A solider on Wednesday died in Kolkata due to suspected Nipah virus infection which has left a total of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-death-toll-from-nipah-virus-rises-to-14-140144">14 dead in Kerala</a> till now, reports said.&nbsp;

As per reports, the soldier was from Kerala and was posted at Fort William. He was admitted to the hospital on April 20 and died on Sunday.&nbsp;

The brain-damaging infection first broke out in Kerala. The state government has also issued an advisory, asking travelers to avoid visiting the four districts of Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, and Kannur.

The Nipah virus, which is spread by fruit bats and pigs, can cause a communicable disease that can be fatal for both animals and humans.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nipah-virus-scare-hunt-for-origin-of-mysterious-brain-damaging-virus-stepped-up-140813">A fresh round of tests </a>have begun to trace the origin of the infection, a health official said on Monday. The initial tests on animals suspected of carrying the Nipah virus showed no sign of the disease.

All animal samples, including those from bats, cattle, goats and pigs from Kerala, sent to the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, were negative for Nipah, said animal husbandry officer A Mohandas.

No confirmed cases of the virus have been found outside the state. However, Goa, Maharashtra, Himachal, Chhatisgarh and many other <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nipah-virus-bihar-sikkim-mp-puducherry-issue-advisories-for-people-140107">states have been put on high alert</a>.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-nipah-virus-hampers-tourism-locals-blame-media-139619">Kerala: Nipah virus hampers tourism, locals blame media</a>

There is no vaccine for the virus, which is spread through body fluids and can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, the World Health Organization (WHO) says.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned imports of fresh vegetables and fruits from Kerala where 13 people have died due to an outbreak of the rare brain-damaging Nipah virus, the Gulf state said on Tuesday.

Last week, the UAE consulate in Kerala advised travelers to take precautions and follow safety instructions issued by the Indian authorities.

The Gulf state has also banned imports of live animals from South Africa, based on a notification from the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) of the registration of Rift Valley Fever disease, the ministry said.

South Africa's Department of Agriculture said on May 16 that an outbreak of the disease had been confirmed in sheep on a single farm in the central Free State province and that further investigations were being conducted.

The Nipah virus, which is spread by fruit bats and pigs, can cause a communicable disease that can be fatal for both animals and humans

A solider on Wednesday died in Kolkata due to suspected Nipah virus infection which has left a total of 14 dead in Kerala till now, reports said. As per reports, the soldier was from Kerala and was posted at Fort William. He was admitted to the hospital on April 20 and died on Sunday. The brain-damaging infection first broke out in Kerala. The state government has also issued an advisory, asking travelers to avoid visiting the four districts of Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, and Kannur. The Nipah virus, which is spread by fruit bats and pigs, can cause a communicable disease that can be fatal for both animals and humans. A fresh round of tests have begun to trace the origin of the infection, a health official said on Monday. The initial tests on animals suspected of carrying the Nipah virus showed no sign of the disease. All animal samples, including those from bats, cattle, goats and pigs from Kerala, sent to the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, were negative for Nipah, said animal husbandry officer A Mohandas. No confirmed cases of the virus have been found outside the state. However, Goa, Maharashtra, Himachal, Chhatisgarh and many other states have been put on high alert. Also read: Kerala: Nipah virus hampers tourism, locals blame media There is no vaccine for the virus, which is spread through body fluids and can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, the World Health Organization (WHO) says. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned imports of fresh vegetables and fruits from Kerala where 13 people have died due to an outbreak of the rare brain-damaging Nipah virus, the Gulf state said on Tuesday. Last week, the UAE consulate in Kerala advised travelers to take precautions and follow safety instructions issued by the Indian authorities. The Gulf state has also banned imports of live animals from South Africa, based on a notification from the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) of the registration of Rift Valley Fever disease, the ministry said. South Africa's Department of Agriculture said on May 16 that an outbreak of the disease had been confirmed in sheep on a single farm in the central Free State province and that further investigations were being conducted.

Solider dies in Kolkata due to suspected Nipah virus

Rashid Khan became the star of IPL 2018 Qualifier 2 as he propelled Hyderabad into final by taking 3-wickets in his four overs and scoring 10-ball-34 when batting against Kolkata at Eden on Friday.&nbsp;

With this match, Kolkata is out from the tournament while Hyderabad will clash with Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Chennai on May 27.

Opener Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine gave Kolkata the required start to chase a target of 175 runs.

However, Siddarth Kaul broke the 40 runs partnership as he sent Narine back to the pavilion for 26.

Lynn, who continued his attack, fell just two runs short of his half-century and was lbw by Afghanistan tweaker Rashid Khan.&nbsp;Lynn made 48 runs in 31 balls which included six boundaries and two sixes.

Skipper Dinesh Karthik and Robi Uthappa too lost their wickets early for 8 and 2 respectively. 
&nbsp; 
For Hyderabad, Rashid Khan played a perfect cameo to help Hyderabad set 175 runs target.&nbsp;

Khan played a strike rate of 340 and smashed two boundaries and four sixes in his inning. &nbsp;

Put into bat, Wriddhiman Saha and Shikhar Dhawan gave Hyderabad a decent start before Dhawan lost his wicket to Kuldeep Yadav for 34 runs.

Yadav struck twice the same over and dismissed skipper Kane Williamson for cheap 3 runs.

It was then Shakib Al Hasan came to bat and estlabished a partnership with Saha.

But the wicketkeeper-batsman was also sent back to the pavilion for just 35 runs.&nbsp;

For Kolkata, Prasidh Krishna became the costliest bowler as he gave away 56 runs in four overs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to bowl against Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 Qualifier 2 at Eden Gardens, on Friday. &nbsp;

Teams:

Hyderabad (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Deepak Hooda, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Carlos Brathwaite, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul, K Khaleel Ahmed

Kolkata (Playing XI): Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi

Hyderabad will clash with Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Chennai on May 27.

Rashid Khan became the star of IPL 2018 Qualifier 2 as he propelled Hyderabad into final by taking 3-wickets in his four overs and scoring 10-ball-34 when batting against Kolkata at Eden on Friday. With this match, Kolkata is out from the tournament while Hyderabad will clash with Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Chennai on May 27. Opener Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine gave Kolkata the required start to chase a target of 175 runs. However, Siddarth Kaul broke the 40 runs partnership as he sent Narine back to the pavilion for 26. Lynn, who continued his attack, fell just two runs short of his half-century and was lbw by Afghanistan tweaker Rashid Khan. Lynn made 48 runs in 31 balls which included six boundaries and two sixes. Skipper Dinesh Karthik and Robi Uthappa too lost their wickets early for 8 and 2 respectively. For Hyderabad, Rashid Khan played a perfect cameo to help Hyderabad set 175 runs target. Khan played a strike rate of 340 and smashed two boundaries and four sixes in his inning. Put into bat, Wriddhiman Saha and Shikhar Dhawan gave Hyderabad a decent start before Dhawan lost his wicket to Kuldeep Yadav for 34 runs. Yadav struck twice the same over and dismissed skipper Kane Williamson for cheap 3 runs. It was then Shakib Al Hasan came to bat and estlabished a partnership with Saha. But the wicketkeeper-batsman was also sent back to the pavilion for just 35 runs. For Kolkata, Prasidh Krishna became the costliest bowler as he gave away 56 runs in four overs. Earlier, Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to bowl against Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 Qualifier 2 at Eden Gardens, on Friday. Teams: Hyderabad (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Deepak Hooda, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Carlos Brathwaite, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul, K Khaleel Ahmed Kolkata (Playing XI): Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi

IPL 2018: Rashid Khan propels Hyderabad into final; beat Kolkata by 13 runs

Rashid Khan played a perfect 10-ball-34 runs cameo to help Hyderabad set 175 runs target for Kolkata at Eden Gardens, on Friday.&nbsp

Khan played at a strike rate of 340 and smashed two boundaries and four sixes in his inning. &nbsp

Put into bat, Wriddhiman Saha and Shikhar Dhawan gave Hyderabad a decent start before Dhawan lost his wicket to Kuldeep Yadav for 34 runs.

Yadav struck twice the same over and dismissed skipper Kane Williamson for cheap 3 runs.

It was then Shakib Al Hasan came to bat and estlabished a partnership with Saha.

But the wicketkeeper-batsman was also sent back to the pavilion for just 35 runs.&nbsp

For Kolkata, Prasidh Krishna became the costliest bowler as he gave away 56 runs in four overs.&nbsp

Earlier, Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to bowl against Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 Qualifier 2 at Eden Gardens, on Friday. &nbsp

Both the teams will battle out to book a berth in the final, to be played against Mahendra Singh Dhoni's Chennai on May 27.&nbsp

&nbspSpeaking after the toss, Dinesh Karthik said, "We will bowl first. We would like to chase down the target. We fought hard (against RR), we showed good character, we came back hard and we finally won the game."

"It's always the case in a must-win game, two good teams are out to play today. Just one change for us, Shivam Mavi replaces Javon Searles," he added.

Hyderabad, on the other hand, have lost four matches on the trot and will be looking to return to the winning ways.

Talking about their strategy for today, skipper Kane Williamson said, Looks like a good surface, we need to put the runs on the board and defend it. We need to move on and put our best effort."

"This is not the time to be conservative, it's a must-win game for both teams and we need to put our best foot forward, he added."

"We have three changes, Hooda, Saha and Khaleel are in, Manish Pandey, Shreevats Goswami and Sandeep Sharma are out," he concluded.&nbsp

Hyderabad have played very loose in the last four games. Their bowling attack which is their strength, since the first game, became a problem as they failed to swing wickets in team's favour. &nbsp&nbsp

Teams:

 
Hyderabad (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Deepak Hooda, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Carlos Brathwaite, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul, K Khaleel Ahmed

Kolkata (Playing XI): Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi 
&nbsp

Khan played at a strike rate of 340 and smashed two boundaries and four sixes in his inning.

Rashid Khan played a perfect 10-ball-34 runs cameo to help Hyderabad set 175 runs target for Kolkata at Eden Gardens, on Friday. Khan played at a strike rate of 340 and smashed two boundaries and four sixes in his inning. Put into bat, Wriddhiman Saha and Shikhar Dhawan gave Hyderabad a decent start before Dhawan lost his wicket to Kuldeep Yadav for 34 runs. Yadav struck twice the same over and dismissed skipper Kane Williamson for cheap 3 runs. It was then Shakib Al Hasan came to bat and estlabished a partnership with Saha. But the wicketkeeper-batsman was also sent back to the pavilion for just 35 runs. For Kolkata, Prasidh Krishna became the costliest bowler as he gave away 56 runs in four overs. Earlier, Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to bowl against Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 Qualifier 2 at Eden Gardens, on Friday. Both the teams will battle out to book a berth in the final, to be played against Mahendra Singh Dhoni's Chennai on May 27. &nbspSpeaking after the toss, Dinesh Karthik said, "We will bowl first. We would like to chase down the target. We fought hard (against RR), we showed good character, we came back hard and we finally won the game." "It's always the case in a must-win game, two good teams are out to play today. Just one change for us, Shivam Mavi replaces Javon Searles," he added. Hyderabad, on the other hand, have lost four matches on the trot and will be looking to return to the winning ways. Talking about their strategy for today, skipper Kane Williamson said, Looks like a good surface, we need to put the runs on the board and defend it. We need to move on and put our best effort." "This is not the time to be conservative, it's a must-win game for both teams and we need to put our best foot forward, he added." "We have three changes, Hooda, Saha and Khaleel are in, Manish Pandey, Shreevats Goswami and Sandeep Sharma are out," he concluded. Hyderabad have played very loose in the last four games. Their bowling attack which is their strength, since the first game, became a problem as they failed to swing wickets in team's favour. Teams: Hyderabad (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Deepak Hooda, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Carlos Brathwaite, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul, K Khaleel Ahmed Kolkata (Playing XI): Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi

IPL 2018: Rashid Khan's 10-ball-34 powers Hyderabad to 174

Two-time champions Kolkata will host Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad at the Eden Gardens stadium on Friday, May 25 to book a berth in the Indian Premier League 2018 finals.

The winner of tonight's match will meet MS Dhoni-led Chennai in the IPL's finale on May 27 as team Chennai has already through to the finals after defeating Hyderabad in the Qualifier 1.

It's very ironic when the table toppers at the end of league matches, struggle&nbsp;to reach the finals, now call it carelessness or the lack of performance from their middle-order, Hyderabad have lost four straight games, something that will be a cause of concern for Williamson's side in tonight's game.

Although, Hyderabad have the best bowling unit in the presence of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma and Rashid Khan. The bowling side will try to take benefits from the Eden Gardens track but it is not easy to face Dinesh Karthik's side&nbsp;as the batsmen coming at the 6th and 7th position have potential to score runs.

In the presence of crazy fans at the Eden Gardens, Dinesh Karthik&nbsp;side definitely has an upper hand against Hyderabad.

In the first Qualifier, when Hyderabad had their match in the pocket with Chennai struggling at 62-6 while chasing 140 runs but the bowling strategy backfired in the death overs when Carlos Brathwaite leaked too many runs.

Also, Hyderabad's problem has been their batting which is heavily reliant on skipper Kane Williamson, the current 'Orange Cap' holder with 685 runs at 57.05 average.

In order to resolve it, Shikhar Dhawan will have to rise to the occasion but it is the middle order that has created problems, Manish Pandey and Yusuf Pathan will have to score in order to help the bowling unit to bowl without pressure.

On the other hand, Dinesh Karthik who will look to go unchanged unless there's an injury in the lineup.&nbsp;

Their biggest strength has been the team's ability to stand up and perform in case someone fails. That we have seen in the Eliminator match when the top batting order was out bowled then middle batting order scored to reach the target.

The clash is going to be very interesting as the result will give another finalist of the tournament.

Watch the preview:

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Playing XI (TBC):

Kolkata: Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik, Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna.

Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Shreevats Goswami, Kane Williamson, Manish Pandey, Yusuf Pathan, Shakib Al Hasan, Carlos Brathwaite, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sandeep Sharma, Siddarth Kaul

Two-time champions Kolkata will host Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad at the Eden Gardens stadium to book a berth in the IPL 2018 finals

Two-time champions Kolkata will host Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad at the Eden Gardens stadium on Friday, May 25 to book a berth in the Indian Premier League 2018 finals. The winner of tonight's match will meet MS Dhoni-led Chennai in the IPL's finale on May 27 as team Chennai has already through to the finals after defeating Hyderabad in the Qualifier 1. It's very ironic when the table toppers at the end of league matches, struggle to reach the finals, now call it carelessness or the lack of performance from their middle-order, Hyderabad have lost four straight games, something that will be a cause of concern for Williamson's side in tonight's game. Although, Hyderabad have the best bowling unit in the presence of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma and Rashid Khan. The bowling side will try to take benefits from the Eden Gardens track but it is not easy to face Dinesh Karthik's side as the batsmen coming at the 6th and 7th position have potential to score runs. In the presence of crazy fans at the Eden Gardens, Dinesh Karthik side definitely has an upper hand against Hyderabad. In the first Qualifier, when Hyderabad had their match in the pocket with Chennai struggling at 62-6 while chasing 140 runs but the bowling strategy backfired in the death overs when Carlos Brathwaite leaked too many runs. Also, Hyderabad's problem has been their batting which is heavily reliant on skipper Kane Williamson, the current 'Orange Cap' holder with 685 runs at 57.05 average. In order to resolve it, Shikhar Dhawan will have to rise to the occasion but it is the middle order that has created problems, Manish Pandey and Yusuf Pathan will have to score in order to help the bowling unit to bowl without pressure. On the other hand, Dinesh Karthik who will look to go unchanged unless there's an injury in the lineup. Their biggest strength has been the team's ability to stand up and perform in case someone fails. That we have seen in the Eliminator match when the top batting order was out bowled then middle batting order scored to reach the target. The clash is going to be very interesting as the result will give another finalist of the tournament. Watch the preview: × Playing XI (TBC): Kolkata: Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik, Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna. Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Shreevats Goswami, Kane Williamson, Manish Pandey, Yusuf Pathan, Shakib Al Hasan, Carlos Brathwaite, Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sandeep Sharma, Siddarth Kaul

IPL 2018, 2nd Qualifier: Karthik-led Kolkata have advantage at Eden against Hyderabad

Kolkata defeated Rajasthan by 25 runs to enter the Qualifier II of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.&nbsp;

While chasing a decent target of 170 runs, Rajasthan fell apart despite the spectacular knocks of skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Sanju Samson and could manage only 144/4. 
&nbsp; 
Rahane fell four runs short to reach his half-century and was caught and bowled at 46, by Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;

His 41-ball inning included four boundaries and one huge six.&nbsp;

It was after Rahane's wicket that Samson took the reins in his hand and smashed a brilliant half-century.&nbsp;

But he too gave away his wicket after smashing four boundaries and two sixes.

With this defeat, Rajasthan has been eliminated from the IPL tournament while Kolkata will lock horns with Hyderabad, who were defeated by Chennai in Qualifier 1, on Tuesday.

The two teams will now meet on Friday to decide who faces MS Dhoni-led Chennai in the final on Sunday.

Earlier, Dinesh Karthik and Andrew Russell's superb partnership powered Kolkata to 169 runs in the eliminator of Indian Premier League &nbsp;2018.&nbsp;

While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls. Russell's unbeaten inning included three fours and five huge sixes.

Before that, Karthik and Shubman Gill too added 55 runs for the fifth wicket to recover the team after the top batting order fell cheaply.&nbsp;

Kolkata had their worst start of the season with K Gowtham (2/15 in three overs) and Jofra Archer (2/33) reducing them to 46/3 inside the powerplay.

From being 63 for 4 midway into the innings, Kolkata brilliantly stepped on the gas in the second-half, scoring 106 runs in the last 10 overs with Russell in charge of the proceedings.

Jaydev Unadkat, who leaked 33 runs from his two overs, was a big letdown from Rajasthan's perspective as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side could not choke the hosts despite a sound start.

Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata at Eden Gardens stadium on Wednesday.

After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions.

On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match.&nbsp;

Both the teams entered with the same squad and there was no change in the playing XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While chasing a decent target of 170 runs Rajasthan fell apart

Kolkata defeated Rajasthan by 25 runs to enter the Qualifier II of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. While chasing a decent target of 170 runs, Rajasthan fell apart despite the spectacular knocks of skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Sanju Samson and could manage only 144/4. Rahane fell four runs short to reach his half-century and was caught and bowled at 46, by Kuldeep Yadav. His 41-ball inning included four boundaries and one huge six. It was after Rahane's wicket that Samson took the reins in his hand and smashed a brilliant half-century. But he too gave away his wicket after smashing four boundaries and two sixes. With this defeat, Rajasthan has been eliminated from the IPL tournament while Kolkata will lock horns with Hyderabad, who were defeated by Chennai in Qualifier 1, on Tuesday. The two teams will now meet on Friday to decide who faces MS Dhoni-led Chennai in the final on Sunday. Earlier, Dinesh Karthik and Andrew Russell's superb partnership powered Kolkata to 169 runs in the eliminator of Indian Premier League 2018. While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls. Russell's unbeaten inning included three fours and five huge sixes. Before that, Karthik and Shubman Gill too added 55 runs for the fifth wicket to recover the team after the top batting order fell cheaply. Kolkata had their worst start of the season with K Gowtham (2/15 in three overs) and Jofra Archer (2/33) reducing them to 46/3 inside the powerplay. From being 63 for 4 midway into the innings, Kolkata brilliantly stepped on the gas in the second-half, scoring 106 runs in the last 10 overs with Russell in charge of the proceedings. Jaydev Unadkat, who leaked 33 runs from his two overs, was a big letdown from Rajasthan's perspective as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side could not choke the hosts despite a sound start. Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata at Eden Gardens stadium on Wednesday. After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions. On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match. Both the teams entered with the same squad and there was no change in the playing XI.

IPL 2018: Rajasthan eliminated as Kolkata enter Qualifier 2 with 25-run win

After top batting order fell cheaply, skipper Dinesh Karthik and Andrew Russell's superb partnership powered Kolkata to 169 runs in the eliminator of Indian Premier League &nbsp2018.&nbsp

While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls. Russell's unbeaten inning included three fours and five huge sixes.

Earlier, Karthik and Shubman Gill added 55 runs for the fifth wicket to recover the team from early losses.

Kolkata had their worst start of the season with K Gowtham (2/15 in three overs) and Jofra Archer (2/33) reducing them to 46/3 inside the powerplay.

From being 63 for 4 midway into the innings, Kolkata brilliantly stepped on the gas in the second-half, scoring 106 runs in the last 10 overs with Russell in charge of the proceedings.

Jaydev Unadkat, who leaked 33 runs from his two overs, was a big letdown from Rajasthan's perspective as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side could not choke the hosts despite a sound start.

Earlier, Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday.

After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions.

On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match.&nbsp

Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI.&nbsp

Playing XI:

Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Rajasthan: Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin 
&nbsp

While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls.

After top batting order fell cheaply, skipper Dinesh Karthik and Andrew Russell's superb partnership powered Kolkata to 169 runs in the eliminator of Indian Premier League &nbsp2018. While Karthik slammed 52 runs in 38 balls, Russell made 49 runs in 25 balls. Russell's unbeaten inning included three fours and five huge sixes. Earlier, Karthik and Shubman Gill added 55 runs for the fifth wicket to recover the team from early losses. Kolkata had their worst start of the season with K Gowtham (2/15 in three overs) and Jofra Archer (2/33) reducing them to 46/3 inside the powerplay. From being 63 for 4 midway into the innings, Kolkata brilliantly stepped on the gas in the second-half, scoring 106 runs in the last 10 overs with Russell in charge of the proceedings. Jaydev Unadkat, who leaked 33 runs from his two overs, was a big letdown from Rajasthan's perspective as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side could not choke the hosts despite a sound start. Earlier, Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday. After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions. On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match. Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI. Playing XI: Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Rajasthan: Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin

IPL 2018 Eliminator: Karthik, Russell power Kolkata to 169

Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata in the Eliminator match of Indian Premier League 2018 at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday.

After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions.

On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match.&nbsp

Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI.&nbsp

Playing XI:

Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Rajasthan: Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin

Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions

Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bowl against Kolkata in the Eliminator match of Indian Premier League 2018 at &nbspEden Gardens stadium on Wednesday. After winning the toss, Rahane mentioned the characteristics of Eden's pitch which is a bit damp and the team which bats in the second innings has been successful in most of the occasions. On the other hand, Kolkata's skipper Dinesh Karthik said there is no scope of errors in tonight's match. Both the teams have entered with the same squad and there is no change in the playing XI. Playing XI: Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Rajasthan: Rahul Tripathi, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Ish Sodhi, Jaydev Unadkat, Shreyas Gopal, Ben Laughlin

IPL 2018: Ajinkya Rahane opts to bowl against Kolkata in Eliminator match

Chennai entered the finals of Indian Premier League's (IPL) 11th edition after beating Hyderabad by two wickets.&nbsp;

While Chennai wait for the second finalist to be announced, Hyderabad is waiting desperately to face the team who win the eliminator to reach the qualifier 2.

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata and Ajinkya Rahane's Rajasthan were the other two teams who booked a place in play-offs.

The two teams will lock horns today at Eden Gardens to decide which team will face Hyderabad, who are eager to return to winning ways. &nbsp;

There could not have been a better stadium for the Kolkata to play the eliminator. They have a fantastic record at the venue over the years and have made the stadium their den.

Kuldeep Yadav, Sunil Narine and Piyush Chawla know the pitch and its conditions and the trio will be the toughest acid test for the Rajasthan batting, which has already shown signs of weakness in the group stages.

The batting line has shared their duties throughout the season. Unlike their rivals, no single batsman has been a stand out performer.

Every batsman has chipped in with significant contributions as six of them have scored more than 250 runs during this tournament.

The likes of Nitish Rana, Russell, and Karthik have all chipped in during the group stages to take the team past the finish line.

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On the other hand, Rajasthan has a dismal record at this venue having last won a tie here during the inaugural edition of the IPL and followed it with five straight defeats.

With Rajasthan's hope to reverse the result of their previous outing at the venue, they will enter the ground without their best batsman Jos Buttler and best bowler Ben Stokes.

The move to send Buttler at the top of the order paid rich dividends as he slammed five consecutive fifties - a feat earlier recorded only by Virender Sehwag in 2012 - to send his team to the playoffs.

They are now overly dependent on Sanju Samson, 391 runs, Ajinkya Rahane 328 runs and Rahul Tripathi 206 runs.

The win for any team today would not be a piece of cake but Kolkata will surely look to turn the things in their favour, being the advantage of their home ground.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Chennai entered the finals of Indian Premier League's (IPL) 11th edition after beating Hyderabad by two wickets. While Chennai wait for the second finalist to be announced, Hyderabad is waiting desperately to face the team who win the eliminator to reach the qualifier 2. Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata and Ajinkya Rahane's Rajasthan were the other two teams who booked a place in play-offs. The two teams will lock horns today at Eden Gardens to decide which team will face Hyderabad, who are eager to return to winning ways. There could not have been a better stadium for the Kolkata to play the eliminator. They have a fantastic record at the venue over the years and have made the stadium their den. Kuldeep Yadav, Sunil Narine and Piyush Chawla know the pitch and its conditions and the trio will be the toughest acid test for the Rajasthan batting, which has already shown signs of weakness in the group stages. The batting line has shared their duties throughout the season. Unlike their rivals, no single batsman has been a stand out performer. Every batsman has chipped in with significant contributions as six of them have scored more than 250 runs during this tournament. The likes of Nitish Rana, Russell, and Karthik have all chipped in during the group stages to take the team past the finish line. × On the other hand, Rajasthan has a dismal record at this venue having last won a tie here during the inaugural edition of the IPL and followed it with five straight defeats. With Rajasthan's hope to reverse the result of their previous outing at the venue, they will enter the ground without their best batsman Jos Buttler and best bowler Ben Stokes. The move to send Buttler at the top of the order paid rich dividends as he slammed five consecutive fifties - a feat earlier recorded only by Virender Sehwag in 2012 - to send his team to the playoffs. They are now overly dependent on Sanju Samson, 391 runs, Ajinkya Rahane 328 runs and Rahul Tripathi 206 runs. The win for any team today would not be a piece of cake but Kolkata will surely look to turn the things in their favour, being the advantage of their home ground.

IPL 2018: Kolkata, Rajasthan battle to cross eliminator hurdle

The eleventh edition of India Premier League has entered its last week and the franchise is all set for the knockout stage.

The top four teams - Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata and Rajasthan- have made it to the tournament’s play-offs.

After the grueling and deciding week, Mumbai and Punjab have been eliminated by Delhi and Chennai respectively.

Although, Punjab did not qualify in the tournament's play-off but its co-owner Preity Zinta was caught on camera saying that she is 'happy.'

In a viral video, Preity Zinta said, "I am just very happy that Mumbai is not going to the finals … really happy."

The reason for her happiness was the elimination of&nbsp;the rival team Mumbai

Defending Champions Mumbai lost the last chance to book a play-off berth as they were kicked out of the tournament by Delhi team that gave a joyous moment to Bollywood's actress Preity Zinta.

Here is the video:

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Did <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PreityZinta?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PreityZinta</a> just say “I am just very happy that Mumbai is not going to the finals..Really happy” ? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvKXIP?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvKXIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvsDD?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvsDD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/KWaxSUZYZh">pic.twitter.com/KWaxSUZYZh</a>
— Jo (@jogtweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/jogtweets/status/998233626092457984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Preity Zinta : "I'm just very happy that Mumbai is knocked out...very happy" ...??<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cskvkxip?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cskvkxip</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KXIP?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KXIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://t.co/jCKywZ4vep">pic.twitter.com/jCKywZ4vep</a>
— LinksInd (@LinksInd1) <a href="https://twitter.com/LinksInd1/status/998277392731799552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The top two teams of IPL 2018, i.e. Chennai and Hyderabad, will meet each other in the Qualifier 1 on Tuesday.

The winner of the match will go directly to the IPL 2018 final while the loser will get one more chance.

The team placed third and fourth in IPL 2018 points table will meet in the Eliminator on Wednesday, May 23.

The winner of the match will enter the Qualifier 2, where they will clash with the losing side of Qualifier 1. That match will take place on Friday, May 25.

The winners of Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2 will clash for the IPL 2018 trophy on Sunday, May 27.

Although, Punjab did not qualify in the tournament's play-off but franchise co-owner Preity Zinta was caught on camera saying that she is 'happy.'

The eleventh edition of India Premier League has entered its last week and the franchise is all set for the knockout stage. The top four teams - Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata and Rajasthan- have made it to the tournament’s play-offs. After the grueling and deciding week, Mumbai and Punjab have been eliminated by Delhi and Chennai respectively. Although, Punjab did not qualify in the tournament's play-off but its co-owner Preity Zinta was caught on camera saying that she is 'happy.' In a viral video, Preity Zinta said, "I am just very happy that Mumbai is not going to the finals … really happy." The reason for her happiness was the elimination of the rival team Mumbai Defending Champions Mumbai lost the last chance to book a play-off berth as they were kicked out of the tournament by Delhi team that gave a joyous moment to Bollywood's actress Preity Zinta. Here is the video: Did #PreityZinta just say “I am just very happy that Mumbai is not going to the finals..Really happy” ? #CSKvKXIP #MIvsDD #IPL #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/KWaxSUZYZh — Jo (@jogtweets) May 20, 2018 × Preity Zinta : "I'm just very happy that Mumbai is knocked out...very happy" ...??#cskvkxip #KXIP #MumbaiIndians pic.twitter.com/jCKywZ4vep — LinksInd (@LinksInd1) May 20, 2018 × The top two teams of IPL 2018, i.e. Chennai and Hyderabad, will meet each other in the Qualifier 1 on Tuesday. The winner of the match will go directly to the IPL 2018 final while the loser will get one more chance. The team placed third and fourth in IPL 2018 points table will meet in the Eliminator on Wednesday, May 23. The winner of the match will enter the Qualifier 2, where they will clash with the losing side of Qualifier 1. That match will take place on Friday, May 25. The winners of Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2 will clash for the IPL 2018 trophy on Sunday, May 27.

Watch: After Mumbai's exit from IPL, Punjab's Preity Zinta says, 'She is very happy'

"Size does matter" – It is a well-versed quote. But as the group stage of IPL-2018 is over and you take a glance at the outcome, you would strongly disagree with this quote.

IPL-2018 endorses once again that in sports what actually matters is that how you gel with each other in a team composition and how you deliver on the ground. The stature and big players won't really help if this basic idea is missing.

Look at the qualifiers for the playoffs. Chennai is back in the league after suspension of two years and played well right from the beginning. Dhoni is back with his old mojo, both as a captain and player. He stood and delivered.

Hyderabad team has been the unexpected table topper. They are the only team in the tournament which is led by an overseas player, Kane Williamson. Before the start of IPL, Hyderabad got a jolt when their coveted skipper David Warner was ruled out of the tournament. But Williamson has been leading the side from the front and using whatever resources he has with clinical efficiency.

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<h5>Rajasthan and Kolkata are led by Ajinkya Rahane and Dinesh Karthik and both of them are not even India's regular for One Day International and T-20</h5>
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Other two qualifiers Rajasthan and Kolkata are led by Ajinkya Rahane and Dinesh Karthik and both of them are not even India's regular for One Day International and T-20.&nbsp;

Rajasthan also received a setback like Hyderabad when the big name and their nominated skipper Steve Smith was ruled out. Ajinkya was the last minute pick for the side and not much was expected from Rajasthan team.

Rajasthan, however, made to the next stage albeit with difficulty. Shahrukh's franchise did not pick their regular skipper Gautam Gambhir this time and Karthik was leading any IPL side for the first time. Kolkata had few anxious moments at the group stage but Dinesh Karthik led his troop well and with the support of competent guidance of Jacques Kallis.

On contrary to above, all the big name bit the dust. Mumbai Indians, arguably the most coveted team as it is owned by the richest man in India and mentored by none other than the legend Sachin Tendulkar has been knocked out. Mumbai team has been supported and coached by a legion of players like Mahela Jayawardene, Robin Singh and Malinga but nothing helped.

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<h5>Virat Kohli could not sail his side through, despite having names like AB deVilliers (ABD), Chahal, Brendon McCullum and Umesh Yadav in the line-up of his side</h5>
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Unarguably the most decorated player in the recent time Virat Kohli could not sail his side through, despite having names like AB deVilliers (ABD), Chahal, Brendon McCullum and Umesh Yadav in the line-up of his side.

Kohli and ABD are the two most destructive batsmen in the shorter version of the game. They batted well as such but the team failed to deliver the final punch.

Delhi’s poor run in IPL continued in 2018 as well. The team coached and mentored by the legendary cricketer Ricky Ponting. Gautam Gambhir, who in past lifted trophy twice as Kolkata's skipper was Delhi's skipper to start with but failed miserably.&nbsp;

The destructive Glen Maxwell, playing for Delhi was a big-time failure. Though Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer batted well but the failure of Gambhir and Maxwell was proved to be costly for the side.

Ashwin-led Punjab team has been knocked out despite having players like Gayle, KL Rahul and Yuvraj Singh in the line-up. The great Virender Sehwag also could not turn things around for the side. The failure of Gayle and Yuvraj (two of the biggest name in the history of T-20) hit the team hard.

The message is clear. You need to deliver on the ground to get success. The great Australian coach John Buchanan once said that “You may have limitations, but may not have the limit. Just go and apply yourself”. This quote of Buchanan is so much a truth here.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

IPL-2018 endorses once again that in sports what actually matters is that how you gel with each other in a team composition and how you deliver on the ground

"Size does matter" – It is a well-versed quote. But as the group stage of IPL-2018 is over and you take a glance at the outcome, you would strongly disagree with this quote. IPL-2018 endorses once again that in sports what actually matters is that how you gel with each other in a team composition and how you deliver on the ground. The stature and big players won't really help if this basic idea is missing. Look at the qualifiers for the playoffs. Chennai is back in the league after suspension of two years and played well right from the beginning. Dhoni is back with his old mojo, both as a captain and player. He stood and delivered. Hyderabad team has been the unexpected table topper. They are the only team in the tournament which is led by an overseas player, Kane Williamson. Before the start of IPL, Hyderabad got a jolt when their coveted skipper David Warner was ruled out of the tournament. But Williamson has been leading the side from the front and using whatever resources he has with clinical efficiency. Rajasthan and Kolkata are led by Ajinkya Rahane and Dinesh Karthik and both of them are not even India's regular for One Day International and T-20 × Other two qualifiers Rajasthan and Kolkata are led by Ajinkya Rahane and Dinesh Karthik and both of them are not even India's regular for One Day International and T-20. Rajasthan also received a setback like Hyderabad when the big name and their nominated skipper Steve Smith was ruled out. Ajinkya was the last minute pick for the side and not much was expected from Rajasthan team. Rajasthan, however, made to the next stage albeit with difficulty. Shahrukh's franchise did not pick their regular skipper Gautam Gambhir this time and Karthik was leading any IPL side for the first time. Kolkata had few anxious moments at the group stage but Dinesh Karthik led his troop well and with the support of competent guidance of Jacques Kallis. On contrary to above, all the big name bit the dust. Mumbai Indians, arguably the most coveted team as it is owned by the richest man in India and mentored by none other than the legend Sachin Tendulkar has been knocked out. Mumbai team has been supported and coached by a legion of players like Mahela Jayawardene, Robin Singh and Malinga but nothing helped. Virat Kohli could not sail his side through, despite having names like AB deVilliers (ABD), Chahal, Brendon McCullum and Umesh Yadav in the line-up of his side × Unarguably the most decorated player in the recent time Virat Kohli could not sail his side through, despite having names like AB deVilliers (ABD), Chahal, Brendon McCullum and Umesh Yadav in the line-up of his side. Kohli and ABD are the two most destructive batsmen in the shorter version of the game. They batted well as such but the team failed to deliver the final punch. Delhi’s poor run in IPL continued in 2018 as well. The team coached and mentored by the legendary cricketer Ricky Ponting. Gautam Gambhir, who in past lifted trophy twice as Kolkata's skipper was Delhi's skipper to start with but failed miserably. The destructive Glen Maxwell, playing for Delhi was a big-time failure. Though Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer batted well but the failure of Gambhir and Maxwell was proved to be costly for the side. Ashwin-led Punjab team has been knocked out despite having players like Gayle, KL Rahul and Yuvraj Singh in the line-up. The great Virender Sehwag also could not turn things around for the side. The failure of Gayle and Yuvraj (two of the biggest name in the history of T-20) hit the team hard. The message is clear. You need to deliver on the ground to get success. The great Australian coach John Buchanan once said that “You may have limitations, but may not have the limit. Just go and apply yourself”. This quote of Buchanan is so much a truth here. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Takeaways from IPL 2018 - Size doesn't really matter

The Indian Premier League got its third team which managed to book its berth in the play-offs race in form of Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata.

The Shah Rukh Khan co-owned franchise defeated table-toppers Hyderabad by five wickets at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Saturday.

Chris Lynn and Robin Uthappa played a perfect innings to save Kolkata in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. 
&nbsp 
Lynn smashed 55 runs in just 43 balls before giving away his wicket to S Kaul.

It was after that, Uthappa continued the momentum and took Kolkata a step near to victory.&nbsp

Meanwhile, Hyderabad bowlers have had another lacklustre game after they failed to swing wickets in their favour.&nbsp

Death-overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar failed to take any wickets and gave away 33 runs in four overs bowled.&nbsp

Despite getting a flying start, table-toppers Hyderabad were restricted for mere 172 runs by the Kolkata bowlers&nbsp

Shikhar Dhawan and Shreevats Goswami opened for Hyderabad and established 79 runs partnership before Kuldeep Yadav broke the bond.&nbsp

Goswami was sent back to the pavilion after making 35 runs off 26 balls. 
&nbsp 
Dhawan continued the attack to reach his half-century, before being LBW.

Skipper Kane Williamson also smashed 36 runs off 16 balls. His inning included one boundary and three sixes.&nbsp

Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna came out as a trump card for Kolkata as he took four crucial wickets to restrict Hyderabad from setting a massive total.

In four overs bowled, Prasidh gave 30 runs which included two wides also.

Russell, &nbspNarine, Yadav and Searles took one wicket apiece.

Yadav today turned out to be the costliest player for Kolkata as he gave 35 runs in four overs at an economy of 8.75.

Lynn smashed 55 runs in just 43 balls before giving away his wicket to S Kaul.

The Indian Premier League got its third team which managed to book its berth in the play-offs race in form of Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata. The Shah Rukh Khan co-owned franchise defeated table-toppers Hyderabad by five wickets at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Saturday. Chris Lynn and Robin Uthappa played a perfect innings to save Kolkata in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. Lynn smashed 55 runs in just 43 balls before giving away his wicket to S Kaul. It was after that, Uthappa continued the momentum and took Kolkata a step near to victory. Meanwhile, Hyderabad bowlers have had another lacklustre game after they failed to swing wickets in their favour. Death-overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar failed to take any wickets and gave away 33 runs in four overs bowled. Despite getting a flying start, table-toppers Hyderabad were restricted for mere 172 runs by the Kolkata bowlers Shikhar Dhawan and Shreevats Goswami opened for Hyderabad and established 79 runs partnership before Kuldeep Yadav broke the bond. Goswami was sent back to the pavilion after making 35 runs off 26 balls. Dhawan continued the attack to reach his half-century, before being LBW. Skipper Kane Williamson also smashed 36 runs off 16 balls. His inning included one boundary and three sixes. Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna came out as a trump card for Kolkata as he took four crucial wickets to restrict Hyderabad from setting a massive total. In four overs bowled, Prasidh gave 30 runs which included two wides also. Russell, &nbspNarine, Yadav and Searles took one wicket apiece. Yadav today turned out to be the costliest player for Kolkata as he gave 35 runs in four overs at an economy of 8.75.

IPL 2018: Kolkata make it to play-offs, beat Hyderabad by 5 wickets

Despite getting a flying start, table-toppers Hyderabad were restricted for mere 172 runs by the Kolkata bowlers at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Saturday.

Shikhar Dhawan and Shreevats Goswami opened for Hyderabad and established 79 runs partnership before Kuldeep Yadav broke the bond.&nbsp

Goswami was sent back to the pavilion after making 35 runs off 26 balls. 
&nbsp 
Dhawan continued the attack to reach his half-century, before being LBW.

Skipper Kane Williamson also smashed 36 runs off 17 balls. His inning included one boundary and three sixes.&nbsp

Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna came out as a trump card for Kolkata as he took four crucial wickets to restrict Hyderabad from setting a massive total.

In four overs bowled, Prasidh gave 30 runs which included two wides also.

Russell, &nbspNarine, Yadav and Searles took one wicket apiece.

Yadav today turned out to be the costliest player for Kolkata as he gave 35 runs in four overs at an economy of 8.75.&nbsp

Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday.

After winning the toss Hyderabad skipper Kane Williamson highlighted the quality of pitch and said that it has grass and it will stay the same that is an advantage for the Hyderabad team.

As expected, Basil Thampi has been dropped as his performance in the previous game was very poor.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Carlos Brathwaite have been included in the squad for tonight's match at the pace of Alex Hales and Basil Thampi.

On the other hand, Dinesh Karthik mentioned that the pitch might turn a bit and there is only change for Kolkata, Piyush Chawla has replaced Shivam Mavi.

Playing XI:

Kolkata:&nbspSunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Hyderabad:&nbspShikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Shreevats Goswami(w), Carlos Brathwaite, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

Skipper Kane Williamson also smashed 36 runs off 17 balls

Despite getting a flying start, table-toppers Hyderabad were restricted for mere 172 runs by the Kolkata bowlers at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Saturday. Shikhar Dhawan and Shreevats Goswami opened for Hyderabad and established 79 runs partnership before Kuldeep Yadav broke the bond. Goswami was sent back to the pavilion after making 35 runs off 26 balls. Dhawan continued the attack to reach his half-century, before being LBW. Skipper Kane Williamson also smashed 36 runs off 17 balls. His inning included one boundary and three sixes. Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna came out as a trump card for Kolkata as he took four crucial wickets to restrict Hyderabad from setting a massive total. In four overs bowled, Prasidh gave 30 runs which included two wides also. Russell, &nbspNarine, Yadav and Searles took one wicket apiece. Yadav today turned out to be the costliest player for Kolkata as he gave 35 runs in four overs at an economy of 8.75. Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. After winning the toss Hyderabad skipper Kane Williamson highlighted the quality of pitch and said that it has grass and it will stay the same that is an advantage for the Hyderabad team. As expected, Basil Thampi has been dropped as his performance in the previous game was very poor. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Carlos Brathwaite have been included in the squad for tonight's match at the pace of Alex Hales and Basil Thampi. On the other hand, Dinesh Karthik mentioned that the pitch might turn a bit and there is only change for Kolkata, Piyush Chawla has replaced Shivam Mavi. Playing XI: Kolkata:&nbspSunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Hyderabad:&nbspShikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Shreevats Goswami(w), Carlos Brathwaite, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

IPL 2018: After flying start Hyderabad restricted to mere 172

Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday.

After winning the toss Hyderabad skipper Kane Williamson highlighted the quality of pitch and said that it has grass and it will stay the same that is an advantage for the Hyderabad team.

As expected, Basil Thampi has been dropped as his performance in the previous game was very poor.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Carlos Brathwaite have been included in the squad for tonight's match at the pace of Alex Hales and Basil Thampi.

On the other hand, Dinesh Karthik mentioned that the pitch might turn a bit and there is only change for Kolkata, Piyush Chawla has replaced Shivam Mavi.

Playing XI:

Kolkata: Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Shreevats Goswami(w), Carlos Brathwaite, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Carlos Brathwaite have been included in Hyderabad's squad for tonight's match

Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. After winning the toss Hyderabad skipper Kane Williamson highlighted the quality of pitch and said that it has grass and it will stay the same that is an advantage for the Hyderabad team. As expected, Basil Thampi has been dropped as his performance in the previous game was very poor. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Carlos Brathwaite have been included in the squad for tonight's match at the pace of Alex Hales and Basil Thampi. On the other hand, Dinesh Karthik mentioned that the pitch might turn a bit and there is only change for Kolkata, Piyush Chawla has replaced Shivam Mavi. Playing XI: Kolkata: Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Shreevats Goswami(w), Carlos Brathwaite, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

IPL 2018: Kane Williamson opts to bat against Kolkata

How often do you see such stiff competition among teams to qualify for the next round of the tournament as you are witnessing this in the IPL 2018?

Now take this fact. During the round-robin stage total, 56 matches were slated to decide four qualifiers for the playoffs. Out of these, we are already done with 52 matches and only four are left and still, two of these four spots are up for the grab and five teams are very well in the race.

So it’s all boils down to final four matches and any combination of two teams out of these five can make it to the next round, basis overall outcome of these four matches.

The fate of only three times has been frozen till now - Hyderabad and Chennai are in the next round and Delhi have been knocked off. Rest five teams are still toiling, wondering and supplicating for a bit of luck as well.

It has been one of the most tightly contested IPLs so far. There has been a continuous swing in the momentum, as by and large it is the fight among the equals. Guessing the outcome is a dangerous business in this scenario and please do this at your own risk.&nbsp;

Take the example of the match between Chennai and Delhi on 18th May 2018. How many of us would have thought that down and dejected Delhi team would be able to tame spirited "Yellow Brigade" so comprehensively? The handful of them, I believe.

I would still take risk of guessing and will put my money on Kolkata, Mumbai and Bangalore for the playoffs. Kolkata team is playing reasonably well as a unit and currently, they have 14 points under their belt.

One victory in the last match would send them to the playoffs, irrespective of the outcome of other matches. Rest four teams in the fray are having 12 points. Besides a victory in the last match, they need a bit of luck to have a better Net Run Rate.

Bangalore and Mumbai have recovered well after a poor run during the middle of the tournament and current favourite for playoffs birth because of the recent momentum.

Mumbai's run is somewhat reminiscent of their run in 2015 when they came back from the bottom threshold and ultimately won the championship. The good news for Mumbai is that Kieron Pollard is back in the form.

Virat-led Bangalore team has defeated the table topper Hyderabad in their previous match and that must have given them the much-needed self-belief.

AB de Villiers is batting well and captain Kohli can always turn things around with the bat. Umesh Yadav and Chahal are bowling well and they have managed Kohli’s bowling worries to an extent.

Jos Buttler has been the star of the season of Rajasthan team. He would no longer be available with for today's game and this is really a bad news for the side.

Punjab on other hand is over dependant on KL Rahul for runs. Their other stalwarts Cris Gayle, Yuvraj Singh and Karun Nair are struggling and that has made things difficult for the side.

Nonetheless, let’s fasten for seat belt this weekend for four livewire matches in IPL-2018. Rest assured all five teams would play out of their skin in their last league match.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

56 matches were slated to decide four qualifiers for the playoffs. Out of these, we are already done with 52 matches and only four are left and still, two of these four spots are up for the grab and five teams are very well in the race

How often do you see such stiff competition among teams to qualify for the next round of the tournament as you are witnessing this in the IPL 2018? Now take this fact. During the round-robin stage total, 56 matches were slated to decide four qualifiers for the playoffs. Out of these, we are already done with 52 matches and only four are left and still, two of these four spots are up for the grab and five teams are very well in the race. So it’s all boils down to final four matches and any combination of two teams out of these five can make it to the next round, basis overall outcome of these four matches. The fate of only three times has been frozen till now - Hyderabad and Chennai are in the next round and Delhi have been knocked off. Rest five teams are still toiling, wondering and supplicating for a bit of luck as well. It has been one of the most tightly contested IPLs so far. There has been a continuous swing in the momentum, as by and large it is the fight among the equals. Guessing the outcome is a dangerous business in this scenario and please do this at your own risk. Take the example of the match between Chennai and Delhi on 18th May 2018. How many of us would have thought that down and dejected Delhi team would be able to tame spirited "Yellow Brigade" so comprehensively? The handful of them, I believe. I would still take risk of guessing and will put my money on Kolkata, Mumbai and Bangalore for the playoffs. Kolkata team is playing reasonably well as a unit and currently, they have 14 points under their belt. One victory in the last match would send them to the playoffs, irrespective of the outcome of other matches. Rest four teams in the fray are having 12 points. Besides a victory in the last match, they need a bit of luck to have a better Net Run Rate. Bangalore and Mumbai have recovered well after a poor run during the middle of the tournament and current favourite for playoffs birth because of the recent momentum. Mumbai's run is somewhat reminiscent of their run in 2015 when they came back from the bottom threshold and ultimately won the championship. The good news for Mumbai is that Kieron Pollard is back in the form. Virat-led Bangalore team has defeated the table topper Hyderabad in their previous match and that must have given them the much-needed self-belief. AB de Villiers is batting well and captain Kohli can always turn things around with the bat. Umesh Yadav and Chahal are bowling well and they have managed Kohli’s bowling worries to an extent. Jos Buttler has been the star of the season of Rajasthan team. He would no longer be available with for today's game and this is really a bad news for the side. Punjab on other hand is over dependant on KL Rahul for runs. Their other stalwarts Cris Gayle, Yuvraj Singh and Karun Nair are struggling and that has made things difficult for the side. Nonetheless, let’s fasten for seat belt this weekend for four livewire matches in IPL-2018. Rest assured all five teams would play out of their skin in their last league match. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: IPL 2018 - Be ready for the livewire action this weekend

Table toppers Hyderabad will lock horns with Kolkata at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. Kolkata have a two-point advantage over the other teams that are in the race for playoffs.

The do and die clash for Kolkata will not be easy as hosts Hyderabad will play all the available cards to win tonight's match in order to remain at the top of the league's table.

Despite coming off from a defeat, Hyderabad are riding on confidence because of their impressive showing in the season so far.

Skipper Kane Williamson has led the side from the front, and he will look to do it again besides other batsmen like Shikhar Dhawan and Manish Pandey.

For Kolkata, Dinesh Karthik too has taken the responsibility of the entire team in crucial occasions.

Also, Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Andre Russell are in good form.

Hyderabad might consider replacing Basil Thampi with Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Bhuvi who did not play the last game could be back alongside Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul and Shakib Al Hasan to strengthen the bowling unit.

The likes of Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine and skipper Dinesh Karthik will hold the key to KKR's fortunes.

Playing XI (TBC):

Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Alex Hales, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Shakib Al Hasan, Shreevats Goswami(w), Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Andre Russell, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav

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Table toppers Hyderabad will lock horns with Kolkata at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday

Table toppers Hyderabad will lock horns with Kolkata at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. Kolkata have a two-point advantage over the other teams that are in the race for playoffs. The do and die clash for Kolkata will not be easy as hosts Hyderabad will play all the available cards to win tonight's match in order to remain at the top of the league's table. Despite coming off from a defeat, Hyderabad are riding on confidence because of their impressive showing in the season so far. Skipper Kane Williamson has led the side from the front, and he will look to do it again besides other batsmen like Shikhar Dhawan and Manish Pandey. For Kolkata, Dinesh Karthik too has taken the responsibility of the entire team in crucial occasions. Also, Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Andre Russell are in good form. Hyderabad might consider replacing Basil Thampi with Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Bhuvi who did not play the last game could be back alongside Rashid Khan, Siddarth Kaul and Shakib Al Hasan to strengthen the bowling unit. The likes of Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine and skipper Dinesh Karthik will hold the key to KKR's fortunes. Playing XI (TBC): Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Alex Hales, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Shakib Al Hasan, Shreevats Goswami(w), Rashid Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Andre Russell, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav ×

IPL 2018: Match preview of Hyderabad vs Kolkata

Kolkata defeated Rajasthan by six wickets to save their chances of making it to the play-offs in the ongoing Indian premier league (IPL).

Skipper Dinesh Karthik remained unbeaten on 41 as Kolkata moved to third place with 14 points in their kitty.

Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine opened for the franchise and gave them the required start.

Narine smashed 21 runs in just 7 balls which included two boundaries and two sixes.&nbsp

However, it is Ben Stokes who had put a full stop to his inning today.

Chris Lynn continued the attack and made 45 runs before being dismissed by Stokes.

It was then that Karthik played a skipper's knock and took his team to victory side. &nbsp

Earlier, Kuldeep Yadav bowled a fantastic spell and took four wickets to end Rajasthan's inning for mere 142 runs at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Put into bat, Rajasthan got a great start as openers Jos Buttler and Rahul Tripathi began attacking the Kolkata bowlers from the first ball.&nbsp

They together established a partnership of 63 runs before Rahul Tripathi lost his wicket to Russell after making 27 runs.&nbsp

In-form Buttler continued his attack but also lost his wicket soon to &nbspKuldeep Yadav after contributing 39 runs in just 22 balls.

His inning included five boundaries and two huge sixes.

However, it was the downline which failed to capitalise the start as skipper Ajinklya Rahane was clean bowled by Yadav on 11 runs.

Yadav struck again and dismissed Ben Stokes and Stuart Binny for 11 and 1 respectively.

Apart from Yadav, Andre Russell and Prasidh Krishna took two wickets each.&nbsp

Shivam Mavi and Sunil Narine managed to take one wicket apiece.

Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to field against Ajinkya Rahane-led side.&nbsp

Karthik believed that his team has performed well while chasing the targets in previous clashes, so taking advantage of the toss would benefit the Knights.

On the other hand, Anjinkya Rahane said that he is happy to bat first in the do-or-die match.

For Rajasthan, Ish Sodhi, Anureet Singh and Rahul Tripathi have included in the squad.

For Kolkata, Shuvam Mavi is fit and healthy but Piyush Chawla is out over some health issues. 
&nbsp

Skipper Dinesh Karthik remained unbeaten on 41 as Kolkata moved to third place with 14 points in their kitty

Kolkata defeated Rajasthan by six wickets to save their chances of making it to the play-offs in the ongoing Indian premier league (IPL). Skipper Dinesh Karthik remained unbeaten on 41 as Kolkata moved to third place with 14 points in their kitty. Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine opened for the franchise and gave them the required start. Narine smashed 21 runs in just 7 balls which included two boundaries and two sixes. However, it is Ben Stokes who had put a full stop to his inning today. Chris Lynn continued the attack and made 45 runs before being dismissed by Stokes. It was then that Karthik played a skipper's knock and took his team to victory side. Earlier, Kuldeep Yadav bowled a fantastic spell and took four wickets to end Rajasthan's inning for mere 142 runs at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Put into bat, Rajasthan got a great start as openers Jos Buttler and Rahul Tripathi began attacking the Kolkata bowlers from the first ball. They together established a partnership of 63 runs before Rahul Tripathi lost his wicket to Russell after making 27 runs. In-form Buttler continued his attack but also lost his wicket soon to &nbspKuldeep Yadav after contributing 39 runs in just 22 balls. His inning included five boundaries and two huge sixes. However, it was the downline which failed to capitalise the start as skipper Ajinklya Rahane was clean bowled by Yadav on 11 runs. Yadav struck again and dismissed Ben Stokes and Stuart Binny for 11 and 1 respectively. Apart from Yadav, Andre Russell and Prasidh Krishna took two wickets each. Shivam Mavi and Sunil Narine managed to take one wicket apiece. Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to field against Ajinkya Rahane-led side. Karthik believed that his team has performed well while chasing the targets in previous clashes, so taking advantage of the toss would benefit the Knights. On the other hand, Anjinkya Rahane said that he is happy to bat first in the do-or-die match. For Rajasthan, Ish Sodhi, Anureet Singh and Rahul Tripathi have included in the squad. For Kolkata, Shuvam Mavi is fit and healthy but Piyush Chawla is out over some health issues.

IPL 2018: Kolkata cruise to six-wicket win against Rajasthan

Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to field at the Eden Gardens stadium on Tuesday.

Karthik believed that his team has performed well while chasing the targets in previous clashes, so taking advantage of the toss would benefit the Knights.

On the other hand, Anjinkya Rahane said that he is happy to bat first in the do-or-die match.

For Rajasthan, Ish Sodhi, Anureet Singh and Rahul Tripathi have included in the squad.

For Kolkata, Shuvam Mavi is fit and healthy but Piyush Chawla is out over some health issues.

Playing XI:

Rajasthan: Jos Buttler(w), Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jaydev Unadkat, Ish Sodhi, Anureet Singh

Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Andre Russell, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav

For Rajasthan, Ish Sodhi, Anureet Singh and Rahul Tripathi have included in the squad

Dinesh Karthik won the toss and opted to field at the Eden Gardens stadium on Tuesday. Karthik believed that his team has performed well while chasing the targets in previous clashes, so taking advantage of the toss would benefit the Knights. On the other hand, Anjinkya Rahane said that he is happy to bat first in the do-or-die match. For Rajasthan, Ish Sodhi, Anureet Singh and Rahul Tripathi have included in the squad. For Kolkata, Shuvam Mavi is fit and healthy but Piyush Chawla is out over some health issues. Playing XI: Rajasthan: Jos Buttler(w), Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jaydev Unadkat, Ish Sodhi, Anureet Singh Kolkata: Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Andre Russell, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Javon Searles, Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav

IPL 2018: Dinesh Karthik opts to bowl against Rajasthan

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata will host Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan at the Eden Gardens stadium on Tuesday.

Hyderabad and Chennai have already qualified for the play-offs and the fight is for the other two empty spots.

No doubt Kolkata won the previous match but the team lacks consistency especially the team's performance in previous few clashes.

The team is hugely dependent on the overseas trio of Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn and Andre Russell. Although, skipper Dinesh Karthik has bailed the team out in most of the crucial situations.

Robin Uthappa has been on and off, also Shubman Gill hasn't played a match-winning inning so far.

Eden Garden stadium is a batsmen paradise, hence, a high scoring match is expected between Kolkata and Rajasthan.

On the other hand, even Rajasthan have faced issues with middle batting order but the team has bounced back in the ongoing tournament and emerging as one of the top contenders to march past into the play-off.

All thanks to the star batsman Jos Buttler, Rajasthan have won the previous three matches and currently riding high on confidence.

The pitch will support the spinners and little bit showers are expected at the Eden Gardens stadium.

Playing XI (TBC):

Kolkata: Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik (c & wk), Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Tom Curran, Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Mavi and Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna.

Rajasthan: D'Arcy Short, Jos Buttler (wk), Ajinkya Rahane (c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Krishnappa Gowtham, Shreyas Gopal, Jaydev Unadkat, Dhawal Kulkarni.

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata will host Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan at the Eden Gardens stadium

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata will host Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan at the Eden Gardens stadium on Tuesday. Hyderabad and Chennai have already qualified for the play-offs and the fight is for the other two empty spots. No doubt Kolkata won the previous match but the team lacks consistency especially the team's performance in previous few clashes. The team is hugely dependent on the overseas trio of Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn and Andre Russell. Although, skipper Dinesh Karthik has bailed the team out in most of the crucial situations. Robin Uthappa has been on and off, also Shubman Gill hasn't played a match-winning inning so far. Eden Garden stadium is a batsmen paradise, hence, a high scoring match is expected between Kolkata and Rajasthan. On the other hand, even Rajasthan have faced issues with middle batting order but the team has bounced back in the ongoing tournament and emerging as one of the top contenders to march past into the play-off. All thanks to the star batsman Jos Buttler, Rajasthan have won the previous three matches and currently riding high on confidence. The pitch will support the spinners and little bit showers are expected at the Eden Gardens stadium. Playing XI (TBC): Kolkata: Sunil Narine, Chris Lynn, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik (c & wk), Andre Russell, Shubman Gill, Tom Curran, Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Mavi and Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna. Rajasthan: D'Arcy Short, Jos Buttler (wk), Ajinkya Rahane (c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Stuart Binny, Jofra Archer, Krishnappa Gowtham, Shreyas Gopal, Jaydev Unadkat, Dhawal Kulkarni.

IPL 2018: Match preview of Rajasthan and Kolkata

Despite getting a superb start by openers KL Rahul and Chris Gayle, Punjab failed to capitalise the start and fell 31 runs short while chasing a mammoth target of 245 runs at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Saturday.

KL Rahul rose to the occasion and slammed 66 runs in just 29 balls which included two boundaries and seven sixes. &nbsp;

Run machine Gayle also contributed 21 runs before being dismissed off Russell.

But it was the downline which failed to continue the momentum as Karun Nair and Mayank Aggarwal was dismissed very cheaply.&nbsp;

While Mayank failed open his account, Nair was sent back to the pavilion after making just three runs.&nbsp;

Skipper Ravichandran Ashwin played a perfect cameo to lift Punjab from crises.&nbsp;

He slammed four boundaries and three huge sixes to reach 45 in just 22 balls.&nbsp;

Aaron Finch also made 34 runs but failed to stay on the crease for long.&nbsp;

Put into bat, Kolkata had set mammoth 245 runs on board against Punjab, to save their chances of qualifying for the play-offs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).

Sunil Narine and Chris Lynn opened for Kolkata and were in attack position from the very first bowl.

Narine took the wheels in his hand after Lynn departed after contributing just 27 runs.

He played a blistering knock of 75 runs in 36 balls which included nine boundaries and four sixes, before being sent back to the pavilion.

Skipper Dinesh Karthik also slammed a half-century in just 23. His inning included five fours and three sixes.

The downline was in terrific form as every batsman contributed today.

Robin Uthappa and Andre Russell too made 24 and 31 runs respectively, in 17 and 14 balls.

For Punjab, Axar Patel was the most expensive bowler as he gave 52 runs in four overs bowled and did not take any wicket.

Earlier, &nbsp;Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin on Saturday won the toss and opted to field against Kolkata.&nbsp;

Both the sides came off a defeat and seemed desperate to bring their campaign back on winning ways.

Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter as the Rohit Sharma-led side registered a thumping 102-run victory over them.&nbsp;

Punjab too, suffered a narrow 15-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in their last outing.

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Talking about their strategy for today, Ashwin said, "We'll bowl first. It's a small ground and difficult to defend, so we'll try to chase it down. It's a day game and it's dried up a bit. Previous games were sticky but this one is expected to stay the same."

"We are sticking to our old combination. We have brought Agarwal in for Nath, Sran for Tiwary and Finch for Stoinis," he added.

When asked about their strategy, skipper Dinesh Karthik said, "One team has to bat first. We'll try to make the most of the opportunity. Just one change for us, Searles comes in for Curran."

"We are sticking to the same team as I am someone who believes to stick to one team and believe in the boys. So we are sticking to the same XI with just one change."

While Punjab acquires third place with 12 points, Kolkata are placed fifth in the league table with 10 points.

Teams:

Punjab (Playing XI): Chris Gayle, Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Aaron Finch, Karun Nair, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Barinder Sran, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

KL Rahul rose to the occasion and slammed 66 runs in just 29 balls

Despite getting a superb start by openers KL Rahul and Chris Gayle, Punjab failed to capitalise the start and fell 31 runs short while chasing a mammoth target of 245 runs at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Saturday. KL Rahul rose to the occasion and slammed 66 runs in just 29 balls which included two boundaries and seven sixes. Run machine Gayle also contributed 21 runs before being dismissed off Russell. But it was the downline which failed to continue the momentum as Karun Nair and Mayank Aggarwal was dismissed very cheaply. While Mayank failed open his account, Nair was sent back to the pavilion after making just three runs. Skipper Ravichandran Ashwin played a perfect cameo to lift Punjab from crises. He slammed four boundaries and three huge sixes to reach 45 in just 22 balls. Aaron Finch also made 34 runs but failed to stay on the crease for long. Put into bat, Kolkata had set mammoth 245 runs on board against Punjab, to save their chances of qualifying for the play-offs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Sunil Narine and Chris Lynn opened for Kolkata and were in attack position from the very first bowl. Narine took the wheels in his hand after Lynn departed after contributing just 27 runs. He played a blistering knock of 75 runs in 36 balls which included nine boundaries and four sixes, before being sent back to the pavilion. Skipper Dinesh Karthik also slammed a half-century in just 23. His inning included five fours and three sixes. The downline was in terrific form as every batsman contributed today. Robin Uthappa and Andre Russell too made 24 and 31 runs respectively, in 17 and 14 balls. For Punjab, Axar Patel was the most expensive bowler as he gave 52 runs in four overs bowled and did not take any wicket. Earlier, Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin on Saturday won the toss and opted to field against Kolkata. Both the sides came off a defeat and seemed desperate to bring their campaign back on winning ways. Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter as the Rohit Sharma-led side registered a thumping 102-run victory over them. Punjab too, suffered a narrow 15-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in their last outing. × Talking about their strategy for today, Ashwin said, "We'll bowl first. It's a small ground and difficult to defend, so we'll try to chase it down. It's a day game and it's dried up a bit. Previous games were sticky but this one is expected to stay the same." "We are sticking to our old combination. We have brought Agarwal in for Nath, Sran for Tiwary and Finch for Stoinis," he added. When asked about their strategy, skipper Dinesh Karthik said, "One team has to bat first. We'll try to make the most of the opportunity. Just one change for us, Searles comes in for Curran." "We are sticking to the same team as I am someone who believes to stick to one team and believe in the boys. So we are sticking to the same XI with just one change." While Punjab acquires third place with 12 points, Kolkata are placed fifth in the league table with 10 points. Teams: Punjab (Playing XI): Chris Gayle, Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Aaron Finch, Karun Nair, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Barinder Sran, Mujeeb Ur Rahman Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

IPL 2018: Punjab lose by 31 runs while chasing Kolkata's 246

A brand new railway line will reduce the travel time between Agartala and Kolkata by 21 hours. The 12.3 km Akhaura rail line will pass through Bangladesh's capital Dhaka instead of Guwahati, Assam.

The present line will go to Akhaura which is linked to Dhaka Chittagong rail route and is expected to get operational by 2020.

At present, the travel time between the two cities is over 30 hours which will now be cut down to just 10 hours.

The total distance covered by the train will also be slashed to half from 1600kms to a mere 550 km.

India and Bangladesh have four operational rail links between West Bengal and Western Bangladesh.

"Kolkata is a major destination for people in this area, but as of now there was no direct connectivity to the city. The line will help not only people from Agartala but also those from Mizoram which is 150 km away," Chief engineer of the Rs 570 crore project M S Chauhan said.

The railway line is expected to facilitate freight movement. Goods from the northeastern state can now reach Kolkata in one third the time.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp

At present, the travel time between the two cities is over 30 hours which will now be cut down to just 10 hours

A brand new railway line will reduce the travel time between Agartala and Kolkata by 21 hours. The 12.3 km Akhaura rail line will pass through Bangladesh's capital Dhaka instead of Guwahati, Assam. The present line will go to Akhaura which is linked to Dhaka Chittagong rail route and is expected to get operational by 2020. At present, the travel time between the two cities is over 30 hours which will now be cut down to just 10 hours. The total distance covered by the train will also be slashed to half from 1600kms to a mere 550 km. India and Bangladesh have four operational rail links between West Bengal and Western Bangladesh. "Kolkata is a major destination for people in this area, but as of now there was no direct connectivity to the city. The line will help not only people from Agartala but also those from Mizoram which is 150 km away," Chief engineer of the Rs 570 crore project M S Chauhan said. The railway line is expected to facilitate freight movement. Goods from the northeastern state can now reach Kolkata in one third the time. (With inputs from PTI)

Travel time between Agartala, Kolkata to reduce by more than half

Put into bat, Kolkata had set mammoth 245 runs on board against Punjab, to save their chances of qualifying for the play-offs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).

Sunil Narine and Chris Lynn opened for Kolkata and were in attacking position from the very first ball.

Narine took the wheels in his hand after Lynn departed after contributing just 27 runs.

He played a blistering knock of 75 runs in 36 balls which included nine boundaries and four sixes, before being sent back to the pavilion.

Skipper Dinesh Karthik also slammed a half-century in just 23. His inning included five fours and three sixes.

The downline was in terrific form as every batsman contributed today.

Robin Uthappa and Andre Russell too made 24 and 31 runs respectively, in 17 and 14 balls.

For Punjab, Axar Patel was the most expensive bowler as he gave 52 runs in four overs bowled and did not take any wicket.

Earlier, &nbsp;Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin on Saturday won the toss and opted to field against Kolkata at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Saturday.

Both the sides are coming off a defeat and will be desperate to bring their campaign back on winning ways.

Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter as the Rohit Sharma-led side registered a thumping 102-run victory over them.&nbsp;

Punjab too, suffered a narrow 15-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in their last outing.

Talking about their strategy for today, Ashwin said, "We'll bowl first. It's a small ground and difficult to defend, so we'll try to chase it down. It's a day game and it's dried up a bit. Previous games were sticky but this one is expected to stay the same."

"We are sticking to our old combination. We have brought Agarwal in for Nath, Sran for Tiwary and Finch for Stoinis," he added.

When asked about their strategy, skipper Dinesh Karthik said, "One team has to bat first. We'll try to make the most of the opportunity. Just one change for us, Searles comes in for Curran."

"We are sticking to the same team as I am someone who believes to stick to one team and believe in the boys. So we are sticking to the same XI with just one change."

While Punjab acquires third place with 12 points, Kolkata are placed fifth in the league table with 10 points.

Teams:

Punjab (Playing XI): Chris Gayle, Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Aaron Finch, Karun Nair, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Barinder Sran, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav 
&nbsp;

Sunil Narine and Chris Lynn opened for Kolkata

Put into bat, Kolkata had set mammoth 245 runs on board against Punjab, to save their chances of qualifying for the play-offs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Sunil Narine and Chris Lynn opened for Kolkata and were in attacking position from the very first ball. Narine took the wheels in his hand after Lynn departed after contributing just 27 runs. He played a blistering knock of 75 runs in 36 balls which included nine boundaries and four sixes, before being sent back to the pavilion. Skipper Dinesh Karthik also slammed a half-century in just 23. His inning included five fours and three sixes. The downline was in terrific form as every batsman contributed today. Robin Uthappa and Andre Russell too made 24 and 31 runs respectively, in 17 and 14 balls. For Punjab, Axar Patel was the most expensive bowler as he gave 52 runs in four overs bowled and did not take any wicket. Earlier, Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin on Saturday won the toss and opted to field against Kolkata at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Saturday. Both the sides are coming off a defeat and will be desperate to bring their campaign back on winning ways. Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter as the Rohit Sharma-led side registered a thumping 102-run victory over them. Punjab too, suffered a narrow 15-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in their last outing. Talking about their strategy for today, Ashwin said, "We'll bowl first. It's a small ground and difficult to defend, so we'll try to chase it down. It's a day game and it's dried up a bit. Previous games were sticky but this one is expected to stay the same." "We are sticking to our old combination. We have brought Agarwal in for Nath, Sran for Tiwary and Finch for Stoinis," he added. When asked about their strategy, skipper Dinesh Karthik said, "One team has to bat first. We'll try to make the most of the opportunity. Just one change for us, Searles comes in for Curran." "We are sticking to the same team as I am someone who believes to stick to one team and believe in the boys. So we are sticking to the same XI with just one change." While Punjab acquires third place with 12 points, Kolkata are placed fifth in the league table with 10 points. Teams: Punjab (Playing XI): Chris Gayle, Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Aaron Finch, Karun Nair, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Barinder Sran, Mujeeb Ur Rahman Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

IPL 2018: Narine, Karthik guide Kolkata to massive 245

Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin on Saturday won the toss and opted yo filed against Kolkata at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Saturday.

Both the sides are coming off a defeat and will be desperate to bring their campaign back on winning ways.

Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter as the Rohit Sharma-led side registered a thumping 102-run victory over them.&nbsp;

Punjab too, suffered a narrow 15-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in their last outing.

Talking about their strategy for today, Ashwin said, "We'll bowl first. It's a small ground and difficult to defend, so we'll try to chase it down. It's a day game and it's dried up a bit. Previous games were sticky but this one is expected to stay the same."

"We are sticking to our old combination. We have brought Agarwal in for Nath, Sran for Tiwary and Finch for Stoinis," he added.

When asked about their strategy, skipper Dinesh Karthik said, "One team has to bat first. We'll try to make the most of the opportunity. Just one change for us, Searles comes in for Curran."

"We are sticking to the same team as I am someone who believes to stick to one team and believe in the boys. So we are sticking to the same XI with just one change."

While Punjab acquires third place with 12 points, Kolkata are placed fifth in the league table with 10 points.

Teams:

Punjab (Playing XI): Chris Gayle, Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Aaron Finch, Karun Nair, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Barinder Sran, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter

Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin on Saturday won the toss and opted yo filed against Kolkata at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Saturday. Both the sides are coming off a defeat and will be desperate to bring their campaign back on winning ways. Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter as the Rohit Sharma-led side registered a thumping 102-run victory over them. Punjab too, suffered a narrow 15-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in their last outing. Talking about their strategy for today, Ashwin said, "We'll bowl first. It's a small ground and difficult to defend, so we'll try to chase it down. It's a day game and it's dried up a bit. Previous games were sticky but this one is expected to stay the same." "We are sticking to our old combination. We have brought Agarwal in for Nath, Sran for Tiwary and Finch for Stoinis," he added. When asked about their strategy, skipper Dinesh Karthik said, "One team has to bat first. We'll try to make the most of the opportunity. Just one change for us, Searles comes in for Curran." "We are sticking to the same team as I am someone who believes to stick to one team and believe in the boys. So we are sticking to the same XI with just one change." While Punjab acquires third place with 12 points, Kolkata are placed fifth in the league table with 10 points. Teams: Punjab (Playing XI): Chris Gayle, Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Aaron Finch, Karun Nair, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Barinder Sran, Mujeeb Ur Rahman Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Andre Russell, Javon Searles, Piyush Chawla, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

IPL 2018: R Ashwin wins toss, opts to bowl against Kolkata

Punjab will aim to strengthen their position in the top three of the Indian Premier League (IPL) points table when they take on Kolkata at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Saturday.

Both the sides are coming off a defeat and will be desperate to return to winning ways.&nbsp

While Punjab acquires third place with 12 points, Kolkata are placed fifth in the league table with 10 points.

Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter as the Rohit Sharma-led side registered a thumping 102-run victory over them.&nbsp

Punjab too, suffered a narrow 15-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in their last outing.

Punjab's batting mostly relies on openers Chris Gayle and Lokesh Rahul as the duo have accumulated 471 and 311 runs respectively.&nbsp

In the match against Rajasthan, when all of the Punjab batters failed to fire, Rahul rose to the occasion smashing an unbeaten 95 off 70 balls.

Veteran Yuvraj Singh, Aaron Finch and Mayank Agarwal are yet to make their presence felt in the middle-order for the franchise.

The trio's poor form will be a major cause of concern for the team management and it is high time for them to come out with their best.&nbsp

In the bowling department, skipper Ravichandran Ashwin and medium-pacer Mohit Sharma add depth to the line-up.

Also, pacers Barinder Sran and Andrew Tye, and Afghan spinner Mujeeb ur Rahman shoulder the bulk of the responsibility.&nbsp

While Australian Tye has 16 wickets from eight games, pacer Ankit Rajpoot and Mujeeb Ur Rahman have eight and 14 wickets each.

On the other hand, Kolkata will need to put behind their humiliating loss to Mumbai and come together as a unit if they want to seal a play-off berth.&nbsp

For the men-in-purple, openers Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine have failed to perform consistently.&nbsp

Skipper Dinesh Karthik has been the only consistent batsman with the willow, amassing 321 runs from 11 matches.

Vice-captain Robin Uthappa will have to come up with an extraordinary show to help his side inch forward along with the misfiring middle order.&nbsp

Overall, Punjab has a slightly better chance in today's game over Kolkata. 
&nbsp

Both the sides are coming off a defeat and will be desperate to return to winning ways.

Punjab will aim to strengthen their position in the top three of the Indian Premier League (IPL) points table when they take on Kolkata at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore on Saturday. Both the sides are coming off a defeat and will be desperate to return to winning ways. While Punjab acquires third place with 12 points, Kolkata are placed fifth in the league table with 10 points. Kolkata were hammered by Mumbai in their last encounter as the Rohit Sharma-led side registered a thumping 102-run victory over them. Punjab too, suffered a narrow 15-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in their last outing. Punjab's batting mostly relies on openers Chris Gayle and Lokesh Rahul as the duo have accumulated 471 and 311 runs respectively. In the match against Rajasthan, when all of the Punjab batters failed to fire, Rahul rose to the occasion smashing an unbeaten 95 off 70 balls. Veteran Yuvraj Singh, Aaron Finch and Mayank Agarwal are yet to make their presence felt in the middle-order for the franchise. The trio's poor form will be a major cause of concern for the team management and it is high time for them to come out with their best. In the bowling department, skipper Ravichandran Ashwin and medium-pacer Mohit Sharma add depth to the line-up. Also, pacers Barinder Sran and Andrew Tye, and Afghan spinner Mujeeb ur Rahman shoulder the bulk of the responsibility. While Australian Tye has 16 wickets from eight games, pacer Ankit Rajpoot and Mujeeb Ur Rahman have eight and 14 wickets each. On the other hand, Kolkata will need to put behind their humiliating loss to Mumbai and come together as a unit if they want to seal a play-off berth. For the men-in-purple, openers Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine have failed to perform consistently. Skipper Dinesh Karthik has been the only consistent batsman with the willow, amassing 321 runs from 11 matches. Vice-captain Robin Uthappa will have to come up with an extraordinary show to help his side inch forward along with the misfiring middle order. Overall, Punjab has a slightly better chance in today's game over Kolkata.

IPL 2018: Match Preview of Punjab vs Kolkata

Put into bat, Mumbai scored 210 for the loss of six wickets in their Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Kolkata on Thursday.&nbsp;

Ishan Kishan played an unbelievable knock fo 21-ball 62 runs to help his team set a mammoth target in order to keep their play-off hopes alive.&nbsp;

His innings included five boundaries and six sixes.

Openers Suryakumar Yadav and Evin Lewis gave their team a decent start with the two establishing a partnership of 46 runs before Lewis gave away his wicket to Piyush Chawla.

Chawal struck again from his team to dismiss Yadav at 36 runs.&nbsp;

Skipper Rohit Sharma also contributed 36 runs off 31 balls before giving away his wicket to Prasidh Krishna.

For Kolkata, Piyush Chawl took three crucial wickets in his four overs bowled.&nbsp;

Earlier, Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field against Mumbai.

In their previous encounter, Mumbai won the last game by 13 runs.

Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat before they managed to pull through in the previous two games.

"We would have bowled first as well. But we are batting now, the last time we played against these guys in Mumbai we posted a decent total. Nothing changes for us and we'll try to do the same against them tonight," Rohit said.

"I think we are playing with the same squad as it's important to back the guys. We have been playing some good cricket of late and hope to come up with a good performance again," he added.

Against Punjab, it was a Rohit and Krunal Pandya blitz that kept them alive in the play-off competition. A challenging 181/4 coupled with well-directed short balls during Kolkata's chase helped Mumbai stay afloat.&nbsp;

Kolkata, on the other hand, were not at full strength against Mumbai in their away game, with young pacer Shivam Mavi's injured finger joining the team's long list of injuries this season.&nbsp;

Talking about their strategy for today, Karthik said, "We are gonna bowl first. It's a good wicket to bat on. Will remain the same. We thought we'll make use of it second time."

"That was a team of the past (about the record against MI). We are starting fresh and we have new set of boys. We are two good teams and we expect a good match. We have two changes, Shubman Gill is injured and Rinku Singh comes in. Tom Curran is in for Mitchell Johnson," he added.

Teams:

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Tom Curran, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Mumbai (Playing XI): Suryakumar Yadav, Evin Lewis, Rohit Sharma(c), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Jean-Paul Duminy, Ishan Kishan(w), Ben Cutting, Mitchell McClenaghan, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah 
&nbsp;

Ishan Kishan played an unbelievable knock fo 21-ball 62 runs

Put into bat, Mumbai scored 210 for the loss of six wickets in their Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Kolkata on Thursday. Ishan Kishan played an unbelievable knock fo 21-ball 62 runs to help his team set a mammoth target in order to keep their play-off hopes alive. His innings included five boundaries and six sixes. Openers Suryakumar Yadav and Evin Lewis gave their team a decent start with the two establishing a partnership of 46 runs before Lewis gave away his wicket to Piyush Chawla. Chawal struck again from his team to dismiss Yadav at 36 runs. Skipper Rohit Sharma also contributed 36 runs off 31 balls before giving away his wicket to Prasidh Krishna. For Kolkata, Piyush Chawl took three crucial wickets in his four overs bowled. Earlier, Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field against Mumbai. In their previous encounter, Mumbai won the last game by 13 runs. Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat before they managed to pull through in the previous two games. "We would have bowled first as well. But we are batting now, the last time we played against these guys in Mumbai we posted a decent total. Nothing changes for us and we'll try to do the same against them tonight," Rohit said. "I think we are playing with the same squad as it's important to back the guys. We have been playing some good cricket of late and hope to come up with a good performance again," he added. Against Punjab, it was a Rohit and Krunal Pandya blitz that kept them alive in the play-off competition. A challenging 181/4 coupled with well-directed short balls during Kolkata's chase helped Mumbai stay afloat. Kolkata, on the other hand, were not at full strength against Mumbai in their away game, with young pacer Shivam Mavi's injured finger joining the team's long list of injuries this season. Talking about their strategy for today, Karthik said, "We are gonna bowl first. It's a good wicket to bat on. Will remain the same. We thought we'll make use of it second time." "That was a team of the past (about the record against MI). We are starting fresh and we have new set of boys. We are two good teams and we expect a good match. We have two changes, Shubman Gill is injured and Rinku Singh comes in. Tom Curran is in for Mitchell Johnson," he added. Teams: Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Tom Curran, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Mumbai (Playing XI): Suryakumar Yadav, Evin Lewis, Rohit Sharma(c), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Jean-Paul Duminy, Ishan Kishan(w), Ben Cutting, Mitchell McClenaghan, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah

IPL 2018: Mumbai score 210 runs against Kolkata

Kolkata collapsed for just 108 runs while chasing a mammoth target of 211 set by Mumbai on Thursday.&nbsp;

A couple of run-outs and a few poor shots&nbsp;got Kolkata into deep trouble.

Chris Lynn and Nitish Rana became the top scorers by contributing 21 runs each.

The rest of the team gave away their wickets after playing a few poor shots.&nbsp;

For Mumbai, Pandya brothers clinched four wickets together with each bowler taking two wickets.&nbsp;

Ishan Kishan played an unbelievable knock fo 21 ball 62 runs to help his team set a mammoth target in order to keep their play-off hopes alive.&nbsp;

His innings included five boundaries and six sixes.

Openers Suryakumar Yadav and Evin Lewis gave their team a decent start with the two establishing a partnership of 46 runs before Lewis gave away his wicket to Piyush Chawla.

Chawal struck again from his team to dismiss Yadav at 36 runs.&nbsp;

Skipper Rohit Sharma also contributed 36 runs off 31 balls before giving away his wicket to Prasidh Krishna.

For Kolkata, Piyush Chawl took three crucial wickets in his four overs bowled.&nbsp;

Earlier, Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field against Mumbai.

In their previous encounter, Mumbai won the last game by 13 runs.

Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat before they managed to pull through in the previous two games.

"We would have bowled first as well. But we are batting now, the last time we played against these guys in Mumbai we posted a decent total. Nothing changes for us and we'll try to do the same against them tonight," Rohit said.

"I think we are playing with the same squad as it's important to back the guys. We have been playing some good cricket of late and hope to come up with a good performance again," he added.

Against Punjab, it was a Rohit and Krunal Pandya blitz that kept them alive in the play-off competition. A challenging 181/4 coupled with well-directed short balls during Kolkata's chase helped Mumbai stay afloat.&nbsp;

Kolkata, on the other hand, were not at full strength against Mumbai in their away game, with young pacer Shivam Mavi's injured finger joining the team's long list of injuries this season.&nbsp;

Talking about their strategy for today, Karthik said, "We are gonna bowl first. It's a good wicket to bat on. Will remain the same. We thought we'll make use of it second time."

"That was a team of the past (about the record against MI). We are starting fresh and we have new set of boys. We are two good teams and we expect a good match. We have two changes, Shubman Gill is injured and Rinku Singh comes in. Tom Curran is in for Mitchell Johnson," he added.

Teams:

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Tom Curran, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Mumbai (Playing XI): Suryakumar Yadav, Evin Lewis, Rohit Sharma(c), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Jean-Paul Duminy, Ishan Kishan(w), Ben Cutting, Mitchell McClenaghan, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah 
&nbsp;

A couple of run-outs and a few poor shots got Kolkata into deep trouble

Kolkata collapsed for just 108 runs while chasing a mammoth target of 211 set by Mumbai on Thursday. A couple of run-outs and a few poor shots got Kolkata into deep trouble. Chris Lynn and Nitish Rana became the top scorers by contributing 21 runs each. The rest of the team gave away their wickets after playing a few poor shots. For Mumbai, Pandya brothers clinched four wickets together with each bowler taking two wickets. Ishan Kishan played an unbelievable knock fo 21 ball 62 runs to help his team set a mammoth target in order to keep their play-off hopes alive. His innings included five boundaries and six sixes. Openers Suryakumar Yadav and Evin Lewis gave their team a decent start with the two establishing a partnership of 46 runs before Lewis gave away his wicket to Piyush Chawla. Chawal struck again from his team to dismiss Yadav at 36 runs. Skipper Rohit Sharma also contributed 36 runs off 31 balls before giving away his wicket to Prasidh Krishna. For Kolkata, Piyush Chawl took three crucial wickets in his four overs bowled. Earlier, Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field against Mumbai. In their previous encounter, Mumbai won the last game by 13 runs. Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat before they managed to pull through in the previous two games. "We would have bowled first as well. But we are batting now, the last time we played against these guys in Mumbai we posted a decent total. Nothing changes for us and we'll try to do the same against them tonight," Rohit said. "I think we are playing with the same squad as it's important to back the guys. We have been playing some good cricket of late and hope to come up with a good performance again," he added. Against Punjab, it was a Rohit and Krunal Pandya blitz that kept them alive in the play-off competition. A challenging 181/4 coupled with well-directed short balls during Kolkata's chase helped Mumbai stay afloat. Kolkata, on the other hand, were not at full strength against Mumbai in their away game, with young pacer Shivam Mavi's injured finger joining the team's long list of injuries this season. Talking about their strategy for today, Karthik said, "We are gonna bowl first. It's a good wicket to bat on. Will remain the same. We thought we'll make use of it second time." "That was a team of the past (about the record against MI). We are starting fresh and we have new set of boys. We are two good teams and we expect a good match. We have two changes, Shubman Gill is injured and Rinku Singh comes in. Tom Curran is in for Mitchell Johnson," he added. Teams: Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Tom Curran, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Mumbai (Playing XI): Suryakumar Yadav, Evin Lewis, Rohit Sharma(c), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Jean-Paul Duminy, Ishan Kishan(w), Ben Cutting, Mitchell McClenaghan, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah

IPL 2018: Mumbai bowl out Kolkata for 108, win by 102 runs

Bollywood superstar and Kolkata co-owner Shah Rukh Khan apologised to fans after his team suffered a humiliating 102-run defeat at the hands of Mumbai at Eden Gardens, on Wednesday.&nbsp;

SRK with actress Juhi Chawla had come to Eden Gardens to watch Kolkata's game, yesterday.

Just after their team lost, SRK took to Twitter and wrote an apologetic message to all Kolkata fans.&nbsp;

"Sports is about the spirit and wins/losses don't reflect that. But tonight as the 'Boss' I need to apologise to the fans for the lack of spirit," he wrote.

The win took Rohit Sharma's team to level on points with Kolkata (10 points from 11 games) and fourth in the points table, courtesy to a better net run rate.

Kolkata lost to the same opponents twice in the space of three days, and were dropped to the fifth spot in the league table.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan scored a whirlwind 21-ball 62 to help Mumbai set a mammoth target of 211 runs.

The Dinesh Karthik-led side will next face Punjab on Saturday.&nbsp;

SRK with actress Juhi Chawla had come to Eden Gardens to watch Kolkata's game

Bollywood superstar and Kolkata co-owner Shah Rukh Khan apologised to fans after his team suffered a humiliating 102-run defeat at the hands of Mumbai at Eden Gardens, on Wednesday. SRK with actress Juhi Chawla had come to Eden Gardens to watch Kolkata's game, yesterday. Just after their team lost, SRK took to Twitter and wrote an apologetic message to all Kolkata fans. "Sports is about the spirit and wins/losses don't reflect that. But tonight as the 'Boss' I need to apologise to the fans for the lack of spirit," he wrote. The win took Rohit Sharma's team to level on points with Kolkata (10 points from 11 games) and fourth in the points table, courtesy to a better net run rate. Kolkata lost to the same opponents twice in the space of three days, and were dropped to the fifth spot in the league table. Wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan scored a whirlwind 21-ball 62 to help Mumbai set a mammoth target of 211 runs. The Dinesh Karthik-led side will next face Punjab on Saturday.

IPL 2018: SRK apologises for Kolkata's 'lack of spirit' against Mumbai

Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field against Mumbai.

In their previous encounter, Mumbai won the last game by 13 runs.

Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat before they managed to pull through in the previous two games.

"We would have bowled first as well. But we are batting now, the last time we played against these guys in Mumbai we posted a decent total. Nothing changes for us and we'll try to do the same against them tonight," Rohit said.

"I think we are playing with the same squad as it's important to back the guys. We have been playing some good cricket of late and hope to come up with a good performance again," he added.

Against Punjab, it was a Rohit and Krunal Pandya blitz that kept them alive in the play-off competition. A challenging 181/4 coupled with well-directed short balls during Kolkata's chase helped Mumbai stay afloat.&nbsp;

Kolkata, on the other hand, were not at full strength against Mumbai in their away game, with young pacer Shivam Mavi's injured finger joining the team's long list of injuries this season.&nbsp;

Talking about their strategy for today,&nbsp;Karthik&nbsp;said, "We are gonna bowl first. It's a good wicket to bat on. Will remain the same. We thought we'll make use of it second time."

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"That was a team of the past (about the record against MI). We are starting fresh and we have new set of boys. We are two good teams and we expect a good match. We have two changes, Shubman Gill is injured and Rinku Singh comes in. Tom Curran is in for Mitchell Johnson," he added.

Teams:

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Tom Curran, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav

Mumbai (Playing XI): Suryakumar Yadav, Evin Lewis, Rohit Sharma(c), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Jean-Paul Duminy, Ishan Kishan(w), Ben Cutting, Mitchell McClenaghan, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah

In their previous encounter, Mumbai won the last game by 13 runs.

Kolkata skipper Dinesh Karthik on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field against Mumbai. In their previous encounter, Mumbai won the last game by 13 runs. Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat before they managed to pull through in the previous two games. "We would have bowled first as well. But we are batting now, the last time we played against these guys in Mumbai we posted a decent total. Nothing changes for us and we'll try to do the same against them tonight," Rohit said. "I think we are playing with the same squad as it's important to back the guys. We have been playing some good cricket of late and hope to come up with a good performance again," he added. Against Punjab, it was a Rohit and Krunal Pandya blitz that kept them alive in the play-off competition. A challenging 181/4 coupled with well-directed short balls during Kolkata's chase helped Mumbai stay afloat. Kolkata, on the other hand, were not at full strength against Mumbai in their away game, with young pacer Shivam Mavi's injured finger joining the team's long list of injuries this season. Talking about their strategy for today, Karthik said, "We are gonna bowl first. It's a good wicket to bat on. Will remain the same. We thought we'll make use of it second time." × "That was a team of the past (about the record against MI). We are starting fresh and we have new set of boys. We are two good teams and we expect a good match. We have two changes, Shubman Gill is injured and Rinku Singh comes in. Tom Curran is in for Mitchell Johnson," he added. Teams: Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Nitish Rana, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Tom Curran, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav Mumbai (Playing XI): Suryakumar Yadav, Evin Lewis, Rohit Sharma(c), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Jean-Paul Duminy, Ishan Kishan(w), Ben Cutting, Mitchell McClenaghan, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah

IPL 2018: Kolkata win toss, opt to field against Mumbai

Timings of Indian Premier League's playoffs and final game have changed to 7&nbsp;PM for the convenience of spectators at the games. According to some media reports, Rajeev Shukla, the chairman of the Indian Premier League, has confirmed that the playoffs will begin at 7 PM instead of 8 PM.

The fans were facing the issues of reaching home late and thanks to the slow over rates, few of the matches have gone on to end at around 12 midnight.

"The IPL is what it is because of its fans and the tournament has over the years been followed avidly both on the ground and on television at homes. So, keeping the interest of the fans in mind, it was decided that the play-off games and the final will start an hour earlier. So, instead of the 8 pm start, the games will start at 7 pm," said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla.

The first qualifier will be played on May 22 at the Wankhede Stadium and the other qualifier (on May 25) and eliminator (on May 23) have been shifted from Pune to Kolkata.

The final game of IPL 2018 will be played on May 27 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.&nbsp;

Timings of Indian Premier League's playoffs and final game have changed to 7 PM for the convenience of spectators

Timings of Indian Premier League's playoffs and final game have changed to 7 PM for the convenience of spectators at the games. According to some media reports, Rajeev Shukla, the chairman of the Indian Premier League, has confirmed that the playoffs will begin at 7 PM instead of 8 PM. The fans were facing the issues of reaching home late and thanks to the slow over rates, few of the matches have gone on to end at around 12 midnight. "The IPL is what it is because of its fans and the tournament has over the years been followed avidly both on the ground and on television at homes. So, keeping the interest of the fans in mind, it was decided that the play-off games and the final will start an hour earlier. So, instead of the 8 pm start, the games will start at 7 pm," said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla. The first qualifier will be played on May 22 at the Wankhede Stadium and the other qualifier (on May 25) and eliminator (on May 23) have been shifted from Pune to Kolkata. The final game of IPL 2018 will be played on May 27 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

IPL 2018: Play-off, final game timings changed for spectators' convenience

After being defeated by Mumbai at Wankhede, Kolkata hosts Rohit Sharma-led side at Eden Gardens on Wednesday. &nbsp;

Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat before they managed to pull through in the previous two games.

Against Punjab, it was a Rohit and Krunal Pandya blitz that kept them alive in the play-off competition. A challenging 181/4 coupled with well-directed short balls during Kolkata's chase helped Mumbai stay afloat.&nbsp;

Given the role of an opening batsman, Suryakumar Yadav has been a revelation for the franchise, scoring as many as four half-centuries in 10 matches.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old former Kolkata player is Mumbai's highest run-getter amassing 399 at 39.90.

One concern for Rohit would be their middle order which continued to struggle against Kolkata and had it not been for Hardik's splendid knock at the end, they would not have managed to post 181 despite getting off to an explosive start.

Kolkata, on the other hand, were not at full strength against Mumbai in their away game, with young pacer Shivam Mavi's injured finger joining the team's long list of injuries this season.

Led by West Indian spinner Sunil Narine, Kolkata's spin battery will again be the key with Kuldeep Yadav and Piyush Chawla expected to choke the opposition.

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Karthik has been very consistent with the bat and he would want his other batsmen to stand up and be counted.

Nitish Rana has been in fine touch for the purple brigade from the outset while Andre Russell has played a few devastating knocks.

Young Shubman Gill, who was sent in to open the batting along with Lynn against Rohit-led side, could again get the opportunity.

In the head-to-head count, Mumbai lead Kolkata by a long long way at 17-5 in 22 meetings so far.&nbsp;

Both teams need a win today in order to keep their chances alive in this year's Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat

After being defeated by Mumbai at Wankhede, Kolkata hosts Rohit Sharma-led side at Eden Gardens on Wednesday. Mumbai were on the verge of falling by the wayside after a series of defeat before they managed to pull through in the previous two games. Against Punjab, it was a Rohit and Krunal Pandya blitz that kept them alive in the play-off competition. A challenging 181/4 coupled with well-directed short balls during Kolkata's chase helped Mumbai stay afloat. Given the role of an opening batsman, Suryakumar Yadav has been a revelation for the franchise, scoring as many as four half-centuries in 10 matches. The 27-year-old former Kolkata player is Mumbai's highest run-getter amassing 399 at 39.90. One concern for Rohit would be their middle order which continued to struggle against Kolkata and had it not been for Hardik's splendid knock at the end, they would not have managed to post 181 despite getting off to an explosive start. Kolkata, on the other hand, were not at full strength against Mumbai in their away game, with young pacer Shivam Mavi's injured finger joining the team's long list of injuries this season. Led by West Indian spinner Sunil Narine, Kolkata's spin battery will again be the key with Kuldeep Yadav and Piyush Chawla expected to choke the opposition. × Karthik has been very consistent with the bat and he would want his other batsmen to stand up and be counted. Nitish Rana has been in fine touch for the purple brigade from the outset while Andre Russell has played a few devastating knocks. Young Shubman Gill, who was sent in to open the batting along with Lynn against Rohit-led side, could again get the opportunity. In the head-to-head count, Mumbai lead Kolkata by a long long way at 17-5 in 22 meetings so far. Both teams need a win today in order to keep their chances alive in this year's Indian Premier League.

IPL 2018: Match preview of Kolkata vs Mumbai

A Singapore-Kolkata aircraft made an emergency landing at Kolkata International airport on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday following a technical glitch.

The Singapore Airlines 516 had to be disembarked as a technical glitch was reported in the aircraft landing gear that had led to fuel leakage.

All the in-flight passengers were rescued safely from the location.

All the in-flight passengers were rescued safely from the location

A Singapore-Kolkata aircraft made an emergency landing at Kolkata International airport on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday following a technical glitch. The Singapore Airlines 516 had to be disembarked as a technical glitch was reported in the aircraft landing gear that had led to fuel leakage. All the in-flight passengers were rescued safely from the location.

Singapore-Kolkata flight makes emergency landing in Kolkata

The police on Saturday arrests 13 people for illegally running call centres in Kolkata, officers said.&nbsp

The accused were found during a joint carried out by Anti-Rowdy Section (ARS) and Cyber PS officers of Kolkata Police on Sunday morning. They were arrested from eight different locations where alleged illegal call centres were operating.

Four persons were arrested from a call centre on Topsia Road while two others were nabbed from Tangra area, he said.

Three were picked up from a call centre in Kasba and another four persons were arrested from a Tiljala-based call centre, he added.

"In all, 13 persons have been arrested for running these illegal call centres. We have seized 25 laptops and desktops and 17 mobile phones. Four cases under specific sections have been started in connection with this matter," he said.

All the 13 accused have been remanded in police custody till May 13.

In February, the cyber cell of the Crime Branch arrested four people from Mirzapur area who were accused of being involved in running an illegal call centre and duping American citizens on the pretext of providing a loan to them.&nbsp

The accused were found during a joint carried out by Anti-Rowdy Section (ARS) and Cyber PS officers of Kolkata Police on Sunday morning

The police on Saturday arrests 13 people for illegally running call centres in Kolkata, officers said. The accused were found during a joint carried out by Anti-Rowdy Section (ARS) and Cyber PS officers of Kolkata Police on Sunday morning. They were arrested from eight different locations where alleged illegal call centres were operating. Four persons were arrested from a call centre on Topsia Road while two others were nabbed from Tangra area, he said. Three were picked up from a call centre in Kasba and another four persons were arrested from a Tiljala-based call centre, he added. "In all, 13 persons have been arrested for running these illegal call centres. We have seized 25 laptops and desktops and 17 mobile phones. Four cases under specific sections have been started in connection with this matter," he said. All the 13 accused have been remanded in police custody till May 13. In February, the cyber cell of the Crime Branch arrested four people from Mirzapur area who were accused of being involved in running an illegal call centre and duping American citizens on the pretext of providing a loan to them.

13 arrested for running illegal call centres in Kolkata

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