing in disguise for the team, as Hydebarad have been struggling with middle-order batting issues in this year's edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The team lost back to back matches against Mumbai and Punjab, and the loss was a result of poor batting performance. While the openers, David Warner and Jonny Bairstow have been in tremendous form in the tournament, the middle-order batsmen have failed to rise to the occasion. Meanwhile, the addition of Khaleel will give bowling depth to SRH, as they have been struggling with poor bowling in the death overs. Hyderabad have played six matches so far in this year's edition of the IPL and they have recorded 3 wins and 3 losses. The team is currently placed on the fourth position in the league standings. Hyderabad will next host Delhi on April 14 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

IPL 2019: Hyderabad's Williamson, Khaleel to be fit for clash against Delhi

Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl in the first T20 match of a three-match series on Sunday.

India's skipper Sharma said that the team has a lot of experience of playing cricket at Kolkata's Eden Gardens stadium and the condition will be supportive.&nbsp;

"Batting second becomes easier, the dew might turn out to be a factor as well, it's going to play a massive role,"&nbsp;Sharma, standing in as skipper for the resting Virat Kohli, said at the toss.

Krunal Pandya and Khaleel Ahmed make their T20I debut for team India.

There are three debutants - Oshane Thomas, Fabian Allen and Khari Pierre - for West Indies.

Skipper Carlos Brathwaite said West Indies, who are the current World T20 champions, are looking to be "expressive" on the field.

Carlos Brathwaite said, "We just need to enjoy ourselves, express ourselves and take on the challenge as a family."

The weather condition is hazy in Kolkata 52 per cent humid.

Playing XI:

West Indies: Rovman Powell, Darren Bravo, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer, Denesh Ramdin(w), Kieron Pollard, Carlos Brathwaite(c), Keemo Paul, Fabian Allen, Khary Pierre, Oshane Thomas

India: Rohit Sharma(c), Shikhar Dhawan, Lokesh Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, K Khaleel Ahmed, Umesh Yadav

Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl in the first T20 match of a three-match series on Sunday. India's skipper Sharma said that the team has a lot of experience of playing cricket at Kolkata's Eden Gardens stadium and the condition will be supportive.

Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl in the first T20 match of a three-match series on Sunday. India's skipper Sharma said that the team has a lot of experience of playing cricket at Kolkata's Eden Gardens stadium and the condition will be supportive. "Batting second becomes easier, the dew might turn out to be a factor as well, it's going to play a massive role," Sharma, standing in as skipper for the resting Virat Kohli, said at the toss. Krunal Pandya and Khaleel Ahmed make their T20I debut for team India. There are three debutants - Oshane Thomas, Fabian Allen and Khari Pierre - for West Indies. Skipper Carlos Brathwaite said West Indies, who are the current World T20 champions, are looking to be "expressive" on the field. Carlos Brathwaite said, "We just need to enjoy ourselves, express ourselves and take on the challenge as a family." The weather condition is hazy in Kolkata 52 per cent humid. Playing XI: West Indies: Rovman Powell, Darren Bravo, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer, Denesh Ramdin(w), Kieron Pollard, Carlos Brathwaite(c), Keemo Paul, Fabian Allen, Khary Pierre, Oshane Thomas India: Rohit Sharma(c), Shikhar Dhawan, Lokesh Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, K Khaleel Ahmed, Umesh Yadav

IND vs WI, 1st T20: India opt to bowl first against West Indies

Ambati Rayudu's batting at number four and young Khaleel Ahmed's emergence as the third seamer were the two biggest gains from the ODI series against the West Indies, feel India skipper Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri.

"Two areas I can think of are for third seamer - Khaleel has been outstanding. God forbid anything happens to Bhuvi or Bumrah, good to have Khaleel who can come in and take wickets. Rayudu has also taken responsibility at No.4. Those two areas we were looking at (prior to the series). And those two have been addressed," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Shastri on his part also seemed happy with the kind of pressure Rayudu absorbed, having made a comeback in the Indian team.

"I am pretty happy with Rayudu. It is never easy to make a comeback in the team after couple of years. Even though you have to express yourself, you hold back and that is understandable because couple of bad performances can lose you your place. He has handled the pressure really well and batted really well in the last match," the head coach said.

Shastri seemed impressed with left-arm seamer Khaleel but wants him to add a few more clicks.

"The left-arm fast bowlers can be very handy. Khaleel is raw, he doesn't have the experience but he has the variations and has the aggression too. Once he adds to his speed, he will be more than effective."

Shastri said the team is back on track after its sixth successive ODI series win at home.

"We are back on track. I thought we were below par in the field in the second and third ODI. Sometimes you need a wake-up call and we were at our best in the last two ODIs. This Windies team is a promising unit. They have some exceptional players who with exposure, I am sure will test some of the big sides," the coach felt.

Skipper Kohli too praised his bowlers for their clinical show in the last two games.&nbsp;

"Because of our clinical performance, we were able to finish the game in a few hours. Credit to the bowling unit for pitching it in the right areas. Was surprised that West

Indies chose to bat, we wanted to bowl first anyway."&nbsp;

West Indies captain Jason Holder rued the lack of consistency from his team.

"Not the finish we were looking for. Lacked consistency in the last couple of games. We didn't bat well. Credit to the guys, admirable performance against India in India.

Thought it would've been a good pitch. Their bowlers put the ball in the right areas but lot of our dismissals were poor shots, it wasn't about the pitch. We needed to show more application."&nbsp;

Shimron Hetmyer and Shai Hope were the two bright spots for the West Indies in the series.

"Even Oshane Thomas here, he showed he's got something. Just needs to work a little harder," added Holder.

Ambati Rayudu's batting at number four and young Khaleel Ahmed's emergence as the third seamer were the two biggest gains from the ODI series against the West Indies, feel India skipper Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri.

Ambati Rayudu's batting at number four and young Khaleel Ahmed's emergence as the third seamer were the two biggest gains from the ODI series against the West Indies, feel India skipper Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri. "Two areas I can think of are for third seamer - Khaleel has been outstanding. God forbid anything happens to Bhuvi or Bumrah, good to have Khaleel who can come in and take wickets. Rayudu has also taken responsibility at No.4. Those two areas we were looking at (prior to the series). And those two have been addressed," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Shastri on his part also seemed happy with the kind of pressure Rayudu absorbed, having made a comeback in the Indian team. "I am pretty happy with Rayudu. It is never easy to make a comeback in the team after couple of years. Even though you have to express yourself, you hold back and that is understandable because couple of bad performances can lose you your place. He has handled the pressure really well and batted really well in the last match," the head coach said. Shastri seemed impressed with left-arm seamer Khaleel but wants him to add a few more clicks. "The left-arm fast bowlers can be very handy. Khaleel is raw, he doesn't have the experience but he has the variations and has the aggression too. Once he adds to his speed, he will be more than effective." Shastri said the team is back on track after its sixth successive ODI series win at home. "We are back on track. I thought we were below par in the field in the second and third ODI. Sometimes you need a wake-up call and we were at our best in the last two ODIs. This Windies team is a promising unit. They have some exceptional players who with exposure, I am sure will test some of the big sides," the coach felt. Skipper Kohli too praised his bowlers for their clinical show in the last two games. "Because of our clinical performance, we were able to finish the game in a few hours. Credit to the bowling unit for pitching it in the right areas. Was surprised that West Indies chose to bat, we wanted to bowl first anyway." West Indies captain Jason Holder rued the lack of consistency from his team. "Not the finish we were looking for. Lacked consistency in the last couple of games. We didn't bat well. Credit to the guys, admirable performance against India in India. Thought it would've been a good pitch. Their bowlers put the ball in the right areas but lot of our dismissals were poor shots, it wasn't about the pitch. We needed to show more application." Shimron Hetmyer and Shai Hope were the two bright spots for the West Indies in the series. "Even Oshane Thomas here, he showed he's got something. Just needs to work a little harder," added Holder.

Khaleel, Rayudu's performance big gains from series: say Kohli, Shastri

India's left-arm speedster Khaleel Ahmed, who played a vital role yesterday in India's victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI, on Tuesday received an official warning and a demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.

The incident took place in the 14th over, when Khaleel, after having Samuels caught in the slips by Rohit Sharma, advanced aggressively towards the departing batsman, which, in the view of the on-field umpires, could have provoked a reaction from the Windies player.

"India's Khaleel Ahmed received an official warning and one demerit point for advancing aggressively towards Marlon Samuels after dismissing the batsman during the fourth one-day international between India and the Windies on Monday," the ICC said in a statement.

"The India fast bowler, who returned figures of 3/13, was found to have violated Article 2.5 of the Code, which relates to 'using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an international match," it added.

After the match, Khaleel admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by the match referee.&nbsp;

Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee, and one or two demerit points.

India's left-arm speedster Khaleel Ahmed, who played a vital role yesterday in India's victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI, on Tuesday received an official warning and a demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.

India's left-arm speedster Khaleel Ahmed, who played a vital role yesterday in India's victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI, on Tuesday received an official warning and a demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The incident took place in the 14th over, when Khaleel, after having Samuels caught in the slips by Rohit Sharma, advanced aggressively towards the departing batsman, which, in the view of the on-field umpires, could have provoked a reaction from the Windies player. "India's Khaleel Ahmed received an official warning and one demerit point for advancing aggressively towards Marlon Samuels after dismissing the batsman during the fourth one-day international between India and the Windies on Monday," the ICC said in a statement. "The India fast bowler, who returned figures of 3/13, was found to have violated Article 2.5 of the Code, which relates to 'using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an international match," it added. After the match, Khaleel admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by the match referee. Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee, and one or two demerit points.

IND vs WI: Khaleel Ahmed reprimanded, handed one demerit point for provocative action

Khaleel Ahmed, a 20-year-old left-arm pacer who has earned praise from the likes of Zaheer Khan and Rahul Dravid, scalped three crucial wickets to power India to 224-run victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI on Monday.&nbsp;

Windies star batsman Shimron Hetmyer, Marlon Samuels and Rovman Powell were the wickets he clinched in the five overs he bowled, giving just 13 runs, bringing the economy to 2.60, something which cannot be ignored. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The out and out fast bowler had played in the Quadrangular trophy for India A where he picked up seven wickets in four matches, including 3/45 against South Africa A in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Prior to that, Khaleel played five List-A matches for India A in England and impressed with eight wickets.

Son of a compounder, Khaleel hails from the small town of Tonk in Rajasthan.&nbsp;

With 12 wickets in three innings, including 3/29 against Sri Lanka in the final of the Tri-Nation Under-19s tournament in Colombo, he broke into India’s Under-19 World Cup squad in 2016.&nbsp;

It was the same year where he was picked up by the IPL franchise Delhi, where his association began with the then coach of the franchise Rahul Dravid.&nbsp;

In two years, Khaleel’s development has impressed Dravid to an extent that he feels the left-arm pacer can be part of India’s bench-strength and a potential candidate for the World Cup in England next year.

Khaleel actually came into light after he was bought for a whopping amount of Rs 3 crore by another IPL franchise Hyderabad on the first day of Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions.

He moved to Hyderabad this year but played just one match and went wicketless.

Ahmed's father used to hate cricket and even tried to dissuade him from playing, however, his then coach Imtiyaz Khan, played a big part in convincing Khaleel's father to let him continue playing.&nbsp;

Within a short span, Khaleel has earned him a place for himself but it will be his consistency that will earn him the chance to bowl in 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

Khaleel Ahmed, a 20-year-old left-arm pacer who has earned praise from the likes of Zaheer Khan and Rahul Dravid, scalped three crucial wickets to power India to 224-run victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI on Monday.

Khaleel Ahmed, a 20-year-old left-arm pacer who has earned praise from the likes of Zaheer Khan and Rahul Dravid, scalped three crucial wickets to power India to 224-run victory over West Indies in the 4th ODI on Monday. Windies star batsman Shimron Hetmyer, Marlon Samuels and Rovman Powell were the wickets he clinched in the five overs he bowled, giving just 13 runs, bringing the economy to 2.60, something which cannot be ignored. The out and out fast bowler had played in the Quadrangular trophy for India A where he picked up seven wickets in four matches, including 3/45 against South Africa A in Bengaluru. Prior to that, Khaleel played five List-A matches for India A in England and impressed with eight wickets. Son of a compounder, Khaleel hails from the small town of Tonk in Rajasthan. With 12 wickets in three innings, including 3/29 against Sri Lanka in the final of the Tri-Nation Under-19s tournament in Colombo, he broke into India’s Under-19 World Cup squad in 2016. It was the same year where he was picked up by the IPL franchise Delhi, where his association began with the then coach of the franchise Rahul Dravid. In two years, Khaleel’s development has impressed Dravid to an extent that he feels the left-arm pacer can be part of India’s bench-strength and a potential candidate for the World Cup in England next year. Khaleel actually came into light after he was bought for a whopping amount of Rs 3 crore by another IPL franchise Hyderabad on the first day of Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions. He moved to Hyderabad this year but played just one match and went wicketless. Ahmed's father used to hate cricket and even tried to dissuade him from playing, however, his then coach Imtiyaz Khan, played a big part in convincing Khaleel's father to let him continue playing. Within a short span, Khaleel has earned him a place for himself but it will be his consistency that will earn him the chance to bowl in 2019 World Cup.

Khaleel Ahmed: India's left-handed seamer in contention for 2019 World Cup

Having impressed the team management with his skill set, left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed now wants to seal his spot in the 2019 World Cup-bound Indian squad with some good performances in the upcoming series against the West Indies.&nbsp;

Khaleel made his debut during India's victorious Asia Cup campaign in Dubai and his ability to swing the ball at a fair pace impressed none other than stand-in captain Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;

With 18 games left before India's World Cup opener against South Africa on June 5, next year, Khaleel has his priorities in place.&nbsp;

"It's a good preparation for me for the World Cup. I want to take as many wickets as I can in the ODIs leading up to the World Cup. It will also boost my confidence and I will be under less pressure, if I am picked for the World Cup," Khaleel said ahead of India's first ODI against West Indies on Sunday.&nbsp;

His stint at the Delhi Daredevils with Zaheer Khan as the mentor has helped him evolve, feels Khaleel.&nbsp;

"I think I became a better bowler with his (Zaheer's) advice," the 20-year-old from Rajasthan's Tonk said.&nbsp;

"I have spent a lot of time with Zaheer bhai during my two-year stint at the Delhi Daredevils. We played in different conditions during IPL and he always kept discussing on how to bowl on different surfaces," he added.&nbsp;

In his second series with the senior team, Khaleel recalled how nervous he was before his debut against Hong Kong, in which he recorded impressive figures of 3 for 48.&nbsp;

"I was very nervous (for my debut) as my first tournament happened to be a big tournament like the Asia Cup. There was pressure. But after doing well on debut, I felt I could go further," Khaleel said after the net session at Assam Cricket Association's Barsapra Stadium.&nbsp;

Even though it's his second series, Khaleel said that the seniors have never made him feel like a newcomer.&nbsp;

"I never have a feel that I'm a junior in the side. Seniors support me well. Everyone keeps talking to me and boost my confidence," he said of the good camaraderie in the side, he said.

Having impressed the team management with his skill set, left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed now wants to seal his spot in the 2019 World Cup-bound Indian squad with some good performances in the upcoming series against the West Indies.

Having impressed the team management with his skill set, left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed now wants to seal his spot in the 2019 World Cup-bound Indian squad with some good performances in the upcoming series against the West Indies. Khaleel made his debut during India's victorious Asia Cup campaign in Dubai and his ability to swing the ball at a fair pace impressed none other than stand-in captain Rohit Sharma. With 18 games left before India's World Cup opener against South Africa on June 5, next year, Khaleel has his priorities in place. "It's a good preparation for me for the World Cup. I want to take as many wickets as I can in the ODIs leading up to the World Cup. It will also boost my confidence and I will be under less pressure, if I am picked for the World Cup," Khaleel said ahead of India's first ODI against West Indies on Sunday. His stint at the Delhi Daredevils with Zaheer Khan as the mentor has helped him evolve, feels Khaleel. "I think I became a better bowler with his (Zaheer's) advice," the 20-year-old from Rajasthan's Tonk said. "I have spent a lot of time with Zaheer bhai during my two-year stint at the Delhi Daredevils. We played in different conditions during IPL and he always kept discussing on how to bowl on different surfaces," he added. In his second series with the senior team, Khaleel recalled how nervous he was before his debut against Hong Kong, in which he recorded impressive figures of 3 for 48. "I was very nervous (for my debut) as my first tournament happened to be a big tournament like the Asia Cup. There was pressure. But after doing well on debut, I felt I could go further," Khaleel said after the net session at Assam Cricket Association's Barsapra Stadium. Even though it's his second series, Khaleel said that the seniors have never made him feel like a newcomer. "I never have a feel that I'm a junior in the side. Seniors support me well. Everyone keeps talking to me and boost my confidence," he said of the good camaraderie in the side, he said.

Getting wickets will ease pressure if I am picked for World Cup: Khaleel

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