<p>There was drama, there was thrill and emotions peaked in the final over as India and Pakistan played out an absolute nail-biter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener on Sunday. Virat Kohli produced yet another chasing masterclass as India clinched the last-ball thriller by four wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament.</p>

<p>Kohli was the main architect of India's famous victory as he played one of the best knocks of his career so far. Kohli was just 11 off 20 balls when India were reeling in a spot of bother having lost as many as four wickets with just 31 runs on the board in the tricky chase of 160 runs.</p>

<p>However, the king proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest of all time by taking India home in a sensational manner. Kohli ended up scoring as many as 71 runs off his next 33 balls to keep India in the hunt till the end and help them pull off an improbable victory in the high-pressure chase.</p>

<p>Kohli began the real onslaught in the 18th over where he took Shaheen Afridi to the cleaners with three fours before smashing Haris Rauf for back-t-back sixes in the penultimate over to bring the equation down to 16 required off the last over. However, what unfolded in the final over kept the fans and the players on the edge as India secured a dramatic win on the last ball.</p>

<p>With 16 to get, Hardik was sent back by Mohammad Nawaz on the first ball as he miscued his shot and was caught by Babar Azam. Dinesh Karthik, who is India's designated finisher in the tournament, arrived in the middle with a perfect situation for him to shine and prove his critics wrong.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-virat-kohli-breaks-into-tears-after-his-scintillating-show-against-pakistan-watch-527825">Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch</a></p>

<p>However, Karthik could only manage a single off the next ball before Kohli converted a single into two on the third delivery to reduce the equation to 13 needed off the last three balls. Kohli smacked a high full-toss from Nawaz for a huge six next and luck favoured India as it turned out to be a waist-height no-ball.</p>

<p>With the equation now down to 6 needed off the final three deliveries, Kohli was clean-bowled on the free-hit delivery. However, India managed to sneak three runs in byes to leave two to get off the last two balls. Just when it seemed, India had it in their bag after pulling off the unthinkable on the first four balls, Karthik was stumped by Rizwan on the penultimate delivery as more drama unfolded at the SCG.</p>

<p>R Ashwin arrived in the middle with India needing two off the last ball with Pakistan once again favourites. However, Nawaz ended up bowling a wide ball under pressure and Ashwin did well to leave it and tie the scores.</p>

<p>With millions around the globe glued to their TV screens and the spotlight on Ashwin, he nonchalantly lofted the final delivery for a single to wrap up a thrilling victory for India after a nerve-wracking last over. Following the winning run, a pumped-up Kohli punched the ground after letting his emotions flow and was later lifted and hugged by his teammates.</p>

<p><strong>Relive the epic last over between India and Pakistan here:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-best-innings-for-india-rohit-sharma-lauds-virat-kohli-after-his-match-winning-82-against-pakistan-527806">His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan</a></p>

<p>While Kohli rated his unbeaten 82 as the best knock of his career so far, India pulled off their highest successful run-chase against Pakistan in a T20I game. He helped India score 48 runs in the final three overs, which is the joint-most by any team in a run-chase in a T20 World Cup game.</p>

<p>With his knock, Kohli also went past Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-getter in T20Is and will be hoping to continue his purple patch when India take on Netherlands in their next Super 12 clash on Thursday (October 27).</p>


There was drama, there was thrill and emotions peaked in the final over as India and Pakistan played out an absolute nail-biter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener on Sunday.

There was drama, there was thrill and emotions peaked in the final over as India and Pakistan played out an absolute nail-biter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in their T20 World Cup 2022 opener on Sunday. Virat Kohli produced yet another chasing masterclass as India clinched the last-ball thriller by four wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament. Kohli was the main architect of India's famous victory as he played one of the best knocks of his career so far. Kohli was just 11 off 20 balls when India were reeling in a spot of bother having lost as many as four wickets with just 31 runs on the board in the tricky chase of 160 runs. However, the king proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest of all time by taking India home in a sensational manner. Kohli ended up scoring as many as 71 runs off his next 33 balls to keep India in the hunt till the end and help them pull off an improbable victory in the high-pressure chase. Kohli began the real onslaught in the 18th over where he took Shaheen Afridi to the cleaners with three fours before smashing Haris Rauf for back-t-back sixes in the penultimate over to bring the equation down to 16 required off the last over. However, what unfolded in the final over kept the fans and the players on the edge as India secured a dramatic win on the last ball. With 16 to get, Hardik was sent back by Mohammad Nawaz on the first ball as he miscued his shot and was caught by Babar Azam. Dinesh Karthik, who is India's designated finisher in the tournament, arrived in the middle with a perfect situation for him to shine and prove his critics wrong. Also Read: Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch However, Karthik could only manage a single off the next ball before Kohli converted a single into two on the third delivery to reduce the equation to 13 needed off the last three balls. Kohli smacked a high full-toss from Nawaz for a huge six next and luck favoured India as it turned out to be a waist-height no-ball. With the equation now down to 6 needed off the final three deliveries, Kohli was clean-bowled on the free-hit delivery. However, India managed to sneak three runs in byes to leave two to get off the last two balls. Just when it seemed, India had it in their bag after pulling off the unthinkable on the first four balls, Karthik was stumped by Rizwan on the penultimate delivery as more drama unfolded at the SCG. R Ashwin arrived in the middle with India needing two off the last ball with Pakistan once again favourites. However, Nawaz ended up bowling a wide ball under pressure and Ashwin did well to leave it and tie the scores. With millions around the globe glued to their TV screens and the spotlight on Ashwin, he nonchalantly lofted the final delivery for a single to wrap up a thrilling victory for India after a nerve-wracking last over. Following the winning run, a pumped-up Kohli punched the ground after letting his emotions flow and was later lifted and hugged by his teammates. Relive the epic last over between India and Pakistan here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Also Read: His best innings: Rohit Sharma lauds Virat Kohli after his match-winning 82 against Pakistan While Kohli rated his unbeaten 82 as the best knock of his career so far, India pulled off their highest successful run-chase against Pakistan in a T20I game. He helped India score 48 runs in the final three overs, which is the joint-most by any team in a run-chase in a T20 World Cup game. With his knock, Kohli also went past Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-getter in T20Is and will be hoping to continue his purple patch when India take on Netherlands in their next Super 12 clash on Thursday (October 27).

Thrill, drama and emotions: Relive nerve-wracking last over between India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup

<p>Indian spinner R Ashwin has had a memorable 2021 as he looks set to finish the year as the highest wicket-taker in Tests. While he was among the wicket, Ashwin also made his comeback in India's T20I side after a gap of over three years as he found a spot in the squad for T20 World Cup 2021. The senior spinner was also part of several memorable wins for the Indian team throughout the year.</p>

<p>He played an instrumental role in some of India's top wins this year but one of his best performances came during the Sydney Test against Australia which had ended in a draw. Ashwin battled immense pain as he was struggling with a severe back spasm, to deliver a performance for the ages and set an example for others.</p>

<p>Ashwin had combined with Hanuma Vihari to script a stunning draw for India in the Test match. The duo stitched an unbeaten stand of 62 runs for the seventh wicket and played a staggering 289 deliveries between them to deny Australia a victory in the game.</p>

<p>Not many know, Ashwin was dealing with a severe back injury and was in terrible pain while batting during India's second innings to save the Test match. The spinner revealed he was&nbsp;wincing in lower-back pain after an injury during practice but bowled 14 overs at a stretch on Day 4 before producing a gritty batting display on Day 5.</p>

<p>"It [back spasm] was very freakish. I was wincing in lower-back pain after I had hurt myself during practice. Nitin [the physio] gave my heavy painkillers on Day 4 and I kept bowling," Ashwin said on the show - <em>Backstage with Boria</em>.</p>

<p>"I bowled two overs at Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, which took me to cross the pain barrier – I got used to the pain. I told Ajinkya Rahane [India’s stand-in captain] and Rohit Sharma that if you stop me, I won’t be able to bowl again. So, I went on [to bowl at a stretch] for 14 overs," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gaikwad-iyer-in-fray-r-ashwin-likely-to-return-in-indias-odi-squad-for-south-africa-series-report-440037">Gaikwad, Iyer in fray; R Ashwin likely to return in India's ODI squad for South Africa series - Report</a></p>

<h2><strong>It was the worst night of my life: R Ashwin</strong></h2>

<p>On the night after bowling despite dealing with severe back pain, Ashwin said he endured the worst night of his life. The spinner revealed he couldn't put his back down when he tried to lie down after dinner and was not able to get up the next morning.</p>

<p>The spinner said his daughter held his shorts and pulled up his shorts for him while he was tearing up in pain to get ready to bat on Day 5 of the Test match. Nonetheless, he went on to bat and scored an unbeaten 39 off 128 balls to save the Test match for India.</p>

<p>“Australia declared later and I went back, but little did I know that I would have the worst night of my life. When I went after dinner to lie down, my back did not go down.</p>

<p>"I put a towel underneath my back, held my hip up and went to sleep. The next morning when I woke up, my mind was telling me to get up but I couldn’t. I was shouting and yelling; the children helped me get up, but I couldn’t," Ashwin recalled.</p>

<p>"I crawled outside the door and kept yelling for the physio. I went into a hot shower, so that’s when my back started warming up. I don’t know how I went to the game. My daughter held my shorts – she just pushed the shorts up, and as she pushed up my shorts, I was tearing up. My wife asked, ‘You are going to play a game?’. I said: ‘I have to’," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rishabh-pant-former-head-coach-ravi-shastri-names-2-players-who-can-captain-team-india-in-future-439901">Former head coach Ravi Shastri names 2 players who can captain Team India in future</a></p>

<p>India went on to pull off a draw in the Sydney Test to head into the decider at the Gabba with series at 1-1. India ended Australia's dominance at their fortress Gabba with a 3-wicket win. The Ajinkya Rahane-led side became the first team to beat Australia at The Gabba in 32 years as India clinched the series 2-1.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian spinner R Ashwin has had a memorable 2021 as he looks set to finish the year as the highest wicket-taker in Tests. While he was among the wicket, Ashwin also made his comeback in India's T20I side after a gap of over three years as he found a spot in the squad for T20 World Cup 2021.

Indian spinner R Ashwin has had a memorable 2021 as he looks set to finish the year as the highest wicket-taker in Tests. While he was among the wicket, Ashwin also made his comeback in India's T20I side after a gap of over three years as he found a spot in the squad for T20 World Cup 2021. The senior spinner was also part of several memorable wins for the Indian team throughout the year. He played an instrumental role in some of India's top wins this year but one of his best performances came during the Sydney Test against Australia which had ended in a draw. Ashwin battled immense pain as he was struggling with a severe back spasm, to deliver a performance for the ages and set an example for others. Ashwin had combined with Hanuma Vihari to script a stunning draw for India in the Test match. The duo stitched an unbeaten stand of 62 runs for the seventh wicket and played a staggering 289 deliveries between them to deny Australia a victory in the game. Not many know, Ashwin was dealing with a severe back injury and was in terrible pain while batting during India's second innings to save the Test match. The spinner revealed he was wincing in lower-back pain after an injury during practice but bowled 14 overs at a stretch on Day 4 before producing a gritty batting display on Day 5. "It [back spasm] was very freakish. I was wincing in lower-back pain after I had hurt myself during practice. Nitin [the physio] gave my heavy painkillers on Day 4 and I kept bowling," Ashwin said on the show - Backstage with Boria. "I bowled two overs at Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, which took me to cross the pain barrier – I got used to the pain. I told Ajinkya Rahane [India’s stand-in captain] and Rohit Sharma that if you stop me, I won’t be able to bowl again. So, I went on [to bowl at a stretch] for 14 overs," he added. Also Read: Gaikwad, Iyer in fray; R Ashwin likely to return in India's ODI squad for South Africa series - Report It was the worst night of my life: R Ashwin On the night after bowling despite dealing with severe back pain, Ashwin said he endured the worst night of his life. The spinner revealed he couldn't put his back down when he tried to lie down after dinner and was not able to get up the next morning. The spinner said his daughter held his shorts and pulled up his shorts for him while he was tearing up in pain to get ready to bat on Day 5 of the Test match. Nonetheless, he went on to bat and scored an unbeaten 39 off 128 balls to save the Test match for India. “Australia declared later and I went back, but little did I know that I would have the worst night of my life. When I went after dinner to lie down, my back did not go down. "I put a towel underneath my back, held my hip up and went to sleep. The next morning when I woke up, my mind was telling me to get up but I couldn’t. I was shouting and yelling; the children helped me get up, but I couldn’t," Ashwin recalled. "I crawled outside the door and kept yelling for the physio. I went into a hot shower, so that’s when my back started warming up. I don’t know how I went to the game. My daughter held my shorts – she just pushed the shorts up, and as she pushed up my shorts, I was tearing up. My wife asked, ‘You are going to play a game?’. I said: ‘I have to’," he added. Also Read: Former head coach Ravi Shastri names 2 players who can captain Team India in future India went on to pull off a draw in the Sydney Test to head into the decider at the Gabba with series at 1-1. India ended Australia's dominance at their fortress Gabba with a 3-wicket win. The Ajinkya Rahane-led side became the first team to beat Australia at The Gabba in 32 years as India clinched the series 2-1.

R Ashwin recalls battle with pain in Sydney Test: I was tearing up, my daughter had to pull up my shorts

<p>Indian spinner R Ashwin had a brain fade moment in the middle of the pitch while batting during India's first innings on Day 2 of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand on Saturday. Ashwin ended up going for a review after being bowled as many were left baffled by the spinner's decision. The incident happened on the penultimate delivery pf the second over on Day 2 of the Mumbai Test.</p>

<p>Spinner Ajaz Patel, who has been bowling brilliantly, had picked up the wicket of Wriddhiman Saha on the previous delivery and cleaned up Ashwin on the next ball. It was a slower one from Patel which drifted inside and beat Ashwin's defence to crash into the stumps.</p>

<p>However, Ashwin probably thought the New Zealand players were celebrating a stump out decision and ended up signalling for DRS to everyone's surprise. Ashwin's brain-fade moment soon became a talking point on Twitter with many trolling the Indian spinner for his decision to go for the DRS while ignoring that he had been bowled.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ashwin taking review of bowled dismissal🤣🤣🤣🤣<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/dXGOe09Okn">pic.twitter.com/dXGOe09Okn</a></p>
— Smama Watto (@SmamaWatto) <a href="https://twitter.com/SmamaWatto/status/1467014450100285443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former Australian cricketer Brad Hogg took a dig at Ashwin for his unnecessary review and shared a meme with the caption - "Ashwin reviews being bowled?????". In another tweet, Hogg slandered the Indian spinner for wasting a review for Team India in the Test match and stated that a batter should consult his partner at the non-striker's end before opting for a review.</p>

<p>"Surely India lose a review with Ashwin reviewing being bowled. If your unsure of why your out you consult your partner not be given a hint by the umpire," said Hogg.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ashwin reviews being bowled????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvzNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvzNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/LmObs6G57S">pic.twitter.com/LmObs6G57S</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Surely India lose a review with Ashwin reviewing being bowled. If your unsure of why your out you consult your partner not be given a hint by the umpire. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvzNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvzNZ</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsnz-2nd-test-mayank-agarwal-reveals-how-legendary-cricketer-sunil-gavaskars-advice-helped-him-433984">Mayank Agarwal reveals how legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar's advice helped him</a></p>

<p>Talking about India's first innings, the hosts lost the wickets of Saha (27) and Ashwin (0) in quick succession in the first session on Day 2 of the Test match. Mayank Agarwal, who was unbeaten on 120 at stumps on Day 1, added 30 runs to his tally before being dismissed on 150 by Patel, who picked up his seventh wicket.</p>

<p>Agarwal added 67 runs for the seventh wicket with Axar Patel, who is currently nearing his half-century. India have already crossed the 300-run mark and are in a strong position in the Test match.</p>

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Indian spinner R Ashwin had a brain fade moment in the middle of the pitch while batting during India's first innings on Day 2 of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand on Saturday.

Indian spinner R Ashwin had a brain fade moment in the middle of the pitch while batting during India's first innings on Day 2 of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand on Saturday. Ashwin ended up going for a review after being bowled as many were left baffled by the spinner's decision. The incident happened on the penultimate delivery pf the second over on Day 2 of the Mumbai Test. Spinner Ajaz Patel, who has been bowling brilliantly, had picked up the wicket of Wriddhiman Saha on the previous delivery and cleaned up Ashwin on the next ball. It was a slower one from Patel which drifted inside and beat Ashwin's defence to crash into the stumps. However, Ashwin probably thought the New Zealand players were celebrating a stump out decision and ended up signalling for DRS to everyone's surprise. Ashwin's brain-fade moment soon became a talking point on Twitter with many trolling the Indian spinner for his decision to go for the DRS while ignoring that he had been bowled. Watch video: Ashwin taking review of bowled dismissal🤣🤣🤣🤣#INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/dXGOe09Okn — Smama Watto (@SmamaWatto) December 4, 2021 × Former Australian cricketer Brad Hogg took a dig at Ashwin for his unnecessary review and shared a meme with the caption - "Ashwin reviews being bowled?????". In another tweet, Hogg slandered the Indian spinner for wasting a review for Team India in the Test match and stated that a batter should consult his partner at the non-striker's end before opting for a review. "Surely India lose a review with Ashwin reviewing being bowled. If your unsure of why your out you consult your partner not be given a hint by the umpire," said Hogg. Ashwin reviews being bowled????? #INDvzNZ pic.twitter.com/LmObs6G57S — Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) December 4, 2021 × Surely India lose a review with Ashwin reviewing being bowled. If your unsure of why your out you consult your partner not be given a hint by the umpire. #INDvzNZ — Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) December 4, 2021 × Also Read: Mayank Agarwal reveals how legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar's advice helped him Talking about India's first innings, the hosts lost the wickets of Saha (27) and Ashwin (0) in quick succession in the first session on Day 2 of the Test match. Mayank Agarwal, who was unbeaten on 120 at stumps on Day 1, added 30 runs to his tally before being dismissed on 150 by Patel, who picked up his seventh wicket. Agarwal added 67 runs for the seventh wicket with Axar Patel, who is currently nearing his half-century. India have already crossed the 300-run mark and are in a strong position in the Test match.

WATCH: R Ashwin signals for DRS after getting bowled, gets trolled by former Australian cricketer

<p>There's never a dull moment when Rishabh Pant is standing behind the stumps, whether for Team India or the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. After taking DC to the playoffs in IPL 2021, the swashbuckling left-hander resumed his services as a wicketkeeper-batsman for Virat Kohli-led India in their first warm-up encounter, versus England, in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE, on Monday evening (October 18).</p>

<p>As expected, Pant left everyone in splits with his commentary from behind the stumps. When R Ashwin came onto bowl the 11th over of England's innings, after India opted to bowl first at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai, Pant hilariously asked the wily off-spinner to resort to leg-spin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 24-year-old Pant suggested Ashwin, "<em>Armaan pura karne ka yahi mauka hai</em>.&nbsp;<em>Leg spin karne ka Mauka bhi hai, dastoor bhi hai&nbsp;</em>(This is your chance to fulfil your desire of bowling leg spin). Pant's hilarious video soon became the talk of the town and&nbsp;went viral on social media. <strong>Here's what he said:</strong></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-salman-butt-suggests-ishan-kishans-batting-slot-ahttps://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-salman-butt-suggests-ishan-kishans-batting-slot-after-his-blitzkrieg-vs-england-ahead-of-pakistan-tie-422090fter-his-blitzkrieg-vs-england-ahead-of-pakistan-tie-422090"><strong>T20 WC: Salman Butt suggests Ishan Kishan's batting slot after his blitzkrieg vs England ahead of Pakistan tie</strong></a></p>

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— pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) <a href="https://twitter.com/pant_fc/status/1450127670721744903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-pakistani-internet-sensation-returns-with-a-hilarious-video-as-indo-pak-clash-nears-watch-422058"><strong>T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking about the match, India ticked many boxes in the warm-up encounter with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami being the chief wicket-takers whereas Ashwin returned with an economical spell, 4-0-23-0. England, however, posted a competitive 188-5 riding on Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone's entertaining cameos before Ishan Kishans 46-ball 70 (retired hurt) and KL Rahul's 24-ball 51 propelled the Men in Blue to an easy 7-wicket win, with an over to spare. Pant, on the other hand, also stood tall with a match-finishing 14-ball 29*.</p>

<p>India will take on Australia in the second warm-up encounter before facing Pakistan in their tournament-opener, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai during the main draw of the marquee event.</p>


There's never a dull moment when Rishabh Pant is standing behind the stumps, whether for Team India or the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. After taking DC to the playoffs in IPL 2021, the swashbuckling left-hander resumed his services as a wicketkeeper-batsman for Virat Kohli-led India in their first warm-up encounter, versus England, in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE, on Monday evening (October 18).

There's never a dull moment when Rishabh Pant is standing behind the stumps, whether for Team India or the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. After taking DC to the playoffs in IPL 2021, the swashbuckling left-hander resumed his services as a wicketkeeper-batsman for Virat Kohli-led India in their first warm-up encounter, versus England, in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE, on Monday evening (October 18). As expected, Pant left everyone in splits with his commentary from behind the stumps. When R Ashwin came onto bowl the 11th over of England's innings, after India opted to bowl first at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai, Pant hilariously asked the wily off-spinner to resort to leg-spin. The 24-year-old Pant suggested Ashwin, "Armaan pura karne ka yahi mauka hai. Leg spin karne ka Mauka bhi hai, dastoor bhi hai (This is your chance to fulfil your desire of bowling leg spin). Pant's hilarious video soon became the talk of the town and went viral on social media. Here's what he said: ALSO READ | T20 WC: Salman Butt suggests Ishan Kishan's batting slot after his blitzkrieg vs England ahead of Pakistan tie pic.twitter.com/o3h2jskHKh — pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) October 18, 2021 × ALSO READ | T20 WC: Pakistani internet sensation returns with a hilarious video as Indo-Pak clash nears - WATCH Talking about the match, India ticked many boxes in the warm-up encounter with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami being the chief wicket-takers whereas Ashwin returned with an economical spell, 4-0-23-0. England, however, posted a competitive 188-5 riding on Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone's entertaining cameos before Ishan Kishans 46-ball 70 (retired hurt) and KL Rahul's 24-ball 51 propelled the Men in Blue to an easy 7-wicket win, with an over to spare. Pant, on the other hand, also stood tall with a match-finishing 14-ball 29*. India will take on Australia in the second warm-up encounter before facing Pakistan in their tournament-opener, on October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai during the main draw of the marquee event.

WATCH - 'Fulfill your desire....': Rishabh Pant's hilarious remark to R Ashwin caught on stump-mic

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><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"><strong>Would never have R Ashwin in my T20 team: Sanjay Manjrekar's BOLD claim after DC lose Qualifier 2 to KKR</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>'Ashwin was in his own bubble'</strong></p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><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"><strong>CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final: RECORD ALERT! MS Dhoni set to become first captain to lead in 300 T20s</strong></a></p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) lost to the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, on Wednesday (October 13). Being asked to bat first, the DC franchise managed a modest 135-5 whereas the KKR camp were oncourse for an easy win, well-placed at 123-1 in 15.5 overs, before DC pulled things back only to lose on the penultimate ball of the contest and bow out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As KKR chased down the total in 19.5 overs, with three wickets to spare, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar once again made heads turn with his bold claim on DC spinner R Ashwin. Ashwin had a productive campaign for Delhi in IPL 2020, taking 13 wickets in 15 games, but failed to inspire this time around and ended with only 7 scalps in 13 games (two of them coming in the last over versus KKR).&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Ashwin will be part of Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad, Manjrekar feels he won't take Ashwin in his T20 team.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rishabh-pant-doesnt-have-words-to-express-after-unfortunate-loss-against-kkr-in-qualifier-2-420552"><strong>IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant doesn't 'have words to express' after 'unfortunate' loss against KKR in Qualifier 2</strong></a></p>

<p>"We have spent far too much talking about Ashwin. Ashwin, the T20 bowler, is not a great force in any team. And if you want Ashwin to change, I don't think that's going to happen because he's been like this for the last five-seven years. I can understand us dwelling on Ashwin in Test matches where he's fantastic. Him not playing a single Test match in England was a travesty. But to spend so much time on Ashwin when it comes to IPL and T20 cricket," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.</p>

<p>"I think he has shown us in the last five years that he's bowled exactly the same and I would never have somebody like Ashwin in my team because if I got turning pitches, I would expect people like Varun Chakravarthy or Sunil Narine or [Yuzvendra] Chahal and how they do their job, they get you wickets," he added.</p>

<p>While the wily off-spinner conceded only 27 runs in 3.5 overs versus Kolkata in Qualifier 2, taking two scalps, some experts criticised him for bowling defensively when DC had a small total to defend.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-players-dejected-after-losing-to-kkr-video-of-emotional-prithvi-shaw-goes-viral-420551"><strong>IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral</strong></a></p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if DC retains Ashwin ahead of the mega auction, which will take place later this year. IPL 2022 will see two more teams taking part, hence, the wily off-spinner might find himself enter the auction pool and represent any other franchise. At present, he will shift his focus on contributing for Team India in the forthcoming T20 WC.</p>


Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) lost to the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, on Wednesday (October 13).

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) lost to the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2021 edition, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, on Wednesday (October 13). Being asked to bat first, the DC franchise managed a modest 135-5 whereas the KKR camp were oncourse for an easy win, well-placed at 123-1 in 15.5 overs, before DC pulled things back only to lose on the penultimate ball of the contest and bow out. As KKR chased down the total in 19.5 overs, with three wickets to spare, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar once again made heads turn with his bold claim on DC spinner R Ashwin. Ashwin had a productive campaign for Delhi in IPL 2020, taking 13 wickets in 15 games, but failed to inspire this time around and ended with only 7 scalps in 13 games (two of them coming in the last over versus KKR). While Ashwin will be part of Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad, Manjrekar feels he won't take Ashwin in his T20 team. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant doesn't 'have words to express' after 'unfortunate' loss against KKR in Qualifier 2 "We have spent far too much talking about Ashwin. Ashwin, the T20 bowler, is not a great force in any team. And if you want Ashwin to change, I don't think that's going to happen because he's been like this for the last five-seven years. I can understand us dwelling on Ashwin in Test matches where he's fantastic. Him not playing a single Test match in England was a travesty. But to spend so much time on Ashwin when it comes to IPL and T20 cricket," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. "I think he has shown us in the last five years that he's bowled exactly the same and I would never have somebody like Ashwin in my team because if I got turning pitches, I would expect people like Varun Chakravarthy or Sunil Narine or [Yuzvendra] Chahal and how they do their job, they get you wickets," he added. While the wily off-spinner conceded only 27 runs in 3.5 overs versus Kolkata in Qualifier 2, taking two scalps, some experts criticised him for bowling defensively when DC had a small total to defend. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral It will be interesting to see if DC retains Ashwin ahead of the mega auction, which will take place later this year. IPL 2022 will see two more teams taking part, hence, the wily off-spinner might find himself enter the auction pool and represent any other franchise. At present, he will shift his focus on contributing for Team India in the forthcoming T20 WC.

Would never have R Ashwin in my T20 team: Sanjay Manjrekar's BOLD claim after DC lose Qualifier 2 to KKR

<p>Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) became the second team to confirm a playoffs spot in IPL 2021. On Monday (October 4), the Pant-led DC franchise locked horns with MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, and completed a double over the Yellow Army this season to not only add two more vital points up their sleeves but also confirm a top-two finish in the points table.</p>

<p>Opting to bowl first, Delhi reduced CSK to 62-4 after a promising start by their openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis. However, Anrich Nortje and Axar Patel pulled things back for Delhi as Chennai never recovered from thereon. Riding on Ambati Rayudu's unbeaten 55, CSK posted a modest 136-5 in 20 overs. While Pant &amp; Co. complicated the run-chase for themselves, they finished the proceedings in the final over with 3 wickets in hand.</p>

<p>Assuring themselves of a top-two finish with CSK win, DC players enjoyed some time off before the playoffs begin from next week. The official Twitter handle of the IPL 2020's runners-up shared some pictures of the players relaxing before they square off with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their last game from the league stage. Here are the pictures:</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/august-15-again-ms-dhoni-drops-a-bomb-on-his-ipl-future-says-you-can-bid-me-farewell-in-chennai-418461"><strong>August 15 again? MS Dhoni drops a bomb on his IPL future, says you can bid me farewell in Chennai</strong></a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Off-Day Goals be like Beach Volleyball, Stand-Up Paddling &amp; Unlimited Fun<br />
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| Snapshots from a memorable outing for our DC stars <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SofitelDXBPalm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SofitelDXBPalm</a> <a href="https://t.co/YFbx9ESadL">pic.twitter.com/YFbx9ESadL</a></p>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1445670188905422848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/LKnLz3djkk">pic.twitter.com/LKnLz3djkk</a></p>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1445670319620907009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1445670445177470986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-as-mi-crush-rr-heres-how-mumbai-or-kkr-can-grab-the-4th-spot-in-ipl-2021-playoffs-418570"><strong>EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs</strong></a></p>

<p>Pant &amp; Co. will not like to lose steam in their final group stage encounter and enter the playoffs as the top-ranked side. After missing out on winning their maiden title in IPL 2020, DC will be desperate to clinch the trophy this time around in the second and final leg of IPL 14, in the UAE.</p>


Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) became the second team to confirm a playoffs spot in IPL 2021. On Monday (October 4), the Pant-led DC franchise locked horns with MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, and completed a double over the Yellow Army this season to not only add two more vital points up their sleeves but also confirm a top-two finish in the points table.

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) became the second team to confirm a playoffs spot in IPL 2021. On Monday (October 4), the Pant-led DC franchise locked horns with MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, and completed a double over the Yellow Army this season to not only add two more vital points up their sleeves but also confirm a top-two finish in the points table. Opting to bowl first, Delhi reduced CSK to 62-4 after a promising start by their openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis. However, Anrich Nortje and Axar Patel pulled things back for Delhi as Chennai never recovered from thereon. Riding on Ambati Rayudu's unbeaten 55, CSK posted a modest 136-5 in 20 overs. While Pant & Co. complicated the run-chase for themselves, they finished the proceedings in the final over with 3 wickets in hand. Assuring themselves of a top-two finish with CSK win, DC players enjoyed some time off before the playoffs begin from next week. The official Twitter handle of the IPL 2020's runners-up shared some pictures of the players relaxing before they square off with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their last game from the league stage. Here are the pictures: ALSO READ | August 15 again? MS Dhoni drops a bomb on his IPL future, says you can bid me farewell in Chennai Off-Day Goals be like Beach Volleyball, Stand-Up Paddling & Unlimited Fun | Snapshots from a memorable outing for our DC stars #YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 @SofitelDXBPalm pic.twitter.com/YFbx9ESadL — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 6, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/LKnLz3djkk — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 6, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/iTEyPYu08d — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 6, 2021 × ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs Pant & Co. will not like to lose steam in their final group stage encounter and enter the playoffs as the top-ranked side. After missing out on winning their maiden title in IPL 2020, DC will be desperate to clinch the trophy this time around in the second and final leg of IPL 14, in the UAE.

IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant-led DC enjoy time-off after assuring top-two finish with CSK win

<p>Delhi Capitals (DC) lost to Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 3 wickets during match 41of the second and final leg of IPL 2021, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on September 28 (Tuesday). While the KKR outfit chased down a modest 128 with 10 balls to spare, the match made heads turn due to R Ashwin's heated exchange with KKR skipper Morgan and Tim Southee.</p>

<p>During the last ball of DC's 19th over, Ashwin and Rishabh Pant completed a double when a throw from Rahul Tripathi ricocheted&nbsp;off Pant. Thus, this didn't please Morgan and Southee and the two had an altercation with Ashwin post his dismissal on the final over. As Ashwin and Pant completed an extra run after the ball hit Pant, after taking a single, it also led to 'Spirit of Cricket' talks in the cricketing fraternity where some slammed the DC spinner whereas many supported his act.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-reacts-sharply-after-rumours-of-him-complaining-against-virat-kohli-to-the-bcci-go-viral-417047"><strong>R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli to the BCCI go viral</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier, Ashwin had also shared a series of tweets on the whole incident and has now again reacted to the same on his Youtube channel, ahead of Pant-led DC's game versus Mumbai Indians (MI). "I have to be true to myself. I have the right to decide how I want to play. Others cannot judge me. Spirit of Cricket was established at a time when Amateur and professional Cricket formats weren't decided," said Ashwin.</p>

<p>He added, "This is professional sports now - my point is you decide how you should play, and I will do mine. I don't want to define or defend any rules here. It is just my life. You don't have to live as per the likes of someone else. I have not spoiled or stolen or lied. I am just doing my job."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-punam-raut-walks-off-despite-being-given-not-out-in-pink-ball-test-against-australia-watch-417426"><strong>India's Punam Raut walks off despite being given not-out in Pink-ball Test against Australia - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>Ashwin-starrer DC have, meanwhile, qualified for the IPL 14 playoffs post KKR's defeat to Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Friday (October 1). The Delhi franchise will, however, hope to end in the top-two to get an extra chance to enter the season-finale, on October 15.</p>


Delhi Capitals (DC) lost to Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 3 wickets during match 41of the second and final leg of IPL 2021, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on September 28 (Tuesday).

Delhi Capitals (DC) lost to Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 3 wickets during match 41of the second and final leg of IPL 2021, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on September 28 (Tuesday). While the KKR outfit chased down a modest 128 with 10 balls to spare, the match made heads turn due to R Ashwin's heated exchange with KKR skipper Morgan and Tim Southee. During the last ball of DC's 19th over, Ashwin and Rishabh Pant completed a double when a throw from Rahul Tripathi ricocheted off Pant. Thus, this didn't please Morgan and Southee and the two had an altercation with Ashwin post his dismissal on the final over. As Ashwin and Pant completed an extra run after the ball hit Pant, after taking a single, it also led to 'Spirit of Cricket' talks in the cricketing fraternity where some slammed the DC spinner whereas many supported his act. ALSO READ | R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli to the BCCI go viral Earlier, Ashwin had also shared a series of tweets on the whole incident and has now again reacted to the same on his Youtube channel, ahead of Pant-led DC's game versus Mumbai Indians (MI). "I have to be true to myself. I have the right to decide how I want to play. Others cannot judge me. Spirit of Cricket was established at a time when Amateur and professional Cricket formats weren't decided," said Ashwin. He added, "This is professional sports now - my point is you decide how you should play, and I will do mine. I don't want to define or defend any rules here. It is just my life. You don't have to live as per the likes of someone else. I have not spoiled or stolen or lied. I am just doing my job." ALSO READ | India's Punam Raut walks off despite being given not-out in Pink-ball Test against Australia - WATCH Ashwin-starrer DC have, meanwhile, qualified for the IPL 14 playoffs post KKR's defeat to Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Friday (October 1). The Delhi franchise will, however, hope to end in the top-two to get an extra chance to enter the season-finale, on October 15.

'Others cannot judge me' - R Ashwin reacts amid 'Spirit of Cricket' talks after heated exchange with KKR's Eoin Morgan

<p>R Ashwin has been in the news following his heated exchange with Eoin Morgan and Tim Southee during Delhi Capitals (DC) - Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clash in match 41 of the IPL 2021 edition, in the UAE on Tuesday (September 28).&nbsp;</p>

<p>During DC's innings, Ashwin looked to steal a another run when a throw from KKR's Rahul Tripathi had&nbsp;ricocheted off Rishabh Pant. The wily off-spinner was eager to take an extra run, which eventually got completed. This wasn't&nbsp;received well by Morgan and Southee and the two KKR stars had a go at Ashwin after his dismissal. The 34-year-old off-spinner also gave it back to the KKR duo before Dinesh Karthik played the peace-maker and tried to control things.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-virender-sehwag-takes-a-dig-at-eoin-morgan-following-kkr-captains-heated-exchange-with-r-ashwin-417092"><strong>IPL 2021: Virender Sehwag takes a dig at Eoin Morgan following KKR captain's heated exchange with R Ashwin</strong></a></p>

<p>While the incident has brought Ashwin into the news, reigniting talks regarding the 'Spirit of Cricket', the Indian star cricketer had headlined&nbsp;the news during the IPL 2019 edition as well. Back then, Ashwin was leading the Punjab Kings (then known as Kings XI Punjab) when they squared off against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Jaipur. During RR's unsuccessful 185-run chase, Buttler was going all-out versus KXIP when Ashwin mankaded him; creating a huge stir in the cricketing fraternity and social media platforms.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-dc-spinner-r-ashwin-opens-up-on-heated-altercation-with-kkr-stars-eoin-morgan-tim-southee-417109">IPL 2021: DC spinner R Ashwin opens up on heated altercation with KKR stars Eoin Morgan, Tim Southee</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here's the throwback video of Ashwin mankading Buttler:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>It remains one of the most-talked about incidents in IPL in recent times. To date, there are contrasting views regarding the controversial mode of dismissal, i.e. mankading, despite it being within the laws of the game. For the unversed, many bowlers have resorted to mankading ever since Ashwin brought it back to the limelight. Nonetheless, there remain some bowlers who give a warning to the batters instead of opting to mankad them.</p>


R Ashwin has been in the news following his heated exchange with Eoin Morgan and Tim Southee during Delhi Capitals (DC) - Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clash in match 41 of the IPL 2021 edition, in the UAE on Tuesday (September 28).

R Ashwin has been in the news following his heated exchange with Eoin Morgan and Tim Southee during Delhi Capitals (DC) - Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clash in match 41 of the IPL 2021 edition, in the UAE on Tuesday (September 28). During DC's innings, Ashwin looked to steal a another run when a throw from KKR's Rahul Tripathi had ricocheted off Rishabh Pant. The wily off-spinner was eager to take an extra run, which eventually got completed. This wasn't received well by Morgan and Southee and the two KKR stars had a go at Ashwin after his dismissal. The 34-year-old off-spinner also gave it back to the KKR duo before Dinesh Karthik played the peace-maker and tried to control things. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Virender Sehwag takes a dig at Eoin Morgan following KKR captain's heated exchange with R Ashwin While the incident has brought Ashwin into the news, reigniting talks regarding the 'Spirit of Cricket', the Indian star cricketer had headlined the news during the IPL 2019 edition as well. Back then, Ashwin was leading the Punjab Kings (then known as Kings XI Punjab) when they squared off against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Jaipur. During RR's unsuccessful 185-run chase, Buttler was going all-out versus KXIP when Ashwin mankaded him; creating a huge stir in the cricketing fraternity and social media platforms. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: DC spinner R Ashwin opens up on heated altercation with KKR stars Eoin Morgan, Tim Southee Here's the throwback video of Ashwin mankading Buttler: × It remains one of the most-talked about incidents in IPL in recent times. To date, there are contrasting views regarding the controversial mode of dismissal, i.e. mankading, despite it being within the laws of the game. For the unversed, many bowlers have resorted to mankading ever since Ashwin brought it back to the limelight. Nonetheless, there remain some bowlers who give a warning to the batters instead of opting to mankad them.

Throwback: When R Ashwin created a huge stir by 'mankading' Jos Buttler during IPL 2019 - watch

<p>Recently, reports were been doing the rounds that some senior Indian cricketers have been miffed with Virat Kohli's attitude and captaincy style. Some also claimed that the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and R Ashwin had a call with the BCCI secretary Jay Shah after the WTC final in Southampton regarding Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday (September 30), BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal shunned the reports completely and was quoted as saying by the TOI,&nbsp;"The media must stop writing this rubbish. Let me say this on the record that no Indian cricketer has made any complaint to the BCCI – writte or verbal. The BCCI can’t keep answering every false report that keeps appearing. The other day, we saw some reports saying there will be changes in India’s World Cup squad. Who said that?"</p>

<p>Now, Ashwin has also reacted sharply to the "fake news" and completely rubbished all such claims. On his Instagram story, the wily off-spinner wrote, "I am searching for the handle 'fake news', it used to be super fun for gossip. Oh Yaaaa!! Thank you guys." In his following story, he added, "Found them: I just heard they renamed themselves and are now called IANS and some others take quotes from them too. Super fun."</p>

<p><img alt="R Ashwin Instagram story" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78651391-b32d-46b1-b941-b4e48eb4e157" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ashwin-Instagram.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trouble-for-virat-kohli-senior-cricketers-complained-about-indian-skippers-attitude-to-bccis-jay-shah-report-416835">Trouble for Virat Kohli? Senior cricketers complained about Indian skipper's attitude to BCCI's Jay Shah: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli's captaincy has been the talk of the cricketing fraternity in recent times. While he remains India's Test and ODI skipper, the 32-year-old is set to step down as the T20I captain after the forthcoming World Cup in the UAE, which will commence soon after IPL 2021 edition.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-there-an-alleged-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-ravi-shastri-breaks-his-silence-410083"><strong>Was there an alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma? Ravi Shastri breaks his silence</strong></a></p>

<p>While Kohli's captaincy can be criticised by many, he still has an impressive record across formats despite not leading India to an ICC title since taking over fully in early 2017. However, alleged rifts between him and some senior cricketers have often the round in recent past, only to be shunned down completely.</p>


Recently, reports were been doing the rounds that some senior Indian cricketers have been miffed with Virat Kohli's attitude and captaincy style. Some also claimed that the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and R Ashwin had a call with the BCCI secretary Jay Shah after the WTC final in Southampton regarding Kohli.

Recently, reports were been doing the rounds that some senior Indian cricketers have been miffed with Virat Kohli's attitude and captaincy style. Some also claimed that the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and R Ashwin had a call with the BCCI secretary Jay Shah after the WTC final in Southampton regarding Kohli. On Thursday (September 30), BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal shunned the reports completely and was quoted as saying by the TOI, "The media must stop writing this rubbish. Let me say this on the record that no Indian cricketer has made any complaint to the BCCI – writte or verbal. The BCCI can’t keep answering every false report that keeps appearing. The other day, we saw some reports saying there will be changes in India’s World Cup squad. Who said that?" Now, Ashwin has also reacted sharply to the "fake news" and completely rubbished all such claims. On his Instagram story, the wily off-spinner wrote, "I am searching for the handle 'fake news', it used to be super fun for gossip. Oh Yaaaa!! Thank you guys." In his following story, he added, "Found them: I just heard they renamed themselves and are now called IANS and some others take quotes from them too. Super fun." ALSO READ | Trouble for Virat Kohli? Senior cricketers complained about Indian skipper's attitude to BCCI's Jay Shah: Report Kohli's captaincy has been the talk of the cricketing fraternity in recent times. While he remains India's Test and ODI skipper, the 32-year-old is set to step down as the T20I captain after the forthcoming World Cup in the UAE, which will commence soon after IPL 2021 edition. ALSO READ | Was there an alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma? Ravi Shastri breaks his silence While Kohli's captaincy can be criticised by many, he still has an impressive record across formats despite not leading India to an ICC title since taking over fully in early 2017. However, alleged rifts between him and some senior cricketers have often the round in recent past, only to be shunned down completely.

R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli to the BCCI go viral

<p>Virat Kohli's captaincy has been the talk of the town in the cricketing fraternity for quite some time. Under him, India remains a potent force across formats and have excelled in bilateral series. While&nbsp;they have also performed well in ICC events, the 32-year-old hasn't led India to a major title ever since he took over as the full-time captain in early 2017.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Kohli's captaincy has been under the scanner following India's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final loss to New Zealand, in mid-2021. While India came back strongly in the preceding England Tests, with a 2-1 unassailable lead in the five Tests before the series came to an abrupt end, there are reports doing the rounds that some senior Indian cricketers have complained about Kohli to the BCCI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-vows-to-guide-virat-kohli-led-india-to-t20-wc-glory-while-recalling-ms-dhoni-cos-success-in-2007-416812">Rohit Sharma vows to guide Virat Kohli-led India to T20 WC glory while recalling MS Dhoni &amp; Co.'s success in 2007</a></strong></p>

<p>As of now, nothing concrete has emerged out. A&nbsp;report in the New Indian Express mentions that Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara reportedly called up the BCCI secretary Jay Shah following Kohli's post-match comments after the WTC final loss. Back then, Kohli had stated, "If you don't put their bowlers under pressure then they have the fitness and the consistency to bowl long spells and keep bowling all day in the same areas and trouble you, and the more momentum you give them, then invariably they get the breakthroughs they want. The mindset has to be to score runs and find ways to score runs. You can't be too worried about getting out because you are [then] bringing the bowler into the game completely."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-why-does-he-have-to-be-that-guy-again-asks-shane-warne-on-r-ashwin-eoin-morgan-altercation-416770">IPL 2021: Why does he have to be that guy again, asks Shane Warne on R Ashwin-Eoin Morgan altercation</a></strong></p>

<p>In the WTC final, India had fell like nine pins in their second essay -- with Pujara and Rahane perishing for 15 apiece. Hence, it might be the case that Kohli's comments didn't go down well with the two Test specialists. Another Test specialist R Ashwin's name has also cropped up in this matter. As per a report in News18, it is the wily off-spinner who reportedly had a call with the BCCI secretary over Kohli's attitude.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Again, these are all speculations at the moment. However if it turns out to be true, Kohli might also lose out on Test captaincy whereas his ODI leadership skills will be scrutinised after India's performance in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will be the superstar cricketer's last assignment as the captain in the shortest format.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli's captaincy has been the talk of the town in the cricketing fraternity for quite some time. Under him, India remains a potent force across formats and have excelled in bilateral series.

Virat Kohli's captaincy has been the talk of the town in the cricketing fraternity for quite some time. Under him, India remains a potent force across formats and have excelled in bilateral series. While they have also performed well in ICC events, the 32-year-old hasn't led India to a major title ever since he took over as the full-time captain in early 2017. Nonetheless, Kohli's captaincy has been under the scanner following India's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final loss to New Zealand, in mid-2021. While India came back strongly in the preceding England Tests, with a 2-1 unassailable lead in the five Tests before the series came to an abrupt end, there are reports doing the rounds that some senior Indian cricketers have complained about Kohli to the BCCI. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma vows to guide Virat Kohli-led India to T20 WC glory while recalling MS Dhoni & Co.'s success in 2007 As of now, nothing concrete has emerged out. A report in the New Indian Express mentions that Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara reportedly called up the BCCI secretary Jay Shah following Kohli's post-match comments after the WTC final loss. Back then, Kohli had stated, "If you don't put their bowlers under pressure then they have the fitness and the consistency to bowl long spells and keep bowling all day in the same areas and trouble you, and the more momentum you give them, then invariably they get the breakthroughs they want. The mindset has to be to score runs and find ways to score runs. You can't be too worried about getting out because you are [then] bringing the bowler into the game completely." ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Why does he have to be that guy again, asks Shane Warne on R Ashwin-Eoin Morgan altercation In the WTC final, India had fell like nine pins in their second essay -- with Pujara and Rahane perishing for 15 apiece. Hence, it might be the case that Kohli's comments didn't go down well with the two Test specialists. Another Test specialist R Ashwin's name has also cropped up in this matter. As per a report in News18, it is the wily off-spinner who reportedly had a call with the BCCI secretary over Kohli's attitude. Again, these are all speculations at the moment. However if it turns out to be true, Kohli might also lose out on Test captaincy whereas his ODI leadership skills will be scrutinised after India's performance in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will be the superstar cricketer's last assignment as the captain in the shortest format.

Trouble for Virat Kohli? Senior cricketers complained about Indian skipper's attitude to BCCI's Jay Shah: Report

<p>Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had a perfect start to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, with a comprehensive 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22).</p>

<p>While the likes of Pant, Anrich Nortje, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer performed well, R Ashwin returned wicketless in 2.5 overs, conceding only 22 runs. Given that Ashwin has returned to India's T20I setup after a long break, for the upcoming T20 World Cup, all eyes were on him to make a mark. However, the veteran off-spinner didn't give away a lot of runs but returned without any breakthrough, which didn't impress former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag.</p>

<p>Sehwag said on Cricbuzz Live, "Ravichandran Ashwin has a mindset that if he bowls off-spin, anyone will hit him for a four or a six. Because of this fear, he resorts to experimentation. When MS Dhoni used to be behind the wickets, he never allowed Ashwin to experiment. Sometimes you need to make a bowler realize that no doubt a batsman may hit you for a six but it also gives you a chance to get him out."</p>

<p>"The way he was bowling, it gives him the least chance to dismiss a batsman. If he resorts to off-spin, then LBW, bowled comes into the equation. Yes, he was economical but as a senior bowler, he should give breakthroughs in the middle overs," Sehwag further explained.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rishabh-pant-happy-to-start-second-phase-with-a-win-over-sunrisers-hyderabad-415032"><strong>IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant 'happy' to start second phase with a win over Sunrisers Hyderabad</strong></a></p>

<p>Thus, Sehwag feels Ashwin is not fully confident in bowling off-spin due to the fear of being hit. It will be interesting to see how the 34-year-old goes ahead with the ball in hand in the upcoming encounters for the table-toppers DC franchise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>DC will next lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (September 25).</p>


Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had a perfect start to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, with a comprehensive 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22).

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) had a perfect start to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, with a comprehensive 8-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Wednesday evening (September 22). While the likes of Pant, Anrich Nortje, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer performed well, R Ashwin returned wicketless in 2.5 overs, conceding only 22 runs. Given that Ashwin has returned to India's T20I setup after a long break, for the upcoming T20 World Cup, all eyes were on him to make a mark. However, the veteran off-spinner didn't give away a lot of runs but returned without any breakthrough, which didn't impress former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag. Sehwag said on Cricbuzz Live, "Ravichandran Ashwin has a mindset that if he bowls off-spin, anyone will hit him for a four or a six. Because of this fear, he resorts to experimentation. When MS Dhoni used to be behind the wickets, he never allowed Ashwin to experiment. Sometimes you need to make a bowler realize that no doubt a batsman may hit you for a six but it also gives you a chance to get him out." "The way he was bowling, it gives him the least chance to dismiss a batsman. If he resorts to off-spin, then LBW, bowled comes into the equation. Yes, he was economical but as a senior bowler, he should give breakthroughs in the middle overs," Sehwag further explained. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant 'happy' to start second phase with a win over Sunrisers Hyderabad Thus, Sehwag feels Ashwin is not fully confident in bowling off-spin due to the fear of being hit. It will be interesting to see how the 34-year-old goes ahead with the ball in hand in the upcoming encounters for the table-toppers DC franchise. DC will next lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (September 25).

'MS Dhoni didn't allow R Ashwin...' - Virender Sehwag on DC spinner's knack of experimenting with the ball after SRH tie

<p>The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli &amp; Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues.</p>

<p>Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-rohit-sharmas-backing-led-to-r-ashwins-inclusion-in-virat-kohli-led-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-reports-412041"><strong>How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament.</p>

<p><strong>Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah</p>


The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game. Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli & Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai. Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues. Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin. ALSO READ | How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament. Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

T20 World Cup: Varun Chakravarthy pips R Ashwin in Gautam Gambhir's India XI for marquee face-off vs Pakistan

<p>Delhi Capitals' Ravichandran Ashwin released the latest instalment of his YouTube show 'Hello Dubaiah', where he had a discussion with his team head coach Ricky Ponting over Mankading.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Ponting had said that he wouldn't allow players from the team to run a batsman out at the non-striker's end using the controversial method in this year's Indian Premier League (IPL). He also said that he would have a 'hard conversation' with the Delhi Capitals off-spinner before the tournament.</p>

<p>During the show, Ashwin brought the topic of Mankading and asked the former Aussie skipper about his comments.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"I will move on to the conversation between the both of us over the run-out at the non-striker's end... To be honest, I am a serial sort of run out of guy. I started doing it at the age of 12 because I couldn't stand the batsmen taking those extra yards," Ashwin said while speaking to Ponting.</p>

<p>"I was a batsman myself in the junior category, and I feel it is a massive advantage. And the moment I did that, the spirit of cricket was brought into play," he added.</p>

<p>Ponting said: "Yeah, I totally get where you are coming from."</p>

<p>"I wasn't trying to say that you were [not] justified because it is actually in the laws of the game that you can do it. So if a batsman is cheating, and trying to steal a couple of yards.</p>

<p>"I just think that we have got to find a way around. Trying to stop the batsman cheating. We have had this conversation already. I don't want to see anyone running two or three yards down the wicket. Because that basically is cheating.</p>

<p>"I think there should be some sort of a run penalty. If you are to get to the top of your bowling action and stop, and it shows that the batsman is cheating and is out of his crease, I think put a run penalty on them.</p>

<p>"And do it right from the start, because that will stop him right away. Imagine taking 10 runs off a team total because you have taken yards... those sort of things need to be looked at," he added.&nbsp;</p>


Delhi Capitals' Ravichandran Ashwin released the latest instalment of his YouTube show 'Hello Dubaiah', where he had a discussion with his team head coach Ricky Ponting over Mankading.

Delhi Capitals' Ravichandran Ashwin released the latest instalment of his YouTube show 'Hello Dubaiah', where he had a discussion with his team head coach Ricky Ponting over Mankading. Last month, Ponting had said that he wouldn't allow players from the team to run a batsman out at the non-striker's end using the controversial method in this year's Indian Premier League (IPL). He also said that he would have a 'hard conversation' with the Delhi Capitals off-spinner before the tournament. During the show, Ashwin brought the topic of Mankading and asked the former Aussie skipper about his comments. × "I will move on to the conversation between the both of us over the run-out at the non-striker's end... To be honest, I am a serial sort of run out of guy. I started doing it at the age of 12 because I couldn't stand the batsmen taking those extra yards," Ashwin said while speaking to Ponting. "I was a batsman myself in the junior category, and I feel it is a massive advantage. And the moment I did that, the spirit of cricket was brought into play," he added. Ponting said: "Yeah, I totally get where you are coming from." "I wasn't trying to say that you were [not] justified because it is actually in the laws of the game that you can do it. So if a batsman is cheating, and trying to steal a couple of yards. "I just think that we have got to find a way around. Trying to stop the batsman cheating. We have had this conversation already. I don't want to see anyone running two or three yards down the wicket. Because that basically is cheating. "I think there should be some sort of a run penalty. If you are to get to the top of your bowling action and stop, and it shows that the batsman is cheating and is out of his crease, I think put a run penalty on them. "And do it right from the start, because that will stop him right away. Imagine taking 10 runs off a team total because you have taken yards... those sort of things need to be looked at," he added.

Delhi Capitals player R Ashwin and head coach Ricky Ponting discuss Mankading

While Rajasthan have a remote chance of making it to the playoffs, it is a do and die situation for Hyderabad as they enter in a must-win encounter with Bangalore.

IPL 2019: It's Delhi vs Rajasthan and Hyderabad vs Bangalore

Both the teams are on 10 points from 12 matches each and absolutely need to win to keep their play-off chances alive.

IPL 2019: Punjab host Kolkata in a must-win encounter

Under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer, Delhi defeated Bangalore to top the points table and book themselves a play-off berth.

IPL 2019: Chennai, Delhi to face off in battle for the top position

The Steve Smith-led side have a theoretical chance to make it to the playoffs, provided they do not lose any of their remaining two matches.

IPL 2019: Rejuvenated Rajasthan to lock horns with bottom-placed Bangalore

While Rajasthan defeated Kolkata, Hyderabad suffered a six wicket loss at the hands of Chennai.

IPL 2019: Rajasthan aim to continue winning momentum as they host Hyderabad

#IPL2019 #IPL #KKRvsRR # Dinesh Karthik #Steven Smith #Virat Kohli #MS Dhoni #R Ashwin For both teams, it will be no less than a do-or-die encounter if they want to keep their playoffs chances alive.

IPL 2019: Struggling Kolkata seek turnaround against Smith's Rajasthan

#IPL2019 #IPL #RCBvsKXIP #Virat Kohli #MS Dhoni #R Ashwin Bangalore would be high on confidence, especially after their nail-biting victory against MS Dhoni-led Chennai. Punjab, however, lost their last game to Delhi at Feroz Shah Kotla.

IPL 2019: Bangalore look to post third successive win when they host Punjab

Delhi have been doing better at away games rather than at their home ground but they managed to reverse that at the Feroz Shah Kotla with a five-wicket win over Punjab

IPL 2019: Confident Delhi look to continue momentum against rejuvenated Rajasthan

<p>Shikhar Dhawan, who plays for Delhi franchise in the Indian Premier League, mocked Ravichandran Ashwin after the spinner warned him to stay inside the crease at non-strikers' end&nbsp;during a match between Delhi and Punjab at the Feroz Shah Kotla on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Punjab skipper Ashwin has remained in the headlines lately for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=mankad">'Mankading' controversy</a> when he ran out Rajasthan's Jos Buttler, who was at the non-strikers' end, without giving him any warning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Buttler's dismissal during a match between Rajasthan and Punjab triggered a spirit of game debate and left the cricket world divided.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, Shikhar has taken a jibe at the incident after Ashwin threatened him of 'Mankad' run out in the 13th over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident happened when Ashwin aborted his delivery while bowling the fourth ball of the over to give a warning to Dhawan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shikhar, who can be seen inside the crease in the TV replays, sat on one knee facing the bowler as his immediate reaction on the incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>He even danced being inside the crease at the non-strikers' end when Ashwin was about to release the ball.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shikhar Dhawan is extremely cautious against Ravi Ashwin 😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvKXIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvKXIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/WNuZhSkwxe">pic.twitter.com/WNuZhSkwxe</a></p>
— Deepak Raj Verma (@DeVeDeTr) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeVeDeTr/status/1119658984372363264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That's How you troll Mankad-Man Ashwin 😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDhawan25</a> 👌🏼 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvKXIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvKXIP</a> <a href="https://t.co/suCwYzj1sI">pic.twitter.com/suCwYzj1sI</a></p>
— ਸਤਨਾਮ ਸਿੰਘ ਸੋਹਲ #MI (@imSatnam_) <a href="https://twitter.com/imSatnam_/status/1119662132302315520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Presenting, the troll king Shikhar Dhawan, trolling our mankad king Ravi Ashwin.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvKXIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvKXIP</a> <a href="https://t.co/w7hredT2a9">pic.twitter.com/w7hredT2a9</a></p>
— Ryuk (@dodginghumans) <a href="https://twitter.com/dodginghumans/status/1119660430685691904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Recently,&nbsp;Bangalore's skipper Virat Kohli was spotted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-hilarious-reaction-after-avoiding-mankad-run-out-against-kolkata-211920">making fun of the "Mankad" run out</a> during an IPL match against Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata team on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident happened in the 18th over when spinner Sunil Narine aborted his delivery to Marcus Stoinis after taking the run-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli, who was on the non-strikers' end, immediately grounded his bat and started laughing. In a way, he avoided the most popular the controversy of IPL 2019, "Mankading".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli, in a funny gesture, even signalled Narine that his bat was inside the crease.&nbsp;</p>


Shikhar Dhawan, who plays for Delhi franchise in the Indian Premier League, mocked Ravichandran Ashwin after the spinner warned him to stay inside the crease at non-strikers' end during a match between Delhi and Punjab at the Feroz Shah Kotla on Saturday.

Shikhar Dhawan, who plays for Delhi franchise in the Indian Premier League, mocked Ravichandran Ashwin after the spinner warned him to stay inside the crease at non-strikers' end during a match between Delhi and Punjab at the Feroz Shah Kotla on Saturday. Punjab skipper Ashwin has remained in the headlines lately for 'Mankading' controversy when he ran out Rajasthan's Jos Buttler, who was at the non-strikers' end, without giving him any warning. Buttler's dismissal during a match between Rajasthan and Punjab triggered a spirit of game debate and left the cricket world divided. Now, Shikhar has taken a jibe at the incident after Ashwin threatened him of 'Mankad' run out in the 13th over. The incident happened when Ashwin aborted his delivery while bowling the fourth ball of the over to give a warning to Dhawan. Shikhar, who can be seen inside the crease in the TV replays, sat on one knee facing the bowler as his immediate reaction on the incident. He even danced being inside the crease at the non-strikers' end when Ashwin was about to release the ball. Watch the video: Shikhar Dhawan is extremely cautious against Ravi Ashwin 😂 #DCvKXIP #IPL2019 pic.twitter.com/WNuZhSkwxe — Deepak Raj Verma (@DeVeDeTr) April 20, 2019 × That's How you troll Mankad-Man Ashwin 😂 @SDhawan25 👌🏼 #DCvKXIP pic.twitter.com/suCwYzj1sI — ਸਤਨਾਮ ਸਿੰਘ ਸੋਹਲ #MI (@imSatnam_) April 20, 2019 × Presenting, the troll king Shikhar Dhawan, trolling our mankad king Ravi Ashwin.#IPL2019 #DCvKXIP pic.twitter.com/w7hredT2a9 — Ryuk (@dodginghumans) April 20, 2019 × Recently, Bangalore's skipper Virat Kohli was spotted making fun of the "Mankad" run out during an IPL match against Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata team on Friday. The incident happened in the 18th over when spinner Sunil Narine aborted his delivery to Marcus Stoinis after taking the run-up. Kohli, who was on the non-strikers' end, immediately grounded his bat and started laughing. In a way, he avoided the most popular the controversy of IPL 2019, "Mankading". Kohli, in a funny gesture, even signalled Narine that his bat was inside the crease.

Shikhar Dhawan reacts derisively when Ashwin tries to 'Mankad' him

Rajasthan will play to register their third win of the season, Delhi will enter the ground to return to the winning ways, after being defeated by Mumbai at Kotla

IPL 2019: It's Rajasthan vs Mumbai and Delhi vs Punjab

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