The IPL 2022 edition is keenly awaited. The upcoming season will see two new teams joining the cash-rich league, in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Ahead of the next year's IPL season, the mega auction will take place -- most likely in January, 2022 -- as many marquee players will enter the auction pool whereas many youngsters will get a chance to feature in the IPL.

Ahead of the mega auction, all the eight existing franchises have to share their list of retained players, maximum by November 30 (Tuesday). As per the rules, each franchise can retain a maximum of four players -- three Indians and one foreign player of two Indian and overseas players each. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his list of four players who are likely to be retained by the one-time winners Rajasthan Royals (RR).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-should-make-way-for-kohli-ex-all-rounder-names-senior-batter-who-should-be-dropped-for-2nd-test-432739">He should make way for Kohli: Ex all-rounder names senior batter who should be dropped for 2nd Test</a>

Pathan told Star Sports, "Sanju Samson for sure, second number will be Jos Buttler because he's been in fantastic form, one of the best hitters going around especially if you are talking about white ball cricket, so you don't want to miss out on that wicket-keeper batsman, who can bat up the order and down the order as well.

"The other guy, people might be tempted for Ben Stokes because he's a wonderful all-rounder, but I think I would put Jofra Archer in the same category as Jasprith Bumrah because you don't find many bowlers like that. So, I definitely would like Rajasthan Royals to retain Jofra Archer, and the fourth one, I am very tempted for Yashasvi Jaiswal because he's a young guy, who’s shown a lot of potential, and he could be the guy you could invest in.”

For the unversed, a&nbsp;report in ESPNcrinfo had recently suggested that RR have retained their skipper Samson for a whopping price. It remains to be seen how many players will the one-time champions retain ahead of the mega auction.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/most-expensive-player-in-ipl-kl-rahul-offered-staggering-amount-by-lucknow-franchise-report-432718">Most expensive player in IPL? KL Rahul offered staggering amount by Lucknow franchise - Report</a>

If Pathan's prediction comes true for RR, Ben Stokes might enter the auction pool and grab a mammoth deal by either of the two new teams or from the existing franchises. Meanwhile, many other players such as KL Rahul, David Warner, Pandya brothers, Suryakumar Yadav, etc. are expected to make heads turn in the IPL 2022 auction (if not retained by their current franchises).

The IPL 2022 edition is keenly awaited. The upcoming season will see two new teams joining the cash-rich league, in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Ahead of the next year's IPL season, the mega auction will take place -- most likely in January, 2022 -- as many marquee players will enter the auction pool whereas many youngsters will get a chance to feature in the IPL.

The IPL 2022 edition is keenly awaited. The upcoming season will see two new teams joining the cash-rich league, in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Ahead of the next year's IPL season, the mega auction will take place -- most likely in January, 2022 -- as many marquee players will enter the auction pool whereas many youngsters will get a chance to feature in the IPL. Ahead of the mega auction, all the eight existing franchises have to share their list of retained players, maximum by November 30 (Tuesday). As per the rules, each franchise can retain a maximum of four players -- three Indians and one foreign player of two Indian and overseas players each. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his list of four players who are likely to be retained by the one-time winners Rajasthan Royals (RR). ALSO READ | He should make way for Kohli: Ex all-rounder names senior batter who should be dropped for 2nd Test Pathan told Star Sports, "Sanju Samson for sure, second number will be Jos Buttler because he's been in fantastic form, one of the best hitters going around especially if you are talking about white ball cricket, so you don't want to miss out on that wicket-keeper batsman, who can bat up the order and down the order as well. "The other guy, people might be tempted for Ben Stokes because he's a wonderful all-rounder, but I think I would put Jofra Archer in the same category as Jasprith Bumrah because you don't find many bowlers like that. So, I definitely would like Rajasthan Royals to retain Jofra Archer, and the fourth one, I am very tempted for Yashasvi Jaiswal because he's a young guy, who’s shown a lot of potential, and he could be the guy you could invest in.” For the unversed, a report in ESPNcrinfo had recently suggested that RR have retained their skipper Samson for a whopping price. It remains to be seen how many players will the one-time champions retain ahead of the mega auction. ALSO READ | Most expensive player in IPL? KL Rahul offered staggering amount by Lucknow franchise - Report If Pathan's prediction comes true for RR, Ben Stokes might enter the auction pool and grab a mammoth deal by either of the two new teams or from the existing franchises. Meanwhile, many other players such as KL Rahul, David Warner, Pandya brothers, Suryakumar Yadav, etc. are expected to make heads turn in the IPL 2022 auction (if not retained by their current franchises).

Irfan Pathan picks his 4 retentions for RR ahead of IPL 2022 mega auction, excludes star player

With the deadline day of November 30 approaching, all the existing eight franchises of the Indian Premier League (IPL) are busy sorting out their final lists of retained players. All eight teams can retain a maximum of only four players while the two new teams - Ahmedabad and Lucknow franchises will be allowed to pick three players each from the list of non-retained players.

The mega player auction is set to be conducted ahead of the start of IPL 2022 next year and all teams will be looking to build their squads from scratch while retaining a strong core group of players. Here we take a look at who Royal Challengers Bangalore, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals might retain ahead of the IPL mega auction.

1) Royal Challengers Bangalore - Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will not have Virat Kohli leading the side from IPL 2022 and will also miss the services of AB de Villiers, who has already retired from all forms of cricket. However, RCB are all set to retain Kohli as a pure batter along with Glenn Maxwell, as per a report in NDTV.

While Kohli is likely to be the first-choice retention having spent his entire IPL career with RCB so far, Maxwell is all set to be the second player to be retained by RCB after being roped in last year. RCB might also look at retaining pacer Harshal Patel and opening batter Devdutt Padikkal.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-franchises-miffed-after-bcci-bans-deals-with-cryptocurrency-exchanges-432097">&nbsp;IPL franchises miffed after BCCI bans deals with cryptocurrency exchange</a>s

2)&nbsp;Rajasthan Royals - Sanju Samson, Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler

Rajasthan Royals have retained their skipper Sanju Samson for the upcoming IPL 2022 after agreeing to a contract of Rs 14 crore with the Indian keeper-batter, as per ESPN Cricinfo. RR have a number of stars in their ranks and the likes of Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer are among the favourites to be retained.

It remains to be seen how RR will go about their retentions ahead of the mega auction and who will they keep to form their core around ahead of the new season.

3) Punjab Kings - Mayank Agarwal, Ravi Bishnoi

Punjab Kings will part ways with their captain KL Rahul ahead of the new season. Rahul had expressed his willingness to leave the side and head into the auction. However, as per reports, he is set to join the Lucknow franchise and will captain the team in IPL 2022.

With Rahul not in the fray, Punjab Kings face a huge dilemma as some of the members of the team management reportedly feel none of Mayank Agarwal or Ravi Bishnoi is worth the money they would have to shell out to keep them. Punjab Kings might not retain any of the players from their existing squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-keep-whom-list-of-players-likely-to-be-retained-by-csk-kkr-dc-and-mi-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-432050">List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

4) Sunrisers Hyderabad - Kane Williamson, Rashid Khan&nbsp;

Sunrisers Hyderabad are reportedly keen on retaining only two players - Kane Williamson and Rashid Khan. However, Rashid is likely to be their second-choice retention behind Williamson which has not gone down well with the Afghanistan spinner, who wants himself to be the first pick.&nbsp;

If a franchise decides to retain only two players, the first-choice retention will get an amount of Rs 14 crore (INR 140 million) while the second-choice retention will be retained for Rs 10 crore (INR 100 million).

With the deadline day of November 30 approaching, all the existing eight franchises of the Indian Premier League (IPL) are busy sorting out their final lists of retained players.

With the deadline day of November 30 approaching, all the existing eight franchises of the Indian Premier League (IPL) are busy sorting out their final lists of retained players. All eight teams can retain a maximum of only four players while the two new teams - Ahmedabad and Lucknow franchises will be allowed to pick three players each from the list of non-retained players. The mega player auction is set to be conducted ahead of the start of IPL 2022 next year and all teams will be looking to build their squads from scratch while retaining a strong core group of players. Here we take a look at who Royal Challengers Bangalore, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals might retain ahead of the IPL mega auction. 1) Royal Challengers Bangalore - Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will not have Virat Kohli leading the side from IPL 2022 and will also miss the services of AB de Villiers, who has already retired from all forms of cricket. However, RCB are all set to retain Kohli as a pure batter along with Glenn Maxwell, as per a report in NDTV. While Kohli is likely to be the first-choice retention having spent his entire IPL career with RCB so far, Maxwell is all set to be the second player to be retained by RCB after being roped in last year. RCB might also look at retaining pacer Harshal Patel and opening batter Devdutt Padikkal. Also Read: IPL franchises miffed after BCCI bans deals with cryptocurrency exchanges 2) Rajasthan Royals - Sanju Samson, Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler Rajasthan Royals have retained their skipper Sanju Samson for the upcoming IPL 2022 after agreeing to a contract of Rs 14 crore with the Indian keeper-batter, as per ESPN Cricinfo. RR have a number of stars in their ranks and the likes of Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer are among the favourites to be retained. It remains to be seen how RR will go about their retentions ahead of the mega auction and who will they keep to form their core around ahead of the new season. 3) Punjab Kings - Mayank Agarwal, Ravi Bishnoi Punjab Kings will part ways with their captain KL Rahul ahead of the new season. Rahul had expressed his willingness to leave the side and head into the auction. However, as per reports, he is set to join the Lucknow franchise and will captain the team in IPL 2022. With Rahul not in the fray, Punjab Kings face a huge dilemma as some of the members of the team management reportedly feel none of Mayank Agarwal or Ravi Bishnoi is worth the money they would have to shell out to keep them. Punjab Kings might not retain any of the players from their existing squad. Also Read: List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction 4) Sunrisers Hyderabad - Kane Williamson, Rashid Khan Sunrisers Hyderabad are reportedly keen on retaining only two players - Kane Williamson and Rashid Khan. However, Rashid is likely to be their second-choice retention behind Williamson which has not gone down well with the Afghanistan spinner, who wants himself to be the first pick. If a franchise decides to retain only two players, the first-choice retention will get an amount of Rs 14 crore (INR 140 million) while the second-choice retention will be retained for Rs 10 crore (INR 100 million).

A look at players RCB, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals and SRH might retain ahead of IPL mega auction

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have reportedly retained their skipper Sanju Samson ahead of the mega auction, scheduled to take place early next year, for the IPL 2022 edition.&nbsp;

As per a report in&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo, the Royals have retained the services of captain Samson&nbsp;for a whopping price of INR 14 crore (1.8 crore usd). It is to be noted that although Samson would've technically been retained for INR 16 crore as the one-time winners' first retention choice, however,&nbsp;the management agreed on a deal worth the mentioned amount with the keeper-batsman. For the unversed, Samson was last signed by the Royals in 2018 when they had paid INR 8 crores for his services. Thus, the cricketer's rise in stature is surely evident as his price has gone significantly. He was on a roll with the bat in IPL 14, amassing 484 runs in 14 matches (6th most).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-auction-delhi-capitals-to-release-shreyas-iyer-as-list-of-players-to-be-retained-released-report-431983">Mumbai Indians unlikely to retain star batsman ahead of mega auction for IPL 2022: Report</a>

RR still have three slots to fill for their list of retained players. While Liam Livingstone, Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler, Yaishavi Jaiswal are being considered, it is surprising to note that England all-rounder Ben Stokes is not even being discussed. The star player had missed entire IPL 2021 due to personal reasons. In addition,&nbsp;it's only from a financial standpoint that the franchise bosses are sweating hard&nbsp;to find ways to retain him over other overseas options.

On the other hand, Archer is a safe bet in the shortest format but his injury-issues might not help his case. He had also missed entire IPL 2021, T20 World Cup (due to elbow issues) and won't even be part of the Ashes 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-auction-delhi-capitals-to-release-shreyas-iyer-as-list-of-players-to-be-retained-released-report-431983">IPL 2022 auction: Delhi Capitals to release Shreyas Iyer as list of players to be retained released - Report</a>

Speaking of the other franchises, the Delhi Capitals (DC) have reportedly decided on their retained players. It includes their IPL 2021's captain Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Prithvi Shaw and speedster Anrich Nortje. This means some big names such as R Ashwin, Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada are set to enter the auction pool.&nbsp;

The IPL 2022 auction is likely to be held in early January, 2022. All the existing eight teams have to share their list of retained players by November 30. On the other hand, two new teams -- i.e. Lucknow and Ahmedabad -- will get the license to sign three players each among the non-retained players before the auction.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have reportedly retained their skipper Sanju Samson ahead of the mega auction, scheduled to take place early next year, for the IPL 2022 edition.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have reportedly retained their skipper Sanju Samson ahead of the mega auction, scheduled to take place early next year, for the IPL 2022 edition. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the Royals have retained the services of captain Samson for a whopping price of INR 14 crore (1.8 crore usd). It is to be noted that although Samson would've technically been retained for INR 16 crore as the one-time winners' first retention choice, however, the management agreed on a deal worth the mentioned amount with the keeper-batsman. For the unversed, Samson was last signed by the Royals in 2018 when they had paid INR 8 crores for his services. Thus, the cricketer's rise in stature is surely evident as his price has gone significantly. He was on a roll with the bat in IPL 14, amassing 484 runs in 14 matches (6th most). ALSO READ | Mumbai Indians unlikely to retain star batsman ahead of mega auction for IPL 2022: Report RR still have three slots to fill for their list of retained players. While Liam Livingstone, Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler, Yaishavi Jaiswal are being considered, it is surprising to note that England all-rounder Ben Stokes is not even being discussed. The star player had missed entire IPL 2021 due to personal reasons. In addition, it's only from a financial standpoint that the franchise bosses are sweating hard to find ways to retain him over other overseas options. On the other hand, Archer is a safe bet in the shortest format but his injury-issues might not help his case. He had also missed entire IPL 2021, T20 World Cup (due to elbow issues) and won't even be part of the Ashes 2021. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 auction: Delhi Capitals to release Shreyas Iyer as list of players to be retained released - Report Speaking of the other franchises, the Delhi Capitals (DC) have reportedly decided on their retained players. It includes their IPL 2021's captain Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Prithvi Shaw and speedster Anrich Nortje. This means some big names such as R Ashwin, Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada are set to enter the auction pool. The IPL 2022 auction is likely to be held in early January, 2022. All the existing eight teams have to share their list of retained players by November 30. On the other hand, two new teams -- i.e. Lucknow and Ahmedabad -- will get the license to sign three players each among the non-retained players before the auction.

RR retain skipper Sanju Samson for whopping price; Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer likely to follow suit: Report

IPL 2021's second and final leg finally commenced on September 19 (Sunday) as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) took on fourth-ranked Rohit Sharma-less Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. CSK beat MI by 20 runs, in match 30, and the action will now move to Abu Dhabi where Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday.

Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) will also hope to commence the UAE leg with a win over KL Rahul-led Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), in Dubai, on Tuesday (September 21). Ahead of the encounter, Samson and all-rounder Chris Morris attended a pre-season fan conference, held by the RR franchise, where Samson spoke at length on the challenges of leading the side in a first-ever IPL season being held in two halves.

For the unversed, Samson &amp; Co. are without their big players such as Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, etc. but have enough firepower with Liam Livingstone, Tabraiz Shamsi and many other valuable additions to go the distance in the 14th edition. Apart from the big guns being unavailable, RR will also have to adapt to the conditions, like all other teams, as this year's edition is being held in India (first leg) and the UAE.

On being asked of the challenges of leading the team in a season of two halves with the final leg resuming after a gap of over 4 months, Samson said in response to a query from&nbsp;wionnews.com, "Yes, this is the first such season of two halves. It is a challenge but we keep facing challenges of different sorts from time to time. Last edition, the biggest challenge was to play amid Covid-19 times and inside bio-bubble environment and this time the season resumes after months. But as professionals, we are used to and are very excited and confident to kick off once again."

RR are occupying the fifth position, who thrashed Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 55 runs in their last encounter from the India leg, and will hope to be more consistent in the final leg of IPL 2021.

IPL 2021's second and final leg finally commenced on September 19 (Sunday) as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) took on fourth-ranked Rohit Sharma-less Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

IPL 2021's second and final leg finally commenced on September 19 (Sunday) as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) took on fourth-ranked Rohit Sharma-less Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. CSK beat MI by 20 runs, in match 30, and the action will now move to Abu Dhabi where Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday. Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) will also hope to commence the UAE leg with a win over KL Rahul-led Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), in Dubai, on Tuesday (September 21). Ahead of the encounter, Samson and all-rounder Chris Morris attended a pre-season fan conference, held by the RR franchise, where Samson spoke at length on the challenges of leading the side in a first-ever IPL season being held in two halves. For the unversed, Samson & Co. are without their big players such as Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, etc. but have enough firepower with Liam Livingstone, Tabraiz Shamsi and many other valuable additions to go the distance in the 14th edition. Apart from the big guns being unavailable, RR will also have to adapt to the conditions, like all other teams, as this year's edition is being held in India (first leg) and the UAE. On being asked of the challenges of leading the team in a season of two halves with the final leg resuming after a gap of over 4 months, Samson said in response to a query from wionnews.com, "Yes, this is the first such season of two halves. It is a challenge but we keep facing challenges of different sorts from time to time. Last edition, the biggest challenge was to play amid Covid-19 times and inside bio-bubble environment and this time the season resumes after months. But as professionals, we are used to and are very excited and confident to kick off once again." RR are occupying the fifth position, who thrashed Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 55 runs in their last encounter from the India leg, and will hope to be more consistent in the final leg of IPL 2021.

IPL 2021: Sanju Samson reveals the 'challenges' in leading Rajasthan Royals in first-ever season of two halves

IPL 2021 edition saw two new captains in the form of Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson. While Samson took charge of the Rajasthan Royals (RR), taking over from Steve Smith, Pant replaced Shreyas Iyer after the Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper injured himself ahead of IPL 14's first leg, in India early this year.

While Iyer joined the DC franchise before the second and final leg, in the UAE, the team management continued with Pant as the skipper for the remainder of the season. Under Pant, DC topped the league stage and bowed out after losing the Qualifier 2 to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). On the other hand, Samson-led RR finished at the seventh position.&nbsp;

Though T20s is regarded as a format for the youngsters, Sanjay Manjrekar still prefers experience over youth when it comes to leading a side in T20s. Hence, the former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator made a big claim on Pant and Samson being given captaincy in IPL 2021.

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>

"The two teams that have reached the finals have been led by two seasoned captains - Morgan and Mahendra Singh Dhoni. I have come to this belief at the moment based on whatever I have seen in the IPL... I just wonder when you are looking at T20 specialist bowlers and batters and all-rounders, I think it's time for us to also start looking for T20 specialist captains, you know, great T20 captains. It's beyond me how T20 captaincy is given to a young Rishabh Pant, [he's] still young cricket wise, young Shreyas Iyer or Sanju Samson," Manjrekar said in a chat with&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.

"I just don't understand the basis of that call because T20 captaincy is tough, it has a great impact... so I believe you've got to have brilliant T20 captains captaining sides and then even an ordinary side, I mean, look at CSK they have major weaknesses there but Dhoni has been able to get the best out of his playing XI. And those are the kind of captains IPL teams deserve, captains who are brilliant and just by their leadership and tactics will make a difference," he further asserted

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<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">IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant doesn't 'have words to express' after 'unfortunate' loss against KKR in Qualifier 2</a>

It will be interesting to see if Pant and Samson manage to hold onto their respective captaincy roles, in DC and RR franchise respectively, in IPL 2022.&nbsp; As of now, two veteran captains -- who have had a below-par season with the bat -- in MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan are set to lock horns in the IPL 14 season-finale, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)&nbsp;on Friday (October 15) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

IPL 2021 edition saw two new captains in the form of Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson. While Samson took charge of the Rajasthan Royals (RR), taking over from Steve Smith, Pant replaced Shreyas Iyer after the Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper injured himself ahead of IPL 14's first leg, in India early this year.

IPL 2021 edition saw two new captains in the form of Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson. While Samson took charge of the Rajasthan Royals (RR), taking over from Steve Smith, Pant replaced Shreyas Iyer after the Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper injured himself ahead of IPL 14's first leg, in India early this year. While Iyer joined the DC franchise before the second and final leg, in the UAE, the team management continued with Pant as the skipper for the remainder of the season. Under Pant, DC topped the league stage and bowed out after losing the Qualifier 2 to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). On the other hand, Samson-led RR finished at the seventh position. Though T20s is regarded as a format for the youngsters, Sanjay Manjrekar still prefers experience over youth when it comes to leading a side in T20s. Hence, the former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator made a big claim on Pant and Samson being given captaincy in IPL 2021. ALSO READ | Would never have R Ashwin in my T20 team: Sanjay Manjrekar's BOLD claim after DC lose Qualifier 2 to KKR "The two teams that have reached the finals have been led by two seasoned captains - Morgan and Mahendra Singh Dhoni. I have come to this belief at the moment based on whatever I have seen in the IPL... I just wonder when you are looking at T20 specialist bowlers and batters and all-rounders, I think it's time for us to also start looking for T20 specialist captains, you know, great T20 captains. It's beyond me how T20 captaincy is given to a young Rishabh Pant, [he's] still young cricket wise, young Shreyas Iyer or Sanju Samson," Manjrekar said in a chat with ESPNCricinfo. "I just don't understand the basis of that call because T20 captaincy is tough, it has a great impact... so I believe you've got to have brilliant T20 captains captaining sides and then even an ordinary side, I mean, look at CSK they have major weaknesses there but Dhoni has been able to get the best out of his playing XI. And those are the kind of captains IPL teams deserve, captains who are brilliant and just by their leadership and tactics will make a difference," he further asserted ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant doesn't 'have words to express' after 'unfortunate' loss against KKR in Qualifier 2 It will be interesting to see if Pant and Samson manage to hold onto their respective captaincy roles, in DC and RR franchise respectively, in IPL 2022. As of now, two veteran captains -- who have had a below-par season with the bat -- in MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan are set to lock horns in the IPL 14 season-finale, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday (October 15) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

IPL 2021: Beyond me how captaincy was given to Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, opines Sanjay Manjrekar

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years provided several budding cricketers across India a platform to rub shoulders with the best in the world and showcase their talent and skills at the highest level. It remains a dream for many to bag an elusive IPL contract and ply their trade in one of the best T20 leagues in the world. However, not many get to live the dream of playing in the IPL or becoming a part of a top franchise in the league.

With thousands of young cricketers trying to make a name for themselves in India's vast and sophisticated domestic circuit, it often becomes difficult to spot talent at the grassroots level and nurture them properly. There have been numerous success stories in the IPL where players spotted at the local level by scouts have gone on to become heroes for their respective franchises and even represented team India at the highest level.

The likes of Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and several others were not a big name in the Indian domestic circuit but were spotted by the scouts at the right time and were offered the platform to shine. To unearth more such stars and help them bridge the gap between the domestic circuit and the IPL, Red Bull has launched the Red Bull Speedster program which aims to find India's best fast bowling talents.

The Speedster program gives youngsters across the country a chance to showcase their talent and skills in qualifying rounds. Those who make it to the final go up against each other and the winner finally gets a chance to train with the Rajasthan Royals. The bowlers are judged based on raw pace, skills and accuracy. Three bowlers have so far been selected as net bowlers for the Royals after coming through the Red Bull Speedster program.

The three bowlers - Mohammad Shareem, Prateek Kumar and Preet Kanwar have been training with Rajasthan Royals as net bowlers and have been bowling against some of the best batsmen in the world including the likes of skipper Sanju Samson, Liam Livingstone and Evin Lewis among others.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhoni-gives-autographed-ball-to-a-teary-eyed-young-girl-after-csks-qualifier-1-win-vs-dc-watch-419817">MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch</a>

Sharim and Pratik were selected at the 2020 Speedster and trained at RR's camp for three months before being selected as net bowlers for IPL 2021. Preet was selected earlier this year and made it as a net bowler for the UAE leg of the IPL 2021.

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Pratik, who hails from the legendary MS Dhoni's hometown Ranchi, said it was a dream come true moment for him when he was selected as a net bowler for the Royals. Having bowled at some of the top batsmen in the RR nets, Pratik hopes to play in the IPL as a full-time player one day.

"It's such an honour that everyone desires for. I thank Red Bull Speedster contest for making my dream come true. A lifetime opportunity to experience the team atmosphere of such a big franchise like Rajasthan Royals," Pratik told WION.

"Of course, it's a big yes. Every player in India wants to have an opportunity to play IPL, as it's a huge opportunity for a youngster to leave his impact on cricketing world. A franchise such as RR always cherish the young talent in India. Hope to get an opportunity in domestic session, so that I can make it to the team one day," he added, when asked if he would like to represent RR in the IPL in future.

Sharim, who hails from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, found out about the Speedster challenge through a friend and it has since proved to be a game-changer for him. The talented youngster&nbsp;has already bowled at the likes of Ben Stokes, Samson and Chris Morris among others and is focused on learning as much as he can from his time with the franchise.

"A friend told me about this. Red Bull Speedster has been a game-changer for me. &nbsp;Very helpful. Experience to train and practice with top international players too," Sharim told WION.

"I have bowled to every player of RR. Star players like Liam Livingston, Evin Lewis, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Chris Morris, Glenn Philip etc," he added on his experience as a net bowler with RR.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-reaction-is-epic-as-greatest-finisher-ms-dhonis-chennai-super-kings-enter-ipl-2021-final-419751">Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final</a>

As the young pace bowlers from small cities of India work hard towards their dream of playing in the IPL, former India cricketer Munaf Patel deserves the credit for spotting them at the right time and taking them under his wings. Munaf is the chief selector during the city-level qualifiers of the Speedster and is also working closely with the RR team management to look after the growth of the selected pacers.

The 2011 World Cup-winner with MS Dhoni-led India, believes the Speedster program can prove to be a game-changer for Indian cricket as far as fast bowling is concerned as it can help in identifying talent which often goes unnoticed.

"The platform provided by programs such as these can be a huge game-changer for the future of our country's cricket where fast bowling is concerned. This is a very good opportunity for the young ones who would otherwise go undiscovered," said Munaf, who played&nbsp;13 Tests and 70 ODIs for India.

Munaf is hopeful of developing some future stars for the Indian cricket team and the Rajasthan Royals with the help of the Speedster program which not only identifies talent but also ensured they are nurtured properly.

"One might have talent but most of it does not see the light of the day just because of lack of opportunities.&nbsp;This initiative does not just stop at scouting talent but goes on to groom them and ensure they find just place in the world of cricket which is extremely important," said Munaf.

"I am positive that we will soon see a battery of bowlers in blue jersey who have come through Red Bull Speedster program," he added.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years provided several budding cricketers across India a platform to rub shoulders with the best in the world and showcase their talent and skills at the highest level.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years provided several budding cricketers across India a platform to rub shoulders with the best in the world and showcase their talent and skills at the highest level. It remains a dream for many to bag an elusive IPL contract and ply their trade in one of the best T20 leagues in the world. However, not many get to live the dream of playing in the IPL or becoming a part of a top franchise in the league. With thousands of young cricketers trying to make a name for themselves in India's vast and sophisticated domestic circuit, it often becomes difficult to spot talent at the grassroots level and nurture them properly. There have been numerous success stories in the IPL where players spotted at the local level by scouts have gone on to become heroes for their respective franchises and even represented team India at the highest level. The likes of Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and several others were not a big name in the Indian domestic circuit but were spotted by the scouts at the right time and were offered the platform to shine. To unearth more such stars and help them bridge the gap between the domestic circuit and the IPL, Red Bull has launched the Red Bull Speedster program which aims to find India's best fast bowling talents. The Speedster program gives youngsters across the country a chance to showcase their talent and skills in qualifying rounds. Those who make it to the final go up against each other and the winner finally gets a chance to train with the Rajasthan Royals. The bowlers are judged based on raw pace, skills and accuracy. Three bowlers have so far been selected as net bowlers for the Royals after coming through the Red Bull Speedster program. The three bowlers - Mohammad Shareem, Prateek Kumar and Preet Kanwar have been training with Rajasthan Royals as net bowlers and have been bowling against some of the best batsmen in the world including the likes of skipper Sanju Samson, Liam Livingstone and Evin Lewis among others. Also Read: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch Sharim and Pratik were selected at the 2020 Speedster and trained at RR's camp for three months before being selected as net bowlers for IPL 2021. Preet was selected earlier this year and made it as a net bowler for the UAE leg of the IPL 2021. × Pratik, who hails from the legendary MS Dhoni's hometown Ranchi, said it was a dream come true moment for him when he was selected as a net bowler for the Royals. Having bowled at some of the top batsmen in the RR nets, Pratik hopes to play in the IPL as a full-time player one day. "It's such an honour that everyone desires for. I thank Red Bull Speedster contest for making my dream come true. A lifetime opportunity to experience the team atmosphere of such a big franchise like Rajasthan Royals," Pratik told WION. "Of course, it's a big yes. Every player in India wants to have an opportunity to play IPL, as it's a huge opportunity for a youngster to leave his impact on cricketing world. A franchise such as RR always cherish the young talent in India. Hope to get an opportunity in domestic session, so that I can make it to the team one day," he added, when asked if he would like to represent RR in the IPL in future. Sharim, who hails from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, found out about the Speedster challenge through a friend and it has since proved to be a game-changer for him. The talented youngster has already bowled at the likes of Ben Stokes, Samson and Chris Morris among others and is focused on learning as much as he can from his time with the franchise. "A friend told me about this. Red Bull Speedster has been a game-changer for me. Very helpful. Experience to train and practice with top international players too," Sharim told WION. "I have bowled to every player of RR. Star players like Liam Livingston, Evin Lewis, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Chris Morris, Glenn Philip etc," he added on his experience as a net bowler with RR. Also Read: Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final As the young pace bowlers from small cities of India work hard towards their dream of playing in the IPL, former India cricketer Munaf Patel deserves the credit for spotting them at the right time and taking them under his wings. Munaf is the chief selector during the city-level qualifiers of the Speedster and is also working closely with the RR team management to look after the growth of the selected pacers. The 2011 World Cup-winner with MS Dhoni-led India, believes the Speedster program can prove to be a game-changer for Indian cricket as far as fast bowling is concerned as it can help in identifying talent which often goes unnoticed. "The platform provided by programs such as these can be a huge game-changer for the future of our country's cricket where fast bowling is concerned. This is a very good opportunity for the young ones who would otherwise go undiscovered," said Munaf, who played 13 Tests and 70 ODIs for India. Munaf is hopeful of developing some future stars for the Indian cricket team and the Rajasthan Royals with the help of the Speedster program which not only identifies talent but also ensured they are nurtured properly. "One might have talent but most of it does not see the light of the day just because of lack of opportunities. This initiative does not just stop at scouting talent but goes on to groom them and ensure they find just place in the world of cricket which is extremely important," said Munaf. "I am positive that we will soon see a battery of bowlers in blue jersey who have come through Red Bull Speedster program," he added.

Living the Royal dream! Youngsters ace speedster challenge to train with Rajasthan Royals as net bowlers

After Kolkata Knight Riders crushed Rajasthan Royals by 86 runs on Thursday (October 7) to take a step closer to the fourth and final spot in the Indian Premier League 2021 playoffs, KKR skipper Eoin Morgan said that they did everything right on the field and deserved to end up on the winning side.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"I don't think it could have got better. Losing the toss and batting was difficult. The start we got was fantastic. (Shubman) Gill and (Venkatesh) Iyer have been our shining light. To get 170 we thought was in a commanding position. A really strong performance today," Morgan said after the match.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kolkata-knight-riders-beat-rajasthan-royals-by-86-runs-take-giant-step-towards-playoffs-418978">Kolkata Knight Riders beat Rajasthan Royals by 86 runs, take giant step towards playoffs</a>

"Having aggressive players coming in in the middle order helped us kick...I am not too attached to things as to what will happen and what won't happen... We have done everything tonight. We deserved to win..."

Shubman Gill hit a 44 ball 56 as Kolkata stormed to 171 for four in Sharjah. Shivam Mavi then took four wickets for 21 off just 19 balls as Rajasthan collapsed to 85 all out in 16.1 overs.

Mavi, who won Player of the Match award, said, "I feel really good to do well on this wicket. I learnt how to use the slower ball, when to bowl the yorker, I have learnt a lot here at KKR. I liked Dube's wicket."

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-she-said-yes-deepak-chahars-bollywood-like-proposal-to-girlfriend-during-ipl-match-is-adorable-418951">Deepak Chahar's Bollywood-like proposal to girlfriend during IPL match is ADORABLE</a>

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𝙎𝙥𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 
 
There was no escaping the Lockie Gun tonight 😤 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LockieFerguson?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LockieFerguson</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvRR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvRR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A6%86%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%BFKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#আমিKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ed2EPdvrTN">pic.twitter.com/Ed2EPdvrTN</a>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1446191773303246874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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One team. One dream 👏🏽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Believe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Believe</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gw8eJgorEV">pic.twitter.com/Gw8eJgorEV</a>
— Nitish Rana (@NitishRana_27) <a href="https://twitter.com/NitishRana_27/status/1446190133640761377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Mumbai Indians could equal Kolkata's 14 points if they beat Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final league game on Friday. But they would need a winning margin of 171 runs to clinch a playoff place with table toppers Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have made the final four.&nbsp;

After Kolkata Knight Riders crushed Rajasthan Royals by 86 runs on Thursday (October 7) to take a step closer to the fourth and final spot in the Indian Premier League 2021 playoffs, KKR skipper Eoin Morgan said that they did everything right on the field and deserved to end up on the winning side.

After Kolkata Knight Riders crushed Rajasthan Royals by 86 runs on Thursday (October 7) to take a step closer to the fourth and final spot in the Indian Premier League 2021 playoffs, KKR skipper Eoin Morgan said that they did everything right on the field and deserved to end up on the winning side. "I don't think it could have got better. Losing the toss and batting was difficult. The start we got was fantastic. (Shubman) Gill and (Venkatesh) Iyer have been our shining light. To get 170 we thought was in a commanding position. A really strong performance today," Morgan said after the match. ALSO READ | Kolkata Knight Riders beat Rajasthan Royals by 86 runs, take giant step towards playoffs "Having aggressive players coming in in the middle order helped us kick...I am not too attached to things as to what will happen and what won't happen... We have done everything tonight. We deserved to win..." Shubman Gill hit a 44 ball 56 as Kolkata stormed to 171 for four in Sharjah. Shivam Mavi then took four wickets for 21 off just 19 balls as Rajasthan collapsed to 85 all out in 16.1 overs. Mavi, who won Player of the Match award, said, "I feel really good to do well on this wicket. I learnt how to use the slower ball, when to bowl the yorker, I have learnt a lot here at KKR. I liked Dube's wicket." WATCH | Deepak Chahar's Bollywood-like proposal to girlfriend during IPL match is ADORABLE 𝙎𝙥𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 There was no escaping the Lockie Gun tonight 😤 #LockieFerguson #KKR #KKRvRR #AmiKKR #KorboLorboJeetbo #আমিKKR #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/Ed2EPdvrTN — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) October 7, 2021 × One team. One dream 👏🏽#KorboLorboJeetbo #Believe pic.twitter.com/Gw8eJgorEV — Nitish Rana (@NitishRana_27) October 7, 2021 × Mumbai Indians could equal Kolkata's 14 points if they beat Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final league game on Friday. But they would need a winning margin of 171 runs to clinch a playoff place with table toppers Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have made the final four.

IPL 2021: After KKR stake claim for playoffs, skipper Eoin Morgan says, 'We did everything right'

Kolkata Knight Riders produced a clinical performance to beat Rajasthan Royals by a massive 86-run margin and take a huge step towards securing their play-off berth in the Indian Premier League here on Thursday.

With three playoff spots -- Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Royals Challengers Bangalore -- already sealed, KKR consolidated their position for the fourth and final playoff spot, finishing their round-robin engagements with 14 points from 14 games with an impressive net run rate of 0.587.

With 12 points from 13 matches, defending champions Mumbai Indians is the only team still in the playoff race but they will need to register a big win over Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last game on Friday to dislodge KKR from the fourth spot. Effectively, Mumbai need a miracle to make the playoffs ahead of KKR.

Shubman Gill hit a second consecutive fifty as KKR registered the highest score at the venue this season, posting a competitive 171 for four after being put into bat.

Gilll (56 off 44) and Venkatesh Iyer (38 off 35) got KKR's innings to a rollicking start, stitching 79 runs for the opening stand.

Rahul Tripathi (21), Dinesh Karthik (14 not out off 11) and skipper Eoin Morgan (13 not out off 11) also played good hands towards the end to take KKR to past the 170-run mark.

RR had a horrible start to their chase, losing their best batter of the season Yashasvi Jaiswal to Shakib Al Hasan in the third ball of the innings

If that was not enough, skipper Sanju Samson departed in the first delivery of the next over.

Back into the side after recovering from an injury, Lockie Ferguson struck twice in his first over -- first removing Liam Livingstone and then accounting for young Anuj Rawat a ball later.

Mavi then struck twice in the eighth over -- disturbing the timbers of Glenn Phillips and Shivam Dube with his brute pace as RR kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy was not to be left behind as he joined the party in the next over dismissing Chris Morris LBW.

Rahul Tewatia took the attack to the opposition and struck Mavi for three boundaries as RR reached 49 for seven in the 10th over.

With no pressure on his back, Tewatia continued his attacking display and clobbered Chakravarthy over deep square leg boundary for the first six of RR innings.

Tewatia played a 36-ball 44-run cameo but it was not enough as KKR bowled out RR for a meagre 85.

Mavi finished with his best IPL figures of 4/21, while Ferguson (3/18) also shone bright with the ball.

Earlier, riding on Gill and Iyer's impressive start, KKR reached 50 in the eighth over.

Iyer didn't curb his natural instinct and first clobbered Jaydev Unadkat over the deep midwicket boundary and then straight over the bowlers' head two bowler's later to accumulate 14 runs off the 10th over as KKR reached 75 for no loss at the halfway mark.

Inspired by Iyer's power-hitting, Gill then joined the party and welcomed Rahul Tewatia with a maximum.

But Tewatia had the last laugh as he gave his side the important breakthrough when he went through the defence of Iyer between his legs as the left-hander went for an extravagant reverse sweep.

RR skipper then introduced Phillips into the attack but the off-spinner went for 17 runs, albeit he picked up the wicket of Nitish Rana in the process.

Rahul Tripathi was lucky to get a reprieve as he was dropped by Samson when he outside edged a full delivery off Mustafizur Rahman in the last ball of the 13th over

Kolkata Knight Riders produced a clinical performance to beat Rajasthan Royals by a massive 86-run margin and take a huge step towards securing their play-off berth in the Indian Premier League here on Thursday.

Kolkata Knight Riders produced a clinical performance to beat Rajasthan Royals by a massive 86-run margin and take a huge step towards securing their play-off berth in the Indian Premier League here on Thursday. With three playoff spots -- Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Royals Challengers Bangalore -- already sealed, KKR consolidated their position for the fourth and final playoff spot, finishing their round-robin engagements with 14 points from 14 games with an impressive net run rate of 0.587. With 12 points from 13 matches, defending champions Mumbai Indians is the only team still in the playoff race but they will need to register a big win over Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last game on Friday to dislodge KKR from the fourth spot. Effectively, Mumbai need a miracle to make the playoffs ahead of KKR. Shubman Gill hit a second consecutive fifty as KKR registered the highest score at the venue this season, posting a competitive 171 for four after being put into bat. Gilll (56 off 44) and Venkatesh Iyer (38 off 35) got KKR's innings to a rollicking start, stitching 79 runs for the opening stand. Rahul Tripathi (21), Dinesh Karthik (14 not out off 11) and skipper Eoin Morgan (13 not out off 11) also played good hands towards the end to take KKR to past the 170-run mark. RR had a horrible start to their chase, losing their best batter of the season Yashasvi Jaiswal to Shakib Al Hasan in the third ball of the innings If that was not enough, skipper Sanju Samson departed in the first delivery of the next over. Back into the side after recovering from an injury, Lockie Ferguson struck twice in his first over -- first removing Liam Livingstone and then accounting for young Anuj Rawat a ball later. Mavi then struck twice in the eighth over -- disturbing the timbers of Glenn Phillips and Shivam Dube with his brute pace as RR kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy was not to be left behind as he joined the party in the next over dismissing Chris Morris LBW. Rahul Tewatia took the attack to the opposition and struck Mavi for three boundaries as RR reached 49 for seven in the 10th over. With no pressure on his back, Tewatia continued his attacking display and clobbered Chakravarthy over deep square leg boundary for the first six of RR innings. Tewatia played a 36-ball 44-run cameo but it was not enough as KKR bowled out RR for a meagre 85. Mavi finished with his best IPL figures of 4/21, while Ferguson (3/18) also shone bright with the ball. Earlier, riding on Gill and Iyer's impressive start, KKR reached 50 in the eighth over. Iyer didn't curb his natural instinct and first clobbered Jaydev Unadkat over the deep midwicket boundary and then straight over the bowlers' head two bowler's later to accumulate 14 runs off the 10th over as KKR reached 75 for no loss at the halfway mark. Inspired by Iyer's power-hitting, Gill then joined the party and welcomed Rahul Tewatia with a maximum. But Tewatia had the last laugh as he gave his side the important breakthrough when he went through the defence of Iyer between his legs as the left-hander went for an extravagant reverse sweep. RR skipper then introduced Phillips into the attack but the off-spinner went for 17 runs, albeit he picked up the wicket of Nitish Rana in the process. Rahul Tripathi was lucky to get a reprieve as he was dropped by Samson when he outside edged a full delivery off Mustafizur Rahman in the last ball of the 13th over

IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders beat Rajasthan Royals by 86 runs, take giant step towards playoffs

The Match 54 of the IPL 2021 will see the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on the Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Thursday (October 7). The game will be played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.

The pitches at Sharjah have been bowler-friendly and among all the pitches in UAE, the Sharjah pitch has seen pacers doing pretty well. The two teams will be facing each other for the second time in the IPL. The first match was won by Rajasthan Royals at Wankhede Stadium by 6 wickets when the tournament was underway in India.

RR have not performed as expected throughout the season and they are placed at the seventh spot in the points table with just five wins in 13 games they have played so far. However, UAE has turned fate for Kolkata Knight Riders but it still isn’t enough for them to qualify.&nbsp;

<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kkr-vs-rr-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-rajasthan-royals-match-418830">KKR vs RR, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals match?</a></o:p>

While Rajasthan Royals would be looking for a win to end the group matches on a high note but they can spoil KKR’s chances of a top-four finish. However, this is a must-win game for KKR who if lose will be possibly out of playoffs race. They have won six out of 13 games played with four of the wins coming in UAE-leg.&nbsp; <o:p></o:p>

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:<o:p></o:p>

Where is the IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals taking place? <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.<o:p></o:p>

What time does the IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals begin? <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals begins at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals? <o:p></o:p>

The IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3, and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between KKR&nbsp;vs RR&nbsp;will be available on Hotstar.<o:p></o:p>

The Match 54 of the IPL 2021 will see the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on the Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Thursday (October 7).

The Match 54 of the IPL 2021 will see the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on the Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Thursday (October 7). The game will be played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. The pitches at Sharjah have been bowler-friendly and among all the pitches in UAE, the Sharjah pitch has seen pacers doing pretty well. The two teams will be facing each other for the second time in the IPL. The first match was won by Rajasthan Royals at Wankhede Stadium by 6 wickets when the tournament was underway in India. RR have not performed as expected throughout the season and they are placed at the seventh spot in the points table with just five wins in 13 games they have played so far. However, UAE has turned fate for Kolkata Knight Riders but it still isn’t enough for them to qualify. ALSO READ: KKR vs RR, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals match? While Rajasthan Royals would be looking for a win to end the group matches on a high note but they can spoil KKR’s chances of a top-four finish. However, this is a must-win game for KKR who if lose will be possibly out of playoffs race. They have won six out of 13 games played with four of the wins coming in UAE-leg. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals taking place? The IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. What time does the IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals begin? The IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals begins at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday. Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals? The IPL 2021 match between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3, and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between KKR vs RR will be available on Hotstar.

IPL 2021, KKR vs RR, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals?

Match 54 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time winners Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lock horns with the one-time champions Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Thursday evening (October 7).&nbsp;

The clash is of great significance for the KKR line-up, who already have one foot in the last-four but will like to end all hopes of Mumbai Indians (MI) -- their closest rival for the fourth position -- with a thumping win over RR. Talking about the form of both sides, RR are coming into this clash with a heavy defeat at the hands of MI, by 8 wickets and 70 balls to spare. Samson &amp; Co. have once again looked good in patches this season but have largely remained inconsistent, to be very much out of the playoffs race.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-pbks-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-punjab-kings-match-418689">CSK vs PBKS, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings match?</a>

RR have a slim chance to make it to the last four. For that, they need to thrash KKR by 125 runs and hope that the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) slam MI by 40, or more, runs in the last league stage encounter. On the other hand, KKR still have fate in their own hands, along with a much-better net-run rate as compared to MI, and should make it to the last four.

The equation is simple for them: win versus RR and proceed further. After a win, KKR will be very much be through as MI are far behind in NRR.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<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">EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

Match prediction for KKR vs RR tie: The Sharjah surface has been the toughest of the lot in the UAE leg. Who would have thought that once regarded as the 'graveyard for bowlers' track would churn out plenty of low-scoring encounters in the current edition. Expect pacers to get much assistance in the slow and low conditions on offer. Chasing can be dicey in Sharjah but KKR haven't lost a single game while batting second in the UAE leg. Another 130-135-plus scoring affair with KKR to emerge on top?

Match 54 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time winners Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lock horns with the one-time champions Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Thursday evening (October 7).

Match 54 of the IPL 2021 edition will see the two-time winners Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lock horns with the one-time champions Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah on Thursday evening (October 7). The clash is of great significance for the KKR line-up, who already have one foot in the last-four but will like to end all hopes of Mumbai Indians (MI) -- their closest rival for the fourth position -- with a thumping win over RR. Talking about the form of both sides, RR are coming into this clash with a heavy defeat at the hands of MI, by 8 wickets and 70 balls to spare. Samson & Co. have once again looked good in patches this season but have largely remained inconsistent, to be very much out of the playoffs race. ALSO READ | CSK vs PBKS, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings match? RR have a slim chance to make it to the last four. For that, they need to thrash KKR by 125 runs and hope that the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) slam MI by 40, or more, runs in the last league stage encounter. On the other hand, KKR still have fate in their own hands, along with a much-better net-run rate as compared to MI, and should make it to the last four. The equation is simple for them: win versus RR and proceed further. After a win, KKR will be very much be through as MI are far behind in NRR. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs Match prediction for KKR vs RR tie: The Sharjah surface has been the toughest of the lot in the UAE leg. Who would have thought that once regarded as the 'graveyard for bowlers' track would churn out plenty of low-scoring encounters in the current edition. Expect pacers to get much assistance in the slow and low conditions on offer. Chasing can be dicey in Sharjah but KKR haven't lost a single game while batting second in the UAE leg. Another 130-135-plus scoring affair with KKR to emerge on top?

KKR vs RR, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals match?

On Tuesday (October 5), the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) thrashed Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 8 wickets, and 70 balls to spare, to keep their IPL 2021 playoffs hopes alive. With Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) already occupying three out of the four playoffs spot, the race is now between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and MI to book the remaining slot.

While RR and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are still mathematically in contention to seal the fourth spot, there chances are negligible. Here's an explainer on how MI or KKR can seal the fourth spot:

Eoin Morgan-led KKR: The two-time winners have revamped in style in the UAE leg and now have 6 wins in 13 games, with an impressive net-run rate of +0.294. The biggest plus for KKR is that they still have fate in their own hands and the equation is pretty simple for them; one the last game and qualify. However, they will like to demolish RR to further bolster their chances and give no room to MI on account of net run-rate.&nbsp;On the other hand, a defeat can make things tough for Kolkata as Mumbai could topple them by winning their final game of the league campaign; i.e. versus already-eliminated and bottom-lying Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

What is interesting to note that even if KKR lose to RR, they can still make the playoffs if MI are beaten by SRH or in case Mumbai win versus SRH but only by a narrow margin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-srh-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-royal-challengers-bangalore-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-match-418490">RCB vs SRH, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match?</a>

Rohit's charged-up MI:&nbsp;With equal wins and loss, just like KKR, MI are now at the 5th spot in the points table. However, they still have an inferior net-run rate of -0.048 as compared to Kolkata. If KKR lose to RR and MI beat SRH, the five-time winners will proceed ahead but they will like to thrash SRH, as they mauled RR on Tuesday evening; to march ahead on the basis of net-run rate.

On the other hand, if KKR emerge on top of RR, MI's hopes would be all but over. Again, Rohit &amp; Co. will remain alive but only mathematically in such a case as they will have to beat SRH in an even more dominant way, like they did versus Rajasthan, to go through. Even if KKR lose to RR, their margin of defeat will be closely monitored by the MI franchise.

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For the RR and PBKS fans, their teams are also still alive in the playoffs race but their chances remain very slim. Both sides have one more game in hand, versus KKR and CSK respectively, and will have to beat them by a huge margin and also hope for other results to favour them to grab the fourth spot. As of now, that looks highly unlikely.

IPL 2021 playoffs will commence from October 10&nbsp;(Sunday) whereas the final will be played on October 15.

On Tuesday (October 5), the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) thrashed Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 8 wickets, and 70 balls to spare, to keep their IPL 2021 playoffs hopes alive.

On Tuesday (October 5), the defending champions and five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) thrashed Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 8 wickets, and 70 balls to spare, to keep their IPL 2021 playoffs hopes alive. With Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) already occupying three out of the four playoffs spot, the race is now between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and MI to book the remaining slot. While RR and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are still mathematically in contention to seal the fourth spot, there chances are negligible. Here's an explainer on how MI or KKR can seal the fourth spot: Eoin Morgan-led KKR: The two-time winners have revamped in style in the UAE leg and now have 6 wins in 13 games, with an impressive net-run rate of +0.294. The biggest plus for KKR is that they still have fate in their own hands and the equation is pretty simple for them; one the last game and qualify. However, they will like to demolish RR to further bolster their chances and give no room to MI on account of net run-rate. On the other hand, a defeat can make things tough for Kolkata as Mumbai could topple them by winning their final game of the league campaign; i.e. versus already-eliminated and bottom-lying Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). What is interesting to note that even if KKR lose to RR, they can still make the playoffs if MI are beaten by SRH or in case Mumbai win versus SRH but only by a narrow margin. ALSO READ | RCB vs SRH, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match? Rohit's charged-up MI: With equal wins and loss, just like KKR, MI are now at the 5th spot in the points table. However, they still have an inferior net-run rate of -0.048 as compared to Kolkata. If KKR lose to RR and MI beat SRH, the five-time winners will proceed ahead but they will like to thrash SRH, as they mauled RR on Tuesday evening; to march ahead on the basis of net-run rate. On the other hand, if KKR emerge on top of RR, MI's hopes would be all but over. Again, Rohit & Co. will remain alive but only mathematically in such a case as they will have to beat SRH in an even more dominant way, like they did versus Rajasthan, to go through. Even if KKR lose to RR, their margin of defeat will be closely monitored by the MI franchise. ALSO READ | New IPL teams likely to be sold for INR 30-35 billion, mega auction can take place in December: Punjab Kings co-owner For the RR and PBKS fans, their teams are also still alive in the playoffs race but their chances remain very slim. Both sides have one more game in hand, versus KKR and CSK respectively, and will have to beat them by a huge margin and also hope for other results to favour them to grab the fourth spot. As of now, that looks highly unlikely. IPL 2021 playoffs will commence from October 10 (Sunday) whereas the final will be played on October 15.

EXPLAINED: As MI crush RR, here's how Mumbai or KKR can grab the 4th spot in IPL 2021 playoffs

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will lock horns with Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a must-win encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Tuesday (October 05). Both teams are still in the hunt for a spot in the playoffs, however, Mumbai Indians are not guaranteed of qualification even if they win their remaining two matches.

Mumbai Indians are currently placed seventh on the points table with 10 points from 12 matches and the worst net run rate among all four teams in the fray to seal the final fourth spot in the playoffs. MI will have to beat Rajasthan on Tuesday to ensure they remain alive in the competition as a defeat will confirm their exit.

MI might not still make it even if they win their remaining two matches due to their inferior net run rate, however, Rohit &amp; Co. will be hoping to finish on a high with two victories in a row and expect the other results to go in their favour. On the other hand, Rajasthan Royals have their fate in their own hands.

They are currently placed sixth with ten points from 12 matches and have to win both their matches to qualify for the playoffs without needing a favour from any other team. They face their direct-rivals MI and KKR in their next two games.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-playoffs-qualification-scenario-explained-can-mumbai-indians-punjab-kings-still-qualify-418113">IPL 2021 playoffs qualification scenario explained: Can Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings still qualify?</a>

Samson &amp; Co. had pulled off a stunning seven-wicket win against MS Dhoni's CSK in their last game to keep their playoffs hopes alive and will be riding high on confidence against MI when the two teams square off in Sharjah on Tuesday. Since 2018, RR have managed five wins in just seven meetings against Mumbai Indians and will be backing themselves to make it six wins tonight.

RR vs MI, IPL 2021 today match prediction: Rajasthan Royals earned a thumping&nbsp;seven-wicket win over CSK in their last game, chasing down the target of 190 runs with as many as 15 balls to spare. Despite missing a number of stars, RR youngsters have ensured the Samson-led side has punched above their weight in UAE. They seem favourites against a struggling Mumbai Indians side and should come out on top on Tuesday.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will lock horns with Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a must-win encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Tuesday (October 05).

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will lock horns with Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a must-win encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Tuesday (October 05). Both teams are still in the hunt for a spot in the playoffs, however, Mumbai Indians are not guaranteed of qualification even if they win their remaining two matches. Mumbai Indians are currently placed seventh on the points table with 10 points from 12 matches and the worst net run rate among all four teams in the fray to seal the final fourth spot in the playoffs. MI will have to beat Rajasthan on Tuesday to ensure they remain alive in the competition as a defeat will confirm their exit. MI might not still make it even if they win their remaining two matches due to their inferior net run rate, however, Rohit & Co. will be hoping to finish on a high with two victories in a row and expect the other results to go in their favour. On the other hand, Rajasthan Royals have their fate in their own hands. They are currently placed sixth with ten points from 12 matches and have to win both their matches to qualify for the playoffs without needing a favour from any other team. They face their direct-rivals MI and KKR in their next two games. Also Read: IPL 2021 playoffs qualification scenario explained: Can Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings still qualify? Samson & Co. had pulled off a stunning seven-wicket win against MS Dhoni's CSK in their last game to keep their playoffs hopes alive and will be riding high on confidence against MI when the two teams square off in Sharjah on Tuesday. Since 2018, RR have managed five wins in just seven meetings against Mumbai Indians and will be backing themselves to make it six wins tonight. RR vs MI, IPL 2021 today match prediction: Rajasthan Royals earned a thumping seven-wicket win over CSK in their last game, chasing down the target of 190 runs with as many as 15 balls to spare. Despite missing a number of stars, RR youngsters have ensured the Samson-led side has punched above their weight in UAE. They seem favourites against a struggling Mumbai Indians side and should come out on top on Tuesday.

RR vs MI, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians match?

Pacers Nathan Coulter-Nile and James Neesham spit fire in their fascinating spells on a slow wicket as Mumbai Indians beat Rajasthan Royals by eight wickets in their crucial Indian Premier League match here on Tuesday.

MI restricted Royals to a below-par 90 for nine and chased down the target with 11.4 overs to spare. Coulter-Nile (4/14) took four wickets while Neesham (3/12) scalped three batsmen.

Also Read:&nbsp;<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">August 15 again? MS Dhoni drops a bomb on his IPL future, says you can bid me farewell in Chennai</a>

Opener Evin Lewis scored 24 while David Miller was the next best for the Royals with 15 runs in his kitty for Royals. 
Ishan Kishan (50 not out) and Hardik Pandya (5) took the side past the finish line after Rohit Sharma (22) and Suryakumar Yadav's (13) early dismissal in MI's chase.

Brief Scores:

Rajasthan Royals: 90 for 9 in 20 overs. (E Lewis 24, D Miller 15; N Coulter-Nile 4/14, J Neesham 3/12).

Mumbai Indians: 94 for 2 in 8.2 overs. (I Kishan 50 not out, R Sharma 22; M Rahman 1/32).

Pacers Nathan Coulter-Nile and James Neesham spit fire in their fascinating spells on a slow wicket as Mumbai Indians beat Rajasthan Royals by eight wickets in their crucial Indian Premier League match here on Tuesday.

Pacers Nathan Coulter-Nile and James Neesham spit fire in their fascinating spells on a slow wicket as Mumbai Indians beat Rajasthan Royals by eight wickets in their crucial Indian Premier League match here on Tuesday. MI restricted Royals to a below-par 90 for nine and chased down the target with 11.4 overs to spare. Coulter-Nile (4/14) took four wickets while Neesham (3/12) scalped three batsmen. Also Read: August 15 again? MS Dhoni drops a bomb on his IPL future, says you can bid me farewell in Chennai Opener Evin Lewis scored 24 while David Miller was the next best for the Royals with 15 runs in his kitty for Royals. Ishan Kishan (50 not out) and Hardik Pandya (5) took the side past the finish line after Rohit Sharma (22) and Suryakumar Yadav's (13) early dismissal in MI's chase. Brief Scores: Rajasthan Royals: 90 for 9 in 20 overs. (E Lewis 24, D Miller 15; N Coulter-Nile 4/14, J Neesham 3/12). Mumbai Indians: 94 for 2 in 8.2 overs. (I Kishan 50 not out, R Sharma 22; M Rahman 1/32).

IPL 2021: Mumbai Indians beat Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets to keep playoffs hopes alive

Match 51 of the IPL 2021 edition will see two struggling sides in the form of defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the one-time winners Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Tuesday evening (October 05). For the unversed, both sides remain alive in the playoffs race but are closer to the elimination door as their chances remain slim as ever.

For MI, they need to win their remaining two encounters -- versus RR and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) -- to improve their net run-rate and also hope for RR to do them a favour by beating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are most likely to walk into the playoffs as the fourth-ranked side. On the other hand, RR need to win both their games at any cost -- versus MI and KKR. If they lose any of the two games, they will have to depend upon other results to sneak into the last four.

As RR have competed very well versus MI and currently occupy a spot above the seventh-ranked Rohit &amp; Co., they will take some confidence before heading into the tie. However, their inconsistency will be put to test. It seems likely that viewers will witness a very close match as the playoffs race continues to remain complex.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-playoffs-qualification-scenario-explained-can-mumbai-indians-punjab-kings-still-qualify-418113">IPL 2021 playoffs qualification scenario explained: Can Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings still qualify?</a>

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:&nbsp;

Where is the IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians taking place?

The IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians&nbsp;will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.

What time does the IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians begin?

The IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians begins at 7:30 PM IST on Tuesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rofl-mi-skipper-rohit-sharma-hilariously-pulls-off-a-prank-on-wife-ritika-sajdeh-418187">Watch: ROFL! MI skipper Rohit Sharma hilariously pulls off a prank on wife Ritika Sajdeh</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians?

The IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between PBKS vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

Match 51 of the IPL 2021 edition will see two struggling sides in the form of defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the one-time winners Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Tuesday evening (October 05).

Match 51 of the IPL 2021 edition will see two struggling sides in the form of defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) face the one-time winners Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Tuesday evening (October 05). For the unversed, both sides remain alive in the playoffs race but are closer to the elimination door as their chances remain slim as ever. For MI, they need to win their remaining two encounters -- versus RR and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) -- to improve their net run-rate and also hope for RR to do them a favour by beating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are most likely to walk into the playoffs as the fourth-ranked side. On the other hand, RR need to win both their games at any cost -- versus MI and KKR. If they lose any of the two games, they will have to depend upon other results to sneak into the last four. As RR have competed very well versus MI and currently occupy a spot above the seventh-ranked Rohit & Co., they will take some confidence before heading into the tie. However, their inconsistency will be put to test. It seems likely that viewers will witness a very close match as the playoffs race continues to remain complex. ALSO READ | IPL 2021 playoffs qualification scenario explained: Can Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings still qualify? Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians taking place? The IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. What time does the IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians begin? The IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians begins at 7:30 PM IST on Tuesday. ALSO READ | Watch: ROFL! MI skipper Rohit Sharma hilariously pulls off a prank on wife Ritika Sajdeh Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians? The IPL 2021 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between PBKS vs RCB will be available on Hotstar.

IPL 2021, RR vs MI, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians?

IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as 50 matches have been done and dusted. Before we enter the playoffs stage, there are a few riveting encounters left in the group stages as the defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will face the one-time winners Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 51 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.

Both MI and RR have been far from impressive this season. While RR have shown some brilliance from time to time, they are at the sixth position with 5 wins from 12 encounters. MI also have the same number of wins and losses but find themselves languishing on the seventh spot due to a poor net run-rate. For the unversed, both sides are alive in the playoffs race but really need to pull up their socks and attain some big wins to move ahead.

For RR, they need to win both their games. MI need to emerge on top in the remaining games and also hope for RR to beat Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are favourites to take the vacant fourth-playoffs spot at the moment.

Ahead of the clash, here's a look at the head-to-head, trivia, stats and squads for both sides:

Head-to-head

In 23 games, MI lead RR 12-11 as both sides have been involved in some humdingers in the past. Hence, there isn't much to separate between both teams as match 51 promises to be an enthralling affair.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rr-vs-mi-ipl-2021-prediction-today-who-will-win-rajasthan-royals-vs-mumbai-indians-match-418309">RR vs MI, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians match?</a>

Stats

One of the main reasons for MI's failures this season has been their scoring rate against spinners in the UAE leg. It stands at 6.11 rpo. They are only better than Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), who have fared much worse with a run-rate of 6.05

Trivia

This will be the first time that both sides will meet at Sharjah. They two teams have only played at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi whenever they met in the UAE in IPL history. In UAE, both sides met twice, with a 1-1 scoreline.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rr-vs-mi-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-rajasthan-royals-vs-mumbai-indians-418252">IPL 2021, RR vs MI, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians?</a>

Squads:

Rajasthan Royals: Evin Lewis, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson(w/c), Shivam Dube, Glenn Phillips, David Miller, Rahul Tewatia, Akash Singh, Mayank Markande, Mustafizur Rahman, Chetan Sakariya, Jaydev Unadkat, Chris Morris, Manan Vohra, Shreyas Gopal, Liam Livingstone, Tabraiz Shamsi, KC Cariappa, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Riyan Parag, Anuj Rawat, Kartik Tyagi, Gerald Coetzee, Kuldip Yadav

Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Saurabh Tiwary, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jayant Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, James Neesham, Anukul Roy, Ishan Kishan, Chris Lynn, Adam Milne, Aditya Tare, Piyush Chawla, Dhawal Kulkarni, Roosh Kalaria, Anmolpreet Singh, Rahul Chahar, Marco Jansen, Yudhvir Singh

IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as 50 matches have been done and dusted. Before we enter the playoffs stage, there are a few riveting encounters left in the group stages as the defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will face the one-time winners Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 51 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah.

IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as 50 matches have been done and dusted. Before we enter the playoffs stage, there are a few riveting encounters left in the group stages as the defending champions Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) will face the one-time winners Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 51 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah. Both MI and RR have been far from impressive this season. While RR have shown some brilliance from time to time, they are at the sixth position with 5 wins from 12 encounters. MI also have the same number of wins and losses but find themselves languishing on the seventh spot due to a poor net run-rate. For the unversed, both sides are alive in the playoffs race but really need to pull up their socks and attain some big wins to move ahead. For RR, they need to win both their games. MI need to emerge on top in the remaining games and also hope for RR to beat Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are favourites to take the vacant fourth-playoffs spot at the moment. Ahead of the clash, here's a look at the head-to-head, trivia, stats and squads for both sides: Head-to-head In 23 games, MI lead RR 12-11 as both sides have been involved in some humdingers in the past. Hence, there isn't much to separate between both teams as match 51 promises to be an enthralling affair. ALSO READ | RR vs MI, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians match? Stats One of the main reasons for MI's failures this season has been their scoring rate against spinners in the UAE leg. It stands at 6.11 rpo. They are only better than Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), who have fared much worse with a run-rate of 6.05 Trivia This will be the first time that both sides will meet at Sharjah. They two teams have only played at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi whenever they met in the UAE in IPL history. In UAE, both sides met twice, with a 1-1 scoreline. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, RR vs MI, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians? Squads: Rajasthan Royals: Evin Lewis, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson(w/c), Shivam Dube, Glenn Phillips, David Miller, Rahul Tewatia, Akash Singh, Mayank Markande, Mustafizur Rahman, Chetan Sakariya, Jaydev Unadkat, Chris Morris, Manan Vohra, Shreyas Gopal, Liam Livingstone, Tabraiz Shamsi, KC Cariappa, Mahipal Lomror, Oshane Thomas, Riyan Parag, Anuj Rawat, Kartik Tyagi, Gerald Coetzee, Kuldip Yadav Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Saurabh Tiwary, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jayant Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, James Neesham, Anukul Roy, Ishan Kishan, Chris Lynn, Adam Milne, Aditya Tare, Piyush Chawla, Dhawal Kulkarni, Roosh Kalaria, Anmolpreet Singh, Rahul Chahar, Marco Jansen, Yudhvir Singh

IPL 2021: MI vs RR- Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) became the third team to secure a spot in the IPL 2021 playoffs with a 6-run win against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Sunday (October 03). RCB now have 16 points from 12 matches so far this season and have made it to their second successive playoffs in two years. With the defeat, PBKS' hopes of finishing in the playoffs recieved a major jolt but they are still in the race.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) took a step closer towards securing a spot in the playoffs this year as Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad comprehensively by six wickets on Sunday. KKR are currently placed fourth on the points table with 12 points from 13 matches so far this season and are favourites to bag the last remaining spot in the playoffs this season.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were the first team to reach the playoffs after securing 18 points in just 12 matches. Delhi Capitals became the next side to secure a berth in the top four before RCB became the third team to reach the playoffs on Sunday. With the season heading towards its business end, the race for playoffs has heated up.

There are four teams in the fray for the final spot in the playoffs ahead of Tuesday's clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians. Here is a look at what the four teams need to do to qualify for IPL 2021 playoffs -&nbsp;

1) Kolkata Knight Riders - rank - 4th, points - 12&nbsp;

Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday to enhance their chances of making it to the playoffs. They are now the favourites to clinch the remaining one spot in the top four. KKR have 12 points from 13 matches with a net run rate of +0.294. KKR need to win their last final league game of the season against Rajasthan Royals to qualify for the playoffs. A loss against RR might prove fatal to their chances of making it to the knockout stages.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-rishabh-pant-run-sunil-gavaskar-feels-unfair-to-blame-r-ashwin-after-ugly-spat-with-eoin-morgan-418072">'Why did Rishabh Pant run?': Sunil Gavaskar feels unfair to blame R Ashwin after ugly spat with Eoin Morgan</a>

2)&nbsp;Rajasthan Royals - rank 6th, points - 10

Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals pulled off a stunning victory against CSK to remain alive in the race for playoffs. They are now one of the strong contenders to finish in the top four with two matches in hand. RR have their fate in their own hands as they are lined up to face KKR and Mumbai Indians in their remaining two matches. If they manage to win both, they will make it to the playoffs. In case they lose one out of the two matches, their fate will depend on the results of other teams. If RR lose both their matches, they will stand eliminated.

3) Mumbai Indians - rank 7th, points - 10&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians are currently the least favourites to reach the playoffs but they can spring a surprise. Rohit Sharma's men have ten points from 12 matches so far and have two games in hands to make it to the next stage. They will have to win both their remaining matches by big margins to stand a chance of reaching the top four as they have the worst net run rate of -0.453 among all four teams in contention for the final spot. MI can qualify with one win in their next two games if PBKS and RR lose all their remaining matches.

4) Punjab Kings - rank 5th, points - 10&nbsp;

Punjab Kings' chances of making it to the playoffs were dealt with a huge blow on Sunday after their 6-run defeat at the hands of RCB. PBKS have bleak chances of making it to the next round. They will be up against table-toppers CSK in their final league game of the season and face an uphill task to get to 12 points to stand a chance of making it to the next round. A defeat will confirm PBKS' exit from the competition, however, a victory might keep them in the hunt if some other results go in their favour.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pandora-papers-leak-how-sachin-tendulkar-his-family-members-are-linked-to-report-attorney-says-investment-is-legitimate-418078">Pandora papers leak: How Sachin Tendulkar, his family members are linked to report; attorney says 'investment is legitimate'</a>

Can Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings qualify for IPL 2021 playoffs?

Both Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings are currently in a tricky situation. Mumbai have the worst net run rate among all four teams and their best bet to qualify will be to win their remaining two matches by big margins. On the other hand, Punjab Kings can qualify if they beat CSK by a huge margin and go ahead of KKR and other teams who will finish on 12 points in terms of the net run rate. With MI facing RR in their next game, only two teams can reach 14 points and it remains to be seen who will bag the fourth spot in the playoffs this season.

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) became the third team to secure a spot in the IPL 2021 playoffs with a 6-run win against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Sunday (October 03).

Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) became the third team to secure a spot in the IPL 2021 playoffs with a 6-run win against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Sunday (October 03). RCB now have 16 points from 12 matches so far this season and have made it to their second successive playoffs in two years. With the defeat, PBKS' hopes of finishing in the playoffs recieved a major jolt but they are still in the race. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) took a step closer towards securing a spot in the playoffs this year as Eoin Morgan & Co. defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad comprehensively by six wickets on Sunday. KKR are currently placed fourth on the points table with 12 points from 13 matches so far this season and are favourites to bag the last remaining spot in the playoffs this season. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were the first team to reach the playoffs after securing 18 points in just 12 matches. Delhi Capitals became the next side to secure a berth in the top four before RCB became the third team to reach the playoffs on Sunday. With the season heading towards its business end, the race for playoffs has heated up. There are four teams in the fray for the final spot in the playoffs ahead of Tuesday's clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians. Here is a look at what the four teams need to do to qualify for IPL 2021 playoffs - 1) Kolkata Knight Riders - rank - 4th, points - 12 Eoin Morgan & Co. defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday to enhance their chances of making it to the playoffs. They are now the favourites to clinch the remaining one spot in the top four. KKR have 12 points from 13 matches with a net run rate of +0.294. KKR need to win their last final league game of the season against Rajasthan Royals to qualify for the playoffs. A loss against RR might prove fatal to their chances of making it to the knockout stages. Also Read: 'Why did Rishabh Pant run?': Sunil Gavaskar feels unfair to blame R Ashwin after ugly spat with Eoin Morgan 2) Rajasthan Royals - rank 6th, points - 10 Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals pulled off a stunning victory against CSK to remain alive in the race for playoffs. They are now one of the strong contenders to finish in the top four with two matches in hand. RR have their fate in their own hands as they are lined up to face KKR and Mumbai Indians in their remaining two matches. If they manage to win both, they will make it to the playoffs. In case they lose one out of the two matches, their fate will depend on the results of other teams. If RR lose both their matches, they will stand eliminated. 3) Mumbai Indians - rank 7th, points - 10 Mumbai Indians are currently the least favourites to reach the playoffs but they can spring a surprise. Rohit Sharma's men have ten points from 12 matches so far and have two games in hands to make it to the next stage. They will have to win both their remaining matches by big margins to stand a chance of reaching the top four as they have the worst net run rate of -0.453 among all four teams in contention for the final spot. MI can qualify with one win in their next two games if PBKS and RR lose all their remaining matches. 4) Punjab Kings - rank 5th, points - 10 Punjab Kings' chances of making it to the playoffs were dealt with a huge blow on Sunday after their 6-run defeat at the hands of RCB. PBKS have bleak chances of making it to the next round. They will be up against table-toppers CSK in their final league game of the season and face an uphill task to get to 12 points to stand a chance of making it to the next round. A defeat will confirm PBKS' exit from the competition, however, a victory might keep them in the hunt if some other results go in their favour. Also Read: Pandora papers leak: How Sachin Tendulkar, his family members are linked to report; attorney says 'investment is legitimate' Can Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings qualify for IPL 2021 playoffs? Both Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings are currently in a tricky situation. Mumbai have the worst net run rate among all four teams and their best bet to qualify will be to win their remaining two matches by big margins. On the other hand, Punjab Kings can qualify if they beat CSK by a huge margin and go ahead of KKR and other teams who will finish on 12 points in terms of the net run rate. With MI facing RR in their next game, only two teams can reach 14 points and it remains to be seen who will bag the fourth spot in the playoffs this season.

IPL 2021 playoffs qualification scenario explained: Can Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings still qualify?

MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the first team to secure a spot in the playoffs of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season before Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) also confirmed their berth in the top four. CSK and DC are the only two teams to have ensured qualification in the knockout stages of IPL 2021 so far with as many as five teams in the fray to secure the remaining two spots in the top four.

While CSK look strong to finish in the top two this year after missing out on a playoffs berth last season, their comprehensive seven-wicket defeat at the hands of Rajasthan Royals on Saturday (October 02) has left the tournament wide open. With nine matches remaining in the tournament, there are five teams who can still make it to the next round.

Defending champions Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders are the five teams still in contention to make it to the IPL 2021 playoffs. Here is a look at what the five teams need to reach the next stage of the competition this year.

1) Royal Challengers Bangalore - current rank - 3rd, points - 14

Virat Kohli's RCB are the favourites to become the third team to make it to the playoffs this season. RCB currently sit at the third spot on the points table with 14 points from eleven matches and are one win away from securing a spot in the playoffs. RCB have three matches in their hands and need to just win one of those to secure a top-four berth. Even if they lose all three of their remaining matches, RCB might make it to the next round if other teams who also finish on 14 points, can't topple them on net run rate.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruturaj-gaikwad-is-in-kl-rahul-category-brian-lara-hails-csk-opener-after-magnificent-ton-against-rajasthan-royals-417862">Ruturaj Gaikwad is in KL Rahul category: Brian Lara hails CSK opener after magnificent ton against Rajasthan Royals</a>

2) Kolkata Knight Riders - current rank - 4th, points - 10

Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. had endured a terrible campaign in the first leg of IPL 2021 in India where they could only manage two wins in their first seven games of the season. However, KKR sparked a turnaround in UAE with three wins in their first four games before slipping to a defeat against Punjab Kings in their last game. The loss against PBKS handed a blow to their playoffs hopes but KKR are still in the race to finish in the top four. KKR currently have ten points from 12 matches and need to win their remaining two matches to qualify based on their superior net run rate. They might qualify even if they manage to win just one game out of the remaining two but they will need a favour from other teams in that scenario. KKR will be out if they lose both their remaining matches.

3) Punjab Kings - current rank - 5th, points - 10

Punjab Kings defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by five wickets in their last game to remain alive in the race for playoffs. They currently sit on the fifth spot on the points table with two matches in their hands. They need to win both their remaining games to make it to the playoffs this season. They will need a big win if they lose one of their two matches to ensure they can convert their current negative net run rate into a positive one. However, their fate will lie in the hands of other teams if they lose even one of their two matches.

4) Mumbai Indians - current rank - 7th, points - 10

Mumbai Indians were all but out of the race for playoffs after their 4-wicket loss against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. However, they can still make it to the next round. Mumbai Indians have the lowest net run rate of -0.453 among all five teams in contention. They need to win both their remaining matches to qualify for the playoffs. They might not make it to the next round with just one win due to their inferior net run rate. They will be out if they lose both their matches.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-our-best-t20-bowler-former-chief-selector-msk-prasad-names-spinner-who-deserved-spot-in-indias-t20-wc-squad-417887">Former chief selector MSK Prasad names spinner who deserved spot in India's T20 WC squad</a>

5) Rajasthan Royals&nbsp;- current rank - 6th, points - 10

Another team with ten points and a negative net run rate. Rajasthan Royals pulled off a stunning seven-wicket win against table-toppers CSK on Saturday to keep their playoffs hopes alive and leave the race for the top four wide open. Rajasthan Royals will need to win their remaining two matches and hope PBKS lose at least one of their remaining two matches to confirm their berth in the top four. RR can qualify even with one win if both MI and PBKs lose their remaining to matches - which might be too much to ask for. RR will be ousted if they lose both games.

&nbsp;

MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the first team to secure a spot in the playoffs of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season before Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) also confirmed their berth in the top four.

MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the first team to secure a spot in the playoffs of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season before Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) also confirmed their berth in the top four. CSK and DC are the only two teams to have ensured qualification in the knockout stages of IPL 2021 so far with as many as five teams in the fray to secure the remaining two spots in the top four. While CSK look strong to finish in the top two this year after missing out on a playoffs berth last season, their comprehensive seven-wicket defeat at the hands of Rajasthan Royals on Saturday (October 02) has left the tournament wide open. With nine matches remaining in the tournament, there are five teams who can still make it to the next round. Defending champions Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders are the five teams still in contention to make it to the IPL 2021 playoffs. Here is a look at what the five teams need to reach the next stage of the competition this year. 1) Royal Challengers Bangalore - current rank - 3rd, points - 14 Virat Kohli's RCB are the favourites to become the third team to make it to the playoffs this season. RCB currently sit at the third spot on the points table with 14 points from eleven matches and are one win away from securing a spot in the playoffs. RCB have three matches in their hands and need to just win one of those to secure a top-four berth. Even if they lose all three of their remaining matches, RCB might make it to the next round if other teams who also finish on 14 points, can't topple them on net run rate. Also Read: Ruturaj Gaikwad is in KL Rahul category: Brian Lara hails CSK opener after magnificent ton against Rajasthan Royals 2) Kolkata Knight Riders - current rank - 4th, points - 10 Eoin Morgan & Co. had endured a terrible campaign in the first leg of IPL 2021 in India where they could only manage two wins in their first seven games of the season. However, KKR sparked a turnaround in UAE with three wins in their first four games before slipping to a defeat against Punjab Kings in their last game. The loss against PBKS handed a blow to their playoffs hopes but KKR are still in the race to finish in the top four. KKR currently have ten points from 12 matches and need to win their remaining two matches to qualify based on their superior net run rate. They might qualify even if they manage to win just one game out of the remaining two but they will need a favour from other teams in that scenario. KKR will be out if they lose both their remaining matches. 3) Punjab Kings - current rank - 5th, points - 10 Punjab Kings defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by five wickets in their last game to remain alive in the race for playoffs. They currently sit on the fifth spot on the points table with two matches in their hands. They need to win both their remaining games to make it to the playoffs this season. They will need a big win if they lose one of their two matches to ensure they can convert their current negative net run rate into a positive one. However, their fate will lie in the hands of other teams if they lose even one of their two matches. 4) Mumbai Indians - current rank - 7th, points - 10 Mumbai Indians were all but out of the race for playoffs after their 4-wicket loss against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. However, they can still make it to the next round. Mumbai Indians have the lowest net run rate of -0.453 among all five teams in contention. They need to win both their remaining matches to qualify for the playoffs. They might not make it to the next round with just one win due to their inferior net run rate. They will be out if they lose both their matches. Also Read: Former chief selector MSK Prasad names spinner who deserved spot in India's T20 WC squad 5) Rajasthan Royals - current rank - 6th, points - 10 Another team with ten points and a negative net run rate. Rajasthan Royals pulled off a stunning seven-wicket win against table-toppers CSK on Saturday to keep their playoffs hopes alive and leave the race for the top four wide open. Rajasthan Royals will need to win their remaining two matches and hope PBKS lose at least one of their remaining two matches to confirm their berth in the top four. RR can qualify even with one win if both MI and PBKs lose their remaining to matches - which might be too much to ask for. RR will be ousted if they lose both games.

Explainer: 5 teams, 2 spots - What RCB, MI, KKR, PBKS and RR need to qualify for IPL 2021 playoffs

Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson was upbeat as his side managed to keep the playoffs hope alive after an outstanding performance against the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rajasthan-royals-beat-chennai-super-kings-by-seven-wickets-417756">defeating them by seven wickets</a> in their Indian Premier League 2021 match at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday (October 2).&nbsp;

Samson praised the team, especially the openers as RR chased down an imposing target of 190, he said, "We just wanted to back ourselves. I am happy I guessed it (pitch getting better in the second innings) right. They (openers) have been giving good starts, they almost finished off the game in the powerplay. They were going for the kill."

However, he didn't shy away from praising CSK opening batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad. Ruturaj was on 95 when he got the strike on the fifth ball of the last over. The opening batsman hammered a massive six off the last ball to reach his ton.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rajasthan-royals-thrash-csk-to-keep-playoffs-hope-alive-key-highlights-of-the-sensational-clash-in-pics-417775">Rajasthan Royals thrash CSK to keep playoffs hope alive: Key highlights of the sensational clash in pics</a>

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Moment hai, moment..💗😁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaBol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaBol</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/yashasvi_j?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yashasvi_j</a> <a href="https://t.co/jxDiIVwqFL">pic.twitter.com/jxDiIVwqFL</a>
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Glad we entertained the Abu Dhabi crowd, <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>. 🤝 
 
See you again this season, hopefully. 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaBol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaBol</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalsFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalsFamily</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/74KE8MHceg">pic.twitter.com/74KE8MHceg</a>
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IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-rishabhs-delhi-fly-high-rohits-mumbai-falter-a-look-at-dc-vs-mi-clash-in-pics-417750">IPL 2021: Rishabh's Delhi fly high, Rohit's Mumbai falter - A look at DC vs MI clash in pics</a>

"Unbelievable batting by Gaikwad, we're afraid of a batsman like him. Really a lot of respect to him. We aren't thinking too far ahead, one match at a time," said Samson during the post-match presentation.&nbsp;

opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (50) and Shivam Dube (64 not out off 42 balls) hit half-centuries as RR reached 190 for 3 in 17.3 overs to win the match.

"We are aware of the abilities of our youngsters, that's why we get disappointed when we lose matches. Our openers finished off the game in the PP, Jaiswal was superb, hopefully, he'll make it big," said Samson.

"We have been discussing Shivam in the last 2-3 games. Mahipal did a good job in the first few games, but we thought today could be Shivam's game," he added.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson was upbeat as his side managed to keep the playoffs hope alive after an outstanding performance against the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings, defeating them by seven wickets in their Indian Premier League 2021 match at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday (October 2).

Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson was upbeat as his side managed to keep the playoffs hope alive after an outstanding performance against the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings, defeating them by seven wickets in their Indian Premier League 2021 match at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday (October 2). Samson praised the team, especially the openers as RR chased down an imposing target of 190, he said, "We just wanted to back ourselves. I am happy I guessed it (pitch getting better in the second innings) right. They (openers) have been giving good starts, they almost finished off the game in the powerplay. They were going for the kill." However, he didn't shy away from praising CSK opening batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad. Ruturaj was on 95 when he got the strike on the fifth ball of the last over. The opening batsman hammered a massive six off the last ball to reach his ton. IN PICS | Rajasthan Royals thrash CSK to keep playoffs hope alive: Key highlights of the sensational clash in pics Moment hai, moment..💗😁 #RRvCSK | #HallaBol | #IPL2021 | @yashasvi_j pic.twitter.com/jxDiIVwqFL — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) October 2, 2021 × Glad we entertained the Abu Dhabi crowd, @ChennaiIPL. 🤝 See you again this season, hopefully. 😉#RRvCSK | #HallaBol | #RoyalsFamily | @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/74KE8MHceg — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) October 2, 2021 × IN PICS | IPL 2021: Rishabh's Delhi fly high, Rohit's Mumbai falter - A look at DC vs MI clash in pics "Unbelievable batting by Gaikwad, we're afraid of a batsman like him. Really a lot of respect to him. We aren't thinking too far ahead, one match at a time," said Samson during the post-match presentation. opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (50) and Shivam Dube (64 not out off 42 balls) hit half-centuries as RR reached 190 for 3 in 17.3 overs to win the match. "We are aware of the abilities of our youngsters, that's why we get disappointed when we lose matches. Our openers finished off the game in the PP, Jaiswal was superb, hopefully, he'll make it big," said Samson. "We have been discussing Shivam in the last 2-3 games. Mahipal did a good job in the first few games, but we thought today could be Shivam's game," he added.

IPL 2021: Sanju Samson upbeat as playoffs hope alive; says 'we're afraid of a batsman like Gaikwad'

Rajasthan Royals thrash CSK to keep playoffs hope alive: Key highlights of the sensational clash in pics

It was a "bad toss" to lose feels Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper, MS Dhoni, after losing a super-entertaining and high-scoring Indian Premier League 2021 contest against Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday (October 2).&nbsp;

For CSK, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad hit his maiden IPL century but failed to inspire his team. His unbeaten 101 off 60 balls steered Chennai to 189-4 after being invited to bat first but clinical Royals chased down the target in just 17.3 overs with crucial knocks by Yashasvi Jaiswal (50) and Shivam Dube (64*).&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-rishabhs-delhi-fly-high-rohits-mumbai-falter-a-look-at-dc-vs-mi-clash-in-pics-417750">IPL 2021: Rishabh's Delhi fly high, Rohit's Mumbai falter - A look at DC vs MI clash in pics</a>

Dhoni admitted that a similar type of thing could happen in the playoffs where a team might lose despite scoring a good total and he urged his side to "learn" from the game. "It's important to forget but also learn from this game, because there's no point learning if this happens in a playoff match," he said during the post-match presentation.&nbsp;

"It was a bad toss to lose to start off, but I feel the Royals batters batted really well. Around 250 may have been about right on that surface (laughs). There was dew and the ball started coming on well, still you needed to bat well and that`s what they did. An ideal start in a tall chase where they took the game on in the PP," said Dhoni.&nbsp;

"I think initially it was stopping a bit, which we saw with their wrist spinners. As the innings progressed, it started coming on well, Rutu`s was an outstanding knock. When you lose the game, it can get brushed under the carpet but he batted very well to get us up to 190," he added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/remember-the-name-twitterati-hail-special-player-ruturaj-gaikwads-scintillating-101-not-out-417742">'Remember the name': Twitterati hail 'special player' Ruturaj Gaikwad's scintillating 101 not out</a>

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A look at the Points Table after Match 47 of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> 👇 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/WNdMgWRgX1">pic.twitter.com/WNdMgWRgX1</a>
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Sensational run-chase to seal a win! 👌 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a> put up a solid show with the bat &amp; beat <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> by 7⃣ wickets. 👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> 
 
Scorecard 👉 <a href="https://t.co/dRp6k449yy">https://t.co/dRp6k449yy</a> <a href="https://t.co/fbv8zN02Aw">pic.twitter.com/fbv8zN02Aw</a>
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💔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/QiJ2SdJx2K">pic.twitter.com/QiJ2SdJx2K</a>
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Dhoni missed the services of Dwayne Bravo and Deepak Chahar, as he said, "Dwayne and Deepak aren't here, of course, I missed them. Both of them are quite experienced."

CSK have already qualified for the playoffs and stay top of the table and with the win, Rajasthan have managed to keep their playoff hopes alive.

It was a "bad toss" to lose feels Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper, MS Dhoni, after losing a super-entertaining and high-scoring Indian Premier League 2021 contest against Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday (October 2).

It was a "bad toss" to lose feels Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper, MS Dhoni, after losing a super-entertaining and high-scoring Indian Premier League 2021 contest against Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday (October 2). For CSK, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad hit his maiden IPL century but failed to inspire his team. His unbeaten 101 off 60 balls steered Chennai to 189-4 after being invited to bat first but clinical Royals chased down the target in just 17.3 overs with crucial knocks by Yashasvi Jaiswal (50) and Shivam Dube (64*). IN PICS | IPL 2021: Rishabh's Delhi fly high, Rohit's Mumbai falter - A look at DC vs MI clash in pics Dhoni admitted that a similar type of thing could happen in the playoffs where a team might lose despite scoring a good total and he urged his side to "learn" from the game. "It's important to forget but also learn from this game, because there's no point learning if this happens in a playoff match," he said during the post-match presentation. "It was a bad toss to lose to start off, but I feel the Royals batters batted really well. Around 250 may have been about right on that surface (laughs). There was dew and the ball started coming on well, still you needed to bat well and that`s what they did. An ideal start in a tall chase where they took the game on in the PP," said Dhoni. "I think initially it was stopping a bit, which we saw with their wrist spinners. As the innings progressed, it started coming on well, Rutu`s was an outstanding knock. When you lose the game, it can get brushed under the carpet but he batted very well to get us up to 190," he added. ALSO READ | 'Remember the name': Twitterati hail 'special player' Ruturaj Gaikwad's scintillating 101 not out A look at the Points Table after Match 47 of the #VIVOIPL 👇 #RRvCSK pic.twitter.com/WNdMgWRgX1 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 2, 2021 × Sensational run-chase to seal a win! 👌 👌@rajasthanroyals put up a solid show with the bat & beat #CSK by 7⃣ wickets. 👏👏 #VIVOIPL #RRvCSK Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/dRp6k449yy pic.twitter.com/fbv8zN02Aw — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 2, 2021 × 💔#RRvCSK #WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/QiJ2SdJx2K — Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) October 2, 2021 × Dhoni missed the services of Dwayne Bravo and Deepak Chahar, as he said, "Dwayne and Deepak aren't here, of course, I missed them. Both of them are quite experienced." CSK have already qualified for the playoffs and stay top of the table and with the win, Rajasthan have managed to keep their playoff hopes alive.

IPL 2021: 'It's important to forget but also learn from this game,' says MS Dhoni after losing to Rajasthan Royals

Yashasvi Jaiswal timed it beautifully while Shivam Dube deflated Chennai Super Kings with brute power as Rajasthan Royals kept their play-off hopes alive with a morale-boosting seven-wicket victory in the IPL here on Saturday.

Jasiwal smashed 50 off 21 balls which included some delectable sixes off star Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood while Dube sent the likes of Moeen Ali and Ravindra Jadeja into orbit en route his unbeaten 64 off 42 balls as Royals made a short work of a victory target of 190 in just 17.3 overs.

Royals now have 10 points with two matches to go. The fourth place is set to be clinched at 14 points and net run-rate is going to be crucial. 
The defeat won't hurt CSK much as they sit pretty on 18 points, having already made it to last four stage.

When CSK ended their innings at 189 for 4 with Ruturaj Gaikwad's superb 60-ball-101 not out, little did anyone think that Royals' Indian players would reply in kind and go even one better.

Jaiswal, with six fours and three sixes, was given fine support by Evin Lewis (27 off 12 balls) in their opening stand of 77 in 5.2 overs which set up the game.

Hazlewood (0/54) wouldn't have imagined that he would be hit for three sixes in his first spell as the match slipped out of CSK's grasp in the Powerpay itself.

Jaiswal, whose game has improved from last season by a few notches, was seen flicking Hazlewood over deep mid-wicket and also hit a straight six during that knock.

Dube, who doesn't have much of a footwork, hit some monstrous sixes off Jadeja, Moeen Ali and Sam Curran whenever the ball was pitched in his arc.

In all, he hit four fours and four sixes. Such was Dube's domination that even the stylish Sanju Samson (28 off 24 balls) paled in comparison during their 89 run stand for the third wicket in 9.3 overs.

But when the match started, it seemed as if Gaikwad owned the stage as he hit a six off Mustafizur Rahaman's last ball to complete a coveted maiden IPL ton.

Gaikwad struck as many as nine fours and five sixes in his 60-ball 101 not out to make a mockery of Royals' bowling attack in their 12th round encounter. Some of his shots in the off-side region would be remembered for times to come.

Ravindra Jadeja (32 not out off 15 balls) scythed through the Royals attack at the back-end as CSK added 55 runs in only 3.4 overs.

In fact, in the final over, Jadeja faced four deliveries, leaving Gaikwad with two deliveries and he pulled Mustafizur Rahman off the final delivery to complete the coveted landmark.

For the Royals, leg-spinner Rahul Tewatia (3/39 in 4 overs) was the most successful bowler but his joy of getting three scalps was spoilt by Gaikwad with two back-to-back sixes -- one over long-off and other into the sightscreen.

The sixes over mid-wicket off left-arm seamers Akash Singh and Mustafizur were delightful as it landed at least 20 yards behind the ropes into the grass banks.

The Punekar is not someone who is muscular but a "strong core" (according to him) and stable base allows him to maintain shape while going for the big shots as Royals found out on the day.

The manner in which he came down the track and lofted seamer Chetan Sakariya for an inside-out one-bounce boundary made it look as if he was tackling a spinner with enough time at his disposal.

There were a lot of boundaries in the arc between cover and mid-off region as his driving was majestic.

Gaikwad's sequence of scores since resumption of IPL is 88, 38, 30, 45 and now 101 not out.

There hasn't been a single failure so far and his partnerships with Faf du Plessis (25) has been the cornerstone of CSK's good batting performance.

That none of their retired stars like Suresh Raina, skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Ambati Rayudu, all IPL heavyweights in their own rights, haven't had much contribution with the bat, isn't affecting them primarily because of du Plessis and Gaikwad's power-packed starts.

On Saturday, they added 47 for the first wicket while they had conjured up 71 against RCB, 74 against KKR and 75 against SunRisers Hyderabad.

Yashasvi Jaiswal timed it beautifully while Shivam Dube deflated Chennai Super Kings with brute power as Rajasthan Royals kept their play-off hopes alive with a morale-boosting seven-wicket victory in the IPL here on Saturday.

Yashasvi Jaiswal timed it beautifully while Shivam Dube deflated Chennai Super Kings with brute power as Rajasthan Royals kept their play-off hopes alive with a morale-boosting seven-wicket victory in the IPL here on Saturday. Jasiwal smashed 50 off 21 balls which included some delectable sixes off star Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood while Dube sent the likes of Moeen Ali and Ravindra Jadeja into orbit en route his unbeaten 64 off 42 balls as Royals made a short work of a victory target of 190 in just 17.3 overs. Royals now have 10 points with two matches to go. The fourth place is set to be clinched at 14 points and net run-rate is going to be crucial. The defeat won't hurt CSK much as they sit pretty on 18 points, having already made it to last four stage. When CSK ended their innings at 189 for 4 with Ruturaj Gaikwad's superb 60-ball-101 not out, little did anyone think that Royals' Indian players would reply in kind and go even one better. Jaiswal, with six fours and three sixes, was given fine support by Evin Lewis (27 off 12 balls) in their opening stand of 77 in 5.2 overs which set up the game. Hazlewood (0/54) wouldn't have imagined that he would be hit for three sixes in his first spell as the match slipped out of CSK's grasp in the Powerpay itself. Jaiswal, whose game has improved from last season by a few notches, was seen flicking Hazlewood over deep mid-wicket and also hit a straight six during that knock. Dube, who doesn't have much of a footwork, hit some monstrous sixes off Jadeja, Moeen Ali and Sam Curran whenever the ball was pitched in his arc. In all, he hit four fours and four sixes. Such was Dube's domination that even the stylish Sanju Samson (28 off 24 balls) paled in comparison during their 89 run stand for the third wicket in 9.3 overs. But when the match started, it seemed as if Gaikwad owned the stage as he hit a six off Mustafizur Rahaman's last ball to complete a coveted maiden IPL ton. Gaikwad struck as many as nine fours and five sixes in his 60-ball 101 not out to make a mockery of Royals' bowling attack in their 12th round encounter. Some of his shots in the off-side region would be remembered for times to come. Ravindra Jadeja (32 not out off 15 balls) scythed through the Royals attack at the back-end as CSK added 55 runs in only 3.4 overs. In fact, in the final over, Jadeja faced four deliveries, leaving Gaikwad with two deliveries and he pulled Mustafizur Rahman off the final delivery to complete the coveted landmark. For the Royals, leg-spinner Rahul Tewatia (3/39 in 4 overs) was the most successful bowler but his joy of getting three scalps was spoilt by Gaikwad with two back-to-back sixes -- one over long-off and other into the sightscreen. The sixes over mid-wicket off left-arm seamers Akash Singh and Mustafizur were delightful as it landed at least 20 yards behind the ropes into the grass banks. The Punekar is not someone who is muscular but a "strong core" (according to him) and stable base allows him to maintain shape while going for the big shots as Royals found out on the day. The manner in which he came down the track and lofted seamer Chetan Sakariya for an inside-out one-bounce boundary made it look as if he was tackling a spinner with enough time at his disposal. There were a lot of boundaries in the arc between cover and mid-off region as his driving was majestic. Gaikwad's sequence of scores since resumption of IPL is 88, 38, 30, 45 and now 101 not out. There hasn't been a single failure so far and his partnerships with Faf du Plessis (25) has been the cornerstone of CSK's good batting performance. That none of their retired stars like Suresh Raina, skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Ambati Rayudu, all IPL heavyweights in their own rights, haven't had much contribution with the bat, isn't affecting them primarily because of du Plessis and Gaikwad's power-packed starts. On Saturday, they added 47 for the first wicket while they had conjured up 71 against RCB, 74 against KKR and 75 against SunRisers Hyderabad.

IPL 2021: Rajasthan Royals beat Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets

What a century! What a knock!

Ruturaj Gaikwad slammed a magnificent ton to guide Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to 189 for four against Rajasthan Royals in their Indian Premier League 2021 match on Saturday (October 2).&nbsp;

Gaikwad scored an unbeaten 101 off 60 balls and completed his ton by hitting a sixer on the last ball as the 24-year-old became the youngest centurion for CSK in the history of the IPL.&nbsp;

Overall, his knock included nine fours and five sixes after CSK were asked to bat first. Ravindra Jadeja contributed 32 off just 15 balls while Faf du Plessis made 25.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruturaj-gaikwad-lights-up-abu-dhabi-slams-maiden-ipl-century-with-last-ball-six-against-rr-417733">Ruturaj Gaikwad lights up Abu Dhabi, slams maiden IPL century with last-ball six against RR</a>

During the innings break, Ruturaj opened up about his knock, he said, "The wicket was holding up a bit initially, they started off well in the powerplay. My plan was to bat till the 13th or 14th over, so that I could capitalize on it later. I'm just looking to time the ball and maintain my shape."

"At the end of the day the team score matters. Individual score doesn't matter, unless and until your team is winning. We were looking for 160, then I thought 170, 180 and finally we got 190," he added.

On his last ball sixer, the batter said, "I had timed that ball well and it was the shorter boundary, so I knew it was going to be a six. We need to bowl well and execute our plans."

Watch his last ball sixer here:

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What a knock form Ruturaj Gaikwad<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a> <a href="https://t.co/xS0eoM8R2o">pic.twitter.com/xS0eoM8R2o</a>
— Mr Lakhani 🇮🇳 (@_buddhu) <a href="https://twitter.com/_buddhu/status/1444332476604637184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag predicted that Ruturaj might dominate world cricket in the future."Remember the name.#RuturajGaikwad. Special player, made for greater things. Matter of time before he dominates World Cricket. #CSKvsRR," Sehwag tweeted.

Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin tweeted,&nbsp;"Ruturaj. What a knock and what a player#csk."&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals assistant coach lauded Ruturaj for the "self-belief" the opening batsman displayed against Rajasthan Royals on Saturday."Ruturaj shows that self belief can make you a game-changer without changing your game. @Ruutu1331#CSKvsRR," Kaif tweeted.

Here's how the Twitterati reacted to his century:

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Remember the name.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a>. 
Special player, made for greater things. Matter of time before he dominates World Cricket. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvsRR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvsRR</a> <a href="https://t.co/XPp69w9tgE">pic.twitter.com/XPp69w9tgE</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1444334186068803585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Top innings from Orange Cap Holder Ruturaj Gaikwad. One of the best I've seen in the recent past ! 
 
PURE CLASS 🔥🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a> <a href="https://t.co/jnWQVdyRHa">pic.twitter.com/jnWQVdyRHa</a>
— ᎷᎧᏂᎥᏖ (@SupremeSidharth) <a href="https://twitter.com/SupremeSidharth/status/1444331010741596167?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In Search of Spark we identified a Wildifire.🔥🔥🔥. Scored 500+ runs🏏 already. Orange cap Holder. Ruturaj Gaikwad is the best find of our Franchise. His range of shots and consistency is impressive. Excellent Knock young man. 🔥👏👏. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Csk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Csk</a> <a href="https://t.co/VhuUIwDL4k">pic.twitter.com/VhuUIwDL4k</a>
— Rathna kumar (@MrRathna) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrRathna/status/1444330574055804930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Well Played Ruturaj 🥳 Also Orange Cap 💛 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a> <a href="https://t.co/kqkweSx9XP">pic.twitter.com/kqkweSx9XP</a>
— Suresh Raina FC™ (@CultRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/CultRaina/status/1444331454431842305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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You beauty 🤩 <a href="https://twitter.com/Ruutu1331?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ruutu1331</a><a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> 
Kindly include Rutu in the World Cup squad, he definitely Valuable Asset.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rutu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rutu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/century?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#century</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvsRR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvsRR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/yjxjs6yLKU">pic.twitter.com/yjxjs6yLKU</a>
— Million Dollar ??? (@Sureshimhere) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sureshimhere/status/1444333522718638085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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For RR, Rahul Tewatia was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/39.

Brief Scores: 
Chennai Super Kings: 189 for 4 in 20 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 101 not out, Ravindra Jadeja 32 not out; Rahul Tewatia 3/39).

What a century! What a knock! Ruturaj Gaikwad slammed a magnificent ton to guide Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to 189 for four against Rajasthan Royals in their Indian Premier League 2021 match on Saturday (October 2).

What a century! What a knock! Ruturaj Gaikwad slammed a magnificent ton to guide Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to 189 for four against Rajasthan Royals in their Indian Premier League 2021 match on Saturday (October 2). Gaikwad scored an unbeaten 101 off 60 balls and completed his ton by hitting a sixer on the last ball as the 24-year-old became the youngest centurion for CSK in the history of the IPL. Overall, his knock included nine fours and five sixes after CSK were asked to bat first. Ravindra Jadeja contributed 32 off just 15 balls while Faf du Plessis made 25. ALSO READ | Ruturaj Gaikwad lights up Abu Dhabi, slams maiden IPL century with last-ball six against RR During the innings break, Ruturaj opened up about his knock, he said, "The wicket was holding up a bit initially, they started off well in the powerplay. My plan was to bat till the 13th or 14th over, so that I could capitalize on it later. I'm just looking to time the ball and maintain my shape." "At the end of the day the team score matters. Individual score doesn't matter, unless and until your team is winning. We were looking for 160, then I thought 170, 180 and finally we got 190," he added. On his last ball sixer, the batter said, "I had timed that ball well and it was the shorter boundary, so I knew it was going to be a six. We need to bowl well and execute our plans." Watch his last ball sixer here: What a knock form Ruturaj Gaikwad#RuturajGaikwad pic.twitter.com/xS0eoM8R2o — Mr Lakhani 🇮🇳 (@_buddhu) October 2, 2021 × Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag predicted that Ruturaj might dominate world cricket in the future."Remember the name.#RuturajGaikwad. Special player, made for greater things. Matter of time before he dominates World Cricket. #CSKvsRR," Sehwag tweeted. Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin tweeted, "Ruturaj. What a knock and what a player#csk." Delhi Capitals assistant coach lauded Ruturaj for the "self-belief" the opening batsman displayed against Rajasthan Royals on Saturday."Ruturaj shows that self belief can make you a game-changer without changing your game. @Ruutu1331#CSKvsRR," Kaif tweeted. Here's how the Twitterati reacted to his century: Remember the name.#RuturajGaikwad. Special player, made for greater things. Matter of time before he dominates World Cricket. #CSKvsRR pic.twitter.com/XPp69w9tgE — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 2, 2021 × Top innings from Orange Cap Holder Ruturaj Gaikwad. One of the best I've seen in the recent past ! PURE CLASS 🔥🔥#RRvCSK #WhistlePodu #RuturajGaikwad pic.twitter.com/jnWQVdyRHa — ᎷᎧᏂᎥᏖ (@SupremeSidharth) October 2, 2021 × In Search of Spark we identified a Wildifire.🔥🔥🔥. Scored 500+ runs🏏 already. Orange cap Holder. Ruturaj Gaikwad is the best find of our Franchise. His range of shots and consistency is impressive. Excellent Knock young man. 🔥👏👏. #RRvCSK#RuturajGaikwad#Csk pic.twitter.com/VhuUIwDL4k — Rathna kumar (@MrRathna) October 2, 2021 × Well Played Ruturaj 🥳 Also Orange Cap 💛 #RuturajGaikwad pic.twitter.com/kqkweSx9XP — Suresh Raina FC™ (@CultRaina) October 2, 2021 × You beauty 🤩 @Ruutu1331@imVkohli @BCCI Kindly include Rutu in the World Cup squad, he definitely Valuable Asset.#RuturajGaikwad #Rutu #century #CSK #CSKvsRR #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/yjxjs6yLKU — Million Dollar ??? (@Sureshimhere) October 2, 2021 × For RR, Rahul Tewatia was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/39. Brief Scores: Chennai Super Kings: 189 for 4 in 20 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 101 not out, Ravindra Jadeja 32 not out; Rahul Tewatia 3/39).

'Remember the name': Twitterati hail 'special player' Ruturaj Gaikwad's scintillating 101 not out

MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the first team to secure a spot in the playoff in IPL 2021 with a six-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their last game. CSK are currently on a winning streak of four matches in the UAE and will be looking to continue their flawless run when they take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their 12th match of the season on Saturday.

The Dhoni-led side bagged their ninth win on Thursday after getting the better of a hapless Sunrisers Hyderabad side, who were ousted from the race for playoffs. Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, have so far managed four wins in eleven matches this season and a loss tonight will all but end their campaign in IPL 2021.

RR have once again struggled to find consistency this season and have dearly missed the presence of their overseas superstars - Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer who are all missing the league. RR failed to defend 149 runs in their last game and lost by seven wickets against RCB. Samson &amp; Co. will be hoping to bounce back and keep their playoffs hopes alive against CSK. Here is all you need to know about the CSK vs RR clash -&nbsp;

Head to head:

Chennai Super Kings unsurprisingly enjoy a massive advantage over Rajasthan Royals when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two sides. CSK have 15 wins in 23 meetings between the two teams in IPL.

Stats:

CSK players love playing against Rajasthan Royals. Skipper MS Dhoni has 495 runs to his name in 22 innings against RR while Dwayne Bravo and Ravindra Jadeja have both been among the wickets against the Royals.

Trivia:

The last meeting between the two sides ended in CSK's favour with Dhoni &amp; Co. producing a brilliant&nbsp;combined batting effort to post 188 runs on the board before Moeen Ali's three wicket-haul combined with impressive bowling performances from Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja helped CSK win the game by 45 runs. CSK will hope to make it two wins in a row against RR this season.

Squads:

Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Josh Hazlewood, Robin Uthappa, Cheteshwar Pujara, Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Jason Behrendorff, Krishnappa Gowtham, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Santner, Sam Curran, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Hari Nishanth, N Jagadeesan, KM Asif, Harishankar Reddy, Bhagath Varma

Rajasthan Royals: Evin Lewis, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson(w/c), Mahipal Lomror, Liam Livingstone, Rahul Tewatia, Riyan Parag, Chris Morris, Chetan Sakariya, Kartik Tyagi, Mustafizur Rahman, Jaydev Unadkat, David Miller, Manan Vohra, Shreyas Gopal, Tabraiz Shamsi, KC Cariappa, Glenn Phillips, Shivam Dube, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Gerald Coetzee, Kuldip Yadav, Akash Singh

&nbsp;

MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the first team to secure a spot in the playoff in IPL 2021 with a six-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their last game.

MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) became the first team to secure a spot in the playoff in IPL 2021 with a six-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their last game. CSK are currently on a winning streak of four matches in the UAE and will be looking to continue their flawless run when they take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their 12th match of the season on Saturday. The Dhoni-led side bagged their ninth win on Thursday after getting the better of a hapless Sunrisers Hyderabad side, who were ousted from the race for playoffs. Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, have so far managed four wins in eleven matches this season and a loss tonight will all but end their campaign in IPL 2021. RR have once again struggled to find consistency this season and have dearly missed the presence of their overseas superstars - Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer who are all missing the league. RR failed to defend 149 runs in their last game and lost by seven wickets against RCB. Samson & Co. will be hoping to bounce back and keep their playoffs hopes alive against CSK. Here is all you need to know about the CSK vs RR clash - Head to head: Chennai Super Kings unsurprisingly enjoy a massive advantage over Rajasthan Royals when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two sides. CSK have 15 wins in 23 meetings between the two teams in IPL. Stats: CSK players love playing against Rajasthan Royals. Skipper MS Dhoni has 495 runs to his name in 22 innings against RR while Dwayne Bravo and Ravindra Jadeja have both been among the wickets against the Royals. Trivia: The last meeting between the two sides ended in CSK's favour with Dhoni & Co. producing a brilliant combined batting effort to post 188 runs on the board before Moeen Ali's three wicket-haul combined with impressive bowling performances from Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja helped CSK win the game by 45 runs. CSK will hope to make it two wins in a row against RR this season. Squads: Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Josh Hazlewood, Robin Uthappa, Cheteshwar Pujara, Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Jason Behrendorff, Krishnappa Gowtham, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Santner, Sam Curran, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Hari Nishanth, N Jagadeesan, KM Asif, Harishankar Reddy, Bhagath Varma Rajasthan Royals: Evin Lewis, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson(w/c), Mahipal Lomror, Liam Livingstone, Rahul Tewatia, Riyan Parag, Chris Morris, Chetan Sakariya, Kartik Tyagi, Mustafizur Rahman, Jaydev Unadkat, David Miller, Manan Vohra, Shreyas Gopal, Tabraiz Shamsi, KC Cariappa, Glenn Phillips, Shivam Dube, Oshane Thomas, Mayank Markande, Anuj Rawat, Gerald Coetzee, Kuldip Yadav, Akash Singh

IPL 2021: RR vs CSK - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli said that his team "came back and dominated" as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-all-round-royal-challengers-bangalore-thrash-rajasthan-royals-by-7-wickets-416952">RCB defeated Rajasthan Royals</a> by seven wickets in Indian Premier League 2021 on Wednesday (September 29) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;

Hailing his team after the victory, Kohli said during the post-match presentation ceremony, "We have come back strongly in two games back-to-back with the ball which is a great sign. In T20 cricket if you can hold nerve with the ball, it means you are heading in the right direction."&nbsp;

Currently, RCB stay third in the eight-team table, led by Chennai Super Kings, and eye a strong league finish in their bid for a maiden title. "175 would have been competitive, it still was a very good wicket to bat on. With the kind of bowling attack that we have, we need a couple of breakthroughs and things will open up," Kohli further said.&nbsp;

"We knew if we held to our patience, we'll get mistakes from the batsmen and that's what happened but they were forced mistakes," added Kohli.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-virender-sehwag-schools-pbks-skipper-kl-rahul-on-his-batting-after-mi-clash-416851">IPL 2021: Virender Sehwag schools PBKS skipper KL Rahul on his batting after MI clash</a>

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READ: An all-round bowling performance &amp; Glenn Maxwell-KS Bharat's solid show with the bat power <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> to a 7⃣-wicket win over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RR</a>. 👏 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvRCB</a> 
 
Here's the Match Report 👇<a href="https://t.co/kGibHILNxA">https://t.co/kGibHILNxA</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1443284818595250180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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During the match, Glenn Maxwell hit his second successive half-century to inspire the team towards victory. He made an unbeaten 50 off 30 deliveries as Bangalore chased down their victory target of 150 in 17.1 overs.&nbsp;

Kohli (25) and Devdutt Padikkal (22) gave the team a required start for the opening wicket. Srikar Bharat (44) and Maxwell put on a third-wicket stand of 69.&nbsp;

For RCB, paceman Harshal Patel taking three wickets and spinners Shahbaz Ahmed and Yuzvendra Chahal claiming two each to restrict Rajasthan to 149-9.&nbsp;

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>

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A look at the Points Table after Match 43 of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a>. <a href="https://t.co/07aYw3Lcvq">pic.twitter.com/07aYw3Lcvq</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1443281290040692743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the Royals collapsed from a comfortable 100-1 in 11 overs to 117-5. We don't have anything to lose. That kind of mindset brings a lot of freedom, have seen some funny things happen," said Rajasthan skipper Sanju Samson.

(With inputs from agencies)

Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli said that his team "came back and dominated" as RCB defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets in Indian Premier League 2021 on Wednesday (September 29) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli said that his team "came back and dominated" as RCB defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets in Indian Premier League 2021 on Wednesday (September 29) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Hailing his team after the victory, Kohli said during the post-match presentation ceremony, "We have come back strongly in two games back-to-back with the ball which is a great sign. In T20 cricket if you can hold nerve with the ball, it means you are heading in the right direction." Currently, RCB stay third in the eight-team table, led by Chennai Super Kings, and eye a strong league finish in their bid for a maiden title. "175 would have been competitive, it still was a very good wicket to bat on. With the kind of bowling attack that we have, we need a couple of breakthroughs and things will open up," Kohli further said. "We knew if we held to our patience, we'll get mistakes from the batsmen and that's what happened but they were forced mistakes," added Kohli. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Virender Sehwag schools PBKS skipper KL Rahul on his batting after MI clash READ: An all-round bowling performance & Glenn Maxwell-KS Bharat's solid show with the bat power @RCBTweets to a 7⃣-wicket win over #RR. 👏 👏 #VIVOIPL #RRvRCB Here's the Match Report 👇https://t.co/kGibHILNxA — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 29, 2021 × During the match, Glenn Maxwell hit his second successive half-century to inspire the team towards victory. He made an unbeaten 50 off 30 deliveries as Bangalore chased down their victory target of 150 in 17.1 overs. Kohli (25) and Devdutt Padikkal (22) gave the team a required start for the opening wicket. Srikar Bharat (44) and Maxwell put on a third-wicket stand of 69. For RCB, paceman Harshal Patel taking three wickets and spinners Shahbaz Ahmed and Yuzvendra Chahal claiming two each to restrict Rajasthan to 149-9. ALSO READ | Trouble for Virat Kohli? Senior cricketers complained about Indian skipper's attitude to BCCI's Jay Shah: Report A look at the Points Table after Match 43 of #VIVOIPL. pic.twitter.com/07aYw3Lcvq — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 29, 2021 × Earlier, the Royals collapsed from a comfortable 100-1 in 11 overs to 117-5. We don't have anything to lose. That kind of mindset brings a lot of freedom, have seen some funny things happen," said Rajasthan skipper Sanju Samson. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2021: 'We came back and dominated,' says RCB captain Virat Kohli after seven-wicket win over Rajasthan

Tech billionaire Elon Musk's one of the latest tweets has left the Indian cricket fans confused as he wrote "Maxwell was incredible" just moments after Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore registered a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League 2021 on Wednesday (September 29).

Tech billionaire Elon Musk's one of the latest tweets has left the Indian cricket fans confused as he wrote "Maxwell was incredible" just moments after Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore registered a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League 2021 on Wednesday (September 29). During the match, Maxwell hit his second successive half-century to fire RCB to a convincing win. The Australian batting all-rounder made an unbeaten 50 off 30 deliveries as Bangalore chased down their victory target of 150 in 17.1 overs. ALSO READ | UK's fuel crisis hits Cristiano Ronaldo! Manchester United star's Bentley goes petrol-hunting - see pics However, Musk's tweet — "Maxwell was incredible" — was not meant for the Australian batter as it was a response to an article on scientist James Clerk Maxwell. But many Indian cricket fans assumed that Elon Musk has appreciated the cricketer, and rightly so as the IPL fever is high with the second leg of the 14th edition of cash-rich league underway in UAE. One of the Twitter users commented, "Yes sir. We all just saw the RCB match too." "So the richest person also looks interested In cricket!" another chimed in. One user even went on to say, "AB is better." ALSO READ | Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli to the BCCI go viral Who was James Clerk Maxwell? So, it is clear that Tesla owner Elon Musk didn't compliment the cricketer, his tweet was actually for James Clerk Maxwell, who was a Scottish mathematician and scientist responsible for the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation describing electricity, magnetism and light as different manifestations of the same phenomenon for the first time. According to Space.com, the scientist's insights took the form of 20 interconnected equations, which, a few years later, were reduced to four equations of electromagnetism that are still taught to scientists and engineers today. His revolution followed Isaac Newton's first unification of physics, in which Earth's gravity was joined with the gravity of the heavens under a single law, and Maxwell's equations became known as the second great unification in physics. (With inputs from agencies)

'Maxwell was incredible': Elon Musk's tweet confuses Indian cricket fans

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;

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;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<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">IPL 2021: Virender Sehwag takes a dig at Eoin Morgan following KKR captain's heated exchange with R Ashwin</a>

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.

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>

Here's the throwback video of Ashwin mankading Buttler:

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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.

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

After registering a seven-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder Glenn Maxwell praised Srikar Bharat, calling him 'genuine top-class'&nbsp;batter.

Chasing 150, Glenn Maxwell and Srikar Bharat scored 50 and 44 respectively as RCB defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets with 17 balls to spare. With this win, RCB consolidated its position at the third spot with 14 points from 11 games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-reacts-sharply-after-rumours-of-him-complaining-against-virat-kohli-to-the-bcci-goes-viral-417047">R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli, to the BCCI, goes viral</a>

"I thought we played really well. They got off to an absolute flier and to bring them back in the last 10 overs was outstanding, then we controlled the tempo of the innings and finished it off. I have felt good since coming here, got myself into a nice routine at training and outside of training as well, just feel like it is really clicking for me. I don't suppose it (the atmosphere) is different to any other franchise, just what we have created as a group," Maxwell told host broadcaster Star Sports after the game ended.

Earlier, Harshal Patel's three-wicket haul helped RCB restrict Rajasthan Royals to 149/9 in the allotted twenty overs. For Sanju Samson's side, Evin Lewis top-scored with a knock of 58 runs from 37 balls.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-srh-vs-csk-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-chennai-super-kings-417041">IPL 2021, SRH vs CSK, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings?</a>

Yuzvendra Chahal was adjudged as Man of the Match for his two-wicket haul. "It is nice to have a bunch of guys doing different things and not relying on one guy. Everyone is chipping in and it has been a really enjoyable group so far. I wouldn't call it an experiment, he's (Bharat) a genuine top-class batter and the way he has gone about his innings is outstanding," he added.

RCB will next square off against Punjab Kings on Sunday in the ongoing IPL.

After registering a seven-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder Glenn Maxwell praised Srikar Bharat, calling him 'genuine top-class' batter.

After registering a seven-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder Glenn Maxwell praised Srikar Bharat, calling him 'genuine top-class' batter. Chasing 150, Glenn Maxwell and Srikar Bharat scored 50 and 44 respectively as RCB defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets with 17 balls to spare. With this win, RCB consolidated its position at the third spot with 14 points from 11 games. ALSO READ | R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli, to the BCCI, goes viral "I thought we played really well. They got off to an absolute flier and to bring them back in the last 10 overs was outstanding, then we controlled the tempo of the innings and finished it off. I have felt good since coming here, got myself into a nice routine at training and outside of training as well, just feel like it is really clicking for me. I don't suppose it (the atmosphere) is different to any other franchise, just what we have created as a group," Maxwell told host broadcaster Star Sports after the game ended. Earlier, Harshal Patel's three-wicket haul helped RCB restrict Rajasthan Royals to 149/9 in the allotted twenty overs. For Sanju Samson's side, Evin Lewis top-scored with a knock of 58 runs from 37 balls. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, SRH vs CSK, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings? Yuzvendra Chahal was adjudged as Man of the Match for his two-wicket haul. "It is nice to have a bunch of guys doing different things and not relying on one guy. Everyone is chipping in and it has been a really enjoyable group so far. I wouldn't call it an experiment, he's (Bharat) a genuine top-class batter and the way he has gone about his innings is outstanding," he added. RCB will next square off against Punjab Kings on Sunday in the ongoing IPL.

IPL 2021: RCB's Glenn Maxwell praises Srikar Bharat for his 35-ball 44 vs RR

Kumar Sangakkara doesn't believe in blame game as both success and failure are collective in nature, Rajasthan Royals Team Director said after another disappointing performance from his team which seriously dented their IPL play-off hopes.

Royals after the Delhi Capitals game put up another shoddy batting performance that saw Royal Challengers Bangalore cantered to victory. Royals are now seventh in the eight-team table.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-reacts-sharply-after-rumours-of-him-complaining-against-virat-kohli-to-the-bcci-goes-viral-417047">R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli, to the BCCI, goes viral</a>

"We don't play the blame game in our franchise. We win together, we lose together. We haven't done well enough, haven't been smart enough with our batting and we all know that. The players know it. So, we'll try to keep things simple, focus on training and how we plan to execute what we've spoken about," Sangakarra said at the post-match media conference.

"We always keep things simple. There's a lot of pressure on players that they put on themselves. In the game itself, there's a lot of pressure," Sangakkara added.

For Sangakkara, his job is to guide the team rather than putting more burden on them.

"My job is not to add to that but guide them (on) how to deal with it and come up with their best performances," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-srh-vs-csk-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-chennai-super-kings-417041">IPL 2021, SRH vs CSK, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings?</a>

To manage highs and lows require different perspective feels Sangakkara.

"There's many ways that you manage the highs of wins and disappointments of a loss and be able to keep yourself calm and focus on what needs to be done.

"At times like this, it's very easy to be dejected and break up into little groups where murmurings can start but our group has held together really well," added the Sri Lankan batting great.

The former Sri Lankan wicket-keeper also praised skipper Sanju Samson, saying he will be selected in the national team for a longer run.

"Yeah, we do have one-on-one chats on a lot of things. And when we do talk cricket, India aspirations come at a time when the IPL is over. And our chats are very-much IPL-focused. Not just his (Samson's) batting but about captaincy, about the team and how we are playing," Sangakkara added.

Samson, who has scored 452 runs this season, is the leading run-getter for his franchise.

"He (Samson) is a very good player, a very special player. He has done exceptionally well for us this season. And I am sure that he has aspirations to play for India and, at some point, I think he will be selected for a longer run. He is good and ready at any-time that he is picked,? Sangakkara signed off.&nbsp;

Kumar Sangakkara doesn't believe in blame game as both success and failure are collective in nature, Rajasthan Royals Team Director said after another disappointing performance from his team which seriously dented their IPL play-off hopes.

Kumar Sangakkara doesn't believe in blame game as both success and failure are collective in nature, Rajasthan Royals Team Director said after another disappointing performance from his team which seriously dented their IPL play-off hopes. Royals after the Delhi Capitals game put up another shoddy batting performance that saw Royal Challengers Bangalore cantered to victory. Royals are now seventh in the eight-team table. ALSO READ | R Ashwin reacts sharply after rumours of him complaining against Virat Kohli, to the BCCI, goes viral "We don't play the blame game in our franchise. We win together, we lose together. We haven't done well enough, haven't been smart enough with our batting and we all know that. The players know it. So, we'll try to keep things simple, focus on training and how we plan to execute what we've spoken about," Sangakarra said at the post-match media conference. "We always keep things simple. There's a lot of pressure on players that they put on themselves. In the game itself, there's a lot of pressure," Sangakkara added. For Sangakkara, his job is to guide the team rather than putting more burden on them. "My job is not to add to that but guide them (on) how to deal with it and come up with their best performances," he said. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, SRH vs CSK, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings? To manage highs and lows require different perspective feels Sangakkara. "There's many ways that you manage the highs of wins and disappointments of a loss and be able to keep yourself calm and focus on what needs to be done. "At times like this, it's very easy to be dejected and break up into little groups where murmurings can start but our group has held together really well," added the Sri Lankan batting great. The former Sri Lankan wicket-keeper also praised skipper Sanju Samson, saying he will be selected in the national team for a longer run. "Yeah, we do have one-on-one chats on a lot of things. And when we do talk cricket, India aspirations come at a time when the IPL is over. And our chats are very-much IPL-focused. Not just his (Samson's) batting but about captaincy, about the team and how we are playing," Sangakkara added. Samson, who has scored 452 runs this season, is the leading run-getter for his franchise. "He (Samson) is a very good player, a very special player. He has done exceptionally well for us this season. And I am sure that he has aspirations to play for India and, at some point, I think he will be selected for a longer run. He is good and ready at any-time that he is picked,? Sangakkara signed off.

'We don't play blame game in our franchise,' says Rajasthan Royals Team Director Kumar Sangakkara

IPL 2021: Glenn Maxwell, Yuzvendra Chahal shine, here's Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Rajasthan Royals clash in pics

After losing to Royal Challengers Bangalore by seven wickets on Wednesday (September 29), Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson believes "funny things can happen" in the Indian Premier League and urged his team to "keep believing" till the last match we play.&nbsp;

"We don't have anything to lose. That kind of mindset brings a lot of freedom, have seen some funny things happen. Need to keep on believing and fighting till the last match," said Samson during the post-match presentation.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals were 100 for 1 at one stage before RCB bowlers made a stunning comeback. Samson admitted the mistakes also after his side failed to capitalise on a fine start, only to see the team being restricted to 149 for nine in the end.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-we-came-back-and-dominated-says-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-after-seven-wicket-win-over-rajasthan-416974">IPL 2021: 'We came back and dominated,' says RCB captain Virat Kohli after seven-wicket win over Rajasthan</a>

"We got a really good start, our openers played really well, but we couldn't capitalise on it. Think the middle-order needs some confidence, it has been a hard one week for us, we need to put up a good fight," Samson said.&nbsp;

"The wicket was a bit two-paced, so the batters couldn't time the ball properly, they kept mistiming it. Happy with the effort and intent with the bowling," he added.&nbsp;

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5⃣0⃣* Runs 
3⃣0⃣ Balls 
6⃣ Fours 
1⃣ Six<a href="https://twitter.com/Gmaxi_32?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Gmaxi_32</a> notched up his second successive half-century of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> &amp; guided <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> to a win. 💪💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvRCB</a> 
 
Watch his fine knock against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RR</a> 🎥👇<a href="https://t.co/nWKsQ8RQcL">https://t.co/nWKsQ8RQcL</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1443292074393030656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A look at the Points Table after Match 43 of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a>. <a href="https://t.co/07aYw3Lcvq">pic.twitter.com/07aYw3Lcvq</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1443281290040692743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-virender-sehwag-schools-pbks-skipper-kl-rahul-on-his-batting-after-mi-clash-416851">IPL 2021: Virender Sehwag schools PBKS skipper KL Rahul on his batting after MI clash</a>

During the match, RCB's Australian batter Glenn Maxwell hit a fifty while Srikar Bharat scored 44 as they defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets.&nbsp;

RCB restricted Rajasthan Royals to 149/9 and then chased down the target with 17 balls left after Maxwell (50*) and Bharat (44) show.&nbsp;

With this win, RCB now has 14 points in 11 games, on the other hand, Rajasthan is currently at the seventh spot with eight points.&nbsp;

After losing to Royal Challengers Bangalore by seven wickets on Wednesday (September 29), Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson believes "funny things can happen" in the Indian Premier League and urged his team to "keep believing" till the last match we play.

After losing to Royal Challengers Bangalore by seven wickets on Wednesday (September 29), Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson believes "funny things can happen" in the Indian Premier League and urged his team to "keep believing" till the last match we play. "We don't have anything to lose. That kind of mindset brings a lot of freedom, have seen some funny things happen. Need to keep on believing and fighting till the last match," said Samson during the post-match presentation. Rajasthan Royals were 100 for 1 at one stage before RCB bowlers made a stunning comeback. Samson admitted the mistakes also after his side failed to capitalise on a fine start, only to see the team being restricted to 149 for nine in the end. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: 'We came back and dominated,' says RCB captain Virat Kohli after seven-wicket win over Rajasthan "We got a really good start, our openers played really well, but we couldn't capitalise on it. Think the middle-order needs some confidence, it has been a hard one week for us, we need to put up a good fight," Samson said. "The wicket was a bit two-paced, so the batters couldn't time the ball properly, they kept mistiming it. Happy with the effort and intent with the bowling," he added. 5⃣0⃣* Runs 3⃣0⃣ Balls 6⃣ Fours 1⃣ Six@Gmaxi_32 notched up his second successive half-century of the #VIVOIPL & guided @RCBTweets to a win. 💪💪 #RRvRCB Watch his fine knock against #RR 🎥👇https://t.co/nWKsQ8RQcL — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 29, 2021 × A look at the Points Table after Match 43 of #VIVOIPL. pic.twitter.com/07aYw3Lcvq — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 29, 2021 × ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Virender Sehwag schools PBKS skipper KL Rahul on his batting after MI clash During the match, RCB's Australian batter Glenn Maxwell hit a fifty while Srikar Bharat scored 44 as they defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets. RCB restricted Rajasthan Royals to 149/9 and then chased down the target with 17 balls left after Maxwell (50*) and Bharat (44) show. With this win, RCB now has 14 points in 11 games, on the other hand, Rajasthan is currently at the seventh spot with eight points.

'Funny things can happen in IPL, we need to keep believing': Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson

Match 43 of the IPL 2021 edition will see an inconsistent Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) face third-ranked Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Wednesday evening (September 29). The match will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;

Talking about the form of both sides, RCB started their UAE leg with back-to-back defeats before mauling defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) by 54 runs to add two vital points in their kitty. On the other hand, Samson-led RR have yet again not lived upto expectations. With so much young talent and experienced foreign recruits, RR started the UAE leg with an inspiring come-from-behind win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) before failing to cross the finish line versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Delhi Capitals (DC).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-a-first-ipl-2021s-last-two-league-matches-to-be-played-concurrently-at-730-pm-confirms-bcci-416656">In a first, IPL 2021's last two league matches to be played concurrently at 7:30 PM, confirms BCCI</a>

As the tournament is progressing towards the business end, RCB will be eager to get to 16 points and fnalise a spot in the last-four whereas RR need to start winning big moments&nbsp;and look to be more consistent as they are on the cusp of missing out on the playoffs once again.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanju-samson-topples-shikhar-dhawan-to-take-orange-cap-list-of-top-5-run-getters-in-ipl-2021-so-far-416481">Sanju Samson topples Shikhar Dhawan to take Orange Cap: List of top 5 run-getters in IPL 2021 so far</a>

Match prediction for RCB vs RR encounter: So far, Dubai's turf has been a good batting track with something for the pacers as well. Another moderate-scoring match, around 160-170, on the cards with Bengaluru surely having an edge due to their better form and a 11-10 lead in head-to-head tally. RR need to perform collectively, with their batters running out of time to adapt to the sticky surfaces, else another RCB win looks likely on Wednesday evening.

Match 43 of the IPL 2021 edition will see an inconsistent Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) face third-ranked Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Wednesday evening (September 29).

Match 43 of the IPL 2021 edition will see an inconsistent Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) face third-ranked Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Wednesday evening (September 29). The match will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Talking about the form of both sides, RCB started their UAE leg with back-to-back defeats before mauling defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) by 54 runs to add two vital points in their kitty. On the other hand, Samson-led RR have yet again not lived upto expectations. With so much young talent and experienced foreign recruits, RR started the UAE leg with an inspiring come-from-behind win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) before failing to cross the finish line versus Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Delhi Capitals (DC). ALSO READ | In a first, IPL 2021's last two league matches to be played concurrently at 7:30 PM, confirms BCCI As the tournament is progressing towards the business end, RCB will be eager to get to 16 points and fnalise a spot in the last-four whereas RR need to start winning big moments and look to be more consistent as they are on the cusp of missing out on the playoffs once again. ALSO READ | Sanju Samson topples Shikhar Dhawan to take Orange Cap: List of top 5 run-getters in IPL 2021 so far Match prediction for RCB vs RR encounter: So far, Dubai's turf has been a good batting track with something for the pacers as well. Another moderate-scoring match, around 160-170, on the cards with Bengaluru surely having an edge due to their better form and a 11-10 lead in head-to-head tally. RR need to perform collectively, with their batters running out of time to adapt to the sticky surfaces, else another RCB win looks likely on Wednesday evening.

RCB vs RR, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Rajasthan Royals match?

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