Punjab Kings (PBKS) reached their second IPL final in history on Sunday evening (June 1), courtesy of the record-highest run-chase in the tournament playoffs against Mumbai Indians in Ahmedabad. PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer stole the show with perhaps one of the greatest IPL knocks. He smashed an unbeaten 87 off 41 balls, hitting eight sixes, four of which came in the penultimate over that sealed their place in the summit clash on Tuesday (June 3).&nbsp;After failing to guide his team home against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Qualifier 1, Iyer said, ‘his team has lost the battle, but not the war,’ and the PBKS skipper wasn’t wrong about anything. As cool and cold as his celebration was after winning Qualifier 2 for his side, Punjab’s dressing room erupted in joy alongside thousands of fans in attendance at the Narendra Modi Stadium, indicating what this win means to them.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-shreyas-iyer-plays-captain-s-knock-as-punjab-kings-beat-mumbai-indians-to-enter-second-final-1748808189688">Shreyas Iyer plays captain's knock as Punjab Kings beat Mumbai Indians to enter second IPL final</a><h3>Watch Video -&nbsp;</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A 1⃣1⃣ year wait ends... 🥹<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKS</a> are in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> 2025 Final and who better than Captain Shreyas Iyer to take them through ❤ Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/vIzPVlDqoC">https://t.co/vIzPVlDqoC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKSvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKSvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qualifier2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qualifier2</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheLastMile?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheLastMile</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabKingsIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/vILymKxqXp">pic.twitter.com/vILymKxqXp</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1929274325984538962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Chasing a mammoth 204 in a rain-hit game in Ahmedabad, Punjab lost both openers inside the first six overs. Australian Josh Inglis inflicted a beating on ace quick Jasprit Bumrah by hitting him for 20 runs in his first over, including two sixes and as many fours, while Iyer kept the run rate ticking during the middle overs. &nbsp;Considering the chasing record at this venue despite its dimensions, Iyer knew if they could keep wickets heading deep into the game, Punjab could pull off a miracle, which they eventually did. Although Inglis departed soon after, what turned the game on its head was an 84-run match-winning partnership between Iyer and Nehal Wadhera (48 off 29 balls).&nbsp; &nbsp;The left-right combination put MI captain Hardik Pandya and his bowlers under pressure, with the skipper making a similar mistake of not knowing when to complete Bumrah’s overs. While the world’s best seamer made a comeback in his next two overs, he leaked runs in his last and returned wicketless (for the second time this season), with Mumbai ultimately bearing the brunt of it. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the left-arm pacer Ashwani Kumar bowled the 19th over, and with him having over 20 runs (23) to defend, everyone thought the game was well poised. Iyer, however, had different plans.&nbsp; &nbsp;Eager to finish it off inside the same over, the PBKS captain hammered four massive sixes and delivered the knockout punch, winning the game for his team by five wickets and one over remaining. Those four sixes also helped him become the PBKS batter with the most sixes hit (38 and counting) in a season.

IPL 2025: PBKS dressing room erupts in joy after captain Iyer smashes 4 sixes in an over to complete historic chase – WATCH

Punjab Kings (PBKS) reached their second IPL final in history on Sunday evening (June 1), courtesy of the record-highest run-chase in the tournament playoffs against Mumbai Indians in Ahmedabad. PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer stole the show with perhaps one of the greatest IPL knocks. He smashed an unbeaten 87 off 41 balls, hitting eight sixes, four of which came in the penultimate over that sealed their place in the summit clash on Tuesday (June 3). After failing to guide his team home against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Qualifier 1, Iyer said, ‘his team has lost the battle, but not the war,’ and the PBKS skipper wasn’t wrong about anything. As cool and cold as his celebration was after winning Qualifier 2 for his side, Punjab’s dressing room erupted in joy alongside thousands of fans in attendance at the Narendra Modi Stadium, indicating what this win means to them. Also read | Shreyas Iyer plays captain's knock as Punjab Kings beat Mumbai Indians to enter second IPL final Watch Video -

With 38 sixes and counting, PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer already tops the list of Punjab players with the most sixes hit in a single IPL season.&nbsp;

Punjab Kings (PBKS) seamer Arshdeep Singh has recalled his favourite IPL game ahead of his side’s crucial Qualifier 2 tie against Mumbai Indians on Sunday (June 1) in Ahmedabad. The left-arm quick, who has picked 18 wickets in 15 contested matches in IPL 2025, chose one of the games against the same side played a few years ago as his best IPL game to date.&nbsp;Having made his IPL debut six years ago in 2019, Arshdeep, without thinking twice, picked his debut game as his best memory in the league but later added a game against Mumbai Indians (at the Wankhede) in 2023, wherein he returned with four wickets, as among his most cherishable moments in IPL. Arshdeep made headlines for picking two quick wickets in the final over against MI, wherein he clean-bowled Tilak Varma, breaking his middle stump.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-qualifier-2-pbks-vs-mi-ahmedabad-receives-slight-drizzle-on-match-eve-as-rain-threatens-clash-punjab-mumbai-ahmedabad-1748760801762">IPL 2025, Qualifier 2: Ahmedabad receives slight drizzle on match eve as rain threatens PBKS-MI clash</a> &nbsp;"When I made my debut for the first time,” Arshdeep said of his favourite IPL memory in an exclusive chat on JioHotStar and Star Sports. &nbsp;“But the best match, what I feel, was against Mumbai Indians in Wankhede. MI were chasing some 220-odd runs, and I finished with four wickets, and we won the game. So, it's very close to my heart. &nbsp;"And in this season, I'm looking forward to helping Punjab win their first title in IPL and create a legacy for Punjab Kings in the coming years by doing well for them,” he continued.<h2>‘On handling pressure’ &nbsp;</h2>PBKS bought Arshdeep Singh for INR 18 crore at last year’s auction, making him among the most expensive picks ever, and rightly so, for what he brings to the table – his ability to pick wickets at any time during the game alongside handling pressure with utter calmness. &nbsp;Speaking on getting the opportunity to bowl at a crucial juncture of the match and how he handles pressure, Arshdeep said, "When I get a chance, whether the team is under pressure and we have to stop runs or take wickets when they give me the ball, I feel good that they are showing trust in me.&nbsp; &nbsp;“So, I enjoy the responsibility that I get, no matter what stage it is. And at that time, I try not to feel the pressure and enjoy the moment and bring good results for the team. It doesn't happen on a few occasions, but I try not to let it affect me, and when I get a chance in the next match, I do my best and win matches for the team,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Arshdeep’s PBKS will face star-studded Mumbai in IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad; the winner will qualify for the final and face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the summit clash.

Qualifier 2: Arshdeep Singh recalls his favourite IPL match ahead of crucial tie against Mumbai Indians

Punjab Kings (PBKS) seamer Arshdeep Singh has recalled his favourite IPL game ahead of his side’s crucial Qualifier 2 tie against Mumbai Indians on Sunday (June 1) in Ahmedabad. The left-arm quick, who has picked 18 wickets in 15 contested matches in IPL 2025, chose one of the games against the same side played a few years ago as his best IPL game to date. Having made his IPL debut six years ago in 2019, Arshdeep, without thinking twice, picked his debut game as his best memory in the league but later added a game against Mumbai Indians (at the Wankhede) in 2023, wherein he returned with four wickets, as among his most cherishable moments in IPL. Arshdeep made headlines for picking two quick wickets in the final over against MI, wherein he clean-bowled Tilak Varma, breaking his middle stump. Also read | IPL 2025, Qualifier 2: Ahmedabad receives slight drizzle on match eve as rain threatens PBKS-MI clash "When I made my debut for the first time,” Arshdeep said of his favourite IPL memory in an exclusive chat on JioHotStar and Star Sports. “But the best match, what I feel, was against Mumbai Indians in Wankhede. MI were chasing some 220-odd runs, and I finished with four wickets, and we won the game. So, it's very close to my heart. "And in this season, I'm looking forward to helping Punjab win their first title in IPL and create a legacy for Punjab Kings in the coming years by doing well for them,” he continued. ‘On handling pressure’ PBKS bought Arshdeep Singh for INR 18 crore at last year’s auction, making him among the most expensive picks ever, and rightly so, for what he brings to the table – his ability to pick wickets at any time during the game alongside handling pressure with utter calmness. Speaking on getting the opportunity to bowl at a crucial juncture of the match and how he handles pressure, Arshdeep said, "When I get a chance, whether the team is under pressure and we have to stop runs or take wickets when they give me the ball, I feel good that they are showing trust in me. “So, I enjoy the responsibility that I get, no matter what stage it is. And at that time, I try not to feel the pressure and enjoy the moment and bring good results for the team. It doesn't happen on a few occasions, but I try not to let it affect me, and when I get a chance in the next match, I do my best and win matches for the team,” he continued. Meanwhile, Arshdeep’s PBKS will face star-studded Mumbai in IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad; the winner will qualify for the final and face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the summit clash.

Arshdeep, who has picked 18 wickets in 15 contested matches in IPL 2025, chose one of the games against the same side played a few years ago as his best IPL game to date.

Ahmedabad, the venue for IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians, received a slight drizzle on Saturday (May 31), threatening to spoil Sunday’s blockbuster tie at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium. Although the city hasn’t experienced heavy showers leading up to this season’s penultimate game, the rain briefly affected PBKS’ training session on the match eve, per the latest reports.&nbsp;Will it rain on Sunday evening in Ahmedabad? &nbsp;The weather forecast for Sunday’s Qualifier 2 suggests the likelihood of rain, with Accuweather predicting a breezy evening with the possibility of late showers. Although the chances of rain abandoning the Punjab vs Mumbai clash in Ahmedabad are minimal, there remain adequate reasons for caution.&nbsp; &nbsp;What happens if Qualifier 2 gets washed out? &nbsp;Should rain wash out any chance of this game getting underway on Sunday, also considering there remains no reserve day for Qualifier 2, the table-toppers – Punjab Kings (PBKS) will advance to the IPL 2025 Final. They get an automatic qualification by their superior finish on the points table following the league stage.&nbsp; &nbsp;While Punjab finished the group stage with 19 points from 14 contested matches, winning nine, Mumbai Indians stood fourth on the table with 16 points.<h2>Match Preview &nbsp;</h2>Punjab and Mumbai will face off in the penultimate game of the season in Ahmedabad. Punjab is playing Qualifier 2 after losing the first game of IPL 2025 playoffs to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, while Mumbai advanced to this stage after topping Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pbks-vs-mi-ipl-2025-yuzvendra-chahal-ready-to-take-injections-if-needed-to-play-qualifier-2-report-punjab-kings-ahmedabad-1748756622640">IPL 2025: Yuzvendra Chahal ready to take injections if needed to play Qualifier 2 – Report</a> &nbsp;At PBKS, Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting‘s partnership turned the tables around for the franchise, as they finished first on the points table only for the second time in history and the first time after 2014. Their winning spree in IPL 2025 impressed everyone, including the pundits, with some of them backing PBKS to win their maiden title this time. &nbsp;On the other hand, star-studded Mumbai Indians (MI) have advanced to the IPL 2025 playoffs despite a shallow start to the tournament. Under new captain Hardik Pandya, Mumbai began tasting success once ace quick Jasprit Bumrah returned to cricket following a four-month hiatus, winning enough games to enter the top four.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, with them having all the arsenal required to chase their record sixth title, Mumbai will come all guns blazing against Punjab, making this a mouth-watering contest. &nbsp;Here are the predicted playing Xis of both teams – &nbsp;PBKS - Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Josh Inglis (wk), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Arshdeep Singh, Kyle Jamieson and Yuzvendra Chahal &nbsp;MI - Rohit Sharma, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (captain), Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Richard Gleeson and Ashwani Kumar

IPL 2025, Qualifier 2: Ahmedabad receives slight drizzle on match eve as rain threatens PBKS-MI clash

Ahmedabad, the venue for IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians, received a slight drizzle on Saturday (May 31), threatening to spoil Sunday’s blockbuster tie at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium. Although the city hasn’t experienced heavy showers leading up to this season’s penultimate game, the rain briefly affected PBKS’ training session on the match eve, per the latest reports. Will it rain on Sunday evening in Ahmedabad? The weather forecast for Sunday’s Qualifier 2 suggests the likelihood of rain, with Accuweather predicting a breezy evening with the possibility of late showers. Although the chances of rain abandoning the Punjab vs Mumbai clash in Ahmedabad are minimal, there remain adequate reasons for caution. What happens if Qualifier 2 gets washed out? Should rain wash out any chance of this game getting underway on Sunday, also considering there remains no reserve day for Qualifier 2, the table-toppers – Punjab Kings (PBKS) will advance to the IPL 2025 Final. They get an automatic qualification by their superior finish on the points table following the league stage. While Punjab finished the group stage with 19 points from 14 contested matches, winning nine, Mumbai Indians stood fourth on the table with 16 points. Match Preview Punjab and Mumbai will face off in the penultimate game of the season in Ahmedabad. Punjab is playing Qualifier 2 after losing the first game of IPL 2025 playoffs to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, while Mumbai advanced to this stage after topping Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator. Also read | IPL 2025: Yuzvendra Chahal ready to take injections if needed to play Qualifier 2 – Report At PBKS, Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting‘s partnership turned the tables around for the franchise, as they finished first on the points table only for the second time in history and the first time after 2014. Their winning spree in IPL 2025 impressed everyone, including the pundits, with some of them backing PBKS to win their maiden title this time. On the other hand, star-studded Mumbai Indians (MI) have advanced to the IPL 2025 playoffs despite a shallow start to the tournament. Under new captain Hardik Pandya, Mumbai began tasting success once ace quick Jasprit Bumrah returned to cricket following a four-month hiatus, winning enough games to enter the top four. However, with them having all the arsenal required to chase their record sixth title, Mumbai will come all guns blazing against Punjab, making this a mouth-watering contest. Here are the predicted playing Xis of both teams – PBKS - Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Josh Inglis (wk), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Arshdeep Singh, Kyle Jamieson and Yuzvendra Chahal MI - Rohit Sharma, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (captain), Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Richard Gleeson and Ashwani Kumar

The weather forecast for Sunday’s Qualifier 2 suggests the likelihood of rain, with Accuweather predicting a breezy evening with the possibility of late showers.

Mumbai Indians (MI) opener Rohit Sharma rode on luck to steer his team into Qualifier 2 following a 20-run win over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Eliminator in Mullanpur on Friday (May 30). Rohit scored four fifties this season thus far, with all coming in wins; however, his latest – 81 off 50 balls, including four sixes and five fours, was impactful yet lucky.&nbsp;After being dropped twice in the first three overs, Rohit slammed a quickfire 81 to help Mumbai cross 200 in New Chandigarh, taking early advantage in the game. During the game, he also completed 300 sixes in the IPL, becoming only the second batter after Chris Gayle to achieve this feat. &nbsp;"I definitely would have liked to get more [fifties]. But today was a good day for us as a team," Rohit said after winning the Player-of-the-Match award.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I do understand the importance of playing this Eliminator and going through this next step, taking that step forward. Again, a complete team performance, which we are really, really proud of." &nbsp;"To be honest, I've played all those shots in the game before, and unfortunately, I found fielders," Rohit said.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Somewhere down the line, you know, you've got to be lucky, and today was that day for me. I got lucky. &nbsp;"You know, those catches were dropped. But again, like I said, even after the drops, you still have to play well to get those runs. And that is what I was focusing on, how I can keep that momentum going, keep that tempo going, which was brilliant from our entire batting unit to get that score. And then, like I said, it was a good bowling effort as well,” he continued.&nbsp;<h2>Rohit praises new partner Bairstow &nbsp;</h2>Rohit had a new opening partner in Jonny Bairstow for the Eliminator after Ryan Rickelton returned home to honour international commitments. Having played against Bairstow for over a decade, Rohit knows how dangerous he could be on a given day, and as life had it, it was Bairstow’s day to enjoy. &nbsp;The English cricketer scored 47 off 22 balls, stitching an 84-run stand with Rohit for the first wicket. &nbsp;"I've watched him over the years being on the other side," Rohit said of Bairstow. &nbsp;"But it was nice to be on the same side and have a crack at it. We know the quality that he has; a lot of experience playing this format. And we know what he can do upfront with the bat. That is exactly what he did. It never looked like he was playing his first game for this franchise. You know, got settled in pretty well, took his chances, and it came off. And it was a good start. We always look for that start. We got that start, and we then obviously capitalised on it,” he said.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians will now face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad on Sunday (June 1), with the winner of that game advancing to the IPL 2025 final.&nbsp;

IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma ‘rides on luck’ to see Mumbai Indians through to Qualifier 2

Mumbai Indians (MI) opener Rohit Sharma rode on luck to steer his team into Qualifier 2 following a 20-run win over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Eliminator in Mullanpur on Friday (May 30). Rohit scored four fifties this season thus far, with all coming in wins; however, his latest – 81 off 50 balls, including four sixes and five fours, was impactful yet lucky. After being dropped twice in the first three overs, Rohit slammed a quickfire 81 to help Mumbai cross 200 in New Chandigarh, taking early advantage in the game. During the game, he also completed 300 sixes in the IPL, becoming only the second batter after Chris Gayle to achieve this feat. "I definitely would have liked to get more [fifties]. But today was a good day for us as a team," Rohit said after winning the Player-of-the-Match award. "I do understand the importance of playing this Eliminator and going through this next step, taking that step forward. Again, a complete team performance, which we are really, really proud of." "To be honest, I've played all those shots in the game before, and unfortunately, I found fielders," Rohit said. "Somewhere down the line, you know, you've got to be lucky, and today was that day for me. I got lucky. "You know, those catches were dropped. But again, like I said, even after the drops, you still have to play well to get those runs. And that is what I was focusing on, how I can keep that momentum going, keep that tempo going, which was brilliant from our entire batting unit to get that score. And then, like I said, it was a good bowling effort as well,” he continued. Rohit praises new partner Bairstow Rohit had a new opening partner in Jonny Bairstow for the Eliminator after Ryan Rickelton returned home to honour international commitments. Having played against Bairstow for over a decade, Rohit knows how dangerous he could be on a given day, and as life had it, it was Bairstow’s day to enjoy. The English cricketer scored 47 off 22 balls, stitching an 84-run stand with Rohit for the first wicket. "I've watched him over the years being on the other side," Rohit said of Bairstow. "But it was nice to be on the same side and have a crack at it. We know the quality that he has; a lot of experience playing this format. And we know what he can do upfront with the bat. That is exactly what he did. It never looked like he was playing his first game for this franchise. You know, got settled in pretty well, took his chances, and it came off. And it was a good start. We always look for that start. We got that start, and we then obviously capitalised on it,” he said. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians will now face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad on Sunday (June 1), with the winner of that game advancing to the IPL 2025 final.

After being dropped twice in the first three overs, Rohit slammed a quickfire 81 to help Mumbai cross 200 in New Chandigarh, taking early advantage in the game.

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson admits his team fell short of options against spin during the middle overs against SunRisers Hyderabad, which led to their exit from IPL 2024.

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson admits his team fell short of options against spin during the middle overs against SunRisers Hyderabad, which led to their exit from IPL 2024. Samson said SRH made most of the conditions in the second innings by bowling two left-arm spinners in the middle overs, with the ball stopping now and then. Although his team failed to reach the finals this season, Samson feels RR has unearthed a brilliant talent in Riyan Parag, who is now ready for his India debut. "I think we were found short of options in the middle overs against spin, and I think that's where we lost the game," Samson said in the post-match presser. "Against left-arm spin, we had three-four right-handers in the middle and the ball was stopping. But we could've tried a bit more [options] - reverse-sweep or use of the crease a bit more - and they [SRH] also bowled really well, actually,” Samson praised SRH’s Abhishek Sharma and Shahbaz Ahmed. ALSO READ: IPL 2024 Playoff: SunRisers Hyderabad demolish Rajasthan Royals to book showdown clash with Kolkata With no dew during the game, the SRH successfully defended a par total at Chepauk, where the ball turned and gripped more in the second innings. Per the broadcaster, the average turn in the first innings was 1.8 degrees but increased to 3.3 in the second. For the crucial knockout in Chennai, where spinners often get more purchase of the pitch, SRH dropped two spin mainstays - Vijayakanth Viyaskanth and Mayank Markande and instead brought in Shahbaz as the Impact Sub during the first innings. The all-rounder played a handy knock of 18 off 18, hitting one six; he stood tall with the ball in hand, returning with three for 23 in four overs. Alongside Abhishek – a part-timer, both conceded just 47 runs in eight overs, picking five wickets. Parag’s time has come Riyan Parag was a flop show last season, scoring just 78 in seven matches played; however, he turned the tides this year by ending up as the highest run-scorer for his team, amassing 573 runs in 15 games at a strike rate close to 150. Moreover, the captain praised keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel also, who top-scored with 55 against SunRisers Hyderabad. "To be very honest, we've had some brilliant games not only this season, but the last three years have been a great project for our franchise. "We've found some really great talent for the country, I think. Riyan Parag coming out of this season and Dhruv Jurel and a lot of them are looking really exciting, not only for RR but for the Indian cricket team,” Samson said. Meanwhile, Parag and Abhishek are not part of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad, with the BCCI selectors keen on trying them first in the bilateral series.

IPL 2024: Samson rues middle order slump for SRH loss; calls for Riyan Parag to break into India team

A Shubman Gill masterclass was on display at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday night. The young right-hander made this tournament his own with a breathtaking performance against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2.

A Shubman Gill masterclass was on display at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday night. The young right-hander made this tournament his own with a breathtaking performance against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2. Gill slammed a stunning 129 off 60 balls – his third century in the past four innings and surpassed RCB captain Faf du Plessis for most runs this season. In 16 matches, Gill has 851 runs to his name. Following the match that saw Gujarat beat Mumbai by 62 runs to seal the IPL 2023 Final berth, Gill admitted those three sixes off Akash Madhwal’s over changed the momentum for him and his team. Extraordinary!😯 Shubman Gill is putting on a show once again with his supreme batting 💥#TATAIPL | #Qualifier2 | #GTvMI | @ShubmanGill pic.twitter.com/aE8nEZxI19 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 26, 2023 × "For me, it's all about playing ball to ball, assessing the situation over by over," Gill told Star after winning the Player of the Match award. "Maybe the over in which I hit three sixes, that's when I got the momentum to go big, and I realised maybe this is my day, and I have to make it big because it is a good wicket to bat on." ALSO READ: IPL 2023: 'One of the finest T20 innings I have seen,' GT captain Hardik Pandya lauds superman Shubman Gill Earlier, Gill was dropped on 30 by Tim David, and since that moment, he didn’t look back and hammered every bowler coming his way. While those three sixes remain the highlight of the evening, Gill hitting Cameron Green for a flat-batted six later in the inning stunned everyone too. ICYMI! A SIX that left everyone in 🤯🤯 How would you describe that shot from Shubman Gill?#TATAIPL | #Qualifier2 | #GTvMI | @ShubmanGill pic.twitter.com/BAd8NDVB0e — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 26, 2023 × "[Six-hitting] is not a conscious decision. Obviously, you keep practising, you want to keep growing, want to keep evolving as a batsman," Gill said. "But I feel the belief is more important, and that's what I have had this year and the last year as well." The international run helped me – Gill Since the Bangladesh tour last December, where Gill completed his first Test hundred, he carried that form in the white-ball series against New Zealand this year, becoming the fifth Indian batter to score a double hundred in ODIs. Against the Kiwis in the T20I series that followed, Gill, on this ground only, notched his maiden ton in the shortest format. Heading into the IPL 2023 with such a superb touch, Gill ought to deliver, and he did. "It helps when you are coming off a good international season with runs under the belt," he said. "With me, I know it's about starting [well]; I know once I start, I can keep going. "Last year, from the West Indies tour, that's when I shifted gears. I got injured in 2021 leading up to the IPL, and I was out for a couple of months. That's when I started realising the areas to work on and made some technical changes in my batting around December when I was called up for the New Zealand series just after the T20 World Cup," Gill added. With all eyes on the ultimate prize now, Gill and Gujarat Titans will aim to defend the crown when they take on MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings on Sunday in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

IPL 2023: Superstar Shubman Gill reveals the moment THAT changed the game for Gujarat against Mumbai

Gujarat Titans have cruised to their second successive IPL final, and this time, all credit goes to star opener Shubman Gill, who notched up his third hundred of the season.

Gujarat Titans have cruised to their second successive IPL final, and this time, all credit goes to star opener Shubman Gill, who notched up his third hundred of the season. In the rain-hit Qualifier 2 against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2023, Shubman scored a brilliant 129 off 60 balls – an innings GT captain Hardik Pandya calls the best he has ever seen in this format. Hardik showered praises on the franchise's future superstar, saying the clarity with which Gill has batted this season, he deserves to touch the skies. The right-handed opener surpassed RCB captain Faf du Plessis for the Orange Cap already, as he has amassed 851 runs in 16 matches at an average of 60.79 and a strike rate of 156.43. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Shubman Gill shines as GT storm into final after beating MI by 62 runs Following the match, Hardik said, "The clarity this year he has. The confidence that he is carrying is amazing. The innings which I saw today was one of the finest innings I have seen in a T20 game." After being asked to bat first, Gujarat got off to a flyer, with Gill chipping in with fours early on. However, after he got dropped on 30 by Tim David, Gill switched gears and went bonkers, slamming every bowler for boundaries. His third ton (129) in four innings, which also happens to be the highest individual score in IPL playoffs, helped GT put up a mammoth 233 for three in 20 overs. The man in sublime touch had made batting look utterly easy - something Pandya also agrees to. "At no point in time, he looked rushed, at no point he looked like he was not in control. It looked as if someone was throwing down the balls and he was just hitting. He is a superstar and is going to do big things to franchise cricket and Indian cricket," Hardik added. Gujarat set up a summit clash with CSK 234 was never going to be easy to chase, given the stage, the pressure, and what was at stake. Mumbai, unlikely how they had batted in the lead-up to this game, looked under pressure and lost early wickets. While Ishan Kishan and Cameron Green suffered injuries, with Ishan getting ruled out due to concussion, MI had little to rely on during the chase. However, their star performer Suryakumar Yadav and emerging left-hander Tilak Varma did play counter-attacking innings, this mountain score proved too much for the former champions, as eventually they crumbled under pressure and fell shy of the target by 62 runs. Mohit Sharma picked up five wickets for ten runs, while Rashid Khan and Mohammed Shami returned with two wickets each. Gujarat Titans will take on Chennai Super Kings for the IPL crown at the same venue on Sunday, May 28th. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

IPL 2023: 'One of the finest T20 innings I have seen,' GT captain Hardik Pandya lauds superman Shubman Gill

GT vs MI Qualifier 2 IPL 2023 Rain Update: Gujarat Titans will lock horns with Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday, May 26.

GT vs MI Qualifier 2 IPL 2023 Rain Update: Gujarat Titans will lock horns with Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday, May 26. Five times IPL winners Mumbai Indians qualified for Qualifier 2 as they defeated KL Rahul's Lucknow Super Giants in the eliminator round. Defending champions Gujarat Titans lost against Chennai Super Kings in Qualifier 1. However, they got another chance to make it to the finals, as they finished the league stage as the table toppers. The team which loses in the IPL 2023 Qualifier 2 will be out of the tournament. The winning team will square off against Chennai Super Kings in the summit clash of IPL 2023. Gujarat Titans vs Mumbai Indians is one of the most awaited clashes in IPL 2023. However, according to the weather predictions, Ahmedabad might receive rain today. It raises the question of which team will qualify for the IPL 2023 finals if rain interrupts the match. GT vs MI Qualifier 2 IPL 2023: Match Details Match: Gujarat Titans vs Mumbai Indians, Qualifier 2, Indian Premier League 2023 Date: Friday, May 26, 2023 Time: 07:30 PM Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad GT vs MI Qualifier 2 IPL 2023: Probable Playing XI Mumbai Indians: Ishan Kishan (wk), Rohit Sharma (c), Cameron Green, Suryakumar Yadav, Tim David, Nehal Wadhera, Tilak Varma, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Kumar Kartikeya, Chris Jordan Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Hardik Pandya (capt), Vijay Shankar, David Miller, Abhinav Manohar/Dasun Shanaka, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mohit Sharma, Mohammad Shami GT vs MI IPL 2023: Pitch & Weather Report Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium has a pitch that always favours batters. Gujarat Titan's Shubman Gill has scored the maximum runs for the team at this stadium. However, bowlers might get a bit of a swing with the new ball in the initial overs. According to the meteorological department, the chances for precipitation on May 26 in Ahmedabad are 20 per cent. However, the weather is expected to be clear at the time of the clash between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. GT vs MI IPL 2023 Rain Update: Who will win 'Qualifier 2' if rain interrupts the match? If the qualifier match between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians gets washed out due to rain, Gujarat Titans will qualify for the finals owing to their better league stage finish. However, the probability of this happening is very low. ALSO READ | GT vs MI Qualifier 2 Head to Head: IPL 2023 stats, playing XIs, pitch report, live-streaming details & more

GT vs MI Qualifier 2 IPL 2023: Check which team will qualify for finals if rain spoils GT vs MI match

We are at the business end of IPL 2023 as it’s time for Qualifier 2 between defending champions Gujarat Titans and former five-time winners Mumbai Indians. Two star-studded sides have ticked all boxes this season and are now just one step away from making the finals.

We are at the business end of IPL 2023 as it’s time for Qualifier 2 between defending champions Gujarat Titans and former five-time winners Mumbai Indians. Two star-studded sides have ticked all boxes this season and are now just one step away from making the finals. This high-octane clash will be underway at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad tonight. Talking about the hosts – Gujarat Titans, Hardik Pandya-led side has barely done anything wrong this season, having stood first after the end of group stages. With nine wins from 14 games, Gujarat ensured they are in the top two; however, a 15-run loss at the hands of second-placed CSK in Qualifier 1 put them in this position. While Shubman Gill and Wriddhiman Saha are players in top form, the onus would fall on the middle order. The Indian all-rounders in Hardik and Vijay Shankar will have to step up for the hard-hitting lower-order, including David Miller and Rahul Tewatia, to come and hit the ground running. With Rashid Khan coming later on GT will back its batters to come good against MI bowlers – who put on an incredible show the other night against Lucknow Super Giants. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: 'Unlike Dhoni, Rohit doesn't get enough credit for captaincy' - Sunil Gavaskar lauds MI skipper Gujarat’s bowling has clicked as a unit, with Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma being the new ball and death specialist, respectively. In Noor Ahmad and Rashid - they have an attacking spin duo, which has troubled most batting line-ups. On the other hand, the team with a magnificent track record this season – especially during the second half, Mumbai Indians are the side to beat. A resurgence that saw them breaking into the top four despite losing four matches early on, the MI side has come good since then. Mumbai Indians on a rampage Though captain Rohit Sharma’s form and fitness remain a worry for the team, exceptional talents in Ishan Kishan, Cameron Green and Suryakumar Yadav have bailed them out on most occasions. Not to forget Tilak Varma and Nehal Wadhera - the two lefties who left a mark with their performances this season. With Tim David coming in as a finisher, Mumbai’s batting has proved to be threatening for every opposition. While their bowling appeared slightly weak in IPL 2023, given injuries to several first-team players, the backups have provided much-needed stability, with Akash Madhwal being the latest emerging stars. In Piyush Chawla, they have their highest wicket-taker this season, while the overseas pair of Chris Jordan and Jason Behrendorff is crucial throughout. Result Prediction – Given both teams are tougher to beat on the given day, Gujarat’s momentum and home support might see them cruise ahead and book a ticket for the final. Predicted XIs of both teams – Gujarat - Wriddhiman Saha, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Vijay Shankar, David Miller, Dasun Shanaka, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmed, Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma Mumbai - Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Cameron Green, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Nehal Wadhera, Tim David, Chris Jordan, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal and Jason Behrendorff WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

IPL 2023, Qualifier 2: Gujarat Titans vs Mumbai Indians - Match Preview and Result Prediction

IPL legend and a T20 master batter Chris Gayle has backed Afghanistan and Gujarat Titans ace spinner Rashid Khan and said that he will dictate terms against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023.

IPL legend and a T20 master batter Chris Gayle has backed Afghanistan and Gujarat Titans ace spinner Rashid Khan and said that he will dictate terms against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023. Gayle believes Rashid will threaten MI batters, mainly its captain Rohit Sharma and star player Suryakumar Yadav. Rashid has dismissed the veteran opener four out of six times, three in the previous as many outings, and also has a decent record against SKY too, who has been on a rampage this season. Ahead of the high-octane clash, Gayle said in his post on Twitter, “Rashid Khan will be the key in Qualifier 2. He has a great record against Rohit, dismissing him four times out of six, while with SKY he has conceded 67 runs at SR of 142 without ever dismissing him in #IPL. Will the tables turn? @dafabet.” Rashid Khan will be the key in Qualifier 2. He has a great record against Rohit dismissing him four times out of 6, while with SKY he has conceded 67 runs at SR of 142 without ever dismissing him in #IPL. Will the tables turn? @dafabet — Chris Gayle (@henrygayle) May 26, 2023 × Gujarat on top Gujarat Titans are, hands down, the most balanced team in IPL 2023 and unsurprisingly remain on the top of the points table with nine wins from 14 league matches. However, the 15-run loss at the hands of Chennai Super Kings in Qualifier 1 that saw them in this position fighting for a place in the finals for the second straight time. ALSO READ: IPL 2023, Qualifier 2: Gujarat Titans vs Mumbai Indians - Match Preview and Result Prediction Against Mumbai Indians in their previous clash, it was Rashid Khan only who starred for them. Though Suryakumar’s maiden IPL hundred stole all limelight in the first innings, Rashid’s four wickets and an impressive unbeaten 79 from 32 balls in the match brought him praises from all over. GT might have lost the contest by 27 runs, but Rashid’s outing will go down in the tournament’s history as the most memorable one. Mumbai hard to beat in knockouts Following a sluggish start this season, Mumbai Indians gained momentum in the second half, winning five out of the seven games and qualifying for the playoffs. They chased 200-plus targets more than twice this season, with everyone from the batting line-up contributing with runs. While their bowling had fallen short on most occasions, the inexperienced seamers and a certain Piyush Chawla wreaked havoc in the latter half of the tournament. Even in the 'eliminator' against Lucknow Super Giants, right-arm seamer Akash Madhwal picked his career-best figures of five for five. The winner of this match will face Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, May 28th. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

IPL 2023, Qualifier 2: Rashid Khan will hold key for Gujarat, is handy against Rohit, SKY, says Chris Gayle

The five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) are taking on defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2023 edition on Friday evening (May 26) in Ahmedabad. Ahead of the marquee face-off, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag opined on Rohit Sharma's batting and said that he isn't happy with MI skipper's style of approach.

<h2>'I'm not happy with his batting'</h2>

While speaking on Cricbuzz, Sehwag said, “I'm not happy with his batting. He's trying to do a lot of things. If you've already scored 30 runs in three overs, just why will you try scoring another 20 in the next over itself? If he stands there, he will keep getting loose balls. What he's doing, is, he's forcibly trying to hits fours and sixes off good deliveries. He's stepping out and getting out. If he waits, shows patience, it will reward him." 
Also Read:&nbsp;

“The day he scored 57 runs, he wasn't going after the bowlers. Muralitharan says one thing, whether you're a batter or bowler, you need to have patience. So, Rohit needs to show some patience. If you're chasing 200+ score, that's a different thing. But you're batting first, give yourself time. So, I'm not really happy with his batting right now,” Sehwag further added.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-form-should-be-observed-gavaskar-not-in-favour-of-ruling-out-kohli-from-indias-t20-wc-plans-596674">'His form should be observed': Gavaskar not in favour of ruling out Kohli from India's T20 WC plans</a>

Talking about Rohit, he has played some cameos and scored two half-centuries, with a total of 324 runs at 133.33, he has once again remained inconsistent. Hitman has often looked to go hard from the word go and time and again thrown his wicket after starts. In MI's must-win league stage game versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a bid to qualify for the playoffs, he scored a sedate 37-ball 57 but fell flat in the Eliminator versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), departing for 11 (10).

Rohit does not have a good record in IPL playoffs, or knockouts. Thus, he will be desperate to go big in MI's must-win game versus GT on Friday evening. The winner will take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the finale on Sunday (May 28) in Ahmedabad.

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The five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) are taking on defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2023 edition on Friday evening (May 26) in Ahmedabad.

The five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) are taking on defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2023 edition on Friday evening (May 26) in Ahmedabad. Ahead of the marquee face-off, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag opined on Rohit Sharma's batting and said that he isn't happy with MI skipper's style of approach. 'I'm not happy with his batting' While speaking on Cricbuzz, Sehwag said, “I'm not happy with his batting. He's trying to do a lot of things. If you've already scored 30 runs in three overs, just why will you try scoring another 20 in the next over itself? If he stands there, he will keep getting loose balls. What he's doing, is, he's forcibly trying to hits fours and sixes off good deliveries. He's stepping out and getting out. If he waits, shows patience, it will reward him." Also Read: “The day he scored 57 runs, he wasn't going after the bowlers. Muralitharan says one thing, whether you're a batter or bowler, you need to have patience. So, Rohit needs to show some patience. If you're chasing 200+ score, that's a different thing. But you're batting first, give yourself time. So, I'm not really happy with his batting right now,” Sehwag further added. Also Read: 'His form should be observed': Gavaskar not in favour of ruling out Kohli from India's T20 WC plans Talking about Rohit, he has played some cameos and scored two half-centuries, with a total of 324 runs at 133.33, he has once again remained inconsistent. Hitman has often looked to go hard from the word go and time and again thrown his wicket after starts. In MI's must-win league stage game versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a bid to qualify for the playoffs, he scored a sedate 37-ball 57 but fell flat in the Eliminator versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), departing for 11 (10). Rohit does not have a good record in IPL playoffs, or knockouts. Thus, he will be desperate to go big in MI's must-win game versus GT on Friday evening. The winner will take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the finale on Sunday (May 28) in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Not happy with his batting': Virender Sehwag on Rohit Sharma ahead of GT vs MI tie in Qualifier 2

Mumbai Indians (MI) went past Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2023's Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24). The five-time winners, who entered the playoffs as the fourth-placed side, romped past LSG by 81 runs in defence of 182/8 courtesy of brilliance from young pacer Akash Madhwal and quickfire knocks from Suryakumar Yadav, Cameron Green and Nehal Wadhera.

Opting to bat first, MI rode on contributions from their main batters propelled Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. to a challenging total before Madhwal's five-for (5 for 5 in 3.3 overs), smart bowling changes and LSG succumbing to the pressure led Mumbai to Qualifier 2, where they meet defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) on Friday (May 26).

After the game, Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green -- who scored a century in MI's last game in the league stage and is churning out key wickets as well -- claimed that Rohit asked the team to focus on peaking at the right time than starting with a bang and then fading away.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-mumbais-late-resurgence-to-send-shivers-down-chennais-spine-says-ex-csk-opener-matthew-hayden-596232">IPL 2023: Mumbai's late resurgence to send shivers down Chennai's spine, says ex-CSK opener Matthew Hayden</a>

<h2>'You want to be peaking at the right time'</h2>

“All the experience that he has got in India and in the IPL. I think MI has never won the first game in the IPL, I think. He has tried to tell us a few times to calm us down at the start. You want to be peaking at this time of the year (tournament).

“That is what he has been speaking about. You don’t want to be playing good cricket at the start and then slowing down. You want to be peaking now. Ya, and we play a nice game tonight,” Cameron Green told the broadcasters.

MI will now ride on their sublime form to challenge GT and prevent them from entering their second straight IPL final. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already qualified for the summit clash, to be held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 28).

Mumbai Indians (MI) went past Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2023's Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24). The five-time winners, who entered the playoffs as the fourth-placed side, romped past LSG by 81 runs in defence of 182/8 courtesy of brilliance from young pacer Akash Madhwal and quickfire knocks from Suryakumar Yadav, Cameron Green and Nehal Wadhera.

Mumbai Indians (MI) went past Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2023's Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24). The five-time winners, who entered the playoffs as the fourth-placed side, romped past LSG by 81 runs in defence of 182/8 courtesy of brilliance from young pacer Akash Madhwal and quickfire knocks from Suryakumar Yadav, Cameron Green and Nehal Wadhera. Opting to bat first, MI rode on contributions from their main batters propelled Rohit Sharma & Co. to a challenging total before Madhwal's five-for (5 for 5 in 3.3 overs), smart bowling changes and LSG succumbing to the pressure led Mumbai to Qualifier 2, where they meet defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) on Friday (May 26). After the game, Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green -- who scored a century in MI's last game in the league stage and is churning out key wickets as well -- claimed that Rohit asked the team to focus on peaking at the right time than starting with a bang and then fading away. Also Read: IPL 2023: Mumbai's late resurgence to send shivers down Chennai's spine, says ex-CSK opener Matthew Hayden 'You want to be peaking at the right time' “All the experience that he has got in India and in the IPL. I think MI has never won the first game in the IPL, I think. He has tried to tell us a few times to calm us down at the start. You want to be peaking at this time of the year (tournament). “That is what he has been speaking about. You don’t want to be playing good cricket at the start and then slowing down. You want to be peaking now. Ya, and we play a nice game tonight,” Cameron Green told the broadcasters. MI will now ride on their sublime form to challenge GT and prevent them from entering their second straight IPL final. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already qualified for the summit clash, to be held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 28).

Rohit Sharma wanted MI to peak now, not at the start, says Cameron Green as Mumbai enter Qualifier 2

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) entered Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023 with a splendid 81-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24) in Chennai. Opting to bat first, the five-time winners rode on Cameron Green, Suryakumar Yadav and Nehal Wadhera's quickfire knocks to post a challenging 182-8 before dismissing Lucknow for a paltry 101 in 16.3 overs.

With this win, Mumbai have booked a place in Qualifier 2 and will now fight it out with defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) to enter the final, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already qualified. After guiding MI to the top three, Rohit earned praise from Little Master Sunil Gavaskar and claimed that his captaincy is underrated.&nbsp;Gavaskar pointed out that Rohit's captaincy isn't credited enough, unlike CSK skipper MS Dhoni.&nbsp;

<h2>'Rohit Sharma is underrated'</h2>

Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "Of course, he is underrated. The man has won five&nbsp;titles for Mumbai Indians. Let me give you an example. (Akash) Madhwal got Ayush Badoni, bowling over the wicket. He then went round the wicket to the left-hander Nicholas Pooran."

"Not a lot of bowlers necessarily do that because if they get their rhythm going bowling over the wicket, they will stick to over the wicket even it's a left-hander, trying to leave the left-hander. But he went around the wicket and produced an absolute gem of a delivery and got the man out."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-wanted-mi-to-peak-now-not-at-the-start-says-cameron-green-as-mumbai-enter-qualifier-2-596323">Rohit Sharma wanted MI to peak now, not at the start, says Cameron Green as Mumbai enter Qualifier 2</a>

"If that had been CSK and Dhoni was the captain. Everybody would have said 'Dhoni plotted Nicholas Pooran's dismissal. This is what happens to a great extent. There is also a little bit of hype, things sometimes work out," Gavaskar further added.

Gavaskar, thus, lauded Rohit for smartly using his bowlers, especially youngster and uncapped player Akash Madhwal, who returned with 5 for 5 in 3.3 overs in MI's big win over LSG. Mumbai will now aim to enter their seventh IPL final on Friday evening against Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) entered Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023 with a splendid 81-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24) in Chennai.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) entered Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023 with a splendid 81-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24) in Chennai. Opting to bat first, the five-time winners rode on Cameron Green, Suryakumar Yadav and Nehal Wadhera's quickfire knocks to post a challenging 182-8 before dismissing Lucknow for a paltry 101 in 16.3 overs. With this win, Mumbai have booked a place in Qualifier 2 and will now fight it out with defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) to enter the final, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already qualified. After guiding MI to the top three, Rohit earned praise from Little Master Sunil Gavaskar and claimed that his captaincy is underrated. Gavaskar pointed out that Rohit's captaincy isn't credited enough, unlike CSK skipper MS Dhoni. 'Rohit Sharma is underrated' Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "Of course, he is underrated. The man has won five titles for Mumbai Indians. Let me give you an example. (Akash) Madhwal got Ayush Badoni, bowling over the wicket. He then went round the wicket to the left-hander Nicholas Pooran." "Not a lot of bowlers necessarily do that because if they get their rhythm going bowling over the wicket, they will stick to over the wicket even it's a left-hander, trying to leave the left-hander. But he went around the wicket and produced an absolute gem of a delivery and got the man out." Also Read: Rohit Sharma wanted MI to peak now, not at the start, says Cameron Green as Mumbai enter Qualifier 2 "If that had been CSK and Dhoni was the captain. Everybody would have said 'Dhoni plotted Nicholas Pooran's dismissal. This is what happens to a great extent. There is also a little bit of hype, things sometimes work out," Gavaskar further added. Gavaskar, thus, lauded Rohit for smartly using his bowlers, especially youngster and uncapped player Akash Madhwal, who returned with 5 for 5 in 3.3 overs in MI's big win over LSG. Mumbai will now aim to enter their seventh IPL final on Friday evening against Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat.

IPL 2023: 'Unlike Dhoni, Rohit doesn't get enough credit for captaincy' - Sunil Gavaskar lauds MI skipper

India's current head coach Rahul Dravid remains a big name in world cricket. The legendary cricketer had a highly successful career as one of India's main batters during his playing days, from 1996-2021. Dravid amassed 13,288 Test and 10,889 ODI runs and is now being looked upon as a coach who can change India's fortunes and help them end their ICC-title drought since 2013.

During Dravid's playing days, he was known to be a stylish batter who strived hard for his runs in the middle. The former Indian captain could also play the aggressor's role and, hence, was a versatile batter. His on-field demeanour was that of a calm and composed player, who didn't lose&nbsp;his cool very often on the 22-yard cricket strip. Nonetheless, whenever Dravid got angry, it made heads turn. During IPL 2013's Qualifier 2 match, between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, Dravid gave an earful to Mitchell Johnson.

Dravid had hit Johnson for a four, as RR opted to bat first, when the&nbsp;Aussie speedster said something to 'The Wall'. While the Indian star batter hit him for another four, on the very next delivery, Dravid responded to Johnson and their verbal spat caught everyone's attention. Here's the throwback video:

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While Dravid started the innings on fire, he departed for a 37-ball 43. Stuart Binny's quickfire 17-ball 27 propelled the one-time winners to a decent score, i.e. 165 for 6. However, it wasn't enough as Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai chased down the target on the penultimate ball with four wickets in hand. Dwayne Smith top-scored for MI, with a 44-ball 62, but Harbhajan Singh ended as the Player-of-the-Match for his 3 for 23.

Eventually, Johnson-starrer MI went onto win the IPL 2013 edition, beating MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 23&nbsp;runs in the final, played at the same venue.

India's current head coach Rahul Dravid remains a big name in world cricket. The legendary cricketer had a highly successful career as one of India's main batters during his playing days, from 1996-2021.

India's current head coach Rahul Dravid remains a big name in world cricket. The legendary cricketer had a highly successful career as one of India's main batters during his playing days, from 1996-2021. Dravid amassed 13,288 Test and 10,889 ODI runs and is now being looked upon as a coach who can change India's fortunes and help them end their ICC-title drought since 2013. During Dravid's playing days, he was known to be a stylish batter who strived hard for his runs in the middle. The former Indian captain could also play the aggressor's role and, hence, was a versatile batter. His on-field demeanour was that of a calm and composed player, who didn't lose his cool very often on the 22-yard cricket strip. Nonetheless, whenever Dravid got angry, it made heads turn. During IPL 2013's Qualifier 2 match, between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, Dravid gave an earful to Mitchell Johnson. Dravid had hit Johnson for a four, as RR opted to bat first, when the Aussie speedster said something to 'The Wall'. While the Indian star batter hit him for another four, on the very next delivery, Dravid responded to Johnson and their verbal spat caught everyone's attention. Here's the throwback video: × ALSO READ | From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach While Dravid started the innings on fire, he departed for a 37-ball 43. Stuart Binny's quickfire 17-ball 27 propelled the one-time winners to a decent score, i.e. 165 for 6. However, it wasn't enough as Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai chased down the target on the penultimate ball with four wickets in hand. Dwayne Smith top-scored for MI, with a 44-ball 62, but Harbhajan Singh ended as the Player-of-the-Match for his 3 for 23. Eventually, Johnson-starrer MI went onto win the IPL 2013 edition, beating MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 23 runs in the final, played at the same venue.

Throwback: When Rahul Dravid lost his cool at Mitchell Johnson in MI vs RR IPL 2013 clash – watch

Rajat Patidar won accolades after his stunning 112 not out in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) emphatic 14-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2022 Eliminator, at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Wednesday evening (May 25).&nbsp;

Courtesy of his blazing knock, RCB posted 207-4 and restricted Lucknow to 193-6 to proceed to the Qualifier 2, for the first time since 2016. On Friday (May 27), when RCB locked horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2 -- at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad -- the 28-year-old Patidar made heads turn once again by smashing an entertaining 42-ball 58, laced with 4 fours and 3 sixes at 138.10. With this, the uncapped&nbsp;player joined Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) former player Suresh Raina in an elite list for Indian batters.

Indians Scoring 50+ Scores in both Eliminator &amp; Qualifier 2 of an IPL Season 

Suresh Raina (2014)

Rajat Patidar (2022)*

The overall list -- comprising only three batters --&nbsp;also includes Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)'s Kane Williamson.&nbsp;

Talking about Raina, he had slammed an impressive 33-ball 54 -- versus Mumbai Indians (MI) -- and followed it up with a blistering 25-ball 87 in Qualifier 2, versus then known as Kings XI Punjab (KXIP).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-rohits-barren-run-to-mi-csks-mighty-fall-5-surprising-elements-from-ipl-2022s-league-stage-481871">Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage</a>

Despite Patidar's heroics, RCB only managed 157-8 with Prasidh Krishna (3 for 22) and Obed McCoy shining with the ball for RR.

During the mid-innings,&nbsp;McCoy, who finished with 3 for 23, told the broadcasters, "I actually think the wicket has extra bounce, it is seaming a lot as well and because of the extra bounce the variations worked well on the wicket. The plan was to stay a lot more focused, I know I am better than what I bowled in the previous match. So, it is just about going to the nets and working out on what I had to, on my run-up as well. I was kind of over-striding a bit in the last match, so I decided to work on it in the nets and that worked for me today. I love the challenge (of death bowling) and that will make me better as a player going forward."

Rajat Patidar won accolades after his stunning 112 not out in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) emphatic 14-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2022 Eliminator, at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Wednesday evening (May 25).

Rajat Patidar won accolades after his stunning 112 not out in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) emphatic 14-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2022 Eliminator, at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Wednesday evening (May 25). Courtesy of his blazing knock, RCB posted 207-4 and restricted Lucknow to 193-6 to proceed to the Qualifier 2, for the first time since 2016. On Friday (May 27), when RCB locked horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2 -- at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad -- the 28-year-old Patidar made heads turn once again by smashing an entertaining 42-ball 58, laced with 4 fours and 3 sixes at 138.10. With this, the uncapped player joined Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) former player Suresh Raina in an elite list for Indian batters. Indians Scoring 50+ Scores in both Eliminator & Qualifier 2 of an IPL Season Suresh Raina (2014) Rajat Patidar (2022)* The overall list -- comprising only three batters -- also includes Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)'s Kane Williamson. Talking about Raina, he had slammed an impressive 33-ball 54 -- versus Mumbai Indians (MI) -- and followed it up with a blistering 25-ball 87 in Qualifier 2, versus then known as Kings XI Punjab (KXIP). ALSO READ | Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage Despite Patidar's heroics, RCB only managed 157-8 with Prasidh Krishna (3 for 22) and Obed McCoy shining with the ball for RR. During the mid-innings, McCoy, who finished with 3 for 23, told the broadcasters, "I actually think the wicket has extra bounce, it is seaming a lot as well and because of the extra bounce the variations worked well on the wicket. The plan was to stay a lot more focused, I know I am better than what I bowled in the previous match. So, it is just about going to the nets and working out on what I had to, on my run-up as well. I was kind of over-striding a bit in the last match, so I decided to work on it in the nets and that worked for me today. I love the challenge (of death bowling) and that will make me better as a player going forward."

IPL 2022, RCB vs RR: Rajat Patidar joins Suresh Raina in unique list with blistering 58 in Qualifier 2

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat the Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2022 edition to set up a final date with Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans (GT). After losing the Qualifier 1 by seven wickets, Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan produced an all-round effort to beat the three-time runners-up to beautifully set up a final clash versus Gujarat.

On Friday evening (May 27), Faf &amp; Co. were asked to bat first as Sanju Samson finally managed to win the coin toss at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Being asked to bat first, RCB lost opener Virat Kohli for cheap, being dismissed by Prasidh Krishna for the second successive occasion, as Faf failed to lift the run-rate despite Rajat Patidar, the Eliminator's Player-of-the-Match, going great guns from his end.&nbsp;

While Obed McCoy&nbsp;dismissed Faf, Patidar held his end before his dismissal, 42-ball 58, changed the complexion of the game. From thereon, RCB never got going as they managed only 34 runs for the loss of five wickets in the final five overs. Even Dinesh Karthik, RCB's in-form finisher, failed to get going as&nbsp;McCoy and Prasidh returned with three scalps each.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-rcb-vs-rr-rajat-patidar-joins-suresh-raina-in-unique-list-with-blistering-58-in-qualifier-2-482719">IPL 2022, RCB vs RR: Rajat Patidar joins Suresh Raina in unique list with blistering 58 in Qualifier 2</a>

In reply, RR openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jos Buttler took on Md Siraj from the word go. The first-wicket stand took Rajasthan to a solid start before Jaiswal fell with the team's&nbsp;score at 61. Sanju joined Buttler who accelerated with ease and smacked some eye-catching boundaries -- going after Siraj, Shahbad Ahmed and Wanindu Hasaranga -- as RCB bowlers couldn't hold onto a tight line and length. Despite Samson's dismissal slowing things down to an extent, Buttler held his end and brought up his fifth IPL ton, fourth of the season, to propel RR into the final. The Englishman has returned to form in the playoffs and will hope for another memorable knock in the summit clash to help his side beat favourites and hosts Gujarat.

JOS - THE BOSS

Most 100s in IPL 
6 Chris Gayle 
5 Virat Kohli/ Jos Buttler 
4 Shane Watson/ David Warner/ KL Rahul

Hundreds in IPL Play Offs 
122 V Sehwag PBKS v CSK 2014 (Q2) 
117*S Watson CSK v SRH 2018 (Final) 
115*W Saha PBKS v KKR 2014 (Final) 
113 M Vijay CSK v DC 2012 (Q2) 
112*R Patidar RCB vs LSG 2022 (Eliminator) 
106*J Buttler RR vs RCB 2022 (Q2)

Buttler's 106*, off 60 deliveries, was laced with 10 fours and 6 sixes at a whopping strike rate of 176.67. The final between Gujarat and Rajasthan will be held on May 29 (Sunday) at the same venue.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat the Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2022 edition to set up a final date with Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans (GT).

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat the Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2022 edition to set up a final date with Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans (GT). After losing the Qualifier 1 by seven wickets, Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan produced an all-round effort to beat the three-time runners-up to beautifully set up a final clash versus Gujarat. On Friday evening (May 27), Faf & Co. were asked to bat first as Sanju Samson finally managed to win the coin toss at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Being asked to bat first, RCB lost opener Virat Kohli for cheap, being dismissed by Prasidh Krishna for the second successive occasion, as Faf failed to lift the run-rate despite Rajat Patidar, the Eliminator's Player-of-the-Match, going great guns from his end. While Obed McCoy dismissed Faf, Patidar held his end before his dismissal, 42-ball 58, changed the complexion of the game. From thereon, RCB never got going as they managed only 34 runs for the loss of five wickets in the final five overs. Even Dinesh Karthik, RCB's in-form finisher, failed to get going as McCoy and Prasidh returned with three scalps each. ALSO READ | IPL 2022, RCB vs RR: Rajat Patidar joins Suresh Raina in unique list with blistering 58 in Qualifier 2 In reply, RR openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jos Buttler took on Md Siraj from the word go. The first-wicket stand took Rajasthan to a solid start before Jaiswal fell with the team's score at 61. Sanju joined Buttler who accelerated with ease and smacked some eye-catching boundaries -- going after Siraj, Shahbad Ahmed and Wanindu Hasaranga -- as RCB bowlers couldn't hold onto a tight line and length. Despite Samson's dismissal slowing things down to an extent, Buttler held his end and brought up his fifth IPL ton, fourth of the season, to propel RR into the final. The Englishman has returned to form in the playoffs and will hope for another memorable knock in the summit clash to help his side beat favourites and hosts Gujarat. JOS - THE BOSS Most 100s in IPL 6 Chris Gayle 5 Virat Kohli/ Jos Buttler 4 Shane Watson/ David Warner/ KL Rahul Hundreds in IPL Play Offs 122 V Sehwag PBKS v CSK 2014 (Q2) 117*S Watson CSK v SRH 2018 (Final) 115*W Saha PBKS v KKR 2014 (Final) 113 M Vijay CSK v DC 2012 (Q2) 112*R Patidar RCB vs LSG 2022 (Eliminator) 106*J Buttler RR vs RCB 2022 (Q2) Buttler's 106*, off 60 deliveries, was laced with 10 fours and 6 sixes at a whopping strike rate of 176.67. The final between Gujarat and Rajasthan will be held on May 29 (Sunday) at the same venue.

Jos Buttler slams 4th ton of IPL 2022 as RR beat RCB by 7 wickets in Qualifier 2 to enter final

There is now only one match left before the IPL 2022 final, set to be held on Sunday evening (May 29). The Qualifier 2, en route to the summit clash, will see the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with each other at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Friday evening (May 27).

RCB is looking at its threatening best. After winning their last league stage encounter, versus Gujarat Titans (GT) -- who are already in the final, the Faf du Plessis-led franchise was helped by Mumbai Indians (MI), who beat Delhi Capitals (DC) to eliminate them and take RCB to the playoffs. In the Eliminator, RCB posted 207-4, riding on Rajat Patidar's 112 not out, and defended the total by restricting Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to 193-6. With this, RCB have booked a place in Qualifier 2 and they will look to topple the RR franchise, against whom they have had a good record in the last few&nbsp;seasons.&nbsp;

RR, on the other hand, ended at the second spot in the league stage and went on to lose to Gujarat in Qualifier 1, at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. While RR have relied on five bowlers, they may have to find a way to curtail the run-flow in the death overs. For now, RCB's batting depth and death-over specialists bowlers might give them an edge ahead of the marquee clash.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcbvslsg-kolkata-cop-turns-john-cena-to-force-out-intruder-leaves-virat-kohli-in-disbelief-watch-482393">RCBvsLSG: Kolkata cop turns John Cena to force out intruder, leaves Virat Kohli in disbelief - WATCH</a>

Match prediction for RCB vs RR clash: The&nbsp;pitch and overall conditions are expected to be a lot different than what it was in Kolkata.&nbsp;It is more about dry heat than&nbsp;humidity in Ahmedabad when compared to Kolkata. The ground has six red soil pitches and five black soil pitches, hence,&nbsp;the nature of the pitch could come down to the characteristics of the soil. In the past, the curator has left a covering of grass for a T20 game. Nonetheless, expect a pitch with more even bounce for Qualifier 2. Anything around 155-160 can be a winning total. Batting first team to win?

There is now only one match left before the IPL 2022 final, set to be held on Sunday evening (May 29). The Qualifier 2, en route to the summit clash, will see the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with each other at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Friday evening (May 27).

There is now only one match left before the IPL 2022 final, set to be held on Sunday evening (May 29). The Qualifier 2, en route to the summit clash, will see the three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) lock horns with each other at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Friday evening (May 27). RCB is looking at its threatening best. After winning their last league stage encounter, versus Gujarat Titans (GT) -- who are already in the final, the Faf du Plessis-led franchise was helped by Mumbai Indians (MI), who beat Delhi Capitals (DC) to eliminate them and take RCB to the playoffs. In the Eliminator, RCB posted 207-4, riding on Rajat Patidar's 112 not out, and defended the total by restricting Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to 193-6. With this, RCB have booked a place in Qualifier 2 and they will look to topple the RR franchise, against whom they have had a good record in the last few seasons. RR, on the other hand, ended at the second spot in the league stage and went on to lose to Gujarat in Qualifier 1, at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. While RR have relied on five bowlers, they may have to find a way to curtail the run-flow in the death overs. For now, RCB's batting depth and death-over specialists bowlers might give them an edge ahead of the marquee clash. ALSO READ | RCBvsLSG: Kolkata cop turns John Cena to force out intruder, leaves Virat Kohli in disbelief - WATCH Match prediction for RCB vs RR clash: The pitch and overall conditions are expected to be a lot different than what it was in Kolkata. It is more about dry heat than humidity in Ahmedabad when compared to Kolkata. The ground has six red soil pitches and five black soil pitches, hence, the nature of the pitch could come down to the characteristics of the soil. In the past, the curator has left a covering of grass for a T20 game. Nonetheless, expect a pitch with more even bounce for Qualifier 2. Anything around 155-160 can be a winning total. Batting first team to win?

RCB vs RR, IPL 2022 Qualifier 2 prediction today: Who will win Bengaluru vs Rajasthan match?

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) bowed out of the IPL 2021 edition after losing the Qualifier 2 to Eoin Morgan's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. After being asked to bat first, Pant &amp; Co. only managed a modest 135-5. In reply, KKR were oncourse for an easy win, courtesy Venkatesh Iyer's brisk half-century, and&nbsp;well-placed at 123-1 in 15.5 overs before they managed to somehow emerge on top on the penultimate ball, with three wickets to spare.

DC's wily off-spinner Ashwin conceded 27 runs and accounted for 2 wickets, both in the final over, in 3.5 overs but couldn't prevent KKR from winning the game. However, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar isn't impressed with a veteran and experienced bowler like Ashwin. Manjrekar feels Ashwin didn't look threatening and bowled defensively in his first three overs; letting KKR run away with the game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-never-have-r-ashwin-in-my-t20-team-sanjay-manjrekars-bold-claim-after-dc-lose-qualifier-2-to-kkr-420627">Would never have R Ashwin in my T20 team: Sanjay Manjrekar's BOLD claim after DC lose Qualifier 2 to KKR</a>

'Ashwin was in his own bubble'

"We have seen Ashwin in T20 cricket in the past five years. When he plays T20 cricket, he plays as a finger spinner who relies on carrom balls. When he played for Chennai, he was brilliant. But against Kolkata, he looked ineffective on the wicket and did not seem as a wicket-taking bowler," Manjrekar said on India TV.&nbsp;

"Delhi needed wickets but Ashwin was just thinking of not conceding runs. Axar, on the other hand, was looking out for wickets. Ashwin was in his own bubble during Kolkata's run-chase. The second Qualifier between DC and KKR frustrated me a lot. Both teams have some dead weight and even Chennai has such players.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-final-record-alert-ms-dhoni-set-to-become-first-captain-to-lead-in-300-t20s-420934">CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final: RECORD ALERT! MS Dhoni set to become first captain to lead in 300 T20s</a>

Ashwin will now shift his focus towards the T20 World Cup as the 34-year-old is part of India's squad for the mega event. Virat Kohli-led India will open their campaign versus Pakistan, on October 24, and are placed in Pool B, along with Men in Green, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams, who are set to join from the qualifiers.

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) bowed out of the IPL 2021 edition after losing the Qualifier 2 to Eoin Morgan's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) bowed out of the IPL 2021 edition after losing the Qualifier 2 to Eoin Morgan's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. After being asked to bat first, Pant & Co. only managed a modest 135-5. In reply, KKR were oncourse for an easy win, courtesy Venkatesh Iyer's brisk half-century, and well-placed at 123-1 in 15.5 overs before they managed to somehow emerge on top on the penultimate ball, with three wickets to spare. DC's wily off-spinner Ashwin conceded 27 runs and accounted for 2 wickets, both in the final over, in 3.5 overs but couldn't prevent KKR from winning the game. However, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar isn't impressed with a veteran and experienced bowler like Ashwin. Manjrekar feels Ashwin didn't look threatening and bowled defensively in his first three overs; letting KKR run away with the game. ALSO READ | Would never have R Ashwin in my T20 team: Sanjay Manjrekar's BOLD claim after DC lose Qualifier 2 to KKR 'Ashwin was in his own bubble' "We have seen Ashwin in T20 cricket in the past five years. When he plays T20 cricket, he plays as a finger spinner who relies on carrom balls. When he played for Chennai, he was brilliant. But against Kolkata, he looked ineffective on the wicket and did not seem as a wicket-taking bowler," Manjrekar said on India TV. "Delhi needed wickets but Ashwin was just thinking of not conceding runs. Axar, on the other hand, was looking out for wickets. Ashwin was in his own bubble during Kolkata's run-chase. The second Qualifier between DC and KKR frustrated me a lot. Both teams have some dead weight and even Chennai has such players. ALSO READ | CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final: RECORD ALERT! MS Dhoni set to become first captain to lead in 300 T20s Ashwin will now shift his focus towards the T20 World Cup as the 34-year-old is part of India's squad for the mega event. Virat Kohli-led India will open their campaign versus Pakistan, on October 24, and are placed in Pool B, along with Men in Green, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams, who are set to join from the qualifiers.

'He was in his own bubble during KKR's run-chase' - Sanjay Manjrekar takes a dig at R Ashwin after DC's exit

Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Wednesday evening (October 13). The winner of the clash will take on the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the season-finale, on October 15 (Friday) at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;

The journey of DC and KKR has been very different from each other. While the DC camp remained consistent in the second and final leg, after a fitting start in the India leg in April-May, they became the second team to qualify for the playoffs but have now lost two back-to-back close encounters. Nonetheless, they are still fortunate to get another opportunity to enter the final. Will they make the most of it?

Meanwhile, KKR had a torrid time in the first leg, with only two wins from seven encounters. In the UAE leg, they have been the most improved sides as they attained the fourth spot and also beat Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who finished a spot above them in the league stage, in the Eliminator to setup another clash with DC this season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dc-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-qualifier-2-prediction-who-will-win-delhi-capitals-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-420223">DC vs KKR, IPL 2021 Qualifier 2 prediction: Who will win Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match?</a>

Head-to-head record

KKR lead DC 15-12 in head-to-head tally. They have also beaten DC at this venue, in their last face-off during the final leg, and remain unbeaten&nbsp;at Sharjah after three encounters (winning while defending as well as chasing totals) this season.

Stats

KKR's highest total at Sharjah is 171 for 4 (versus Rajasthan Royals) whereas DC have struggled with the bat on the tricky surfaces on offer in Sharjah. Their highest total is 132-6, which came versus Mumbai Indians (MI) in a winning cause.

Trivia

KKR hit seven sixes as compared to DC's zero when both sides locked horns in their&nbsp;previous face-off at Sharjah; mostly known for R Ashwin-Morgan's heated exchange.

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Squads:

Delhi Capitals:&nbsp;Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Axar Patel, Shimron Hetmyer, Tom Curran, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje, Ishant Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Amit Mishra, Umesh Yadav, Steven Smith, Sam Billings, Marcus Stoinis, Lukman Meriwala, Ben Dwarshuis, Praveen Dubey, Vishnu Vinod, Kulwant Khejroliya, Lalit Yadav, Ripal Patel

Kolkata Knight Riders:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Venkatesh Iyer, Rahul Tripathi, Nitish Rana, Sunil Narine, Dinesh Karthik(w), Eoin Morgan(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Lockie Ferguson, Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Harbhajan Singh, Tim Southee, Andre Russell, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Pawan Negi, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Sheldon Jackson, Sandeep Warrier, Tim Seifert, Prasidh Krishna, Rinku Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Vaibhav Arora

Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Wednesday evening (October 13).

Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Wednesday evening (October 13). The winner of the clash will take on the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the season-finale, on October 15 (Friday) at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. The journey of DC and KKR has been very different from each other. While the DC camp remained consistent in the second and final leg, after a fitting start in the India leg in April-May, they became the second team to qualify for the playoffs but have now lost two back-to-back close encounters. Nonetheless, they are still fortunate to get another opportunity to enter the final. Will they make the most of it? Meanwhile, KKR had a torrid time in the first leg, with only two wins from seven encounters. In the UAE leg, they have been the most improved sides as they attained the fourth spot and also beat Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who finished a spot above them in the league stage, in the Eliminator to setup another clash with DC this season. ALSO READ | DC vs KKR, IPL 2021 Qualifier 2 prediction: Who will win Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match? Head-to-head record KKR lead DC 15-12 in head-to-head tally. They have also beaten DC at this venue, in their last face-off during the final leg, and remain unbeaten at Sharjah after three encounters (winning while defending as well as chasing totals) this season. Stats KKR's highest total at Sharjah is 171 for 4 (versus Rajasthan Royals) whereas DC have struggled with the bat on the tricky surfaces on offer in Sharjah. Their highest total is 132-6, which came versus Mumbai Indians (MI) in a winning cause. Trivia KKR hit seven sixes as compared to DC's zero when both sides locked horns in their previous face-off at Sharjah; mostly known for R Ashwin-Morgan's heated exchange. ALSO READ | Venkatesh Iyer likely to stay as cover, Avesh Khan to join team India as net bowler ahead of T20 World Cup Squads: Delhi Capitals: Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Axar Patel, Shimron Hetmyer, Tom Curran, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje, Ishant Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Amit Mishra, Umesh Yadav, Steven Smith, Sam Billings, Marcus Stoinis, Lukman Meriwala, Ben Dwarshuis, Praveen Dubey, Vishnu Vinod, Kulwant Khejroliya, Lalit Yadav, Ripal Patel Kolkata Knight Riders: Shubman Gill, Venkatesh Iyer, Rahul Tripathi, Nitish Rana, Sunil Narine, Dinesh Karthik(w), Eoin Morgan(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Lockie Ferguson, Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Harbhajan Singh, Tim Southee, Andre Russell, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Pawan Negi, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Sheldon Jackson, Sandeep Warrier, Tim Seifert, Prasidh Krishna, Rinku Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Vaibhav Arora

IPL 2021: KKR vs DC Qualifier 2 - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

Delhi Capitals (DC) will face the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition, at Sharjah, on Wednesday (October 13) to book a place in the tournament-finale, where MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already confirmed their spot.&nbsp;

DC came into the playoffs as the tournament-favourites and had the edge over CSK in Qualifier 1. However, they lost to the Yellow Army by four wickets, in the last over, and will now get another chance to make it to their second successive IPL final. Meanwhile, KKR will be proud of their turnaround, who started the UAE leg with only two wins from seven games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ms-dhoni-retires-he-will-be-remembered-as-one-of-the-greatest-finishers-ever-ricky-ponting-419942">When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting</a>

Nonetheless, Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. have moved past all oppositions and will now look to beat DC for the second time in a row to face CSK in the final. Their revamp, in the UAE leg, has been extraordinary as they have now become the most dangerous side in the ongoing season. DC won't have it easy versus the rampant KKR line-up on Wednesday evening.

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Match prediction for DC vs KKR clash: DC and KKR have faced each other in this venue in their last face-off. DC lost to KKR by three wickets and feel will the heat as their ability to not close two back-to-back close games have brought them to Qualifier 2. Moreover, KKR have won all their games at Sharjah and will have a certain edge over DC. While low-scoring encounters have been the norm in this venue this season, the pitch can produce a 150-155-plus total as well.&nbsp;

Chasing side is likely to win. KKR to beat DC and enter the final?

Delhi Capitals (DC) will face the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition, at Sharjah, on Wednesday (October 13) to book a place in the tournament-finale, where MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already confirmed their spot.

Delhi Capitals (DC) will face the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition, at Sharjah, on Wednesday (October 13) to book a place in the tournament-finale, where MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already confirmed their spot. DC came into the playoffs as the tournament-favourites and had the edge over CSK in Qualifier 1. However, they lost to the Yellow Army by four wickets, in the last over, and will now get another chance to make it to their second successive IPL final. Meanwhile, KKR will be proud of their turnaround, who started the UAE leg with only two wins from seven games. ALSO READ | When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting Nonetheless, Eoin Morgan & Co. have moved past all oppositions and will now look to beat DC for the second time in a row to face CSK in the final. Their revamp, in the UAE leg, has been extraordinary as they have now become the most dangerous side in the ongoing season. DC won't have it easy versus the rampant KKR line-up on Wednesday evening. ALSO READ | 'Thank you for showing us the true meaning of Play Bold' - RCB pay rich tribute to Virat Kohli Match prediction for DC vs KKR clash: DC and KKR have faced each other in this venue in their last face-off. DC lost to KKR by three wickets and feel will the heat as their ability to not close two back-to-back close games have brought them to Qualifier 2. Moreover, KKR have won all their games at Sharjah and will have a certain edge over DC. While low-scoring encounters have been the norm in this venue this season, the pitch can produce a 150-155-plus total as well. Chasing side is likely to win. KKR to beat DC and enter the final?

DC vs KKR, IPL 2021 Qualifier 2 prediction: Who will win Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match?

Delhi Capitals' (DC) pacer Avesh Khan has had a breakthrough season in IPL 2021, being the second-highest wicket-taker overall with 23 scalps in 15 games. Avesh has dismissed some of the greats of the game, such as MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, etc.

For the unversed, Avesh got rid of Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) captain Dhoni twice during the league stage encounters when DC locked horns with the Yellow Army. The Delhi speedster's extra pace and bounce troubled Dhoni as he dismissed him twice and made heads turn. In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Avesh has now revealed how DC captain Rishabh Pant plotted the dismissal of Dhoni on both the occasions.

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“When Mahi bhai walked in, Rishabh told me to bring in the mid-on and mid-off. He said if he [Dhoni] hits you over them, that is fine, but don't pitch fuller, bowl your length. At first I disagreed with him and asked him not to bring in five fielders and leave only four inside [the 30-yard circle], but he insisted. So I did that and the second ball, he [Dhoni] attempted to hit over when he saw both fielders [mid-on and mid-off] inside the circle. He had not played for a while, and Rishabh took advantage of that and we got the wicket,” Avesh said.

Speaking on the second instance when he got rid of Dhoni, Avesh added, "Once again I had a chat with Rishabh. Basically, he said to pitch a hard length and let him [Dhoni] hit from there because it is tough to do that. And that is what I did and he edged."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dc-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-qualifier-2-prediction-who-will-win-delhi-capitals-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-match-420223">DC vs KKR, IPL 2021 Qualifier 2 prediction: Who will win Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match?</a>

However, Avesh couldn't dismiss Dhoni for cheap when CSK and DC locked horns for the third time in IPL 14; during the Qualifier 1 on Sunday (October 10). Coming out to bat in the penultimate over of the contest, with CSK needing 19 off 9 balls to chase down 172, Dhoni missed two deliveries off Avesh but smacked him for a six before finishing things off in style in the final over.&nbsp;

Pant-led DC will now face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 2, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, on Wednesday evening (October 13) for a final in the place. Avesh, meanwhile, will hope to take DC to their second successive IPL final and get another chance to dismiss Dhoni.

Delhi Capitals' (DC) pacer Avesh Khan has had a breakthrough season in IPL 2021, being the second-highest wicket-taker overall with 23 scalps in 15 games. Avesh has dismissed some of the greats of the game, such as MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, etc.

Delhi Capitals' (DC) pacer Avesh Khan has had a breakthrough season in IPL 2021, being the second-highest wicket-taker overall with 23 scalps in 15 games. Avesh has dismissed some of the greats of the game, such as MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, etc. For the unversed, Avesh got rid of Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) captain Dhoni twice during the league stage encounters when DC locked horns with the Yellow Army. The Delhi speedster's extra pace and bounce troubled Dhoni as he dismissed him twice and made heads turn. In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Avesh has now revealed how DC captain Rishabh Pant plotted the dismissal of Dhoni on both the occasions. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: KKR vs DC Qualifier 2 - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads “When Mahi bhai walked in, Rishabh told me to bring in the mid-on and mid-off. He said if he [Dhoni] hits you over them, that is fine, but don't pitch fuller, bowl your length. At first I disagreed with him and asked him not to bring in five fielders and leave only four inside [the 30-yard circle], but he insisted. So I did that and the second ball, he [Dhoni] attempted to hit over when he saw both fielders [mid-on and mid-off] inside the circle. He had not played for a while, and Rishabh took advantage of that and we got the wicket,” Avesh said. Speaking on the second instance when he got rid of Dhoni, Avesh added, "Once again I had a chat with Rishabh. Basically, he said to pitch a hard length and let him [Dhoni] hit from there because it is tough to do that. And that is what I did and he edged." ALSO READ | DC vs KKR, IPL 2021 Qualifier 2 prediction: Who will win Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders match? However, Avesh couldn't dismiss Dhoni for cheap when CSK and DC locked horns for the third time in IPL 14; during the Qualifier 1 on Sunday (October 10). Coming out to bat in the penultimate over of the contest, with CSK needing 19 off 9 balls to chase down 172, Dhoni missed two deliveries off Avesh but smacked him for a six before finishing things off in style in the final over. Pant-led DC will now face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 2, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, on Wednesday evening (October 13) for a final in the place. Avesh, meanwhile, will hope to take DC to their second successive IPL final and get another chance to dismiss Dhoni.

DC pacer Avesh Khan spills the beans on how Rishabh Pant helped him in dismissing MS Dhoni twice

Riding high on confidence, Delhi will aim to make it to their first IPL final when they take on Chennai in Qualifier 2 of the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium.

IPL 2019, Qualifier 2: Delhi to fight for final berth against Chennai

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