<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni doesn&#39;t want to leave any stone unturned to help his franchise win the Indian Premier League (IPL) title for the third time.</p>

<p>Chennai&#39;s favourite son, who will again be leading the side, on Thursday was seen sweating it out in the nets, days before the XIth edition of the cash rich-tournament kicks off on April 7.</p>

<p><strong>Also </strong><strong>read:</strong><strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-heres-the-full-schedule-and-timings-of-all-matches-36524" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Here&#39;s the full schedule and timings of all matches</a></strong></p>

<p>Dhoni was rested from India squad for the recently-concluded Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Get that ball back from the car parking please! - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HomeSweetDen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HomeSweetDen</a> ???????? <a href="https://t.co/D7mCwp7Poe">pic.twitter.com/D7mCwp7Poe</a></p>
&mdash; Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/976825462126194688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The former captain&#39;s performance was, however, under scanner during South Africa tour, where India clinched the T20 and ODI series.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How&#39;s that for a cool off drive?! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HomeSweetDen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HomeSweetDen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://t.co/z85jVDHQwk">pic.twitter.com/z85jVDHQwk</a></p>
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<p>Dhoni has led CSK in all the eight seasons the club participated in. The team returns to the league after a gap of two years and the players as well as the fans are equally excited.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Joining Dhoni in their side&rsquo;s third title conquest are Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay, Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson and Harbhajan Singh among others.</p>

<p>The 11th edition of begins with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium.</p>

<p><strong>Team:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Retained:</strong><br />
MS Dhoni (15 cr)<br />
Suresh Raina (11 cr)<br />
Ravindra Jadeja (7 cr)<br />
<br />
<strong>Purchased:</strong><br />
Faf du Plessis (1.5 cr), Harbhajan Singh (2 cr), Dwayne Bravo (6.4 cr), Shane Watson (4 cr), Kedar Jadhav (7.8 cr), Ambati Rayudu (2.2 cr), Imran Tahir (1 cr), Karn Sharma (5 cr), Shardul Thakur (2.6 Cr), Jagadeesan Narayan (20L), Mitchell Santner (50L), Deepak Chahar (80L), KM Asif (40L), Lungi Ngidi (50 L), Kanishk Seth (20L), Dhruv Shorey (20L), M Vijay (2 cr), Sam Billings (1 cr), Mark Wood (1.5 cr), Kshitiz Sharma (20 L), Monu Singh (20L), Chaitanya Bishnoi (20L)<br />
(WION Web Team)</p>


Dhoni was rested from India squad for the recently-concluded Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni doesn't want to leave any stone unturned to help his franchise win the Indian Premier League (IPL) title for the third time. Chennai's favourite son, who will again be leading the side, on Thursday was seen sweating it out in the nets, days before the XIth edition of the cash rich-tournament kicks off on April 7. Also read: IPL 2018: Here's the full schedule and timings of all matches Dhoni was rested from India squad for the recently-concluded Nidahas Trophy in Sri Lanka. Get that ball back from the car parking please! - #Thala #HomeSweetDen ???????? pic.twitter.com/D7mCwp7Poe — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2018 × The former captain's performance was, however, under scanner during South Africa tour, where India clinched the T20 and ODI series. How's that for a cool off drive?! #Thala #HomeSweetDen #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/z85jVDHQwk — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2018 × Dhoni has led CSK in all the eight seasons the club participated in. The team returns to the league after a gap of two years and the players as well as the fans are equally excited. Joining Dhoni in their side’s third title conquest are Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay, Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson and Harbhajan Singh among others. The 11th edition of begins with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium. Team: Retained: MS Dhoni (15 cr) Suresh Raina (11 cr) Ravindra Jadeja (7 cr) Purchased: Faf du Plessis (1.5 cr), Harbhajan Singh (2 cr), Dwayne Bravo (6.4 cr), Shane Watson (4 cr), Kedar Jadhav (7.8 cr), Ambati Rayudu (2.2 cr), Imran Tahir (1 cr), Karn Sharma (5 cr), Shardul Thakur (2.6 Cr), Jagadeesan Narayan (20L), Mitchell Santner (50L), Deepak Chahar (80L), KM Asif (40L), Lungi Ngidi (50 L), Kanishk Seth (20L), Dhruv Shorey (20L), M Vijay (2 cr), Sam Billings (1 cr), Mark Wood (1.5 cr), Kshitiz Sharma (20 L), Monu Singh (20L), Chaitanya Bishnoi (20L) (WION Web Team)

Watch: MS Dhoni sweats it out in nets ahead of IPL 2018

<p>Rajiv Shukla, the chairman of Indian Premier League has confirmed that,&nbsp;for the first time, Decision Review System (DRS) will be used in the upcoming edition of IPL.</p>

<p>&quot;Yes, this idea has been going around for many years,&quot; said Rajiv Shukla in Press Trust of India.</p>

<p>The eleventh edition of IPL will get underway from April 7 and the decision makes the IPL, the second T20 league in the world, after Pakistan Super League, to incorporate technology to reduce umpiring howlers.</p>

<p>In the upcoming IPL,&nbsp;each team will get one review per innings.</p>

<div style="background:#eee;border:1px solid #ccc;padding:5px 10px;"><strong>What is Decision Review System (DRS)?</strong><br />
The Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS or DRS) is a technology-based system used in cricket to assist the match officials with their decision-making.</div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In the upcoming IPL, each team will get one review per innings

Rajiv Shukla, the chairman of Indian Premier League has confirmed that, for the first time, Decision Review System (DRS) will be used in the upcoming edition of IPL. "Yes, this idea has been going around for many years," said Rajiv Shukla in Press Trust of India. The eleventh edition of IPL will get underway from April 7 and the decision makes the IPL, the second T20 league in the world, after Pakistan Super League, to incorporate technology to reduce umpiring howlers. In the upcoming IPL, each team will get one review per innings. What is Decision Review System (DRS)? The Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS or DRS) is a technology-based system used in cricket to assist the match officials with their decision-making.

IPL to use Decision Review System, finally

<p>The 11th edition of Indian Premier League is set to start from April 7 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The first match will be played here only between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings as CSK has marked its return after a two-year ban after facing suspension for alleged spot-fixing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the world&rsquo;s most prestigious and cash-rich Twenty20 tournament is already is around the corner, lets us relive some amazing moments that IPL has given the fans in the last 10 years.</p>

<p>When we talk about the &#39;amazing moments&#39; then the acrobatic and stunning catches cannot be snubbed.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-as-ipl-begins-heres-a-throwback-to-all-pulsating-themes-of-previous-seasons-36446">IPL 2018: Here&#39;s a look back at the league&#39;s previous themes</a></strong></p>

<p>IPL celebrates&nbsp;fielding talent by giving away the award of &#39;Perfect Catch of the Match&#39; award is given to the best catch, selected by the television commentators at the end of every match that includes Rs 1 lakh prize money, a trophy and a VIVO phone.</p>

<p>Also, a cheque of Rs 10 lakhs is awarded to the player who takes the best catch of the season.</p>

<p>In the previous season of IPL, there were many spectacular catches but Suresh Raina&nbsp;was awarded as the winner of IPL best catch of the season.</p>

<p><em>Watch here some spectacular catches in the history of IPL:&nbsp;</em></p>

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In the previous season of IPL, there were many spectacular catches but Suresh Raina was awarded as the winner of IPL best catch of the season

The 11th edition of Indian Premier League is set to start from April 7 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The first match will be played here only between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings as CSK has marked its return after a two-year ban after facing suspension for alleged spot-fixing. As the world’s most prestigious and cash-rich Twenty20 tournament is already is around the corner, lets us relive some amazing moments that IPL has given the fans in the last 10 years. When we talk about the 'amazing moments' then the acrobatic and stunning catches cannot be snubbed. IPL 2018: Here's a look back at the league's previous themes IPL celebrates fielding talent by giving away the award of 'Perfect Catch of the Match' award is given to the best catch, selected by the television commentators at the end of every match that includes Rs 1 lakh prize money, a trophy and a VIVO phone. Also, a cheque of Rs 10 lakhs is awarded to the player who takes the best catch of the season. In the previous season of IPL, there were many spectacular catches but Suresh Raina was awarded as the winner of IPL best catch of the season. Watch here some spectacular catches in the history of IPL: × ×

IPL 2018: Throwback to some acrobatic catches in history of IPL

<p>Sunrisers Hyderabad, popularly known as &quot;The Orange Army,&quot; came into the existence in 2012 when they replaced former Hyderabad-based franchise Deccan Chargers after they were controversially terminated in the Indian Premier League.</p>

<p>The franchise is owned by Kalanithi Maran of&nbsp; Sun TV channel Network and has Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad, as its home ground.</p>

<p>They have a glorious record when they made it to the playoffs in the first season and claimed the IPL trophy in 2016.</p>

<p>Hyderabad always believed in having a power-pack bowling but it has been compromising with its batting side.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2018-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-653#photo-36184">IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list</a></strong></p>

<p>If we talk about this year&#39;s squad of Sunrisers Hyderabad, then again Hyderabad has decked-up talented bowlers as their &quot;trump cards&quot;, who will be guided by Lankan legend, Muttiah Muralitharan as their bowling coach.</p>

<p>Hyderabad had retained Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar for Rs 8.5 crore. The Indian pacer displayed his brilliance in India&#39;s recent tour to South Africa.</p>

<p>The spin department is quite strong as they the Orange Army has invested in Afghanistan&#39;s spin-star Rashid Khan who has a terrific record of 135 wickets in 91 T20s, averaging 15.14 at under 6 runs an over.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-kkr-karthiks-knight-riders-36421">IPL 2018: Squad analysis of KKR &mdash; &#39;Karthik&#39;s Knight Riders&#39;</a></strong></p>

<p>The in-form Ranji bowler Thangarasu Natarajan who played for Karnataka can also be a valuable wicket-taker. England bowler Chris Jordan might give a boost to the squad with his pace and swing.</p>

<p>Mehdi Hasan and Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh will provide variation in bowling, which is necessary for IPL that deals with injuries on regular basis due to a hectic schedule.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When it comes to batting, the top order is very aggressive as they have power hitter Shikhar Dhawan and Captain David Warner.</p>

<p>Apart from that, they have New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, who will provide stability at the crucial No-3 position.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-as-ipl-begins-heres-a-throwback-to-all-pulsating-themes-of-previous-seasons-36446">IPL 2018: Here&#39;s a look back at the league&#39;s previous themes</a></strong></p>

<p>The middle order is quite settled with Manish Pandey, Carlos Brathwaite, Wriddhiman Saha and the experienced Shakib-Al-Hasan.</p>

<p>Yusuf Pathan (IPL career batting strike rate of 145.49) will add value to the team with his destructive batting.</p>

<p>They have released some known players like Yuvraj Singh, Ben Cutting, Mustafizur Rahman, Ben Laughlin, Moises Henriques.</p>

<p>The squad is well balanced and the bench is very strong but Hyderabad have invested quite a lot in Manish Pandey, in that place they could have opted for some another batsman.</p>

<p>Under the guidance of coach Tom Moody, VVS Laxman and leadership of David Warner, the Orange Army is a strong contender in IPL-XI.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the squad list of Sunrisers Hyderabad:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Retained:</strong></p>

<p>David Warner (12.5 cr)</p>

<p>Bhuvneshwar Kumar (8.5 cr)</p>

<p><strong>Purchased:</strong></p>

<p>Shikhar Dhawan (5.2 cr), Shakib Al Hasan (2 cr), Kane Williamson (3 cr), Manish Pandey (11 cr), Carlos Brathwaite (2 cr), Yusuf Pathan (1.9 cr), Wriddhiman Saha (5 cr), Rashid Khan (9 cr), Ricky Bhui (20 L), Deepak Hooda (3.6 cr), Siddarth Kaul (3.8 cr), T Natarajan (40 L), Basil Thampi (95 L), Khaleel Ahmed (3 cr), Mohammad Nabi (1 cr), Sandeep Sharma (3 cr), Sachin Baby (20 L), Chris Jordan (1 cr), Billy Stanlake (50 L), Tanmay Agarwal (20 L), Shreevats Goswami (1 cr), Bipul Sharma (20 L), Mehdi Hasan (20 L)</p>

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<p>Indian Premier League is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining forms of T20 format. Since its inception, many records have been set by players. Here&#39;s the list of seven players with the highest strike rates in IPL so far (WION)</p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The squad is well balanced and the bench is very strong but Hyderabad have invested quite a lot in Manish Pandey, in that place they could have opted for some another batsman

Sunrisers Hyderabad, popularly known as "The Orange Army," came into the existence in 2012 when they replaced former Hyderabad-based franchise Deccan Chargers after they were controversially terminated in the Indian Premier League. The franchise is owned by Kalanithi Maran of Sun TV channel Network and has Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Hyderabad, as its home ground. They have a glorious record when they made it to the playoffs in the first season and claimed the IPL trophy in 2016. Hyderabad always believed in having a power-pack bowling but it has been compromising with its batting side. IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list If we talk about this year's squad of Sunrisers Hyderabad, then again Hyderabad has decked-up talented bowlers as their "trump cards", who will be guided by Lankan legend, Muttiah Muralitharan as their bowling coach. Hyderabad had retained Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar for Rs 8.5 crore. The Indian pacer displayed his brilliance in India's recent tour to South Africa. The spin department is quite strong as they the Orange Army has invested in Afghanistan's spin-star Rashid Khan who has a terrific record of 135 wickets in 91 T20s, averaging 15.14 at under 6 runs an over. IPL 2018: Squad analysis of KKR — 'Karthik's Knight Riders' The in-form Ranji bowler Thangarasu Natarajan who played for Karnataka can also be a valuable wicket-taker. England bowler Chris Jordan might give a boost to the squad with his pace and swing. Mehdi Hasan and Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh will provide variation in bowling, which is necessary for IPL that deals with injuries on regular basis due to a hectic schedule. When it comes to batting, the top order is very aggressive as they have power hitter Shikhar Dhawan and Captain David Warner. Apart from that, they have New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, who will provide stability at the crucial No-3 position. IPL 2018: Here's a look back at the league's previous themes The middle order is quite settled with Manish Pandey, Carlos Brathwaite, Wriddhiman Saha and the experienced Shakib-Al-Hasan. Yusuf Pathan (IPL career batting strike rate of 145.49) will add value to the team with his destructive batting. They have released some known players like Yuvraj Singh, Ben Cutting, Mustafizur Rahman, Ben Laughlin, Moises Henriques. The squad is well balanced and the bench is very strong but Hyderabad have invested quite a lot in Manish Pandey, in that place they could have opted for some another batsman. Under the guidance of coach Tom Moody, VVS Laxman and leadership of David Warner, the Orange Army is a strong contender in IPL-XI. Here is the squad list of Sunrisers Hyderabad: Retained: David Warner (12.5 cr) Bhuvneshwar Kumar (8.5 cr) Purchased: Shikhar Dhawan (5.2 cr), Shakib Al Hasan (2 cr), Kane Williamson (3 cr), Manish Pandey (11 cr), Carlos Brathwaite (2 cr), Yusuf Pathan (1.9 cr), Wriddhiman Saha (5 cr), Rashid Khan (9 cr), Ricky Bhui (20 L), Deepak Hooda (3.6 cr), Siddarth Kaul (3.8 cr), T Natarajan (40 L), Basil Thampi (95 L), Khaleel Ahmed (3 cr), Mohammad Nabi (1 cr), Sandeep Sharma (3 cr), Sachin Baby (20 L), Chris Jordan (1 cr), Billy Stanlake (50 L), Tanmay Agarwal (20 L), Shreevats Goswami (1 cr), Bipul Sharma (20 L), Mehdi Hasan (20 L) Indian Premier League is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining forms of T20 format. Since its inception, many records have been set by players. Here's the list of seven players with the highest strike rates in IPL so far (WION) ×

IPL 2018: Squad analysis of Sunrisers Hyderabad, Afghan bowler Rashid Khan is the trump card

<p>Several eyebrows were raised from different quarters when Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announced Dinesh Karthik as its new skipper, replacing Gautam Gambhir, for the XIth edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).</p>

<p>However, his splendid knock in recently concluded Nidahas Trophy, which took India to an impossible victory, has ended all the speculations being raised on his batting ability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His brilliant cameo of 29 runs off just 8 balls stole all the limelight as he hit a last-ball six to power India to a four-wicket win.</p>

<p>But in IPL, it will be Karthik&#39;s consistency to score runs and cricketing experience which KKR will be counting on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-time champions will be entering the upcoming edition with lightest squad of only 19 players making their way into the franchise.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-rajasthan-royals-the-prodigal-son-returns-36117" target="_blank">IPL 2018: Squad analysis of Rajasthan Royals, the prodigal son returns</a></strong></p>

<p>Hence, it would be fascinating to see how KKR performs under Karthik&#39;s leadership.</p>

<p>During the IPL auctions, Kolkata invested a lot on young uncapped talent, with India U-19 stars Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Shivam Mavi making their way to the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nagarkoti and Mavi impressed with their speeds in the ongoing U-19 World Cup and were bought by KKR for Rs 3.6 crore and Rs 3 crore respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from the two speedsters, KKR also bought U-19 top-order batsman Shubman Gill who scored three fifties in four matches at the U-19 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The franchise spent Rs 1.8 crore to buy his services for the upcoming season.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-squad-analysis-of-ms-dhonis-yellow-brigade-35660" target="_blank"> IPL 2018: Squad analysis of MS Dhoni&#39;s &#39;Yellow Brigade&#39;</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the strength in the squad, once again, lies in the spin bowling department.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The franchise retained West Indies off-spinner Sunil Narine, who became one of the key figures in the Gambhir era. With an uncanny ability to take wickets in crucial moments, Narine is surely one player on which the team can reply on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Narine, KKR also retained Piyush Chawla and Kuldeep Yadav via Right-to-Match which will further add to their spin bowling arsenal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another smart buy of KKR was batsman Chris Lynn. The Australian explosive was bought for Rs 9.6 crore and he can be a one-man army for the side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jamaican first-class cricketer Andre Russell will also remain Karthik&rsquo;s go-to option in this edition of the cash-rich tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the one gap which KKR failed to fill is of having any leadership figure in the squad. After Gambhir&rsquo;s departure, KKR should have looked for a player who can help the side get stability during crucial stages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dinesh Karthik current form is a positive development for the side but it will be interesting to see him perform the role of captain.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
Another loose area in the team is of having only 19 players in the squad, and with a long tournament in hand, a weak bench strength might cause troubles for them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even if one or two players pick up an injury, the side will find it hard to find replacements in the bench.</p>

<p>But overall, the side is strong on spin</p>

<p><strong>Retained:</strong><br />
Sunil Narine (12.5 cr)<br />
Andre Russell (8.5 cr)</p>

<p><strong>Purchased:</strong><br />
Mitchell Starc (9.4 cr), Chris Lynn (9.6 cr), Dinesh Karthik (7.4 cr), Robin Uthappa (6.4 cr), Piyush Chawla (4.2 cr), Kuldeep Yadav (5.8 cr), Shubman Gill (1.8 cr), Ishank Jaggi (20 L), Kamlesh Nagarkotti (3.2 cr), Nitish Rana (3.4 cr), Vinay Kumar (1 cr), Apoorv Wankhade (20 L), Rinku Singh (80 L), Shivam Mavi (3 cr), Mitchell Johnson (2 cr), Javon Searles (30 L), Cameron Delport (30 L)</p>

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<p>Born in Barbados, he has to complete seven-year residency period to debut for England cricket team (WION,Twitter)</p>
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His splendid knock in recently concluded Nidahas Trophy ended all the speculations

Several eyebrows were raised from different quarters when Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announced Dinesh Karthik as its new skipper, replacing Gautam Gambhir, for the XIth edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). However, his splendid knock in recently concluded Nidahas Trophy, which took India to an impossible victory, has ended all the speculations being raised on his batting ability. His brilliant cameo of 29 runs off just 8 balls stole all the limelight as he hit a last-ball six to power India to a four-wicket win. But in IPL, it will be Karthik's consistency to score runs and cricketing experience which KKR will be counting on. The two-time champions will be entering the upcoming edition with lightest squad of only 19 players making their way into the franchise. Also read: IPL 2018: Squad analysis of Rajasthan Royals, the prodigal son returns Hence, it would be fascinating to see how KKR performs under Karthik's leadership. During the IPL auctions, Kolkata invested a lot on young uncapped talent, with India U-19 stars Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Shivam Mavi making their way to the team. Nagarkoti and Mavi impressed with their speeds in the ongoing U-19 World Cup and were bought by KKR for Rs 3.6 crore and Rs 3 crore respectively. Apart from the two speedsters, KKR also bought U-19 top-order batsman Shubman Gill who scored three fifties in four matches at the U-19 World Cup. The franchise spent Rs 1.8 crore to buy his services for the upcoming season. Also read: IPL 2018: Squad analysis of MS Dhoni's 'Yellow Brigade' However, the strength in the squad, once again, lies in the spin bowling department. The franchise retained West Indies off-spinner Sunil Narine, who became one of the key figures in the Gambhir era. With an uncanny ability to take wickets in crucial moments, Narine is surely one player on which the team can reply on. After Narine, KKR also retained Piyush Chawla and Kuldeep Yadav via Right-to-Match which will further add to their spin bowling arsenal. Another smart buy of KKR was batsman Chris Lynn. The Australian explosive was bought for Rs 9.6 crore and he can be a one-man army for the side. Jamaican first-class cricketer Andre Russell will also remain Karthik’s go-to option in this edition of the cash-rich tournament. Meanwhile, the one gap which KKR failed to fill is of having any leadership figure in the squad. After Gambhir’s departure, KKR should have looked for a player who can help the side get stability during crucial stages. Dinesh Karthik current form is a positive development for the side but it will be interesting to see him perform the role of captain. Another loose area in the team is of having only 19 players in the squad, and with a long tournament in hand, a weak bench strength might cause troubles for them. Even if one or two players pick up an injury, the side will find it hard to find replacements in the bench. But overall, the side is strong on spin Retained: Sunil Narine (12.5 cr) Andre Russell (8.5 cr) Purchased: Mitchell Starc (9.4 cr), Chris Lynn (9.6 cr), Dinesh Karthik (7.4 cr), Robin Uthappa (6.4 cr), Piyush Chawla (4.2 cr), Kuldeep Yadav (5.8 cr), Shubman Gill (1.8 cr), Ishank Jaggi (20 L), Kamlesh Nagarkotti (3.2 cr), Nitish Rana (3.4 cr), Vinay Kumar (1 cr), Apoorv Wankhade (20 L), Rinku Singh (80 L), Shivam Mavi (3 cr), Mitchell Johnson (2 cr), Javon Searles (30 L), Cameron Delport (30 L) Born in Barbados, he has to complete seven-year residency period to debut for England cricket team (WION,Twitter) ×

IPL 2018: Squad analysis of KKR — 'Karthik's Knight Riders'

<p>The 11th edition of Indian Premier League is set to start from April 7 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.</p>

<p>The first match will be played here only between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, which marked their return after a two-year ban.</p>

<p>The world&rsquo;s most prestigious and cash-rich Twenty20 tournament is already becoming popular due to its latest anthem song, &#39;Ye Khel Hai Sher Jawano Ka Albelo Ka Mastano Ka...&#39;</p>

<p>The&nbsp;theme of IPL 2018 is sung by music director Raajeev V Bhalla and vocalist Siddharth Basrur.</p>

<p><em>Here is the video:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="et">Iss IPL ka yaaron kya kehna! ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> with - <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiDaredevils?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiDaredevils</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lionsdenkxip</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunRisers</a> <a href="https://t.co/FeOmCMd1v0">pic.twitter.com/FeOmCMd1v0</a></p>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/973224897659813888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video of the anthem has many happy moments of previous IPL seasons and it is campaigning &quot;#bestvsbest&quot;</p>

<p>But do you remember the first theme of IPL?</p>

<p>If not then let&#39;s relive through all the ten very popular and nostalgic themes of IPL since 2008 that have given us so many memories.</p>

<p><strong>IPL 2008: &quot;Cricket ka Karamrayudh&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2009: &quot;Ek Desh Ek Junun&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2010: &quot;Manoranjan ka Baap&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2011: &quot;Bharath Band&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2012: &quot;Yeh IPL hai boss&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2013: &quot;Koi Nahi Bachega!!!&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2014: &quot;Come On Bulaava Aaya Hai&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2015: &quot;India Ka Tyohaar&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2016: &quot;PISTAH&quot;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>IPL 2017: &quot;Va Re Va Cricket&quot;</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


If not then let's relive through all the ten themes of IPL since 2008 that have given us so many memories

The 11th edition of Indian Premier League is set to start from April 7 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The first match will be played here only between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, which marked their return after a two-year ban. The world’s most prestigious and cash-rich Twenty20 tournament is already becoming popular due to its latest anthem song, 'Ye Khel Hai Sher Jawano Ka Albelo Ka Mastano Ka...' The theme of IPL 2018 is sung by music director Raajeev V Bhalla and vocalist Siddharth Basrur. Here is the video: Iss IPL ka yaaron kya kehna! ❤️#VIVOIPL with - @ChennaiIPL @DelhiDaredevils @lionsdenkxip @KKRiders @mipaltan @rajasthanroyals @RCBTweets @SunRisers pic.twitter.com/FeOmCMd1v0 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 12, 2018 × The video of the anthem has many happy moments of previous IPL seasons and it is campaigning "#bestvsbest" But do you remember the first theme of IPL? If not then let's relive through all the ten very popular and nostalgic themes of IPL since 2008 that have given us so many memories. IPL 2008: "Cricket ka Karamrayudh" × IPL 2009: "Ek Desh Ek Junun" × IPL 2010: "Manoranjan ka Baap" × IPL 2011: "Bharath Band" × IPL 2012: "Yeh IPL hai boss" × IPL 2013: "Koi Nahi Bachega!!!" × IPL 2014: "Come On Bulaava Aaya Hai" × IPL 2015: "India Ka Tyohaar" × IPL 2016: "PISTAH" × IPL 2017: "Va Re Va Cricket" ×

IPL 2018: Here's a look back at the league's previous themes

<p>The 11th edition of Indian Premier League is set to start from April 7, 2018, with a glitzy opening ceremony at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first match will be played here only between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, which&nbsp;marked their return after a two-year ban.</p>

<p>On Monday, IPL has launched their anthem song which is based on the tune of an iconic song, &quot;Ye Desh Hai Veer Jawano Ka, Albelo Ka Mastano Ka...&quot;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Watch the video here:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The wait is finally over! The much anticipated <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> 2018 anthem is here, heralding the face-off of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BestvsBest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BestvsBest</a>! Is khel ka yaaron kya kehna! <a href="https://t.co/MgpvoJVjYC">pic.twitter.com/MgpvoJVjYC</a></p>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/973204655256756226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The lyrics of the anthem is, &quot;Ye Khel Hai Sher Jawano Ka Albelo Ka Mastano Ka...&quot; is sung by music director Raajeev V Bhalla and vocalist Siddharth Basrur.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2018-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-653#photo-36184">IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list</a></strong></p>

<p>The video of the anthem has many happy moments of previous IPL seasons and it is campaigning &quot;#bestvsbest&quot;</p>

<p>The original song is from the movie &#39;Naya Daur&#39; which was released in 1957. The song was sung by a singing stalwart, Mohammad Rafi and was pictured on veteran actor Dilip Kumar and Vyjayanthimala.</p>

<p>The beats of this song are very energetic and do have dance-inducing lyrics.</p>

<p>Apart from being the favourite wedding dance, this tune will now become the heartbeat of IPL fans.</p>

<p><em>Watch the original song:</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Apart from being the favourite wedding dance, this tune will now become the heartbeat of IPL fans

The 11th edition of Indian Premier League is set to start from April 7, 2018, with a glitzy opening ceremony at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The first match will be played here only between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, which marked their return after a two-year ban. On Monday, IPL has launched their anthem song which is based on the tune of an iconic song, "Ye Desh Hai Veer Jawano Ka, Albelo Ka Mastano Ka..." Watch the video here: The wait is finally over! The much anticipated #VIVOIPL 2018 anthem is here, heralding the face-off of the #BestvsBest! Is khel ka yaaron kya kehna! pic.twitter.com/MgpvoJVjYC — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 12, 2018 × The lyrics of the anthem is, "Ye Khel Hai Sher Jawano Ka Albelo Ka Mastano Ka..." is sung by music director Raajeev V Bhalla and vocalist Siddharth Basrur. IPL 2018: All teams and their squad list The video of the anthem has many happy moments of previous IPL seasons and it is campaigning "#bestvsbest" The original song is from the movie 'Naya Daur' which was released in 1957. The song was sung by a singing stalwart, Mohammad Rafi and was pictured on veteran actor Dilip Kumar and Vyjayanthimala. The beats of this song are very energetic and do have dance-inducing lyrics. Apart from being the favourite wedding dance, this tune will now become the heartbeat of IPL fans. Watch the original song: ×

2018 IPL anthem: 'Ye khel hai sher jawano ka albelo ka mastano ka...'

<p>Kings XI Punjab beat Royal Challengers Bangalore by 19 runs to stay afloat in the Indian Premier League, in Bengaluru on Friday.</p>

<p>Put into bat, Kings XI Punjab scored 138 for 7 in their IPL match against Royal Challengers Bangalore.</p>

<p>Axar Patel top-scored for Kings XI with a 17-ball 38 not out.</p>

<p>For RCB, Aniket Choudhary and Yuzvendra Chahal got the most wickets with two scalps each.</p>

<p>In reply, RCB were all-out for 119 in 19 overs with Madeep Singh scoring 46 off 40 balls.</p>

<p>Sandeep Sharma (3/22 in 4 overs) removed Chris Gayle, skipper Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers to set up the match for KXIP. Axar (3/11 in 3 overs) also got his share of scalps.</p>

<p>Skipper Glenn Maxwell and Mohit Sharma got couple of wickets each.</p>

<p>KXIP now has 10 points from 10 games while RCB stay put at last position with 5 points from 11 games.</p>

<p>(PTI)</p>


RCB were all-out for 119 in 19 overs with Madeep Singh scoring 46 off 40 balls. Kings XI Punjab scored 138 for 7

Kings XI Punjab beat Royal Challengers Bangalore by 19 runs to stay afloat in the Indian Premier League, in Bengaluru on Friday. Put into bat, Kings XI Punjab scored 138 for 7 in their IPL match against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Axar Patel top-scored for Kings XI with a 17-ball 38 not out. For RCB, Aniket Choudhary and Yuzvendra Chahal got the most wickets with two scalps each. In reply, RCB were all-out for 119 in 19 overs with Madeep Singh scoring 46 off 40 balls. Sandeep Sharma (3/22 in 4 overs) removed Chris Gayle, skipper Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers to set up the match for KXIP. Axar (3/11 in 3 overs) also got his share of scalps. Skipper Glenn Maxwell and Mohit Sharma got couple of wickets each. KXIP now has 10 points from 10 games while RCB stay put at last position with 5 points from 11 games. (PTI)

IPL 2017: Kings XI Punjab beat Royal Challengers Bangalore by 19 runs

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore led by India captain Virat Kohli has become the&nbsp;first team to be thrown out of contention for play-offs after a humiliating 61-run defeat against Rising Pune Supergiant in the&nbsp;Indian Premier League today.</p>

<p>Skipper Steven Smith who was embroiled in a long drawn battle with Virat Kohli during Australia&#39;s tour to India finally extracted some &quot;revenge&quot;.</p>

<p>Although the RCB bowlers managed to keep the Pune batsmen under a tight leash restricting them to 157 for three but another shoddy batting performance saw them finish at a dismal 96 for 9 after 20 overs.</p>

<p>While Pune kept themselves in contention with their fifth win in nine games, RCB are practically out of the tournament with their seventh defeat in 10 games and only five points in their kitty.</p>

<p>Pune bowlers rose to the occasion defending a sub-par total with a controlled bowling performance.&nbsp;Imran Tahir was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/18 from four overs, while Lockie Ferguson claimed 2/7 in four overs to claim the Man of the match award.</p>

<p>Jaydev Unadkat, Daniel Christian and Washington Sundar took one wicket each.&nbsp;This is one of the rarest occasions when a team has been bundled out below 100 runs twice in the Indian Premier League.</p>

<p>RCB were shot out for 49 by KKR in an earlier game in the tournament.</p>

<p>Chasing a modest 158, Bangalore just kept losing wickets despite skipper Kohli holding his ground at one end.&nbsp;Apart from Kohli, who came up with an uncharacteristic 48-ball-55, studded with four boundaries and a six, none of the other RCB batsmen could reach the double-digit mark.</p>

<p>Though not in his usual aggressive self, Kohli single-handedly tried his best to bail the team out of trouble but just did not find an able partner at the other end.&nbsp;The highest partnership of just 21 runs tells the dismal saga of a vaunted batting line-up.&nbsp;The visitors were gasping at 48 for five in the 10th over and there was no time when RCB showed any signs of revival.<br />
Kohli only reduced the margin of defeat with a gritty knock.</p>

<p>Earlier, RCB bowlers dominated the proceedings from the word go after inviting the Pune outfit to take first strike, with left-arm spinner Pawan Negi returning with impressive figures of 1/18 from his 4 overs.</p>

<p>Stuart Binny (1/17) and Samuel Badree (1/31) chipped in with wicket apiece.</p>

<p>Despite losing just three wickets, Pune batsmen could not upped the ante even though the pitch was reasonably batting- friendly.</p>

<p>Skipper Steven Smith top-scored with 32-ball-45 that included five boundaries and a six, while Manoj Tiwary (44 no, 35 balls) and opener Rahul Tripathi (37) also made important contributions.<br />
However, Pune could bring up 100 runs only in the 14th over.</p>

<p>Even Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who hit a huge six and a boundary during his unbeaten 21 off 17 failed to increase the tempo in the final overs. Dhoni and Tiwary could put up only 46 runs in the last five overs.</p>

<p>Despite three 40-plus partnerships, Pune batsmen simply failed to get going, even as the bowlers maintained a consistent line and length to tightened the noose.</p>

<p>Having lost Ajinkya Rahane (6) early, opener Tripathi and Smith stitched 40 runs for the second wicket, before the skipper joined hands with Tiwary for a 50-run stand for the third wicket.<br />
Tiwary then couple with Dhoni for an unbroken fourth- wicket partnership of 49.</p>

<p>(PTI)<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore led by India captain Virat Kohli has become the?first team to be thrown out of contention for play-offs.

Royal Challengers Bangalore led by India captain Virat Kohli has become the first team to be thrown out of contention for play-offs after a humiliating 61-run defeat against Rising Pune Supergiant in the Indian Premier League today. Skipper Steven Smith who was embroiled in a long drawn battle with Virat Kohli during Australia's tour to India finally extracted some "revenge". Although the RCB bowlers managed to keep the Pune batsmen under a tight leash restricting them to 157 for three but another shoddy batting performance saw them finish at a dismal 96 for 9 after 20 overs. While Pune kept themselves in contention with their fifth win in nine games, RCB are practically out of the tournament with their seventh defeat in 10 games and only five points in their kitty. Pune bowlers rose to the occasion defending a sub-par total with a controlled bowling performance. Imran Tahir was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/18 from four overs, while Lockie Ferguson claimed 2/7 in four overs to claim the Man of the match award. Jaydev Unadkat, Daniel Christian and Washington Sundar took one wicket each. This is one of the rarest occasions when a team has been bundled out below 100 runs twice in the Indian Premier League. RCB were shot out for 49 by KKR in an earlier game in the tournament. Chasing a modest 158, Bangalore just kept losing wickets despite skipper Kohli holding his ground at one end. Apart from Kohli, who came up with an uncharacteristic 48-ball-55, studded with four boundaries and a six, none of the other RCB batsmen could reach the double-digit mark. Though not in his usual aggressive self, Kohli single-handedly tried his best to bail the team out of trouble but just did not find an able partner at the other end. The highest partnership of just 21 runs tells the dismal saga of a vaunted batting line-up. The visitors were gasping at 48 for five in the 10th over and there was no time when RCB showed any signs of revival. Kohli only reduced the margin of defeat with a gritty knock. Earlier, RCB bowlers dominated the proceedings from the word go after inviting the Pune outfit to take first strike, with left-arm spinner Pawan Negi returning with impressive figures of 1/18 from his 4 overs. Stuart Binny (1/17) and Samuel Badree (1/31) chipped in with wicket apiece. Despite losing just three wickets, Pune batsmen could not upped the ante even though the pitch was reasonably batting- friendly. Skipper Steven Smith top-scored with 32-ball-45 that included five boundaries and a six, while Manoj Tiwary (44 no, 35 balls) and opener Rahul Tripathi (37) also made important contributions. However, Pune could bring up 100 runs only in the 14th over. Even Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who hit a huge six and a boundary during his unbeaten 21 off 17 failed to increase the tempo in the final overs. Dhoni and Tiwary could put up only 46 runs in the last five overs. Despite three 40-plus partnerships, Pune batsmen simply failed to get going, even as the bowlers maintained a consistent line and length to tightened the noose. Having lost Ajinkya Rahane (6) early, opener Tripathi and Smith stitched 40 runs for the second wicket, before the skipper joined hands with Tiwary for a 50-run stand for the third wicket. Tiwary then couple with Dhoni for an unbroken fourth- wicket partnership of 49. (PTI)

IPL: Steven Smith's Pune has the last laugh, Kohli's RCB fails again

<p>Swashbuckling West Indies opener Chris Gayle smashed a blistering half-century before Yuzvendra Chahal returned with a three-wicket haul as Royal Challengers Bangalore defeated Gujarat Lions by 21 runs in their IPL encounter here today.</p>

<p>Gayle slammed a 38-ball 77-run innings, while skipper Virat Kohli produced a superb 50-ball 64 to guide RCB to a massive 213-2 after Gujarat skipper Suresh Raina won the toss and elected to field.</p>

<p>Opener Brendon McCullum then played a superb 72-run off 44-ball innings, studded with two fours and seven sixes but he didn&#39;t get the support from the other end as RCB restricted the Lions to 192-7 to snap their three-game losing streak.</p>

<p>Yuzvendra Chahal (3/31) was the pick of the bowlers for RCB as he picked up three crucial wickets -- Dwayne Smith (1), Suresh Raina (23) and McCullum -- in his four overs to derail Gujarat&#39;s runchase.</p>

<p>Chasing 214 to win, Gujarat lost their opening batsman Smith early when he was caught at the boundary line by Mandeep Singh off Chahal&#39;s bowling at deep square-leg.</p>

<p>Skipper Raina then slammed a quick-fire 8-ball 23 which included two fours and two sixes before becoming the second wicket of Chahal.</p>

<p>Coming down the pitch, Raina tried to play a sweep shot which went straight to Shane Watson at short fine leg.</p>

<p>McCullum (72) and Aaron Finch (19) then stitched a 66-run innings off 34 balls for the third wicket to take Gujarat across the 100-mark in 10th over.</p>

<p>McCullum also added 31 off 22 balls with Ravindra Jadeja (23) before becoming the third victim of Chahal in the 15th over as Lions looked down the barrel.</p>

<p>Jadeja then was run-out after a mix-up with new batsman Ishan Kishan in the 18th over. Kishan then hit a 16-ball 39, laced with four sixes and two four but it was too late in the end.</p>

<p>Earlier, Gayle and Kohli gave Bangalore a brilliant start as they amassed 45 in the first six overs and then went on to forge a 122-run opening partnership off 76 balls.</p>

<p>Gayle&#39;s innings was studded with five boundaries and seven massive sixes, while Kohli blasted seven fours and one six in his 50-ball innings.</p>

<p>Kohli took the early initiative as he picked up a boundary each in the first two overs before blasting Dhawal Kulkarni for three fours in the third over.</p>

<p>Gayle, who has been out of form, meanwhile, completed his 10,000 runs in twenty20 cricket with a single off Basil Thampi in the fourth over.</p>

<p>The West Indies batsman then blasted his first six of the innings over mid-off. He then sent young mystery spinner Shivil Kaushik for another maximum over long-off in the seventh over.</p>

<p>Gayle then exploded with successive fours and a six off left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja. He also blasted the last delivery of the over for a maximum but he was brilliantly caught by Brendon McCullum at the long-off boundary.</p>

<p>However, Gayle survived after replays showed that McCullum&#39;s hat had touched the boundary line.</p>

<p>Gayle made Lions pay as he brought up his fifty with a massive six over long on off Kaushik in the 10th over and then clobbered Smith for another six as RCB reached the 100-mark.</p>

<p>The dashing opener sent Smith out of the park again in the fourth ball over long-on as RCB picked 17 runs off the over.</p>

<p>In the 13th over, Thampi finally dismissed Gayle when he trapped him leg before to break the partnership.</p>

<p>Kohli, however, continued to score runs and reached his 28th IPL fifty in the 15th over with a couple of runs off Kaushik. He then blasted a towering six over wide of long-on in the 4th ball.</p>

<p>Newman Travis Head (30) then sent the last ball for another maximum over deep midwicket.</p>

<p>In the next over, Kulkarni returned to dismiss Kohli, who holed out to deep midwicket with Smith taking the catch at the boundary line.</p>

<p>Head and Kedar Jadhav (38) then provided the late charge to take RCB across the 200-mark. While Jadhav cracked five fours and two sixes, Head hit two fours and a six in his innings.</p>

<p>For Gujarat, Thampi (1/31) and Kulkarni (1/37) took one wicket each.</p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2wXscx2JcXU" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>(PTI)</p>


Gayle slammed a 38-ball 77-run innings, while skipper Virat Kohli produced a superb 50-ball 64 to guide RCB to a massive 213-2

Swashbuckling West Indies opener Chris Gayle smashed a blistering half-century before Yuzvendra Chahal returned with a three-wicket haul as Royal Challengers Bangalore defeated Gujarat Lions by 21 runs in their IPL encounter here today. Gayle slammed a 38-ball 77-run innings, while skipper Virat Kohli produced a superb 50-ball 64 to guide RCB to a massive 213-2 after Gujarat skipper Suresh Raina won the toss and elected to field. Opener Brendon McCullum then played a superb 72-run off 44-ball innings, studded with two fours and seven sixes but he didn't get the support from the other end as RCB restricted the Lions to 192-7 to snap their three-game losing streak. Yuzvendra Chahal (3/31) was the pick of the bowlers for RCB as he picked up three crucial wickets -- Dwayne Smith (1), Suresh Raina (23) and McCullum -- in his four overs to derail Gujarat's runchase. Chasing 214 to win, Gujarat lost their opening batsman Smith early when he was caught at the boundary line by Mandeep Singh off Chahal's bowling at deep square-leg. Skipper Raina then slammed a quick-fire 8-ball 23 which included two fours and two sixes before becoming the second wicket of Chahal. Coming down the pitch, Raina tried to play a sweep shot which went straight to Shane Watson at short fine leg. McCullum (72) and Aaron Finch (19) then stitched a 66-run innings off 34 balls for the third wicket to take Gujarat across the 100-mark in 10th over. McCullum also added 31 off 22 balls with Ravindra Jadeja (23) before becoming the third victim of Chahal in the 15th over as Lions looked down the barrel. Jadeja then was run-out after a mix-up with new batsman Ishan Kishan in the 18th over. Kishan then hit a 16-ball 39, laced with four sixes and two four but it was too late in the end. Earlier, Gayle and Kohli gave Bangalore a brilliant start as they amassed 45 in the first six overs and then went on to forge a 122-run opening partnership off 76 balls. Gayle's innings was studded with five boundaries and seven massive sixes, while Kohli blasted seven fours and one six in his 50-ball innings. Kohli took the early initiative as he picked up a boundary each in the first two overs before blasting Dhawal Kulkarni for three fours in the third over. Gayle, who has been out of form, meanwhile, completed his 10,000 runs in twenty20 cricket with a single off Basil Thampi in the fourth over. The West Indies batsman then blasted his first six of the innings over mid-off. He then sent young mystery spinner Shivil Kaushik for another maximum over long-off in the seventh over. Gayle then exploded with successive fours and a six off left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja. He also blasted the last delivery of the over for a maximum but he was brilliantly caught by Brendon McCullum at the long-off boundary. However, Gayle survived after replays showed that McCullum's hat had touched the boundary line. Gayle made Lions pay as he brought up his fifty with a massive six over long on off Kaushik in the 10th over and then clobbered Smith for another six as RCB reached the 100-mark. The dashing opener sent Smith out of the park again in the fourth ball over long-on as RCB picked 17 runs off the over. In the 13th over, Thampi finally dismissed Gayle when he trapped him leg before to break the partnership. Kohli, however, continued to score runs and reached his 28th IPL fifty in the 15th over with a couple of runs off Kaushik. He then blasted a towering six over wide of long-on in the 4th ball. Newman Travis Head (30) then sent the last ball for another maximum over deep midwicket. In the next over, Kulkarni returned to dismiss Kohli, who holed out to deep midwicket with Smith taking the catch at the boundary line. Head and Kedar Jadhav (38) then provided the late charge to take RCB across the 200-mark. While Jadhav cracked five fours and two sixes, Head hit two fours and a six in his innings. For Gujarat, Thampi (1/31) and Kulkarni (1/37) took one wicket each. (PTI)

IPL: Gayle's quick-fire knock guides RCB to victory over Gujarat Lions

<p>Defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad made a perfect start to their Indian Premier League campaign crushing a depleted Royal Challengers Bangalore by 35 runs in the opening encounter, here tonight.<br />
<br />
Veteran Yuvraj Singh&#39;s blazing blade (62 off 27 balls) and unheralded Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan Arman (2/36 in 4 overs)&#39;s crucial breakthroughs enabled Sunrisers to outwit a Virat Kohli-less RCB in all departments.<br />
<br />
A challenging target of 208 was achievable on a placid track but RCB could only manage 172 in 19.4 overs losing wickets at regular intervals. This was the first time after 23 IPL matches that RCB were all-out.<br />
<br />
RCB&#39;s top four -- Chris Gayle (32), Mandeep Singh (24), Travis Head (30) and Kedar Jadhav (31) -- were all set before getting out. Kedar&#39;s dismissal was the turning point as RCB were never in the match after that.<br />
<br />
The India international was looking dangerous during his 16-ball stay and was run-out when Ben Cutting&#39;s direct throw from the deep found him short by a metre.<br />
<br />
On a belter where pacers became easy prey for the batsmen, Sunrisers skipper David Warner rotated his spinners well trying to take the pace off the deliveries.<br />
<br />
Young Rashid, who created history by being the first Afghan to play an IPL match got Mandeep with a fuller delivery that didn&#39;t turn.<br />
<br />
The batsman trying to cut got an inside edge onto the stumps. The celebration was atypical Shahid Afridi just like his style of fastish leg-breaks. Rashid also got Travis Head when the batsmen tried to play a slog sweep.<br />
<br />
But Deepak Hooda got the most important wicket when he got Gayle trying to hit him over long-off for a second six only to be caught by Warner. Th wickets fell at regular intervals and there was no pressure on Sunrisers as they coasted to victory. Ashish Nehra (2/42) also gota couple of wickets to reach a personal milestone of 100 IPL victims.<br />
<br />
Earlier, a vintage Yuvraj hammered RCB bowlers to submission as Sunrisers Hyderabad posted a commendable 207 for 4 put into bat by Shane Watson.<br />
<br />
On a batting beauty, Yuvraj smashed the RCB bowlers to cleaners after Srinath Aravind dropped a dolly at deep square leg boundary. Yuvraj was on 26 then and the let-off allowed him to score his fastest IPL half-century off 23 balls.<br />
<br />
Moises Henriques&#39; 52 off 37 balls also went a long way in contributing to Sunrisers&#39; total. The Yuvraj-Henriques pair added 58 runs runs in only 4.5 overs after Shikhar Dhawan (40) was involved in a 74-run stand for the second wicket.<br />
<br />
Yuvraj&#39;s innings had seven fours and three sixes while Henriques&#39; innings had three fours and two sixes.<br />
<br />
Skipper David Warner started with a couple of boundaries and huge six over long-on off left-arm seamer Aniket Chaudhary but was gone when his slash was taken by a leaping Mandeep Singh at backward point.<br />
<br />
Dhawan banged rival skipper Shane Watson for four boundaries in the final Powerplay over to set the tone.<br />
<br />
Henriques at the other end chanced his arms to hit a six over long-on off Travis Head. Once Dhawan was caught in the deep off Stuart Binny&#39;s delivery, Yuvraj came in and started taking on the bowlers.<br />
<br />
Rajasthan&#39;s Chaudhary, who has been with the India camp came in for special treatment including a lofted extra cover drive for a six apart fom two fours in a single over.<br />
<br />
Aravind, who dropped him bowled a back of the hand slower that was dispatched into mid-wicket stands.<br />
<br />
A widish delivery from Chaudhary was slashed past point to reach his half-century.<br />
<br />
IPL&#39;s million dollar boy Tymal Mills was flicked past short fine leg and once again picked the slower delivery into the deep square leg stands before becoming his first victim.<br />
<br />
India&#39;s T20- specialist Yuzvendra Chahal (1/22 in 4 overs) held his own without conceding a single boundary while Mills 1/31 in 4 overs bowled the maximum (11) dot balls.</p>

<p>(PTI)</p>


Veteran Yuvraj Singh's blazing blade and unheralded Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan Arman helped the defending champions start with a win

Defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad made a perfect start to their Indian Premier League campaign crushing a depleted Royal Challengers Bangalore by 35 runs in the opening encounter, here tonight. Veteran Yuvraj Singh's blazing blade (62 off 27 balls) and unheralded Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan Arman (2/36 in 4 overs)'s crucial breakthroughs enabled Sunrisers to outwit a Virat Kohli-less RCB in all departments. A challenging target of 208 was achievable on a placid track but RCB could only manage 172 in 19.4 overs losing wickets at regular intervals. This was the first time after 23 IPL matches that RCB were all-out. RCB's top four -- Chris Gayle (32), Mandeep Singh (24), Travis Head (30) and Kedar Jadhav (31) -- were all set before getting out. Kedar's dismissal was the turning point as RCB were never in the match after that. The India international was looking dangerous during his 16-ball stay and was run-out when Ben Cutting's direct throw from the deep found him short by a metre. On a belter where pacers became easy prey for the batsmen, Sunrisers skipper David Warner rotated his spinners well trying to take the pace off the deliveries. Young Rashid, who created history by being the first Afghan to play an IPL match got Mandeep with a fuller delivery that didn't turn. The batsman trying to cut got an inside edge onto the stumps. The celebration was atypical Shahid Afridi just like his style of fastish leg-breaks. Rashid also got Travis Head when the batsmen tried to play a slog sweep. But Deepak Hooda got the most important wicket when he got Gayle trying to hit him over long-off for a second six only to be caught by Warner. Th wickets fell at regular intervals and there was no pressure on Sunrisers as they coasted to victory. Ashish Nehra (2/42) also gota couple of wickets to reach a personal milestone of 100 IPL victims. Earlier, a vintage Yuvraj hammered RCB bowlers to submission as Sunrisers Hyderabad posted a commendable 207 for 4 put into bat by Shane Watson. On a batting beauty, Yuvraj smashed the RCB bowlers to cleaners after Srinath Aravind dropped a dolly at deep square leg boundary. Yuvraj was on 26 then and the let-off allowed him to score his fastest IPL half-century off 23 balls. Moises Henriques' 52 off 37 balls also went a long way in contributing to Sunrisers' total. The Yuvraj-Henriques pair added 58 runs runs in only 4.5 overs after Shikhar Dhawan (40) was involved in a 74-run stand for the second wicket. Yuvraj's innings had seven fours and three sixes while Henriques' innings had three fours and two sixes. Skipper David Warner started with a couple of boundaries and huge six over long-on off left-arm seamer Aniket Chaudhary but was gone when his slash was taken by a leaping Mandeep Singh at backward point. Dhawan banged rival skipper Shane Watson for four boundaries in the final Powerplay over to set the tone. Henriques at the other end chanced his arms to hit a six over long-on off Travis Head. Once Dhawan was caught in the deep off Stuart Binny's delivery, Yuvraj came in and started taking on the bowlers. Rajasthan's Chaudhary, who has been with the India camp came in for special treatment including a lofted extra cover drive for a six apart fom two fours in a single over. Aravind, who dropped him bowled a back of the hand slower that was dispatched into mid-wicket stands. A widish delivery from Chaudhary was slashed past point to reach his half-century. IPL's million dollar boy Tymal Mills was flicked past short fine leg and once again picked the slower delivery into the deep square leg stands before becoming his first victim. India's T20- specialist Yuzvendra Chahal (1/22 in 4 overs) held his own without conceding a single boundary while Mills 1/31 in 4 overs bowled the maximum (11) dot balls. (PTI)

IPL: Sunrisers Hyderabad beat Royal Challengers Bangalore in curtain-raiser