India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently.

The duo will be replaced by opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Deepak Hooda in India's T20 squad for the West Indies series. While Gaikwad has already made his T20I debut for the Indian team, Hooda is yet to earn his maiden cap in the shortest format of the game. Hooda had recently impressed on his ODI debut for the Men in Blue against Kieron Pollard's men.

"Rahul sustained an upper left hamstring strain during fielding in the 2nd ODI on 9th February 2022 while Axar has resumed the final stage of his rehabilitation after recently recovering from Covid-19. They will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further management of their injury," said the BCCI in a statement on Friday.

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hooda as replacements," it added.&nbsp;

Both Gaikwad and Hooda are already part of India's ODI squad for the ongoing three-match series against West Indies and will stay with the squad for the T20Is. In the absence of Rahul, Gaikwad will be hoping to get more opportunities at the top after not getting even a single game in the ODI series.

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Hooda can also be used as a finisher in the lower middle-order in the absence of the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, who are both not part of the squad. Venkatesh Iyer will be Hooda's only competitor for the all-rounder's spot in the playing XI.

India's updated T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

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India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently.

India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently. The duo will be replaced by opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Deepak Hooda in India's T20 squad for the West Indies series. While Gaikwad has already made his T20I debut for the Indian team, Hooda is yet to earn his maiden cap in the shortest format of the game. Hooda had recently impressed on his ODI debut for the Men in Blue against Kieron Pollard's men. "Rahul sustained an upper left hamstring strain during fielding in the 2nd ODI on 9th February 2022 while Axar has resumed the final stage of his rehabilitation after recently recovering from Covid-19. They will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further management of their injury," said the BCCI in a statement on Friday. "The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hooda as replacements," it added. Both Gaikwad and Hooda are already part of India's ODI squad for the ongoing three-match series against West Indies and will stay with the squad for the T20Is. In the absence of Rahul, Gaikwad will be hoping to get more opportunities at the top after not getting even a single game in the ODI series. Also Read: Virat Kohli endures worst ODI series in 9 years as he bags 2-ball duck in 3rd ODI against West Indies Hooda can also be used as a finisher in the lower middle-order in the absence of the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, who are both not part of the squad. Venkatesh Iyer will be Hooda's only competitor for the all-rounder's spot in the playing XI. India's updated T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

KL Rahul, Axar Patel ruled out of T20I series against West Indies, replacements announced

India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Rohit had to miss India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury but has now returned to the squad after recovering fully.

Ahead of the start of the three-match ODI series against Kieron Pollard &amp; Co., the Indian captain answered reporters' questions during a virtual pre-match press conference on Saturday. Rohit spoke on a range of topics from the COVID-19 situation in the Indian team to the team's vision in limited-overs cricket going forward.

Rohit was also asked about the lack of opportunities in the Indian team for the young openers Ruturak Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan. While Kishan was initially not part of the ODI squad and had been picked only in the T20I side, he was selected in the ODI squad after Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week.

Rohit came up with a cheeky response to the question and asked the reporter if he wanted him to bench himself and senior opener Dhawan to give chances to the likes of Kishan and Gaikwad. "You are saying I and Shikhar should sit on the bench and give Ruturaj and Ishan chances at the top?"- Rohit responded.

"The top 3 batters in Indian ODI team have done very well. Young batters will get opportunities. Ishan is getting one. There are a lot of matches. The ones who do well will get opportunities. Dhawan did well in SA but is now affected by Covid. Ishan is getting the opportunity now," he added.

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Apart from Gaikwad, Dhawan and Iyer, pacer Navdeep Saini has also tested positive for the virus and is currently in isolation. All four players are likely to not feature in the ODI series against West Indies. Vice-captain KL Rahul, who also plays as an opener, will miss the first ODI due to personal reasons which will see Kishan get an opportunity at the top.

However, Rahul will be available for selection from the second ODI. Mayank Agarwal has also been added to India's ODI squad after COVID-19 cases in the team but the batter is currently in quarantine and will not feature in the first ODI of the series.

India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).

India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Rohit had to miss India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury but has now returned to the squad after recovering fully. Ahead of the start of the three-match ODI series against Kieron Pollard & Co., the Indian captain answered reporters' questions during a virtual pre-match press conference on Saturday. Rohit spoke on a range of topics from the COVID-19 situation in the Indian team to the team's vision in limited-overs cricket going forward. Rohit was also asked about the lack of opportunities in the Indian team for the young openers Ruturak Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan. While Kishan was initially not part of the ODI squad and had been picked only in the T20I side, he was selected in the ODI squad after Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week. Rohit came up with a cheeky response to the question and asked the reporter if he wanted him to bench himself and senior opener Dhawan to give chances to the likes of Kishan and Gaikwad. "You are saying I and Shikhar should sit on the bench and give Ruturaj and Ishan chances at the top?"- Rohit responded. "The top 3 batters in Indian ODI team have done very well. Young batters will get opportunities. Ishan is getting one. There are a lot of matches. The ones who do well will get opportunities. Dhawan did well in SA but is now affected by Covid. Ishan is getting the opportunity now," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official Apart from Gaikwad, Dhawan and Iyer, pacer Navdeep Saini has also tested positive for the virus and is currently in isolation. All four players are likely to not feature in the ODI series against West Indies. Vice-captain KL Rahul, who also plays as an opener, will miss the first ODI due to personal reasons which will see Kishan get an opportunity at the top. However, Rahul will be available for selection from the second ODI. Mayank Agarwal has also been added to India's ODI squad after COVID-19 cases in the team but the batter is currently in quarantine and will not feature in the first ODI of the series.

'You want me & Shikhar Dhawan on bench?': Rohit Sharma stumps reporter after question on Kishan, Gaikwad

The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj&nbsp;Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06).

With Dhawan and Gaikwad down with COVID-19 and KL Rahul unavailable for selection in the first ODI due to personal reasons, the Indian team had to rope in Ishan Kishan and Mayank Agarwal as reserve openers ahead of the start of the series.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma on Saturday confirmed his opening partner for the first ODI against the Kieron Pollard-led side. Rohit said Kishan will open the batting with him in the series-opener as Mayank is still in quarantine after joining the rest of the Indian squad in Ahmedabad.

"Ishan will open with me. Mayank is still in isolation although he has come into the squad. So, Ishan will open," Rohit told the reporters during the pre-match virtual press conference on Saturday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-unhappy-with-anil-kumble-for-not-standing-up-for-players-claims-former-bcci-official-450649">Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official</a>

Rohit himself will be returning to the field for the Men in Blue after a gap of nearly two months as he had missed India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury. The Hitman has fully recovered and is raring to go in what will be his first ODI series as India's full-time captain.

The first ODI between the two sides will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. While Kishan will open the batting, Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are likely to feature in the middle-order along with Rishabh Pant.

All-rounder Washington Sundar is also likely to be included in the playing XI given the absence of some of the top batters in the team.

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The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06).

The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06). With Dhawan and Gaikwad down with COVID-19 and KL Rahul unavailable for selection in the first ODI due to personal reasons, the Indian team had to rope in Ishan Kishan and Mayank Agarwal as reserve openers ahead of the start of the series. Indian captain Rohit Sharma on Saturday confirmed his opening partner for the first ODI against the Kieron Pollard-led side. Rohit said Kishan will open the batting with him in the series-opener as Mayank is still in quarantine after joining the rest of the Indian squad in Ahmedabad. "Ishan will open with me. Mayank is still in isolation although he has come into the squad. So, Ishan will open," Rohit told the reporters during the pre-match virtual press conference on Saturday. Also Read: Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official Rohit himself will be returning to the field for the Men in Blue after a gap of nearly two months as he had missed India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury. The Hitman has fully recovered and is raring to go in what will be his first ODI series as India's full-time captain. The first ODI between the two sides will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. While Kishan will open the batting, Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are likely to feature in the middle-order along with Rishabh Pant. All-rounder Washington Sundar is also likely to be included in the playing XI given the absence of some of the top batters in the team.

Rohit Sharma confirms his opening partner for first ODI against West Indies in absence of Dhawan, Rahul

The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).

Ahead of the series opener, three Indian players have tested positive for COVID-19 and are unlikely to feature in the three ODIs. Opening batters Shikhar Dhawan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer have all tested positive for coronavirus. Team India is facing a crunch in terms of the opening slot after Dhawan and Gaikwad's positive reports.

Vice-captain KL Rahul could have opened the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the duo's absence. However, he is set to miss the first ODI due to personal reasons. As per a report in PTI, young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan has been added to India's ODI squad ahead of the start of the series.

Kishan, who also plays as an opener, has reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad and is likely to be the reserve opener in the squad. There are chances that the left-hander might open the batting with Rohit in the first ODI against West Indies on Sunday.

Apart from Kishan, Mayank Agarwal has also reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad amid COVID-19 infection to three players. While Kishan was only part of the T20I series against West Indies, Mayank was not a part of either of the two squads for the limited-overs series against West Indies.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/an-achievement-entire-nation-should-be-proud-of-sachin-tendulkar-on-indias-1000th-odi-milestone-450549">An achievement entire nation should be proud of: Sachin Tendulkar on India's 1000th ODI milestone</a>

On Friday, the Indian team had their first training session in Ahmedabad where head coach Rahul Dravid introduced young spinner Ravi Bishnoi to the other members of the Indian team. Captain Rohit took charge of the session and was seen gearing up for his first major ODI assignment as India's captain.

The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).

The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Ahead of the series opener, three Indian players have tested positive for COVID-19 and are unlikely to feature in the three ODIs. Opening batters Shikhar Dhawan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer have all tested positive for coronavirus. Team India is facing a crunch in terms of the opening slot after Dhawan and Gaikwad's positive reports. Vice-captain KL Rahul could have opened the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the duo's absence. However, he is set to miss the first ODI due to personal reasons. As per a report in PTI, young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan has been added to India's ODI squad ahead of the start of the series. Kishan, who also plays as an opener, has reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad and is likely to be the reserve opener in the squad. There are chances that the left-hander might open the batting with Rohit in the first ODI against West Indies on Sunday. Apart from Kishan, Mayank Agarwal has also reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad amid COVID-19 infection to three players. While Kishan was only part of the T20I series against West Indies, Mayank was not a part of either of the two squads for the limited-overs series against West Indies. Also Read: An achievement entire nation should be proud of: Sachin Tendulkar on India's 1000th ODI milestone On Friday, the Indian team had their first training session in Ahmedabad where head coach Rahul Dravid introduced young spinner Ravi Bishnoi to the other members of the Indian team. Captain Rohit took charge of the session and was seen gearing up for his first major ODI assignment as India's captain.

Ishan Kishan added to India's ODI squad as Dhawan, Gaikwad test positive for COVID-19 - Report

The year gone by was far from a fruitful one for the Indian team as the Men in Blue once again failed to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought. India lost the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship against New Zealand before failing to qualify for the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup 2021.

While it was a disappointing year for the Indian cricket team in terms of results, 2021 saw the rise of a number of promising youngsters, who can become the future stars of Indian cricket. While Mohammed Siraj and Rishabh Pant cemented their spots in the Indian team with their heroics in Australia, Ishan Kishan realised his dream of making his India debut.

Ruturaj Gaikwad continued his purple patch in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 and finished as the highest run-getter of the season, beating seasoned campaigners like KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan and Faf du Plessis to the Orange Cap before enjoying a sensational run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he went on to notch up 603 runs in just five games averaging over 150.

Venkatesh Iyer was also among one of the finds for Indian cricket in the year 2021 after his all-round heroics for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League. There is plenty to look forward to in terms of talent in Indian cricket in 2022 as a number of these youngsters will be raring to make it count and make the world take notice of their performances this year.

Here is a look at some Indian youngsters to look forward to in 2022:

Ruturaj Gaikwad

Ruturaj Gaikwad could easily be the next big thing in Indian cricket if nurtured in a proper manner and given adequate opportunities. In the last couple of years, Gaikwad has showcased his skills and talent against the best of bowlers in the Indian Premier League and has impressed one and all with his impeccable technique and tenacity.

Gaikwad is a technically gifted batter, who can make run-scoring look easy. He was the top scorer in IPL 2022 with 635 runs in 16 matches at an impressive average of&nbsp;45.35 and a strike rate of over 136. He then finished as the highest run-getter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he notched up 603 runs in just five games to earn an ODI call-up in the Indian squad.

He is one of the promising batters to look forward to in the year 2022 as Gaikwad looks set to make it big in Indian cricket in the future.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lot-of-people-wouldnt-have-been-able-to-digest-virat-kohli-reaching-50-60-wins-as-test-captain-ravi-shastri-446945">Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri</a>

Venkatesh Iyer&nbsp;

Venkatesh Iyer enjoyed one of his best cricketing seasons in the year 2021 as he rose to prominence after his all-round heroics for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). An explosive opener and a handy bowler, Iyer has risen through the ranks quickly and has already made his ODI and T20I debut for the Indian team. He had played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of IPL 2021 with some brilliant performances with the bat.

Iyer, an attacking left-hander, notched up 370 runs in just ten matches striking close to 130 for KKR in the second phase of IPL 2021 in the UAE. He then continued his impressive run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before being called up to the Indian ODI team. 2022 can be a crucial year for the batting all-rounder, who has got the skills and talent to become a future star of Indian cricket.

Avesh Khan&nbsp;

Avesh Khan has risen through humble beginnings to come a long way in his cricketing career as he continues to knock on the selectors' doors for what seems to be an inevitable India debut. Avesh had a brilliant IPL 2021 for Delhi Capitals as he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker of the season with 24 wickets in 16 matches helping Delhi reach the playoffs.

Avesh was also called up as one of the standby fast bowlers for the Indian team on their tour of England last year. The 25-year-old has pace, and the ability to bowl the right line and lengths consistently which makes him a great asset for his team. He can be one of the pacers to burst onto the scene for India in 2022 and make his dream international debut.

Ishan Kishan&nbsp;

Ishan Kishan enjoyed a dream run in IPL 2022 and was one of the standout performers for Mumbai Indians in their title-winning campaign. He was deservingly handed his India debut last year and went on to impress as an opener. Ishan's explosive and swashbuckling style of batting can take the game away from the opposition in the matter of a few overs.

He has played only 5 T20Is and 2 ODIs for India so far but is currently part of the ODI squad in the ongoing series against South Africa and is expected to be in the fray going forward. Ishan can have a breakthrough year in 2022 if he is given consistent opportunities for Team India.

Prasidh Krishna&nbsp;

One of the most promising fast bowlers in the country at present, Prasidh&nbsp;Krishna has been a part of the Indian Premier League for a while now but hasn't quite been able to set the stage on fire with his performances. Nonetheless, he remains an exciting prospect for the Indian team and can be utilised across all three formats.

A tall and lanky fast bowler, who can clock good pacer consistently, Krishna made his India debut in an ODI against England at home last year and is currently a part of the squad in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. He is expected to be eased into the other formats as well and might become a potent fast bowler for India in the future.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-has-a-big-task-ahead-has-to-prove-he-is-not-an-overrated-coach-shoaib-akhtar-446926">Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar</a>

Ravi Bishnoi&nbsp;

Ravi Bishnoi rose to prominence after his brilliant performances for the India U-19 team during the U-19 World Cup in 2020. He was roped in by Punjab Kings at the IPL player auction in the same year and hasn't looked back since. Bishnoi is currently one of the hottest young spin prospects in the country and has a bright future lying ahead of him.

In his debut IPL season, he picked up 12 wickets in 14 games for Punjab before taking 12 wickets once again in just nine games last season. He has 24 wickets so far in 23 IPL matches and has been picked by the Lucknow IPL team as one of their three drafts picks ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Bishnoi can breakthrough into the Indian team this year if he can deliver consistently in the upcoming IPL season.

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The year gone by was far from a fruitful one for the Indian team as the Men in Blue once again failed to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought. India lost the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship against New Zealand before failing to qualify for the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup 2021.

The year gone by was far from a fruitful one for the Indian team as the Men in Blue once again failed to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought. India lost the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship against New Zealand before failing to qualify for the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup 2021. While it was a disappointing year for the Indian cricket team in terms of results, 2021 saw the rise of a number of promising youngsters, who can become the future stars of Indian cricket. While Mohammed Siraj and Rishabh Pant cemented their spots in the Indian team with their heroics in Australia, Ishan Kishan realised his dream of making his India debut. Ruturaj Gaikwad continued his purple patch in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 and finished as the highest run-getter of the season, beating seasoned campaigners like KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan and Faf du Plessis to the Orange Cap before enjoying a sensational run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he went on to notch up 603 runs in just five games averaging over 150. Venkatesh Iyer was also among one of the finds for Indian cricket in the year 2021 after his all-round heroics for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League. There is plenty to look forward to in terms of talent in Indian cricket in 2022 as a number of these youngsters will be raring to make it count and make the world take notice of their performances this year. Here is a look at some Indian youngsters to look forward to in 2022: Ruturaj Gaikwad Ruturaj Gaikwad could easily be the next big thing in Indian cricket if nurtured in a proper manner and given adequate opportunities. In the last couple of years, Gaikwad has showcased his skills and talent against the best of bowlers in the Indian Premier League and has impressed one and all with his impeccable technique and tenacity. Gaikwad is a technically gifted batter, who can make run-scoring look easy. He was the top scorer in IPL 2022 with 635 runs in 16 matches at an impressive average of 45.35 and a strike rate of over 136. He then finished as the highest run-getter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he notched up 603 runs in just five games to earn an ODI call-up in the Indian squad. He is one of the promising batters to look forward to in the year 2022 as Gaikwad looks set to make it big in Indian cricket in the future. Also Read: Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri Venkatesh Iyer Venkatesh Iyer enjoyed one of his best cricketing seasons in the year 2021 as he rose to prominence after his all-round heroics for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). An explosive opener and a handy bowler, Iyer has risen through the ranks quickly and has already made his ODI and T20I debut for the Indian team. He had played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of IPL 2021 with some brilliant performances with the bat. Iyer, an attacking left-hander, notched up 370 runs in just ten matches striking close to 130 for KKR in the second phase of IPL 2021 in the UAE. He then continued his impressive run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before being called up to the Indian ODI team. 2022 can be a crucial year for the batting all-rounder, who has got the skills and talent to become a future star of Indian cricket. Avesh Khan Avesh Khan has risen through humble beginnings to come a long way in his cricketing career as he continues to knock on the selectors' doors for what seems to be an inevitable India debut. Avesh had a brilliant IPL 2021 for Delhi Capitals as he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker of the season with 24 wickets in 16 matches helping Delhi reach the playoffs. Avesh was also called up as one of the standby fast bowlers for the Indian team on their tour of England last year. The 25-year-old has pace, and the ability to bowl the right line and lengths consistently which makes him a great asset for his team. He can be one of the pacers to burst onto the scene for India in 2022 and make his dream international debut. Ishan Kishan Ishan Kishan enjoyed a dream run in IPL 2022 and was one of the standout performers for Mumbai Indians in their title-winning campaign. He was deservingly handed his India debut last year and went on to impress as an opener. Ishan's explosive and swashbuckling style of batting can take the game away from the opposition in the matter of a few overs. He has played only 5 T20Is and 2 ODIs for India so far but is currently part of the ODI squad in the ongoing series against South Africa and is expected to be in the fray going forward. Ishan can have a breakthrough year in 2022 if he is given consistent opportunities for Team India. Prasidh Krishna One of the most promising fast bowlers in the country at present, Prasidh Krishna has been a part of the Indian Premier League for a while now but hasn't quite been able to set the stage on fire with his performances. Nonetheless, he remains an exciting prospect for the Indian team and can be utilised across all three formats. A tall and lanky fast bowler, who can clock good pacer consistently, Krishna made his India debut in an ODI against England at home last year and is currently a part of the squad in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. He is expected to be eased into the other formats as well and might become a potent fast bowler for India in the future. Also Read: Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar Ravi Bishnoi Ravi Bishnoi rose to prominence after his brilliant performances for the India U-19 team during the U-19 World Cup in 2020. He was roped in by Punjab Kings at the IPL player auction in the same year and hasn't looked back since. Bishnoi is currently one of the hottest young spin prospects in the country and has a bright future lying ahead of him. In his debut IPL season, he picked up 12 wickets in 14 games for Punjab before taking 12 wickets once again in just nine games last season. He has 24 wickets so far in 23 IPL matches and has been picked by the Lucknow IPL team as one of their three drafts picks ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Bishnoi can breakthrough into the Indian team this year if he can deliver consistently in the upcoming IPL season.

Ruturaj Gaikwad to Avesh Khan: Indian youngsters to look forward to in 2022

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management.

Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021:

Conquering Aussies Down Under

The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc.

India hammer England across formats

After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2&nbsp;wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaughan-reacts-after-wasim-jaffer-hilariously-trolls-englishman-amid-joe-root-cos-ashes-horrors-440619">Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root &amp; Co.'s Ashes horrors</a>

What a solid bench strength

India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot.

IPL 2021

This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-ipl-title-or-icc-silverware-captaincy-resignation-and-bcci-row-reliving-virat-kohlis-eventful-2021-439667">No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021</a>

While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root &amp; Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively.&nbsp;

The Dravid-era

The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI&nbsp;captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats.&nbsp;

In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management. Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021: Conquering Aussies Down Under The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc. India hammer England across formats After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2 wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan. ALSO READ | Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root & Co.'s Ashes horrors What a solid bench strength India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot. IPL 2021 This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers. ALSO READ | No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021 While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root & Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively. The Dravid-era The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats. In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021

India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from Sunday (December 26). The Test series will be followed by three ODIs between the two sides. India are yet to announce their squad for the ODIs and the selectors are likely to sit down to pick the squad for the series in the next 48 hours.

R Ashwin is likely to make his comeback in India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, as per a report in Cricbuzz. Ashwin, who has been a vital cog in India's Test squad, has been sidelined from white-ball cricket for a long time. He was surprisingly included in India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 which marked his return to the T20 team after a gap of three years.

The off-spinner had last played an ODI match for India in June 2017 and will now be making his comeback in the ODI squad after a gap of over three years. As per Cricbuzz, the Indian think tank including head coach Rahul Dravid and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma have been left impressed by Ashwin's performances for India in T20Is recently and see him as part of their plans ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup which will be played in India.

Besides Ashwin, the selectors are also set to include youngsters Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the squad. Both Iyer and Gaikwad had brilliant IPL 2021 campaigns for their respective sides and have been making waves with their performances in the onging Vijay Hazare Trophy. While Gaikwad is the top-scorer with 603 runs from five matches, Iyer has 379 runs in six matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far.

Iyer is being seen as one of the back-ups for all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is currently training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru to work on his fitness before he returns to the Indian team. The selectors are also set to take a call on the future of veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, who has not played for India since captaining the team on the tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-knows-his-position-could-be-up-for-grabs-if-he-doesnt-score-runs-in-south-africa-monty-panesar-439949">Kohli knows his position could be up for grabs if he doesn't score runs in South Africa: Monty Panesar</a>

Rohit Sharma's fitness report awaited

Captain Rohit Sharma, who will be missing the three-match Test series due to a hamstring injury, is currently recovering at the NCA. The selectors are waiting on his fitness report before taking a call on who can be the stand-in captain in case the Hitman misses the ODI series as well.

The ODI will series between India and South Africa is all set to get underway from January 19.

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India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from Sunday (December 26). The Test series will be followed by three ODIs between the two sides.

India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from Sunday (December 26). The Test series will be followed by three ODIs between the two sides. India are yet to announce their squad for the ODIs and the selectors are likely to sit down to pick the squad for the series in the next 48 hours. R Ashwin is likely to make his comeback in India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, as per a report in Cricbuzz. Ashwin, who has been a vital cog in India's Test squad, has been sidelined from white-ball cricket for a long time. He was surprisingly included in India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 which marked his return to the T20 team after a gap of three years. The off-spinner had last played an ODI match for India in June 2017 and will now be making his comeback in the ODI squad after a gap of over three years. As per Cricbuzz, the Indian think tank including head coach Rahul Dravid and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma have been left impressed by Ashwin's performances for India in T20Is recently and see him as part of their plans ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup which will be played in India. Besides Ashwin, the selectors are also set to include youngsters Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the squad. Both Iyer and Gaikwad had brilliant IPL 2021 campaigns for their respective sides and have been making waves with their performances in the onging Vijay Hazare Trophy. While Gaikwad is the top-scorer with 603 runs from five matches, Iyer has 379 runs in six matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far. Iyer is being seen as one of the back-ups for all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is currently training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru to work on his fitness before he returns to the Indian team. The selectors are also set to take a call on the future of veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, who has not played for India since captaining the team on the tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year. Also Read: Kohli knows his position could be up for grabs if he doesn't score runs in South Africa: Monty Panesar Rohit Sharma's fitness report awaited Captain Rohit Sharma, who will be missing the three-match Test series due to a hamstring injury, is currently recovering at the NCA. The selectors are waiting on his fitness report before taking a call on who can be the stand-in captain in case the Hitman misses the ODI series as well. The ODI will series between India and South Africa is all set to get underway from January 19.

Gaikwad, Iyer in fray; R Ashwin likely to return in India's ODI squad for South Africa series - Report

Indian youngster Ruturaj Gaikwad has been enjoying a purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Captaining Maharashtra in the tournament, Gaikwad has dominated the run-scoring charts with over 600 runs so far in just five matches as he bangs on the selectors' door ahead of the ODI series against South Africa.

One of Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s best batters in the last couple of years, Gaikwad was the highest run-getter in IPL 2021 and has been in sensational form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. While he has already made his T20I debut for India, he might get to make his ODI debut in the upcoming South Africa ODI series.

Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra feels Gaikwad had done enough to get a chance in the ODI series against the Proteas. The CSK star has 603 runs in five matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far with as many as for centuries and an average of over 150.

Chopra said Gaikwad's name should be the first one for consideration when the squad is picked for the ODI series against South Africa. The former cricketer heaped praise on the 24-year-old stating that he has seen some of the right-hander's innings and it felt like he was playing against kids.

“The first name, the name at the top is Ruturaj Gaikwad. I mean he has hit four centuries, at one point he had hit three hundreds in three matches and no one was able to get him out. I saw some of his innings. It seemed like he was playing against kids," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"He was only playing the sweep shots against the fast bowlers, who does that? Inside out fours against the spinners. Bowlers were bowling alright but Ruturaj actually looked in a different league altogether," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-should-give-an-explanation-former-india-cricketer-on-virat-kohlis-odi-captaincy-row-437970">Sourav Ganguly should give an explanation: Former India cricketer on Virat Kohli's ODI captaincy row</a>

Chopra feels it will be almost impossible for the selectors to ignore Gaikwad, who has been in red-hot form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has already proved his worth in the IPL with a season to remember for CSK. The youngster is likely to make the cut in the ODI squad but it remains to be seen if he will get a chance in the playing XI.

“He made 603 runs at an average of 150 and a strike rate of nearly 113. There are four centuries in that, the recent scores are 168, 21, 124, 154* and 136. It actually felt that the guy is ready for the Indian team. It’s absolutely impossible that his name will not be discussed,” said Chopra.

Indian youngster Ruturaj Gaikwad has been enjoying a purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Captaining Maharashtra in the tournament, Gaikwad has dominated the run-scoring charts with over 600 runs so far in just five matches as he bangs on the selectors' door ahead of the ODI series against South Africa.

Indian youngster Ruturaj Gaikwad has been enjoying a purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Captaining Maharashtra in the tournament, Gaikwad has dominated the run-scoring charts with over 600 runs so far in just five matches as he bangs on the selectors' door ahead of the ODI series against South Africa. One of Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s best batters in the last couple of years, Gaikwad was the highest run-getter in IPL 2021 and has been in sensational form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. While he has already made his T20I debut for India, he might get to make his ODI debut in the upcoming South Africa ODI series. Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra feels Gaikwad had done enough to get a chance in the ODI series against the Proteas. The CSK star has 603 runs in five matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far with as many as for centuries and an average of over 150. Chopra said Gaikwad's name should be the first one for consideration when the squad is picked for the ODI series against South Africa. The former cricketer heaped praise on the 24-year-old stating that he has seen some of the right-hander's innings and it felt like he was playing against kids. “The first name, the name at the top is Ruturaj Gaikwad. I mean he has hit four centuries, at one point he had hit three hundreds in three matches and no one was able to get him out. I saw some of his innings. It seemed like he was playing against kids," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. "He was only playing the sweep shots against the fast bowlers, who does that? Inside out fours against the spinners. Bowlers were bowling alright but Ruturaj actually looked in a different league altogether," he added. Also Read: Sourav Ganguly should give an explanation: Former India cricketer on Virat Kohli's ODI captaincy row Chopra feels it will be almost impossible for the selectors to ignore Gaikwad, who has been in red-hot form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has already proved his worth in the IPL with a season to remember for CSK. The youngster is likely to make the cut in the ODI squad but it remains to be seen if he will get a chance in the playing XI. “He made 603 runs at an average of 150 and a strike rate of nearly 113. There are four centuries in that, the recent scores are 168, 21, 124, 154* and 136. It actually felt that the guy is ready for the Indian team. It’s absolutely impossible that his name will not be discussed,” said Chopra.

'Seemed like he was playing against kids': Aakash Chopra wants youngster in squad for South Africa ODIs

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals. The&nbsp;Maharashtra skipper and opening batsman Gaikwad's outstanding form in the domestic tournament continued on Tuesday (December 14) as the right-hander&nbsp;registered his fourth hundred of the competition, this time coming against Chandigarh.

In pursuit of 310, Maharashtra were off to a flier courtesy Ruturaj and Yash Nahar. Despite their 100-run opening stand, the side slipped from 109 for no loss to 131 for 4. Skipper Ruturaj, who many believe can also lead CSK in the coming years, remained undeterred and continued to add runs to score a whopping 168 and lead his side to an impressive five-wicket win. He also completed 600 runs in the competition courtesy his latest hundred.

With this knock, Ruturaj joined some big names such as Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal and Prithvi Shaw to score four centuries in one season of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Fo the unversed, Shaw had achieved the feat in the previous edition of the domestic tournament.

Ruturaj's innings was laced 12 fours and 6 sixes at a strike-rate of 127.77. The 24-year-old is in the form of his life and his peaking at the right time before India's ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, early next year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-we-cancel-sa-tour-aakash-chopra-reacts-after-rohit-sharmas-injury-adds-to-team-indias-woes-436825">Should we cancel SA tour? Aakash Chopra reacts after Rohit Sharma's injury adds to Team India's woes</a>

Many believe Ruturaj should be included in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India limited-overs setup, keeping an eye on the next year's T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup (to be held in India).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruturaj-gaikwad-is-not-18-19-dilip-vengsarkar-bats-for-csk-stars-selection-in-odi-squad-for-sa-tour-436623">'Ruturaj Gaikwad is not 18-19': Dilip Vengsarkar bats for CSK star's selection in ODI squad for SA tour</a>

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar called for Ruturaj's inclusion in the Indian team as soon as possible. "You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity", Vengsarkar told The Times Of India.

"He can bat at No. 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," he further added.

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals.

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals. The Maharashtra skipper and opening batsman Gaikwad's outstanding form in the domestic tournament continued on Tuesday (December 14) as the right-hander registered his fourth hundred of the competition, this time coming against Chandigarh. In pursuit of 310, Maharashtra were off to a flier courtesy Ruturaj and Yash Nahar. Despite their 100-run opening stand, the side slipped from 109 for no loss to 131 for 4. Skipper Ruturaj, who many believe can also lead CSK in the coming years, remained undeterred and continued to add runs to score a whopping 168 and lead his side to an impressive five-wicket win. He also completed 600 runs in the competition courtesy his latest hundred. With this knock, Ruturaj joined some big names such as Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal and Prithvi Shaw to score four centuries in one season of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Fo the unversed, Shaw had achieved the feat in the previous edition of the domestic tournament. Ruturaj's innings was laced 12 fours and 6 sixes at a strike-rate of 127.77. The 24-year-old is in the form of his life and his peaking at the right time before India's ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, early next year. ALSO READ | Should we cancel SA tour? Aakash Chopra reacts after Rohit Sharma's injury adds to Team India's woes Many believe Ruturaj should be included in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India limited-overs setup, keeping an eye on the next year's T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup (to be held in India). ALSO READ | 'Ruturaj Gaikwad is not 18-19': Dilip Vengsarkar bats for CSK star's selection in ODI squad for SA tour Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar called for Ruturaj's inclusion in the Indian team as soon as possible. "You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity", Vengsarkar told The Times Of India. "He can bat at No. 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," he further added.

Team India calling? Ruturaj Gaikwad banging national selectors' doors with 4th ton in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Former India cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has urged the selectors to pick in-form batter Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. India are scheduled to play a three-match Test series followed by three ODIs in South Africa with the tour starting from December 26. Vengsarkar feels Gaikwad has scored enough runs and deserves a spot in the ODI team.

Gaikwad was instrumental in helping Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lift their fourth IPL title this season. He finished as the highest run-getter of IPL 2021 with 635 runs in 16 matches and has continued his purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Gaikwad is currently the leading run-getter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 435 runs in just four matches including three centuries.

He has been knocking at the selectors' door for a while now and is likely to be selected in the ODI squad having already made his T20I debut earlier this year. Vengsarkar believes the 24-year-old should be picked straight away and given a proper run in the ODI series against South Africa.

"You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity," Vengsarkar was quoted as saying in an interview by Times of India.

Vengsarkar believes Gaikwad should be given an opportunity straight away against South Africa as he is 24 and has already proven himself with incredible consistency. The former India cricketer believes the youngster can also play at no.3 if not as an opener.

"He (Gaikwad) can bat at No 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," said Vengsarkar.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-upcoming-test-series-against-south-africa-priyank-panchal-likely-replacement-436590">Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement</a>

India's newly-appointed ODI captain Rohit Sharma has injured himself ahead of the start of the South Africa tour and has been ruled out of the Test series. He also remains in doubt to take part in the ODI series. In case, Rohit fails to recover in time for the ODIs, Gaikwad might be tested as an opener against South Africa. 
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Former India cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has urged the selectors to pick in-form batter Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa.

Former India cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has urged the selectors to pick in-form batter Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. India are scheduled to play a three-match Test series followed by three ODIs in South Africa with the tour starting from December 26. Vengsarkar feels Gaikwad has scored enough runs and deserves a spot in the ODI team. Gaikwad was instrumental in helping Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lift their fourth IPL title this season. He finished as the highest run-getter of IPL 2021 with 635 runs in 16 matches and has continued his purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Gaikwad is currently the leading run-getter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 435 runs in just four matches including three centuries. He has been knocking at the selectors' door for a while now and is likely to be selected in the ODI squad having already made his T20I debut earlier this year. Vengsarkar believes the 24-year-old should be picked straight away and given a proper run in the ODI series against South Africa. "You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity," Vengsarkar was quoted as saying in an interview by Times of India. Vengsarkar believes Gaikwad should be given an opportunity straight away against South Africa as he is 24 and has already proven himself with incredible consistency. The former India cricketer believes the youngster can also play at no.3 if not as an opener. "He (Gaikwad) can bat at No 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," said Vengsarkar. Also Read: Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement India's newly-appointed ODI captain Rohit Sharma has injured himself ahead of the start of the South Africa tour and has been ruled out of the Test series. He also remains in doubt to take part in the ODI series. In case, Rohit fails to recover in time for the ODIs, Gaikwad might be tested as an opener against South Africa.

'Ruturaj Gaikwad is not 18-19': Dilip Vengsarkar bats for CSK star's selection in ODI squad for SA tour

Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand.

Hence, his place in the limited-overs side is also very much up for grabs. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) wonder boy Venkatesh Iyer's stocks have seen a sharp rise following his breakthrough season in IPL 2021. While he was included in India's T20I line-up for the NZ series at home, the swashbuckling left-hander is delivering at the domestic level as well.

Iyer, who is representing Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, has been in stellar form and has amassed 348 runs in four outings, including scores of 112, 71 and 151. Thus, he is the second-highest run-getter -- only behind Maharastra's Ruturaj Gaikwad -- and is being considered as a replacement for Hardik in the limited-overs setup for the South Africa tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-reveal-babar-azam-responds-to-reporters-question-about-chat-with-virat-kohli-during-t20-world-cup-436542">'Won't reveal': Babar Azam responds to reporter's question about chat with Virat Kohli during T20 World Cup</a>

In this regard, former Indian keeper-batsman and selector Saba Karim has named the KKR opener as Hardik's like-for-like replacement in India's ODI and T20I setup. He has also called for Ruturaj's inclusion in ODIs and Tests. "I believe that Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad have almost entered the first-team squad, and I'm talking about white-ball cricket. If we have to start the preparation for the 2023 World Cup, these two players should be part of the squad as soon as possible.

"They should be given as much exposure as possible. Both these players provide a different spectrum for the team. Gaikwad can be the backup opener with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul going strong. On the other hand, Iyer has performed really well while batting at No. 5 or No. 6 in the Vijay Hazare trophy. If we are looking at the replacement for Hardik Pandya, we have already found the player," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-vs-west-indies-t20is-full-schedule-squads-telecast-and-live-streaming-details-436530">Pakistan vs West Indies, T20Is: Full schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details!</a>

Karim also opined that Indian head coach Rahul Dravid needs to start creating a core set of players in the white-ball formats, with plenty of ICC events lined-up every year.

"Rahul Dravid has seen these players for quite a while now. The way Dravid used to prepare as a player, he must be prepared in the same way as a coach. He must have thought about a core of 23-25 players in the white-ball cricket circuit. He must have started the preparation for the World Cups Venkatesh Iyer should definitely be part of the South Africa tour. He must then be tracked be in the Ranji Trophy as well because I believe he is an all-format player. It is also the time that Gaikwad is in contention for the Test squad," Karim further added.

At present, India is preparing for their departure to South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence in Centurion on December 26 with the Test series followed by the ODIs.

Rohit Sharma will lead the limited-overs side whereas Virat Kohli will continue as the Test captain.

Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand.

Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand. Hence, his place in the limited-overs side is also very much up for grabs. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) wonder boy Venkatesh Iyer's stocks have seen a sharp rise following his breakthrough season in IPL 2021. While he was included in India's T20I line-up for the NZ series at home, the swashbuckling left-hander is delivering at the domestic level as well. Iyer, who is representing Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, has been in stellar form and has amassed 348 runs in four outings, including scores of 112, 71 and 151. Thus, he is the second-highest run-getter -- only behind Maharastra's Ruturaj Gaikwad -- and is being considered as a replacement for Hardik in the limited-overs setup for the South Africa tour. ALSO READ | 'Won't reveal': Babar Azam responds to reporter's question about chat with Virat Kohli during T20 World Cup In this regard, former Indian keeper-batsman and selector Saba Karim has named the KKR opener as Hardik's like-for-like replacement in India's ODI and T20I setup. He has also called for Ruturaj's inclusion in ODIs and Tests. "I believe that Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad have almost entered the first-team squad, and I'm talking about white-ball cricket. If we have to start the preparation for the 2023 World Cup, these two players should be part of the squad as soon as possible. "They should be given as much exposure as possible. Both these players provide a different spectrum for the team. Gaikwad can be the backup opener with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul going strong. On the other hand, Iyer has performed really well while batting at No. 5 or No. 6 in the Vijay Hazare trophy. If we are looking at the replacement for Hardik Pandya, we have already found the player," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast. ALSO READ | Pakistan vs West Indies, T20Is: Full schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details! Karim also opined that Indian head coach Rahul Dravid needs to start creating a core set of players in the white-ball formats, with plenty of ICC events lined-up every year. "Rahul Dravid has seen these players for quite a while now. The way Dravid used to prepare as a player, he must be prepared in the same way as a coach. He must have thought about a core of 23-25 players in the white-ball cricket circuit. He must have started the preparation for the World Cups Venkatesh Iyer should definitely be part of the South Africa tour. He must then be tracked be in the Ranji Trophy as well because I believe he is an all-format player. It is also the time that Gaikwad is in contention for the Test squad," Karim further added. At present, India is preparing for their departure to South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence in Centurion on December 26 with the Test series followed by the ODIs. Rohit Sharma will lead the limited-overs side whereas Virat Kohli will continue as the Test captain.

We have already found the player: Saba Karim names Hardik Pandya's replacement before South Africa ODIs

Venkatesh Iyer's rise has been a phenomenal one. He is one of the most exciting youngsters in Indian cricket at present and has already made his T20 debut for the country after impressing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Iyer is in line to make his ODI debut after playing T20Is for India and is likely to be named in the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa.

Iyer had played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of IPL 2021 with his splendid performances in the second leg of the tournament in UAE. In his debut campaign in the IPL, Iyer scored 370 runs and picked up 3 wickets in the tournament and has continued his purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy where he is currently the second-highest run-getter of the tournament with 348 runs from four matches so far.

With Hardik Pandya currently recovering from his injury at the National Cricket Academy, selectors are certain to pick Iyer as an all-rounder in India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, as per a report in PTI. Besides his explosive batting, Iyer has also been impressive with the ball in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has eight wickets to his name in four matches in the tournament.

"Venkatesh is surely going to South Africa. He is bowling 9 or 10 overs in every game and with Hardik still recuperating, it is the best time to give him chance and get him battle-ready for the bigger events ahead," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-or-shreyas-iyer-msk-prasad-gives-his-take-on-middle-order-conundrum-ahead-of-sa-series-436290">Vihari or Iyer? MSK Prasad gives his take on middle-order conundrum ahead of SA series</a>

While he is an opening batter, Iyer is likely to be used in the middle-order for India and can be groomed as a finisher looking forward to the T20 World Cup next year and the ODI World Cup in 2023. With captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul set to continue as openers and Ishan Kishan also in the fray, Iyer will have to adapt to middle-order.

"The new team management absolutely did the right thing in advising him to bat in the middle order. As of now, if he doesn't get injured, Venkatesh is a certainty for the South Africa one-dayers," said the BCCI source.

Apart from Iyer, another youngster who is in contention to feature in the ODI squad is Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been absolutely bossing it with the bat in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy after a stellar IPL 2021 season where he bagged the Orange Cap for being the highest run-getter of the tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-picking-up-cones-wickets-sourav-ganguly-shares-anecdote-to-highlight-rahul-dravids-humility-436269">'He was picking up cones, wickets': Sourav Ganguly shares anecdote to highlight Rahul Dravid's humility</a>

While Gaikwad has been knocking at the selectors' door for a while now, the right-hander might still be behind Shikhar Dhawan in the pecking order. Dhawan is likely to get a few chances in the ODI series against South Africa before he is sidelined for someone like Gaikwad.

"Technically, last time India played 50-over series, Dhawan was leading India and also had a match-winning knock in Sri Lanka," the BCCI source told PTI.

"He has the ability to score runs just when he has back to the wall. So while Gaikwad should be there in the squad, I think selectors might give one last chance to Dhawan, maybe take him and give him a game or two," he added.

(With agency inputs) 
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Venkatesh Iyer's rise has been a phenomenal one. He is one of the most exciting youngsters in Indian cricket at present and has already made his T20 debut for the country after impressing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Venkatesh Iyer's rise has been a phenomenal one. He is one of the most exciting youngsters in Indian cricket at present and has already made his T20 debut for the country after impressing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Iyer is in line to make his ODI debut after playing T20Is for India and is likely to be named in the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa. Iyer had played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of IPL 2021 with his splendid performances in the second leg of the tournament in UAE. In his debut campaign in the IPL, Iyer scored 370 runs and picked up 3 wickets in the tournament and has continued his purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy where he is currently the second-highest run-getter of the tournament with 348 runs from four matches so far. With Hardik Pandya currently recovering from his injury at the National Cricket Academy, selectors are certain to pick Iyer as an all-rounder in India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, as per a report in PTI. Besides his explosive batting, Iyer has also been impressive with the ball in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has eight wickets to his name in four matches in the tournament. "Venkatesh is surely going to South Africa. He is bowling 9 or 10 overs in every game and with Hardik still recuperating, it is the best time to give him chance and get him battle-ready for the bigger events ahead," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by PTI. Also Read: Vihari or Iyer? MSK Prasad gives his take on middle-order conundrum ahead of SA series While he is an opening batter, Iyer is likely to be used in the middle-order for India and can be groomed as a finisher looking forward to the T20 World Cup next year and the ODI World Cup in 2023. With captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul set to continue as openers and Ishan Kishan also in the fray, Iyer will have to adapt to middle-order. "The new team management absolutely did the right thing in advising him to bat in the middle order. As of now, if he doesn't get injured, Venkatesh is a certainty for the South Africa one-dayers," said the BCCI source. Apart from Iyer, another youngster who is in contention to feature in the ODI squad is Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been absolutely bossing it with the bat in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy after a stellar IPL 2021 season where he bagged the Orange Cap for being the highest run-getter of the tournament. Also Read: 'He was picking up cones, wickets': Sourav Ganguly shares anecdote to highlight Rahul Dravid's humility While Gaikwad has been knocking at the selectors' door for a while now, the right-hander might still be behind Shikhar Dhawan in the pecking order. Dhawan is likely to get a few chances in the ODI series against South Africa before he is sidelined for someone like Gaikwad. "Technically, last time India played 50-over series, Dhawan was leading India and also had a match-winning knock in Sri Lanka," the BCCI source told PTI. "He has the ability to score runs just when he has back to the wall. So while Gaikwad should be there in the squad, I think selectors might give one last chance to Dhawan, maybe take him and give him a game or two," he added. (With agency inputs)

Venkatesh Iyer set for ODI debut, likely to be named in squad for South Africa tour - Report

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years witnessed the rise of a number of youngsters who have gone on to become world-beaters for their respective countries. IPL has served as a perfect platform for budding Indian cricketers, who have made the most of the opportunities&nbsp;in the league and gone on to represent the country at the highest level.

A number of youngsters have also been rewarded by the franchises for their performances and have become millionaires at a tender age. It was no different this time around as a number of young Indian players saw their salaries skyrocket after being retained by their respective franchises.

Some capped as well as uncapped youngsters witnessed their salaries grow multiple folds after being retained by their respective teams. While Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star Venkatesh Iyer saw his salary grow fourty times to reach Rs 8 crore (INR 80 million) from Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million), Chennai Super Kings opener Ruturaj Gaikwad saw his salary grow thirty times to Rs 6 crore (INR 60 million) from Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million).

Here is a look at five youngsters who received&nbsp;massive salary hikes in IPL ahead of mega auction:

1) Venkatesh Iyer (Rs 20 lakh to Rs 8 crore)

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Venkatesh Iyer was an unknown entity in Indian cricket before the second leg of IPL 2021 earlier this year. Making his debut for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the league, Iyer took the second leg of the season by a storm as he produced consistent performances with the bat while opening the innings.

The batting all-rounder notched up 370 runs and picked up three wickets in ten matches to help KKR spark a turnaround and make it to the final of IPL 2021. The young all-rounder was on a salary of Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) before being retained for a staggering Rs 8 crore (INR 80 million) by the franchise ahead of the mega auction.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-which-side-be-the-richest-revealing-purse-of-8-existing-teams-before-mega-auction-433317">IPL 2022: Which side be the richest? Revealing purse of 8 existing teams before mega auction</a>

2) Ruturaj Gaikwad (Rs 20 lakh to Rs 6 core)

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) would have had no second thoughts about retaining Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been fabulous as an opener for the franchise in the last two seasons. After impressing in his debut IPL campaign last year, Gaikwad continued his purple patch in IPL 2021 and went on to bag the Orange Cap for being the highest run-getter of the season with 635 runs from 16 matches for the four-time champions.

Gaikwad played an instrumental role in CSK's fourth title triumph in IPL 2021 as he formed a formidable opening partnership with Faf du Plessis at the top and the duo got CSK off to good starts consistently throughout the season. Gaikwad was on a salary of Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) per season and saw it rise thirty times to Rs 6 crore (INR 60 million) after being retained.

3) Abdul Samad - Rs 20 lakh to Rs 4 crore&nbsp;

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Swashbuckling young batter Abdul Samad saw his salary increase 20 times from Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) to Rs 4 crore (INR 40 million) after being retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad. Known for his big-hitting ability, Samad has been mentored by former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan. He scored only 111 runs in 11 matches in IPL 2021 but SRH have shown their faith in him by retaining him ahead of the mega auction.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-khan-to-ben-stokes-top-5-overseas-players-released-by-their-teams-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-433867">Rashid Khan to Ben Stokes: Top 5 overseas players released by their teams ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

4) Umran Malik - Rs 20 lakh to Rs 4 crore&nbsp;

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Another uncapped player&nbsp;retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad for a huge amount, Umran Malik was the find of IPL 2021 for the Orange Army. Malik recorded the fastest ball by an Indian in the tournament this year by clocking over 151 kph and took the cricket fraternity by a storm with his raw pace. He was on the minimum salary of Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) but will now be making Rs 4 crore (INR 40 million) per season after being retained by the side.

5)&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh - Rs 20 lakh to Rs 4 crore&nbsp;

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Fast bowler Arshdeep Singh was the second-choice retention for Punjab Kings ahead of the IPL mega auction. He saw his salary grow from Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) per season to Rs 4 crore (INR 40 million) per season after being retained by the franchise. He is one of the best fast bowling prospects in India at present and will be groomed by the IPL franchise to become a world-beater in the future.

 
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The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years witnessed the rise of a number of youngsters who have gone on to become world-beaters for their respective countries.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has over the years witnessed the rise of a number of youngsters who have gone on to become world-beaters for their respective countries. IPL has served as a perfect platform for budding Indian cricketers, who have made the most of the opportunities in the league and gone on to represent the country at the highest level. A number of youngsters have also been rewarded by the franchises for their performances and have become millionaires at a tender age. It was no different this time around as a number of young Indian players saw their salaries skyrocket after being retained by their respective franchises. Some capped as well as uncapped youngsters witnessed their salaries grow multiple folds after being retained by their respective teams. While Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star Venkatesh Iyer saw his salary grow fourty times to reach Rs 8 crore (INR 80 million) from Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million), Chennai Super Kings opener Ruturaj Gaikwad saw his salary grow thirty times to Rs 6 crore (INR 60 million) from Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million). Here is a look at five youngsters who received massive salary hikes in IPL ahead of mega auction: 1) Venkatesh Iyer (Rs 20 lakh to Rs 8 crore) × Venkatesh Iyer was an unknown entity in Indian cricket before the second leg of IPL 2021 earlier this year. Making his debut for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the league, Iyer took the second leg of the season by a storm as he produced consistent performances with the bat while opening the innings. The batting all-rounder notched up 370 runs and picked up three wickets in ten matches to help KKR spark a turnaround and make it to the final of IPL 2021. The young all-rounder was on a salary of Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) before being retained for a staggering Rs 8 crore (INR 80 million) by the franchise ahead of the mega auction. Also Read: IPL 2022: Which side be the richest? Revealing purse of 8 existing teams before mega auction 2) Ruturaj Gaikwad (Rs 20 lakh to Rs 6 core) × Chennai Super Kings (CSK) would have had no second thoughts about retaining Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been fabulous as an opener for the franchise in the last two seasons. After impressing in his debut IPL campaign last year, Gaikwad continued his purple patch in IPL 2021 and went on to bag the Orange Cap for being the highest run-getter of the season with 635 runs from 16 matches for the four-time champions. Gaikwad played an instrumental role in CSK's fourth title triumph in IPL 2021 as he formed a formidable opening partnership with Faf du Plessis at the top and the duo got CSK off to good starts consistently throughout the season. Gaikwad was on a salary of Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) per season and saw it rise thirty times to Rs 6 crore (INR 60 million) after being retained. 3) Abdul Samad - Rs 20 lakh to Rs 4 crore × Swashbuckling young batter Abdul Samad saw his salary increase 20 times from Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) to Rs 4 crore (INR 40 million) after being retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad. Known for his big-hitting ability, Samad has been mentored by former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan. He scored only 111 runs in 11 matches in IPL 2021 but SRH have shown their faith in him by retaining him ahead of the mega auction. Also Read: Rashid Khan to Ben Stokes: Top 5 overseas players released by their teams ahead of IPL mega auction 4) Umran Malik - Rs 20 lakh to Rs 4 crore × Another uncapped player retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad for a huge amount, Umran Malik was the find of IPL 2021 for the Orange Army. Malik recorded the fastest ball by an Indian in the tournament this year by clocking over 151 kph and took the cricket fraternity by a storm with his raw pace. He was on the minimum salary of Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) but will now be making Rs 4 crore (INR 40 million) per season after being retained by the side. 5) Arshdeep Singh - Rs 20 lakh to Rs 4 crore × Fast bowler Arshdeep Singh was the second-choice retention for Punjab Kings ahead of the IPL mega auction. He saw his salary grow from Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) per season to Rs 4 crore (INR 40 million) per season after being retained by the franchise. He is one of the best fast bowling prospects in India at present and will be groomed by the IPL franchise to become a world-beater in the future.

From Rs 20 lakh to 8 crore! Indian youngsters who earned massive salary hikes ahead of IPL mega auction

The list of retained players were revealed by the eight existing IPL franchises on Tuesday evening (November 30). The four-time winners and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) retained the likes of skipper MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad.&nbsp;

Thus, CSK let go off many players such as Mr. IPL Suresh Raina, also fondly called the&nbsp;Chinna Thala (right hand of the leader)&nbsp;by the local fans, Dwayne Bravo, Faf du Plessis, Imran Tahir, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, etc. The Yellow Army will look to rebuild and form a new core of players in the squad, however, the CSK CEO has revealed that the franchise will look to try and get back opener Faf du Plessis.

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In a video posted by CSK franchise, K Viswanathan said, "We look forward to getting them back. For example, Faf has been a team man who has taken us to the finals of two important seasons. It will be our endeavor to go and try for him. But it's not in our hands." He added, "We wish them all the very best wherever they are. We look forward to having a very good 2022."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-which-side-be-the-richest-revealing-purse-of-8-existing-teams-before-mega-auction-433317">IPL 2022: Which side be the richest? Revealing purse of 8 existing teams before mega auction</a>

While Raina has been CSK's leading run-getter in IPL (5,529), the swashbuckling left-hander's stocks had gone down since the franchise's readmission. Moreover, Faf (CSK's third-highest run-getter with 2,932 runs) formed a daunting opening pair with Ruturaj in IPL 2021 and has been one of their star performers with the bat in the last two editions.

For the unversed, the Dhoni-led CSK franchise will head into the next year's mega auction with a total of 480 million in their purse. The mega auction is likely to be held in early January. The next edition will see two more teams taking part in the cash-rich league, in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad.

The list of retained players were revealed by the eight existing IPL franchises on Tuesday evening (November 30). The four-time winners and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) retained the likes of skipper MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad.

The list of retained players were revealed by the eight existing IPL franchises on Tuesday evening (November 30). The four-time winners and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) retained the likes of skipper MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. Thus, CSK let go off many players such as Mr. IPL Suresh Raina, also fondly called the Chinna Thala (right hand of the leader) by the local fans, Dwayne Bravo, Faf du Plessis, Imran Tahir, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, etc. The Yellow Army will look to rebuild and form a new core of players in the squad, however, the CSK CEO has revealed that the franchise will look to try and get back opener Faf du Plessis. ALSO READ | CSK, RCB & Co. are you listening? Jamacian sprinter Usain Bolt eyeing cricket career, keen to play in IPL In a video posted by CSK franchise, K Viswanathan said, "We look forward to getting them back. For example, Faf has been a team man who has taken us to the finals of two important seasons. It will be our endeavor to go and try for him. But it's not in our hands." He added, "We wish them all the very best wherever they are. We look forward to having a very good 2022." ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Which side be the richest? Revealing purse of 8 existing teams before mega auction While Raina has been CSK's leading run-getter in IPL (5,529), the swashbuckling left-hander's stocks had gone down since the franchise's readmission. Moreover, Faf (CSK's third-highest run-getter with 2,932 runs) formed a daunting opening pair with Ruturaj in IPL 2021 and has been one of their star performers with the bat in the last two editions. For the unversed, the Dhoni-led CSK franchise will head into the next year's mega auction with a total of 480 million in their purse. The mega auction is likely to be held in early January. The next edition will see two more teams taking part in the cash-rich league, in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad.

Not Suresh Raina! CSK CEO names ex-player MS Dhoni & Co. will try to 'get back' in IPL 2022 mega auction

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have retained captain MS Dhoni and three others ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. There were a lot of speculations surrounding Dhoni's future after he led CSK to their fourth IPL title this year, however, CSK have put the rumours to bed by retaining their charismatic leader.

39-year-old Dhoni is no more the player he once was when it comes to his batting and his struggles have been evident in the last couple of seasons of the IPL. However, Dhoni remains one of the best captains in the league and marshalled his troops to perfection last season.

He is unlikely to continue for the full three seasons after being retained but Dhoni will certainly lead CSK in IPL 2022 next year. The four-time champions have also retained star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, opening batter Ruturak Gaikwad and all-rounder Moeen Ali.

Dhoni has been retained by CSK as the second-choice player for Rs 12&nbsp;crore (INR 120 million) while Jadeja has been the first-choice retention for Rs 16&nbsp;crore (INR 160 million). Ali is CSK's third-choice retained player and will be drawing a salary of Rs 8 crore (INR 80 million) while Gaikwad&nbsp;has been retained for Rs 6&nbsp;crore (INR 60&nbsp;million).

Chennai Super Kings complete list of retained players:

Ravindra Jadeja - Rs 16 crore

MS Dhoni - Rs 12 crore

Moeen Ali - Rs 8 crore&nbsp;

Ruturaj Gaikwad - Rs 6 crore&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-complete-retentions-list-rohit-sharma-jasprit-bumrah-suryakumar-yadav-and-kieron-pollard-retained-433065">MI complete retentions list: Rohit, Bumrah, Suryakumar&nbsp;and Pollard retained</a>

While Dhoni and Jadeja was obvious choices for CSK, Ali, who was roped in by the franchise last year has been retained ahead of the likes of Sam Curran and Faf du Plessis. Ali had notched up 357 runs and picked up six wickets for CSK in IPL 2020 helping them win their fourth title.

Gaikwad has been rewarded after a stelar season in IPL 2020 where he bagged the Orange Cap for being the highest run-getter. Gaikwad amassed 635 runs in IPL 2020 and was one of the most consistent batters in the league. He is likely to continue opening the innings for CSK for the next three years.

&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have retained captain MS Dhoni and three others ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. There were a lot of speculations surrounding Dhoni's future after he led CSK to their fourth IPL title this year, however, CSK have put the rumours to bed by retaining their charismatic leader.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have retained captain MS Dhoni and three others ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction. There were a lot of speculations surrounding Dhoni's future after he led CSK to their fourth IPL title this year, however, CSK have put the rumours to bed by retaining their charismatic leader. 39-year-old Dhoni is no more the player he once was when it comes to his batting and his struggles have been evident in the last couple of seasons of the IPL. However, Dhoni remains one of the best captains in the league and marshalled his troops to perfection last season. He is unlikely to continue for the full three seasons after being retained but Dhoni will certainly lead CSK in IPL 2022 next year. The four-time champions have also retained star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, opening batter Ruturak Gaikwad and all-rounder Moeen Ali. Dhoni has been retained by CSK as the second-choice player for Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million) while Jadeja has been the first-choice retention for Rs 16 crore (INR 160 million). Ali is CSK's third-choice retained player and will be drawing a salary of Rs 8 crore (INR 80 million) while Gaikwad has been retained for Rs 6 crore (INR 60 million). Chennai Super Kings complete list of retained players: Ravindra Jadeja - Rs 16 crore MS Dhoni - Rs 12 crore Moeen Ali - Rs 8 crore Ruturaj Gaikwad - Rs 6 crore Also Read: MI complete retentions list: Rohit, Bumrah, Suryakumar and Pollard retained While Dhoni and Jadeja was obvious choices for CSK, Ali, who was roped in by the franchise last year has been retained ahead of the likes of Sam Curran and Faf du Plessis. Ali had notched up 357 runs and picked up six wickets for CSK in IPL 2020 helping them win their fourth title. Gaikwad has been rewarded after a stelar season in IPL 2020 where he bagged the Orange Cap for being the highest run-getter. Gaikwad amassed 635 runs in IPL 2020 and was one of the most consistent batters in the league. He is likely to continue opening the innings for CSK for the next three years.

Chennai Super Kings complete retention list: CSK retain MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja and two others

India will be looking to register a 3-0 clean sweep against New Zealand when they take on the visitors in the third and final T20I of the ongoing three-match series at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday (November 21). With back to back wins in the first two matches, India have already sealed the series.

The dead-rubber on Sunday can prove to be a great opportunity for the hosts to test their bench strength. With the likes of fast bowler Avesh Khan and young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad waiting in the wings, India might give a chance to the youngsters to showcase their talent against a world-class opponent.

Both Gaikwad and Avesh have been rewarded for their stellar campaigns in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as the CSK opener bagged the Orange Cap this season for being the highest run-getter in the league while Avesh was the leading wicket-taker for his side Delhi Capitals.

KL Rahul might take a rest from the dead-rubber to make way for Gaikwad at the top while Avesh might come in place of senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan can also replace Rishabh Pant, who has played the first two matches.

Yuzvendra Chahal has a chance of replacing R Ashwin, who was part of India's T20 World Cup 2021 squad and has played both matches in the ongoing series. India have enough bench strength to make a number of changes in their playing XI for the final T20I but it remains to be seen how skipper Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid go about their business.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/meaningless-series-mitchell-mcclenaghan-responds-as-fan-taunts-him-over-nzs-loss-against-india-430899">&nbsp;'Meaningless series': Mitchell McClenaghan responds as fan taunts him over NZ's loss against India</a>

It might be a dead rubber but India will be hoping to register a complete clean sweep against the finals of the recently-concluded T20 World Cup and make a statement to start the Rohit-Dravid era in Indian cricket. The third T20I will be played in front of a sold-out crowd at the Eden Gardens on Sunday.

India's predicted playing XI for 3rd T20I against New Zealand:

Rohit Sharma (c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Venkatesh Iyer, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan

&nbsp;

India will be looking to register a 3-0 clean sweep against New Zealand when they take on the visitors in the third and final T20I of the ongoing three-match series at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday (November 21).

India will be looking to register a 3-0 clean sweep against New Zealand when they take on the visitors in the third and final T20I of the ongoing three-match series at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday (November 21). With back to back wins in the first two matches, India have already sealed the series. The dead-rubber on Sunday can prove to be a great opportunity for the hosts to test their bench strength. With the likes of fast bowler Avesh Khan and young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad waiting in the wings, India might give a chance to the youngsters to showcase their talent against a world-class opponent. Both Gaikwad and Avesh have been rewarded for their stellar campaigns in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as the CSK opener bagged the Orange Cap this season for being the highest run-getter in the league while Avesh was the leading wicket-taker for his side Delhi Capitals. KL Rahul might take a rest from the dead-rubber to make way for Gaikwad at the top while Avesh might come in place of senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan can also replace Rishabh Pant, who has played the first two matches. Yuzvendra Chahal has a chance of replacing R Ashwin, who was part of India's T20 World Cup 2021 squad and has played both matches in the ongoing series. India have enough bench strength to make a number of changes in their playing XI for the final T20I but it remains to be seen how skipper Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid go about their business. Also Read: 'Meaningless series': Mitchell McClenaghan responds as fan taunts him over NZ's loss against India It might be a dead rubber but India will be hoping to register a complete clean sweep against the finals of the recently-concluded T20 World Cup and make a statement to start the Rohit-Dravid era in Indian cricket. The third T20I will be played in front of a sold-out crowd at the Eden Gardens on Sunday. India's predicted playing XI for 3rd T20I against New Zealand: Rohit Sharma (c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Venkatesh Iyer, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan

Ruturaj Gaikwad, Avesh Khan in? India's predicted playing XI for third T20I against New Zealand

The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) in India on Tuesday (November 09) announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand. The T20I series against Kane Williamson's men will be India's first white-ball assignment post their disappointing exit from the onging T20 World Cup 2021. India failed to make it to the semi-finals in the showpiece event as they bowed out of the T20 World Cup from the group stages after three wins and two losses in five matches.

Virat Kohli, who has stepped down as the captain in T2OIs, has been rested for the New Zealand series at home. Rohit Sharma has been appointed as India's full-time captain after Kohli's exit and will be leading the side against the Kiwis. Senior spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who was snubbed from the T20 World Cup squad has made his comeback while the likes of Rahul Chahar and Varun Chakravarthy have been dropped from the team.

Along with Kohli, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya have also been rested for the New Zealand T20Is. Some of the young guns who performed exceptionally well in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 have been rewarded for their performances.

The likes of Hashal Patel and Venkatesh Iyer have earned their maiden national call-ups after a stellar IPL campaign this year. Harshwal was the leading wicket-taker in IPL 2021 with 32 wickets in 15 matches for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Venkatesh took the season by a storm with his impressive all-round performances in his debut season as he scored 370 runs and picked up three wickets in ten matches for Kolkata Knight Riders.

Apart from Harshal and Venkatesh, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Avesh Khan, who had amazing campaigns in IPL 2021 have also been included in the 15-man squad for the New Zealand T20I series at home. Shreyas Iyer and Deepak Chahar, who were in the reserves for the T20 World Cup 2021 have also made their comebacks in the original squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-explains-why-he-quit-indias-t20i-captaincy-its-been-6-7-years-of-intense-cricket-427830">Virat Kohli explains why he quit India's T20I captaincy: 'It's been 6-7 years of intense cricket</a>

Gaikwad is likely to be tested out as an opener while Iyer might take Kohli's no.3 spot in the batting line-up. Axar Patel has been roped in as a like-to-like replacement for Ravindra Jadeja while R Ashwin has retained his place in the team. Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan are the two wicket-keepers in the squad.

Rahul will be acting as Rohit's deputy in his first assignment as India's full-time captain in T20Is. Rohit has a stellar record as a captain in the Indian Premier League, with five titles under his belt at Mumbai Indians and will be looking to help India recover from their disastrous T20 World Cup debacle and fight back with the focus on the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia next year.

India will play three T20Is against New Zealand starting from November 17th. The first T20I will be played in Jaipur, followed by the second one in Ranchi on November 19&nbsp;and the third in Kolkata on November 21.

India’s T20I squad for New Zealand series

Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed&nbsp;Siraj 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) in India on Tuesday (November 09) announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand. The T20I series against Kane Williamson's men will be India's first white-ball assignment post their disappointing exit from the onging T20 World Cup 2021.

The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) in India on Tuesday (November 09) announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand. The T20I series against Kane Williamson's men will be India's first white-ball assignment post their disappointing exit from the onging T20 World Cup 2021. India failed to make it to the semi-finals in the showpiece event as they bowed out of the T20 World Cup from the group stages after three wins and two losses in five matches. Virat Kohli, who has stepped down as the captain in T2OIs, has been rested for the New Zealand series at home. Rohit Sharma has been appointed as India's full-time captain after Kohli's exit and will be leading the side against the Kiwis. Senior spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who was snubbed from the T20 World Cup squad has made his comeback while the likes of Rahul Chahar and Varun Chakravarthy have been dropped from the team. Along with Kohli, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya have also been rested for the New Zealand T20Is. Some of the young guns who performed exceptionally well in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 have been rewarded for their performances. The likes of Hashal Patel and Venkatesh Iyer have earned their maiden national call-ups after a stellar IPL campaign this year. Harshwal was the leading wicket-taker in IPL 2021 with 32 wickets in 15 matches for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Venkatesh took the season by a storm with his impressive all-round performances in his debut season as he scored 370 runs and picked up three wickets in ten matches for Kolkata Knight Riders. Apart from Harshal and Venkatesh, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Avesh Khan, who had amazing campaigns in IPL 2021 have also been included in the 15-man squad for the New Zealand T20I series at home. Shreyas Iyer and Deepak Chahar, who were in the reserves for the T20 World Cup 2021 have also made their comebacks in the original squad. Also Read: Virat Kohli explains why he quit India's T20I captaincy: 'It's been 6-7 years of intense cricket Gaikwad is likely to be tested out as an opener while Iyer might take Kohli's no.3 spot in the batting line-up. Axar Patel has been roped in as a like-to-like replacement for Ravindra Jadeja while R Ashwin has retained his place in the team. Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan are the two wicket-keepers in the squad. Rahul will be acting as Rohit's deputy in his first assignment as India's full-time captain in T20Is. Rohit has a stellar record as a captain in the Indian Premier League, with five titles under his belt at Mumbai Indians and will be looking to help India recover from their disastrous T20 World Cup debacle and fight back with the focus on the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia next year. India will play three T20Is against New Zealand starting from November 17th. The first T20I will be played in Jaipur, followed by the second one in Ranchi on November 19 and the third in Kolkata on November 21. India’s T20I squad for New Zealand series Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj

Rohit named captain; Gaikwad, Avesh, Harshal make the cut in India's 15-man squad for New Zealand T20Is

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) got the better of Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to lift their fourth title and extend their dominance in the cash-rich league. It was a fitting end to a thrilling season as CSK proved why they are one of the most consistent teams in the league.

A number of players played their part in Dhoni &amp; Co.'s remarkable turnaround this season after missing out on a spot in the playoffs last year. Ruturaj Gaikwad turned out to be one of their best performers as he enjoyed a purple patch with the willow throughout the season.

Gaikwad, who is a classy opener with textbook cricketing shots and brilliant technique, had a dream season as he finished as the highest run-getter in the league with an impressive 635 runs from just 16 matches. He became the youngest batter to take the Orange Cap and the&nbsp;first CSK player to win the Orange Cap and the league in the same year.

Gaikwad's opening partner Faf du Plessis came close to pipping him in the race for the Orange Cap with a brilliant knock of 86 runs in the final but fell short by just three runs as he finished on the second spot with 633 runs from 16 matches in IPL 2021.&nbsp;

Here is a look at the top five highest run-getters in IPL 2021:

1) Ruturaj Gaikwad (635 runs)

One of the finds for Chennai Super Kings, Ruturaj&nbsp;Gaikwad continued from where he had left last season and delivered consistently as an opener. The youngster formed a formidable opening partnership with Faf du Plessis and scored runs one game after another. He finished the season with 635 runs from 16 matches with the help of one century and four half-centuries at a brilliant average of 45.35 and a strike rate of over 136. The 24-year-old became the youngest Orange Cap winner in IPL history.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-can-beat-ms-dhonis-legacy-in-team-india-and-chennai-super-kings-virender-sehwag-421477">No one can beat MS Dhoni's legacy in Team India and Chennai Super Kings: Virender Sehwag</a>

2) Faf du Plessis (633 runs)

The second CSK opener on the list, Faf du Plessis stood up in the absence of Shane Watson and led CSK's batting unit from the front. Du Plessis slammed a match-winning knock of 86 runs in the final against KKR and came close to winning the Orage Cap but ended up falling short by just three runs at the end. Du Plessis amassed 633 runs in 16 games at an average of over 45 and a strike rate close to 140 to finish 2nd on the list of highest run-getters in IPL 2021.

3) KL Rahul (626 runs)

Punjab Kings captain KL Rahul was once again the lone warrior for his side in what was yet another disappointing season for the Punjab outfit. Rahul continued his remarkable consistency and piled on 626 runs in just 13 matches at a stunning average of 62.60. He slammed six half-centuries in 13 matches and finished the season as the third-highest run-getter. Had Punjab Kings made it to the playoffs, Rahul might have emerged as the leading run-getter in IPL 2021.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-csk-claim-4th-title-complete-list-of-ipl-winners-since-2008-421316">MS Dhoni's CSK claim 4th title: Complete list of IPL winners since 2008</a>

4) Shikhar Dhawan (587 runs)

One of the most consistent openers in the IPL over the years, Shikhar Dhawan once again enjoyed a brilliant campaign with the willow. The senior batter notched up 587 runs in 16 matches to help Delhi Capitals make it to the playoffs and finish on top of the table during the league stages. He averaged over 39 this season but his strike rate remained on the lower side at 124.62.&nbsp;

5) Glenn Maxwell (513 runs)

Many had questioned RCB splurging out a whopping Rs 142.5 million on the Australian all-rounder at the player auction ahead of IPL 2021. However, Maxwell went on to have a tremendous season for RCB and slammed 513 runs in 15 matches for the Virat Kohli-led side. Maxwell proved to be RCB's best batter as he notched up six fifties and struck at an impressive 144.10. He finished as the fifth-highest run-getter of IPL 2021.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) got the better of Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to lift their fourth title and extend their dominance in the cash-rich league.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) got the better of Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 to lift their fourth title and extend their dominance in the cash-rich league. It was a fitting end to a thrilling season as CSK proved why they are one of the most consistent teams in the league. A number of players played their part in Dhoni & Co.'s remarkable turnaround this season after missing out on a spot in the playoffs last year. Ruturaj Gaikwad turned out to be one of their best performers as he enjoyed a purple patch with the willow throughout the season. Gaikwad, who is a classy opener with textbook cricketing shots and brilliant technique, had a dream season as he finished as the highest run-getter in the league with an impressive 635 runs from just 16 matches. He became the youngest batter to take the Orange Cap and the first CSK player to win the Orange Cap and the league in the same year. Gaikwad's opening partner Faf du Plessis came close to pipping him in the race for the Orange Cap with a brilliant knock of 86 runs in the final but fell short by just three runs as he finished on the second spot with 633 runs from 16 matches in IPL 2021. Here is a look at the top five highest run-getters in IPL 2021: 1) Ruturaj Gaikwad (635 runs) One of the finds for Chennai Super Kings, Ruturaj Gaikwad continued from where he had left last season and delivered consistently as an opener. The youngster formed a formidable opening partnership with Faf du Plessis and scored runs one game after another. He finished the season with 635 runs from 16 matches with the help of one century and four half-centuries at a brilliant average of 45.35 and a strike rate of over 136. The 24-year-old became the youngest Orange Cap winner in IPL history. Also Read: No one can beat MS Dhoni's legacy in Team India and Chennai Super Kings: Virender Sehwag 2) Faf du Plessis (633 runs) The second CSK opener on the list, Faf du Plessis stood up in the absence of Shane Watson and led CSK's batting unit from the front. Du Plessis slammed a match-winning knock of 86 runs in the final against KKR and came close to winning the Orage Cap but ended up falling short by just three runs at the end. Du Plessis amassed 633 runs in 16 games at an average of over 45 and a strike rate close to 140 to finish 2nd on the list of highest run-getters in IPL 2021. 3) KL Rahul (626 runs) Punjab Kings captain KL Rahul was once again the lone warrior for his side in what was yet another disappointing season for the Punjab outfit. Rahul continued his remarkable consistency and piled on 626 runs in just 13 matches at a stunning average of 62.60. He slammed six half-centuries in 13 matches and finished the season as the third-highest run-getter. Had Punjab Kings made it to the playoffs, Rahul might have emerged as the leading run-getter in IPL 2021. Also Read: MS Dhoni's CSK claim 4th title: Complete list of IPL winners since 2008 4) Shikhar Dhawan (587 runs) One of the most consistent openers in the IPL over the years, Shikhar Dhawan once again enjoyed a brilliant campaign with the willow. The senior batter notched up 587 runs in 16 matches to help Delhi Capitals make it to the playoffs and finish on top of the table during the league stages. He averaged over 39 this season but his strike rate remained on the lower side at 124.62. 5) Glenn Maxwell (513 runs) Many had questioned RCB splurging out a whopping Rs 142.5 million on the Australian all-rounder at the player auction ahead of IPL 2021. However, Maxwell went on to have a tremendous season for RCB and slammed 513 runs in 15 matches for the Virat Kohli-led side. Maxwell proved to be RCB's best batter as he notched up six fifties and struck at an impressive 144.10. He finished as the fifth-highest run-getter of IPL 2021.

Ruturaj Gaikwad to KL Rahul: Top five highest run-getters of IPL 2021

IPL 2021 ended in a fitting manner on Friday evening (October 15), with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) meeting the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

The 14th edition of the cash-rich league has been very different from all the preceding seasons as it took place in two halves, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the 14th season&nbsp;lived up to expectations despite the BCCI facing plenty of issues to complete the marquee edition in 2021. The just-concluded season saw&nbsp;many uncapped players standing tall with the bat and ball whereas some known and big names also outperformed for their respective franchises.

While Harshal Patel ended with the Purple Cap, with as many as 32 wickets for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), CSK's Ruturaj Gaikwad&nbsp;earned the elusive Orange Cap after Dhoni &amp; Co. won their fourth championship, beating KKR by 27 runs in the finale.

Ruturaj&nbsp;ended with 636 runs at 45.35 along with a strike-rate of 136.26 following his 32 in the summit clash. His opening partner Faf du Plessis gave him a very tough fight for the cap, however, the 24-year-old youngster topped the run-scoring chart&nbsp;courtesy of a two-run lead.&nbsp;

In this way, Ruturaj has joined some elite names in the list for the Orange Cap winners. It includes some big names such as Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle, David Warner (winning it thrice), KL Rahul, etc. Here's the whole Orange Cap list after&nbsp;IPL 2021:&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-names-uncapped-indian-star-kkr-should-retain-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-421038">Virender Sehwag names uncapped Indian star KKR should retain ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Year</td>
			<td>Orange Cap winner</td>
			<td>Runs scored</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2008</td>
			<td>Shaun Marsh</td>
			<td>616</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2009</td>
			<td>Matthew Hayden</td>
			<td>572</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2010</td>
			<td>Sachin Tendulkar</td>
			<td>618</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2011</td>
			<td>Chris Gayle</td>
			<td>608</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2012</td>
			<td>Chris Gayle</td>
			<td>733</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2013</td>
			<td>Michael Hussey</td>
			<td>733</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2014</td>
			<td>Robin Uthappa</td>
			<td>660</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2015</td>
			<td>David Warner</td>
			<td>562</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2016</td>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>973</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2017</td>
			<td>David Warner</td>
			<td>641</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2018</td>
			<td>Kane Williamson</td>
			<td>735</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2019</td>
			<td>David Warner</td>
			<td>692</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2020</td>
			<td>KL Rahul</td>
			<td>670</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2021</td>
			<td>Ruturaj Gaikwad</td>
			<td>636</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-look-at-top-5-highest-and-lowest-totals-in-ipl-finals-as-csk-battle-kkr-for-elusive-trophy-420987">A look at top 5 highest and lowest totals in IPL finals as CSK battle KKR for elusive trophy</a>

Ruturaj's IPL 14 has been a breakthrough season. Returning with as many as four half-centuries and a hundred and taking on many world-class bowlers from the word go, without dropping much sweat, the CSK opener is now being touted as the next-big-thing in Indian cricket and is expected to be the future of the MS Dhoni-led franchise. Following such a season, many experts believe he will be retained by the Yellow Army ahead of the mega auction, later this year.

When he was almost confirmed to be the owner of the cap, Ruturaj told broadcasters at the halfway stage of the finale, "We did brilliantly to get to 192 by hitting some brilliant sixes. We need to bowl well and back it up with the fielding. I wanted him to hit that six (on Faf coming very close to&nbsp;surpassing him in the Orange Cap list)&nbsp;and add those six important runs."&nbsp;

For the unversed, Faf's 86 helped CSK post a competitive 192-3&nbsp;versus KKR in the season-finale. While the South African missed out on winning the elusive cap, by a whisker, his knock helped CSK defend the total by 27 runs.

IPL 2021 ended in a fitting manner on Friday evening (October 15), with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) meeting the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

IPL 2021 ended in a fitting manner on Friday evening (October 15), with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) meeting the Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. The 14th edition of the cash-rich league has been very different from all the preceding seasons as it took place in two halves, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the 14th season lived up to expectations despite the BCCI facing plenty of issues to complete the marquee edition in 2021. The just-concluded season saw many uncapped players standing tall with the bat and ball whereas some known and big names also outperformed for their respective franchises. While Harshal Patel ended with the Purple Cap, with as many as 32 wickets for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), CSK's Ruturaj Gaikwad earned the elusive Orange Cap after Dhoni & Co. won their fourth championship, beating KKR by 27 runs in the finale. Ruturaj ended with 636 runs at 45.35 along with a strike-rate of 136.26 following his 32 in the summit clash. His opening partner Faf du Plessis gave him a very tough fight for the cap, however, the 24-year-old youngster topped the run-scoring chart courtesy of a two-run lead. In this way, Ruturaj has joined some elite names in the list for the Orange Cap winners. It includes some big names such as Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle, David Warner (winning it thrice), KL Rahul, etc. Here's the whole Orange Cap list after IPL 2021: ALSO READ | Virender Sehwag names uncapped Indian star KKR should retain ahead of IPL mega auction Year Orange Cap winner Runs scored 2008 Shaun Marsh 616 2009 Matthew Hayden 572 2010 Sachin Tendulkar 618 2011 Chris Gayle 608 2012 Chris Gayle 733 2013 Michael Hussey 733 2014 Robin Uthappa 660 2015 David Warner 562 2016 Virat Kohli 973 2017 David Warner 641 2018 Kane Williamson 735 2019 David Warner 692 2020 KL Rahul 670 2021 Ruturaj Gaikwad 636 ALSO READ | A look at top 5 highest and lowest totals in IPL finals as CSK battle KKR for elusive trophy Ruturaj's IPL 14 has been a breakthrough season. Returning with as many as four half-centuries and a hundred and taking on many world-class bowlers from the word go, without dropping much sweat, the CSK opener is now being touted as the next-big-thing in Indian cricket and is expected to be the future of the MS Dhoni-led franchise. Following such a season, many experts believe he will be retained by the Yellow Army ahead of the mega auction, later this year. When he was almost confirmed to be the owner of the cap, Ruturaj told broadcasters at the halfway stage of the finale, "We did brilliantly to get to 192 by hitting some brilliant sixes. We need to bowl well and back it up with the fielding. I wanted him to hit that six (on Faf coming very close to surpassing him in the Orange Cap list) and add those six important runs." For the unversed, Faf's 86 helped CSK post a competitive 192-3 versus KKR in the season-finale. While the South African missed out on winning the elusive cap, by a whisker, his knock helped CSK defend the total by 27 runs.

From Virat Kohli to Ruturaj Gaikwad: Orange Cap winners in IPL history

What a night for Mahendra Singh Dhoni and what a night for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) team as they won the fourth Indian Pemier League title after defeating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 27 runs in the final of the 14th edition of IPL in Dubai on Friday (October 15).

What a night for Mahendra Singh Dhoni and what a night for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) team as they won the fourth Indian Pemier League title after defeating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 27 runs in the final of the 14th edition of IPL in Dubai on Friday (October 15). In the first innings, Chennai amassed 192-3 with opener Faf du Plessis anchoring their innings with 86 off 59 balls after putting into bat. Ruturaj Gaikwad made 32, while Robin Uthappa (31) and Moeen Ali (37 not out) chipped in with useful cameos. Kolkata, led by England white-ball captain Eoin Morgan, got off to a flying start with a 91-run stand between openers Shubman Gill and Venkatesh Iyer before wheels came off their innings and they finished on 165-9. Morgan made four and only four Kolkata batsmen managed double digit scores. For CSK, Shardul Thakur returned 3-38, while Ravindra Jadeja claimed 2-37 and took two stunning catches to hurt Kolkata. ALSO READ | From Virat Kohli to Ruturaj Gaikwad: Orange Cap winners in IPL history Fantastic FOUR! 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 The @msdhoni-led @ChennaiIPL beat #KKR by 27 runs in the #VIVOIPL #Final & clinch their 4⃣th IPL title. 👏 👏 #CSKvKKR A round of applause for @KKRiders, who are the runners-up of the season. 👍 👍 Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/JOEYUSwYSt pic.twitter.com/PQGanwi3H3 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 15, 2021 × As the IPL frenzy comes to an end, here are all the awards, that players have won for their stunning performances throughout the season. Player of the Match: CSK's Faf du Plessis won player of the IPL 2021 final match against KKR for his stunning knock of 86 runs off 59 balls. After winning the award, du Plessis said, "That was a great day. 100th IPL game, special day. I loved my time here at CSK, almost 10 years. No 4 in the IPL trophy cabinet is really good." Emerging Player: Ruturaj Gaikwad. In all the 16 matches he played, Gaikwad scored 635 runs and emerged as a vital cog for his team. ALSO READ | CSK veterans MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Faf du Plessis play milestone game in IPL 2021 final Fair Play Award: Rajasthan Royals Perfect Catch Of The Season: Ravi Bishnoi of Punjab Kings won the award of Perfect Catch Of The Season for taking a stunning catch of KKR's Sunil Narine in the Match 21 of the season, when the tournament was underway in India. He pulled off the catch with a full-length dive at deep mid-wicket. Super Striker of the Season: Delhi Capital's Shimron Hetmyer won striker of the season award for his batting strike rate of 168.05 as he scored 242 in 14 matches he played. Game Changer of the Season: Harshal Patel Maximum Sixes: PBKS skipper KL Rahul struck maximum sixes in the season that is 30. Power player of the season: Venkatesh Iyer Purple cap: RCB's Harshal Patel won the Purple cap for taking 32 wickets in the season in 15 games he played. It is also joint highest ever in IPL with CSK's Dwayne Bravo. His spells included one 5-wicket haul, one 4-wicket haul. Orange cap: - Ruturaj Gaikwad won the orange cap. In the IPL 2021 season, the 24-year-old scored 635 runs in 16 games (one hundred, four fifties). Most valuable player of the season: Harshal Patel

From perfect catch to highest runs: List of all the awards in IPL 2021

The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion with only two games left. There have been various match-winners for the eight franchises in the ongoing season whereas several underrated and uncapped players have also made a mark, in the presence of some big-ticket players.&nbsp;

On the other hand, many marquee players also returned back to form in the 14th edition of the tournament, with the second and final leg being held in the UAE. From KL Rahul, Glenn Maxwell, Jasprit Bumrah, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Faf du Plessis, Ruturaj Gaikwad, etc., many players have been top-performers and super consistent this season.&nbsp;

Thus, the former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir named his player of the tournament in IPL 14. Gambhir picked Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB)&nbsp;pacer Harshal Patel as his player of the ongoing edition, who ended the season with as many as 32 wickets.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harshal-patel-and-2-other-ipl-stars-likely-to-join-indian-team-to-support-their-training-for-t20-wc-report-420152">Harshal Patel and 2 other IPL stars likely to join Indian team to support their training for T20 WC - Report</a>

In a chat with&nbsp;ESPNcricinfo, Gambhir said,&nbsp;"Look at Harshal Patel today; he bowled the fifth over which was probably the toughest after Garton went for 15-20 in the fourth over... He bowled the fifth over, and got the wicket. He bowled in the death, and got wickets. So he's done probably the toughest thing that RCB were expecting him to do, and he came out with flying colours. Irrespective of how many runs and wickets players will get, he's the player of the tournament for me already."

"It's unfortunate. He deserved to play in the final. He's been the standout performer for them... The way he has carried on the burden of death bowling for RCB, which has been a concern for so many years... he's literally handled that pressure single-handedly. Hats off to him, and he's had a fabulous, fabulous IPL," the left-hander further stated.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rcb-star-harshal-patel-equals-dwayne-bravos-all-time-record-with-32-scalps-during-eliminator-vs-kkr-420088">IPL 2021: RCB star Harshal Patel equals Dwayne Bravo’s all-time record with 32 scalps during Eliminator vs KKR</a>

For the unversed, Harshal-starrer RCB bowed out of the current edition after losing the Eliminator to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by four wickets, with two balls to spare on Monday (October 11). The 30-year-old equalled Dwayne Bravo's record of most wickets in a single season (32) before Bengaluru's run came to an end on Monday.

The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion with only two games left. There have been various match-winners for the eight franchises in the ongoing season whereas several underrated and uncapped players have also made a mark, in the presence of some big-ticket players.

The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion with only two games left. There have been various match-winners for the eight franchises in the ongoing season whereas several underrated and uncapped players have also made a mark, in the presence of some big-ticket players. On the other hand, many marquee players also returned back to form in the 14th edition of the tournament, with the second and final leg being held in the UAE. From KL Rahul, Glenn Maxwell, Jasprit Bumrah, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Faf du Plessis, Ruturaj Gaikwad, etc., many players have been top-performers and super consistent this season. Thus, the former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Gautam Gambhir named his player of the tournament in IPL 14. Gambhir picked Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) pacer Harshal Patel as his player of the ongoing edition, who ended the season with as many as 32 wickets. ALSO READ | Harshal Patel and 2 other IPL stars likely to join Indian team to support their training for T20 WC - Report In a chat with ESPNcricinfo, Gambhir said, "Look at Harshal Patel today; he bowled the fifth over which was probably the toughest after Garton went for 15-20 in the fourth over... He bowled the fifth over, and got the wicket. He bowled in the death, and got wickets. So he's done probably the toughest thing that RCB were expecting him to do, and he came out with flying colours. Irrespective of how many runs and wickets players will get, he's the player of the tournament for me already." "It's unfortunate. He deserved to play in the final. He's been the standout performer for them... The way he has carried on the burden of death bowling for RCB, which has been a concern for so many years... he's literally handled that pressure single-handedly. Hats off to him, and he's had a fabulous, fabulous IPL," the left-hander further stated. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: RCB star Harshal Patel equals Dwayne Bravo’s all-time record with 32 scalps during Eliminator vs KKR For the unversed, Harshal-starrer RCB bowed out of the current edition after losing the Eliminator to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by four wickets, with two balls to spare on Monday (October 11). The 30-year-old equalled Dwayne Bravo's record of most wickets in a single season (32) before Bengaluru's run came to an end on Monday.

Not Glenn Maxwell or KL Rahul: Gautam Gambhir names his player of the tournament for IPL 2021

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) locked horns with the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2021 edition on Sunday (October 11), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Before this, CSK had met the Pant-led franchise twice in the season; losing the clash on both occasions.

Thus, CSK had their back against the wall heading into the Qualifier 1. In addition, they had lost three back-to-back games ahead of the playoffs. Nonetheless, the Yellow Army rose to the occasion and displayed their experience to beat DC by 4 wickets in the final over and progress to their ninth IPL final.&nbsp;

Opting to bowl first, Dhoni &amp; Co. restricted Delhi for 172-5, riding on Prithvi Shaw's 60, Rishabh Pant's 51 not out and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70 and Robin Uthappa's 42-ball 63 kept them in the hunt, being well-placed at 113-1. While they did struggle from thereon, being reduced to 119-4, and needed 19 off 9 balls, Dhoni's cameo (18* off 6 balls) propelled CSK to a memorable four-wicket win, with two balls to spare.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ms-dhoni-retires-he-will-be-remembered-as-one-of-the-greatest-finishers-ever-ricky-ponting-419942">When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting</a>

After the riveting clash, there was an air of excitement and happiness among the CSK camp as the Yellow Army received a grand welcome by the Whistle Podu fans, at the team hotel. Here's the video of CSK's celebrations:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-gautam-gambhir-decodes-reason-for-rishabh-pant-led-dcs-qualifier-1-loss-to-csk-419966">IPL 2021: Gautam Gambhir decodes reason for Rishabh Pant-led DC's Qualifier 1 loss to CSK</a>

After the match, Dhoni stated at the post-match presentation, "It's the full team (effort). It was tough when we didn't qualify last time. Emotions were quite high. Forget what has happened till now, we wanted to make the most of the 3-4 games left towards the end. A lot of our batters made the most of that period which is why I feel we have come back strongly this year. Credit goes to the support staff and everyone in the team. Without their character you can't really comeback like this."

CSK will now gear up for the summit clash, to be held on October 15 at the same venue in Dubai.

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) locked horns with the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2021 edition on Sunday (October 11), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) locked horns with the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2021 edition on Sunday (October 11), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Before this, CSK had met the Pant-led franchise twice in the season; losing the clash on both occasions. Thus, CSK had their back against the wall heading into the Qualifier 1. In addition, they had lost three back-to-back games ahead of the playoffs. Nonetheless, the Yellow Army rose to the occasion and displayed their experience to beat DC by 4 wickets in the final over and progress to their ninth IPL final. Opting to bowl first, Dhoni & Co. restricted Delhi for 172-5, riding on Prithvi Shaw's 60, Rishabh Pant's 51 not out and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70 and Robin Uthappa's 42-ball 63 kept them in the hunt, being well-placed at 113-1. While they did struggle from thereon, being reduced to 119-4, and needed 19 off 9 balls, Dhoni's cameo (18* off 6 balls) propelled CSK to a memorable four-wicket win, with two balls to spare. ALSO READ | When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting After the riveting clash, there was an air of excitement and happiness among the CSK camp as the Yellow Army received a grand welcome by the Whistle Podu fans, at the team hotel. Here's the video of CSK's celebrations: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chennai Super Kings (@chennaiipl) × ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Gautam Gambhir decodes reason for Rishabh Pant-led DC's Qualifier 1 loss to CSK After the match, Dhoni stated at the post-match presentation, "It's the full team (effort). It was tough when we didn't qualify last time. Emotions were quite high. Forget what has happened till now, we wanted to make the most of the 3-4 games left towards the end. A lot of our batters made the most of that period which is why I feel we have come back strongly this year. Credit goes to the support staff and everyone in the team. Without their character you can't really comeback like this." CSK will now gear up for the summit clash, to be held on October 15 at the same venue in Dubai.

CSK receive Yel-lovely welcome at team hotel after thrilling win over DC to reach 9th IPL final - WATCH

MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

After opting to bowl first, CSK restricted DC to a competitive 172-5 as the last year's runners-up rode on half-centuries from Prithvi Shaw (60), Rishabh Pant's 51* and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, CSK were in the hunt courtesy fifties from Robin Uthappa (42-ball 63) and in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70. However, they were reduced to 119-4, from 113-1, as the match got very close and intense in the end overs.&nbsp;

An out-of-form Dhoni walked out to bat at No. 7, ahead of finisher Ravindra Jadeja, and rolled back the clock with his power-hitting to take CSK to their ninth final courtesy his 6-ball 18*. As soon as Dhoni hit the winning runs in the final over, off Tom Curran, the crowd went berserk seeing MSD return back to form. On the other hand, Dhoni's wife Sakshi was emotional and hugged her daughter Ziva, although&nbsp;not visible in the video, seeing her husband's memorable finish.&nbsp;

Here's the video:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhoni-gives-autographed-ball-to-a-teary-eyed-young-girl-after-csks-qualifier-1-win-vs-dc-watch-419817">IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch</a>

After the match and his brilliant performance, Dhoni told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball."

CSK will now gear up for the IPL 2021 final on Friday (October 15) at the same venue.

MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After opting to bowl first, CSK restricted DC to a competitive 172-5 as the last year's runners-up rode on half-centuries from Prithvi Shaw (60), Rishabh Pant's 51* and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, CSK were in the hunt courtesy fifties from Robin Uthappa (42-ball 63) and in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70. However, they were reduced to 119-4, from 113-1, as the match got very close and intense in the end overs. An out-of-form Dhoni walked out to bat at No. 7, ahead of finisher Ravindra Jadeja, and rolled back the clock with his power-hitting to take CSK to their ninth final courtesy his 6-ball 18*. As soon as Dhoni hit the winning runs in the final over, off Tom Curran, the crowd went berserk seeing MSD return back to form. On the other hand, Dhoni's wife Sakshi was emotional and hugged her daughter Ziva, although not visible in the video, seeing her husband's memorable finish. Here's the video: pic.twitter.com/59dhDykYOa — pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) October 10, 2021 × ALSO READ | IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch After the match and his brilliant performance, Dhoni told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball." CSK will now gear up for the IPL 2021 final on Friday (October 15) at the same venue.

WATCH: Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has witnessed some of the young guns outshine the old warhorses this year. One of the best T20 leagues across the globe, the IPL has over the years provided a much-needed platform for the Indian youngsters to shine and prove their worth.&nbsp;

India's domestic cricket structure is a formidable force in itself with thousands of players plying their trade across states, districts and other local sides in order to realise their dreams of playing for India one day. However, the demanding domestic structure had often been criticised for not identifying and nurturing proper talent at the grassroots level.

Thanks to the IPL, the gap between the national team and domestic cricket has been bridged smoothly as youngsters get a chance to rub&nbsp;shoulders with the best in the world in the cash-rich league. There have been a plethora of success stories in IPL that have gone on to represent India at the highest stage later in their careers.

With a number of young talents emerging every season, the ongoing edition of IPL has been no different. A number of youngsters have grabbed the opportunities coming their way with both hands and have shone for their respective teams. Here we take a look at five such Indian young guns who have taken IPL 2021 by a storm with their brilliant performances.

1) Ruturaj Gaikwad

<img alt="Ruturaj Gaikwad | Photo - PTI |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f43bdbcd-3529-4fe9-9c71-dce1529997aa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ruturaj%20PTI.png" />

The young right-hand batsman has been a revelation for MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. Gaikwad had proved his mettle last season by scoring runs consistently in the handful of opportunities coming his way in the UAE. However, he set the ball rolling from the word go in IPL 2021 and has been the second-highest run-getter for his side in the ongoing season.

Known for his terrific technique and ability to churn out runs consistently, Gaikwad seems to be a brilliant prospect for both CSK and team India in the future. The stylish batsman has so far amassed 533 runs in 14 matches this season at an excellent average of 44.41 and a strike rate of 137.01.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-hardik-pandya-virender-sehwag-names-3-players-mumbai-indians-should-retain-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-419581">No Hardik Pandya! Virender Sehwag names 3 players Mumbai Indians should retain ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

2) Venkatesh Iyer

<img alt="Venkatesh Iyer | Photo - IANS |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="68cace55-e35a-4256-9859-c7fbe9c60d17" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Venkatesh%20Iyer%20IANS.png" />

Kolkata Knight Riders were among the least favourites to qualify for the playoffs this season after a disastrous start to their campaign in India. KKR managed just two wins in their first seven games of the season in the first leg and headed to UAE with their task cut out. They needed to win at least five of their remaining seven matches and they did exactly that to make it to the playoffs.

Venkatesh Iyer is one of the youngsters who has played an instrumental role in helping KKR secure a spot in the playoffs in IPL 2021. Making his debut for KKR against RCB, Iyer announced himself on the big stage with a cracking 41 off just 27 balls and has not looked back since. Known for his big-hitting prowess, Iyer has notched up 239 runs in just 7 games at a strike rate close to 130 and has also proven to be a handy bowler. The batting all-rounder has made heads turn with his performances and looks one for the future.

3) Avesh Khan&nbsp;

<img alt="Avesh Khan | Photo - IPL |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8dc6f2a6-a241-4111-9aef-879d0133f266" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Avesh%20Khan%20IPL.png" />

24-year-old Avesh Khan has outshone the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje to emerge as Delhi Capitals' highest wicket-taker in the ongoing IPL 2021. One of the most promising fast-bowling prospects that India have at present, Avesh has impressed with his pace, accuracy and consistency for DC.

The right-arm fast bowler has enjoyed a stellar season so far with the ball and has already picked up 22 wickets in just 14 matches at an economy of 7.45. He has been captain Rishabh Pant's go-to-man at DC this season despite the likes of Rabada and Nortje in the team's ranks. Avesh was one of the net bowlers for India on their tour of England earlier this year and looks destined for bigger things in the future.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-analyst-captains-kkr-gautam-gambhir-fires-shots-at-eoin-morgan-ahead-of-ipl-2021-playoffs-419593">Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs</a>

4) Arshdeep Singh

<img alt="Arshdeep Singh | Photo - IPL |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6fd75ec-4ffd-4b21-9eeb-880f0eca5d75" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Arshdeep.png" />

Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh enjoyed a memorable campaign in IPL 2021 and could be soon knocking at the selectors' doors for entry in Team India's squad in limited-overs. Arshdeep was one of the best&nbsp;bowlers for Punjab in the IPL last year and continued his brilliant run in the 2021 edition of the tournament as well.

Arshdeep picked up 18 wickets in just 12 matches in the league stages of IPL 2021 while bowling at an economy of just over 8. He formed a formidable partnership with senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami for PBKS and delivered the goods for captain KL Rahul in several pressure situations. The 22-year-old is certainly one to watch out for in the future.

5) Ravi Bishnoi

<img alt="Ravi Bishnoi | Photo - IPL |" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3f579a96-56e5-4acb-96b6-a105031f82a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ravi%20Bishnoi%20IPL.png" />

With the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav falling out of favour in&nbsp;the Indian team, the selectors are actively on the lookout for&nbsp;young spinners. Ravi Bishnoi, the former India U-19 star has caught the eye of many with his impressive performances for Punjab Kings in the IPL. A fearless customer, Bishnoi is known for his ability to trouble the best of batsmen.

Bishnoi can be fast-tracked into the Indian side owing to his impeccable skills and temperament. The young leg-spinner did not get a lot of chances in the India leg of IPL 2021 but redeemed himself in the UAE leg of the season to finish with 12 wickets from 9 matches.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has witnessed some of the young guns outshine the old warhorses this year. One of the best T20 leagues across the globe, the IPL has over the years provided a much-needed platform for the Indian youngsters to shine and prove their worth.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has witnessed some of the young guns outshine the old warhorses this year. One of the best T20 leagues across the globe, the IPL has over the years provided a much-needed platform for the Indian youngsters to shine and prove their worth. India's domestic cricket structure is a formidable force in itself with thousands of players plying their trade across states, districts and other local sides in order to realise their dreams of playing for India one day. However, the demanding domestic structure had often been criticised for not identifying and nurturing proper talent at the grassroots level. Thanks to the IPL, the gap between the national team and domestic cricket has been bridged smoothly as youngsters get a chance to rub shoulders with the best in the world in the cash-rich league. There have been a plethora of success stories in IPL that have gone on to represent India at the highest stage later in their careers. With a number of young talents emerging every season, the ongoing edition of IPL has been no different. A number of youngsters have grabbed the opportunities coming their way with both hands and have shone for their respective teams. Here we take a look at five such Indian young guns who have taken IPL 2021 by a storm with their brilliant performances. 1) Ruturaj Gaikwad The young right-hand batsman has been a revelation for MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. Gaikwad had proved his mettle last season by scoring runs consistently in the handful of opportunities coming his way in the UAE. However, he set the ball rolling from the word go in IPL 2021 and has been the second-highest run-getter for his side in the ongoing season. Known for his terrific technique and ability to churn out runs consistently, Gaikwad seems to be a brilliant prospect for both CSK and team India in the future. The stylish batsman has so far amassed 533 runs in 14 matches this season at an excellent average of 44.41 and a strike rate of 137.01. Also Read: No Hardik Pandya! Virender Sehwag names 3 players Mumbai Indians should retain ahead of IPL mega auction 2) Venkatesh Iyer Kolkata Knight Riders were among the least favourites to qualify for the playoffs this season after a disastrous start to their campaign in India. KKR managed just two wins in their first seven games of the season in the first leg and headed to UAE with their task cut out. They needed to win at least five of their remaining seven matches and they did exactly that to make it to the playoffs. Venkatesh Iyer is one of the youngsters who has played an instrumental role in helping KKR secure a spot in the playoffs in IPL 2021. Making his debut for KKR against RCB, Iyer announced himself on the big stage with a cracking 41 off just 27 balls and has not looked back since. Known for his big-hitting prowess, Iyer has notched up 239 runs in just 7 games at a strike rate close to 130 and has also proven to be a handy bowler. The batting all-rounder has made heads turn with his performances and looks one for the future. 3) Avesh Khan 24-year-old Avesh Khan has outshone the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje to emerge as Delhi Capitals' highest wicket-taker in the ongoing IPL 2021. One of the most promising fast-bowling prospects that India have at present, Avesh has impressed with his pace, accuracy and consistency for DC. The right-arm fast bowler has enjoyed a stellar season so far with the ball and has already picked up 22 wickets in just 14 matches at an economy of 7.45. He has been captain Rishabh Pant's go-to-man at DC this season despite the likes of Rabada and Nortje in the team's ranks. Avesh was one of the net bowlers for India on their tour of England earlier this year and looks destined for bigger things in the future. Also Read: Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs 4) Arshdeep Singh Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh enjoyed a memorable campaign in IPL 2021 and could be soon knocking at the selectors' doors for entry in Team India's squad in limited-overs. Arshdeep was one of the best bowlers for Punjab in the IPL last year and continued his brilliant run in the 2021 edition of the tournament as well. Arshdeep picked up 18 wickets in just 12 matches in the league stages of IPL 2021 while bowling at an economy of just over 8. He formed a formidable partnership with senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami for PBKS and delivered the goods for captain KL Rahul in several pressure situations. The 22-year-old is certainly one to watch out for in the future. 5) Ravi Bishnoi With the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav falling out of favour in the Indian team, the selectors are actively on the lookout for young spinners. Ravi Bishnoi, the former India U-19 star has caught the eye of many with his impressive performances for Punjab Kings in the IPL. A fearless customer, Bishnoi is known for his ability to trouble the best of batsmen. Bishnoi can be fast-tracked into the Indian side owing to his impeccable skills and temperament. The young leg-spinner did not get a lot of chances in the India leg of IPL 2021 but redeemed himself in the UAE leg of the season to finish with 12 wickets from 9 matches.

Future superstars! Five Indian youngsters who took IPL 2021 by a storm with their performances

IPL 2021: From Ruturaj Gaikwad to Avesh Khan! 5 most impressive performances by youngsters

Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson was upbeat as his side managed to keep the playoffs hope alive after an outstanding performance against the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rajasthan-royals-beat-chennai-super-kings-by-seven-wickets-417756">defeating them by seven wickets</a> in their Indian Premier League 2021 match at Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday (October 2).&nbsp;

Samson praised the team, especially the openers as RR chased down an imposing target of 190, he said, "We just wanted to back ourselves. I am happy I guessed it (pitch getting better in the second innings) right. They (openers) have been giving good starts, they almost finished off the game in the powerplay. They were going for the kill."

However, he didn't shy away from praising CSK opening batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad. Ruturaj was on 95 when he got the strike on the fifth ball of the last over. The opening batsman hammered a massive six off the last ball to reach his ton.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rajasthan-royals-thrash-csk-to-keep-playoffs-hope-alive-key-highlights-of-the-sensational-clash-in-pics-417775">Rajasthan Royals thrash CSK to keep playoffs hope alive: Key highlights of the sensational clash in pics</a>

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Moment hai, moment..💗😁 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaBol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaBol</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/yashasvi_j?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yashasvi_j</a> <a href="https://t.co/jxDiIVwqFL">pic.twitter.com/jxDiIVwqFL</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1444392722891116544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Glad we entertained the Abu Dhabi crowd, <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>. 🤝 
 
See you again this season, hopefully. 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaBol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaBol</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalsFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalsFamily</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/74KE8MHceg">pic.twitter.com/74KE8MHceg</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1444365810294616068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-rishabhs-delhi-fly-high-rohits-mumbai-falter-a-look-at-dc-vs-mi-clash-in-pics-417750">IPL 2021: Rishabh's Delhi fly high, Rohit's Mumbai falter - A look at DC vs MI clash in pics</a>

"Unbelievable batting by Gaikwad, we're afraid of a batsman like him. Really a lot of respect to him. We aren't thinking too far ahead, one match at a time," said Samson during the post-match presentation.&nbsp;

opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (50) and Shivam Dube (64 not out off 42 balls) hit half-centuries as RR reached 190 for 3 in 17.3 overs to win the match.

"We are aware of the abilities of our youngsters, that's why we get disappointed when we lose matches. Our openers finished off the game in the PP, Jaiswal was superb, hopefully, he'll make it big," said Samson.

"We have been discussing Shivam in the last 2-3 games. Mahipal did a good job in the first few games, but we thought today could be Shivam's game," he added.&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad wowed the fans with his terrific batting in his side's clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2021 on Saturday. Gaikwad notched up his maiden IPL century with a last-ball six against RR and helped CSK post a strong total of 189/4 on the board in 20 overs. It was an amazing display from the stylish right-hander, who has been enjoying a stellar run this season.

West Indies legend Brian Lara was left in awe of Gaikwad, lavishing praise on him for his complete batsmanship in his tremendous knock of unbeaten 101 off 60 balls against RR at the Sheikh Zayed Satdium in Abu Dhabi. Lara said Gaikwad's knock proved one can score big runs in T20 cricket with orthodox shots as well.

Gaikwad got off to a slow start in the game but changed gears swiftly after settling down in the middle. He needed 5 runs off the final two balls in the last over to reach his maiden IPL century. The right-hander went on to miss the penultimate delivery of the 20th over before smashing as six off the last ball from Mustafizur Rahman to finish with 101 not out off just 60 balls. His knock was laced with nine fours and five sixes.

"Yeah, he could have been 135 if he had got more strike in the end overs. But it was a complete show of batsmanship. That's what I like about him, seeing how he put that innings together, how he surged in the second half of the innings. He was just tremendous to watch," Lara said on Star Sports as he lavished praise on Gaikwad.

The West Indies legend further added that he would now put Gaikwad in the same category as Indian star and Punjab Kings captain KL Rahul, who is also known for his elegant style of batting.&nbsp;

"He shows that you can play good cricket shots and still score big runs. And that's what I am proud of as a batsman. It was just remarkable and unbelievable. I will put him now in the KL Rahul category," Lara added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruturaj-gaikwad-lights-up-abu-dhabi-slams-maiden-ipl-century-with-last-ball-six-against-rr-417733">Ruturaj Gaikwad lights up Abu Dhabi, slams maiden IPL century with last-ball six against RR</a>

Gaikwad's terrific knock, however, went in vain as CSK suffered a seven-wicket defeat in the game. Despite posting a huge total of 189 runs on the board, CSK bowlers couldn't defend the target and were mauled by the RR batsmen. Openers Evin Lewis (27 off 12) and Yashasvi Jasiwal (50 off 21) got RR off to a brilliant start before Shivam Dube's unbeaten 64 off 42 balls helped them chase down 190 runs with 15 balls to spare.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad wowed the fans with his terrific batting in his side's clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2021 on Saturday.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad wowed the fans with his terrific batting in his side's clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2021 on Saturday. Gaikwad notched up his maiden IPL century with a last-ball six against RR and helped CSK post a strong total of 189/4 on the board in 20 overs. It was an amazing display from the stylish right-hander, who has been enjoying a stellar run this season. West Indies legend Brian Lara was left in awe of Gaikwad, lavishing praise on him for his complete batsmanship in his tremendous knock of unbeaten 101 off 60 balls against RR at the Sheikh Zayed Satdium in Abu Dhabi. Lara said Gaikwad's knock proved one can score big runs in T20 cricket with orthodox shots as well. Gaikwad got off to a slow start in the game but changed gears swiftly after settling down in the middle. He needed 5 runs off the final two balls in the last over to reach his maiden IPL century. The right-hander went on to miss the penultimate delivery of the 20th over before smashing as six off the last ball from Mustafizur Rahman to finish with 101 not out off just 60 balls. His knock was laced with nine fours and five sixes. "Yeah, he could have been 135 if he had got more strike in the end overs. But it was a complete show of batsmanship. That's what I like about him, seeing how he put that innings together, how he surged in the second half of the innings. He was just tremendous to watch," Lara said on Star Sports as he lavished praise on Gaikwad. The West Indies legend further added that he would now put Gaikwad in the same category as Indian star and Punjab Kings captain KL Rahul, who is also known for his elegant style of batting. "He shows that you can play good cricket shots and still score big runs. And that's what I am proud of as a batsman. It was just remarkable and unbelievable. I will put him now in the KL Rahul category," Lara added. Also Read: Ruturaj Gaikwad lights up Abu Dhabi, slams maiden IPL century with last-ball six against RR Gaikwad's terrific knock, however, went in vain as CSK suffered a seven-wicket defeat in the game. Despite posting a huge total of 189 runs on the board, CSK bowlers couldn't defend the target and were mauled by the RR batsmen. Openers Evin Lewis (27 off 12) and Yashasvi Jasiwal (50 off 21) got RR off to a brilliant start before Shivam Dube's unbeaten 64 off 42 balls helped them chase down 190 runs with 15 balls to spare.

Ruturaj Gaikwad is in KL Rahul category: Brian Lara hails CSK opener after magnificent ton against Rajasthan Royals

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

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

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

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

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad notched up his maiden century in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Gaikwad achieved the feat in his side's clash against Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR). The elegant right-hander slammed a stunning unbeaten 101 off 60 balls and brought up his hundred with a last-ball six against RR pacer Mustafizur Rahman.

The 24-year-old became the youngest centurion for CSK in the history of the Indian Premier League. The Indian youngster has been in terrific form so far this season and continued his purple patch against RR on Saturday.

He added 47 runs for the first wicket with his opening partner Faf du Plessis, who was dismissed after scoring 25 off 19 balls as the duo got CSK off to a slow and cautious start. Suresh Raina once again failed to make an impact and was sent back for 3 off 5 balls before Moeen Ali (21) combined with Gaikwad to add 57 runs for the third wicket.

Gaikwad changed gears after Ali's dismissal and took the RR bowlers to the cleaners enroute to his stunning knock. He needed 5 runs to reach the triple-figure mark in the final over with Ravindra Jadeja on strike. Jadeja got 15 runs off the first three balls, including a wide&nbsp;before taking a single to bring Gaikwad back on strike.

With five runs needed off the final two deliveries, it seemed Gaikwad might miss out on a well-deserved hundred as he completely missed the fifth ball trying to pull it away. However, the CSK opener capitalised on the final delivery and pummelled it away for a six to finish on 101 off 60 balls, laced with five sixes and nine fours.

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🎥 That moment when <a href="https://twitter.com/Ruutu1331?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ruutu1331</a> completed his maiden <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> 💯! 💛 💛 
 
TAKE. A. BOW! 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> 
 
Scorecard 👉 <a href="https://t.co/jo6AKQBhuK">https://t.co/jo6AKQBhuK</a> <a href="https://t.co/nRS830RvK8">pic.twitter.com/nRS830RvK8</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1444333456872263684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-csk-great-ms-dhoni-completes-200-matches-as-captain-in-ipl-a-look-at-his-staggering-numbers-417696">In pics: CSK great MS Dhoni completes 200 matches as captain in IPL - A look at his staggering numbers</a>

Gaikwad added an unbeaten 55 runs for the fifth wicket Jadeja, who slammed a quickfire 32 off just 15 balls with the help of four fours and a solitary six. The duo powered CSK to a huge total of 189 runs on a slow surface in Abu Dhabi.

CSK have already qualified for the playoff and will be looking to cement their spot on the top of the points table with a win against Rajasthan Royals. MS Dhoni &amp; Co. are unbeaten so far in the UAE leg of the season.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad notched up his maiden century in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad notched up his maiden century in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Gaikwad achieved the feat in his side's clash against Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR). The elegant right-hander slammed a stunning unbeaten 101 off 60 balls and brought up his hundred with a last-ball six against RR pacer Mustafizur Rahman. The 24-year-old became the youngest centurion for CSK in the history of the Indian Premier League. The Indian youngster has been in terrific form so far this season and continued his purple patch against RR on Saturday. He added 47 runs for the first wicket with his opening partner Faf du Plessis, who was dismissed after scoring 25 off 19 balls as the duo got CSK off to a slow and cautious start. Suresh Raina once again failed to make an impact and was sent back for 3 off 5 balls before Moeen Ali (21) combined with Gaikwad to add 57 runs for the third wicket. Gaikwad changed gears after Ali's dismissal and took the RR bowlers to the cleaners enroute to his stunning knock. He needed 5 runs to reach the triple-figure mark in the final over with Ravindra Jadeja on strike. Jadeja got 15 runs off the first three balls, including a wide before taking a single to bring Gaikwad back on strike. With five runs needed off the final two deliveries, it seemed Gaikwad might miss out on a well-deserved hundred as he completely missed the fifth ball trying to pull it away. However, the CSK opener capitalised on the final delivery and pummelled it away for a six to finish on 101 off 60 balls, laced with five sixes and nine fours. 🎥 That moment when @Ruutu1331 completed his maiden #VIVOIPL 💯! 💛 💛 TAKE. A. BOW! 🙌#VIVOIPL | #RRvCSK | @ChennaiIPL Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/jo6AKQBhuK pic.twitter.com/nRS830RvK8 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 2, 2021 × In pics: CSK great MS Dhoni completes 200 matches as captain in IPL - A look at his staggering numbers Gaikwad added an unbeaten 55 runs for the fifth wicket Jadeja, who slammed a quickfire 32 off just 15 balls with the help of four fours and a solitary six. The duo powered CSK to a huge total of 189 runs on a slow surface in Abu Dhabi. CSK have already qualified for the playoff and will be looking to cement their spot on the top of the points table with a win against Rajasthan Royals. MS Dhoni & Co. are unbeaten so far in the UAE leg of the season.

Ruturaj Gaikwad lights up Abu Dhabi, slams maiden IPL century with last-ball six against RR

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batsman Robin Uthappa has lauded young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad for his stellar performances in the ongoing season of IPL 2021. Uthappa feels CSK are lucky to have an incredibly talented youngster like Gaikwad in their ranks and compared his calm demeanour to that of captain MS Dhoni.

Dhoni, who is famously known as captain cool, is one of the most successful captains in the history of IPL and is known for his calm and composed attitude. The CSK skipper has already drawn curtains on his international career but continues to lead the three-time champions in IPL. Uthappa said Gaikwad's demeanour is much like that of his captain.

"I think the character showed from Rutu (Ruturaj Gaikwad), I think is unbelievable. I think he is an incredible talent that we (CSK) are lucky enough to have and his demeanor is much like Mahi (Dhoni) - calm, composed, chilled out, and a really nice human being. I really like him, he's a great kid," Uthappa said in a video posted by CSK on Twitter.

Watch video:

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Calm, composed.. that before? 
 
Robbing ft. Rutu! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 🦁 <a href="https://twitter.com/Ruutu1331?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ruutu1331</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/robbieuthappa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@robbieuthappa</a> <a href="https://t.co/YTxkrPvlPK">pic.twitter.com/YTxkrPvlPK</a>
— Chennai Super Kings - Mask Pdu Whistle Pdu! (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1442764367062179848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-surpasses-dinesh-karthik-to-achieve-elusive-ipl-milestone-as-wicket-keeper-416168">MS Dhoni surpasses Dinesh Karthik to achieve elusive IPL milestone as wicket-keeper</a>

Gaikwad has been one of the stand-out performers for CSK this season and has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow. He produced a brilliant knock of 88 runs under pressure against Mumbai Indians in CSK's first game of the UAE leg to help the side get off to a winning start before notching up 38 and 40 runs respectively in CSK's last two matches

The 24-year-old has cemented his spot in the playing XI as the first-choice opener and is in the list of top run-getters this season with 362 runs from ten matches at a brilliant average of 40.22. Gaikwad is currently fifth on the list of top run-getters so far this season and will be hopeful of continuing his stellar run in the upcoming matches.

CSK will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next game on Thursday (September 30) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah. The Dhoni-led side is only one win away from sealing their spot in the playoffs this season.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batsman Robin Uthappa has lauded young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad for his stellar performances in the ongoing season of IPL 2021. Uthappa feels CSK are lucky to have an incredibly talented youngster like Gaikwad in their ranks and compared his calm demeanour to that of captain MS Dhoni.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batsman Robin Uthappa has lauded young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad for his stellar performances in the ongoing season of IPL 2021. Uthappa feels CSK are lucky to have an incredibly talented youngster like Gaikwad in their ranks and compared his calm demeanour to that of captain MS Dhoni. Dhoni, who is famously known as captain cool, is one of the most successful captains in the history of IPL and is known for his calm and composed attitude. The CSK skipper has already drawn curtains on his international career but continues to lead the three-time champions in IPL. Uthappa said Gaikwad's demeanour is much like that of his captain. "I think the character showed from Rutu (Ruturaj Gaikwad), I think is unbelievable. I think he is an incredible talent that we (CSK) are lucky enough to have and his demeanor is much like Mahi (Dhoni) - calm, composed, chilled out, and a really nice human being. I really like him, he's a great kid," Uthappa said in a video posted by CSK on Twitter. Watch video: Calm, composed.. that before? Robbing ft. Rutu! #WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁 @Ruutu1331 @robbieuthappa pic.twitter.com/YTxkrPvlPK — Chennai Super Kings - Mask Pdu Whistle Pdu! (@ChennaiIPL) September 28, 2021 × Also Read: MS Dhoni surpasses Dinesh Karthik to achieve elusive IPL milestone as wicket-keeper Gaikwad has been one of the stand-out performers for CSK this season and has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow. He produced a brilliant knock of 88 runs under pressure against Mumbai Indians in CSK's first game of the UAE leg to help the side get off to a winning start before notching up 38 and 40 runs respectively in CSK's last two matches The 24-year-old has cemented his spot in the playing XI as the first-choice opener and is in the list of top run-getters this season with 362 runs from ten matches at a brilliant average of 40.22. Gaikwad is currently fifth on the list of top run-getters so far this season and will be hopeful of continuing his stellar run in the upcoming matches. CSK will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next game on Thursday (September 30) at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah. The Dhoni-led side is only one win away from sealing their spot in the playoffs this season.

'His demeanour is much like Mahi': Robin Uthappa compares incredibly talented CSK star to MS Dhoni

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