<p>Chennai Super Kings will enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to redeem themselves for last year's debacle and back to winning ways. MS Dhoni-led Chennai have several new names in their squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a></p>

<p>Suresh Raina will be returning to the team after missing out on last year's Indian Premier League. The prolific batsman has been vital in the team's campaign in the cash-rich T20 league. The addition of Robin Uthappa will add more firepower to the batting lineup.</p>

<p>Several young players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chezhian Harinishanth, Sam Curran will bolster the team. Gaikwad missed out on the opening matches for the Super Kings after testing positive for coronavirus, however, he regained his form when the tournament came to a close as he scored back-to-back half-centuries. Chezhian Harinishanth had a prolific domestic season with Tamil Nadu and he will be a player to watch out for.&nbsp;</p>

<p>English all-rounder Sam Curran's heroics in the final ODI against India in the recently concluded series will surely make him a good option in the playing XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Krishnappa Gowtham and Moeen Ali will further bolster the team's all-round option along with Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo. Chennai Super Kings have strong all-round options as they head into the cash-rich T20 league.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Probable best XI for the team:</strong> Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Sam Curran, MS Dhoni (C, Wk), Krishnappa Gowtham, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar</p>

<h2><strong>Chennai Super Kings IPL 2021 Squad:&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Faf du Plessis, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, N. Jagadeesan (wk), Robin Uthappa, MS Dhoni (c/wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Dwayne Bravo, Karn Sharma, R. Sai Kishore, Mitchell Santner, Imran Tahir, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Lungi Ngidi, KM Asif, Moeen Ali, K Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K. Bhagath Varma, C Hari Nishanth<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings will enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to redeem themselves for last year's debacle and back to winning ways. MS Dhoni-led Chennai have several new names in their squad.

Chennai Super Kings will enter the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to redeem themselves for last year's debacle and back to winning ways. MS Dhoni-led Chennai have several new names in their squad. ALSO READ: From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 Suresh Raina will be returning to the team after missing out on last year's Indian Premier League. The prolific batsman has been vital in the team's campaign in the cash-rich T20 league. The addition of Robin Uthappa will add more firepower to the batting lineup. Several young players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chezhian Harinishanth, Sam Curran will bolster the team. Gaikwad missed out on the opening matches for the Super Kings after testing positive for coronavirus, however, he regained his form when the tournament came to a close as he scored back-to-back half-centuries. Chezhian Harinishanth had a prolific domestic season with Tamil Nadu and he will be a player to watch out for. English all-rounder Sam Curran's heroics in the final ODI against India in the recently concluded series will surely make him a good option in the playing XI. Krishnappa Gowtham and Moeen Ali will further bolster the team's all-round option along with Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo. Chennai Super Kings have strong all-round options as they head into the cash-rich T20 league. Probable best XI for the team: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Sam Curran, MS Dhoni (C, Wk), Krishnappa Gowtham, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar Chennai Super Kings IPL 2021 Squad: Faf du Plessis, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, N. Jagadeesan (wk), Robin Uthappa, MS Dhoni (c/wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Dwayne Bravo, Karn Sharma, R. Sai Kishore, Mitchell Santner, Imran Tahir, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Lungi Ngidi, KM Asif, Moeen Ali, K Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K. Bhagath Varma, C Hari Nishanth

IPL 2021, Chennai Super Kings - Team Preview: Will Dhoni and co. become a formidable side once again?

From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021

<p class="MsoNormal">Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Team India pacer T Natarajan has recalled MS Dhoni’s advice to him about managing his fitness and bowling variations and revealed how the tips from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain helped him grow in his career.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dhoni was one of Natarjan’s 16 wickets in IPL 2020 in what was a breakthrough season for the left-arm pacer. Natarajan further talked about why he didn’t celebrate after dismissing India’s most iconic captain in IPL 2020.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“I pitched one in the slot and he hit me for a big six — 102 metres or something,” Natarajan told ESPNCricinfo, referring to the match between SRH and CSK on October 13.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The next ball I got his wicket (and didn’t celebrate) — I was just thinking about that previous ball. After coming back to the dressing room, though, I was happy,” he further said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-has-back-up-plans-for-t20-world-cup-in-india-interim-ceo-geoff-allardice-375878" hreflang="en">ICC has back-up plans for T20 World Cup in India: Interim CEO Geoff Allardice</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DidYouKnow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DidYouKnow</a>: It was <a href="https://twitter.com/Natarajan_91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Natarajan_91</a>'s<br />
dream to get Dhoni's wicket!<br />
<br />
And he fulfilled it yesterday! Way to go, Nattu! 👏🏻👏🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrangeArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrangeArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeepRising?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeepRising</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/4piXkdIuuG">pic.twitter.com/4piXkdIuuG</a></p>
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers/status/1316401103961907202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The left-arm pacer, who went on to make his India debut across formats after IPL 2020, revealed what Dhoni told him after the match.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“After finishing the match, I also had a chat with him. Speaking to somebody like Dhoni itself is a big thing. He spoke to me about fitness and encouraged me, saying that I will keep getting better with experience. He said, use slow bouncers, cutters, and variations like that. It has been useful for me,” he said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for IPL 2021 in the COVID-19-ravaged Mumbai as they gave green signals to the franchises to practice post 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels amid night curfew.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/overseas-players-give-up-on-mental-health-sourav-ganguly-says-indians-more-tolerant-in-bubble-life-375857" hreflang="en">Overseas players 'give up on mental health,' Sourav Ganguly says Indians more tolerant in bubble life</a></strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Due to the massive surge of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra, the state government on Sunday announced “Break the Chain”, under which section 144 and night-curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays has been imposed on entire Maharashtra, including Mumbai.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">IPL 2021 is set to kick-start from April 9.<br />
<o:p></o:p></p>


Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Team India pacer T Natarajan has recalled MS Dhoni’s advice to him about managing his fitness and bowling variations and revealed how the tips from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain helped him grow in his career.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Team India pacer T Natarajan has recalled MS Dhoni’s advice to him about managing his fitness and bowling variations and revealed how the tips from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain helped him grow in his career. Dhoni was one of Natarjan’s 16 wickets in IPL 2020 in what was a breakthrough season for the left-arm pacer. Natarajan further talked about why he didn’t celebrate after dismissing India’s most iconic captain in IPL 2020. “I pitched one in the slot and he hit me for a big six — 102 metres or something,” Natarajan told ESPNCricinfo, referring to the match between SRH and CSK on October 13. “The next ball I got his wicket (and didn’t celebrate) — I was just thinking about that previous ball. After coming back to the dressing room, though, I was happy,” he further said. ALSO READ: ICC has back-up plans for T20 World Cup in India: Interim CEO Geoff Allardice #DidYouKnow: It was @Natarajan_91's dream to get Dhoni's wicket! And he fulfilled it yesterday! Way to go, Nattu! 👏🏻👏🏻#OrangeArmy #KeepRising #IPL2020 pic.twitter.com/4piXkdIuuG — SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) October 14, 2020 × The left-arm pacer, who went on to make his India debut across formats after IPL 2020, revealed what Dhoni told him after the match. “After finishing the match, I also had a chat with him. Speaking to somebody like Dhoni itself is a big thing. He spoke to me about fitness and encouraged me, saying that I will keep getting better with experience. He said, use slow bouncers, cutters, and variations like that. It has been useful for me,” he said. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government on Monday paved the way for IPL 2021 in the COVID-19-ravaged Mumbai as they gave green signals to the franchises to practice post 8pm and travel back to their respective hotels amid night curfew. ALSO READ: Overseas players 'give up on mental health,' Sourav Ganguly says Indians more tolerant in bubble life × Due to the massive surge of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra, the state government on Sunday announced “Break the Chain”, under which section 144 and night-curfew from 8pm to 7am on weekdays has been imposed on entire Maharashtra, including Mumbai. IPL 2021 is set to kick-start from April 9.

IPL 2021: SRH pacer T Natarajan reveals precious MS Dhoni advice from last season

<p class="MsoNormal">Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021. On Monday, CSK shared a video of Dhoni where the veteran is seen smashing sixes at will. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">CSK on Monday shared a video on Instagram where Dhoni was seen hammering sixes all around the park. CSK captioned the video: “Thala Paraak fully loaded! #WhistlePodu #Yellove” <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In the video, there was a compilation of Dhoni’s huge sixes with the CSK captain stealing the thunders by appearing in the second half.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-provides-update-on-ipl-2021-scheduling-amid-spike-in-covid-19-cases-375485" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases</a></strong></p>

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<p>After a disastrous outing in IPL 2020 in the UAE, Dhoni and co would be itching to put the record straight by once again fighting for the playoffs spot. Even Dhoni had a tough IPL 2020 where he managed just 200 runs in 14 matches. CSK failed to make the playoffs in IPL 2020 – the first time in their history – as they finished second last in the standings with 12 points in 14 matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-does-crickets-law-book-say-on-fakhar-zaman-quinton-de-kock-run-out-incident-375466" hreflang="en">What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident?</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ahead of IPL 2021, CSK made changes to their squad and signed up all-rounders Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham while also roping in experienced campaigners such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Robin Uthappa.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;CSK will also witness the return of Suresh Raina – who missed the 13<sup>th</sup> edition of IPL due to personal reasons.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">CSK commence their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10 in Mumbai.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></p>


Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021.

Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has been sweating hard ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. While Dhoni started his preparation for the showpiece T20 tournament in the month of March, the former Indian captain has been looking in brilliant touch with the willow ahead of IPL 2021. On Monday, CSK shared a video of Dhoni where the veteran is seen smashing sixes at will. CSK on Monday shared a video on Instagram where Dhoni was seen hammering sixes all around the park. CSK captioned the video: “Thala Paraak fully loaded! #WhistlePodu #Yellove” In the video, there was a compilation of Dhoni’s huge sixes with the CSK captain stealing the thunders by appearing in the second half. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly provides update on IPL 2021 scheduling amid spike in COVID-19 cases View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chennai Super Kings (@chennaiipl) × After a disastrous outing in IPL 2020 in the UAE, Dhoni and co would be itching to put the record straight by once again fighting for the playoffs spot. Even Dhoni had a tough IPL 2020 where he managed just 200 runs in 14 matches. CSK failed to make the playoffs in IPL 2020 – the first time in their history – as they finished second last in the standings with 12 points in 14 matches. ALSO READ: What does cricket’s law book say on Fakhar Zaman-Quinton de Kock run-out incident? Ahead of IPL 2021, CSK made changes to their squad and signed up all-rounders Moeen Ali and Krishnappa Gowtham while also roping in experienced campaigners such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Robin Uthappa. CSK will also witness the return of Suresh Raina – who missed the 13th edition of IPL due to personal reasons. CSK commence their IPL 2021 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 10 in Mumbai.

Watch: 'Thala' MS Dhoni unleashes monstrous sixes at CSK nets ahead of IPL 2021

<p>Ten years ago, MS Dhoni hit a monstrous six at the Wankhede Stadium to help India lift the World Cup trophy. He ended India's wait for 28 years to become World Champions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-hospitalised-on-medical-advice-days-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-374920" hreflang="en">Sachin Tendulkar hospitalised 'on medical advice', days after testing positive for COVID-19</a></p>

<p>The then team manager Ranjib Biswal described the celebration after lifting the trophy and the surprise he received next day in the morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We literally had no idea what was awaiting us the morning after the final. We had celebrated till late in the dressing room after the win and then came back to the team hotel and continued celebrating till around 4:30 in the morning. After that, we retired to our rooms. And what do we see when we wake up? Dhoni has shaved off his head after returning to his room. It was indeed a moment that will stay with us forever. We had no clue," he told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biswas then said that Dhoni did not leave the celebrations early and kept partying with the rest of the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was there with all of us and left only when the celebrations ended. And then he goes to his room and shaves off his head. That is Dhoni for you. He keeps his emotions close to his heart and doesn't express much."</p>

<p>Biswas talked about the India-Pakistan semifinals clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"An India-Pakistan clash, over that a World Cup encounter and even above that, it was the semi-final of the World Cup. Let us not even get started on the fact that dignitaries and fans from across the border were present in the stadium to watch the game. But as it is with MS and also then-coach Gary Kirsten, they didn't let the pressure show in their behaviour. I think that helped calm the nerves of the others around. As for me, it was about making sure that the cricketers were focused solely on the game and everything else was taken care of," he smiled.</p>


Ten years ago, MS Dhoni hit a monstrous six at the Wankhede Stadium to help India lift the World Cup trophy. He ended India's wait for 28 years to become World Champions.

Ten years ago, MS Dhoni hit a monstrous six at the Wankhede Stadium to help India lift the World Cup trophy. He ended India's wait for 28 years to become World Champions. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar hospitalised 'on medical advice', days after testing positive for COVID-19 The then team manager Ranjib Biswal described the celebration after lifting the trophy and the surprise he received next day in the morning. "We literally had no idea what was awaiting us the morning after the final. We had celebrated till late in the dressing room after the win and then came back to the team hotel and continued celebrating till around 4:30 in the morning. After that, we retired to our rooms. And what do we see when we wake up? Dhoni has shaved off his head after returning to his room. It was indeed a moment that will stay with us forever. We had no clue," he told ANI. Biswas then said that Dhoni did not leave the celebrations early and kept partying with the rest of the team. "He was there with all of us and left only when the celebrations ended. And then he goes to his room and shaves off his head. That is Dhoni for you. He keeps his emotions close to his heart and doesn't express much." Biswas talked about the India-Pakistan semifinals clash. "An India-Pakistan clash, over that a World Cup encounter and even above that, it was the semi-final of the World Cup. Let us not even get started on the fact that dignitaries and fans from across the border were present in the stadium to watch the game. But as it is with MS and also then-coach Gary Kirsten, they didn't let the pressure show in their behaviour. I think that helped calm the nerves of the others around. As for me, it was about making sure that the cricketers were focused solely on the game and everything else was taken care of," he smiled.

'We literally had no idea': Ranjib Biswal recalls biggest surprise he received by MS Dhoni post WC 2011

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers remains an elite white-ball cricketer despite years after retirement from the international level. He has been a part of the Indian Premier League right from the inaugural season (2008) and has played against and with several big names in the cash-rich T20 league. The Proteas legend picked his IPL all-time XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-pant-doesnt-have-to-worry-about-being-like-ms-dhoni-can-be-better-says-parthiv-374766" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Pant doesn't have to worry about being like MS Dhoni, can be better, says Parthiv</a></p>

<p>"Last night I was thinking that if I pick my IPL XI and I include myself, how bad would that look. So, opening the batting, I would pick someone whom I started with at Delhi, Viru (Virender Sehwag) at 1 and someone who I think has played some of the best cricket in the world in the last five years, Rohit at No. 2," De Villiers told Cricbuzz in an interaction.</p>

<p>He named his current skipper, Virat Kohli, at number three.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Then obviously Virat at No. 3, followed by I’d say either Williamson, or Smith, or myself… these are the two replacements. Ben Stokes at 5, MS at six as captain, and at No. 7, I’d put Jaddu, Mr Jadeja. Rashid Khan at 8, Bhuvi at 9, Kagiso Rabada at 10 and Bumrah at 11," de Villiers said.</p>

<p>"I’d put Stokes because obviously we know what he can do with the bat, but also considering that extra seaming option. Got the two spinners and then Bumrah, Rabada and Bhuvi as fast bowlers. So that pretty much covers everything," de Villiers mentioned.</p>

<p><strong>AB de Villiers all-time XI:</strong> Virender Sehwag, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson/Steve Smith/AB de Villiers, Ben Stokes, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;</p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers remains an elite white-ball cricketer despite years after retirement from the international level. He has been a part of the Indian Premier League right from the inaugural season (2008) and has played against and with several big names in the cash-rich T20 league.

Royal Challengers Bangalore star AB de Villiers remains an elite white-ball cricketer despite years after retirement from the international level. He has been a part of the Indian Premier League right from the inaugural season (2008) and has played against and with several big names in the cash-rich T20 league. The Proteas legend picked his IPL all-time XI. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Pant doesn't have to worry about being like MS Dhoni, can be better, says Parthiv "Last night I was thinking that if I pick my IPL XI and I include myself, how bad would that look. So, opening the batting, I would pick someone whom I started with at Delhi, Viru (Virender Sehwag) at 1 and someone who I think has played some of the best cricket in the world in the last five years, Rohit at No. 2," De Villiers told Cricbuzz in an interaction. He named his current skipper, Virat Kohli, at number three. "Then obviously Virat at No. 3, followed by I’d say either Williamson, or Smith, or myself… these are the two replacements. Ben Stokes at 5, MS at six as captain, and at No. 7, I’d put Jaddu, Mr Jadeja. Rashid Khan at 8, Bhuvi at 9, Kagiso Rabada at 10 and Bumrah at 11," de Villiers said. "I’d put Stokes because obviously we know what he can do with the bat, but also considering that extra seaming option. Got the two spinners and then Bumrah, Rabada and Bhuvi as fast bowlers. So that pretty much covers everything," de Villiers mentioned. AB de Villiers all-time XI: Virender Sehwag, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson/Steve Smith/AB de Villiers, Ben Stokes, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Jasprit Bumrah

'Pretty much covers everything': RCB star AB De Villiers picks his IPL all-time XI

<p>Rising Pune Supergiants featured in just two Indian Premier League seasons (2016, 2017) because Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were banned for two years. MS Dhoni led the IPL franchise in 2016 but was replaced in 2017 by Australian batsman Steve Smith.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/weve-got-a-big-winter-ahead-csk-pacer-josh-hazlewood-opts-out-of-ipl-2021-374632" hreflang="en">'We've got a big winter ahead': CSK pacer Josh Hazlewood opts out of IPL 2021</a></p>

<p>In 2017, the Rising Pune Supergiants reached the finals of the Indian Premier League but lost by 1 run against Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians. However, former RPS player Rajat Bhatia gave a bold statement on Steve Smith's captaincy (in 2017) in the inaugural episode of SportsTiger’s new interview series - Interact. Personal. Laugh &amp; Life, where he said that Mahendra Singh Dhoni was the main reason the team made it to the season finale.</p>

<p>He said: “IPL is a tournament where every franchise has its own call. They mostly trust the big names available in the squad. The trend of giving captaincy to an overseas player is still going on. But I was never in favour of this as overseas players aren’t aware of the domestic players.”</p>

<p>“You can never compare Dhoni with Steve Smith. If we look at all the 10 franchises, Smith doesn’t even feature in the top 10 captains for me. Smith had no idea about captaincy and he did not know which bowler to bring in amid a crucial situation and who to trust for the death overs. I was surprised that Rajasthan Royals trusted him with the leadership role and now they let them go,” he said.</p>

<p>“For me, a successful captain in IPL is one who is an Indian player and know the domestic cricketers very well. Smith didn’t even know Rahul Tripathi represents which state or bats at what position. We [Rising Pune Supergiant] made it to IPL 2017 final because of MS Dhoni and not Steve Smith,” he added.</p>

<p>Bhatia has featured in 95 games in the Indian Premier League. He has played for Rising Pune Supergiants, Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), and Kolkata Knight Riders. The all-rounder scalped 71 wickets and scored 342.</p>


Rising Pune Supergiants featured in just two Indian Premier League seasons (2016, 2017) because Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were banned for two years.

Rising Pune Supergiants featured in just two Indian Premier League seasons (2016, 2017) because Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were banned for two years. MS Dhoni led the IPL franchise in 2016 but was replaced in 2017 by Australian batsman Steve Smith. ALSO READ: 'We've got a big winter ahead': CSK pacer Josh Hazlewood opts out of IPL 2021 In 2017, the Rising Pune Supergiants reached the finals of the Indian Premier League but lost by 1 run against Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians. However, former RPS player Rajat Bhatia gave a bold statement on Steve Smith's captaincy (in 2017) in the inaugural episode of SportsTiger’s new interview series - Interact. Personal. Laugh & Life, where he said that Mahendra Singh Dhoni was the main reason the team made it to the season finale. He said: “IPL is a tournament where every franchise has its own call. They mostly trust the big names available in the squad. The trend of giving captaincy to an overseas player is still going on. But I was never in favour of this as overseas players aren’t aware of the domestic players.” “You can never compare Dhoni with Steve Smith. If we look at all the 10 franchises, Smith doesn’t even feature in the top 10 captains for me. Smith had no idea about captaincy and he did not know which bowler to bring in amid a crucial situation and who to trust for the death overs. I was surprised that Rajasthan Royals trusted him with the leadership role and now they let them go,” he said. “For me, a successful captain in IPL is one who is an Indian player and know the domestic cricketers very well. Smith didn’t even know Rahul Tripathi represents which state or bats at what position. We [Rising Pune Supergiant] made it to IPL 2017 final because of MS Dhoni and not Steve Smith,” he added. Bhatia has featured in 95 games in the Indian Premier League. He has played for Rising Pune Supergiants, Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), and Kolkata Knight Riders. The all-rounder scalped 71 wickets and scored 342.

'Rising Pune Supergiant made it to IPL 2017 final because of Dhoni and not Smith': Rajat Bhatia

<p>Former India wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel picked Rishabh Pant as the X-factor for the Delhi Capitals side and said he is a brilliant player who can be better than former skipper MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>Pant had a great last year in the IPL which saw him earn a spot in the Indian team. Pant has not looked back since. He made the most of his opportunities, be it Test cricket, ODIs, or T20Is. He was also named as the captain of the Capitals` squad for this season.</p>

<p>Speaking on Star Sports` show Game Plan, Parthiv Patel said, "I think Rishabh Pant carries a lot of confidence with him and that`s what you want when you are playing a T20 game. You don`t want any doubts in your mind and especially a player like Rishabh Pant. He was burdened with the comparison of MS Dhoni and he also tried to do that, but he himself is a brilliant player. He doesn`t have to worry about being like MS Dhoni. He can be better than MS Dhoni or he can win matches on his own every given time. So, I think Rishabh Pant will probably hold the key for Delhi Capitals."</p>

<p>Parthiv further analysed the Mumbai Indians` team for IPL 2021 and said, "I don`t think Mumbai Indians will be thinking of where they are playing next. All the teams would be thinking about where they are playing first and you know, try and get their best team forward, try and get their best XI on the path.</p>

<p>"If they are playing in Chennai, you might expect some spinner but from the Mumbai Indians point of view, I don`t think they have to tinker a lot with their playing XI because Hardik Pandya is bowling quite a bit now, almost bowling 4 overs, Pollard bowls his slower ones really well, which might be useful on a Chennai wicket. And obviously, Rahul Chahar had an outstanding IPL, a couple of outstanding IPLs and hence, he was picked for India. Krunal Pandya`s 4 overs, his form in domestic cricket, so I can go on and on about it," he added.</p>

<p>When asked about his thoughts on whether Royal Challengers Bangalore will have the right start in the IPL, he said, "It all matters how you are ending the tournament, doesn`t it? I think we have seen Mumbai Indians so many times, not starting the tournament well, but picking at the right time, but once they get to the business end of the tournament, you know if they have to win five out of five, they have the team to go win it in Kolkata.</p>

<p>"But I think there were a lot of questions to be answered in the auction, but I don`t think they have answered those questions. Just because they were not expecting it to go out of Bangalore. Hence, Moeen Ali went. If Moeen Ali was there, it would have been a different XI altogether. And one player actually can change the composition of the XI. As he rightly said, attention was to try to get away from ABD and Virat, but how much attention they are trying to win it away inside the team will matter the most and not outside of the team," he added.</p>

<p>The IPL 2021 is slated to begin on April 9 with Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore locking horns in the tournament opener.&nbsp;</p>


Former India wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel picked Rishabh Pant as the X-factor for the Delhi Capitals side and said he is a brilliant player who can be better than former skipper MS Dhoni.

Former India wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel picked Rishabh Pant as the X-factor for the Delhi Capitals side and said he is a brilliant player who can be better than former skipper MS Dhoni. Pant had a great last year in the IPL which saw him earn a spot in the Indian team. Pant has not looked back since. He made the most of his opportunities, be it Test cricket, ODIs, or T20Is. He was also named as the captain of the Capitals` squad for this season. Speaking on Star Sports` show Game Plan, Parthiv Patel said, "I think Rishabh Pant carries a lot of confidence with him and that`s what you want when you are playing a T20 game. You don`t want any doubts in your mind and especially a player like Rishabh Pant. He was burdened with the comparison of MS Dhoni and he also tried to do that, but he himself is a brilliant player. He doesn`t have to worry about being like MS Dhoni. He can be better than MS Dhoni or he can win matches on his own every given time. So, I think Rishabh Pant will probably hold the key for Delhi Capitals." Parthiv further analysed the Mumbai Indians` team for IPL 2021 and said, "I don`t think Mumbai Indians will be thinking of where they are playing next. All the teams would be thinking about where they are playing first and you know, try and get their best team forward, try and get their best XI on the path. "If they are playing in Chennai, you might expect some spinner but from the Mumbai Indians point of view, I don`t think they have to tinker a lot with their playing XI because Hardik Pandya is bowling quite a bit now, almost bowling 4 overs, Pollard bowls his slower ones really well, which might be useful on a Chennai wicket. And obviously, Rahul Chahar had an outstanding IPL, a couple of outstanding IPLs and hence, he was picked for India. Krunal Pandya`s 4 overs, his form in domestic cricket, so I can go on and on about it," he added. When asked about his thoughts on whether Royal Challengers Bangalore will have the right start in the IPL, he said, "It all matters how you are ending the tournament, doesn`t it? I think we have seen Mumbai Indians so many times, not starting the tournament well, but picking at the right time, but once they get to the business end of the tournament, you know if they have to win five out of five, they have the team to go win it in Kolkata. "But I think there were a lot of questions to be answered in the auction, but I don`t think they have answered those questions. Just because they were not expecting it to go out of Bangalore. Hence, Moeen Ali went. If Moeen Ali was there, it would have been a different XI altogether. And one player actually can change the composition of the XI. As he rightly said, attention was to try to get away from ABD and Virat, but how much attention they are trying to win it away inside the team will matter the most and not outside of the team," he added. The IPL 2021 is slated to begin on April 9 with Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore locking horns in the tournament opener.

IPL 2021: Pant doesn't have to worry about being like MS Dhoni, can be better, says Parthiv

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara is set to make his Indian Premier League comeback after being roped in by Chennai Super Kings for the 2021 season. The Indian batsman last featured in the 2014 edition of the cash-rich league.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-might-not-start-very-well-aakash-chopra-predicts-chennai-super-kings-2021-campaign-374446" hreflang="en">IPL- 'Might not start very well': Aakash Chopra predicts Chennai Super Kings' 2021 campaign</a></p>

<p>CSK boss N Srinivasan said that Cheteshwar Pujara is a national hero and couldn’t have let Pujara go unsold during the IPL 2021 auctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Acknowledging Srinivasan's comments, Pujara said: “It is very kind of him to say that. I feel privileged to be part of such a franchise that respects the performance of the players for the national team. I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi Bhai who was my captain when I made international debut.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-will-be-a-talismanic-leader-suresh-raina-on-rishabh-pant-leading-delhi-capitals-374423" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals</a></p>

<p>“And when Mr Srinivasan, who has been associated with cricket for a long time, says such things, it feels great. It is an emotional moment for me,” Pujara told Cricbuzz.</p>

<p>Pujara has featured in 30 IPL matches where he scored 390 runs at an average and strike-rate of 20.53 and 99.74 respectively with a top score of 51. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“I don’t overrate myself as a T20 player. I can’t say where I stand as a T20 cricketer but as a cricketer, I am in much better space. Having played a lot of cricket at the international level, I am very confident I will do well in the shorter format too. I feel I am part of the right setup in the IPL,” he added.</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara is set to make his Indian Premier League comeback after being roped in by Chennai Super Kings for the 2021 season. The Indian batsman last featured in the 2014 edition of the cash-rich league.

Cheteshwar Pujara is set to make his Indian Premier League comeback after being roped in by Chennai Super Kings for the 2021 season. The Indian batsman last featured in the 2014 edition of the cash-rich league. ALSO READ: IPL- 'Might not start very well': Aakash Chopra predicts Chennai Super Kings' 2021 campaign CSK boss N Srinivasan said that Cheteshwar Pujara is a national hero and couldn’t have let Pujara go unsold during the IPL 2021 auctions. Acknowledging Srinivasan's comments, Pujara said: “It is very kind of him to say that. I feel privileged to be part of such a franchise that respects the performance of the players for the national team. I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi Bhai who was my captain when I made international debut. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Will be a talismanic leader': Suresh Raina on Rishabh Pant leading Delhi Capitals “And when Mr Srinivasan, who has been associated with cricket for a long time, says such things, it feels great. It is an emotional moment for me,” Pujara told Cricbuzz. Pujara has featured in 30 IPL matches where he scored 390 runs at an average and strike-rate of 20.53 and 99.74 respectively with a top score of 51. “I don’t overrate myself as a T20 player. I can’t say where I stand as a T20 cricketer but as a cricketer, I am in much better space. Having played a lot of cricket at the international level, I am very confident I will do well in the shorter format too. I feel I am part of the right setup in the IPL,” he added.

'I am lucky that I will be playing under Mahi bhai': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of IPL 2021

<p>Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja called Misbah-ul-Haq 'the poor man's MS Dhoni' and urged the Pakistan head coach to adopt modern thinking to guide the team well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramiz Raja compared Misbah's calm nature with that of Captain Cool, however, he said that former Pakistan batsman he has to change and adapt according to the modern demands of the game.</p>

<p>"Misbah's training and upbringing is different. Let me put it this way, he is the poor man's Dhoni. MS was also restrained, no expressions and not emotional. Misbah is also like this but I think now he has to go on modern thinking," Ramiz said in an interview on the Cricket Baaz YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"Misbah has to take a new direction because there is a need to set the GPS right for Pakistan cricket because aggression is in our DNA. I think at times he gets too protective and he gets cagey as soon as we lose a match. But if our products and talent is right we shouldn't be afraid of hiccups and setbacks."</p>

<p>Ramiz requested the board to appoint a chief executive for the Pakistan team and said that the team should stop relying on foreign coaches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the past I could understand we needed foreign coaches because we were young to this field but now we have grown ourselves in this area. "In fact I think there is no need to have permanent coaches with the team for all tours and we should only be appointing specialist coaches as required on tour to tour series to series basis.</p>

<p>"Appointment of coaches should be tour-based and opposition based. Use their expertise for a series and move on rather than carry on with them for a long period."</p>


Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja called Misbah-ul-Haq 'the poor man's MS Dhoni' and urged the Pakistan head coach to adopt modern thinking to guide the team well.

Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja called Misbah-ul-Haq 'the poor man's MS Dhoni' and urged the Pakistan head coach to adopt modern thinking to guide the team well. Ramiz Raja compared Misbah's calm nature with that of Captain Cool, however, he said that former Pakistan batsman he has to change and adapt according to the modern demands of the game. "Misbah's training and upbringing is different. Let me put it this way, he is the poor man's Dhoni. MS was also restrained, no expressions and not emotional. Misbah is also like this but I think now he has to go on modern thinking," Ramiz said in an interview on the Cricket Baaz YouTube channel. "Misbah has to take a new direction because there is a need to set the GPS right for Pakistan cricket because aggression is in our DNA. I think at times he gets too protective and he gets cagey as soon as we lose a match. But if our products and talent is right we shouldn't be afraid of hiccups and setbacks." Ramiz requested the board to appoint a chief executive for the Pakistan team and said that the team should stop relying on foreign coaches. "In the past I could understand we needed foreign coaches because we were young to this field but now we have grown ourselves in this area. "In fact I think there is no need to have permanent coaches with the team for all tours and we should only be appointing specialist coaches as required on tour to tour series to series basis. "Appointment of coaches should be tour-based and opposition based. Use their expertise for a series and move on rather than carry on with them for a long period."

Ramiz Raja calls former Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq  'poor man's MS Dhoni'

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{92f7709d-cfac-44c0-b79c-e271155a26cf}{99}" paraid="1991790850" >South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The Proteas bowler has further revealed how he was taken aback by Dhoni's aura, which gave him goosebumps while adding he is eager to play under 'Captain Cool’ again in IPL 2021, starting from April 9.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a16e4757-27e8-4f9d-b041-50039f6f34a0}{206}" paraid="1705237943" >"When I first arrived at Chennai, you'd walk out and you'd hear the crowd chant his name, you would get goosebumps and they're not even talking about you. He is massive for cricket, massive for Chennai. Like everyone says, Captain Cool," Ngidi told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{09b08fca-9025-4383-83ee-aba9445bcc3d}{203}" paraid="541123403" >Ngidi scalped 11 wickets from seven matches in 2018 before opting out of the next edition due to injury. In IPL 2020, Ngidi played four matches but picked up nine wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{09b08fca-9025-4383-83ee-aba9445bcc3d}{203}" paraid="541123403" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-england-favourites-to-win-t20-world-cup-but-dont-rule-out-india-ryan-sidebottom-370657" hreflang="en">Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{110}" paraid="502057297" >The South African quick bowler hailed Dhoni for the way he carries himself while also lauding his nature of keeping his emotions in check.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{119}" paraid="1898479982" >"He's been very consistent; that's the one thing I was amazed at the most… his consistency and how he carries himself, behaves as a captain. For me, that was one of the most amazing things. Never showing too much emotion but when you'd need to get a bit of a pick-up talk from the captain, he'd give it to you. Very amazing man and very happy to be playing under him," Ngidi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{128}" paraid="1529109829" >CSK added the likes of Moeen Ali,&nbsp;Krishnappa Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K Bhagath Varma and C Hari Nishanth&nbsp;to their squad in the IPL 2021 auction and Ngidi is looking forward to playing with them in the tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{128}" paraid="1529109829" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-virat-kohli-achieves-iconic-milestone-in-t20i-cricket-370598" hreflang="en">Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{37fd5ae7-d404-4fc7-919c-09342a7c3745}{182}" paraid="521122859" >"The combination is going to be interesting to see. Who plays, who misses out but the coaching staff and the captain get along very well and they've always got plans to fix things. So, I'm really excited to see how the guys are going to get it this year," the fast bowler said.&nbsp;</p>


South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.

South African speedster Lungi Ngidi has revealed how he was left in awe of MS Dhoni after joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The Proteas bowler has further revealed how he was taken aback by Dhoni's aura, which gave him goosebumps while adding he is eager to play under 'Captain Cool’ again in IPL 2021, starting from April 9. "When I first arrived at Chennai, you'd walk out and you'd hear the crowd chant his name, you would get goosebumps and they're not even talking about you. He is massive for cricket, massive for Chennai. Like everyone says, Captain Cool," Ngidi told ESPNCricinfo. Ngidi scalped 11 wickets from seven matches in 2018 before opting out of the next edition due to injury. In IPL 2020, Ngidi played four matches but picked up nine wickets. ALSO READ: Exclusive: England favourites to win T20 World Cup but don't rule out India - Ryan Sidebottom The South African quick bowler hailed Dhoni for the way he carries himself while also lauding his nature of keeping his emotions in check. "He's been very consistent; that's the one thing I was amazed at the most… his consistency and how he carries himself, behaves as a captain. For me, that was one of the most amazing things. Never showing too much emotion but when you'd need to get a bit of a pick-up talk from the captain, he'd give it to you. Very amazing man and very happy to be playing under him," Ngidi added. CSK added the likes of Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham, Cheteshwar Pujara, M Harisankar Reddy, K Bhagath Varma and C Hari Nishanth to their squad in the IPL 2021 auction and Ngidi is looking forward to playing with them in the tournament. ALSO READ: Record-breaking Virat Kohli achieves iconic milestone in T20I cricket "The combination is going to be interesting to see. Who plays, who misses out but the coaching staff and the captain get along very well and they've always got plans to fix things. So, I'm really excited to see how the guys are going to get it this year," the fast bowler said.

'When I first arrived at Chennai...': CSK's Lungi Ngidi reveals how MS Dhoni gave him 'goosebumps'

<p>BCCI &nbsp;president Sourav Ganguly feels that Rishabh Pant possesses traits similar to Yuvraj Singh, Virender Sehwag, and MS Dhoni and hailed him as the "game-changer".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a></p>

<p>Ganguly, who was a part of the Delhi Capitals' coaching staff in 2019, has worked closely with the young southpaw. Former Indian skipper explained how Pant's batting skills are on an upward curve since the Tour to Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have seen Pant very closely and I believe in match-winners. When they get going on their day, they single-handedly can win matches. Rishabh Pant is such a player," Ganguly told India Today. "I have also said this in the past, had he stayed at the crease for 5 or 6 overs, India could have won the Sydney Test. He is a game-changer. I like match-winners. In my time, we had Sehwag, Yuvraj, Dhoni."</p>

<p>Rishabh Pant had a tough 2020 as he was dropped from the limited-overs format and was substituted for Wriddhiman Saha in the Indian Test squad due to a string of poor performances on the ground. However, after a disappointing loss against Australia in Adelaide after Virat and Co. were bowled out for record low 36, Pant was played in the XI for the Boxing Day Test match where the young wicketkeeper left his mark.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>IN PICS:&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-vs-england-4th-test-virat-and-co-crush-england-to-book-a-berth-in-world-test-championship-finals-368450" hreflang="en">India vs England, 4th Test: Virat and Co. crush visitors to book a berth in World Test Championship finals</a></p>

<p>During the third Test at the SCG, Pant almost won the game for India after producing a solid knock of 97 runs while chasing a mammoth total of 407 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And the young wicketkeeper's 89 runs in the fourth Test at Gabba helped India breach the Australian fortress as Rahane and Co. sealed the series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pant's sublime form continued during the England Test as he scored 91 runs in the first match even though Team India lost. However, Pant's best knock came in the fourth Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium as the southpaw smashed a ton and helped India take a significant lead despite a poor start.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Look at the way he played against England. India were 146 for 6 (4th Test in Ahmedabad). The match could have gone anyway. He turned it around with his knock. Look at his game sense. The second new ball came in. His counterattack against Anderson was brilliant," Ganguly added.</p>


BCCI president Sourav Ganguly feels that Rishabh Pant possesses traits similar to Yuvraj Singh, Virender Sehwag, and MS Dhoni and hailed him as the "game-changer".

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly feels that Rishabh Pant possesses traits similar to Yuvraj Singh, Virender Sehwag, and MS Dhoni and hailed him as the "game-changer". IN PICS: IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. Ganguly, who was a part of the Delhi Capitals' coaching staff in 2019, has worked closely with the young southpaw. Former Indian skipper explained how Pant's batting skills are on an upward curve since the Tour to Australia. "I have seen Pant very closely and I believe in match-winners. When they get going on their day, they single-handedly can win matches. Rishabh Pant is such a player," Ganguly told India Today. "I have also said this in the past, had he stayed at the crease for 5 or 6 overs, India could have won the Sydney Test. He is a game-changer. I like match-winners. In my time, we had Sehwag, Yuvraj, Dhoni." Rishabh Pant had a tough 2020 as he was dropped from the limited-overs format and was substituted for Wriddhiman Saha in the Indian Test squad due to a string of poor performances on the ground. However, after a disappointing loss against Australia in Adelaide after Virat and Co. were bowled out for record low 36, Pant was played in the XI for the Boxing Day Test match where the young wicketkeeper left his mark. IN PICS: India vs England, 4th Test: Virat and Co. crush visitors to book a berth in World Test Championship finals During the third Test at the SCG, Pant almost won the game for India after producing a solid knock of 97 runs while chasing a mammoth total of 407 runs. And the young wicketkeeper's 89 runs in the fourth Test at Gabba helped India breach the Australian fortress as Rahane and Co. sealed the series. Pant's sublime form continued during the England Test as he scored 91 runs in the first match even though Team India lost. However, Pant's best knock came in the fourth Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium as the southpaw smashed a ton and helped India take a significant lead despite a poor start. "Look at the way he played against England. India were 146 for 6 (4th Test in Ahmedabad). The match could have gone anyway. He turned it around with his knock. Look at his game sense. The second new ball came in. His counterattack against Anderson was brilliant," Ganguly added.

Sourav Ganguly hails Rishabh Pant as 'game-changer' like MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{934aaa30-6f75-48b8-a24f-9aa9326da77b}{117}" paraid="559293124" >The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9. However, no franchise will have home advantage this term with matches to be held&nbsp;in neutral venues only. The schedule of IPL 2021 and the introduction of neutral venue have left a few franchises unhappy with some of them raising question on why they are being barred from playing in their home venues.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9bef74d4-6d19-47ac-88f5-9dc1caac3e7c}{237}" paraid="1748160706" >The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata&nbsp;will host&nbsp;IPL 2021 matches. The reason behind keeping neutral venues was to ensure parity on the field for every franchise while also ensuring no one gets added advantage of brand activation.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f976d983-4a8d-4108-9adb-40157439f794}{160}" paraid="2003412710" >It was reported that three franchises were discontent when&nbsp;their&nbsp;venues weren't considered for IPL 2021 and according to a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz, by addressing the concerns of three teams, who had earlier opposed the six-venue proposal,&nbsp;five other franchises could be less than satisfied with the final&nbsp;schedule.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b0a7836b-3cd8-42ce-ae0c-9efed994b936}{224}" paraid="2135734587" >"You are denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai. If there are to be no crowds, what stops CSK to play in Chennai and Mumbai Indians to play in Mumbai," asks one of the franchise officials&nbsp;as quoted by&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b0a7836b-3cd8-42ce-ae0c-9efed994b936}{224}" paraid="2135734587" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{66015fd4-39ed-43cd-ad06-7dc5b42b4a09}{85}" paraid="1511247410" >"Delhi have players like Prithvi Shaw, Ajinkya Rahane and skipper Shreyas Iyer who are from Mumbai and the team plays its first three games at the Wankhede. They will have advantage just as Punjab Kings who have players like KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal, and coach Anil Kumble, and they play five games in Bangalore? Don't they have the advantage of being familiar with the conditions at the&nbsp;Chinnaswamy&nbsp;Stadium? The plan can be counter-productive."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{816a28dd-def3-45e8-ae5d-3511d5ece447}{16}" paraid="326435719" >The other&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;raised over the schedule have been on safety standards and logistical hazards. A team will have to fly out at least four times and according to some franchises, that could expose those participating&nbsp;to outsiders.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{816a28dd-def3-45e8-ae5d-3511d5ece447}{16}" paraid="326435719" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a1aa24e3-157f-434b-928e-486788a8a0e2}{92}" paraid="2010575354" >"Those inside the team bubble are not allowed to meet the owners of their franchise and here by having to fly four times, change hotels and buses, the players will get exposed to outsiders," cautioned a franchise official, adding, "No doubt, we will engage charter flights and private airports but there will always be questions over the sanctity of the bio bubbles."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a1aa24e3-157f-434b-928e-486788a8a0e2}{122}" paraid="1203894036" >The report adds that the reason for&nbsp;finalising&nbsp;six venues was to spread out the risk factor amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9462aca5-0883-4c50-bf34-e42b118b684c}{90}" paraid="738692707" >"It is a safer approach. What if the pandemic situation worsens in Maharashtra? Where do we go then? If now the situation worsens in Mumbai, or any of the other cities, we're prepared to host the tournament elsewhere," says one of those involved with the scheduling of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>


The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9.

The schedule and fixture list of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 was released on Sunday. Spread over six cities, IPL 2021 is set to commence from April 9. However, no franchise will have home advantage this term with matches to be held in neutral venues only. The schedule of IPL 2021 and the introduction of neutral venue have left a few franchises unhappy with some of them raising question on why they are being barred from playing in their home venues. The cities of Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata will host IPL 2021 matches. The reason behind keeping neutral venues was to ensure parity on the field for every franchise while also ensuring no one gets added advantage of brand activation. It was reported that three franchises were discontent when their venues weren't considered for IPL 2021 and according to a report in Cricbuzz, by addressing the concerns of three teams, who had earlier opposed the six-venue proposal, five other franchises could be less than satisfied with the final schedule. "You are denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai. If there are to be no crowds, what stops CSK to play in Chennai and Mumbai Indians to play in Mumbai," asks one of the franchise officials as quoted by Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "Delhi have players like Prithvi Shaw, Ajinkya Rahane and skipper Shreyas Iyer who are from Mumbai and the team plays its first three games at the Wankhede. They will have advantage just as Punjab Kings who have players like KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal, and coach Anil Kumble, and they play five games in Bangalore? Don't they have the advantage of being familiar with the conditions at the Chinnaswamy Stadium? The plan can be counter-productive." The other concerns raised over the schedule have been on safety standards and logistical hazards. A team will have to fly out at least four times and according to some franchises, that could expose those participating to outsiders. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media "Those inside the team bubble are not allowed to meet the owners of their franchise and here by having to fly four times, change hotels and buses, the players will get exposed to outsiders," cautioned a franchise official, adding, "No doubt, we will engage charter flights and private airports but there will always be questions over the sanctity of the bio bubbles." The report adds that the reason for finalising six venues was to spread out the risk factor amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "It is a safer approach. What if the pandemic situation worsens in Maharashtra? Where do we go then? If now the situation worsens in Mumbai, or any of the other cities, we're prepared to host the tournament elsewhere," says one of those involved with the scheduling of the tournament.

Denying MS Dhoni to play his potential last IPL in Chennai: Franchises left unhappy over scheduling

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a408bf18-6d08-4b6e-9d69-2acbccb6a5ae}{231}" paraid="152561445" >Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e6fcbf40-31fb-4f43-9201-3921e32fdf35}{135}" paraid="1566473445" >While addressing a public meeting, Pawar revealed how Rahul Dravid wanted to quit captaincy in 2007 but for that, a new candidate was needed. Pawar asked Tendulkar to take the charge from Dravid but the Master Blaster refused before suggesting MS Dhoni's name for captaincy.&nbsp;Pawar served as the BCCI president for a period of three years from 2005 to 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a408bf18-6d08-4b6e-9d69-2acbccb6a5ae}{240}" paraid="316116572" >"I remember India had gone to England in 2007. At that time, Rahul Dravid was the captain. I was there in England then and Dravid came to meet me. He told me how he no longer wanted to lead India. He told me how the captaincy was affecting his batting. He told me that he should be relieved from the captaincy. I then asked&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar to lead the side, but he refused the role," said Pawar during a public meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a408bf18-6d08-4b6e-9d69-2acbccb6a5ae}{240}" paraid="316116572" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-team-wise-full-fixture-list-date-time-and-venues-368637" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b6dcb145-5020-49ec-8584-c277225cf124}{153}" paraid="1366241999" >"I told&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;that if both of you and Dravid do not want to lead the side, how will we go about things? Then&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;told me that we have one more player in the country who could lead the side and his name is none other than MS Dhoni. After that, we gave the leadership to Dhoni," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b6dcb145-5020-49ec-8584-c277225cf124}{181}" paraid="535111024" >Under Dravid's captaincy in 2007, India&nbsp;were&nbsp;knocked out from the World Cup in the group stage. In the same year, Dhoni was named the captain of India's T20 side that went on to lift the T20 World Cup. Dhoni went on to lead the country in both ODIs and Tests, winning all the major ICC Trophies&nbsp;and becoming the only captain to date to have won all ICC trophies.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b6dcb145-5020-49ec-8584-c277225cf124}{181}" paraid="535111024" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5908f4a0-5427-4c3e-838d-62fe221da662}{104}" paraid="2050172096" >In 2014, Dhoni announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing 90 Test matches. In 2020, Dhoni called it quits from international cricket marking an end to a trophy-laden 16-year-long career. He continues to play in the IPL.&nbsp;</p>


Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how Sachin Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar on Sunday revealed how Sachin Tendulkar's suggestion led to Mahendra Singh Dhoni become the captain of the Indian cricket team. While addressing a public meeting, Pawar revealed how Rahul Dravid wanted to quit captaincy in 2007 but for that, a new candidate was needed. Pawar asked Tendulkar to take the charge from Dravid but the Master Blaster refused before suggesting MS Dhoni's name for captaincy. Pawar served as the BCCI president for a period of three years from 2005 to 2008. "I remember India had gone to England in 2007. At that time, Rahul Dravid was the captain. I was there in England then and Dravid came to meet me. He told me how he no longer wanted to lead India. He told me how the captaincy was affecting his batting. He told me that he should be relieved from the captaincy. I then asked Sachin Tendulkar to lead the side, but he refused the role," said Pawar during a public meeting. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 Schedule: Team-wise full fixture list, date, time and venues "I told Sachin that if both of you and Dravid do not want to lead the side, how will we go about things? Then Sachin told me that we have one more player in the country who could lead the side and his name is none other than MS Dhoni. After that, we gave the leadership to Dhoni," he added. Under Dravid's captaincy in 2007, India were knocked out from the World Cup in the group stage. In the same year, Dhoni was named the captain of India's T20 side that went on to lift the T20 World Cup. Dhoni went on to lead the country in both ODIs and Tests, winning all the major ICC Trophies and becoming the only captain to date to have won all ICC trophies. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media In 2014, Dhoni announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing 90 Test matches. In 2020, Dhoni called it quits from international cricket marking an end to a trophy-laden 16-year-long career. He continues to play in the IPL.

Ex-BCCI president reveals how Sachin Tendulkar suggested MS Dhoni's name to lead Team India

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli was out on a duck in the fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium after nicking the ball off Stokes' delivery and giving an easy catch to Ben Foakes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-frustrating-ben-stokes-on-englands-performance-with-bat-defends-team-selection-368024" hreflang="en">'It’s frustrating': Ben Stokes on England's performance with bat; defends team selection</a></p>

<p>This was Kohli's 2nd duck in the series and 8th overall as an Indian Test Captain. By doing so, he has equalled MS Dhoni's unwanted record of most dismissals for a duck by an Indian captain.</p>

<p>This is also for the first time since 2014 (Pataudi Trophy vs England) that Kohli has been dismissed twice on duck in the series. The first duck came in the second Test after Moeen Ali's ripper left the Indian captain stunned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli's duck off Stokes' delivery was his 12th in Test career and fifth coming against England. Stokes also joined Pat Cummins, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad and James Anderson to dismiss Kohli on 5 instances.</p>

<p>India are currently 2-1 up in the series and they need to secure atleast a draw to book a WTC finals spot against New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli was out on a duck in the fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium after nicking the ball off Stokes' delivery and giving an easy catch to Ben Foakes.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli was out on a duck in the fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium after nicking the ball off Stokes' delivery and giving an easy catch to Ben Foakes. ALSO READ: 'It’s frustrating': Ben Stokes on England's performance with bat; defends team selection This was Kohli's 2nd duck in the series and 8th overall as an Indian Test Captain. By doing so, he has equalled MS Dhoni's unwanted record of most dismissals for a duck by an Indian captain. This is also for the first time since 2014 (Pataudi Trophy vs England) that Kohli has been dismissed twice on duck in the series. The first duck came in the second Test after Moeen Ali's ripper left the Indian captain stunned. Kohli's duck off Stokes' delivery was his 12th in Test career and fifth coming against England. Stokes also joined Pat Cummins, Moeen Ali, Stuart Broad and James Anderson to dismiss Kohli on 5 instances. India are currently 2-1 up in the series and they need to secure atleast a draw to book a WTC finals spot against New Zealand.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli equals MS Dhoni's unpopular record after getting out on duck

<p>Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting to create a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-root-and-mayers-in-contention-for-icc-player-of-the-month-for-february-367383" hreflang="en">Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February</a></p>

<p>The prolific India batsman has not scored a century since November 2019, where he smashed a ton against Bangladesh in a Day/Night Test at the Motera Stadium. Despite scoring two half-centuries in the series, Kohli has failed to convert them into hundreds yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Virat scores a century at Motera, the 32-year-old will overtake former Aussie legend Ricky Ponting in the list of captains with most international hundreds. Both batting stalwarts are tied at the top position in the list with 41 centuries to their name.</p>

<p>However, along with this, Virat is also set to equal MS Dhoni's record most matches as captain of the Indian team in Tests when he takes on the visitors on fourth and final Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The batting great is also 17 runs away from 12,000 international runs as captain, a feat achieved only by Australia's Ricky Ponting and South Africa's Graeme Smith before him. As a skipper, Australia's Ponting scored 15,440 runs, whereas Graeme Smith got 14,878 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another record that skipper Kohli will equal if Team India goes on to win the match is of Clive Lloyd, who led West Indies to 36 Test wins. He would go joint-fourth on the list of Test captains with the most wins if he leads India to victory in the fourth Test.</p>


Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting to create a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting to create a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming fourth Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. ALSO READ: Ashwin, Root and Mayers in contention for ICC Player of the Month for February The prolific India batsman has not scored a century since November 2019, where he smashed a ton against Bangladesh in a Day/Night Test at the Motera Stadium. Despite scoring two half-centuries in the series, Kohli has failed to convert them into hundreds yet. If Virat scores a century at Motera, the 32-year-old will overtake former Aussie legend Ricky Ponting in the list of captains with most international hundreds. Both batting stalwarts are tied at the top position in the list with 41 centuries to their name. However, along with this, Virat is also set to equal MS Dhoni's record most matches as captain of the Indian team in Tests when he takes on the visitors on fourth and final Test match. The batting great is also 17 runs away from 12,000 international runs as captain, a feat achieved only by Australia's Ricky Ponting and South Africa's Graeme Smith before him. As a skipper, Australia's Ponting scored 15,440 runs, whereas Graeme Smith got 14,878 runs. Another record that skipper Kohli will equal if Team India goes on to win the match is of Clive Lloyd, who led West Indies to 36 Test wins. He would go joint-fourth on the list of Test captains with the most wins if he leads India to victory in the fourth Test.

From MS Dhoni to Clive Lloyd: Records that Virat Kohli could achieve in the fourth Test

<p>Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting and creating a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming third Test against England at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/olympic-size-swimming-pool-dressing-room-with-gyms-11-centre-pitches-complete-guide-to-worlds-largest-cricket-stadium-in-ahmedabad-365397" hreflang="en">Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad</a></p>

<p>The prolific India batsman has not scored a century since November 2019, where he smashed a ton against Bangladesh in a Day/Night Test at the Motera Stadium. Despite scoring two half-centuries in the series, Kohli has failed to convert them into hundreds yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Virat scores a century at Motera, the 32-year-old will overtake former Aussie legend Ricky Ponting in the list of captains with most international hundreds. Both batting stalwarts are tied at the top position in the list with 41 centuries to their name.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-james-anderson-gives-his-verdict-on-motera-stadiums-pitch-ahead-of-pink-ball-test-365455" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test</a></p>

<p>Kohli could surpass another major record if his team manages to win the Test match at Motera as he is currently tied with MS Dhoni in the record of India captain with most Test wins at home. He equalled Captain Cool's achievement after the massive win at Chepauk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The win in the third Test against England at the Motera Stadium will be Kohli's 22nd Test win as captain at home, and he would surpass Dhoni to claim the top spot in the list.</p>

<p>Other Indian captains in the list following the duo are Mohammad Azharuddin (13 wins), Sourav Ganguly (10 wins), and Sunil Gavaskar (7 wins).</p>

<p>The four-match series is levelled at 1-1 with two matches remaining. The Day/Night Test match will begin on February 24 at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>


Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting and creating a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming third Test against England at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Indian captain Virat Kohli will be looking to end the unusual century drought and surpass former Australia captain Ricky Ponting and creating a world record when he steps out to bat in the upcoming third Test against England at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad. IN PICS: Olympic size swimming pool, dressing room with gyms, 11 centre pitches: Complete guide to world's largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad The prolific India batsman has not scored a century since November 2019, where he smashed a ton against Bangladesh in a Day/Night Test at the Motera Stadium. Despite scoring two half-centuries in the series, Kohli has failed to convert them into hundreds yet. If Virat scores a century at Motera, the 32-year-old will overtake former Aussie legend Ricky Ponting in the list of captains with most international hundreds. Both batting stalwarts are tied at the top position in the list with 41 centuries to their name. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test Kohli could surpass another major record if his team manages to win the Test match at Motera as he is currently tied with MS Dhoni in the record of India captain with most Test wins at home. He equalled Captain Cool's achievement after the massive win at Chepauk. The win in the third Test against England at the Motera Stadium will be Kohli's 22nd Test win as captain at home, and he would surpass Dhoni to claim the top spot in the list. Other Indian captains in the list following the duo are Mohammad Azharuddin (13 wins), Sourav Ganguly (10 wins), and Sunil Gavaskar (7 wins). The four-match series is levelled at 1-1 with two matches remaining. The Day/Night Test match will begin on February 24 at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Indian captain Virat Kohli eyes couple of huge records at third Test against England

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{8743470b-2115-4801-8efd-4c1f94adcaca}{166}" paraid="2115320891" >Mahendra Singh Dhoni was all set to play in the T20 World Cup for India in the year 2020 had the marquee event not been postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic, former Team India selector Sarandeep Singh has said.&nbsp;With cricket, like other sports, coming&nbsp;to a screeching halt due to the pandemic, all the series and major events were either cancelled or postponed. Dhoni went on to announce his international retirement on August 15, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c9ebed17-5910-4f64-a7ee-aab9b695920b}{165}" paraid="943889571" >Dhoni last played for India in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019 versus New Zealand and then opted for a sabbatical from the game.&nbsp;Sarandeep has now said that Dhoni was one of the fittest players in the Indian dressing room while revealing the former India skipper was in contention to play the T20 World Cup which could have been his last major tournament for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c9ebed17-5910-4f64-a7ee-aab9b695920b}{165}" paraid="943889571" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-wait-to-share-dressing-room-with-the-likes-of-kohli-says-rahul-tewatia-365097" hreflang="en">Can't wait to share dressing room with the likes of Kohli, says Rahul Tewatia</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a086a4aa-87e4-45e0-bfc0-aa705ed93c35}{68}" paraid="417239435" >“Definitely, he would have played (had COVID-19 not interrupted). We were also thinking that he should have definitely played the World T20. He was fit. There was no reason for him to not play. We always see the fitness of the players first to see how long they can play. And Mahi was the fittest. He never took a break from practice. Even in optional practice, Mahi was there. And you see it never happened that he missed a game because of injury. That’s why he got so much respect from everyone,” Sarandeep, former India selector,&nbsp;told&nbsp;Sportskeeda.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0742c349-e422-4f51-96cf-c7193180c234}{82}" paraid="1335006066" >The former India selector went on to add that all the members of the selection committee thought that Dhoni deserved to play the T20 World Cup for what he has achieved for the Men in Blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0742c349-e422-4f51-96cf-c7193180c234}{82}" paraid="1335006066" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-take-a-call-on-county-stint-after-ipl-says-csks-latest-recruit-cheteshwar-pujara-365075" hreflang="en">Will take a call on county stint after IPL, says CSK's latest recruit Cheteshwar Pujara</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{30a337e7-e66b-4d90-b062-3bc077912ff4}{192}" paraid="1338035425" >“We always felt that a player who played so much for India and won so many trophies – there’s not a single trophy he hasn’t won – deserved that chance. It was my personal opinion and opinion of everyone in the selection committee that MS Dhoni should have played the World T20,” said Sarandeep.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{30a337e7-e66b-4d90-b062-3bc077912ff4}{242}" paraid="1150521214" >Dhoni continues to be a part of the Indian Premier League for Chennai Super Kings and will be seen in the 14 edition of the cash-rich tournament.&nbsp;</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni was all set to play in the T20 World Cup for India in the year 2020 had the marquee event not been postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic, former Team India selector Sarandeep Singh has said.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni was all set to play in the T20 World Cup for India in the year 2020 had the marquee event not been postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic, former Team India selector Sarandeep Singh has said. With cricket, like other sports, coming to a screeching halt due to the pandemic, all the series and major events were either cancelled or postponed. Dhoni went on to announce his international retirement on August 15, 2020. Dhoni last played for India in the semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019 versus New Zealand and then opted for a sabbatical from the game. Sarandeep has now said that Dhoni was one of the fittest players in the Indian dressing room while revealing the former India skipper was in contention to play the T20 World Cup which could have been his last major tournament for India. ALSO READ: Can't wait to share dressing room with the likes of Kohli, says Rahul Tewatia “Definitely, he would have played (had COVID-19 not interrupted). We were also thinking that he should have definitely played the World T20. He was fit. There was no reason for him to not play. We always see the fitness of the players first to see how long they can play. And Mahi was the fittest. He never took a break from practice. Even in optional practice, Mahi was there. And you see it never happened that he missed a game because of injury. That’s why he got so much respect from everyone,” Sarandeep, former India selector, told Sportskeeda. The former India selector went on to add that all the members of the selection committee thought that Dhoni deserved to play the T20 World Cup for what he has achieved for the Men in Blue. ALSO READ: Will take a call on county stint after IPL, says CSK's latest recruit Cheteshwar Pujara “We always felt that a player who played so much for India and won so many trophies – there’s not a single trophy he hasn’t won – deserved that chance. It was my personal opinion and opinion of everyone in the selection committee that MS Dhoni should have played the World T20,” said Sarandeep. Dhoni continues to be a part of the Indian Premier League for Chennai Super Kings and will be seen in the 14 edition of the cash-rich tournament.

MS Dhoni would have played T20 World Cup in 2020, says former Team India selector

From MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh to Chris Morris: Most expensive buys in every IPL auctions

<p>Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday joined former Indian captain MS Dhoni in a rare list of captains to have won their first three Tests. Rahane led India to a memorable eight-wicket win against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rahane became the second Indian captain to win each of this first three Tests a captain after MS Dhoni. Rahane first led India in a Test match against Australia in Dharamsala which the hosts won by eight wickets in 2016/17.</p>

<p>Rahane’s second Test win as a captain came against Afghanistan in what was a one-off Test in Bengaluru in 2018 where the hosts defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 262 runs. And his third win as a Test captain came on Tuesday as India defeated Australia by eight wickets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-for-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahane-co-for-historic-win-in-boxing-day-test-353106" hreflang="en">'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test</a></strong></p>

<h2>Ajinkya Rahane as skipper:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Beat Australia by eight wickets, Dharamsala 2016/17</li>
	<li>Beat Afghanistan by innings and 262 runs, Bengaluru 2018</li>
	<li>Beat Australia by eight wickets, MCG 2020/21 *</li>
</ul>

<p>Furthermore, Melbourne became India’s best away ground as the visitors registered their fourth win in the iconic stadium (in 14 Tests). India’s second-most wins at an overseas venue are at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain (3 in 13 Tests) with Sabina Park in Kingston, and SSC in Colombo all locked at three wins for India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a></strong></p>

<h2>Most wins for India at an overseas venue:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>4 MCG, Melbourne (14 Tests)</li>
	<li>3 Queen's Park Oval, Port of Spain (13 Tests)</li>
	<li>3 Sabina Park, Kingston (13 Tests)</li>
	<li>3 SSC, Colombo (9 Tests)</li>
</ul>

<p>Now, India would be looking to carry the winning run when they take the field for the third Test from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday joined former Indian captain MS Dhoni in a rare list of captains to have won their first three Tests. Rahane led India to a memorable eight-wicket win against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday joined former Indian captain MS Dhoni in a rare list of captains to have won their first three Tests. Rahane led India to a memorable eight-wicket win against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Rahane became the second Indian captain to win each of this first three Tests a captain after MS Dhoni. Rahane first led India in a Test match against Australia in Dharamsala which the hosts won by eight wickets in 2016/17. Rahane’s second Test win as a captain came against Afghanistan in what was a one-off Test in Bengaluru in 2018 where the hosts defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 262 runs. And his third win as a Test captain came on Tuesday as India defeated Australia by eight wickets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. ALSO READ: 'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane & Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test Ajinkya Rahane as skipper: Beat Australia by eight wickets, Dharamsala 2016/17 Beat Afghanistan by innings and 262 runs, Bengaluru 2018 Beat Australia by eight wickets, MCG 2020/21 * Furthermore, Melbourne became India’s best away ground as the visitors registered their fourth win in the iconic stadium (in 14 Tests). India’s second-most wins at an overseas venue are at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain (3 in 13 Tests) with Sabina Park in Kingston, and SSC in Colombo all locked at three wins for India. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners Most wins for India at an overseas venue: 4 MCG, Melbourne (14 Tests) 3 Queen's Park Oval, Port of Spain (13 Tests) 3 Sabina Park, Kingston (13 Tests) 3 SSC, Colombo (9 Tests) Now, India would be looking to carry the winning run when they take the field for the third Test from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia

ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners

<p>Former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni on Friday became the winner of the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade with Dhoni’s move of recalling England batsman Ian Bell in the Nottingham Test in 2011 between India and England winning the coveted award by a unanimous vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni was voted unanimously for his tremendous gesture of calling back Bell after the England batsman was adjudged run-out after some confusion.<br />
In the match between England and India in Nottingham in 2011, Bell was batting on 137 when he slashed a delivery towards the backward point fielder.</p>

<p>Praveen Kumar chased the ball but couldn’t stop it from hitting the boundary rope after a diving effort. Kumar didn’t know about the situation and threw the ball towards the wicket-keeper’s end where the fielder ran Bell out.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-named-icc-male-cricketer-of-the-decade-odi-player-of-the-decade-check-full-list-352886" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list</a></strong></p>

<p>The third umpire, too, gave Bell out. With Bell walking back to the pavilion, disappointedly, he was asked to stop by the umpires. The Indian team walked towards Bell and MS Dhoni took the appeal back and called back Bell to continue his innings.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the decade , MAHENDRA SINGH DHONI 👑❤ chosen for calling Ian Bell back by withdrawing India's appeal. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/rCQz7XDHQ8">pic.twitter.com/rCQz7XDHQ8</a></p>
— Bhavya (@BhavyaDhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/BhavyaDhoni/status/1343494279432269824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Back in the time, Dhoni’s gesture was largely lauded by the fans and pundits and after a gap of nine years, Dhoni’s tremendous gesture and sportsman spirit have been awarded with the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-announces-team-of-the-decade-virat-kohli-features-in-all-formats-352731" hreflang="en">ICC announces 'Team of the Decade', Virat Kohli features in all formats</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, current Indian captain Virat Kohli was named the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Decade and Men’s ODI Player of the Decade. Australian batsman Steve Smith was awarded the ICC Men’s Test Player of the Decade while Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan was named ICC Men’s T20I Player of the Decade.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni on Friday became the winner of the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade with Dhoni’s move of recalling England batsman Ian Bell in the Nottingham Test in 2011 between India and England winning the coveted award by a unanimous vote.

Former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni on Friday became the winner of the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade with Dhoni’s move of recalling England batsman Ian Bell in the Nottingham Test in 2011 between India and England winning the coveted award by a unanimous vote. Dhoni was voted unanimously for his tremendous gesture of calling back Bell after the England batsman was adjudged run-out after some confusion. In the match between England and India in Nottingham in 2011, Bell was batting on 137 when he slashed a delivery towards the backward point fielder. Praveen Kumar chased the ball but couldn’t stop it from hitting the boundary rope after a diving effort. Kumar didn’t know about the situation and threw the ball towards the wicket-keeper’s end where the fielder ran Bell out. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli named ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade, ODI Player of the Decade - Check full list The third umpire, too, gave Bell out. With Bell walking back to the pavilion, disappointedly, he was asked to stop by the umpires. The Indian team walked towards Bell and MS Dhoni took the appeal back and called back Bell to continue his innings. ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the decade , MAHENDRA SINGH DHONI 👑❤ chosen for calling Ian Bell back by withdrawing India's appeal. #MSDhoni | #Dhoni | #ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/rCQz7XDHQ8 — Bhavya (@BhavyaDhoni) December 28, 2020 × × Back in the time, Dhoni’s gesture was largely lauded by the fans and pundits and after a gap of nine years, Dhoni’s tremendous gesture and sportsman spirit have been awarded with the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade. ALSO READ: ICC announces 'Team of the Decade', Virat Kohli features in all formats Meanwhile, current Indian captain Virat Kohli was named the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Decade and Men’s ODI Player of the Decade. Australian batsman Steve Smith was awarded the ICC Men’s Test Player of the Decade while Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan was named ICC Men’s T20I Player of the Decade.

ICC Spirit of the Decade Award: When MS Dhoni recalled Ian Bell during Nottingham Test in 2011- Watch

<p>The year 2020 has been like no other. Even though everyone stayed home and stayed safe, the spirit of sports lovers on Twitter was alive and well. People tuned into the timeline to enhance their viewing experience and feel more connected to the game. Fans and athletes stayed away from the stadium and used Twitter to stay connected with each other, sharing fitness routines, DIY activities and having conversations through Twitter Q&amp;As.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here is a look at the Top Sports Tweets of 2020 that struck a chord with Indians and became the most Retweeted and Liked Tweets this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>#ThisHappened: Top Sports Tweets of 2020</p>

<p><em>(Identified based on the total number of Retweets / Likes by Twitter accounts in India between Jan 1 to Nov 15, 2020.)</em></p>

<p><strong>Most Retweeted Tweet in Indian Sports:</strong> MS Dhoni expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s letter</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An Artist,Soldier and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone.thanks PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> for your appreciation and good wishes. <a href="https://t.co/T0naCT7mO7">pic.twitter.com/T0naCT7mO7</a></p>
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni/status/1296362680580636672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former Team India skipper M.S Dhoni shared his gratitude on Twitter, thanking Prime Minister Modi for sending him a letter that acknowledged his deep contribution to cricket in India. The Tweet was met with a tremendous roar of approval across the nation making it the most Retweeted Tweet by an athlete.</p>

<p><strong>Most Liked &amp; Quote Tweeted Tweet: </strong>Virat Kohli Tweeted about Anushka Sharma’s pregnancy, sharing his joy and happiness with billions on the service.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-taking-the-knee-to-joining-protests-athletes-who-contributed-to-black-lives-matter-movement-349554" hreflang="en">From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And then, we were three! Arriving Jan 2021 ❤️🙏 <a href="https://t.co/0BDSogBM1n">pic.twitter.com/0BDSogBM1n</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1298856026544906240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Virat Kohli’s&nbsp;Tweet that announced Anushka Sharma’s pregnancy became the ‘Most Liked and Quote Tweeted Tweet of 2020’ for sports as people across India shared their love and good wishes with the couple.</p>

<h2>#ThisHappened: Most Tweeted sports hashtags:</h2>

<p><strong>1.#IPL2020:</strong> Twitter was abuzz with Tweets across the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the much-anticipated T20 cricket tournament took place later in the year than usual. Cricket enthusiasts celebrated and connected with each other on Twitter, making #IPL2020 the most Tweeted hashtag in sports for 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>2.#WhistlePodu:</strong> The MS Dhoni-led team Chennai Super Kings became the most Tweeted about team in #IPL2020, and subsequently their team hashtag #WhistlePodu became the second-most Tweeted hashtag in sports this year.</p>

<p><strong>3.#TeamIndia:</strong> At the start of the year, the stellar performance of the Indian Women’s cricket team&nbsp;at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup created cheerful conversations and translated into strong momentum on and off the field.</p>

<p><img alt="Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c15ba7c1-2d55-42f8-9044-40258e415c59" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-12-14%20at%201.13.20%20PM.jpeg" /></p>

<h2>#ThisHappened: Most mentioned Indian athletes in 2020</h2>

<p>The most Tweeted about Indian athletes on Twitter was cricketer, and captain of Team India, Virat Kohli , followed by two other cricket icons MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma.</p>

<p>While cricketers dominated the male charts, it was our Olympian stars which made it to the top of the most mentioned female athletes on Twitter in India in 2020. Indian wrestler, who is in the race for Tokyo Olympics, Geeta Phogat was the most mentioned Indian woman athlete on Twitter followed by India’s Badminton stars PV Sindhu&nbsp;and Saina Nehwal.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/postponements-and-resumption-a-turbulent-year-of-2020-for-sports-world-346992" hreflang="en">Postponements and resumption: A turbulent year of 2020 for sports world</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="adca99f7-3715-49bd-a049-e6d6e2c6554a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-12-14%20at%201.13.21%20PM_0.jpeg" /></p>

<h2>#ThisHappened: Most Tweeted about sports other than Cricket in India</h2>

<p>India is a cricketing nation, and Twitter is where that cricket action unfolds -- but there are many other sports that fill Indian timelines too. One of the most followed sports after cricket in India is football, and so unsurprisingly this became the most Tweeted about sport (other than cricket) on Twitter this year. Basketball (NBA) and F1 Racing were the other two sports which were discussed the most by Indian fans in 2020.</p>

<p>1.Football<br />
2.Basketball (NBA)<br />
3.F1 Racing</p>

<p><img alt="Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a97df5e7-00b2-449a-89d1-100527968856" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202020-12-14%20at%201.13.21%20PM.jpeg" /></p>

<p><strong>Here is the list of top three most Tweeted about global sports teams and global athletes in India this year:</strong></p>

<h2>#ThisHappened: Most Tweeted about global sports personalities in India</h2>

<p>1.Cristiano Ronaldo&nbsp;<br />
2.David Warner&nbsp;<br />
3.AB de Villiers</p>

<h2>#ThisHappened: Most Tweeted about global teams Tweeted about by Indians</h2>

<p>1.Manchester United<br />
2.FC Barcelona<br />
3.Arsenal&nbsp;<br />
<br />
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The year 2020 has been like no other. Even though everyone stayed home and stayed safe, the spirit of sports lovers on Twitter was alive and well. People tuned into the timeline to enhance their viewing experience and feel more connected to the game.

The year 2020 has been like no other. Even though everyone stayed home and stayed safe, the spirit of sports lovers on Twitter was alive and well. People tuned into the timeline to enhance their viewing experience and feel more connected to the game. Fans and athletes stayed away from the stadium and used Twitter to stay connected with each other, sharing fitness routines, DIY activities and having conversations through Twitter Q&As. Here is a look at the Top Sports Tweets of 2020 that struck a chord with Indians and became the most Retweeted and Liked Tweets this year. #ThisHappened: Top Sports Tweets of 2020 (Identified based on the total number of Retweets / Likes by Twitter accounts in India between Jan 1 to Nov 15, 2020.) Most Retweeted Tweet in Indian Sports: MS Dhoni expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s letter An Artist,Soldier and Sportsperson what they crave for is appreciation, that their hard work and sacrifice is getting noticed and appreciated by everyone.thanks PM @narendramodi for your appreciation and good wishes. pic.twitter.com/T0naCT7mO7 — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) August 20, 2020 × Former Team India skipper M.S Dhoni shared his gratitude on Twitter, thanking Prime Minister Modi for sending him a letter that acknowledged his deep contribution to cricket in India. The Tweet was met with a tremendous roar of approval across the nation making it the most Retweeted Tweet by an athlete. Most Liked & Quote Tweeted Tweet: Virat Kohli Tweeted about Anushka Sharma’s pregnancy, sharing his joy and happiness with billions on the service. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement And then, we were three! Arriving Jan 2021 ❤️🙏 pic.twitter.com/0BDSogBM1n — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 27, 2020 × Virat Kohli’s Tweet that announced Anushka Sharma’s pregnancy became the ‘Most Liked and Quote Tweeted Tweet of 2020’ for sports as people across India shared their love and good wishes with the couple. #ThisHappened: Most Tweeted sports hashtags: 1.#IPL2020: Twitter was abuzz with Tweets across the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the much-anticipated T20 cricket tournament took place later in the year than usual. Cricket enthusiasts celebrated and connected with each other on Twitter, making #IPL2020 the most Tweeted hashtag in sports for 2020. 2.#WhistlePodu: The MS Dhoni-led team Chennai Super Kings became the most Tweeted about team in #IPL2020, and subsequently their team hashtag #WhistlePodu became the second-most Tweeted hashtag in sports this year. 3.#TeamIndia: At the start of the year, the stellar performance of the Indian Women’s cricket team at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup created cheerful conversations and translated into strong momentum on and off the field. #ThisHappened: Most mentioned Indian athletes in 2020 The most Tweeted about Indian athletes on Twitter was cricketer, and captain of Team India, Virat Kohli , followed by two other cricket icons MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. While cricketers dominated the male charts, it was our Olympian stars which made it to the top of the most mentioned female athletes on Twitter in India in 2020. Indian wrestler, who is in the race for Tokyo Olympics, Geeta Phogat was the most mentioned Indian woman athlete on Twitter followed by India’s Badminton stars PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal. IN PICS | Postponements and resumption: A turbulent year of 2020 for sports world #ThisHappened: Most Tweeted about sports other than Cricket in India India is a cricketing nation, and Twitter is where that cricket action unfolds -- but there are many other sports that fill Indian timelines too. One of the most followed sports after cricket in India is football, and so unsurprisingly this became the most Tweeted about sport (other than cricket) on Twitter this year. Basketball (NBA) and F1 Racing were the other two sports which were discussed the most by Indian fans in 2020. 1.Football 2.Basketball (NBA) 3.F1 Racing Here is the list of top three most Tweeted about global sports teams and global athletes in India this year: #ThisHappened: Most Tweeted about global sports personalities in India 1.Cristiano Ronaldo 2.David Warner 3.AB de Villiers #ThisHappened: Most Tweeted about global teams Tweeted about by Indians 1.Manchester United 2.FC Barcelona 3.Arsenal

#ThisHappened2020: Kohli, Dhoni most mentioned athletes on Twitter, IPL 2020 most tweeted sports hashtags

<p>Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has emerged as the highest-paid player in the Indian Premier League. According to Inside Sports Money Ball, former India captain has earned over Rs 137 crore by playing IPL.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-overshadows-coronavirus-tops-list-of-most-trending-search-on-google-india-in-2020-348595" hreflang="en">IPL overshadows coronavirus, tops list of most trending search on Google India in 2020</a></p>

<p>Dhoni was the costliest pick in IPL 2008 and he joined Chennai Super Kings for $1.5 million. He went on to become the marquee captain in first three seasons of IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His success with Chennai, which includes three IPL trophies, helped his popularity in the format and is now the highest-paid player in the history of the league.</p>

<p>Rs 137 crore does not include the several cash prizes like Player of the Match awards, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-return-for-ipl-202021-and-syed-mushtaq-ali-348610" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina to return for IPL 2020/21 and Syed Mushtaq Ali</a></p>

<p>From IPL 2011 to 2013, he earned nearly Rs 8.2 crore every year. In 2014, the BCCI raised the first-choice retention fees to Rs. 12.5 crores. Hence, Dhoni earned that amount in IPL 2014 and 2015. Dhoni was picked up by Rising Pune Supergiants after CSK was suspended for two years. However, his change in the franchise did not change the income he earned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BCCI increased the first-choice retention price to Rs 15 crore before IPL 2018 due to which Dhoni earned Rs 45 crores in the next three years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While playing for India, Dhoni mostly remained in the top bracket in BCCI's central contract list. His success in IPL has always helped him stay in the Playing XI in the T20 league.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma is second in the list. The prolific batsman has earned over Rs 131 crore.</p>

<p>Third, on the list is Virat Kohli. The Royal Challengers' Bangalore skipper comes with an income of over Rs 126 crore.</p>


Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has emerged as the highest-paid player in the Indian Premier League. According to Inside Sports Money Ball, former India captain has earned over Rs 137 crore by playing IPL.

Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni has emerged as the highest-paid player in the Indian Premier League. According to Inside Sports Money Ball, former India captain has earned over Rs 137 crore by playing IPL. Also read: IPL overshadows coronavirus, tops list of most trending search on Google India in 2020 Dhoni was the costliest pick in IPL 2008 and he joined Chennai Super Kings for $1.5 million. He went on to become the marquee captain in first three seasons of IPL. His success with Chennai, which includes three IPL trophies, helped his popularity in the format and is now the highest-paid player in the history of the league. Rs 137 crore does not include the several cash prizes like Player of the Match awards, etc. Also read: Suresh Raina to return for IPL 2020/21 and Syed Mushtaq Ali From IPL 2011 to 2013, he earned nearly Rs 8.2 crore every year. In 2014, the BCCI raised the first-choice retention fees to Rs. 12.5 crores. Hence, Dhoni earned that amount in IPL 2014 and 2015. Dhoni was picked up by Rising Pune Supergiants after CSK was suspended for two years. However, his change in the franchise did not change the income he earned. BCCI increased the first-choice retention price to Rs 15 crore before IPL 2018 due to which Dhoni earned Rs 45 crores in the next three years. While playing for India, Dhoni mostly remained in the top bracket in BCCI's central contract list. His success in IPL has always helped him stay in the Playing XI in the T20 league. Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma is second in the list. The prolific batsman has earned over Rs 131 crore. Third, on the list is Virat Kohli. The Royal Challengers' Bangalore skipper comes with an income of over Rs 126 crore.

MS Dhoni emerges as the highest-paid player in IPL; Checkout the figures!

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