Punjab&nbsp;opener KL Rahul scripted a new record after hitting 84 runs off 54 balls against Rajasthan&nbsp;at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore in the ongoing Indian&nbsp;Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;

He ensured victory for his team and also the third position&nbsp;in the league table.

So&nbsp;far, he has scored 376 runs and three half-centuries in this season. He is at the fourth position for the 'Orange Cap'.

Meanwhile, Mumbai is hanging at the fifth position and struggling to even make it to the play-off.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma, the Mumbai skipper has been completely out of form this season and gave up his opening position to batsman&nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav, who grabbed the opportunity with both hands.&nbsp;

Rahul's brilliant innings and Sharma's failures have led fans to believe that it's time for Rohit&nbsp;Sharma to step down as the&nbsp;opening batsman of the Indian cricket team&nbsp;and make way for Rahul.&nbsp;

A lot of fans expressing their thoughts on Rahul being the new opener for India.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KXIPvRR?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KXIPvRR</a> KL rahul should open for india in white ball cricket and rohit sharma at no. 4 as it will solve the middle muddle and makes the middle order very strong bcoz next to come is kartik dhoni and hardik pandya!!!
— Khushal Jobanputra (@Khushalkj777) <a href="https://twitter.com/Khushalkj777/status/993349111796580352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Yeah! Surely agree With You!! 
But This IPL season Is Not Gud for Rohit Sharma! 
And If KL RAHUL Will Not Be Part Of CWC19! 
It will surely be very hard for Team India to win! Coz Dhoni and Kohli can't win whole Tournament!
— HARSH (ABD17 & MSD7) (@Abd_MsdFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/Abd_MsdFC/status/993367479421407234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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KL Rahul looks equally gifted and more consistent than Rohit Sharma. How long Rohit will be given chances in the national side despite his lack of consistency? 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricbuzzLIVE?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricbuzzLIVE</a>
— The Eloquent Indian (@TheEloquentInd1) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheEloquentInd1/status/993188549175398400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CBhaveyoursay?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CBhaveyoursay</a> If IPL form is anything to go by, then kl Rahul and not Rohit sharma should now be Indian team opener! Isn't it?
— arnab (@arnabsaha610) <a href="https://twitter.com/arnabsaha610/status/992412759890518016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> It's high time that India should replace Rohit Sharma with KL Rahul or Samson in both T20 and ODI.
— CuriousRaj (@astroraj2) <a href="https://twitter.com/astroraj2/status/985822944097169408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rahul had created history on April 8 against Delhi Daredevils when he scored a fifty in just 14 balls, the fastest ever in the history of IPL.

With this record, he surpassed Sunil Narine and Yusuf Pathan's record.

Both Narine and Pathan had hit their respective fifties in 15 balls each.

Whereas, Sharma has just scored 231 runs so far disappointing all his fans and the Mumbai franchise.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KL Rahul smashed 84 runs off 54 balls in his previous game against Rajasthan

Punjab opener KL Rahul scripted a new record after hitting 84 runs off 54 balls against Rajasthan at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). He ensured victory for his team and also the third position in the league table. So far, he has scored 376 runs and three half-centuries in this season. He is at the fourth position for the 'Orange Cap'. Meanwhile, Mumbai is hanging at the fifth position and struggling to even make it to the play-off. Rohit Sharma, the Mumbai skipper has been completely out of form this season and gave up his opening position to batsman Suryakumar Yadav, who grabbed the opportunity with both hands. Rahul's brilliant innings and Sharma's failures have led fans to believe that it's time for Rohit Sharma to step down as the opening batsman of the Indian cricket team and make way for Rahul. A lot of fans expressing their thoughts on Rahul being the new opener for India. #KXIPvRR KL rahul should open for india in white ball cricket and rohit sharma at no. 4 as it will solve the middle muddle and makes the middle order very strong bcoz next to come is kartik dhoni and hardik pandya!!! — Khushal Jobanputra (@Khushalkj777) May 7, 2018 × Yeah! Surely agree With You!! But This IPL season Is Not Gud for Rohit Sharma! And If KL RAHUL Will Not Be Part Of CWC19! It will surely be very hard for Team India to win! Coz Dhoni and Kohli can't win whole Tournament! — HARSH (ABD17 & MSD7) (@Abd_MsdFC) May 7, 2018 × KL Rahul looks equally gifted and more consistent than Rohit Sharma. How long Rohit will be given chances in the national side despite his lack of consistency? #CricbuzzLIVE — The Eloquent Indian (@TheEloquentInd1) May 6, 2018 × #CBhaveyoursay If IPL form is anything to go by, then kl Rahul and not Rohit sharma should now be Indian team opener! Isn't it? — arnab (@arnabsaha610) May 4, 2018 × @BCCI It's high time that India should replace Rohit Sharma with KL Rahul or Samson in both T20 and ODI. — CuriousRaj (@astroraj2) April 16, 2018 × Rahul had created history on April 8 against Delhi Daredevils when he scored a fifty in just 14 balls, the fastest ever in the history of IPL. With this record, he surpassed Sunil Narine and Yusuf Pathan's record. Both Narine and Pathan had hit their respective fifties in 15 balls each. Whereas, Sharma has just scored 231 runs so far disappointing all his fans and the Mumbai franchise.

Replace Rohit Sharma with KL Rahul as opener in Indian Cricket team, demand fans

KL Rahul's blistering knock of 84 runs off 54 deliveries helped Punjab defeat Rajasthan at Holkar Stadium in Indore on Sunday.

Rahul laced seven boundaries and three sixes to notch up his third half-century in IPL 2018.&nbsp;

Alongside Marcus Stoinis, he stitched a blistering 63-run partnership to keep Punjab well alive in the race for the playoffs.&nbsp;

In starting, Punjab faltered after Chris Gayle departed early on scoring a single-digit figure, while Mayank Agarwal was dismissed off a shorter delivery by Ben Stokes.

Karun Nair then joined in KL Rahul in the middle to lace a crucial 50-run partnership for the fourth-wicket.

Punjab bowlers displayed a class attack to restrict opponent Rajasthan to a paltry total of 152 runs.

The Ajinkya Rahane-led team lost wickets in a heap to the spinners in the middle after Buttler made a fifty as an opener. 
&nbsp; 
Buttler took 39 balls to reach his half-century which included seven fours.

Apart from him, Sanju Samson and Shreyas Gopal are the only two players to reach the 20 digit mark.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman turned out to be the trump card for Punjab today as he took three crucial wickets in four wickets giving 27 runs.&nbsp;

Andrew Tye also claimed two wickets to reduced Rajasthan's early.&nbsp;

Earlier,&nbsp;Punjab skipper R Ashwin won the toss and opted to bowl against Rajasthan at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Sunday.&nbsp;

Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses from eight appearances and will be keen on bringing their campaign back on track.&nbsp;

The franchise have made an important change in their playing eleven. They have brought in Manoj Tiwary in place of veteran Yuvraj Singh. &nbsp;

Speaking after the toss, Ashwin said,""We will bowl first. I think this is going to be a good wicket. Better than the last game, we were expecting a high score in the last match but wicket was not that good."

&nbsp;"We are expecting a high scoring match today. Yuvraj misses out and Manoj comes in," he concluded.&nbsp;

Rajasthan, on the other hand, are also coming off two straight defeats and would also be looking to regain their lost momentum.

When asked about their strategy for today, its skipper Ajinkya Rahane said, "It's all about how we think. We are happy to bat first, the preparation has been fantastic and we are looking forward to bat first."

"We just got one change. Anureet Singh comes in for Dhawal Kulkarni. It's important for us to do well. Looks a good wicket. Every wicket is important, every run is important, every ball is important throughout the 40 overs and really looking forward to play well tonight," he added.

Rajasthan cannot afford another defeat from here as it would almost crush their dream of a play-off berth.

Teams: 
Rajasthan (Playing XI): Jos Buttler(w), D Arcy Short, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Anureet Singh, Jaydev Unadkat

Punjab (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal, Marcus Stoinis, Manoj Tiwary, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Axar Patel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ankit Rajpoot, Andrew Tye

This is is third half-century in IPL 2018

KL Rahul's blistering knock of 84 runs off 54 deliveries helped Punjab defeat Rajasthan at Holkar Stadium in Indore on Sunday. Rahul laced seven boundaries and three sixes to notch up his third half-century in IPL 2018. Alongside Marcus Stoinis, he stitched a blistering 63-run partnership to keep Punjab well alive in the race for the playoffs. In starting, Punjab faltered after Chris Gayle departed early on scoring a single-digit figure, while Mayank Agarwal was dismissed off a shorter delivery by Ben Stokes. Karun Nair then joined in KL Rahul in the middle to lace a crucial 50-run partnership for the fourth-wicket. Punjab bowlers displayed a class attack to restrict opponent Rajasthan to a paltry total of 152 runs. The Ajinkya Rahane-led team lost wickets in a heap to the spinners in the middle after Buttler made a fifty as an opener. Buttler took 39 balls to reach his half-century which included seven fours. Apart from him, Sanju Samson and Shreyas Gopal are the only two players to reach the 20 digit mark. Mujeeb Ur Rahman turned out to be the trump card for Punjab today as he took three crucial wickets in four wickets giving 27 runs. Andrew Tye also claimed two wickets to reduced Rajasthan's early. Earlier, Punjab skipper R Ashwin won the toss and opted to bowl against Rajasthan at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Sunday. Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses from eight appearances and will be keen on bringing their campaign back on track. The franchise have made an important change in their playing eleven. They have brought in Manoj Tiwary in place of veteran Yuvraj Singh. Speaking after the toss, Ashwin said,""We will bowl first. I think this is going to be a good wicket. Better than the last game, we were expecting a high score in the last match but wicket was not that good." "We are expecting a high scoring match today. Yuvraj misses out and Manoj comes in," he concluded. Rajasthan, on the other hand, are also coming off two straight defeats and would also be looking to regain their lost momentum. When asked about their strategy for today, its skipper Ajinkya Rahane said, "It's all about how we think. We are happy to bat first, the preparation has been fantastic and we are looking forward to bat first." "We just got one change. Anureet Singh comes in for Dhawal Kulkarni. It's important for us to do well. Looks a good wicket. Every wicket is important, every run is important, every ball is important throughout the 40 overs and really looking forward to play well tonight," he added. Rajasthan cannot afford another defeat from here as it would almost crush their dream of a play-off berth. Teams: Rajasthan (Playing XI): Jos Buttler(w), D Arcy Short, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Anureet Singh, Jaydev Unadkat Punjab (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal, Marcus Stoinis, Manoj Tiwary, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Axar Patel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ankit Rajpoot, Andrew Tye

IPL 2018: KL Rahul's 84* helps Punjab beat Rajasthan by 6 wickets

Punjab bowlers displayed a class attack to restrict opponent Rajasthan to a paltry total of 152 runs.

The Ajinkya Rahane-led team lost wickets in a heap to the spinners in the middle after Buttler made a fifty as an opener. 
&nbsp 
Buttler took 39 balls to reach his half-century which included seven fours.

Apart from him, Sanju Samson and Shreyas Gopal are the only two players to reach the 20 digit mark.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman turned out to be the trump card for Punjab today as he took three crucial wickets in four wickets giving 27 runs.&nbsp

Andrew Tye also claimed two wickets to reduced Rajasthan's early.&nbsp

Earlier,&nbspPunjab skipper R Ashwin won the toss and opted to bowl against Rajasthan at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Sunday.&nbsp

Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses from eight appearances and will be keen on bringing their campaign back on track.&nbsp

The franchise have made an important change in their playing eleven. They have brought in Manoj Tiwary in place of veteran Yuvraj Singh. &nbsp

Speaking after the toss, Ashwin said,""We will bowl first. I think this is going to be a good wicket. Better than the last game, we were expecting a high score in the last match but wicket was not that good."

&nbsp"We are expecting a high scoring match today. Yuvraj misses out and Manoj comes in," he concluded.&nbsp

Rajasthan, on the other hand, are also coming off two straight defeats and would also be looking to regain their lost momentum.

When asked about their strategy for today, its skipper Ajinkya Rahane said, "It's all about how we think. We are happy to bat first, the preparation has been fantastic and we are looking forward to bat first."

"We just got one change. Anureet Singh comes in for Dhawal Kulkarni. It's important for us to do well. Looks a good wicket. Every wicket is important, every run is important, every ball is important throughout the 40 overs and really looking forward to play well tonight," he added.

Rajasthan cannot afford another defeat from here as it would almost crush their dream of a play-off berth.

Teams: 
Rajasthan (Playing XI): Jos Buttler(w), D Arcy Short, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Anureet Singh, Jaydev Unadkat

Punjab (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal, Marcus Stoinis, Manoj Tiwary, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Axar Patel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ankit Rajpoot, Andrew Tye

The Ajinkya Rahane-led team lost wickets in a heap to the spinners

Punjab bowlers displayed a class attack to restrict opponent Rajasthan to a paltry total of 152 runs. The Ajinkya Rahane-led team lost wickets in a heap to the spinners in the middle after Buttler made a fifty as an opener. Buttler took 39 balls to reach his half-century which included seven fours. Apart from him, Sanju Samson and Shreyas Gopal are the only two players to reach the 20 digit mark. Mujeeb Ur Rahman turned out to be the trump card for Punjab today as he took three crucial wickets in four wickets giving 27 runs. Andrew Tye also claimed two wickets to reduced Rajasthan's early. Earlier,&nbspPunjab skipper R Ashwin won the toss and opted to bowl against Rajasthan at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Sunday. Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses from eight appearances and will be keen on bringing their campaign back on track. The franchise have made an important change in their playing eleven. They have brought in Manoj Tiwary in place of veteran Yuvraj Singh. Speaking after the toss, Ashwin said,""We will bowl first. I think this is going to be a good wicket. Better than the last game, we were expecting a high score in the last match but wicket was not that good." "We are expecting a high scoring match today. Yuvraj misses out and Manoj comes in," he concluded. Rajasthan, on the other hand, are also coming off two straight defeats and would also be looking to regain their lost momentum. When asked about their strategy for today, its skipper Ajinkya Rahane said, "It's all about how we think. We are happy to bat first, the preparation has been fantastic and we are looking forward to bat first." "We just got one change. Anureet Singh comes in for Dhawal Kulkarni. It's important for us to do well. Looks a good wicket. Every wicket is important, every run is important, every ball is important throughout the 40 overs and really looking forward to play well tonight," he added. Rajasthan cannot afford another defeat from here as it would almost crush their dream of a play-off berth. Teams: Rajasthan (Playing XI): Jos Buttler(w), D Arcy Short, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Anureet Singh, Jaydev Unadkat Punjab (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal, Marcus Stoinis, Manoj Tiwary, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Axar Patel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ankit Rajpoot, Andrew Tye

IPL 2018: Punjab bowling restricts Rajasthan to 152

Punjab skipper R Ashwin won the toss and opted to bowl against Rajasthan at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Sunday.&nbsp;

Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses from eight appearances and will be keen on bringing their campaign back on track.&nbsp;

The franchise have made an important change in their playing eleven. They have brought in Manoj Tiwary in place of veteran Yuvraj Singh. &nbsp;

Speaking after the toss, Ashwin said,""We will bowl first. I think this is going to be a good wicket. Better than the last game, we were expecting a high score in the last match but wicket was not that good."

&nbsp;"We are expecting a high scoring match today. Yuvraj misses out and Manoj comes in," he concluded.&nbsp;

Rajasthan, on the other hand, are also coming off two straight defeats and would also be looking to regain their lost momentum.

When asked about their strategy for today, its skipper Ajinkya Rahane said, "It's all about how we think. We are happy to bat first, the preparation has been fantastic and we are looking forward to bat first."

"We just got one change. Anureet Singh comes in for Dhawal Kulkarni. It's important for us to do well. Looks a good wicket. Every wicket is important, every run is important, every ball is important throughout the 40 overs and really looking forward to play well tonight," he added.

Rajasthan cannot afford another defeat from here as it would almost crush their dream of a play-off berth.

Teams: 
Rajasthan (Playing XI): Jos Buttler(w), D Arcy Short, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Anureet Singh, Jaydev Unadkat

Punjab (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal, Marcus Stoinis, Manoj Tiwary, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Axar Patel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ankit Rajpoot, Andrew Tye

Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins

Punjab skipper R Ashwin won the toss and opted to bowl against Rajasthan at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Sunday. Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses from eight appearances and will be keen on bringing their campaign back on track. The franchise have made an important change in their playing eleven. They have brought in Manoj Tiwary in place of veteran Yuvraj Singh. Speaking after the toss, Ashwin said,""We will bowl first. I think this is going to be a good wicket. Better than the last game, we were expecting a high score in the last match but wicket was not that good." "We are expecting a high scoring match today. Yuvraj misses out and Manoj comes in," he concluded. Rajasthan, on the other hand, are also coming off two straight defeats and would also be looking to regain their lost momentum. When asked about their strategy for today, its skipper Ajinkya Rahane said, "It's all about how we think. We are happy to bat first, the preparation has been fantastic and we are looking forward to bat first." "We just got one change. Anureet Singh comes in for Dhawal Kulkarni. It's important for us to do well. Looks a good wicket. Every wicket is important, every run is important, every ball is important throughout the 40 overs and really looking forward to play well tonight," he added. Rajasthan cannot afford another defeat from here as it would almost crush their dream of a play-off berth. Teams: Rajasthan (Playing XI): Jos Buttler(w), D Arcy Short, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Anureet Singh, Jaydev Unadkat Punjab (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal, Marcus Stoinis, Manoj Tiwary, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Axar Patel, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ankit Rajpoot, Andrew Tye

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

R Ashwin-led Punjab will look to get their campaign back on track after a couple of defeats when they lock horns with bottom-placed Rajasthan in the Indian Premier League today.

While Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses from eight appearances, Rajasthan are last with three victories and five defeats.

Like Punjab, Rajasthan too are coming off two straight defeats, but the red outfit is placed much better than its next opponents and is pretty much in with a chance to qualify for the playoffs.

Punjab would hope opening duo of Chris Gayle and KL Rahul get them off to a strong start again and on the other side, Jos Buttler would look to replicate his 18-ball fifty.

Punjab's batting mostly relies on opener Chris Gayle, who has accumulated 302 runs from just five games.

Even in their last encounter against Mumbai, Gayle slammed a 40-ball 50, laced with six boundaries and couple of sixes.&nbsp

In-form opener Lokesh Rahul, who faultered in the game against Mumbai, has been in good form, amassing 292 runs from eight games.&nbsp

The Punjab openers have been a major reason behind their success as the duo have handed a perfect start to their side on several occasions in this year's edition.&nbsp

Karun Nair has also been impressive after 209 runs from seven innings but veteran Yuvraj Singh, Aaron Finch and Mayank Agarwal are yet to make their presence felt in the middle-order.&nbsp

The trio's poor form could be a cause of concern for the team management and this is high time for them to come out with their best.&nbsp

In the bowling department, skipper Ravichandran Ashwin, along with medium-pacer Mohit Sharma add depth to the line-up.&nbsp

For Rajasthan, Sanju Samson and Ajinkya Rahane have scored the bulk of the runs for the team. &nbsp

Jos Buttler and D'Arcy Short are also fresh off blazing knocks.

In the bowling department, Jofra Archer's presence will be a key factor for the franchise going up against Punjab's top-heavy batting line-up.&nbsp

Rajasthan will also be banking on their all-rounders like K Gowtham and Ben Stokes to deliver in their dual roles.

Rajasthan cannot afford another defeat from here as it would almost crush their dream of a play-off berth.

Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses

R Ashwin-led Punjab will look to get their campaign back on track after a couple of defeats when they lock horns with bottom-placed Rajasthan in the Indian Premier League today. While Punjab are placed fourth in the table with five wins and three losses from eight appearances, Rajasthan are last with three victories and five defeats. Like Punjab, Rajasthan too are coming off two straight defeats, but the red outfit is placed much better than its next opponents and is pretty much in with a chance to qualify for the playoffs. Punjab would hope opening duo of Chris Gayle and KL Rahul get them off to a strong start again and on the other side, Jos Buttler would look to replicate his 18-ball fifty. Punjab's batting mostly relies on opener Chris Gayle, who has accumulated 302 runs from just five games. Even in their last encounter against Mumbai, Gayle slammed a 40-ball 50, laced with six boundaries and couple of sixes. In-form opener Lokesh Rahul, who faultered in the game against Mumbai, has been in good form, amassing 292 runs from eight games. The Punjab openers have been a major reason behind their success as the duo have handed a perfect start to their side on several occasions in this year's edition. Karun Nair has also been impressive after 209 runs from seven innings but veteran Yuvraj Singh, Aaron Finch and Mayank Agarwal are yet to make their presence felt in the middle-order. The trio's poor form could be a cause of concern for the team management and this is high time for them to come out with their best. In the bowling department, skipper Ravichandran Ashwin, along with medium-pacer Mohit Sharma add depth to the line-up. For Rajasthan, Sanju Samson and Ajinkya Rahane have scored the bulk of the runs for the team. Jos Buttler and D'Arcy Short are also fresh off blazing knocks. In the bowling department, Jofra Archer's presence will be a key factor for the franchise going up against Punjab's top-heavy batting line-up. Rajasthan will also be banking on their all-rounders like K Gowtham and Ben Stokes to deliver in their dual roles. Rajasthan cannot afford another defeat from here as it would almost crush their dream of a play-off berth.

IPL 2018: Match preview of Punjab vs Rajasthan

This will be the first time when Punjab and Rajasthan will come face to face in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.&nbsp&nbsp

The Ravichandran Ashwin-led team stands at number four with five wins, while the Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan are currently placed at the last position with just three win.&nbsp &nbsp

As the two teams will lock horns today, so, let's take a look at the players expected to perform.

1. Chris Gayle - 'The Universal Boss' has proved that he still has a lot of cricket left in him as he smashed a century and three half-centuries in a total of five IPL games he has played so far for Punjab. Also, he is the second player to hit most sixes, 23, so far. In his last game, he scored 40-ball-50 which included six fours and two sixes. Today the 'Gayle storm' is expected to bring spread his charisma to help his team get back to the winning momentum.&nbsp

2. Jos Buttler - The Rajasthan opener returned to his form in his last game against Delhi. He slammed 67 runs off just 26 balls which included huge seven sixes. Though the team failed to defeat Delhi, still his previous inning definitely makes him a player to watch out for.&nbsp

3. KL Rahul - He is among the top run scorers in IPL so far. But still, he has a long way to go to achieve the orange cap. Today is the day when this opening batsman can score well to make his team win and jump up to top three, as they currently stand at number four. In six games Rahul has scored 292 runs with 60 being his highest.&nbsp

4. D'Arcy Short - The Rajasthan opener scored 25-ball-44 including two fours and four sixes against Delhi. His great innings went in vain as the team couldn't turn in into a win. Today, he'll step down on the ground to lift his team from the bottom in the league table.&nbsp

5. Jaydev Unadkant - So far his performance in IPL has not been at par. But in his previous game, he managed to take three crucial wickets of Delhi. Purchased at a whopping price of Rs 11.5 crore, it is important for him to stand to his billing. His attack and length is good but needs to play with a different technique today to swing wickets in his team's favour.&nbsp

So overall, Punjab, which has an upper hand over Rajasthan, will fight to reach the top three, while Royals will be prepared to defeat the Kings coming their way.&nbsp &nbsp

The two teams will face each other for first time in IPL 2018

This will be the first time when Punjab and Rajasthan will come face to face in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The Ravichandran Ashwin-led team stands at number four with five wins, while the Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan are currently placed at the last position with just three win. As the two teams will lock horns today, so, let's take a look at the players expected to perform. 1. Chris Gayle - 'The Universal Boss' has proved that he still has a lot of cricket left in him as he smashed a century and three half-centuries in a total of five IPL games he has played so far for Punjab. Also, he is the second player to hit most sixes, 23, so far. In his last game, he scored 40-ball-50 which included six fours and two sixes. Today the 'Gayle storm' is expected to bring spread his charisma to help his team get back to the winning momentum. 2. Jos Buttler - The Rajasthan opener returned to his form in his last game against Delhi. He slammed 67 runs off just 26 balls which included huge seven sixes. Though the team failed to defeat Delhi, still his previous inning definitely makes him a player to watch out for. 3. KL Rahul - He is among the top run scorers in IPL so far. But still, he has a long way to go to achieve the orange cap. Today is the day when this opening batsman can score well to make his team win and jump up to top three, as they currently stand at number four. In six games Rahul has scored 292 runs with 60 being his highest. 4. D'Arcy Short - The Rajasthan opener scored 25-ball-44 including two fours and four sixes against Delhi. His great innings went in vain as the team couldn't turn in into a win. Today, he'll step down on the ground to lift his team from the bottom in the league table. 5. Jaydev Unadkant - So far his performance in IPL has not been at par. But in his previous game, he managed to take three crucial wickets of Delhi. Purchased at a whopping price of Rs 11.5 crore, it is important for him to stand to his billing. His attack and length is good but needs to play with a different technique today to swing wickets in his team's favour. So overall, Punjab, which has an upper hand over Rajasthan, will fight to reach the top three, while Royals will be prepared to defeat the Kings coming their way.

IPL 2018: Players to watch out for in Punjab vs Rajasthan clash

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The White House said today that PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping's meeting last week when they met for an "informal summit" was a "good thing". "I certainly think it's always good when other world leaders are getting along," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-106-dead-in-dust-storm-in-uttar-pradesh-rajasthan-134488">At least 106 dead in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-106-dead-in-dust-storm-in-uttar-pradesh-rajasthan-134488">dust</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-106-dead-in-dust-storm-in-uttar-pradesh-rajasthan-134488"> storm in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan</a>

At least 106 people were killed as a storm barrelled through a swathe of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, leaving a trail of destruction that brought down mud houses, uprooted trees and flattened crops, officials said on Thursday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-could-iran-do-if-trump-pulls-out-of-nuclear-deal-134477">What could Iran do if Trump pulls out of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-could-iran-do-if-trump-pulls-out-of-nuclear-deal-134477">nuclear</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-could-iran-do-if-trump-pulls-out-of-nuclear-deal-134477"> deal?</a>

President Donald Trump is expected to pull the United States out of the Iran nuclear agreement on May 12. Tehran signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, with China, France, Germany, Russia, Britain, and the United States in 2015.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-wenger-denied-final-flourish-as-atletico-madrids-costa-outlasts-arsenal-134491">Europa League: Wenger denied final flourish as Atletico Madrid's Costa outlasts Arsenal</a>

Diego Costa denied Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger a winning farewell as Atletico Madrid beat the London club 1-0 in the Europa League semi-final second leg at the Wanda Metropolitano in Madrid on Thursday night.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-praises-chinas-xi-as-trade-talks-begin-in-beijing-134482">Trump praises China's Xi as trade talks begin in Beijing</a>

US President Donald Trump on Thursday praised his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping as officials from the world's two largest economies began trade talks in Beijing, while state media said China would stand up to US bullying.

Modi-Xi meeting a good thing, always good when world leaders get along: White House The White House said today that PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping's meeting last week when they met for an "informal summit" was a "good thing". "I certainly think it's always good when other world leaders are getting along," White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. At least 106 dead in dust storm in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan At least 106 people were killed as a storm barrelled through a swathe of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, leaving a trail of destruction that brought down mud houses, uprooted trees and flattened crops, officials said on Thursday. What could Iran do if Trump pulls out of nuclear deal? President Donald Trump is expected to pull the United States out of the Iran nuclear agreement on May 12. Tehran signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, with China, France, Germany, Russia, Britain, and the United States in 2015. Europa League: Wenger denied final flourish as Atletico Madrid's Costa outlasts Arsenal Diego Costa denied Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger a winning farewell as Atletico Madrid beat the London club 1-0 in the Europa League semi-final second leg at the Wanda Metropolitano in Madrid on Thursday night. Trump praises China's Xi as trade talks begin in Beijing US President Donald Trump on Thursday praised his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping as officials from the world's two largest economies began trade talks in Beijing, while state media said China would stand up to US bullying.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A storm whipped through a large swathe of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh last night, killing over 100 people in a trail of destruction that brought down mud houses, uprooted trees and flattened crops.

At least 183 others were injured as a massive dust storm, followed by thunder showers, snapped power lines and sent tin roofs and street hoardings flying in parts of eastern Rajasthan and the adjoining areas of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp

The death toll this evening was 108. Seventy people were killed in UP and 83 injured. In Rajasthan, 38 died and another 100 were injured in the storm that hit the region around 7 pm.

The worst period lasted about 45 minutes, according to reports from Dholpur in Rajasthan. But the extent of the damage was known only this morning.&nbsp

The Met department today predicted another dust storm in parts of Rajasthan and UP in the next 48 hours.

A Met official told PTI in Jaipur that his department had been issuing dust storm warnings for the past couple of days.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) Additional Director General Mritunjay Mohapatra said the trigger for the storm was a cyclonic circulation over Haryana.

But also responsible were a western disturbance over north Pakistan and adjoining Jammu and Kashmir, and easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal.

In UP, Agra district was the worst hit, accounting for at least 43 deaths and injuries to 51 others, officials said.

Besides Agra, the other storm-hit UP districts were Bijnor, Bareli, Saharanpur, Pilibhit, Firozabad, Chitrakoot, Muzaffarnagar, Rae Bareli and Unnao.

In Rajasthan, Bharatpur district was the worst affected with 19 killed. Nine people died in Alwar and nine in Dholpur, officials said.

Two of those killed in Dholpur were from Agra in Uttar Pradesh.

Power supply was cut off in many areas as the squall uprooted trees and snapped electricity cables. Officials said it was being gradually restored.

In towns, the storm triggered traffic snarls. Some trains were delayed as overhead power cables broke.

In rural areas, there were reports of crop being damaged due to hailstorm. Farmers lost cattle and poultry. UP Relief Commissioner Sanjay Kumar said 160 heads of cattle were lost.

Most of the injured in Rajasthan have been discharged from hospitals.

Rajasthan's Disaster Management secretary Hemant Kumar Gera said some were undergoing primary treatment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over the deaths and directed officials to coordinate with states to ensure speedy relief and rehabilitation.

"Saddened by the loss of lives due to dust storms in various parts of India. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted quoting Modi.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was in poll-bound Karnataka today, campaigning with Modi. He directed officials to personally monitor relief operations, warning against any laxity.&nbsp

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje expressed grief over the calamity and said district authorities have been directed to ensure all possible help to victims.

Rajasthan government said contingency funds have been released to district administrations.

Family members of those dead will get Rs 4 lakh as compensation, and those injured will get between Rs 60,000 and Rs 2 lakh.&nbsp

At least 183 others were injured as a massive dust storm, followed by thunder showers, snapped power lines and sent tin roofs and street hoardings flying in parts of eastern Rajasthan and the adjoining areas of Uttar Pradesh

A storm whipped through a large swathe of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh last night, killing over 100 people in a trail of destruction that brought down mud houses, uprooted trees and flattened crops. At least 183 others were injured as a massive dust storm, followed by thunder showers, snapped power lines and sent tin roofs and street hoardings flying in parts of eastern Rajasthan and the adjoining areas of Uttar Pradesh. The death toll this evening was 108. Seventy people were killed in UP and 83 injured. In Rajasthan, 38 died and another 100 were injured in the storm that hit the region around 7 pm. The worst period lasted about 45 minutes, according to reports from Dholpur in Rajasthan. But the extent of the damage was known only this morning. The Met department today predicted another dust storm in parts of Rajasthan and UP in the next 48 hours. A Met official told PTI in Jaipur that his department had been issuing dust storm warnings for the past couple of days. India Meteorological Department (IMD) Additional Director General Mritunjay Mohapatra said the trigger for the storm was a cyclonic circulation over Haryana. But also responsible were a western disturbance over north Pakistan and adjoining Jammu and Kashmir, and easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal. In UP, Agra district was the worst hit, accounting for at least 43 deaths and injuries to 51 others, officials said. Besides Agra, the other storm-hit UP districts were Bijnor, Bareli, Saharanpur, Pilibhit, Firozabad, Chitrakoot, Muzaffarnagar, Rae Bareli and Unnao. In Rajasthan, Bharatpur district was the worst affected with 19 killed. Nine people died in Alwar and nine in Dholpur, officials said. Two of those killed in Dholpur were from Agra in Uttar Pradesh. Power supply was cut off in many areas as the squall uprooted trees and snapped electricity cables. Officials said it was being gradually restored. In towns, the storm triggered traffic snarls. Some trains were delayed as overhead power cables broke. In rural areas, there were reports of crop being damaged due to hailstorm. Farmers lost cattle and poultry. UP Relief Commissioner Sanjay Kumar said 160 heads of cattle were lost. Most of the injured in Rajasthan have been discharged from hospitals. Rajasthan's Disaster Management secretary Hemant Kumar Gera said some were undergoing primary treatment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over the deaths and directed officials to coordinate with states to ensure speedy relief and rehabilitation. "Saddened by the loss of lives due to dust storms in various parts of India. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted quoting Modi. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was in poll-bound Karnataka today, campaigning with Modi. He directed officials to personally monitor relief operations, warning against any laxity. Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje expressed grief over the calamity and said district authorities have been directed to ensure all possible help to victims. Rajasthan government said contingency funds have been released to district administrations. Family members of those dead will get Rs 4 lakh as compensation, and those injured will get between Rs 60,000 and Rs 2 lakh.

Dust storm kills over 100 in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan

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At least 27 people died afer a bus overturned and caught fire in Bihar's Motihari district.&nbsp;

The bus reportedly fell into a ditch, after which it caught fire.&nbsp;

The government has announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of each of the victims.&nbsp;

 
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Sixty-eight winners of the National Film Awards skipped the awards ceremony this afternoon in Delhi.&nbsp;

The winners were miffed that President Ram Nath Kovind was handing out only 11 of the National Awards, and that the rest would be handed out by Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dust-storm-kills-close-to-100-in-uttar-pradesh-rajasthan-134406">Dust storm kills close to 100 in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan</a>

A severe dust storm followed by thunder showers hit parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan overnight, killing nearly 100 people and leaving a trail of destruction.

Houses collapsed and trees and poles were uprooted in the storm that also led to power outages.

 
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US President Donald Trump said on Thursday his lawyer Michael Cohen did not use presidential campaign funds to pay Stormy Daniels as part of a contract he said was aimed at stopping the adult-film star from making "false and extortionist accusations" about an affair.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-45-youth-including-mba-phd-scholar-join-terrorist-ranks-in-2018-134419">Kashmir: 45 youths including MBA, PhD scholar join terrorist ranks in 2018</a>

At least 45 youths from the Kashmir Valley, including an MBA graduate and a PhD scholar, have joined militancy this year till mid-April, according to officials. The unusual surge in numbers has taken the security establishment by surprise.

27 killed after bus overturns, catches fire in Bihar's Motihari At least 27 people died afer a bus overturned and caught fire in Bihar's Motihari district. The bus reportedly fell into a ditch, after which it caught fire. The government has announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of each of the victims. National Film Awards: 68 winners skip ceremony because President Kovind does not present all awards Sixty-eight winners of the National Film Awards skipped the awards ceremony this afternoon in Delhi. The winners were miffed that President Ram Nath Kovind was handing out only 11 of the National Awards, and that the rest would be handed out by Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani. Dust storm kills close to 100 in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan A severe dust storm followed by thunder showers hit parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan overnight, killing nearly 100 people and leaving a trail of destruction. Houses collapsed and trees and poles were uprooted in the storm that also led to power outages. Porn star Stormy Daniels was not paid with campaign money: Trump US President Donald Trump said on Thursday his lawyer Michael Cohen did not use presidential campaign funds to pay Stormy Daniels as part of a contract he said was aimed at stopping the adult-film star from making "false and extortionist accusations" about an affair. Kashmir: 45 youths including MBA, PhD scholar join terrorist ranks in 2018 At least 45 youths from the Kashmir Valley, including an MBA graduate and a PhD scholar, have joined militancy this year till mid-April, according to officials. The unusual surge in numbers has taken the security establishment by surprise.

A 22-year-old man has allegedly been lynched in Rajasthan's Bikaner, news reports said Thursday.&nbsp;

The alleged lynching took place on Tuesday night.&nbsp;

The reports added that an FIR has been lodged against seven people. And that three persons, including the woman's father, have been arrested in connection with the case.&nbsp;

The reports said the woman was Hindu. The 22-year-old man, Saif Ali, was Muslim.&nbsp;

The reports said the woman had been sent to live with her relatives after her marriage had been arranged within her community.&nbsp;

But that her family members spotted Saif in their locality, and attacked him.&nbsp;

They then dumped his body on the outskirts of town.&nbsp;

Saif was taken to hospital after people informed police.&nbsp;

But, the reports said, Saif died from his injuries in hospital.&nbsp;

"Can't call it a 'love-jihad' case... In this age, when you study together, attraction can happen and then you don't see religion or community," ANI reported Superintendent of Police, Sawai Singh Godara, as saying.&nbsp;

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Three including girl's father arrested for lynching 22-year-old man in Bikaner. Superintendent of Police, Sawai Singh Godara says, 'Can't call it a 'love-jihad' case, in this age when you study together attraction can happen & then you don't see religion or community. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> <a href="https://t.co/IkrgrsVW4S">pic.twitter.com/IkrgrsVW4S</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/991974012657037315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The woman her friend belonged to different communities

A 22-year-old man has allegedly been lynched in Rajasthan's Bikaner, news reports said Thursday. The alleged lynching took place on Tuesday night. The reports added that an FIR has been lodged against seven people. And that three persons, including the woman's father, have been arrested in connection with the case. The reports said the woman was Hindu. The 22-year-old man, Saif Ali, was Muslim. The reports said the woman had been sent to live with her relatives after her marriage had been arranged within her community. But that her family members spotted Saif in their locality, and attacked him. They then dumped his body on the outskirts of town. Saif was taken to hospital after people informed police. But, the reports said, Saif died from his injuries in hospital. "Can't call it a 'love-jihad' case... In this age, when you study together, attraction can happen and then you don't see religion or community," ANI reported Superintendent of Police, Sawai Singh Godara, as saying. Three including girl's father arrested for lynching 22-year-old man in Bikaner. Superintendent of Police, Sawai Singh Godara says, 'Can't call it a 'love-jihad' case, in this age when you study together attraction can happen & then you don't see religion or community. #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/IkrgrsVW4S — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2018 ×

Rajasthan: Woman's family kills her friend before her arranged marriage

A severe dust storm followed by thunder showers hit parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan overnight, killing nearly 100 people and leaving a trail of destruction.

Houses collapsed and trees and poles were uprooted in the storm that also led to power outages.

In Uttar Pradesh, the high-intensity dust storm left 64 people dead and 47 injured.

In Rajasthan, 33 were killed, taking the combined death toll to 97. About 100 people were injured in the state, officials said.

In UP, Agra district was the worst hit, accounting for 36 deaths and injuries to 35 others, officials said.

Besides Agra, the other affected UP districts were Bijnor, Bareli, Saharanpur, Pilibhit, Firozabad, Chitrakoot, Muzaffarnagar, Rae Bareli and Unnao.

In Rajasthan, Dholpur district was the worst affected with 17 killed.

Two of those killed in Dholpur were from Agra in Uttar Pradesh.

"A few people are undergoing primary treatment while others were discharged. One critical patient from Dholpur was referred to Jaipur," Hemant Kumar Gera, Secretary, Disaster Management and Relief, said.

A detailed report of the disaster is awaited even as relief and rescue teams have been pressed into service to clear debris and restore power supply, Rajasthan he said.

Gera said contigency funds have been released to the respective district administration. He said Rs 4 lakh will be given to family members of deceased, Rs 2 lakh to persons sustaining 60 per cent injuries and Rs 60,000 to people with 40 to 50 per cent injuries.

Expressing sorrow at the loss of lives due to dust storms in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today directed officials to coordinate with states to ensure speedy relief and rehabilitation of those affected.

"Saddened by the loss of lives due to dust storms in various parts of India. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted quoting Modi.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje expressed grief over the calamity and said authorities concerned in the districts have been directed to ensure all possible help to victims.

"Condolence for families who lost their loved ones," she said on Twitter.

Taking note of the havoc caused by the dust storm in UP, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officers concerned to personally monitor relief operations and provide all necessary medical facilities to the affected.

He also said that no laxity will be tolerated in providing succour to the needy.&nbsp

The dust storm followed by thunder showers left a trail of destruction. Houses collapsed and trees and poles fell over

A severe dust storm followed by thunder showers hit parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan overnight, killing nearly 100 people and leaving a trail of destruction. Houses collapsed and trees and poles were uprooted in the storm that also led to power outages. In Uttar Pradesh, the high-intensity dust storm left 64 people dead and 47 injured. In Rajasthan, 33 were killed, taking the combined death toll to 97. About 100 people were injured in the state, officials said. In UP, Agra district was the worst hit, accounting for 36 deaths and injuries to 35 others, officials said. Besides Agra, the other affected UP districts were Bijnor, Bareli, Saharanpur, Pilibhit, Firozabad, Chitrakoot, Muzaffarnagar, Rae Bareli and Unnao. In Rajasthan, Dholpur district was the worst affected with 17 killed. Two of those killed in Dholpur were from Agra in Uttar Pradesh. "A few people are undergoing primary treatment while others were discharged. One critical patient from Dholpur was referred to Jaipur," Hemant Kumar Gera, Secretary, Disaster Management and Relief, said. A detailed report of the disaster is awaited even as relief and rescue teams have been pressed into service to clear debris and restore power supply, Rajasthan he said. Gera said contigency funds have been released to the respective district administration. He said Rs 4 lakh will be given to family members of deceased, Rs 2 lakh to persons sustaining 60 per cent injuries and Rs 60,000 to people with 40 to 50 per cent injuries. Expressing sorrow at the loss of lives due to dust storms in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today directed officials to coordinate with states to ensure speedy relief and rehabilitation of those affected. "Saddened by the loss of lives due to dust storms in various parts of India. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted quoting Modi. Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje expressed grief over the calamity and said authorities concerned in the districts have been directed to ensure all possible help to victims. "Condolence for families who lost their loved ones," she said on Twitter. Taking note of the havoc caused by the dust storm in UP, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officers concerned to personally monitor relief operations and provide all necessary medical facilities to the affected. He also said that no laxity will be tolerated in providing succour to the needy.

Dust storm kills close to 100 in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan

Young Rishabh Pant cracked a blistering 69 while captain Shreyas Iyer (50) hit his fourth half-century of the season as Delhi kept themselves in the race for IPL play-offs with a nervy four-run win over Rajasthan Royals at Feroz Shah Kotla.

Earlier, Rajasthan won the toss and opted to bowl first and invited Delhi to bat but were guilty of feeding the home batsmen with deliveries either too short or too full, making the job easy for the hosts after rain made it an 18-overs per side affair.

Rain brought a premature end to the Delhi's innings when the hosts were 196 for six in 17.1 overs and Rajasthan set a revised target of 151 from 12 overs under Duckworth/Lewis method.

After receiving some battering from Joss Buttler, who thrashed the home bowlers with seven sixes and four fours in his 67-run knock, Delhi restricted the Rajasthan to 146 for five to notch up the win.

Delhi have now moved up to sixth from the eighth position with this win.

Young Prithvi Shaw (47) was yet again in sublime touch and raised a 73-run stand with his captain for the second wicket after the side lost Colin Munro (0) in the fourth ball of the innings.

After Shaw's dismissal, Iyer and Rishabh Pant combined to punish the wayward Royals' bowlers, adding 92 runs for the third wicket in just 7.1 overs.

Iyer hit his fourth fifty in last five matches as he consumed 35 balls for his 50, hitting three sixes and as many fours.

Pant hammered the Rajasthan's bowlers all around the park in his 29-ball knock, studded with seven fours and five sixes.

Jaydev Unadkat (3/46) removed both of them in the 15th over but by then Delhi had put up enough runs on the board.

Vijay Shankar (17) came out with some lusty hits to help the hosts get close to 200-run mark.&nbsp;

Royals were off to a fiery start with Buttler going berserk. The England batsman smashed Avesh Khan for three sixes and a four and also punished Liam Plunkett as Rajasthan collected 58 from four Power-play overs.

Buttler completed his fifty off just 18 balls when he lofted Amit Mishra for a six. As many as five bowlers were employed by Delhi but all of them got severe punishment from Buttler.

It was Mishra who finally gave the breakthrough by having the Briton stumped in the seventh over. Rajasthan needed a big knock from Ben Stokes (1) but he could not do much.&nbsp;

Opener D'Arcy Short (44 off 25) was also dismissed but K Gowtham somehow kept the Rajasthan in the hunt by striking a six and a four off Plunkett in the 11th over.

Rajasthan needed 15 from the last over but Trent Boult yet again did the job, conceding only 10 runs.

Earlier, Shaw stroked the ball nicely as he picked the lengths quickly but ended up giving a caught-and-bowled chance on a turning ball to leg-break bowler Shreyas Gopal in the eighth over.

His 47 came off 25 balls as he punished the Rajasthan bowlers with four fours and as many sixes.

After two quiet overs, Shaw began the fireworks as he creamed off 16 runs from Dhawal Kulkarni's over, hitting the paceman for two sixes and a four.

Kulkarni had a difficult chance in his follow through in the last ball of the over but could not hold on to it.&nbsp;

Shaw was in good touch and continued to find boundaries. The next bowler in his firing line was Unadkat, whom he smashed for two fours and a six.&nbsp;

Iyer joined the party by launching Gopal for two sixes. The first was off a full-length ball and the next was pitched short.

The spinner dismissed Shaw but conceded his fourth six of the innings when new man Pant launched him for a massive six over long-on.

Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes were the only bowlers who had managed to contain the rampaging Delhi batsmen a bit but Pant did not spare the West Indian when he bowled full and found the ball in the stands. 
In no time, the two batsmen raised a 50-run stand, taking just 27 balls between them.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant cracked a blistering 69 while captain Shreyas Iyer (50) hit his fourth half-century of the season as Delhi kept themselves in the race for IPL play-offs

Young Rishabh Pant cracked a blistering 69 while captain Shreyas Iyer (50) hit his fourth half-century of the season as Delhi kept themselves in the race for IPL play-offs with a nervy four-run win over Rajasthan Royals at Feroz Shah Kotla. Earlier, Rajasthan won the toss and opted to bowl first and invited Delhi to bat but were guilty of feeding the home batsmen with deliveries either too short or too full, making the job easy for the hosts after rain made it an 18-overs per side affair. Rain brought a premature end to the Delhi's innings when the hosts were 196 for six in 17.1 overs and Rajasthan set a revised target of 151 from 12 overs under Duckworth/Lewis method. After receiving some battering from Joss Buttler, who thrashed the home bowlers with seven sixes and four fours in his 67-run knock, Delhi restricted the Rajasthan to 146 for five to notch up the win. Delhi have now moved up to sixth from the eighth position with this win. Young Prithvi Shaw (47) was yet again in sublime touch and raised a 73-run stand with his captain for the second wicket after the side lost Colin Munro (0) in the fourth ball of the innings. After Shaw's dismissal, Iyer and Rishabh Pant combined to punish the wayward Royals' bowlers, adding 92 runs for the third wicket in just 7.1 overs. Iyer hit his fourth fifty in last five matches as he consumed 35 balls for his 50, hitting three sixes and as many fours. Pant hammered the Rajasthan's bowlers all around the park in his 29-ball knock, studded with seven fours and five sixes. Jaydev Unadkat (3/46) removed both of them in the 15th over but by then Delhi had put up enough runs on the board. Vijay Shankar (17) came out with some lusty hits to help the hosts get close to 200-run mark. Royals were off to a fiery start with Buttler going berserk. The England batsman smashed Avesh Khan for three sixes and a four and also punished Liam Plunkett as Rajasthan collected 58 from four Power-play overs. Buttler completed his fifty off just 18 balls when he lofted Amit Mishra for a six. As many as five bowlers were employed by Delhi but all of them got severe punishment from Buttler. It was Mishra who finally gave the breakthrough by having the Briton stumped in the seventh over. Rajasthan needed a big knock from Ben Stokes (1) but he could not do much. Opener D'Arcy Short (44 off 25) was also dismissed but K Gowtham somehow kept the Rajasthan in the hunt by striking a six and a four off Plunkett in the 11th over. Rajasthan needed 15 from the last over but Trent Boult yet again did the job, conceding only 10 runs. Earlier, Shaw stroked the ball nicely as he picked the lengths quickly but ended up giving a caught-and-bowled chance on a turning ball to leg-break bowler Shreyas Gopal in the eighth over. His 47 came off 25 balls as he punished the Rajasthan bowlers with four fours and as many sixes. After two quiet overs, Shaw began the fireworks as he creamed off 16 runs from Dhawal Kulkarni's over, hitting the paceman for two sixes and a four. Kulkarni had a difficult chance in his follow through in the last ball of the over but could not hold on to it. Shaw was in good touch and continued to find boundaries. The next bowler in his firing line was Unadkat, whom he smashed for two fours and a six. Iyer joined the party by launching Gopal for two sixes. The first was off a full-length ball and the next was pitched short. The spinner dismissed Shaw but conceded his fourth six of the innings when new man Pant launched him for a massive six over long-on. Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes were the only bowlers who had managed to contain the rampaging Delhi batsmen a bit but Pant did not spare the West Indian when he bowled full and found the ball in the stands. In no time, the two batsmen raised a 50-run stand, taking just 27 balls between them.

IPL 2018: Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi beat Rajasthan by 4 runs in rain-hit game

Rajasthan skipper Ajikya Rahane on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field against Delhi.

The match, which was affected by the rain before the game started, has now been reduced to 18 overs per side.&nbsp

Talking about his strategy for today, Rahane said, "We are looking to chase. Wicket looks pretty good. We are going to back our bowlers in the first innings."

"We have been playing some good cricket but we need to do that over a period of 40 overs. The mood in our camp is very good. D'Arcy Short comes in for Ish Sodhi. Shreyas Gopal comes in as well," he concluded.

On being asked Shreyas Iyer the same, he said, " I don't think dew would come in. If it would have, it would have come by now. Lot of learnings from the last game. We were 74 for 4 and to reach close to 200 was really a commendable job."

"We took a lot of positives. We have got one change. Shahbaz Nadeem comes in for Rahul Tewatia," he added.

Teams: 
Delhi (Playing XI): Prithvi Shaw, Colin Munro, Shreyas Iyer(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Glenn Maxwell, Vijay Shankar, Liam Plunkett, Amit Mishra, Shahbaz Nadeem, Avesh Khan, Trent Boult

Rajasthan (Playing XI): Ajinkya Rahane(c), D Arcy Short, Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Jaydev Unadkat, Dhawal Kulkarni

Delhi is currently placed at the bottom of the IPL league table

Rajasthan skipper Ajikya Rahane on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field against Delhi. The match, which was affected by the rain before the game started, has now been reduced to 18 overs per side. Talking about his strategy for today, Rahane said, "We are looking to chase. Wicket looks pretty good. We are going to back our bowlers in the first innings." "We have been playing some good cricket but we need to do that over a period of 40 overs. The mood in our camp is very good. D'Arcy Short comes in for Ish Sodhi. Shreyas Gopal comes in as well," he concluded. On being asked Shreyas Iyer the same, he said, " I don't think dew would come in. If it would have, it would have come by now. Lot of learnings from the last game. We were 74 for 4 and to reach close to 200 was really a commendable job." "We took a lot of positives. We have got one change. Shahbaz Nadeem comes in for Rahul Tewatia," he added. Teams: Delhi (Playing XI): Prithvi Shaw, Colin Munro, Shreyas Iyer(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Glenn Maxwell, Vijay Shankar, Liam Plunkett, Amit Mishra, Shahbaz Nadeem, Avesh Khan, Trent Boult Rajasthan (Playing XI): Ajinkya Rahane(c), D Arcy Short, Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Shreyas Gopal, Jaydev Unadkat, Dhawal Kulkarni

IPL 2018: Rajasthan opt to field against Delhi, match reduced to 18 overs due to rain

The bottom-placed Delhi are in desperate need of a victory to survive in this year's Indian Premier League (IPL). 
&nbsp; 
The Shreyas Iyer-led side suffered a 13-run defeat at the hands of table-toppers Chennai.&nbsp;

They will face an inconsistent Rajasthan at the Feroz Shah Kotla ground, and the new skipper will be hoping to repeat the way Delhi performed against Kolkata to pick up the much-needed win.

Delhi have performed terrific with the bat in the previous two matches and will hope they can continue to do the same against Ajinkya Rahane-le side.&nbsp;

Captain Iyer and wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant have done the bulk of the scoring, amassing 306 and 257 runs respectively and the responsibility will be on them again to lead their team from the front.

Big guns Glenn Maxwell (126 runs in seven matches), Jason Roy (97 in three matches) and Colin Munro (63 runs in four matches) have not made significant contributions so far and Delhi would be hoping for them to start performing now.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan will also be looking to make a comeback after they suffered 11-run defeat at the hands of Hyderabad in a low-scoring affair.

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Despite Rahane scoring a 65 and Sanju Samson hitting a 40, they didn't get support from other batsmen.

Rahane and Samson have been their best batsmen this season but out-of-form Ben Stokes and Jos Butler have not been able effective with the bat.

As of now, Delhi are placed at the bottom of the IPL 2018 points table while Rajasthan stand sixth.

The Shreyas Iyer-led side suffered a 13-run defeat at the hands of table-toppers Chennai.

The bottom-placed Delhi are in desperate need of a victory to survive in this year's Indian Premier League (IPL). The Shreyas Iyer-led side suffered a 13-run defeat at the hands of table-toppers Chennai. They will face an inconsistent Rajasthan at the Feroz Shah Kotla ground, and the new skipper will be hoping to repeat the way Delhi performed against Kolkata to pick up the much-needed win. Delhi have performed terrific with the bat in the previous two matches and will hope they can continue to do the same against Ajinkya Rahane-le side. Captain Iyer and wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant have done the bulk of the scoring, amassing 306 and 257 runs respectively and the responsibility will be on them again to lead their team from the front. Big guns Glenn Maxwell (126 runs in seven matches), Jason Roy (97 in three matches) and Colin Munro (63 runs in four matches) have not made significant contributions so far and Delhi would be hoping for them to start performing now. Meanwhile, Rajasthan will also be looking to make a comeback after they suffered 11-run defeat at the hands of Hyderabad in a low-scoring affair. × Despite Rahane scoring a 65 and Sanju Samson hitting a 40, they didn't get support from other batsmen. Rahane and Samson have been their best batsmen this season but out-of-form Ben Stokes and Jos Butler have not been able effective with the bat. As of now, Delhi are placed at the bottom of the IPL 2018 points table while Rajasthan stand sixth.

IPL 2018: Match preview of Delhi and Rajasthan

Hyderabad take on Rajasthan in the first match of IPL super Sunday on April 29 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur.

Rajasthan, sitting at the mid of the points table would look to earn two crucial points tonight.

Whereas, Hyderabad is currently placed at number two&nbsp;and have gained the required momentum&nbsp;and skipper Kane Williamson would never want to lose it.

We have seen that Rajasthan were on their way to suffer back-to-back defeats before a superb cameo from all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham helped them to defeat Mumbai by three wickets last Sunday.

Also, with his explosive hitting, the immensely talented Sanju Samson is turning out to be Rajasthan's batting mainstay. It will interesting to see how Rajasthan's batting side will face Rashid Khan, the spin sensation of Hyderabad.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is still struggling with back injury issue but it does not seem to have affected Hyderabad too much as Basil Thampi and Sandeep Sharma have given the required strength to the team.

On the other hand, Ajinkya would not want to make any changes in the playing XI unless there is an injury issue.

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Playing XI (TBC):

Rajasthan: Ajinkya Rahane, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Heinrich Klassen, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, K Gowtham, Shreyas Gopal, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jaydev Unadkat

Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson, Wriddhiman Saha, Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Basil Thampi, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

Hyderabad take on Rajasthan in the first match of IPL super Sunday on April 29 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

Hyderabad take on Rajasthan in the first match of IPL super Sunday on April 29 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. Rajasthan, sitting at the mid of the points table would look to earn two crucial points tonight. Whereas, Hyderabad is currently placed at number two and have gained the required momentum and skipper Kane Williamson would never want to lose it. We have seen that Rajasthan were on their way to suffer back-to-back defeats before a superb cameo from all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham helped them to defeat Mumbai by three wickets last Sunday. Also, with his explosive hitting, the immensely talented Sanju Samson is turning out to be Rajasthan's batting mainstay. It will interesting to see how Rajasthan's batting side will face Rashid Khan, the spin sensation of Hyderabad. Bhuvneshwar Kumar is still struggling with back injury issue but it does not seem to have affected Hyderabad too much as Basil Thampi and Sandeep Sharma have given the required strength to the team. On the other hand, Ajinkya would not want to make any changes in the playing XI unless there is an injury issue. × Playing XI (TBC): Rajasthan: Ajinkya Rahane, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Heinrich Klassen, Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, K Gowtham, Shreyas Gopal, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jaydev Unadkat Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson, Wriddhiman Saha, Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Basil Thampi, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

IPL 2018: Match preview of Hyderabad vs Rajasthan

Self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, who currently serves a life term in Jodhpur jail, was heard talking about his plan his to come out of jail in an online audio clip that went viral yesterday.

The 17-minute-long audio clip had the religious leader talk about his plan to get his aides, Sharad and Shilpi, out first after which he shall also soon join his devotees.&nbsp;

Asaram, in the clip, was also heard saying that he is aware of some people eyeing to become the director of the ashram by levelling allegations against him. He stated that he is a follower of Mahatma Gandhi and that he will not resort to violence.&nbsp;

Asaram expressed his faith in higher judiciary saying that if there is anything amiss, it will be rectified by the higher courts.&nbsp;

The audio clip was shared on a Facebook fan page. Prison officials shared the possibility of a similar conversation to have taken place between Asaram and one of his devotees over a phone call on Friday.&nbsp;

Asaram aides, Sharad and Shilpi, have been sentenced to jail for 20 years.&nbsp;

Nearly five years after rape charges were levelled against Asaram Bapu, the Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court on April 25 awarded <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/asaram-appeared-broken-after-conviction-kept-telling-lawyers-to-do-something-132868">life imprisonment to the self-styled godman</a>, while the two other co-accused got a 20-year jail term.&nbsp;

The judgement in the case was pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail. The final arguments in the case were completed on April 7 and the court had kept the order reserved for April 25.

Asaram was arrested in Indore and brought to Jodhpur on September 1, 2013. He has been in judicial custody since then.

Asaram, in the clip, was also heard saying that he is aware of some eyeing to become the director of the ashram by levelling allegations against him

Self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, who currently serves a life term in Jodhpur jail, was heard talking about his plan his to come out of jail in an online audio clip that went viral yesterday. The 17-minute-long audio clip had the religious leader talk about his plan to get his aides, Sharad and Shilpi, out first after which he shall also soon join his devotees. Asaram, in the clip, was also heard saying that he is aware of some people eyeing to become the director of the ashram by levelling allegations against him. He stated that he is a follower of Mahatma Gandhi and that he will not resort to violence. Asaram expressed his faith in higher judiciary saying that if there is anything amiss, it will be rectified by the higher courts. The audio clip was shared on a Facebook fan page. Prison officials shared the possibility of a similar conversation to have taken place between Asaram and one of his devotees over a phone call on Friday. Asaram aides, Sharad and Shilpi, have been sentenced to jail for 20 years. Nearly five years after rape charges were levelled against Asaram Bapu, the Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court on April 25 awarded life imprisonment to the self-styled godman, while the two other co-accused got a 20-year jail term. The judgement in the case was pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail. The final arguments in the case were completed on April 7 and the court had kept the order reserved for April 25. Asaram was arrested in Indore and brought to Jodhpur on September 1, 2013. He has been in judicial custody since then.

I will return to my devotees after getting aides out: Asaram audio clip from Jodhpur prison goes viral

Despite giving a tough fight, Rajasthan fell 11 runs short to defeat Hyderabad at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday.

Skipper Ajinkay Rahane smashed an unbeaten at 65 but couldn't help his team taste victory in today's game.

Sanju Samson, who is franchise's most consistent player, again played a brilliant knock and made 40 runs off 30 balls which included three fours and one six.&nbsp 
&nbsp 
Earlier, Rajasthan's Jofra Archer took three wickets to restrict Hyderabad to a paltry total of 151 runs.

In his four overs, Archer gave just 26 runs. &nbsp

On the other side, Skipper Kane Williamson and Alex Hales added 92 runs off 67 balls for the second wicket to help their team set a decent total on board.&nbsp

While Shikhar Dhawan departed after making just six runs, Williamson smashed a brilliant half-century.

The skipper made 43-ball 63 before giving away his wicket to Sodhi.&nbsp

Alex Hales, who was playing a superb knock, lost his wicket to Gowtham after making 45 runs off just 39 balls.&nbsp

Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat against Rajasthan at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday.

"We are gonna have a bat. Day game and it looks like a very good surface. Just the one change. Hales comes in for Nabi." he said&nbsp

"The bowling has been going on nicely. The way we have adapted to the conditions has been superb," he added.&nbsp 
&nbsp 
Meanwhile, &nbspRajasthan have lost three matches so far and won the same to be at number five in the league table.

The Ajinkya Rahane team would be looking to bring their campaign back on track by defeating Hyderabad.

Talking about their strategy for today, Rahane said, "We had a couple of days off. It is important to switch off a bit. The preparation has been fantastic and the mood in the camp has been superb. "

"Ish Sodhi is in. Very good leg-spinner and has been doing well for New Zealand. Mahipal Lomror, a local guy who has been doing well comes in as well. We were looking to bat first as well," he added.

Both the teams are facing each other for the second time in this year's IPL.

Sanju Samson again played a brilliant knock and made 40 runs off 30 balls

Despite giving a tough fight, Rajasthan fell 11 runs short to defeat Hyderabad at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday. Skipper Ajinkay Rahane smashed an unbeaten at 65 but couldn't help his team taste victory in today's game. Sanju Samson, who is franchise's most consistent player, again played a brilliant knock and made 40 runs off 30 balls which included three fours and one six. Earlier, Rajasthan's Jofra Archer took three wickets to restrict Hyderabad to a paltry total of 151 runs. In his four overs, Archer gave just 26 runs. On the other side, Skipper Kane Williamson and Alex Hales added 92 runs off 67 balls for the second wicket to help their team set a decent total on board. While Shikhar Dhawan departed after making just six runs, Williamson smashed a brilliant half-century. The skipper made 43-ball 63 before giving away his wicket to Sodhi. Alex Hales, who was playing a superb knock, lost his wicket to Gowtham after making 45 runs off just 39 balls. Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat against Rajasthan at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday. "We are gonna have a bat. Day game and it looks like a very good surface. Just the one change. Hales comes in for Nabi." he said "The bowling has been going on nicely. The way we have adapted to the conditions has been superb," he added. Meanwhile, &nbspRajasthan have lost three matches so far and won the same to be at number five in the league table. The Ajinkya Rahane team would be looking to bring their campaign back on track by defeating Hyderabad. Talking about their strategy for today, Rahane said, "We had a couple of days off. It is important to switch off a bit. The preparation has been fantastic and the mood in the camp has been superb. " "Ish Sodhi is in. Very good leg-spinner and has been doing well for New Zealand. Mahipal Lomror, a local guy who has been doing well comes in as well. We were looking to bat first as well," he added. Both the teams are facing each other for the second time in this year's IPL.

IPL 2018: Rahane's 65 goes in vain as Hyderabad beat Rajasthan by 11 runs

Rajasthan's Jofra Archer took three wickets to restrict Hyderabad to a paltry total of 151 runs.

In his four overs, Archer gave just 26 runs. &nbsp

On the other side, Skipper Kane Williamson and Alex Hales added 92 runs off 67 balls for the second wicket to help their team set a decent total on board.&nbsp

While Shikhar Dhawan departed after making just six runs, Williamson smashed a brilliant half-century.

The skipper made 43-ball 63 before giving away his wicket to Sodhi.&nbsp

Alex Hales, who was playing a superb knock, lost his wicket to Gowtham after making 45 runs off just 39 balls.&nbsp

Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat against Rajasthan at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday.

"We are gonna have a bat. Day game and it looks like a very good surface. Just the one change. Hales comes in for Nabi." he said&nbsp

"The bowling has been going on nicely. The way we have adapted to the conditions has been superb," he added.&nbsp 
&nbsp 
Meanwhile, &nbspRajasthan have lost three matches so far and won the same to be at number five in the league table.

The Ajinkya Rahane team would be looking to bring their campaign back on track by defeating Hyderabad.

Talking about their strategy for today, Rahane said, "We had a couple of days off. It is important to switch off a bit. The preparation has been fantastic and the mood in the camp has been superb. "

"Ish Sodhi is in. Very good leg-spinner and has been doing well for New Zealand. Mahipal Lomror, a local guy who has been doing well comes in as well. We were looking to bat first as well," he added.

Both the teams are facing each other for the second time in this year's IPL.

Rajasthan (Playing XI): Ajinkya Rahane(c), Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Mahipal Lomror, Jaydev Unadkat, Dhawal Kulkarni, Ish Sodhi

Hyderabad (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan, Alex Hales, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Rashid Khan, Basil Thampi, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

In his four overs, Archer gave just 26 runs.

Rajasthan's Jofra Archer took three wickets to restrict Hyderabad to a paltry total of 151 runs. In his four overs, Archer gave just 26 runs. On the other side, Skipper Kane Williamson and Alex Hales added 92 runs off 67 balls for the second wicket to help their team set a decent total on board. While Shikhar Dhawan departed after making just six runs, Williamson smashed a brilliant half-century. The skipper made 43-ball 63 before giving away his wicket to Sodhi. Alex Hales, who was playing a superb knock, lost his wicket to Gowtham after making 45 runs off just 39 balls. Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat against Rajasthan at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday. "We are gonna have a bat. Day game and it looks like a very good surface. Just the one change. Hales comes in for Nabi." he said "The bowling has been going on nicely. The way we have adapted to the conditions has been superb," he added. Meanwhile, &nbspRajasthan have lost three matches so far and won the same to be at number five in the league table. The Ajinkya Rahane team would be looking to bring their campaign back on track by defeating Hyderabad. Talking about their strategy for today, Rahane said, "We had a couple of days off. It is important to switch off a bit. The preparation has been fantastic and the mood in the camp has been superb. " "Ish Sodhi is in. Very good leg-spinner and has been doing well for New Zealand. Mahipal Lomror, a local guy who has been doing well comes in as well. We were looking to bat first as well," he added. Both the teams are facing each other for the second time in this year's IPL. Rajasthan (Playing XI): Ajinkya Rahane(c), Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Mahipal Lomror, Jaydev Unadkat, Dhawal Kulkarni, Ish Sodhi Hyderabad (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan, Alex Hales, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Rashid Khan, Basil Thampi, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

IPL 2018: Jofra 3-fer restricts Hyderabad to 151

Hyderabad skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and opted to bat against Rajasthan at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday.

"We are gonna have a bat. Day game and it looks like a very good surface. Just the one change. Hales comes in for Nabi." he said&nbsp;

"The bowling has been going on nicely. The way we have adapted to the conditions has been superb," he added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, Rajasthan have lost three matches so far and won the same to be at number five in the league table.

The Ajinkya Rahane team would be looking to bring their campaign back on track by defeating Hyderabad.

Talking about their strategy for today, Rahane said, "We had a couple of days off. It is important to switch off a bit. The preparation has been fantastic and the mood in the camp has been superb. "

"Ish Sodhi is in. Very good leg-spinner and has been doing well for New Zealand. Mahipal Lomror, a local guy who has been doing well comes in as well. We were looking to bat first as well," he added.

Both the teams are facing each other for the second time in this year's IPL.

Rajasthan (Playing XI): Ajinkya Rahane(c), Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Mahipal Lomror, Jaydev Unadkat, Dhawal Kulkarni, Ish Sodhi

Hyderabad (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan, Alex Hales, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Rashid Khan, Basil Thampi, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

 
&nbsp;

Hyderabad skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and opted to bat against Rajasthan at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on Sunday. "We are gonna have a bat. Day game and it looks like a very good surface. Just the one change. Hales comes in for Nabi." he said "The bowling has been going on nicely. The way we have adapted to the conditions has been superb," he added. Meanwhile, Rajasthan have lost three matches so far and won the same to be at number five in the league table. The Ajinkya Rahane team would be looking to bring their campaign back on track by defeating Hyderabad. Talking about their strategy for today, Rahane said, "We had a couple of days off. It is important to switch off a bit. The preparation has been fantastic and the mood in the camp has been superb. " "Ish Sodhi is in. Very good leg-spinner and has been doing well for New Zealand. Mahipal Lomror, a local guy who has been doing well comes in as well. We were looking to bat first as well," he added. Both the teams are facing each other for the second time in this year's IPL. Rajasthan (Playing XI): Ajinkya Rahane(c), Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w), Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Mahipal Lomror, Jaydev Unadkat, Dhawal Kulkarni, Ish Sodhi Hyderabad (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan, Alex Hales, Kane Williamson(c), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Wriddhiman Saha(w), Rashid Khan, Basil Thampi, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

IPL 2018: Hyderabad win toss, opt to bat

Rajasthan desire to move up the pecking order got a boost following an incredible win a week ago, and the mid-table team would look to keep the momentum going in its IPL game against Hyderanad here tomorrow.

The Rajasthan are aware of the challenges facing them at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, a few days after Hyderabad got the better of Punjab to grab the second position in the standings.

While Hyderabad have won five out of their seven games so far, Rajasthan are placed fifth with three victories and as many losses.

Rajasthan were on their way to suffer back-to-back defeats before a superb cameo from all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham helped them stun Mumbai by three wickets last Sunday.

The hosts are looking forward to skipper Ajinkya Rahane to lead them by example, and the India Test vice-captain must be eager to live up to the expectations.

With his explosive hitting, the immensely talented Sanju Samson is turning out to be Rajasthan's batting mainstay, and another big one could be in the offing.

Samson is high on confidence having played a few significant knocks so far in the cash-rich league.

The English duo of Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler add muscle to Rajasthan's batting, and they are always keen to have a good hit in the middle.

Rajasthan's bowling department is shouldered by medium pacers Dhawal Kulkarni, Jaydev Unadkat Ben Laughlin and Krishnappa Gowtham, who bowls off-breaks.

It may be a way game for them but Hyderabad will still fancy their chances.

Despite losing their skipper David Warner as a result of the one-year ban imposed on the Australian run-machine due to ball tampering, Hyderabad showed tremendous fighting abilities and the very impressive win ratio is proof of that.

While revenge may on Rajasthan's mid having lost the first leg game by nine wickets, the home team will need to play out of its skin to come out winners tomorrow.

Batting lynchpin Shikhar Dhawan will look to make merry, having missed out on the previous match against Punjab.&nbsp;

A certain Kane Williamson is always an asset to any team while Manish Pandey's confidence has surely gone up after what proved to be a critical half-century against Punjab.

The likes of Deepak Hooda and Yusuf Pathan add depth to their batting.

The world's top-ranked T20 bowler, Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan has led Rajasthan's spin attack with some success, and they have the ever-reliable Bhuvneshwar Kumar spearhead the pace department.

Khan was outstanding against&nbsp;Punjab, returning figures of three for 19 in four overs. The likes of Shakib-al-Hasan, Billy Stanlake Siddaharth Kaul complete Hy7derabad's attack.

Teams (from): 
Hyderabad: Kane Williamson (captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shikhar Dhawan, Shakib Al Hasan, Manish Pandey, Carlos Brathwaite, Yusuf Pathan, Wriddhiman Saha, Rashid Khan, Ricky Bhui, Deepak Hooda, Siddarth Kaul, T Natarajan, Mohammad Nabi, Basil Thampi, K Khaleel Ahmed, Sandeep Sharma, Sachin Baby, Chris Jordan, Billy Stanlake, Tanmay Agarwal, Shreevats Goswami, Bipul Sharma, Mehdi Hasan, Alex Hale.

Rajasthan: Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Ankit Sharma, Anureet Singh, Jofra Archer, Stuart Binny, Aryaman Birla, Jos Buttler, Dushmantha Chameera, Prashant Chopra, Shreyas Gopal, Krishnappa Gowtham, Heinrich Klaasen, Dhawal Kulkarni, Ben Laughlin, Mahipal Lomror, Sudhesan Midhun, Sanju Samson, Jatin Saxena, D'Arcy Short, Ish Sodhi, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Jaydev Unadkat.

Rajasthan are aware of the challenges facing them at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, a few days after Hyderabad got the better of Punjab to grab the second position in the standings.

Rajasthan desire to move up the pecking order got a boost following an incredible win a week ago, and the mid-table team would look to keep the momentum going in its IPL game against Hyderanad here tomorrow. The Rajasthan are aware of the challenges facing them at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, a few days after Hyderabad got the better of Punjab to grab the second position in the standings. While Hyderabad have won five out of their seven games so far, Rajasthan are placed fifth with three victories and as many losses. Rajasthan were on their way to suffer back-to-back defeats before a superb cameo from all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham helped them stun Mumbai by three wickets last Sunday. The hosts are looking forward to skipper Ajinkya Rahane to lead them by example, and the India Test vice-captain must be eager to live up to the expectations. With his explosive hitting, the immensely talented Sanju Samson is turning out to be Rajasthan's batting mainstay, and another big one could be in the offing. Samson is high on confidence having played a few significant knocks so far in the cash-rich league. The English duo of Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler add muscle to Rajasthan's batting, and they are always keen to have a good hit in the middle. Rajasthan's bowling department is shouldered by medium pacers Dhawal Kulkarni, Jaydev Unadkat Ben Laughlin and Krishnappa Gowtham, who bowls off-breaks. It may be a way game for them but Hyderabad will still fancy their chances. Despite losing their skipper David Warner as a result of the one-year ban imposed on the Australian run-machine due to ball tampering, Hyderabad showed tremendous fighting abilities and the very impressive win ratio is proof of that. While revenge may on Rajasthan's mid having lost the first leg game by nine wickets, the home team will need to play out of its skin to come out winners tomorrow. Batting lynchpin Shikhar Dhawan will look to make merry, having missed out on the previous match against Punjab. A certain Kane Williamson is always an asset to any team while Manish Pandey's confidence has surely gone up after what proved to be a critical half-century against Punjab. The likes of Deepak Hooda and Yusuf Pathan add depth to their batting. The world's top-ranked T20 bowler, Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan has led Rajasthan's spin attack with some success, and they have the ever-reliable Bhuvneshwar Kumar spearhead the pace department. Khan was outstanding against Punjab, returning figures of three for 19 in four overs. The likes of Shakib-al-Hasan, Billy Stanlake Siddaharth Kaul complete Hy7derabad's attack. Teams (from): Hyderabad: Kane Williamson (captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shikhar Dhawan, Shakib Al Hasan, Manish Pandey, Carlos Brathwaite, Yusuf Pathan, Wriddhiman Saha, Rashid Khan, Ricky Bhui, Deepak Hooda, Siddarth Kaul, T Natarajan, Mohammad Nabi, Basil Thampi, K Khaleel Ahmed, Sandeep Sharma, Sachin Baby, Chris Jordan, Billy Stanlake, Tanmay Agarwal, Shreevats Goswami, Bipul Sharma, Mehdi Hasan, Alex Hale. Rajasthan: Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Ankit Sharma, Anureet Singh, Jofra Archer, Stuart Binny, Aryaman Birla, Jos Buttler, Dushmantha Chameera, Prashant Chopra, Shreyas Gopal, Krishnappa Gowtham, Heinrich Klaasen, Dhawal Kulkarni, Ben Laughlin, Mahipal Lomror, Sudhesan Midhun, Sanju Samson, Jatin Saxena, D'Arcy Short, Ish Sodhi, Ben Stokes, Rahul Tripathi, Jaydev Unadkat.

Rajasthan, Hyderabad face off in Jaipur

Nearly five years after rape charges were levelled against self-styled godman, Asaram Bapu, the Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court on Wednesday found him guilty.&nbsp;

Asaram's involvement was probed in two separate cases - one from Rajasthan and the other from Gujarat.

In the case registered in Rajasthan, a teenage girl from Shahajahanpur of Uttar Pradesh had accused Asaram of raping her at his ashram in Manai village near Jodhpur on the night of August 15, 2013, while in Gujarat, two Surat-based sisters lodged separate complaints against the self-styled godman and his son Narayan Sai, accusing them of rape.

However, ahead of the pronouncement of the verdict in the above cases, here are the developments that have taken place so far:

-Asaram was taken into police custody in August 2013, following which he was taken to Jodhpur Central jail. A month later, a potency test was conducted on him and was produced before a Jodhpur court. While the self-styled godman has filed a number of bail petitions, a total of 12 applications were rejected by the trial court, the Rajasthan High Court, and the Supreme Court.

-In November the same year, the charge sheet filed against Asaram and four others had indicated blackmail in exchange of sexual favours, after which the former was booked under Sections 342, 376, 506 and 509 of the Indian Penal Code, and Section 8 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO).

-In the years that followed, a number of the key witnesses in the case were attacked or went missing. In 2014, Asaram's personal aide was shot dead, while another associate was killed in 2015 in Muzaffarnagar. In the same year, two more witnesses were attacked by unidentified individuals, while another witness went missing from Lucknow.

-Ahead of the pronouncement of the verdict, security has been beefed up in three states, namely Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana. Furthermore, the judgement in the case will be pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail, fearing possible communal violence similar to that in Panchkula following the conviction of controversial godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a rape case.

-The Jodhpur Court also dismissed a petition seeking entry of media persons in Central Jail of Jodhpur for the coverage of the judgement.

-Furthermore, Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) will be imposed in Jodhpur till April 30.

Nearly five years after rape charges were levelled against self-styled godman, Asaram Bapu, the Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court on Wednesday found him guilty.

Nearly five years after rape charges were levelled against self-styled godman, Asaram Bapu, the Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court on Wednesday found him guilty. Asaram's involvement was probed in two separate cases - one from Rajasthan and the other from Gujarat. In the case registered in Rajasthan, a teenage girl from Shahajahanpur of Uttar Pradesh had accused Asaram of raping her at his ashram in Manai village near Jodhpur on the night of August 15, 2013, while in Gujarat, two Surat-based sisters lodged separate complaints against the self-styled godman and his son Narayan Sai, accusing them of rape. However, ahead of the pronouncement of the verdict in the above cases, here are the developments that have taken place so far: -Asaram was taken into police custody in August 2013, following which he was taken to Jodhpur Central jail. A month later, a potency test was conducted on him and was produced before a Jodhpur court. While the self-styled godman has filed a number of bail petitions, a total of 12 applications were rejected by the trial court, the Rajasthan High Court, and the Supreme Court. -In November the same year, the charge sheet filed against Asaram and four others had indicated blackmail in exchange of sexual favours, after which the former was booked under Sections 342, 376, 506 and 509 of the Indian Penal Code, and Section 8 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO). -In the years that followed, a number of the key witnesses in the case were attacked or went missing. In 2014, Asaram's personal aide was shot dead, while another associate was killed in 2015 in Muzaffarnagar. In the same year, two more witnesses were attacked by unidentified individuals, while another witness went missing from Lucknow. -Ahead of the pronouncement of the verdict, security has been beefed up in three states, namely Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana. Furthermore, the judgement in the case will be pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail, fearing possible communal violence similar to that in Panchkula following the conviction of controversial godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a rape case. -The Jodhpur Court also dismissed a petition seeking entry of media persons in Central Jail of Jodhpur for the coverage of the judgement. -Furthermore, Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) will be imposed in Jodhpur till April 30.

Asaram found guilty of rape: All you need to know

The Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court will pronounce its verdict today in a rape case against Asaram Bapu, a self-styled godman.&nbsp;

The judgement in the case will be pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Jodhpur court dismissed a petition seeking entry of media persons in Central Jail of Jodhpur for the coverage of Asaram Bapu rape case judgdment.&nbsp;

Security has also been beefed up outside Asaram rape case victim`s residence. "We have provided full security and safety to the victim and her family members and are alert," KB Singh, CO, Shahjahanpur said.

Delhi Police CPRO Deepender Pathak said that the police is alert and is in constant touch with concerned states and that adequate forces will immediately be deployed if required.&nbsp;

"Delhi police alert and in touch with concerned states. All field formations of police put on alert. Adequate forces will immediately be deployed if required. All officers will be present in their areas," Pathak said.&nbsp;

Jodhpur East (DCP) Amandeep Singh Kapoor said that all precautionary measures have been taken by the police to handle law and order ahead of the verdict tomorrow.&nbsp;

"We will not tolerate any kind of nonsense. We have taken all precautionary measures. We are confident that we will be able to handle law and order," Kapoor said.&nbsp;

A flag-march was also conducted by the security forces in Rajasthan`s Jodhpur ahead of the verdict.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the Union Home Ministry had reportedly asked Rajasthan, Gujarat and Haryana to tighten security and deploy additional forces.&nbsp;

These three states have a large number of followers of the self-styled godman.&nbsp;

The Ministry also told the three states to ensure that no violence takes place after the verdict.

On April 21, Jodhpur police said that Rajasthan High Court has beefed up security arrangements to ward off any untoward incident during the pronouncement of judgment in Asaram Bapu rape case.&nbsp;

The police further said that Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) will be imposed in Jodhpur till April 30.&nbsp;

On April 17, the court had decided to pronounce the verdict against self-styled godman in the rape case in Jodhpur Central Jail to avoid any law and order situation in the state.&nbsp;

The police had earlier filed a petition in the high court stating that Rajasthan may witness Panchkula-like violence, which broke out after the conviction of controversial godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a rape case.&nbsp;

The Jodhpur SC/ST Court on April 7 completed its hearing in the rape case against Asaram.

Asaram, who is currently lodged in the Jodhpur Central jail, is facing trial in two sexual assault cases: one in Rajasthan and the other in Gujarat.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from Ahmedabad: Followers of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Asaram?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Asaram</a> praying ahead of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsaramCaseVerdict?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsaramCaseVerdict</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gujarat?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gujarat</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qn96T8mNhz">pic.twitter.com/Qn96T8mNhz</a>
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In the case registered in Rajasthan, a teenage girl from Shahajahanpur of Uttar Pradesh had accused Asaram of raping her at his ashram in Manai village near Jodhpur on the night of 15 August 2013.

Asaram was arrested after the teenage girl had filed a complaint against him.

In Gujarat, two Surat-based sisters had lodged separate complaints against the self-styled godman and his son Narayan Sai, accusing them of rape.&nbsp;

The Jodhpur Police arrested Asaram on September 1, 2013, and since then, he is in prison.&nbsp;

The verdict against Asaram, on the charge of rape, will be pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail itself. The Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court had on Tuesday dismissed a petition seeking the entry of the media into the jail

The Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court will pronounce its verdict today in a rape case against Asaram Bapu, a self-styled godman. The judgement in the case will be pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail. Earlier on Tuesday, the Jodhpur court dismissed a petition seeking entry of media persons in Central Jail of Jodhpur for the coverage of Asaram Bapu rape case judgdment. Security has also been beefed up outside Asaram rape case victim`s residence. "We have provided full security and safety to the victim and her family members and are alert," KB Singh, CO, Shahjahanpur said. Delhi Police CPRO Deepender Pathak said that the police is alert and is in constant touch with concerned states and that adequate forces will immediately be deployed if required. "Delhi police alert and in touch with concerned states. All field formations of police put on alert. Adequate forces will immediately be deployed if required. All officers will be present in their areas," Pathak said. Jodhpur East (DCP) Amandeep Singh Kapoor said that all precautionary measures have been taken by the police to handle law and order ahead of the verdict tomorrow. "We will not tolerate any kind of nonsense. We have taken all precautionary measures. We are confident that we will be able to handle law and order," Kapoor said. A flag-march was also conducted by the security forces in Rajasthan`s Jodhpur ahead of the verdict. Earlier in the day, the Union Home Ministry had reportedly asked Rajasthan, Gujarat and Haryana to tighten security and deploy additional forces. These three states have a large number of followers of the self-styled godman. The Ministry also told the three states to ensure that no violence takes place after the verdict. On April 21, Jodhpur police said that Rajasthan High Court has beefed up security arrangements to ward off any untoward incident during the pronouncement of judgment in Asaram Bapu rape case. The police further said that Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) will be imposed in Jodhpur till April 30. On April 17, the court had decided to pronounce the verdict against self-styled godman in the rape case in Jodhpur Central Jail to avoid any law and order situation in the state. The police had earlier filed a petition in the high court stating that Rajasthan may witness Panchkula-like violence, which broke out after the conviction of controversial godman Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in a rape case. The Jodhpur SC/ST Court on April 7 completed its hearing in the rape case against Asaram. Asaram, who is currently lodged in the Jodhpur Central jail, is facing trial in two sexual assault cases: one in Rajasthan and the other in Gujarat. #Visuals from Ahmedabad: Followers of #Asaram praying ahead of #AsaramCaseVerdict. #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/Qn96T8mNhz — ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2018 × In the case registered in Rajasthan, a teenage girl from Shahajahanpur of Uttar Pradesh had accused Asaram of raping her at his ashram in Manai village near Jodhpur on the night of 15 August 2013. Asaram was arrested after the teenage girl had filed a complaint against him. In Gujarat, two Surat-based sisters had lodged separate complaints against the self-styled godman and his son Narayan Sai, accusing them of rape. The Jodhpur Police arrested Asaram on September 1, 2013, and since then, he is in prison.

Asaram verdict today: Security heightened in 3 states, entry of media banned

MS Dhoni-led Chennai take on Virat Kohli-led Bangalore on Wednesday, April 25 at Chinnaswamy stadium in an intriguing and extremely interesting clash between two old rivals.

Both the teams are coming off from a victory in their previous encounters and will be looking forward to winning tonight's match to earn two crucial points.

The Chennai-Bangalore is very celebrated since IPL's inception and they have played seven matches at Chinnaswamy stadium out of which both the teams have won 3-3 matches each and one was washed out.

Due to Cauvery&nbsp;protest, the home ground of Chennai has been shifted to Pune so, fans from Chennai from are rushing to the nearby stadiums to watch the matches of Chennai. Tonight at Chinnaswamy, a full house is expected but supporter of both the teams will be huge in number.

Earlier in the ongoing tournament, Bangalore team struggled but somehow has gained confidence after their win against Delhi in the last game.

Tonight's match is also very special for Virat Kohli as he will be leading in his 100th match in the T20 format. He is the third Indian after MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir to reach this feat.

Chennai is placed at position 2 with 8 points and the current squad of Chennai is shining bright, hence any change is not required.

Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis can give a required start for the team. Also, the middle order is quite settled in the presence of Suresh Raina, Ambayati Rayudu and Dhoni.

On the other hand, even Bangalore team have star batsmen like Quinton de Kock, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers.

As Chinnaswamy stadium is known for its batsmen friendliness pitch, hence, a high scoring match is expected tonight, which means more responsibility is on bowlers.

Whichever team is playing first, any total below 150 would be less as Chinnaswamy is high scoring pitch and both the teams have a massive batting line.

So today, a team with better bowling and fielding have higher chances of winning.

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Playing XI: (TBC)

Chennai: Shane Watson, Ambati Rayudu, Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni, Faf du Plessis, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Shardul Thakur

Bangalore: Quinton de Kock, Manan Vohra, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Corey Anderson, Mandeep Singh, Washington Sundar, Chris Woakes, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal

Both the teams are coming off from a victory in their previous encounters and will be looking forward to winning tonight's match to earn two crucial points

MS Dhoni-led Chennai take on Virat Kohli-led Bangalore on Wednesday, April 25 at Chinnaswamy stadium in an intriguing and extremely interesting clash between two old rivals. Both the teams are coming off from a victory in their previous encounters and will be looking forward to winning tonight's match to earn two crucial points. The Chennai-Bangalore is very celebrated since IPL's inception and they have played seven matches at Chinnaswamy stadium out of which both the teams have won 3-3 matches each and one was washed out. Due to Cauvery protest, the home ground of Chennai has been shifted to Pune so, fans from Chennai from are rushing to the nearby stadiums to watch the matches of Chennai. Tonight at Chinnaswamy, a full house is expected but supporter of both the teams will be huge in number. Earlier in the ongoing tournament, Bangalore team struggled but somehow has gained confidence after their win against Delhi in the last game. Tonight's match is also very special for Virat Kohli as he will be leading in his 100th match in the T20 format. He is the third Indian after MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir to reach this feat. Chennai is placed at position 2 with 8 points and the current squad of Chennai is shining bright, hence any change is not required. Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis can give a required start for the team. Also, the middle order is quite settled in the presence of Suresh Raina, Ambayati Rayudu and Dhoni. On the other hand, even Bangalore team have star batsmen like Quinton de Kock, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. As Chinnaswamy stadium is known for its batsmen friendliness pitch, hence, a high scoring match is expected tonight, which means more responsibility is on bowlers. Whichever team is playing first, any total below 150 would be less as Chinnaswamy is high scoring pitch and both the teams have a massive batting line. So today, a team with better bowling and fielding have higher chances of winning. × Playing XI: (TBC) Chennai: Shane Watson, Ambati Rayudu, Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni, Faf du Plessis, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Shardul Thakur Bangalore: Quinton de Kock, Manan Vohra, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Corey Anderson, Mandeep Singh, Washington Sundar, Chris Woakes, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal

IPL 2018: Match preview of Chennai and Bangalore

NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant on Tuesday said that the states in India's eastern region like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are keeping India backward, especially on social indicators.

Speaking at the first Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan Memorial Lecture at Jamia Millia Islamia University, Kant said, "Eastern part of India particularly states like Bihar, UP, Chattisgarh, MP, and Rajasthan are keeping India backward especially on social indicators. While we have improved on ease of doing business, we have remained backward on human development index."Kant further said that India is still 131 out of 188 countries in the Human Development Index (HDI).

Reacting to 'Challenges of Transforming India' he said that the part of southern and western India was doing well and growing speedily."And when the country's HDI has to improve and we have to focus on these social indicators. We are working on these things through Aspirational Districts Programme," he added.

Stressing upon the significance of sustainable growth, the NITI Aayog CEO said, "Education and health are vital and in these two areas India is lagging behind. Our learning outcomes are poor - a class 5 student is not able to do class 2 subtractions. Class 5 student is not able to read his mother tongue. Infant mortality rates are very high. Unless we improve on these aspects, it will be difficult to grow in a consistent way."

He also encouraged women to participate in decision-making process. He said, "There must be a conscious effort to frame policies to give women opportunities."

The other states he included in his list were Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan

NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant on Tuesday said that the states in India's eastern region like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are keeping India backward, especially on social indicators. Speaking at the first Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan Memorial Lecture at Jamia Millia Islamia University, Kant said, "Eastern part of India particularly states like Bihar, UP, Chattisgarh, MP, and Rajasthan are keeping India backward especially on social indicators. While we have improved on ease of doing business, we have remained backward on human development index."Kant further said that India is still 131 out of 188 countries in the Human Development Index (HDI). Reacting to 'Challenges of Transforming India' he said that the part of southern and western India was doing well and growing speedily."And when the country's HDI has to improve and we have to focus on these social indicators. We are working on these things through Aspirational Districts Programme," he added. Stressing upon the significance of sustainable growth, the NITI Aayog CEO said, "Education and health are vital and in these two areas India is lagging behind. Our learning outcomes are poor - a class 5 student is not able to do class 2 subtractions. Class 5 student is not able to read his mother tongue. Infant mortality rates are very high. Unless we improve on these aspects, it will be difficult to grow in a consistent way." He also encouraged women to participate in decision-making process. He said, "There must be a conscious effort to frame policies to give women opportunities."

States like UP, Bihar holding India back: NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant

Ashwin-led Punjab beat Delhi by four runs in a nail-biting encounter on Monday at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. Earlier, Gautam Gambhir won the toss and opted to bowl in front of Delhi audience as it was the first game Delhi is playing at its home ground.

Gautam Gambhir had made five changes for today's match but it went in vain as the batting order of Delhi team failed miserably.

Apart from Shreyas Iyer, no other players contributed to the team. Shreyas kept hopes for Delhi fans till the last but end up losing his wicket on the last ball of the innings.

Scoreboard:

Delhi:

Prithvi Shaw b Rajpoot 22 
Gautam Gambhir c Finch b A Tye 4 
Glenn Maxwell c A Tye b Rajpoot 12 
Shreyas Iyer c Finch b Muheeb 57 
Rishabh Pant b Mujeeb 4&nbsp; 
Daniel Christian run out 6 
Rahul Tewatia c Rahul b Tye 24 
Liam Plunkett c Karun b Sran 0 
Amit Mishra not out 1

 
Extras: (LB-2, WD-7) 9

 
Total (For 8 wickets in 20 overs) 139

 
Fall of Wickets: 1-25, 2-41, 3-42, 4-61, 5-76, 6-123, 7-124, 8-139

 
Bowling: Ankit Rajpoot 4-0-23-2, Barinder Sran 4-0-45-1, Andrew Tye 4-0-25-2, R Ashwin 4-0-19-0, Mujeeb ur Rehman 4-0-25-2.

Earlier Delhi stated the game well, the bowlers especially, Liam Plunket and U-19 champ Avesh Khan thrashed the top batting order as Punjab put up a modest 143-run target.

In the absence of Chris Gayle, Aaron Finch opened the innings with KL Rahul but could not give a required start to the team.

KL Rahul, who has been tremendous so far, scored 23 runs off 15 balls but Aaron Finch failed to fill Gayles space as under-19 star pacer Avesh Khan took his wicket in the second over itself.

Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Yuvraj Singh and David Miller scored 21, 34, 14 and 26 runs respectively.

Playing the first game of IPL 2018, Liam Plunkett produced his best bowling figures, he took three wickets by giving 17 runs in his 4-over spell. Also, Avesh Khan contributed well with some splendid deliveries and took two crucial wickets as well.

The batting order of Delhi team failed miserably

Ashwin-led Punjab beat Delhi by four runs in a nail-biting encounter on Monday at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. Earlier, Gautam Gambhir won the toss and opted to bowl in front of Delhi audience as it was the first game Delhi is playing at its home ground. Gautam Gambhir had made five changes for today's match but it went in vain as the batting order of Delhi team failed miserably. Apart from Shreyas Iyer, no other players contributed to the team. Shreyas kept hopes for Delhi fans till the last but end up losing his wicket on the last ball of the innings. Scoreboard: Delhi: Prithvi Shaw b Rajpoot 22 Gautam Gambhir c Finch b A Tye 4 Glenn Maxwell c A Tye b Rajpoot 12 Shreyas Iyer c Finch b Muheeb 57 Rishabh Pant b Mujeeb 4 Daniel Christian run out 6 Rahul Tewatia c Rahul b Tye 24 Liam Plunkett c Karun b Sran 0 Amit Mishra not out 1 Extras: (LB-2, WD-7) 9 Total (For 8 wickets in 20 overs) 139 Fall of Wickets: 1-25, 2-41, 3-42, 4-61, 5-76, 6-123, 7-124, 8-139 Bowling: Ankit Rajpoot 4-0-23-2, Barinder Sran 4-0-45-1, Andrew Tye 4-0-25-2, R Ashwin 4-0-19-0, Mujeeb ur Rehman 4-0-25-2. Earlier Delhi stated the game well, the bowlers especially, Liam Plunket and U-19 champ Avesh Khan thrashed the top batting order as Punjab put up a modest 143-run target. In the absence of Chris Gayle, Aaron Finch opened the innings with KL Rahul but could not give a required start to the team. KL Rahul, who has been tremendous so far, scored 23 runs off 15 balls but Aaron Finch failed to fill Gayles space as under-19 star pacer Avesh Khan took his wicket in the second over itself. Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Yuvraj Singh and David Miller scored 21, 34, 14 and 26 runs respectively. Playing the first game of IPL 2018, Liam Plunkett produced his best bowling figures, he took three wickets by giving 17 runs in his 4-over spell. Also, Avesh Khan contributed well with some splendid deliveries and took two crucial wickets as well.

IPL 2018: Ashwin-led Punjab outplay Delhi to reach top of points table

Pacers Liam Plunket and U-19 champ Avesh Khan thrashed the top batting order of Punjab, as Ashwin-led Punjab put up a modest 144-run target for Delhi on Monday at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium.

Earlier, Gautam Gambhir won the toss and opted to bowl in front of Delhi audience as it is the first game that Delhi is playing at its home ground.

In the absence of Chris Gayle, Aaron Finch opened the innings with KL Rahul but could not give a required start to the team.

Chris Gayle has been ruled out for today's match due&nbsp;to some health issues.

KL Rahul, who has been tremendous so far in the ongoing tournament, scored just 23 runs off 15 balls, Aaron Finch failed to fill Gayle's space as under-19 star pacer Avesh Khan took his wicket in the second over.

Middle batting order helped to push the run rate forward and set a decent score. Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Yuvraj Singh and David Miller scored 21, 34, 14 and 26 runs respectively.

Gautam Gambhir had made five changes for the game, Chris Morris, and Jason Roy are injured so they were replaced by Dan Christian and Liam Plunkett.&nbsp;

Playing the first game of IPL 2018, Liam Plunkett produced his best bowling figures, he took three wickets by giving 17 runs in his 4-over spell.

Also, Avesh Khan contributed well with some splendid deliveries and took two crucial wickets as well.

Fall Of Wickets:

6-1 (Aaron Finch, 1.3), 42-2 (Lokesh Rahul, 4.3), 60-3 (Mayank Agarwal, 7.3), 85-4 (Yuvraj Singh, 12.4), 116-5 (Karun Nair, 16.1), 127-6 (David Miller, 17.3), 140-7 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 19.1), 143-8 (Andrew Tye, 19.6)

Ashwin-led Delhi set 144-run target for Gautam-led Delhi

Pacers Liam Plunket and U-19 champ Avesh Khan thrashed the top batting order of Punjab, as Ashwin-led Punjab put up a modest 144-run target for Delhi on Monday at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. Earlier, Gautam Gambhir won the toss and opted to bowl in front of Delhi audience as it is the first game that Delhi is playing at its home ground. In the absence of Chris Gayle, Aaron Finch opened the innings with KL Rahul but could not give a required start to the team. Chris Gayle has been ruled out for today's match due to some health issues. KL Rahul, who has been tremendous so far in the ongoing tournament, scored just 23 runs off 15 balls, Aaron Finch failed to fill Gayle's space as under-19 star pacer Avesh Khan took his wicket in the second over. Middle batting order helped to push the run rate forward and set a decent score. Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Yuvraj Singh and David Miller scored 21, 34, 14 and 26 runs respectively. Gautam Gambhir had made five changes for the game, Chris Morris, and Jason Roy are injured so they were replaced by Dan Christian and Liam Plunkett. Playing the first game of IPL 2018, Liam Plunkett produced his best bowling figures, he took three wickets by giving 17 runs in his 4-over spell. Also, Avesh Khan contributed well with some splendid deliveries and took two crucial wickets as well. Fall Of Wickets: 6-1 (Aaron Finch, 1.3), 42-2 (Lokesh Rahul, 4.3), 60-3 (Mayank Agarwal, 7.3), 85-4 (Yuvraj Singh, 12.4), 116-5 (Karun Nair, 16.1), 127-6 (David Miller, 17.3), 140-7 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 19.1), 143-8 (Andrew Tye, 19.6)

IPL 2018: Gayle-less Punjab set 144-run target for Delhi

Krishnappa Gowtham became the star of the game as he made a fruitful score of 33 runs in only 11 balls to help Rajasthan seal their match against Mumbai.&nbsp

Gowtham remained unbeaten and smashed a six to clinch the win.&nbsp

Ajinkya Rahane-led side had a very slow start during their clash against Mumbai In the Indian Premier League (IPL) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

Both openers Ajinkya Rahane and Rahul Tripathi lost their wickets too early and went back to pavilion for 14 and 9 runs respectively.

Sanju Samson again played a brilliant inning for his team to recover from the early loss. &nbsp

He scored a half-century and made 52 off 39 balls before giving away his wicket to Bumrah.

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai had set a target of 168 runs against Rajasthan.

Batting first, the openers Suryakumar Yadav started off the innings well and scored 72 runs for the team playing at a strike rate of 153.19. On the other hand, another opener Evin Lewin went back to pavilion without scoring a single run.

Under-19 star Ishan Kishan played brilliant innings and scored 58 runs also Kieron Pollard contributed well with his bat.

Rohit Sharma, who is currently experimenting with his playing position came at number five but could not score a single run.

Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya scored 7 and 4 runs respectively.

Rajasthan bowling was slightly better from previous matches in the presence of their hidden gem Jofra Archer proved most economical for the team.

He took 3 crucial wickets in his 4-over spell and gave just 32 runs.

Dhawal Kulkarni also took 2 wickets and help the team to restrict Mumbai at 167.

Gowtham remained unbeaten and smashed a six to clinch the win.

Krishnappa Gowtham became the star of the game as he made a fruitful score of 33 runs in only 11 balls to help Rajasthan seal their match against Mumbai. Gowtham remained unbeaten and smashed a six to clinch the win. Ajinkya Rahane-led side had a very slow start during their clash against Mumbai In the Indian Premier League (IPL) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Both openers Ajinkya Rahane and Rahul Tripathi lost their wickets too early and went back to pavilion for 14 and 9 runs respectively. Sanju Samson again played a brilliant inning for his team to recover from the early loss. He scored a half-century and made 52 off 39 balls before giving away his wicket to Bumrah. Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai had set a target of 168 runs against Rajasthan. Batting first, the openers Suryakumar Yadav started off the innings well and scored 72 runs for the team playing at a strike rate of 153.19. On the other hand, another opener Evin Lewin went back to pavilion without scoring a single run. Under-19 star Ishan Kishan played brilliant innings and scored 58 runs also Kieron Pollard contributed well with his bat. Rohit Sharma, who is currently experimenting with his playing position came at number five but could not score a single run. Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya scored 7 and 4 runs respectively. Rajasthan bowling was slightly better from previous matches in the presence of their hidden gem Jofra Archer proved most economical for the team. He took 3 crucial wickets in his 4-over spell and gave just 32 runs. Dhawal Kulkarni also took 2 wickets and help the team to restrict Mumbai at 167.

IPL 2018: Gowtham's 11 ball-33 help Rajasthan beat Mumbai by 3 wickets

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai set a target of 168 runs against Rajasthan team at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur.

Batting first, the openers Suryakumar Yadav started off the innings well and scored 72 runs for the team playing at a strike rate of 153.19. On the other hand, another opener Evin Lewin went back to pavilion without scoring a single run.

Under-19 star Ishan Kishan played brilliant innings and scored 58 runs also Kieron Pollard contributed well with his bat.

Rohit Sharma, who is currently experimenting with his playing position came at number five but could not score a single run.

Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya scored 7 and 4 runs respectively.

Rajasthan bowling was slightly better from previous matches in the presence of their hidden gem Jofra Archer proved most economical for the team.

He took 3 crucial wickets in his 4-over spell and gave just 32 runs.

Dhawal Kulkarni also took 2 wickets and help the team to restrict Mumbai at 167.

Fall of wickets:

1-1 (Evin Lewis, 0.4), 130-2 (Ishan Kishan, 14.2), 135-3 (Suryakumar Yadav, 15.2), 136-4 (Rohit Sharma, 15.4), 154-5 (Krunal Pandya, 18.1), 159-6 (Hardik Pandya, 18.4), 159-7 (Mitchell McClenaghan, 18.5)

Earlier, Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat, after winning the toss he said, "It's a good pitch, runs on the board is always nice. It's a big ground. I think we can defend the target in bigger grounds."

He mentioned about Kieron Pollard current form, said, "Not really worried too much about Pollard's form. He hasn't got enough time with the bat. He's been a crucial part of the team. We back him and he's a match-winner for us. Same side for us."

Ajinkya Rahane mentioned about the replacements, Dhawal Kulkarni is playing at the place of Stuart Binny and Jofra Archer is back and has replaced Ben Laughlin.

Rahane also mentioned, "The wicket looks really good and it usually gets better and better as the game goes on. It's about starting fresh now after two losses. Mumbai is a quality team."

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai set a target of 168 runs against Rajasthan team at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. Batting first, the openers Suryakumar Yadav started off the innings well and scored 72 runs for the team playing at a strike rate of 153.19. On the other hand, another opener Evin Lewin went back to pavilion without scoring a single run. Under-19 star Ishan Kishan played brilliant innings and scored 58 runs also Kieron Pollard contributed well with his bat. Rohit Sharma, who is currently experimenting with his playing position came at number five but could not score a single run. Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya scored 7 and 4 runs respectively. Rajasthan bowling was slightly better from previous matches in the presence of their hidden gem Jofra Archer proved most economical for the team. He took 3 crucial wickets in his 4-over spell and gave just 32 runs. Dhawal Kulkarni also took 2 wickets and help the team to restrict Mumbai at 167. Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Evin Lewis, 0.4), 130-2 (Ishan Kishan, 14.2), 135-3 (Suryakumar Yadav, 15.2), 136-4 (Rohit Sharma, 15.4), 154-5 (Krunal Pandya, 18.1), 159-6 (Hardik Pandya, 18.4), 159-7 (Mitchell McClenaghan, 18.5) Earlier, Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat, after winning the toss he said, "It's a good pitch, runs on the board is always nice. It's a big ground. I think we can defend the target in bigger grounds." He mentioned about Kieron Pollard current form, said, "Not really worried too much about Pollard's form. He hasn't got enough time with the bat. He's been a crucial part of the team. We back him and he's a match-winner for us. Same side for us." Ajinkya Rahane mentioned about the replacements, Dhawal Kulkarni is playing at the place of Stuart Binny and Jofra Archer is back and has replaced Ben Laughlin. Rahane also mentioned, "The wicket looks really good and it usually gets better and better as the game goes on. It's about starting fresh now after two losses. Mumbai is a quality team."

IPL 2018: Mumbai set 168-run target for Rajasthan

Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat against Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan team at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur.&nbsp

After winning the toss, Rohit Sharma said, "It's a good pitch, runs on the board is always nice. It's a big ground. I think we can defend the target in bigger grounds."

He mentioned about Kieron Pollard current form, said, "Not really worried too much about Pollard's form. He hasn't got enough time with the bat. He's been a crucial part of the team. We back him and he's a match-winner for us. Same side for us."

Ajinkya Rahane mentioned about the replacements, Dhawal Kulkarni is playing at the place of Stuart Binny and Jofra Archer is back and has replaced Ben Laughlin.

Rahane also mentioned, "The wicket looks really good and it usually gets better and better as the game goes on. It's about starting fresh now after two losses. Mumbai is a quality team."

The playing XI:

Mumbai: Suryakumar Yadav, Evin Lewis, Ishan Kishan(w), Rohit Sharma(c), Krunal Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, Mitchell McClenaghan, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah, Mustafizur Rahman

Rajasthan: Ajinkya Rahane(c), Heinrich Klaasen, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w), Rahul Tripathi, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Dhawal Kulkarni, Shreyas Gopal, Jaydev Unadkat

Dhawal Kulkarni is playing at the place of Stuart Binny and Jofra Archer is back and has replaced Ben Laughlin

Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat against Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan team at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. After winning the toss, Rohit Sharma said, "It's a good pitch, runs on the board is always nice. It's a big ground. I think we can defend the target in bigger grounds." He mentioned about Kieron Pollard current form, said, "Not really worried too much about Pollard's form. He hasn't got enough time with the bat. He's been a crucial part of the team. We back him and he's a match-winner for us. Same side for us." Ajinkya Rahane mentioned about the replacements, Dhawal Kulkarni is playing at the place of Stuart Binny and Jofra Archer is back and has replaced Ben Laughlin. Rahane also mentioned, "The wicket looks really good and it usually gets better and better as the game goes on. It's about starting fresh now after two losses. Mumbai is a quality team." The playing XI: Mumbai: Suryakumar Yadav, Evin Lewis, Ishan Kishan(w), Rohit Sharma(c), Krunal Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, Mitchell McClenaghan, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah, Mustafizur Rahman Rajasthan: Ajinkya Rahane(c), Heinrich Klaasen, Sanju Samson, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler(w), Rahul Tripathi, Krishnappa Gowtham, Jofra Archer, Dhawal Kulkarni, Shreyas Gopal, Jaydev Unadkat

IPL 2018: Rohit Sharma opts to bat against Rajasthan

Ambati Rayudu and Suresh Raina slammed a half-century each to help Chennai set a decent target against Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 on Saturday.

Raydu slammed a powerful 37-ball 79 while Raina made 54 runs off 43 balls to lift Chennai to 182 runs after a loss of three wickets.

Raydu got run-out in a dramatic turn of event on the ground while Raina remained unbeaten.

Chennai Skipper MS Dhoni too contributed crucial 25 runs off just 12 balls.

Earlier, Kane Williamson won the toss and opted to bowl in their clash against Chennai at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

Playing at their home ground, Hyderabad will look to regain the winning momentum. After winning three matches in a row, Hyderabad tasted their first defeat in this year's IPL from Punjab.

However, in today's game Hyderabad entered the ground without Shikhar Dhawan. &nbsp

Speaking after the toss, Kane said, "We'll bowl. Not a strong advantage as the wicket remains similar generally. They have a strong batting line-up, the Chennai side so it's important we do the job first up."

"Billy Stanlake comes in for CJ and Ricky Bhui makes his debut, comes in for Shikhar. He (Dhawan) adds to any team so his inclusion would be good. It's a good chance for Ricky who's an exciting young talent. Think Shikhar will be ready for the next match. It's always a tough game. We'll play at the best of our ability and I am sure it'll be another good game," he added.

Meanwhile, Chennai skipper MS Dhoni said, "So far so good. It's not like we are relying on one individual. Everyone has contributed when it comes to bowling or batting. We always want the whole team to contribute so that there's not much pressure on one individual."

"It's always important that's why you are playing a team sport. The job of every individual becomes easy. What is important is someone soaks up the pressure. Imran Tahir is not fit so Faf comes his place."

Teams:

Chennai (Playing XI): Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Sam Billings, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma, Shardul Thakur

Hyderabad (Playing XI): Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ricky Bhui, Kane Williamson (c), Yusuf Pathan, Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Shakib Al Hasan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Billy Stanlake, Siddarth Kaul

Raydu slammed a powerful 37-ball 79 while Raina made 54 runs off 43 balls

Ambati Rayudu and Suresh Raina slammed a half-century each to help Chennai set a decent target against Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 on Saturday. Raydu slammed a powerful 37-ball 79 while Raina made 54 runs off 43 balls to lift Chennai to 182 runs after a loss of three wickets. Raydu got run-out in a dramatic turn of event on the ground while Raina remained unbeaten. Chennai Skipper MS Dhoni too contributed crucial 25 runs off just 12 balls. Earlier, Kane Williamson won the toss and opted to bowl in their clash against Chennai at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Playing at their home ground, Hyderabad will look to regain the winning momentum. After winning three matches in a row, Hyderabad tasted their first defeat in this year's IPL from Punjab. However, in today's game Hyderabad entered the ground without Shikhar Dhawan. Speaking after the toss, Kane said, "We'll bowl. Not a strong advantage as the wicket remains similar generally. They have a strong batting line-up, the Chennai side so it's important we do the job first up." "Billy Stanlake comes in for CJ and Ricky Bhui makes his debut, comes in for Shikhar. He (Dhawan) adds to any team so his inclusion would be good. It's a good chance for Ricky who's an exciting young talent. Think Shikhar will be ready for the next match. It's always a tough game. We'll play at the best of our ability and I am sure it'll be another good game," he added. Meanwhile, Chennai skipper MS Dhoni said, "So far so good. It's not like we are relying on one individual. Everyone has contributed when it comes to bowling or batting. We always want the whole team to contribute so that there's not much pressure on one individual." "It's always important that's why you are playing a team sport. The job of every individual becomes easy. What is important is someone soaks up the pressure. Imran Tahir is not fit so Faf comes his place." Teams: Chennai (Playing XI): Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Sam Billings, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma, Shardul Thakur Hyderabad (Playing XI): Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ricky Bhui, Kane Williamson (c), Yusuf Pathan, Manish Pandey, Deepak Hooda, Shakib Al Hasan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rashid Khan, Billy Stanlake, Siddarth Kaul

IPL 2018: Raina, Rayudu's half-centuries lift Chennai to 182

After finally managing to win their first match, the defending champions Mumbai will look to continue their momentum when they lock horns against beleaguered hosts Rajasthan on Saturday.&nbsp

The hosts were destroyed by Chennai opener Shane Watson’s brilliant century in the previous game.&nbsp

However, skipper Ajinkya Rahane needs to lead from the front and put confidence in his players.&nbsp

Despite having some big names, Rajasthan need some momentum to get back on track.&nbsp

Big players like Jos Buttler, D’Arcy Short have failed to deliver.&nbsp

But Ben Stokes, who was at the receiving end due to his poor form, played well against Delhi.&nbsp

Meanwhile, Mumbai faced three consecutive defeats, before managing to win their first match of the season. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Evin Lewis made 94 and 65 runs respectively.&nbsp

Rohit was the reason behind the team breaking the run of losses and he is again going to be a key man for Mumbai.&nbsp

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Led by pacer Jasprit Bumrah, Mumbai bowling attack looks good with likes of Mitchell McClenaghan, Hardik, Mustafizur Rahman, Mayank Markande and Krunal.&nbsp

While Mumbai will be looking to continue their winning momentum, Rajasthan will also look to make a comeback.&nbsp 
&nbsp

The hosts were destroyed by Chennai opener Shane Watson’s brilliant century in the previous game.

After finally managing to win their first match, the defending champions Mumbai will look to continue their momentum when they lock horns against beleaguered hosts Rajasthan on Saturday. The hosts were destroyed by Chennai opener Shane Watson’s brilliant century in the previous game. However, skipper Ajinkya Rahane needs to lead from the front and put confidence in his players. Despite having some big names, Rajasthan need some momentum to get back on track. Big players like Jos Buttler, D’Arcy Short have failed to deliver. But Ben Stokes, who was at the receiving end due to his poor form, played well against Delhi. Meanwhile, Mumbai faced three consecutive defeats, before managing to win their first match of the season. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Evin Lewis made 94 and 65 runs respectively. Rohit was the reason behind the team breaking the run of losses and he is again going to be a key man for Mumbai. × Led by pacer Jasprit Bumrah, Mumbai bowling attack looks good with likes of Mitchell McClenaghan, Hardik, Mustafizur Rahman, Mayank Markande and Krunal. While Mumbai will be looking to continue their winning momentum, Rajasthan will also look to make a comeback.

IPL 2018: Match Preview of Mumbai vs Rajasthan

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