IPL 2019: Amid Ashwin's 'Mankad' controversy, Punjab set to face Kolkata at Eden Gardens

<p>Australian cricketer David Warner made a stupendous Indian Premier League comeback with a scintillating 85, helping Hyderabad reach a challenging 181/3 in their campaign opener.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But unfortunately, the Orage Army failed to defend and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-andre-russell-steals-thrilling-win-for-kolkata-against-hyderabad-205352">lost the match to Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putting behind the embarrassing ball-tampering scandal, that kept him out last year, the Aussie smashed three sixes and nine boundaries in his 53-ball knock.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His produced an entertaining performance at the Eden Gardens and earned praises for his stunning comeback. But it was one of his big sixes that really caught spectators' eye.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While playing the 32-year-old launched one over the ropes only for it to crash into a cameraman&nbsp;but luckily he was unhurt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This has been absolutely bludgeoned. And hit our cameraman as well – what’s he doing?" one of the commentators said.</p>

<p>Another said, "He’s got to duck. He wasn’t even looking. Get a helmet on son."</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">🧐<a href="https://t.co/eX25CKDPvF">https://t.co/eX25CKDPvF</a></p>
— CricBoll (@mycricboll) <a href="https://twitter.com/mycricboll/status/1109787424815833089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Watch out! Warner’s SIX lands onto cameraman <a href="https://t.co/nu2PBUq3tQ">https://t.co/nu2PBUq3tQ</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ipl</a></p>
— Shekhar Singh (@Shekhar_jour) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shekhar_jour/status/1109830916572999680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">David Warner was just unstoppable : <a href="https://t.co/6eUpctkyqu">https://t.co/6eUpctkyqu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DavidWarner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DavidWarner</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrangeArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrangeArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/IFzBEsImNQ">https://t.co/IFzBEsImNQ</a></p>
— The Cricket Times (@CricketTimesHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketTimesHQ/status/1109796634802700289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>This was third-highest total against Hyderabad which was successfully chased down in IPL history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first was done by Punjab in 2014 when they chased 2016 and the second was Delhi's 186-run chase in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hyderabad is a team known for its depth and variation in bowling.&nbsp;</p>


Australian cricketer David Warner made a stupendous Indian Premier League comeback with a scintillating 85, helping Hyderabad reach a challenging 181/3 in their campaign opener.

Australian cricketer David Warner made a stupendous Indian Premier League comeback with a scintillating 85, helping Hyderabad reach a challenging 181/3 in their campaign opener. But unfortunately, the Orage Army failed to defend and lost the match to Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata. Putting behind the embarrassing ball-tampering scandal, that kept him out last year, the Aussie smashed three sixes and nine boundaries in his 53-ball knock. His produced an entertaining performance at the Eden Gardens and earned praises for his stunning comeback. But it was one of his big sixes that really caught spectators' eye. While playing the 32-year-old launched one over the ropes only for it to crash into a cameraman but luckily he was unhurt. "This has been absolutely bludgeoned. And hit our cameraman as well – what’s he doing?" one of the commentators said. Another said, "He’s got to duck. He wasn’t even looking. Get a helmet on son." Watch the video: 🧐https://t.co/eX25CKDPvF — CricBoll (@mycricboll) March 24, 2019 × Watch out! Warner’s SIX lands onto cameraman https://t.co/nu2PBUq3tQ via @ipl — Shekhar Singh (@Shekhar_jour) March 24, 2019 × David Warner was just unstoppable : https://t.co/6eUpctkyqu#IPL2019 #DavidWarner #OrangeArmy #T20 #KKRvSRH https://t.co/IFzBEsImNQ — The Cricket Times (@CricketTimesHQ) March 24, 2019 × This was third-highest total against Hyderabad which was successfully chased down in IPL history. The first was done by Punjab in 2014 when they chased 2016 and the second was Delhi's 186-run chase in 2017. Hyderabad is a team known for its depth and variation in bowling.

Watch: David Warner hits cameraman during IPL match against Kolkata

IPL 2019: From Warner's comeback to Russell's explosive performance, key points of Kolkata vs Hyderabad match

<p>Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-ipl-2019-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-at-eden-gardens-205270">defeated Bhuvneshwar Kumar-led Hyderabad</a> to start their Indian Premier League 2019 campaign on a winning note.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the toss, Karthik put Hyderabad to bat first at the high scoring pitch of Eden Gardens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Batting first, the comeback-man David Warner struck 85 off 53 balls and shared a 118-run stand for the first wicket with wicket-keeper batsman Jonny Bairstow (39).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vijay Shankar contributed unbeaten 40 in Hyderabad's total to give Kolkata a 182-run target.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While chasing, Kolkata suffered a bumpy start but the middle order batsmen held inspired the team towards victory.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And, that's a FIFTY from <a href="https://twitter.com/NitishRana_27?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NitishRana_27</a> 😎😎<br />
<br />
His 6th in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> 97/3 after 13 overs. <a href="https://t.co/dXbWnTViND">pic.twitter.com/dXbWnTViND</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1109810640779042818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Andre Russell played a whirlwind unbeaten knock of 49-runs to script his side's dramatic win after Nitish Rana scored 68 at top of the batting order.&nbsp;</p>


Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata defeated Bhuvneshwar Kumar-led Hyderabad to start their Indian Premier League 2019 campaign on a winning note. After winning the toss, Karthik put Hyderabad to bat first at the high scoring pitch of Eden Gardens.

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata defeated Bhuvneshwar Kumar-led Hyderabad to start their Indian Premier League 2019 campaign on a winning note. After winning the toss, Karthik put Hyderabad to bat first at the high scoring pitch of Eden Gardens. Batting first, the comeback-man David Warner struck 85 off 53 balls and shared a 118-run stand for the first wicket with wicket-keeper batsman Jonny Bairstow (39). Vijay Shankar contributed unbeaten 40 in Hyderabad's total to give Kolkata a 182-run target. While chasing, Kolkata suffered a bumpy start but the middle order batsmen held inspired the team towards victory. And, that's a FIFTY from @NitishRana_27 😎😎 His 6th in #VIVOIPL #KKR 97/3 after 13 overs. pic.twitter.com/dXbWnTViND — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 24, 2019 × Andre Russell played a whirlwind unbeaten knock of 49-runs to script his side's dramatic win after Nitish Rana scored 68 at top of the batting order.

IPL 2019: Andre Russell steals thrilling win for Kolkata against Hyderabad

<p>David Warner scored his 37th IPL half-century to propel his team <a href="Live updates | IPL 2019: Kolkata need 182 runs to win against Hyderabad">Hyderabad to an exceptional start against Kolkata</a> and help them set a &nbsp;target of 182 runs.</p>

<p>Warner scored the half century during the second game of the ongoing 12th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Australian batsman reached the fifty digit mark in the ninth over as he hit 12 runs in Kolkata all-rounder Andre Russell’s first over.</p>

<p>In the absence of regular captain Kane Williamson, Warner opened the batting alongside England opening batsman Jonny Bairstow. The duo ended up sharing a 118-run partnership for the first wicket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Twitterati absolutely enjoyed, watching Warner bat such a way on his IPL comeback. There were praises from all corners for his marvellous knock.</p>

<p>Here are some of the Twitter reactions:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">warner is so much better off smashing the ball than finding ways to tamper with it <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a></p>
— Gaurav Kalra (@gauravkalra75) <a href="https://twitter.com/gauravkalra75/status/1109775800474099712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Warner is BACK ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2019</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1109783838769713154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Warner didn’t go anywhere...right?? Warner has issued a strong warning... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a></p>
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1109780289604091904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">David Warner becomes the first overseas cricketer to score over 700 runs against KKR in IPL...</p>
— Broken Cricket (@BrokenCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrokenCricket/status/1109772552321138693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Most 50+ scores in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a>:<br />
40 D Warner<br />
38 V Kohli<br />
36 G Gambhir/ S Raina<br />
35 Rohit Sharma<br />
<br />
What A Player 🔥❤️<br />
<br />
Mr. IPL <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Warner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Warner</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvKKR</a></p>
— Cricket Freak🤷‍♂️ (@naveensurana06) <a href="https://twitter.com/naveensurana06/status/1109782720895438848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Warner scored 85 runs from 53 balls. The innings included nine boundaries and three sixes. While he came close to a century, he was dismissed off Russell when Robin Uthappa took a brilliant catch at cover. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The 32-year-old returned to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after missing the entire 2018 season due to a one-year-ban given by Cricket Australia for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal.&nbsp;</p>


David Warner scored his 37th IPL half-century to propel his team Hyderabad to an exceptional start against Kolkata and help them set a target of 182 runs. Warner scored the half century during the second game of the ongoing 12th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

David Warner scored his 37th IPL half-century to propel his team Hyderabad to an exceptional start against Kolkata and help them set a target of 182 runs. Warner scored the half century during the second game of the ongoing 12th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Australian batsman reached the fifty digit mark in the ninth over as he hit 12 runs in Kolkata all-rounder Andre Russell’s first over. In the absence of regular captain Kane Williamson, Warner opened the batting alongside England opening batsman Jonny Bairstow. The duo ended up sharing a 118-run partnership for the first wicket. Meanwhile, Twitterati absolutely enjoyed, watching Warner bat such a way on his IPL comeback. There were praises from all corners for his marvellous knock. Here are some of the Twitter reactions: warner is so much better off smashing the ball than finding ways to tamper with it #KKRvSRH — Gaurav Kalra (@gauravkalra75) March 24, 2019 × Warner is BACK ... #IPL2019 — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) March 24, 2019 × Warner didn’t go anywhere...right?? Warner has issued a strong warning... #KKRvSRH #IPL — Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) March 24, 2019 × David Warner becomes the first overseas cricketer to score over 700 runs against KKR in IPL... — Broken Cricket (@BrokenCricket) March 24, 2019 × Most 50+ scores in #IPL: 40 D Warner 38 V Kohli 36 G Gambhir/ S Raina 35 Rohit Sharma What A Player 🔥❤️ Mr. IPL #Warner #SRHvKKR — Cricket Freak🤷‍♂️ (@naveensurana06) March 24, 2019 × Warner scored 85 runs from 53 balls. The innings included nine boundaries and three sixes. While he came close to a century, he was dismissed off Russell when Robin Uthappa took a brilliant catch at cover. The 32-year-old returned to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after missing the entire 2018 season due to a one-year-ban given by Cricket Australia for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal.

IPL 2019: David Warner smashes 37th IPL fifty; Twitterati say 'welcome back'

IPL 2019, Hyderabad vs Kolkata: Players to watch out for

<p>From MS Dhoni's tactic to Jasprit Bumrah's yorkers, from Virat Kohli's strategy to Kuldeep Yadav's googlies, from Steve Smith's desperation to show his footwork to Andre Russell's sixers, the 12th edition of Indian Premier League will be all these and much more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two-time champions Kolkata will play all their Indian Premier League home matches at the Eden Gardens despite West Bengal going into polls during all seven phases of general elections, which is an advantage for the team as playing at home is always thrilling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Skipper Dinesh Karthik led Kolkata to a third-place finish following their loss to Hyderabad in the second eliminator last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karthik, who scored 3401 runs so far in the IPL including 16 half-centuries, will look to make most of the IPL opportunity to get the selectors' attention. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Kolkata have roped in Carlos Brathwaite to go alongside Andre Russell, Sunil Narine as they would look to reinforce their batting firepower with Chris Lynn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav along with Sunil Naraine will be key men in Kolkata's bowling department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Kuldeep and Sunil have taken 17 wickets in the previous season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kolkata's spin bowling coach Carl Crowe on Tuesday lauded Sunil Narine for maintaining top standard despite having gone through action modification in recent years.</p>

<p>Narine's action was found to be suspect a multiple times and had to undertake corrective measures under Crowe, who is now a part of Knights' set-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Narine has been one of the chief architects behind the KKR's success in the Indian Premier League in 2012 and 2014 editions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Crowe said the spin talents in Kolkata's armoury will pose a big threat to the opposition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Expectations are always good. You always want pressure. I think we have three good spinners who are proven performers. Great to have KC (Cariappa) joining us. He is in good form."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On papers, the Kolkata team looks balanced having efficient players in both the department. The bench comprises&nbsp;of young guns like&nbsp;Shubman Gill and&nbsp;Shivam Mavi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here is the squad:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Retained:</strong> Dinesh Karthik, Robin Uthappa, Chris Lynn, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Shubman Gill, Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi, Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti</p>

<p><strong>Purchased:</strong> Carlos Brathwaite (Rs 5 crore), Lockie Ferguson (Rs 1.60 crore), Anrich Nortje (Rs 20 lakh), Nikhil Naik (Rs 20 lakh), Harry Gurney (Rs 75 lakh), Yarra Prithviraj (Rs 20 lakh), Joe Denly (Rs 1 crore), Shrikant Mundhe (Rs 20 lakh)</p>


From MS Dhoni's tactic to Jasprit Bumrah's yorkers, from Virat Kohli's strategy to Kuldeep Yadav's googlies, from Steve Smith's desperation to show his footwork to Andre Russell's sixers, the 12th edition of Indian Premier League will be all these and much more.

From MS Dhoni's tactic to Jasprit Bumrah's yorkers, from Virat Kohli's strategy to Kuldeep Yadav's googlies, from Steve Smith's desperation to show his footwork to Andre Russell's sixers, the 12th edition of Indian Premier League will be all these and much more. Two-time champions Kolkata will play all their Indian Premier League home matches at the Eden Gardens despite West Bengal going into polls during all seven phases of general elections, which is an advantage for the team as playing at home is always thrilling. Skipper Dinesh Karthik led Kolkata to a third-place finish following their loss to Hyderabad in the second eliminator last year. Karthik, who scored 3401 runs so far in the IPL including 16 half-centuries, will look to make most of the IPL opportunity to get the selectors' attention. Kolkata have roped in Carlos Brathwaite to go alongside Andre Russell, Sunil Narine as they would look to reinforce their batting firepower with Chris Lynn. Spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav along with Sunil Naraine will be key men in Kolkata's bowling department. Both Kuldeep and Sunil have taken 17 wickets in the previous season. Kolkata's spin bowling coach Carl Crowe on Tuesday lauded Sunil Narine for maintaining top standard despite having gone through action modification in recent years. Narine's action was found to be suspect a multiple times and had to undertake corrective measures under Crowe, who is now a part of Knights' set-up. Narine has been one of the chief architects behind the KKR's success in the Indian Premier League in 2012 and 2014 editions. Crowe said the spin talents in Kolkata's armoury will pose a big threat to the opposition. "Expectations are always good. You always want pressure. I think we have three good spinners who are proven performers. Great to have KC (Cariappa) joining us. He is in good form." On papers, the Kolkata team looks balanced having efficient players in both the department. The bench comprises of young guns like Shubman Gill and Shivam Mavi. Here is the squad: Retained: Dinesh Karthik, Robin Uthappa, Chris Lynn, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Shubman Gill, Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi, Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti Purchased: Carlos Brathwaite (Rs 5 crore), Lockie Ferguson (Rs 1.60 crore), Anrich Nortje (Rs 20 lakh), Nikhil Naik (Rs 20 lakh), Harry Gurney (Rs 75 lakh), Yarra Prithviraj (Rs 20 lakh), Joe Denly (Rs 1 crore), Shrikant Mundhe (Rs 20 lakh)

IPL 2019: Squad analysis of Kolkata

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Simon Katich is confident that their captain Dinesh Karthik will once again excel in his designated finisher's role, making a case for his selection in India's World Cup squad.</p>

<p>Karthik, who didn't play the one-dayers against Australia, is back in the mix after Rishabh Pant's failure to grab the chance.</p>

<p>Asked about his batting position, Katich dropped a hint that the KKR skipper would use the Indian Premier League to showcase his skill set in pressure games.</p>

<p>"I think what Dinesh brings in his experience (in crunch situations). He has played that role very well for India and for us. You know what you will get from him down the innings. He is hard to bowl to," Katich told reporters on Thursday.</p>

<p>"So he will be in the mix for the World Cup. It will give the Indian selectors a tough job to pick with so much talent around," he added.</p>

<p>He was all praise for young Shubman Gill, who, he though, will play across formats for India.</p>

<p>"I am sure pretty soon he will be permanently in the Indian setup. He obviously has got talent and had a fantastic IPL last year."</p>

<p>The former Australia left-handed batsman was happy that the team had a great limited-overs series in India.</p>

<p>"Losing to India in Australia was tough for Australians to take. Full credit for the way they played. They deserved to win," said Katich.</p>

<p>He was all praise for the top order.</p>

<p>"The top order was outstanding especially Khawaja, Ashton Turner was great too. Ahead of World Cup, important decisions are there for the selectors to take. Having Smith and Warner back before World Cup gives us more confidence."</p>

<p>The Australian team is peaking at the right time, felt Katich.</p>

<p>"Their form hasn't been brilliant in the last few months but World Cup cricket is all about playing six weeks brilliantly," said Katich, who was an integral part of both Tests and ODI side during his playing days.</p>

<p>"It doesn't matter what happened previously. It's all about performing under pressure situations in knockout style. Smith and Warner will be hungry.</p>

<p>"They are hurt by the experience. What happened has happened. They will come back hungry and if they come back firing and rest of the boys are in form, then it will be good," he concluded.</p>


Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Simon Katich is confident that their captain Dinesh Karthik will once again excel in his designated finisher's role, making a case for his selection in India's World Cup squad.

Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Simon Katich is confident that their captain Dinesh Karthik will once again excel in his designated finisher's role, making a case for his selection in India's World Cup squad. Karthik, who didn't play the one-dayers against Australia, is back in the mix after Rishabh Pant's failure to grab the chance. Asked about his batting position, Katich dropped a hint that the KKR skipper would use the Indian Premier League to showcase his skill set in pressure games. "I think what Dinesh brings in his experience (in crunch situations). He has played that role very well for India and for us. You know what you will get from him down the innings. He is hard to bowl to," Katich told reporters on Thursday. "So he will be in the mix for the World Cup. It will give the Indian selectors a tough job to pick with so much talent around," he added. He was all praise for young Shubman Gill, who, he though, will play across formats for India. "I am sure pretty soon he will be permanently in the Indian setup. He obviously has got talent and had a fantastic IPL last year." The former Australia left-handed batsman was happy that the team had a great limited-overs series in India. "Losing to India in Australia was tough for Australians to take. Full credit for the way they played. They deserved to win," said Katich. He was all praise for the top order. "The top order was outstanding especially Khawaja, Ashton Turner was great too. Ahead of World Cup, important decisions are there for the selectors to take. Having Smith and Warner back before World Cup gives us more confidence." The Australian team is peaking at the right time, felt Katich. "Their form hasn't been brilliant in the last few months but World Cup cricket is all about playing six weeks brilliantly," said Katich, who was an integral part of both Tests and ODI side during his playing days. "It doesn't matter what happened previously. It's all about performing under pressure situations in knockout style. Smith and Warner will be hungry. "They are hurt by the experience. What happened has happened. They will come back hungry and if they come back firing and rest of the boys are in form, then it will be good," he concluded.

Dinesh Karthik will play finisher's role as he is in WC mix: Assistant coach Katich

<p>Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to a stress fracture in his leg.</p>

<p>His absence will be a major blow to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are already reeling under pressure of having a weak bench strength.</p>

<p>The team is entering the XIth edition with only 19 players in its squad. &nbsp &nbsp</p>

<p>Starc was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping Rs 9.4 crores at the IPL Player Auction in Bengaluru in January this year.</p>

<p>The franchise will soon have to look up for a good option to replace the pacer.&nbsp</p>

<p>The injury has also kept Starc out of Australia's fourth and final Test against South Africa in Johannesburg today.&nbsp</p>

<p>Confirming the news, Cricket Australia (CA) took to their Twitter handle and wrote that the left-armer has sustained a tibial bone stress in his right leg and that he would now head home after the series for further injury investigation and assessment.</p>

<p>The 11th edition of the IPL will start from April 7.&nbsp</p>

<p>KKR are scheduled to play their opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 8.<br />
&nbsp</p>


The team is entering the XIth edition with only 19 players in its squad

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to a stress fracture in his leg. His absence will be a major blow to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are already reeling under pressure of having a weak bench strength. The team is entering the XIth edition with only 19 players in its squad. Starc was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping Rs 9.4 crores at the IPL Player Auction in Bengaluru in January this year. The franchise will soon have to look up for a good option to replace the pacer. The injury has also kept Starc out of Australia's fourth and final Test against South Africa in Johannesburg today. Confirming the news, Cricket Australia (CA) took to their Twitter handle and wrote that the left-armer has sustained a tibial bone stress in his right leg and that he would now head home after the series for further injury investigation and assessment. The 11th edition of the IPL will start from April 7. KKR are scheduled to play their opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 8.

IPL 2018: KKR's Mitchell Starc ruled out due to injury

<p>The last ten years of Indian Premier League (IPL) has given us some amazing rags-to-riches stories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>First played in 2008, the cash-rich tournament was never a welcome idea by many prominent cricketing personalities, but with every edition, the love for the league has only seen an upward scale.</p>

<p>As the XIth edition of the tournament is set to commence from April 7, here&#39;s another story of a passionate cricketer, who despite all odds managed to prove his skill and merit.</p>

<p>His name is Rinku Singh - son of an LPG cylinder delivery man.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-kkr-karthiks-knight-riders-36421" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Squad analysis of KKR &mdash; &#39;Karthik&#39;s Knight Riders&#39;</a></strong></p>

<p>The 20-year-old from Aligarh was sold to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for Rs 80 lakh - four times his base price of Rs 20 lakh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first time Rinku has been picked by a franchise as he was bought by the Kings XI Punjab for his base price of Rs 10 lakh in 2017.</p>

<p><strong>Also </strong><strong>read:</strong><strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-heres-the-full-schedule-and-timings-of-all-matches-36524" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Here&#39;s the full schedule and timings of all matches</a></strong></p>

<p>The left-hander lives with his family of nine inside an LPG Company compound.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While one of his five brothers drives an auto-rickshaw, another works at a tuition centre. His 16-year-old brother Jeetu also plays cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about his cricketing career, Rinku has represented Uttar Pradesh in all three formats of the game since making his T20 debut during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournament in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He has scored a total of 375 runs in 27 T20s at a strike rate of 133.45 and average of 19.73.</p>

<p>He shot to fame when he smashed 154 runs in a match at Agra, drawing early attention to his talent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He reinforced his abilities in 2014 during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he hit 206 and 154 runs in two matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He finally made it to the UP Ranji Trophy team in 2016 and recently played in Delhi.</p>

<p>The young player idols Suresh Raina and wants to emulate his inside-out shot.</p>

<p>Rinku next received a pair of gloves and bat gifted by Raina during their first interaction on the sidelines of his domestic debut.</p>

<p>Definitely, Rinku&#39;s journey to SRK&rsquo;s team is an achievement which will inspire many aspiring cricketers of his age.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The left-hander lives with his family of nine inside an LPG Company compound

The last ten years of Indian Premier League (IPL) has given us some amazing rags-to-riches stories. First played in 2008, the cash-rich tournament was never a welcome idea by many prominent cricketing personalities, but with every edition, the love for the league has only seen an upward scale. As the XIth edition of the tournament is set to commence from April 7, here's another story of a passionate cricketer, who despite all odds managed to prove his skill and merit. His name is Rinku Singh - son of an LPG cylinder delivery man. Also read: IPL 2018: Squad analysis of KKR — 'Karthik's Knight Riders' The 20-year-old from Aligarh was sold to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for Rs 80 lakh - four times his base price of Rs 20 lakh. This is not the first time Rinku has been picked by a franchise as he was bought by the Kings XI Punjab for his base price of Rs 10 lakh in 2017. Also read: IPL 2018: Here's the full schedule and timings of all matches The left-hander lives with his family of nine inside an LPG Company compound. While one of his five brothers drives an auto-rickshaw, another works at a tuition centre. His 16-year-old brother Jeetu also plays cricket. Talking about his cricketing career, Rinku has represented Uttar Pradesh in all three formats of the game since making his T20 debut during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournament in 2014. He has scored a total of 375 runs in 27 T20s at a strike rate of 133.45 and average of 19.73. He shot to fame when he smashed 154 runs in a match at Agra, drawing early attention to his talent. He reinforced his abilities in 2014 during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he hit 206 and 154 runs in two matches. He finally made it to the UP Ranji Trophy team in 2016 and recently played in Delhi. The young player idols Suresh Raina and wants to emulate his inside-out shot. Rinku next received a pair of gloves and bat gifted by Raina during their first interaction on the sidelines of his domestic debut. Definitely, Rinku's journey to SRK’s team is an achievement which will inspire many aspiring cricketers of his age.

IPL 2018: Meet Rinku Singh - A delivery man's son who is now KKR's 'Trump card'

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) and his Chennai Super Kings teammates are set to return to cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) after a gap of two years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the team worked hard to got back into the groove in training, the &#39;Yellow Brigade&#39; is also busy having loads of fun off the field.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ms-dhoni-sweats-it-out-in-nets-ahead-of-ipl-2018-36831" target="_blank">Watch: MS Dhoni sweats it out in nets ahead of IPL 2018</a></strong></p>

<p>In a series of videos uploaded by CSK on their Instagram and Twitter account, the Dhoni-led team can be seen shooting for a promotional video of their team for the cash-rich league, which commences on April 7.</p>

<p><strong>Also </strong><strong>read:</strong><strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-heres-the-full-schedule-and-timings-of-all-matches-36524" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Here&#39;s the full schedule and timings of all matches</a></strong></p>

<p>The video, which stars MS Dhoni and other CSK players, shows the captain dancing and celebrating with his teammates.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Chennai Super Happy Kings <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrustTheLeader?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrustTheLeader</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMuthootGroup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@themuthootgroup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://t.co/OUZ7bM36VV">pic.twitter.com/OUZ7bM36VV</a></p>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/977114327923773440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Another clip has been uploaded in form of a boomerang video showing Harbhajan Singh performing bhangra while sitting in an auto.&nbsp;</p>

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<div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">&nbsp;</div>
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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgpwLSkl50h/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">So much #Yellove! ????????</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chennaiipl/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Chennai Super Kings</a> (@chennaiipl) on <time datetime="2018-03-23T04:31:27+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 22, 2018 at 9:31pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>The CSK club also posted several photos of the players preparing for the commercial shoot. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Start moojik! <a href="https://t.co/PjDfPqMDce">pic.twitter.com/PjDfPqMDce</a></p>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/977094428077805568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That&#39;s how you do last minute revisions...total focus amidst chaos! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/sg4JY35AlS">pic.twitter.com/sg4JY35AlS</a></p>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/977070719631634432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">YelloAgain! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HomeSweetDen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HomeSweetDen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> ???????? <a href="https://t.co/By77JGC8sH">pic.twitter.com/By77JGC8sH</a></p>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/977044926839115776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shoot day and what better than the Filter Kaapi to start it with! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> ???? <a href="https://t.co/sT82vwVm4g">pic.twitter.com/sT82vwVm4g</a></p>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/977036416495439872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The IPL 2018 opening match will see defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) take on two-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK).</p>

<p>Dhoni has been the skipper of CSK for all eight seasons and the team saw its stars turn up for training including Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay, Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson and former Mumbai Indian Harbhajan Singh.</p>

<p>However, they will miss the services of another regular R Ashwin, who was not retained by the franchise.</p>

<p>Ashwin was brought by Kings XI Punjab at the IPL auctions in January and was also assigned the responsibility to lead the team in the upcoming edition.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The videos show the captain dancing and celebrating with his teammates

Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) and his Chennai Super Kings teammates are set to return to cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) after a gap of two years. While the team worked hard to got back into the groove in training, the 'Yellow Brigade' is also busy having loads of fun off the field. Also read: Watch: MS Dhoni sweats it out in nets ahead of IPL 2018 In a series of videos uploaded by CSK on their Instagram and Twitter account, the Dhoni-led team can be seen shooting for a promotional video of their team for the cash-rich league, which commences on April 7. Also read: IPL 2018: Here's the full schedule and timings of all matches The video, which stars MS Dhoni and other CSK players, shows the captain dancing and celebrating with his teammates. Chennai Super Happy Kings #TrustTheLeader! @themuthootgroup #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/OUZ7bM36VV — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 23, 2018 × Another clip has been uploaded in form of a boomerang video showing Harbhajan Singh performing bhangra while sitting in an auto. So much #Yellove! ???????? A post shared by Chennai Super Kings (@chennaiipl) on Mar 22, 2018 at 9:31pm PDT × The CSK club also posted several photos of the players preparing for the commercial shoot. Start moojik! pic.twitter.com/PjDfPqMDce — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 23, 2018 × That's how you do last minute revisions...total focus amidst chaos! #Thala @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/sg4JY35AlS — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 23, 2018 × YelloAgain! #HomeSweetDen #WhistlePodu ???????? pic.twitter.com/By77JGC8sH — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 23, 2018 × Shoot day and what better than the Filter Kaapi to start it with! #WhistlePodu ???? pic.twitter.com/sT82vwVm4g — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 23, 2018 × The IPL 2018 opening match will see defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) take on two-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Dhoni has been the skipper of CSK for all eight seasons and the team saw its stars turn up for training including Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay, Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson and former Mumbai Indian Harbhajan Singh. However, they will miss the services of another regular R Ashwin, who was not retained by the franchise. Ashwin was brought by Kings XI Punjab at the IPL auctions in January and was also assigned the responsibility to lead the team in the upcoming edition.

Watch: MS Dhoni, his Yellow Brigade shake a leg 'off the field' ahead of IPL 2018

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni doesn&#39;t want to leave any stone unturned to help his franchise win the Indian Premier League (IPL) title for the third time.</p>

<p>Chennai&#39;s favourite son, who will again be leading the side, on Thursday was seen sweating it out in the nets, days before the XIth edition of the cash rich-tournament kicks off on April 7.</p>

<p><strong>Also </strong><strong>read:</strong><strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-heres-the-full-schedule-and-timings-of-all-matches-36524" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Here&#39;s the full schedule and timings of all matches</a></strong></p>

<p>Dhoni was rested from India squad for the recently-concluded Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Get that ball back from the car parking please! - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HomeSweetDen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HomeSweetDen</a> ???????? <a href="https://t.co/D7mCwp7Poe">pic.twitter.com/D7mCwp7Poe</a></p>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/976825462126194688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The former captain&#39;s performance was, however, under scanner during South Africa tour, where India clinched the T20 and ODI series.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How&#39;s that for a cool off drive?! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HomeSweetDen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HomeSweetDen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://t.co/z85jVDHQwk">pic.twitter.com/z85jVDHQwk</a></p>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/976820578857508865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Dhoni has led CSK in all the eight seasons the club participated in. The team returns to the league after a gap of two years and the players as well as the fans are equally excited.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Joining Dhoni in their side&rsquo;s third title conquest are Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay, Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson and Harbhajan Singh among others.</p>

<p>The 11th edition of begins with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium.</p>

<p><strong>Team:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Retained:</strong><br />
MS Dhoni (15 cr)<br />
Suresh Raina (11 cr)<br />
Ravindra Jadeja (7 cr)<br />
<br />
<strong>Purchased:</strong><br />
Faf du Plessis (1.5 cr), Harbhajan Singh (2 cr), Dwayne Bravo (6.4 cr), Shane Watson (4 cr), Kedar Jadhav (7.8 cr), Ambati Rayudu (2.2 cr), Imran Tahir (1 cr), Karn Sharma (5 cr), Shardul Thakur (2.6 Cr), Jagadeesan Narayan (20L), Mitchell Santner (50L), Deepak Chahar (80L), KM Asif (40L), Lungi Ngidi (50 L), Kanishk Seth (20L), Dhruv Shorey (20L), M Vijay (2 cr), Sam Billings (1 cr), Mark Wood (1.5 cr), Kshitiz Sharma (20 L), Monu Singh (20L), Chaitanya Bishnoi (20L)<br />
(WION Web Team)</p>


Dhoni was rested from India squad for the recently-concluded Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni doesn't want to leave any stone unturned to help his franchise win the Indian Premier League (IPL) title for the third time. Chennai's favourite son, who will again be leading the side, on Thursday was seen sweating it out in the nets, days before the XIth edition of the cash rich-tournament kicks off on April 7. Also read: IPL 2018: Here's the full schedule and timings of all matches Dhoni was rested from India squad for the recently-concluded Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka. Get that ball back from the car parking please! - #Thala #HomeSweetDen ???????? pic.twitter.com/D7mCwp7Poe — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2018 × The former captain's performance was, however, under scanner during South Africa tour, where India clinched the T20 and ODI series. How's that for a cool off drive?! #Thala #HomeSweetDen #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/z85jVDHQwk — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2018 × Dhoni has led CSK in all the eight seasons the club participated in. The team returns to the league after a gap of two years and the players as well as the fans are equally excited. Joining Dhoni in their side’s third title conquest are Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay, Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson and Harbhajan Singh among others. The 11th edition of begins with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium. Team: Retained: MS Dhoni (15 cr) Suresh Raina (11 cr) Ravindra Jadeja (7 cr) Purchased: Faf du Plessis (1.5 cr), Harbhajan Singh (2 cr), Dwayne Bravo (6.4 cr), Shane Watson (4 cr), Kedar Jadhav (7.8 cr), Ambati Rayudu (2.2 cr), Imran Tahir (1 cr), Karn Sharma (5 cr), Shardul Thakur (2.6 Cr), Jagadeesan Narayan (20L), Mitchell Santner (50L), Deepak Chahar (80L), KM Asif (40L), Lungi Ngidi (50 L), Kanishk Seth (20L), Dhruv Shorey (20L), M Vijay (2 cr), Sam Billings (1 cr), Mark Wood (1.5 cr), Kshitiz Sharma (20 L), Monu Singh (20L), Chaitanya Bishnoi (20L) (WION Web Team)

Watch: MS Dhoni sweats it out in nets ahead of IPL 2018

<p>Several eyebrows were raised from different quarters when Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announced Dinesh Karthik as its new skipper, replacing Gautam Gambhir, for the XIth edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).</p>

<p>However, his splendid knock in recently concluded Nidahas Trophy, which took India to an impossible victory, has ended all the speculations being raised on his batting ability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His brilliant cameo of 29 runs off just 8 balls stole all the limelight as he hit a last-ball six to power India to a four-wicket win.</p>

<p>But in IPL, it will be Karthik&#39;s consistency to score runs and cricketing experience which KKR will be counting on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-time champions will be entering the upcoming edition with lightest squad of only 19 players making their way into the franchise.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-rajasthan-royals-the-prodigal-son-returns-36117" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Squad analysis of Rajasthan Royals, the prodigal son returns</a></strong></p>

<p>Hence, it would be fascinating to see how KKR performs under Karthik&#39;s leadership.</p>

<p>During the IPL auctions, Kolkata invested a lot on young uncapped talent, with India U-19 stars Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Shivam Mavi making their way to the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nagarkoti and Mavi impressed with their speeds in the ongoing U-19 World Cup and were bought by KKR for Rs 3.6 crore and Rs 3 crore respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from the two speedsters, KKR also bought U-19 top-order batsman Shubman Gill who scored three fifties in four matches at the U-19 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The franchise spent Rs 1.8 crore to buy his services for the upcoming season.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-ms-dhonis-yellow-brigade-35660" target="_blank"> IPL 2018: Squad analysis of MS Dhoni&#39;s &#39;Yellow Brigade&#39;</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the strength in the squad, once again, lies in the spin bowling department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The franchise retained West Indies off-spinner Sunil Narine, who became one of the key figures in the Gambhir era. With an uncanny ability to take wickets in crucial moments, Narine is surely one player on which the team can reply on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Narine, KKR also retained Piyush Chawla and Kuldeep Yadav via Right-to-Match which will further add to their spin bowling arsenal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another smart buy of KKR was batsman Chris Lynn. The Australian explosive was bought for Rs 9.6 crore and he can be a one-man army for the side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jamaican first-class cricketer Andre Russell will also remain Karthik&rsquo;s go-to option in this edition of the cash-rich tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the one gap which KKR failed to fill is of having any leadership figure in the squad. After Gambhir&rsquo;s departure, KKR should have looked for a player who can help the side get stability during crucial stages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dinesh Karthik current form is a positive development for the side but it will be interesting to see him perform the role of captain.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
Another loose area in the team is of having only 19 players in the squad, and with a long tournament in hand, a weak bench strength might cause troubles for them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even if one or two players pick up an injury, the side will find it hard to find replacements in the bench.</p>

<p>But overall, the side is strong on spin</p>

<p><strong>Retained:</strong><br />
Sunil Narine (12.5 cr)<br />
Andre Russell (8.5 cr)</p>

<p><strong>Purchased:</strong><br />
Mitchell Starc (9.4 cr), Chris Lynn (9.6 cr), Dinesh Karthik (7.4 cr), Robin Uthappa (6.4 cr), Piyush Chawla (4.2 cr), Kuldeep Yadav (5.8 cr), Shubman Gill (1.8 cr), Ishank Jaggi (20 L), Kamlesh Nagarkotti (3.2 cr), Nitish Rana (3.4 cr), Vinay Kumar (1 cr), Apoorv Wankhade (20 L), Rinku Singh (80 L), Shivam Mavi (3 cr), Mitchell Johnson (2 cr), Javon Searles (30 L), Cameron Delport (30 L)</p>

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<p>Born in Barbados, he has to complete seven-year residency period to debut for England cricket team (WION,Twitter)</p>
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His splendid knock in recently concluded Nidahas Trophy ended all the speculations

Several eyebrows were raised from different quarters when Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announced Dinesh Karthik as its new skipper, replacing Gautam Gambhir, for the XIth edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). However, his splendid knock in recently concluded Nidahas Trophy, which took India to an impossible victory, has ended all the speculations being raised on his batting ability. His brilliant cameo of 29 runs off just 8 balls stole all the limelight as he hit a last-ball six to power India to a four-wicket win. But in IPL, it will be Karthik's consistency to score runs and cricketing experience which KKR will be counting on. The two-time champions will be entering the upcoming edition with lightest squad of only 19 players making their way into the franchise. Also read: IPL 2018: Squad analysis of Rajasthan Royals, the prodigal son returns Hence, it would be fascinating to see how KKR performs under Karthik's leadership. During the IPL auctions, Kolkata invested a lot on young uncapped talent, with India U-19 stars Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Shivam Mavi making their way to the team. Nagarkoti and Mavi impressed with their speeds in the ongoing U-19 World Cup and were bought by KKR for Rs 3.6 crore and Rs 3 crore respectively. Apart from the two speedsters, KKR also bought U-19 top-order batsman Shubman Gill who scored three fifties in four matches at the U-19 World Cup. The franchise spent Rs 1.8 crore to buy his services for the upcoming season. Also read: IPL 2018: Squad analysis of MS Dhoni's 'Yellow Brigade' However, the strength in the squad, once again, lies in the spin bowling department. The franchise retained West Indies off-spinner Sunil Narine, who became one of the key figures in the Gambhir era. With an uncanny ability to take wickets in crucial moments, Narine is surely one player on which the team can reply on. After Narine, KKR also retained Piyush Chawla and Kuldeep Yadav via Right-to-Match which will further add to their spin bowling arsenal. Another smart buy of KKR was batsman Chris Lynn. The Australian explosive was bought for Rs 9.6 crore and he can be a one-man army for the side. Jamaican first-class cricketer Andre Russell will also remain Karthik’s go-to option in this edition of the cash-rich tournament. Meanwhile, the one gap which KKR failed to fill is of having any leadership figure in the squad. After Gambhir’s departure, KKR should have looked for a player who can help the side get stability during crucial stages. Dinesh Karthik current form is a positive development for the side but it will be interesting to see him perform the role of captain. Another loose area in the team is of having only 19 players in the squad, and with a long tournament in hand, a weak bench strength might cause troubles for them. Even if one or two players pick up an injury, the side will find it hard to find replacements in the bench. But overall, the side is strong on spin Retained: Sunil Narine (12.5 cr) Andre Russell (8.5 cr) Purchased: Mitchell Starc (9.4 cr), Chris Lynn (9.6 cr), Dinesh Karthik (7.4 cr), Robin Uthappa (6.4 cr), Piyush Chawla (4.2 cr), Kuldeep Yadav (5.8 cr), Shubman Gill (1.8 cr), Ishank Jaggi (20 L), Kamlesh Nagarkotti (3.2 cr), Nitish Rana (3.4 cr), Vinay Kumar (1 cr), Apoorv Wankhade (20 L), Rinku Singh (80 L), Shivam Mavi (3 cr), Mitchell Johnson (2 cr), Javon Searles (30 L), Cameron Delport (30 L) Born in Barbados, he has to complete seven-year residency period to debut for England cricket team (WION,Twitter) ×

IPL 2018: Squad analysis of KKR — 'Karthik's Knight Riders'

<p>With just over two weeks left for the XIth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to start, the opener will be played between defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) and two-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK).&nbsp;</p>

<p>CSK, which is making a comeback after facing suspension for two years-2016, 2017, will once again be playing under his most-popular player and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD).</p>

<p>The IPL matches will be played at nine venues, across 51 days from April 7 to May 27, 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2018-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-653" target="_blank">IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list</a></strong></p>

<p>Mumbai&#39;s Wankhede Stadium will be hosting the final this time around between the winner of Qualifier 1 and the winner of Qualifier 2, on May 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here&#39;s the complete list of VIVO IPL 2018 matches&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>7 April (Saturday), Mumbai Indians v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm</p>

<p>8 April (Sunday): Delhi Daredevils v Kings XI Punjab, 4 pm<br />
8 April (Sunday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm</p>

<p>9 April (Monday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm</p>

<p>10 April (Tuesday): Chennai Super Kings v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm</p>

<p>11 April (Wednesday): Rajasthan Royals v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm</p>

<p>12 April (Thursday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm</p>

<p>13 April (Friday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-kkr-karthiks-knight-riders-36421" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Squad analysis of KKR &mdash; &#39;Karthik&#39;s Knight Riders&#39;</a></strong></p>

<p>14 April (Saturday): Mumbai Indians v Delhi Daredevils, 4 pm<br />
14 April (Saturday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm</p>

<p>15 April (Sunday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Rajasthan Royals, 4 pm<br />
15 April (Sunday): Kings XI Punjab v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm</p>

<p>16 April (Monday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm</p>

<p>17 April (Tuesday): Mumbai Indians v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm</p>

<p>18 April (Wednesday): Rajasthan Royals v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm</p>

<p>19 April (Thursday): Kings XI Punjab v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm</p>

<p>20 April (Friday): Chennai Super Kings v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm</p>

<p>21 April (Saturday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Kings XI Punjab, 4 pm<br />
21 April (Saturday): Delhi Daredevils v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm</p>

<p>22 April (Sunday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Chennai Super Kings, 4 pm<br />
22 April (Sunday): Rajasthan Royals v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm</p>

<p>23 April (Monday): Kings XI Punjab v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm</p>

<p>24 April (Tuesday): Mumbai Indians v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm</p>

<p>25 April (Wednesday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm</p>

<p>26 April (Thursday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm</p>

<p>27 April (Friday): Delhi Daredevils v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm</p>

<p>28 April (Saturday): Chennai Super Kings v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm</p>

<p>29 April (Sunday): Rajasthan Royals v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 4 pm<br />
29 April (Sunday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-rajasthan-royals-the-prodigal-son-returns-36117" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Squad analysis of Rajasthan Royals, the prodigal son returns</a></strong></p>

<p>30 April (Monday): Chennai Super Kings v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm</p>

<p>1 May (Tuesday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm</p>

<p>2 May (Wednesday): Delhi Daredevils v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm</p>

<p>3 May (Thursday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm</p>

<p>4 May (Friday): Kings XI Punjab v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm</p>

<p>5 May (Saturday): Chennai Super Kings v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 4 pm<br />
5 May (Saturday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm</p>

<p>6 May (Sunday): Mumbai Indians v Kolkata Knight Riders, 4 pm<br />
6 May (Sunday): Kings XI Punjab v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm</p>

<p>7 May (Monday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm</p>

<p>8 May (Tuesday): Rajasthan Royals v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm</p>

<p>9 May (Wednesday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm</p>

<p>10 May (Thursday): Delhi Daredevils v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm</p>

<p>11 May (Friday): Rajasthan Royals v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm</p>

<p>12 May (Saturday): Kings XI Punjab v Kolkata Knight Riders, 4 pm<br />
12 May (Saturday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm</p>

<p>13 May (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 4 pm<br />
13 May (Sunday): Mumbai Indians v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm</p>

<p>14 May (Monday): Kings XI Punjab v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm</p>

<p>15 May (Tuesday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm</p>

<p>16 May (Wednesday): Mumbai Indians v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm</p>

<p>17 May (Thursday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm</p>

<p>18 May (Friday): Delhi Daredevils v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm</p>

<p>19 May (Saturday): Rajasthan Royals v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 4 pm<br />
19 May (Saturday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm</p>

<p>20 May (Sunday): Delhi Daredevils v Mumbai Indians, 4 pm<br />
20 May (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm</p>

<p><strong>IPL 2018 &ndash; Playoffs</strong></p>

<p>22 May (Tuesday): Qualifier 1, 8 pm, Mumbai</p>

<p>23 May (Wednesday): Eliminator, 8 pm, TBC</p>

<p>25 May (Friday): Qualifier 2, 8 pm, TBC</p>

<p>27 May (Sunday): Final, 8 pm, Mumbai</p>

<p>The upcoming edition of the cash-rich league will feature 12 matches that will be played at 4:00 PM IST and 48 matches will start at 8:00 PM IST.</p>


The IPL matches will be played at nine venues, across 51 days

With just over two weeks left for the XIth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to start, the opener will be played between defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) and two-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK). CSK, which is making a comeback after facing suspension for two years-2016, 2017, will once again be playing under his most-popular player and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD). The IPL matches will be played at nine venues, across 51 days from April 7 to May 27, 2018. Also read: IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium will be hosting the final this time around between the winner of Qualifier 1 and the winner of Qualifier 2, on May 27. Here's the complete list of VIVO IPL 2018 matches 7 April (Saturday), Mumbai Indians v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm 8 April (Sunday): Delhi Daredevils v Kings XI Punjab, 4 pm 8 April (Sunday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm 9 April (Monday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm 10 April (Tuesday): Chennai Super Kings v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm 11 April (Wednesday): Rajasthan Royals v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm 12 April (Thursday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm 13 April (Friday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm Also read: IPL 2018: Squad analysis of KKR — 'Karthik's Knight Riders' 14 April (Saturday): Mumbai Indians v Delhi Daredevils, 4 pm 14 April (Saturday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm 15 April (Sunday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Rajasthan Royals, 4 pm 15 April (Sunday): Kings XI Punjab v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm 16 April (Monday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm 17 April (Tuesday): Mumbai Indians v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm 18 April (Wednesday): Rajasthan Royals v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm 19 April (Thursday): Kings XI Punjab v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm 20 April (Friday): Chennai Super Kings v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm 21 April (Saturday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Kings XI Punjab, 4 pm 21 April (Saturday): Delhi Daredevils v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm 22 April (Sunday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Chennai Super Kings, 4 pm 22 April (Sunday): Rajasthan Royals v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm 23 April (Monday): Kings XI Punjab v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm 24 April (Tuesday): Mumbai Indians v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm 25 April (Wednesday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm 26 April (Thursday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm 27 April (Friday): Delhi Daredevils v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm 28 April (Saturday): Chennai Super Kings v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm 29 April (Sunday): Rajasthan Royals v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 4 pm 29 April (Sunday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm Also read: IPL 2018: Squad analysis of Rajasthan Royals, the prodigal son returns 30 April (Monday): Chennai Super Kings v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm 1 May (Tuesday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm 2 May (Wednesday): Delhi Daredevils v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm 3 May (Thursday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm 4 May (Friday): Kings XI Punjab v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm 5 May (Saturday): Chennai Super Kings v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 4 pm 5 May (Saturday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm 6 May (Sunday): Mumbai Indians v Kolkata Knight Riders, 4 pm 6 May (Sunday): Kings XI Punjab v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm 7 May (Monday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm 8 May (Tuesday): Rajasthan Royals v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm 9 May (Wednesday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Mumbai Indians, 8 pm 10 May (Thursday): Delhi Daredevils v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm 11 May (Friday): Rajasthan Royals v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm 12 May (Saturday): Kings XI Punjab v Kolkata Knight Riders, 4 pm 12 May (Saturday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Delhi Daredevils, 8 pm 13 May (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 4 pm 13 May (Sunday): Mumbai Indians v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm 14 May (Monday): Kings XI Punjab v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 8 pm 15 May (Tuesday): Kolkata Knight Riders v Rajasthan Royals, 8 pm 16 May (Wednesday): Mumbai Indians v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm 17 May (Thursday): Royal Challengers Bangalore v Sunrisers Hyderabad, 8 pm 18 May (Friday): Delhi Daredevils v Chennai Super Kings, 8 pm 19 May (Saturday): Rajasthan Royals v Royal Challengers Bangalore, 4 pm 19 May (Saturday): Sunrisers Hyderabad v Kolkata Knight Riders, 8 pm 20 May (Sunday): Delhi Daredevils v Mumbai Indians, 4 pm 20 May (Sunday): Chennai Super Kings v Kings XI Punjab, 8 pm IPL 2018 – Playoffs 22 May (Tuesday): Qualifier 1, 8 pm, Mumbai 23 May (Wednesday): Eliminator, 8 pm, TBC 25 May (Friday): Qualifier 2, 8 pm, TBC 27 May (Sunday): Final, 8 pm, Mumbai The upcoming edition of the cash-rich league will feature 12 matches that will be played at 4:00 PM IST and 48 matches will start at 8:00 PM IST.

IPL 2018: Here's the full schedule and timings of all matches

<p>The prince of Kolkata Sourav Ganguly is in the news again. His autobiography &ldquo;A Century Is Not Enough&rdquo; is out.</p>

<p>As far as the title of the book goes, it seems that he was inspired by ex-diplomat Kunwar Natwar Singh, who released his autobiography a few years back with the title &ldquo;One Life Is Not Enough&rdquo;. But barring title it is a different stuff altogether.</p>

<p>Though I yet to read the book but have read many reviews of it and got to know about it to the considerable extent. As you read in one of the reviews of the book, you may love Sourav or despise him but you have to accept that he has been one of the most impactful players in the Indian Cricket in the recent decades.</p>

<p>Sourav Ganguly is the man with strong conviction &ndash; &ldquo;I am like this only, leave me or take me&rdquo; sort of. When Ganguly is telling the world about his life and career through his book, for someone like me who had followed his career from end-to-end, it becomes quite important to recall salient moments of his career. &nbsp;</p>

<p>When Ganguly was selected for the tri-series in Australia in 1991-92, all we thought that he was a budding cricketer, son of an influential cricket administrator, who was pushed to international arena quite prematurely. Since he was with the side for the months (remember each side played eight group matches in that series), he was given a chance in an ODI (his debut match for India) against West Indies. It was a forgettable show; Ganguly was dropped and forgotten.</p>

<p>We hardly noticed him for the next 4 &frac12; years, until his name was announced (rather unexpectedly) for the tour of England in the summer of 1996. He and Rahul Dravid grabbed the places vacated by Vinod Kambli and Sanjay Manjrekar in the middle order with both the hands.</p>

<p>Sourav Ganguly scored back to back centuries and attained cult status instantaneously. &nbsp;Over the next few years, he pipped Rahul Dravid for the claim of captaincy as Ganguly was an undisputed member of ODI team as well, which Dravid wasn&rsquo;t during 1997-98.</p>

<p>One thing Ganguly established right in the beginning of his career that he was extremely fluent batsman; the god of offside as he was described once. He, along with Tendulkar, was one of the most successful ODI opening pairs in the history. He played many great knocks in ODIs but the one at Taunton (he scored 183) against Sri Lanka in a World Cup match deserves a special mention.</p>

<p>Ganguly had a dream run as Indian skipper during 2000-05. True that he had batsmen like Tendulkar, Dravid and Laxman at his disposal but still plenty of credit for the resurrection of the team goes to the fearless and aggressive leadership of Ganguly. During his period at the helm, Ganguly was handling both veterans and newcomers quite well. Remember Tendulkar was almost seven years his senior in Test seniority. Ganguly was audacious. He has admitted that one of the toughest tasks for him was to tell Anil Kumble during an overseas tour once that Kumble was not making the cut into the playing eleven. Ganguly must be in an awkward situation considering Kumble made his Test debut six years before Ganguly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ganguly has praised MS Dhoni unequivocally in his book and very subtly took the credit of given Dhoni to the nation. As such the claim Ganguly has made is correct. It was Ganguly who put the final stamp on Dhoni&rsquo;s inclusion in team India in 2004 and he promoted him up in the batting order in that famous Vizag ODI against Pakistan. Dhoni slammed a century and rest is history. During his last Test match in 2008 against Australia, as a mark for respect, Dhoni asked Ganguly to lead the side when India was fielding. Ganguly has well acknowledged that goodwill gesture in his book.</p>

<p>Apart from Dhoni, Ganguly handled newcomers very well. He played a major role in shaping career of Sehwag, Harbhajan and Zaheer Khan in their initial days.</p>

<p>In his book, Ganguly had given sufficient coverage to his feud with Greg Chappel. It was a forgettable episode of Ganguly&rsquo;s career. Ganguly has mentioned that he had some other impression of Chappel (a positive impression) when he met him in Australia but things were entirely different when Chappel joined team India as the coach.</p>

<p>Sourav is free to have his take on the episode but he could have probably handled the whole issue is the more mature way. The spat went dirty beyond limits, which affected Ganguly&rsquo;s career as well.</p>

<p>But this is the way Ganguly has been, outspoken and with great conviction about his actions. In later years, he teamed up with Shahrukh Khan for KKR when IPL started in 2008. But partnerships fell flat soon. Ganguly has covered this well in his book.</p>

<p>Sourav Ganguly had a roller coaster career during 1996-2008 for India and for IPL thereafter for few years. His autobiography must be a good read for Cricket freak and hope it is as slick as his batting used to be.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


When Ganguly is telling the world about his life and career through his autobiography, for his fans who have followed his career from end-to-end, it becomes quite important to recall the salient moments of his career.

The prince of Kolkata Sourav Ganguly is in the news again. His autobiography “A Century Is Not Enough” is out. As far as the title of the book goes, it seems that he was inspired by ex-diplomat Kunwar Natwar Singh, who released his autobiography a few years back with the title “One Life Is Not Enough”. But barring title it is a different stuff altogether. Though I yet to read the book but have read many reviews of it and got to know about it to the considerable extent. As you read in one of the reviews of the book, you may love Sourav or despise him but you have to accept that he has been one of the most impactful players in the Indian Cricket in the recent decades. Sourav Ganguly is the man with strong conviction – “I am like this only, leave me or take me” sort of. When Ganguly is telling the world about his life and career through his book, for someone like me who had followed his career from end-to-end, it becomes quite important to recall salient moments of his career. When Ganguly was selected for the tri-series in Australia in 1991-92, all we thought that he was a budding cricketer, son of an influential cricket administrator, who was pushed to international arena quite prematurely. Since he was with the side for the months (remember each side played eight group matches in that series), he was given a chance in an ODI (his debut match for India) against West Indies. It was a forgettable show; Ganguly was dropped and forgotten. We hardly noticed him for the next 4 ½ years, until his name was announced (rather unexpectedly) for the tour of England in the summer of 1996. He and Rahul Dravid grabbed the places vacated by Vinod Kambli and Sanjay Manjrekar in the middle order with both the hands. Sourav Ganguly scored back to back centuries and attained cult status instantaneously. Over the next few years, he pipped Rahul Dravid for the claim of captaincy as Ganguly was an undisputed member of ODI team as well, which Dravid wasn’t during 1997-98. One thing Ganguly established right in the beginning of his career that he was extremely fluent batsman; the god of offside as he was described once. He, along with Tendulkar, was one of the most successful ODI opening pairs in the history. He played many great knocks in ODIs but the one at Taunton (he scored 183) against Sri Lanka in a World Cup match deserves a special mention. Ganguly had a dream run as Indian skipper during 2000-05. True that he had batsmen like Tendulkar, Dravid and Laxman at his disposal but still plenty of credit for the resurrection of the team goes to the fearless and aggressive leadership of Ganguly. During his period at the helm, Ganguly was handling both veterans and newcomers quite well. Remember Tendulkar was almost seven years his senior in Test seniority. Ganguly was audacious. He has admitted that one of the toughest tasks for him was to tell Anil Kumble during an overseas tour once that Kumble was not making the cut into the playing eleven. Ganguly must be in an awkward situation considering Kumble made his Test debut six years before Ganguly. Ganguly has praised MS Dhoni unequivocally in his book and very subtly took the credit of given Dhoni to the nation. As such the claim Ganguly has made is correct. It was Ganguly who put the final stamp on Dhoni’s inclusion in team India in 2004 and he promoted him up in the batting order in that famous Vizag ODI against Pakistan. Dhoni slammed a century and rest is history. During his last Test match in 2008 against Australia, as a mark for respect, Dhoni asked Ganguly to lead the side when India was fielding. Ganguly has well acknowledged that goodwill gesture in his book. Apart from Dhoni, Ganguly handled newcomers very well. He played a major role in shaping career of Sehwag, Harbhajan and Zaheer Khan in their initial days. In his book, Ganguly had given sufficient coverage to his feud with Greg Chappel. It was a forgettable episode of Ganguly’s career. Ganguly has mentioned that he had some other impression of Chappel (a positive impression) when he met him in Australia but things were entirely different when Chappel joined team India as the coach. Sourav is free to have his take on the episode but he could have probably handled the whole issue is the more mature way. The spat went dirty beyond limits, which affected Ganguly’s career as well. But this is the way Ganguly has been, outspoken and with great conviction about his actions. In later years, he teamed up with Shahrukh Khan for KKR when IPL started in 2008. But partnerships fell flat soon. Ganguly has covered this well in his book. Sourav Ganguly had a roller coaster career during 1996-2008 for India and for IPL thereafter for few years. His autobiography must be a good read for Cricket freak and hope it is as slick as his batting used to be. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Sourav Ganguly gets candid with his autobiography, 'A Century Is Not Enough'

<p>The 11th edition of Indian Premier League is set to start from April 7, 2018, with a glitzy opening ceremony at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first match will be played here only between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, which&nbsp;marked their return after a two-year ban.</p>

<p>On Monday, IPL has launched their anthem song which is based on the tune of an iconic song, &quot;Ye Desh Hai Veer Jawano Ka, Albelo Ka Mastano Ka...&quot;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Watch the video here:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The wait is finally over! The much anticipated <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> 2018 anthem is here, heralding the face-off of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BestvsBest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BestvsBest</a>! Is khel ka yaaron kya kehna! <a href="https://t.co/MgpvoJVjYC">pic.twitter.com/MgpvoJVjYC</a></p>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/973204655256756226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The lyrics of the anthem is, &quot;Ye Khel Hai Sher Jawano Ka Albelo Ka Mastano Ka...&quot; is sung by music director Raajeev V Bhalla and vocalist Siddharth Basrur.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2018-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-653#photo-36184">IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list</a></strong></p>

<p>The video of the anthem has many happy moments of previous IPL seasons and it is campaigning &quot;#bestvsbest&quot;</p>

<p>The original song is from the movie &#39;Naya Daur&#39; which was released in 1957. The song was sung by a singing stalwart, Mohammad Rafi and was pictured on veteran actor Dilip Kumar and Vyjayanthimala.</p>

<p>The beats of this song are very energetic and do have dance-inducing lyrics.</p>

<p>Apart from being the favourite wedding dance, this tune will now become the heartbeat of IPL fans.</p>

<p><em>Watch the original song:</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Apart from being the favourite wedding dance, this tune will now become the heartbeat of IPL fans

The 11th edition of Indian Premier League is set to start from April 7, 2018, with a glitzy opening ceremony at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The first match will be played here only between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, which marked their return after a two-year ban. On Monday, IPL has launched their anthem song which is based on the tune of an iconic song, "Ye Desh Hai Veer Jawano Ka, Albelo Ka Mastano Ka..." Watch the video here: The wait is finally over! The much anticipated #VIVOIPL 2018 anthem is here, heralding the face-off of the #BestvsBest! Is khel ka yaaron kya kehna! pic.twitter.com/MgpvoJVjYC — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 12, 2018 × The lyrics of the anthem is, "Ye Khel Hai Sher Jawano Ka Albelo Ka Mastano Ka..." is sung by music director Raajeev V Bhalla and vocalist Siddharth Basrur. IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list The video of the anthem has many happy moments of previous IPL seasons and it is campaigning "#bestvsbest" The original song is from the movie 'Naya Daur' which was released in 1957. The song was sung by a singing stalwart, Mohammad Rafi and was pictured on veteran actor Dilip Kumar and Vyjayanthimala. The beats of this song are very energetic and do have dance-inducing lyrics. Apart from being the favourite wedding dance, this tune will now become the heartbeat of IPL fans. Watch the original song: ×

2018 IPL anthem: 'Ye khel hai sher jawano ka albelo ka mastano ka...'

<p>Former Kolkata Knightriders skipper Gautam Gambhir, 36, was today appointed as the captain of rival Delhi Daredevils team in the Indian Premier League(IPL) due to begin next month.</p>

<p>Gambhir who led Kolkata Knight&nbsp;Riders(KKR) to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014 was brought over by his former team Delhi Daredevils for 2.8 crore during the latest auction.</p>

<p>A Delhi player, Gambhir played for his home state in the first few IPL season before being brought over an appointed captain of Shah Rukh Khan-led Kolkata Knightriders.</p>

<p>However, KKR did not bid for Gambhir in the latest auction allowing Delhi to lap him up even though he was KKR&#39;s leading run-getter in the IPL.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


A Delhi player, Gambhir played for his home state in the first few IPL season

Former Kolkata Knightriders skipper Gautam Gambhir, 36, was today appointed as the captain of rival Delhi Daredevils team in the Indian Premier League(IPL) due to begin next month. Gambhir who led Kolkata Knight Riders(KKR) to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014 was brought over by his former team Delhi Daredevils for 2.8 crore during the latest auction. A Delhi player, Gambhir played for his home state in the first few IPL season before being brought over an appointed captain of Shah Rukh Khan-led Kolkata Knightriders. However, KKR did not bid for Gambhir in the latest auction allowing Delhi to lap him up even though he was KKR's leading run-getter in the IPL.

IPL: Gautam Gambhir appointed Delhi Daredevils captain

<p>Wicketkeeper-batsman, Dinesh Karthik has been appointed as the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders for the upcoming 11th edition of Indian Premier League.</p>

<p>He was purchased by KKR at an amount of INR 7.4 Cr. and was one of the expensive buys of the team. Robin Uthappa has been named as the vice-captain.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Drumrolls! ????<br />
Experienced wicket-keeper batsman, <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DineshKarthik</a> will lead the men in Purple and Gold for VIVO <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> 2018. ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRKaCaptainKaun?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRKaCaptainKaun</a> <a href="https://t.co/558Nkgpj9F">pic.twitter.com/558Nkgpj9F</a></p>
&mdash; KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/970148536355471360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>KKR gave a shocker when they did not retain their star performer Gautam Gambhir, who led the team to great heights in all its previous seasons but preferred two West Indies players, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell. Gambhir then was taken by Delhi Daredevils in the auction as the Delhi&#39;s skipper.</p>

<p>On receiving the honour Dinesh Kartik said, &quot;Its a massive opportunity for me personally, I am very very happy, really excited because its a massive franchise to got this honour and rolled to be the captain of this team.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;Its a very young side, there are few very interesting talents from India U-19 we have picked up,&quot; he said about the team.</p>

<p>He further added, &quot;I am looking forward to meeting them, interacting with them and getting the best out of them.&quot;</p>

<p>Watch his reaction here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here&#39;s a message for all <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KnightRiders?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KnightRiders</a> from our Captain, <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DineshKarthik</a> ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://t.co/MNAvDM4tHp">pic.twitter.com/MNAvDM4tHp</a></p>
&mdash; KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/970164597658304512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, Karthik had played for Gujarat Lions, Mumbai Indians, Kings XI Punjab, Delhi Daredevils and Royal Challengers Bangalore. He has an aggregate of 2903 runs at a strike rate of 125.94 in his IPL career of 152 matches.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">???? <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> talks about the expectations from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Knight?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Knight</a> who&#39;ll be in charge to lead the troops.<br />
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&lsquo;Watch the unveiling of the next KKR captain, only on <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> at 9 AM today.&#39; ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/0CEuVy9Jci">pic.twitter.com/0CEuVy9Jci</a></p>
&mdash; KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/970121182681821184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Robin Uthappa has been named as the vice-captain

Wicketkeeper-batsman, Dinesh Karthik has been appointed as the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders for the upcoming 11th edition of Indian Premier League. He was purchased by KKR at an amount of INR 7.4 Cr. and was one of the expensive buys of the team. Robin Uthappa has been named as the vice-captain. Drumrolls! ???? Experienced wicket-keeper batsman, @DineshKarthik will lead the men in Purple and Gold for VIVO @IPL 2018. ????#KorboLorboJeetbo #KKRKaCaptainKaun pic.twitter.com/558Nkgpj9F — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) March 4, 2018 × KKR gave a shocker when they did not retain their star performer Gautam Gambhir, who led the team to great heights in all its previous seasons but preferred two West Indies players, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell. Gambhir then was taken by Delhi Daredevils in the auction as the Delhi's skipper. On receiving the honour Dinesh Kartik said, "Its a massive opportunity for me personally, I am very very happy, really excited because its a massive franchise to got this honour and rolled to be the captain of this team." "Its a very young side, there are few very interesting talents from India U-19 we have picked up," he said about the team. He further added, "I am looking forward to meeting them, interacting with them and getting the best out of them." Watch his reaction here: Here's a message for all #KnightRiders from our Captain, @DineshKarthik ????#KorboLorboJeetbo pic.twitter.com/MNAvDM4tHp — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) March 4, 2018 × Earlier, Karthik had played for Gujarat Lions, Mumbai Indians, Kings XI Punjab, Delhi Daredevils and Royal Challengers Bangalore. He has an aggregate of 2903 runs at a strike rate of 125.94 in his IPL career of 152 matches. ???? @SGanguly99 talks about the expectations from the #Knight who'll be in charge to lead the troops. ‘Watch the unveiling of the next KKR captain, only on @StarSportsIndia at 9 AM today.' ????#KorboLorboJeetbo #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/0CEuVy9Jci — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) March 4, 2018 ×

Dinesh Karthik to lead Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2018

<p>Juhi Chawla&#39;s daughter, unlike other star kids, maintains a low public profile. Which is why, when Jahnavi Mehta, Juhi and Jay Mehta&#39;s, attended the IPL auctions along with her parents and bid for players for their team Kolkata Knight Riders, everybody took note.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
All of 17, Jahnavi was the youngest person to be at the IPL auction table, helped KKR officials and her parents in taking quick decisions during the auction. The young teenager even left Kings XI&#39;s owner, actress Preity Zinta impressed. Preity took to Twitter to share her thoughts on the young girl and wrote, &quot;Forget the madness of the #VivoIPLAuction- it&rsquo;s awesome to meet the super smart Janvi Mehta who gave me a run for our money #smartgirlsrock(sic).&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Forget the madness of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VivoIPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VivoIPLAuction</a>- it&rsquo;s awesome to meet the super smart Janvi Mehta who gave me a run for our money???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/smartgirlsrock?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#smartgirlsrock</a> <a href="https://t.co/fi0bnHddVC">pic.twitter.com/fi0bnHddVC</a></p>
&mdash; Preity zinta (@realpreityzinta) <a href="https://twitter.com/realpreityzinta/status/957245400154427393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Juhi Chawla sent Preity love and responded to her tweet with a &#39;Thank you&#39;.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You&#39;re a sweetheart! Bright, beautiful and a bundle of joy! Thank you for being so kind to Jahnavi ???? <a href="https://t.co/N87Z7qscAJ">https://t.co/N87Z7qscAJ</a></p>
&mdash; Juhi Chawla (@iam_juhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/iam_juhi/status/957694509214846976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At the <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> auction , <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> CEO <a href="https://twitter.com/VenkyMysore?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VenkyMysore</a> with my daughter Jahnavi &amp; our team so far ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/cdKLtwWXDH">pic.twitter.com/cdKLtwWXDH</a></p>
&mdash; Juhi Chawla (@iam_juhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/iam_juhi/status/957575128153493506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The masterminds behind planning &amp; building our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KnightsOf2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KnightsOf2018</a> squad! ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ttm0AOgEmO">pic.twitter.com/Ttm0AOgEmO</a></p>
&mdash; KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/957572937711738880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Jahnavi&#39;s proud father, Jay Mehta shared that it felt good to involve his daughter as she belonged to the younger generation and they were looking at building a young team for KKR for the coming three years.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BeeqBt7hL3Y/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Jhanvi Mehta, the youngest member at the VIVO #IPLAuction auction table history, talks about her experience and picking up the big hitting, @lynny_50 back into the side. ???? More in this exclusive ???? #KorboLorboJeetbo #KnightsOf2018 #IPLAuction #CricketMeriJaan #mi #mumbaiindians #cricket #ipl #t20 #kxip #ipl #iplauction #ipl2018 #auction #bcci #icc #cricket #update #csk #rr #dd #kkr #srh #rcb #mi #rr #sports #lovecricket #livecricket #cricket #T20 #ipl #IPLAuction #ipl2018 #season11 #indian_cricket #indian #BCCI</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ipl_xi/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> IPL11</a> (@ipl_xi) on <time datetime="2018-01-28T04:03:17+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 27, 2018 at 8:03pm PST</time></p>
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<p>The young girl was a topper in her school in Dhirubhai Ambani International School in Mumbai and is currently studying in England. Juhi, in an earlier interview, had mentioned that her daughter is not keen to act but instead wants to be a writer.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BXwzqNqn-HW/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Can&#39;t believe my brilliant little girl ..!!!! ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????so proud of her ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iamjuhichawla/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Juhi Chawla</a> (@iamjuhichawla) on <time datetime="2017-08-14T05:33:16+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Aug 13, 2017 at 10:33pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Well, going by how she impressed one and all at the recent auction, looks like the kid has a very bright future.&nbsp;</p>


Jahnavi Mehta even impressed Preity Zinta.

Juhi Chawla's daughter, unlike other star kids, maintains a low public profile. Which is why, when Jahnavi Mehta, Juhi and Jay Mehta's, attended the IPL auctions along with her parents and bid for players for their team Kolkata Knight Riders, everybody took note. All of 17, Jahnavi was the youngest person to be at the IPL auction table, helped KKR officials and her parents in taking quick decisions during the auction. The young teenager even left Kings XI's owner, actress Preity Zinta impressed. Preity took to Twitter to share her thoughts on the young girl and wrote, "Forget the madness of the #VivoIPLAuction- it’s awesome to meet the super smart Janvi Mehta who gave me a run for our money #smartgirlsrock(sic)." Forget the madness of the #VivoIPLAuction- it’s awesome to meet the super smart Janvi Mehta who gave me a run for our money???? #smartgirlsrock pic.twitter.com/fi0bnHddVC — Preity zinta (@realpreityzinta) January 27, 2018 × Juhi Chawla sent Preity love and responded to her tweet with a 'Thank you'. You're a sweetheart! Bright, beautiful and a bundle of joy! Thank you for being so kind to Jahnavi ???? https://t.co/N87Z7qscAJ — Juhi Chawla (@iam_juhi) January 28, 2018 × At the @IPL auction , @KKRiders CEO @VenkyMysore with my daughter Jahnavi & our team so far ???? #IPLAuction #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/cdKLtwWXDH — Juhi Chawla (@iam_juhi) January 28, 2018 × The masterminds behind planning & building our #KnightsOf2018 squad! ????#KorboLorboJeetbo #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/Ttm0AOgEmO — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) January 28, 2018 × Jahnavi's proud father, Jay Mehta shared that it felt good to involve his daughter as she belonged to the younger generation and they were looking at building a young team for KKR for the coming three years. Jhanvi Mehta, the youngest member at the VIVO #IPLAuction auction table history, talks about her experience and picking up the big hitting, @lynny_50 back into the side. ???? More in this exclusive ???? #KorboLorboJeetbo #KnightsOf2018 #IPLAuction #CricketMeriJaan #mi #mumbaiindians #cricket #ipl #t20 #kxip #ipl #iplauction #ipl2018 #auction #bcci #icc #cricket #update #csk #rr #dd #kkr #srh #rcb #mi #rr #sports #lovecricket #livecricket #cricket #T20 #ipl #IPLAuction #ipl2018 #season11 #indian_cricket #indian #BCCI A post shared by IPL11 (@ipl_xi) on Jan 27, 2018 at 8:03pm PST × The young girl was a topper in her school in Dhirubhai Ambani International School in Mumbai and is currently studying in England. Juhi, in an earlier interview, had mentioned that her daughter is not keen to act but instead wants to be a writer. Can't believe my brilliant little girl ..!!!! ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????so proud of her ???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? A post shared by Juhi Chawla (@iamjuhichawla) on Aug 13, 2017 at 10:33pm PDT × Well, going by how she impressed one and all at the recent auction, looks like the kid has a very bright future.

New kid on the block: Juhi Chawla's daughter Jahnavi turned heads at the recent IPL auction

<p>Kaur Singh -- one-time national boxing champion and the only Indian pugilist to have stepped into the ring with Muhammad Ali -- had been struggling to pay his bills.</p>

<p>So, Shah Rukh Khan stepped in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kaur had needed Rs 2 lakh to fund his cardiac treatment, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Distressed by the news when he heard it, SRK offered him Rs 5 lakh.</p>

<p>The money was routed through Shah Rukh&#39;s Kolkata Knight Riders&#39; (KKR&#39;s) team.</p>

<p>&quot;Sportspersons bring pride to a country and it is our duty to look after them as a society. After reading about Kaur Singh, we as a sporting unit felt the need to stand by our fellow sportsman and urge everyone else to do the same in their own way. We wish Kaur Singh a speedy recovery and a healthy life,&quot; SRK said.</p>

<p>Kaur had taken a Rs 2 lakh loan from a financier, and was unable to repay it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But help came his way when the media reported his story.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh tweeted that he has cleared a Rs 2 lakh grant to the boxer and wished him a speedy recovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, Union Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore also sanctioned Rs 5 lakh to help Kaur pay his medical bills.</p>

<p>The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) too chipped in with assistance of Rs 1 lakh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kaur won gold at the 1982 Asian Games, got the Arjuna Award in 1982, and the Padmashri in 1983. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He hung up his gloves after representing India at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where he won two bouts.</p>

<p>On January 27, 1980, Kaur boxed against Ali at an exhibition bout in&nbsp;Delhi.</p>


Kaur Singh had borrowed Rs 2 lakh from a financier, which he was struggling to repay

Kaur Singh -- one-time national boxing champion and the only Indian pugilist to have stepped into the ring with Muhammad Ali -- had been struggling to pay his bills. So, Shah Rukh Khan stepped in. Kaur had needed Rs 2 lakh to fund his cardiac treatment, media reports said. Distressed by the news when he heard it, SRK offered him Rs 5 lakh. The money was routed through Shah Rukh's Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR's) team. "Sportspersons bring pride to a country and it is our duty to look after them as a society. After reading about Kaur Singh, we as a sporting unit felt the need to stand by our fellow sportsman and urge everyone else to do the same in their own way. We wish Kaur Singh a speedy recovery and a healthy life," SRK said. Kaur had taken a Rs 2 lakh loan from a financier, and was unable to repay it. But help came his way when the media reported his story. Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh tweeted that he has cleared a Rs 2 lakh grant to the boxer and wished him a speedy recovery. Later, Union Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore also sanctioned Rs 5 lakh to help Kaur pay his medical bills. The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) too chipped in with assistance of Rs 1 lakh. Kaur won gold at the 1982 Asian Games, got the Arjuna Award in 1982, and the Padmashri in 1983. He hung up his gloves after representing India at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where he won two bouts. On January 27, 1980, Kaur boxed against Ali at an exhibition bout in Delhi.

Indian boxer who fought Muhammad Ali can't pay bills, SRK helps out

<p>Bollywood actor and sports enthusiast Shah Rukh Khan had an interesting conversation with the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders, Gautam Gambhir on Twitter.<br />
<br />
The actor, who is a co-owner of the IPL (Indian Premier League) team Kolkata Knight Riders, had an adorable request for&nbsp;Gambhir who posted a video of himself playing a couple of deliveries from his daughter at her school.<br />
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He captioned the adorable video on Twitter:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">High pressure job facing my daughter Aazeen&rsquo;s bowling at her school. Hell, even she knows d line has to be outside d off stump vs papa!!!???? <a href="https://t.co/DX8SJOiLpI">pic.twitter.com/DX8SJOiLpI</a></p>
&mdash; Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/927537893819797504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>SRK, who is well known for his sense of humour, replied to Gambhir&#39;s tweet:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Get her to bowl for KKR please. Big hug. <a href="https://t.co/duNmtDKwPW">https://t.co/duNmtDKwPW</a></p>
&mdash; Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/927831864156368896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p><br />
Gambhir (4,132) is fourth in the list of leading run-scorers in the IPL behind Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.<br />
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Shah Rukh Khan co-owns Kolkata Knight Riders with Juhi Chawla and her husband Jay Mehta, the owner of the Mehta Group.<br />
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SRK was last seen in Imtiaz Ali&#39;s<em> Jab Harry Met Sejal</em>&nbsp;co-starring Anushka Sharma and is now busy shooting for Aanand L Rai&#39;s yet-untitled film.</p>


On Tuesday, Shah Rukh Khan had an interesting conversation with the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders, Gautam Gambhir on Twitter.

Bollywood actor and sports enthusiast Shah Rukh Khan had an interesting conversation with the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders, Gautam Gambhir on Twitter. The actor, who is a co-owner of the IPL (Indian Premier League) team Kolkata Knight Riders, had an adorable request for Gambhir who posted a video of himself playing a couple of deliveries from his daughter at her school. He captioned the adorable video on Twitter: High pressure job facing my daughter Aazeen’s bowling at her school. Hell, even she knows d line has to be outside d off stump vs papa!!!???? pic.twitter.com/DX8SJOiLpI — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) November 6, 2017 × SRK, who is well known for his sense of humour, replied to Gambhir's tweet: Get her to bowl for KKR please. Big hug. https://t.co/duNmtDKwPW — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) November 7, 2017 × Gambhir (4,132) is fourth in the list of leading run-scorers in the IPL behind Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Shah Rukh Khan co-owns Kolkata Knight Riders with Juhi Chawla and her husband Jay Mehta, the owner of the Mehta Group. SRK was last seen in Imtiaz Ali's Jab Harry Met Sejal co-starring Anushka Sharma and is now busy shooting for Aanand L Rai's yet-untitled film.

Guess who Shah Rukh Khan wants next for his KKR team

<p>One can draw many similarities between Sunrisers Hyderabad&rsquo;s (SRH) Indian Premier League (IPL) campaigns in 2016 and 2017. They finished at No. 3 in the points table in both seasons. They had two bowlers in top five at identical spots by the end of season: Bhuvneshwar Kumar (first) and Mustafizur Rahman (fifth) in 2016, Bhuvneshwar (first) and Rashid Khan (fifth) in 2017. They had two batsmen in top five, again by the end of season: David Warner (second) and Shikhar Dhawan (fifth) in 2016, Warner (first) and Dhawan (third) in 2017.</p>

<p>Further, SRH found a new overseas bowling sensation in both seasons. If Mustafizur did the job for them last year, Rashid&rsquo;s googlies bamboozled the best of batsmen in the ongoing league. Bhuvneshwar, Warner and Dhawan were consistent just like the previous season. The team had a good time playing at home, in fact better than the last year. However, the similarities end here, as the team bowed out of the tournament after losing Eliminator on Wednesday against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the same side they had beaten in the same match last year before going on to win Qualifier 2 and eventually the final.</p>

<p>From here, the focus shifts from what went wrong to the things they did differently this year to the things that did not click for them and the reasons behind their unsuccessful campaign. Let us take a look at the possible reasons behind their failure, the positives out of this campaign as well as what lies in store.</p>

<p><strong>Home bullies falter in away games</strong></p>

<p>In IPL 2016, SRH had won 7 of their 10 away games, thus having a 70 per cent success rate playing away from home. Being good away from home was a hallmark of their success last year. However, it came down drastically this year, with the team winning just 25 per cent of its away games: 2 out of 8. Although SRH had a better home season from last year (6 wins this year as compared to 4 in IPL 2016), the poor away record in IPL 2017 was one of the key factors behind their failure.</p>

<p><strong>Unsettled XI</strong></p>

<p>Unlike last year, SRH could not find a stable playing XI till their final game. The fact that they made as many as four changes for the Eliminator from their previous game underlies the issue. The likes of Kane Williamson, Vijay Shankar Mohammed Siraj and Mohammad Nabi did well in the limited chances they got. Giving them a longer run would probably have helped the franchise. But these players were shuffled far too often in order to find the right balance, which eventually never happened. Inconsistency in selection of playing XI, thus also hampered their prospects in IPL 2017.</p>

<p>Heavy reliance on a few individuals: One of the major reasons why SRH won the campaign last year was that they played as a single unit, with all players chipping in with vital contributions. This year, though, the team heavily relied on a couple of individuals in every department. Warner and Dhawan, just like last year, scored consistently. But barring them, none of them really stepped up. Yuvraj Singh was good in patches. Moises Henriques was good initially but lost his form as the tournament progressed. In-form Williamson was played in only half the games.</p>

<p>In bowling department as well, the story was not any different. Bhuvneshwar and Rashid excelled. Siddharth Kaul and Siraj did what they do best. But Ashish Nehra broke down once again, while an off-colour Mustafizur got just a solitary game. The dependency on a few individuals clearly hurt the side.</p>

<p><strong>Lastly, luck</strong></p>

<p>In the end, SRH would have been mighty disappointed with the way they bowed out of the tournament. Though they could only post a below-par 128 against KKR, a 20-over game would have given them a chance to defend it. They had enough firepower in their bowling arsenal to put up a fight, but a 6-over run chase was not fair to them. Had they been a little lucky yesterday night, a washed-out game would have put them into Qualifier 2.</p>

<p><strong>Positives from IPL 2017</strong></p>

<p>Rashid, Kaul, Siraj and Vijay Shankar were the biggest positives for SRH this season. However, it is unlikely if they remain a part of the squad next year with a high possibility of all the players going in the auction pool.</p>

<p><strong>The road ahead</strong></p>

<p>Even though SRH failed to cross the knockout hurdle, they played some good cricket overall. They have a solid group of players at their disposal and their aim next year should be to retain the core group. It is not going to be easy, with a fresh auction taking place for all the teams. But building the same team will be their top agenda next year.</p>

<p>Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling coach Muttiah Muralitharan confirmed the same at the post-match press conference after Eliminator. &ldquo;We had a very good season and we played well. However, unfortunately you need to go out sometimes when you are in the knockouts. Therefore, unfortunately this year is not our year. We will make sure if we can build the same team next year, comeback and fight for the trophy,&rdquo; he said.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Our batsmen batted well, the bowlers, who were picked in the auction, did well as well. Therefore, we are satisfied with our players along with our performance as well. We also won eight matches or something, while we just lost five matches, along with this loss. We won it last year, and that is not going to happen every time. Every team tries hard. Therefore, sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. We take it on the chin and say &lsquo;Ok, it&rsquo;s not our year&rsquo;. I also congratulate all the players who played really well for us,&rdquo; he added.</p>

<p>Given the performances SRH have put up over the last couple of seasons, there is no denying they will comeback harder next year and try even harder to win back the title.</p>

<p>(This story first appeared on cricketcountry.com)</p>


Though SRH failed to cross the knockout hurdle, they played some good cricket overall

One can draw many similarities between Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) Indian Premier League (IPL) campaigns in 2016 and 2017. They finished at No. 3 in the points table in both seasons. They had two bowlers in top five at identical spots by the end of season: Bhuvneshwar Kumar (first) and Mustafizur Rahman (fifth) in 2016, Bhuvneshwar (first) and Rashid Khan (fifth) in 2017. They had two batsmen in top five, again by the end of season: David Warner (second) and Shikhar Dhawan (fifth) in 2016, Warner (first) and Dhawan (third) in 2017. Further, SRH found a new overseas bowling sensation in both seasons. If Mustafizur did the job for them last year, Rashid’s googlies bamboozled the best of batsmen in the ongoing league. Bhuvneshwar, Warner and Dhawan were consistent just like the previous season. The team had a good time playing at home, in fact better than the last year. However, the similarities end here, as the team bowed out of the tournament after losing Eliminator on Wednesday against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the same side they had beaten in the same match last year before going on to win Qualifier 2 and eventually the final. From here, the focus shifts from what went wrong to the things they did differently this year to the things that did not click for them and the reasons behind their unsuccessful campaign. Let us take a look at the possible reasons behind their failure, the positives out of this campaign as well as what lies in store. Home bullies falter in away games In IPL 2016, SRH had won 7 of their 10 away games, thus having a 70 per cent success rate playing away from home. Being good away from home was a hallmark of their success last year. However, it came down drastically this year, with the team winning just 25 per cent of its away games: 2 out of 8. Although SRH had a better home season from last year (6 wins this year as compared to 4 in IPL 2016), the poor away record in IPL 2017 was one of the key factors behind their failure. Unsettled XI Unlike last year, SRH could not find a stable playing XI till their final game. The fact that they made as many as four changes for the Eliminator from their previous game underlies the issue. The likes of Kane Williamson, Vijay Shankar Mohammed Siraj and Mohammad Nabi did well in the limited chances they got. Giving them a longer run would probably have helped the franchise. But these players were shuffled far too often in order to find the right balance, which eventually never happened. Inconsistency in selection of playing XI, thus also hampered their prospects in IPL 2017. Heavy reliance on a few individuals: One of the major reasons why SRH won the campaign last year was that they played as a single unit, with all players chipping in with vital contributions. This year, though, the team heavily relied on a couple of individuals in every department. Warner and Dhawan, just like last year, scored consistently. But barring them, none of them really stepped up. Yuvraj Singh was good in patches. Moises Henriques was good initially but lost his form as the tournament progressed. In-form Williamson was played in only half the games. In bowling department as well, the story was not any different. Bhuvneshwar and Rashid excelled. Siddharth Kaul and Siraj did what they do best. But Ashish Nehra broke down once again, while an off-colour Mustafizur got just a solitary game. The dependency on a few individuals clearly hurt the side. Lastly, luck In the end, SRH would have been mighty disappointed with the way they bowed out of the tournament. Though they could only post a below-par 128 against KKR, a 20-over game would have given them a chance to defend it. They had enough firepower in their bowling arsenal to put up a fight, but a 6-over run chase was not fair to them. Had they been a little lucky yesterday night, a washed-out game would have put them into Qualifier 2. Positives from IPL 2017 Rashid, Kaul, Siraj and Vijay Shankar were the biggest positives for SRH this season. However, it is unlikely if they remain a part of the squad next year with a high possibility of all the players going in the auction pool. The road ahead Even though SRH failed to cross the knockout hurdle, they played some good cricket overall. They have a solid group of players at their disposal and their aim next year should be to retain the core group. It is not going to be easy, with a fresh auction taking place for all the teams. But building the same team will be their top agenda next year. Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling coach Muttiah Muralitharan confirmed the same at the post-match press conference after Eliminator. “We had a very good season and we played well. However, unfortunately you need to go out sometimes when you are in the knockouts. Therefore, unfortunately this year is not our year. We will make sure if we can build the same team next year, comeback and fight for the trophy,” he said. “Our batsmen batted well, the bowlers, who were picked in the auction, did well as well. Therefore, we are satisfied with our players along with our performance as well. We also won eight matches or something, while we just lost five matches, along with this loss. We won it last year, and that is not going to happen every time. Every team tries hard. Therefore, sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. We take it on the chin and say ‘Ok, it’s not our year’. I also congratulate all the players who played really well for us,” he added. Given the performances SRH have put up over the last couple of seasons, there is no denying they will comeback harder next year and try even harder to win back the title. (This story first appeared on cricketcountry.com)

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Unfortunate end to defending champions? inconsistent season

<p><strong>By Rustam Roy</strong></p>

<p>Gautam Gambhir&#39;s&nbsp;Kolkata Knight Riders have overcome the first hurdle in the knock-out phase by toppling Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL qualifier. Gambhir&#39;s men will now face the &#39;real test&#39; as they take on Mumbai Indians in the second qualifier&nbsp;on Friday.</p>

<p>Skipper Gautam Gambhir will obviously feel uncomfortable with the overall statistics since his team has lost 13 of the 18 encounters so far against the Mumbai side in the IPL. In fact, it has got worse for Kolkata this season with Gambhir&#39;s men losing both matches - home &amp; away - to Mumbai this year. On both occasions, Kolkata were beaten comfortably by 6 wickets by Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders may have peaked too early in this IPL, after making a mixed start winning the first game against Gujarat Lions by an emphatic 10-wicket margin, the Knights&nbsp;lost to Mumbai Indians by 4 wickets but&nbsp;they quickly regrouped and went on a winning streak winning three games in succession against Kings XI Punjab, Sunrisers Hyderabad&nbsp;&amp; Delhi Daredevils&nbsp;but lost unexpectedly against Gujarat Lions at home.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/kkr-beat-sunrisers-by-7-wickets-to-enter-qualifier-2-15702">Also Read:&nbsp;KKR beat Sunrisers by 7 wickets&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>The defeat spurred the Knights to win the next three games in succession against Daredevils,&nbsp;Rising Pune Supergiants &amp;&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bangalore which catapulted them to the top of the table. However, after a three-game high, the Knight Riders slipped down the table to end in fourth place managing to&nbsp;sneak&nbsp;into the qualifiers.</p>

<p>In the match against Sunrisers, Kolkata showed their mettle by first restricting Warner&#39;s men and then knocking off the target with four balls to spare with skipper Gautam Gambhir leading from the front, unbeaten on 32(2 sixes, 2 fours) in just 19 balls after his team lost 3 wickets for just 12 runs in a rain-hit match. The Knights finally reached the 48-run target in 5.2 overs.</p>

<p>In Friday&#39;s eliminator, Gautam Gambhir will have to lead from the front. The KKR skipper will have to open the innings if Kolkata intends to take on a rival against whom they haven&#39;t won a single game this season. The KKR top order has to fire and bowlers led by Umesh Yadav will have to come out all guns blazing.</p>

<p>KKR will probably start with a slight advantage having seen the nature of the Bengaluru pitch first-hand just a couple of hours ago. Even then, Mumbai Indians will not hold back led by Rohit Sharma they will have their own plan to checkmate KKR.</p>

<p>T-20 fans have never had it so good, may the best team win!</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>WION&#39;s sports editor Yash Jha talks about what to expect in the match as the two IPL giants clash at the Chinnaswamy Stadium today. (WION)</p>
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<p><strong>(WION)</strong></p>

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The KKR skipper will have to open the innings if Kolkata intends to take on a rival against whom they haven't won a single game.

By Rustam Roy Gautam Gambhir's Kolkata Knight Riders have overcome the first hurdle in the knock-out phase by toppling Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL qualifier. Gambhir's men will now face the 'real test' as they take on Mumbai Indians in the second qualifier on Friday. Skipper Gautam Gambhir will obviously feel uncomfortable with the overall statistics since his team has lost 13 of the 18 encounters so far against the Mumbai side in the IPL. In fact, it has got worse for Kolkata this season with Gambhir's men losing both matches - home & away - to Mumbai this year. On both occasions, Kolkata were beaten comfortably by 6 wickets by Mumbai. Kolkata Knight Riders may have peaked too early in this IPL, after making a mixed start winning the first game against Gujarat Lions by an emphatic 10-wicket margin, the Knights lost to Mumbai Indians by 4 wickets but they quickly regrouped and went on a winning streak winning three games in succession against Kings XI Punjab, Sunrisers Hyderabad & Delhi Daredevils but lost unexpectedly against Gujarat Lions at home. Also Read: KKR beat Sunrisers by 7 wickets The defeat spurred the Knights to win the next three games in succession against Daredevils, Rising Pune Supergiants & Royal Challengers Bangalore which catapulted them to the top of the table. However, after a three-game high, the Knight Riders slipped down the table to end in fourth place managing to sneak into the qualifiers. In the match against Sunrisers, Kolkata showed their mettle by first restricting Warner's men and then knocking off the target with four balls to spare with skipper Gautam Gambhir leading from the front, unbeaten on 32(2 sixes, 2 fours) in just 19 balls after his team lost 3 wickets for just 12 runs in a rain-hit match. The Knights finally reached the 48-run target in 5.2 overs. In Friday's eliminator, Gautam Gambhir will have to lead from the front. The KKR skipper will have to open the innings if Kolkata intends to take on a rival against whom they haven't won a single game this season. The KKR top order has to fire and bowlers led by Umesh Yadav will have to come out all guns blazing. KKR will probably start with a slight advantage having seen the nature of the Bengaluru pitch first-hand just a couple of hours ago. Even then, Mumbai Indians will not hold back led by Rohit Sharma they will have their own plan to checkmate KKR. T-20 fans have never had it so good, may the best team win! WION's sports editor Yash Jha talks about what to expect in the match as the two IPL giants clash at the Chinnaswamy Stadium today. (WION) × (WION)

IPL Qualifier 2, Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians: Gambhir must lead from the front

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders&#39; Indian Premier League play-off fate hangs in balance after suffering a defeat against Mumbai Indians in their last round league match here today.</p>

<p>Chasing 174 to win, KKR were restricted to 164-8 by Mumbai Indians, who dished out a disciplined bowling effort at Eden Gardens here.</p>

<p>This is the sixth loss for KKR in the tournament. They are now placed at the third place with 18 points. Their fate now depends on the match between Kings XI Punjab (14) and Rising Pune Supergiants (16) tomorrow.</p>

<p>If Punjab wins tomorrow then three teams will be on 16 points and it will come down to the run-rate to decide the play-off line-up.</p>

<p>Mumbai, who are already through to the play-offs, consolidated their position at the top of the table with 20 points after their 10th victory.</p>

<p>Manish Pandey (33) was the top-scorer for KKR but the hosts lost too many wickets early in the innings to put pressure on the middle and lower-order.</p>

<p>Earlier, Mumbai Indians tested their bench with much aplomb as Ambati Rayudu and Saurabh Tiwary slammed half- centuries to lift them to 173-5.</p>

<p>Making his debut for Mumbai Indians, Tiwary seized the opportunity with a glittering 43-ball 52 (9x4) while Rayudu who made a comeback after more than a month was Mumbai&#39;s top- scorer with a spectacular 63 from 37 balls (6x4, 3x6).</p>

<p>For KKR, Trent Boult (2/30) took two wickets, while Ankit Rajpoot (1/14) and Kuldeep Yadav (1/25) took one wicket each after skipper Gautam Gambhir won the toss and elected to bowl in the match which was delayed due to rain and thunderstorm.</p>

<p>(PTI)</p>


Chasing 174 to win, KKR were restricted to 164-8 by Mumbai Indians, who dished out a disciplined bowling effort at Eden Gardens

Kolkata Knight Riders' Indian Premier League play-off fate hangs in balance after suffering a defeat against Mumbai Indians in their last round league match here today. Chasing 174 to win, KKR were restricted to 164-8 by Mumbai Indians, who dished out a disciplined bowling effort at Eden Gardens here. This is the sixth loss for KKR in the tournament. They are now placed at the third place with 18 points. Their fate now depends on the match between Kings XI Punjab (14) and Rising Pune Supergiants (16) tomorrow. If Punjab wins tomorrow then three teams will be on 16 points and it will come down to the run-rate to decide the play-off line-up. Mumbai, who are already through to the play-offs, consolidated their position at the top of the table with 20 points after their 10th victory. Manish Pandey (33) was the top-scorer for KKR but the hosts lost too many wickets early in the innings to put pressure on the middle and lower-order. Earlier, Mumbai Indians tested their bench with much aplomb as Ambati Rayudu and Saurabh Tiwary slammed half- centuries to lift them to 173-5. Making his debut for Mumbai Indians, Tiwary seized the opportunity with a glittering 43-ball 52 (9x4) while Rayudu who made a comeback after more than a month was Mumbai's top- scorer with a spectacular 63 from 37 balls (6x4, 3x6). For KKR, Trent Boult (2/30) took two wickets, while Ankit Rajpoot (1/14) and Kuldeep Yadav (1/25) took one wicket each after skipper Gautam Gambhir won the toss and elected to bowl in the match which was delayed due to rain and thunderstorm. (PTI)

Kolkata Knight Riders suffer nine-run loss to Mumbai Indians

<p>Rookie batsman Rahul Tripathi played a breathtaking knock of 93 to singlehandedly take Rising Pune Supergiant to a four-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League here today (May 3).<br />
<br />
The Pune bowlers put up a disciplined effort to limit KKR to 155 for eight before Tripathi fashioned his team&#39;s win with a 52-ball blinder.<br />
<br />
The visiting team got home with four balls to spare with Tripathi missing out on a well-deserved hundred.<br />
<br />
The pick of the Pune bowlers was Jaydev Unadkat, who ended with figures of 2 for 28 after bowling a wicket-maiden in the first over of the game.<br />
<br />
It was a sixth win in seven matches for Pune, who have moved up to third place in the points table and closer to a play-off berth with 14 points from 11 matches.<br />
<br />
With their second straight loss, KKR remain second in the table with 14 points from 11 matches.<br />
<br />
It was all Tripathi in the chase as he stood out in Pune&#39;s star-studded batting line-up.<br />
<br />
His sensational innings was studded with seven sixes, three of them coming in succession off chinaman Kuldeep Yadav in the 13th over to reduce the equation to 26 off the last 42 balls. He also struck nine fours.<br />
He, however, could not stay till the end as he pulled one straight to midwicket in the penultimate over with six runs needed to win.<br />
<br />
Daniel Christian then sealed the win with a six off Colin de Grandhomme.<br />
<br />
Born in Ranchi and raised in Maharashtra, the 26-year- old Tripathi, who made IPL debut this season, showed fine composure as he held on despite wickets falling around him -- Ajinkya Rahane (11), Steve Smith (9), Manoj Tiwary (8), last match&#39;s hero Ben Stokes (14) and MS Dhoni (5).<br />
<br />
He was brutal against Coulter-Nile and smashed the Aussie for 4-6-4-4, the last three of them in succession, to race to 18 in seven balls in the third over.<br />
<br />
In the next over, India pace spearhead Umesh Yadav took the brunt as he hammered him for a six with a swivel shot on backfoot and followed it up with a four off a slower one.<br />
<br />
That Tripathi has a higher strike-rate than the likes of David Warner, Brendon McCullum, Jos Buttler, Kieron Pollard, AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle this season sums up his performance of the youngster who was bought at a base price of 10 lakh at the IPL auction.<br />
<br />
Earlier, Rising Pune Supergiant dished out a tidy bowling performance to restrict Kolkata Knight Riders to a modest total.<br />
<br />
Put in to bat, KKR found the going tough at their backyard and suffered their worst start of the season to be struggling at 55 for four inside 10 overs.<br />
<br />
Their top four, Sunil Narine (0), Gautam Gambhir (24), Sheldon Jackson (10) and Yusuf Pathan (4) were all back in dugout midway into their innings.<br />
<br />
Unadkat returned with excellent figures of 4-1-28-2, while 17-year-old Washington Sundar too was impressive in his 2/18 from two overs.<br />
<br />
The duo of Manish Pandey (37 off 32) and Colin de Grandhomme (36 off 19) revived KKR innings with a 48-run fifth wicket partnership off 30 balls.<br />
<br />
Having conceded just six runs in his opening spell of two overs, Unadkat returned to dismiss Grandhomme in the 17th over in which he conceded one run as KKR struggled to get going.<br />
<br />
It was thanks to Suryakumar Yadav, who was playing in place of an injured Robin Uthappa, KKR were able to cross the 150-run mark after the aggressive batsman smashed 30 off 16 balls.<br />
<br />
Pune had the best start of the tournament with Jaydev bowling a wicket-maiden off Sunil Narine.<br />
<br />
After being beaten in the first five deliveries, Narine finally got a connection in the last ball of the over only to find Unadkat in the way.<br />
<br />
Steven Smith showed full faith on youngster Washington, bringing the offspinner in the fourth over with KKR yet to break free.<br />
<br />
It was a gamble that paid off as Washington struck with Sheldon Jackson out hit-wicket, a first for KKR in 10 seasons.<br />
<br />
Gambhir took charge on Washington with back to back four and six but in his next attempt the KKR skipper holed out to Rahane at deep midwicket, leaving his team at 41 for three in Powerplay.<br />
<br />
This was the worst start for KKR as there was more in store when Imran Tahir trapped a sloppy Yusuf Pathan (4) LBW in his second over.<br />
<br />
Just when they were looking down the barrel, Pandey played a perfect fiddle Grandhomme as the duo scored at brisk pace to notch up 55 runs between 10 to 15 overs.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
(PTI)<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Pune bowlers put up a disciplined effort to limit KKR to 155 for eight before Tripathi fashioned his team's win with a 52-ball blinder

Rookie batsman Rahul Tripathi played a breathtaking knock of 93 to singlehandedly take Rising Pune Supergiant to a four-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League here today (May 3). The Pune bowlers put up a disciplined effort to limit KKR to 155 for eight before Tripathi fashioned his team's win with a 52-ball blinder. The visiting team got home with four balls to spare with Tripathi missing out on a well-deserved hundred. The pick of the Pune bowlers was Jaydev Unadkat, who ended with figures of 2 for 28 after bowling a wicket-maiden in the first over of the game. It was a sixth win in seven matches for Pune, who have moved up to third place in the points table and closer to a play-off berth with 14 points from 11 matches. With their second straight loss, KKR remain second in the table with 14 points from 11 matches. It was all Tripathi in the chase as he stood out in Pune's star-studded batting line-up. His sensational innings was studded with seven sixes, three of them coming in succession off chinaman Kuldeep Yadav in the 13th over to reduce the equation to 26 off the last 42 balls. He also struck nine fours. He, however, could not stay till the end as he pulled one straight to midwicket in the penultimate over with six runs needed to win. Daniel Christian then sealed the win with a six off Colin de Grandhomme. Born in Ranchi and raised in Maharashtra, the 26-year- old Tripathi, who made IPL debut this season, showed fine composure as he held on despite wickets falling around him -- Ajinkya Rahane (11), Steve Smith (9), Manoj Tiwary (8), last match's hero Ben Stokes (14) and MS Dhoni (5). He was brutal against Coulter-Nile and smashed the Aussie for 4-6-4-4, the last three of them in succession, to race to 18 in seven balls in the third over. In the next over, India pace spearhead Umesh Yadav took the brunt as he hammered him for a six with a swivel shot on backfoot and followed it up with a four off a slower one. That Tripathi has a higher strike-rate than the likes of David Warner, Brendon McCullum, Jos Buttler, Kieron Pollard, AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle this season sums up his performance of the youngster who was bought at a base price of 10 lakh at the IPL auction. Earlier, Rising Pune Supergiant dished out a tidy bowling performance to restrict Kolkata Knight Riders to a modest total. Put in to bat, KKR found the going tough at their backyard and suffered their worst start of the season to be struggling at 55 for four inside 10 overs. Their top four, Sunil Narine (0), Gautam Gambhir (24), Sheldon Jackson (10) and Yusuf Pathan (4) were all back in dugout midway into their innings. Unadkat returned with excellent figures of 4-1-28-2, while 17-year-old Washington Sundar too was impressive in his 2/18 from two overs. The duo of Manish Pandey (37 off 32) and Colin de Grandhomme (36 off 19) revived KKR innings with a 48-run fifth wicket partnership off 30 balls. Having conceded just six runs in his opening spell of two overs, Unadkat returned to dismiss Grandhomme in the 17th over in which he conceded one run as KKR struggled to get going. It was thanks to Suryakumar Yadav, who was playing in place of an injured Robin Uthappa, KKR were able to cross the 150-run mark after the aggressive batsman smashed 30 off 16 balls. Pune had the best start of the tournament with Jaydev bowling a wicket-maiden off Sunil Narine. After being beaten in the first five deliveries, Narine finally got a connection in the last ball of the over only to find Unadkat in the way. Steven Smith showed full faith on youngster Washington, bringing the offspinner in the fourth over with KKR yet to break free. It was a gamble that paid off as Washington struck with Sheldon Jackson out hit-wicket, a first for KKR in 10 seasons. Gambhir took charge on Washington with back to back four and six but in his next attempt the KKR skipper holed out to Rahane at deep midwicket, leaving his team at 41 for three in Powerplay. This was the worst start for KKR as there was more in store when Imran Tahir trapped a sloppy Yusuf Pathan (4) LBW in his second over. Just when they were looking down the barrel, Pandey played a perfect fiddle Grandhomme as the duo scored at brisk pace to notch up 55 runs between 10 to 15 overs. (PTI)

IPL: Rahul Tripathi fires Pune Supergiants to four-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders today notched up a comfortable seven-wicket win over Delhi Daredevils&nbsp;in their Indian Premier League match and remained on the top of the table.</p>

<p>Chasing a modest 161, the Knight Riders reached the target with nearly four over to spare, achieving the result in just 16.2 overs, losing just three wickets during the victory march at their home ground at Eden Gardens.</p>

<p>The former champions rode on half-centuries by Robin Uthappa who hit a gallant 33 ball-59 with four sixes and five boundaries, he was ably supported by skipper Gautam Gambhir who remained unbeaten on 71 off just 52 balls with eleven hits to the fence.</p>

<p>Gautam Gambhir&#39;s stylish unbeaten knock helped him to retain the orange cap, the KKR skipper has been &#39;The Wall&#39; for his team notching up 376 runs in nine innings at an average of 62 with an enviable strike rate of 136. The former Indian opener has hit 49 boundaries and 3 sixes in the current season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, sent in to bat, Delhi opener Sanju Samson top scored with a blazing 60 off 38 balls, while Shreyas Iyer contributed with 47 off 34 balls but it was clearly not enough as Delhi lost a heap of wickets in the closing stages after being comfortably placed at 140-4 in 15.5 overs.</p>

<p>For Kolkata Knight Riders, Nathan Coulter-Nile was the most successful bowler, returning figures of 3/34 from four overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(WION with PTI input)</p>


Half-centuries by skipper Robin Uthappa and skipper Gautam Gambhir helped Kolkata Knight Riders beat Delhi Daredevils easily by seven wickets at Eden Gardens.

Kolkata Knight Riders today notched up a comfortable seven-wicket win over Delhi Daredevils in their Indian Premier League match and remained on the top of the table. Chasing a modest 161, the Knight Riders reached the target with nearly four over to spare, achieving the result in just 16.2 overs, losing just three wickets during the victory march at their home ground at Eden Gardens. The former champions rode on half-centuries by Robin Uthappa who hit a gallant 33 ball-59 with four sixes and five boundaries, he was ably supported by skipper Gautam Gambhir who remained unbeaten on 71 off just 52 balls with eleven hits to the fence. Gautam Gambhir's stylish unbeaten knock helped him to retain the orange cap, the KKR skipper has been 'The Wall' for his team notching up 376 runs in nine innings at an average of 62 with an enviable strike rate of 136. The former Indian opener has hit 49 boundaries and 3 sixes in the current season. Earlier, sent in to bat, Delhi opener Sanju Samson top scored with a blazing 60 off 38 balls, while Shreyas Iyer contributed with 47 off 34 balls but it was clearly not enough as Delhi lost a heap of wickets in the closing stages after being comfortably placed at 140-4 in 15.5 overs. For Kolkata Knight Riders, Nathan Coulter-Nile was the most successful bowler, returning figures of 3/34 from four overs. (WION with PTI input)

IPL: Gambhir, Uthappa outplay Delhi Daredevils, KKR top table

<p>Robin Uthappa made a mockery of Rising Pune Supergiant&#39;s bowling attack to anchor Kolkata Knight Riders closer towards a play-off berth with a convincing seven-wicket win in an IPL match, here tonight.<br />
<br />
The India discard right-hander struck a match-winning 87 off just 47 balls balls and was ably supported by skipper Gautam Gambhir, who made 62 off 46 deliveries, as two-time champions KRR regained their spot in top of the standings with six wins from eight games.<br />
<br />
While Uthappa decorated his knock with seven boundaries and six hits over the fence, Gambhir innings was laced with six fours and one six.<br />
<br />
The duo stitched 158 runs off just 85 balls for the second wicket to help KKR chase down the 183-run target with 11 balls to spare.<br />
<br />
Earlier, Steven Smith led from the front with an unbeaten 51 to lift Pune to a challenging 182 for five.<br />
<br />
Smith&#39;s half-century came off 37 balls with the help of four boundaries and a six.<br />
<br />
Besides Smith, Ajinkya Rahane (46 off 41 balls), Rahul Tripathi (38 off 23), Mahendra Singh Dhoni (23 off 11) and Daniel Christian (16 off 6) also made useful contributions for the home team.<br />
<br />
Left-arm chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav was the pick of the bowlers for KKR with figures of two for 31.<br />
<br />
Chasing the target, Sunil Narine (15 off 9 balls) once again got KKR off to a brisk start before he was run out in the third over.<br />
<br />
Then Uthappa and Gambhir joined hands and took control off the chase with a bit of luck on their favour.<br />
<br />
Uthappa was lucky to have survived a close LBW call when he was yet to open his account and later when Jaydev Unadkat made a mess of a chance at deep midwicket off Imran Tahir&#39;s bowling with the batsman on 12.<br />
<br />
The stylish right-hander grabbed the opportunities with both hands and thereafter opened his arms to struck boundaries and sixes at will.<br />
<br />
Uthpappa did not spare a single Pune bowler with young Washington Sundar and Unadkat facing the maximum wrath.<br />
<br />
Uthappa brought up his half-century in just 26 balls in the 11th over.<br />
<br />
Gambhir, on the other hand, was content to play one and twos with occasional boundaries in between.<br />
<br />
Gambhir too got a life at the personal score of 32, dropped by Sundar off Daniel Christian&#39;s bowling.<br />
<br />
The duo, however, could not finish off the chase as both departed while trying to get over the line as quickly as possible but not before doing the job for their side.<br />
<br />
Earlier sent into bat, Pune made a brisk start, courtesy opener Tripathi&#39;s aggressive strokeplay.<br />
<br />
Tripathi was at his aggressive best while his experienced partner Rahane played the second fiddle.<br />
<br />
Tripahi went about his shots and luck favoured him as he got two reprieves -- first an outside in the fifth delivery of the innings which went just over wicketkeeper Uthappa&#39;s reach and then Yusuf Pathan spilled a chance at long-on in the seventh over while running backwards.<br />
<br />
During his stay at the crease Triptahi dealt mainly in boundaries and struck Narine (1/34) for three boundaries to pick up 15 runs in the sixth over.<br />
<br />
However, Triptahi&#39;s luck ran out shortly as he under- edged a Piyush Chawla (1/36) googly on to his stumps soon.<br />
<br />
Tripathi&#39;s dismissal hardly had any effect on Pune Supergiant&#39;s scoring rate as Rahane and skipper Smith struck a boundary each in every over thereafter.<br />
<br />
But Rahane fell four runs short of his second IPL 10 fifty when he was stumped by Uthappa off Narine&#39;s bowling.<br />
<br />
Rahane&#39;s wicket brought in Dhoni who made his intentions clear from the onset.<br />
<br />
Dhoni struck Chawla to the midwicket boundary in the third ball of the 15th over and then followed it up with a huge hit over long-off boundary off the next ball.<br />
<br />
Dhoni continued his onslaught and clobbered Kuldeep Yadav for another six in the next over.<br />
<br />
But a brilliant 18th over from Kuldeep Yadav and some fine glove work by Uthappa derailed Pune Supergiant&#39;s surge.<br />
<br />
Kuldeep Yadav foxed Dhoni and Manoj Tiwary with two beautiful googlies and Uthappa was quick to whip off the bails to dismiss the batsmen.<br />
<br />
Just when it seemed KKR had managed to pull things back, Smith and Christian stepped on the accelerator and accumulated 30 runs off the last two overs, that included consecutive sixes by the latter off Chris Woakes, to take Pune beyond the 180-run mark.</p>

<p>(PTI)</p>


Robin Uthappa struck a match-winning 87 to propel Kolkata Knight Riders to the top of the league table

Robin Uthappa made a mockery of Rising Pune Supergiant's bowling attack to anchor Kolkata Knight Riders closer towards a play-off berth with a convincing seven-wicket win in an IPL match, here tonight. The India discard right-hander struck a match-winning 87 off just 47 balls balls and was ably supported by skipper Gautam Gambhir, who made 62 off 46 deliveries, as two-time champions KRR regained their spot in top of the standings with six wins from eight games. While Uthappa decorated his knock with seven boundaries and six hits over the fence, Gambhir innings was laced with six fours and one six. The duo stitched 158 runs off just 85 balls for the second wicket to help KKR chase down the 183-run target with 11 balls to spare. Earlier, Steven Smith led from the front with an unbeaten 51 to lift Pune to a challenging 182 for five. Smith's half-century came off 37 balls with the help of four boundaries and a six. Besides Smith, Ajinkya Rahane (46 off 41 balls), Rahul Tripathi (38 off 23), Mahendra Singh Dhoni (23 off 11) and Daniel Christian (16 off 6) also made useful contributions for the home team. Left-arm chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav was the pick of the bowlers for KKR with figures of two for 31. Chasing the target, Sunil Narine (15 off 9 balls) once again got KKR off to a brisk start before he was run out in the third over. Then Uthappa and Gambhir joined hands and took control off the chase with a bit of luck on their favour. Uthappa was lucky to have survived a close LBW call when he was yet to open his account and later when Jaydev Unadkat made a mess of a chance at deep midwicket off Imran Tahir's bowling with the batsman on 12. The stylish right-hander grabbed the opportunities with both hands and thereafter opened his arms to struck boundaries and sixes at will. Uthpappa did not spare a single Pune bowler with young Washington Sundar and Unadkat facing the maximum wrath. Uthappa brought up his half-century in just 26 balls in the 11th over. Gambhir, on the other hand, was content to play one and twos with occasional boundaries in between. Gambhir too got a life at the personal score of 32, dropped by Sundar off Daniel Christian's bowling. The duo, however, could not finish off the chase as both departed while trying to get over the line as quickly as possible but not before doing the job for their side. Earlier sent into bat, Pune made a brisk start, courtesy opener Tripathi's aggressive strokeplay. Tripathi was at his aggressive best while his experienced partner Rahane played the second fiddle. Tripahi went about his shots and luck favoured him as he got two reprieves -- first an outside in the fifth delivery of the innings which went just over wicketkeeper Uthappa's reach and then Yusuf Pathan spilled a chance at long-on in the seventh over while running backwards. During his stay at the crease Triptahi dealt mainly in boundaries and struck Narine (1/34) for three boundaries to pick up 15 runs in the sixth over. However, Triptahi's luck ran out shortly as he under- edged a Piyush Chawla (1/36) googly on to his stumps soon. Tripathi's dismissal hardly had any effect on Pune Supergiant's scoring rate as Rahane and skipper Smith struck a boundary each in every over thereafter. But Rahane fell four runs short of his second IPL 10 fifty when he was stumped by Uthappa off Narine's bowling. Rahane's wicket brought in Dhoni who made his intentions clear from the onset. Dhoni struck Chawla to the midwicket boundary in the third ball of the 15th over and then followed it up with a huge hit over long-off boundary off the next ball. Dhoni continued his onslaught and clobbered Kuldeep Yadav for another six in the next over. But a brilliant 18th over from Kuldeep Yadav and some fine glove work by Uthappa derailed Pune Supergiant's surge. Kuldeep Yadav foxed Dhoni and Manoj Tiwary with two beautiful googlies and Uthappa was quick to whip off the bails to dismiss the batsmen. Just when it seemed KKR had managed to pull things back, Smith and Christian stepped on the accelerator and accumulated 30 runs off the last two overs, that included consecutive sixes by the latter off Chris Woakes, to take Pune beyond the 180-run mark. (PTI)

IPL: Kolkata's Uthappa blitz pummels Pune bowlers into submission

<p>In a stunning collapse, Royal Challengers Bangalore were all out for 49, the lowest score in the history of IPL as Kolkata Knight Riders spanked them by 82 runs, here tonight.<br />
<br />
The hosts had put up a modest total on the board as they were all out for 131 with RCB leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal taking three wickets.<br />
<br />
However, the hosts defended the total despite facing one of the biggest hitters in the game in the rival camp.<br />
<br />
Australian paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile ripped apart the Bangalore top-order by dismissing skipper Virat Kohli (0), AB de Villiers (8) and Kedar Jadhav (9).<br />
<br />
Pacemen Chris Woakes (3/6) and Colin de Grandhomme (3/4) also took three wickets each to bowl out RCB for 49 in just 9.4 overs.</p>

<p>(PTI)</p>


The Virat Kohli-led franchise was bowled out for the lowest score in IPL history

In a stunning collapse, Royal Challengers Bangalore were all out for 49, the lowest score in the history of IPL as Kolkata Knight Riders spanked them by 82 runs, here tonight. The hosts had put up a modest total on the board as they were all out for 131 with RCB leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal taking three wickets. However, the hosts defended the total despite facing one of the biggest hitters in the game in the rival camp. Australian paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile ripped apart the Bangalore top-order by dismissing skipper Virat Kohli (0), AB de Villiers (8) and Kedar Jadhav (9). Pacemen Chris Woakes (3/6) and Colin de Grandhomme (3/4) also took three wickets each to bowl out RCB for 49 in just 9.4 overs. (PTI)

IPL: Bangalore all out for 49, lose to Kolkata

<p>Suresh Raina played a captain&rsquo;s knock to guide struggling Gujarat Lions to a comprehensive four-wicket win over two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders in an Indian Premier League match, here today.</p>

<p>Chasing a challenging 188-run target set by KKR, Raina led from the front with a blistering 46-ball 84-run knock to set the platform for the much-needed win for Gujarat Lions.</p>

<p>Coming on to bat at the number three position, Raina took the attack to the opposition bowlers and decorated his innings with nine boundaries and four sixes to steer Gujarat Lions chase.</p>

<p>He was ably supported by Brendon McCullum (33) and Aaron Finch (31) who stitched 42 runs off just 21 balls for the opening stand to get Gujarat Lions&rsquo; chase off to a flier.</p>

<p>Down the order, Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 19 to finish off the proceedings for Gujarat Lions with a boundary in 18.2 overs.</p>

<p>Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav (2/33) Nathan Coulter-Nile (2/41) picked up two wickets apiece for KKR.</p>

<p>Earlier, Robin Uthappa cracked a brilliant half-century while makeshift opener Sunil Narine struck a quickfire 47 at the top to guide Kolkata Knight Riders to 187 for five.</p>

<p>Uthappa made 72 off just 48 balls balls with the help of eight boundaries and two sixes to anchor the KKR innings after Narine (42 off 17 balls) played a short little cameo at the top to give his side a blazing start to their innings after being invited to bat.</p>

<p>Narine&rsquo;s breezy knock was studded with nine boundaries and a huge hit over the fence.</p>

<p>Besides, skipper Gautam Gambhir made 33 off 28 balls while Manish Pandey (24) and Yusuf Pathan (11 not out) also contributed for the hosts.</p>

<p>For Gujarat Lions, skipper Suresh Raina (2/11) was the most economical bowler.</p>

<p>(AFP)</p>


Raina's 46-ball 84, aided by a whirlwind start, helped his team chase down a stiff target set by Kolkata

Suresh Raina played a captain’s knock to guide struggling Gujarat Lions to a comprehensive four-wicket win over two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders in an Indian Premier League match, here today. Chasing a challenging 188-run target set by KKR, Raina led from the front with a blistering 46-ball 84-run knock to set the platform for the much-needed win for Gujarat Lions. Coming on to bat at the number three position, Raina took the attack to the opposition bowlers and decorated his innings with nine boundaries and four sixes to steer Gujarat Lions chase. He was ably supported by Brendon McCullum (33) and Aaron Finch (31) who stitched 42 runs off just 21 balls for the opening stand to get Gujarat Lions’ chase off to a flier. Down the order, Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 19 to finish off the proceedings for Gujarat Lions with a boundary in 18.2 overs. Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav (2/33) Nathan Coulter-Nile (2/41) picked up two wickets apiece for KKR. Earlier, Robin Uthappa cracked a brilliant half-century while makeshift opener Sunil Narine struck a quickfire 47 at the top to guide Kolkata Knight Riders to 187 for five. Uthappa made 72 off just 48 balls balls with the help of eight boundaries and two sixes to anchor the KKR innings after Narine (42 off 17 balls) played a short little cameo at the top to give his side a blazing start to their innings after being invited to bat. Narine’s breezy knock was studded with nine boundaries and a huge hit over the fence. Besides, skipper Gautam Gambhir made 33 off 28 balls while Manish Pandey (24) and Yusuf Pathan (11 not out) also contributed for the hosts. For Gujarat Lions, skipper Suresh Raina (2/11) was the most economical bowler. (AFP)

IPL: Raina's captain knock helps Gujarat conquer KKR target

<p><a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/manish-pandey.html">M</a>anish Pandey and Yusuf Pathan each struck blistering half-centuries as Kolkata Knight Riders defeated Delhi Daredevils by four wickets to register their third successive win in the ongoing tenth edition of the Indian Premier League here at the Feroz Shah Kotla on Monday.</p>

<p>Chasing a decent target of 169 runs to win,&nbsp;<a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/kolkata-knight-riders.html">Kolkata Knight Riders&nbsp;</a>lost opener Colin de Grandhomme and skipper Gautam Gambhir cheaply for one and 14 runs, respectively.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Zaheer Khan&#39;s Delhi Daredevils will take on Gambhir&#39;s Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite big-hitters and fiery pacers in both teams, watch out for the spinners in both teams as one of them could well be a match-winner in this crucial encounter. (WION)</p>
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<p>Manish then steadied his side&#39;s innings, as he not only smashed an unbeaten 69-run knock, including four boundaries and three sixes, but also shared a 110-run stand with Pathan (59) for the fourth wicket to help visitors chase down the target with a ball remaining.</p>

<p>For Delhi Daredevils, Zaheer Khan and Pat Cummins bagged two wickets each while Chris Morris and Amit Mishra also chipped in with a wicket each.</p>

<p>Earlier, opting to bat first,&nbsp;<a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/delhi-daredevils.html">D</a>elhi Daredevils posted 168 for 7 in their stipulated 20 overs. Opener Sanju Samson (39) and Rishabh Pant (38) were the top scorers for the Delhi-based team.</p>

<p>Nathan Coulter-Nile was the pick of the bowler for the Kolkata team for his figures of three for 22 while Chris Woakes, Umesh Yadav and Sunil Narine all contributed with a wicket each.</p>

<p>Kolkata, who are standing at the top of the table with four wins from five games they have played, will now take on Gujarat Lions at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on April 21.</p>

<p>(ANI)</p>


Chasing 169 and struggling at 21 for three, the KKR duo hit blistering fifties to scorch a stiff target

Manish Pandey and Yusuf Pathan each struck blistering half-centuries as Kolkata Knight Riders defeated Delhi Daredevils by four wickets to register their third successive win in the ongoing tenth edition of the Indian Premier League here at the Feroz Shah Kotla on Monday. Chasing a decent target of 169 runs to win, Kolkata Knight Riders lost opener Colin de Grandhomme and skipper Gautam Gambhir cheaply for one and 14 runs, respectively. Zaheer Khan's Delhi Daredevils will take on Gambhir's Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite big-hitters and fiery pacers in both teams, watch out for the spinners in both teams as one of them could well be a match-winner in this crucial encounter. (WION) × Manish then steadied his side's innings, as he not only smashed an unbeaten 69-run knock, including four boundaries and three sixes, but also shared a 110-run stand with Pathan (59) for the fourth wicket to help visitors chase down the target with a ball remaining. For Delhi Daredevils, Zaheer Khan and Pat Cummins bagged two wickets each while Chris Morris and Amit Mishra also chipped in with a wicket each. Earlier, opting to bat first, Delhi Daredevils posted 168 for 7 in their stipulated 20 overs. Opener Sanju Samson (39) and Rishabh Pant (38) were the top scorers for the Delhi-based team. Nathan Coulter-Nile was the pick of the bowler for the Kolkata team for his figures of three for 22 while Chris Woakes, Umesh Yadav and Sunil Narine all contributed with a wicket each. Kolkata, who are standing at the top of the table with four wins from five games they have played, will now take on Gujarat Lions at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on April 21. (ANI)

IPL: Pandey, Pathan power Kolkata to thrilling win over Delhi

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by 17 runs in their Indian Premier League match, here today.<br />
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Chasing a challenging 173-run target, Sunrisers Hyderabad could reach 155 for six in their allotted 20 overs with Kolkata bowlers putting on a commendable performance.<br />
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For Hyderabad, David Warner and Yuvraj Singh top scored with identical 26 each.<br />
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Earlier, Robin Uthappa struck a gritty 68 off 39 balls to help the Knight Riders recover from a jittery start and post 172 for six.<br />
<br />
Despite seeing off openers -- Sunil Narine and Gautam Gambhir -- early, the Sunrisers bowlers failed to make further in-roads in the middle overs and the Karnataka duo of Uthappa and Manish Pandey (46) put on a solid 77-run partnership from 52 balls.</p>

<p>(PTI)</p>


Robin Uthappa's blitz also helped Kolkata Knight Riders set a challenging total for Hyderabad Sunrisers

Kolkata Knight Riders defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by 17 runs in their Indian Premier League match, here today. Chasing a challenging 173-run target, Sunrisers Hyderabad could reach 155 for six in their allotted 20 overs with Kolkata bowlers putting on a commendable performance. For Hyderabad, David Warner and Yuvraj Singh top scored with identical 26 each. Earlier, Robin Uthappa struck a gritty 68 off 39 balls to help the Knight Riders recover from a jittery start and post 172 for six. Despite seeing off openers -- Sunil Narine and Gautam Gambhir -- early, the Sunrisers bowlers failed to make further in-roads in the middle overs and the Karnataka duo of Uthappa and Manish Pandey (46) put on a solid 77-run partnership from 52 balls. (PTI)

IPL: Narine, Kuldeep spin Kolkata to victory over Hyderabad

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