<p>The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has written to the apex body &ndash; the BCCI, seeking a ban on star broadcasters Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull from commentating during the remainder of IPL 2025 matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, per the latest report. In an explosive yet strong letter to the BCCI, the CAB expressed reservations over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-harsha-bhogle-simon-doull-unhappy-with-kkr-pitch-curator-for-disrespecting-ajinkya-rahane-8895205" rel="dofollow">Bhogle and Doull&rsquo;s remarks criticising the Eden pitch curator</a> Sujan Mukherjee.</p>
<p>It all began following Kolkata Knight Riders&rsquo; (KKR) tournament opener against RCB at the Eden Gardens, which the visitors won by seven wickets. After the KKR pitch curator denied preparing a spin-friendly track and instead offered the one where seamers had more purchase, team captain Ajinkya Rahane showed displeasure over the same during the post-match presentation.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-central-contract-list-abhishek-sharma-harshit-rana-among-newcomers-added-shreyas-iyer-ishan-kishan-back-rohit-kohli-bumrah-check-full-list-8985078" rel="dofollow">BCCI central contract list: Abhishek Sharma among newcomers added; Iyer, Kishan are back - Check full list</a></strong></p>
<p>Speaking on the same lines, TV broadcasters Bhogle and Doull slammed the KKR pitch curator (after KKR&rsquo;s away win against Rajasthan Royals) for not listening to the home team&rsquo;s demand, arguing that KKR should move their home matches outside the Eden Gardens and host them elsewhere.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;...I saw something what the KKR curator has said. If I'm in the KKR camp, I'm extremely unhappy of what he said because I'm not asking for a 120 surface. I'm just saying, give me a surface where my bowlers can win matches. To say, 'Sorry, we don't prepare pitches like that...' No. We are not asking you to make a 120 pitch, we are not asking you to make a 240 pitch.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;But I think home advantage in a tournament like IPL is absolutely legitimate. That will enhance the tournament because winning away becomes crucial then," Bhogle said in a Cricbuzz show.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Simon Doull went one step ahead, saying, &ldquo;If he's not taking heed of what the home team wants... I mean, they are paying the stadium fees, they are paying for what's going on in the IPL, but if he's still not paying heed to what the home team wants, then just move the franchise away to somewhere else.</p>
<p>"His job is not to pass an opinion on the game. That's not what he's paid for,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>'He's just following BCCI's rule book' - CAB on KKR pitch curator</h2>
<p>Although there was plenty of two and fro surrounding this earlier, where Sujan first denied rejecting Rahane&rsquo;s plea to prepare spin-friendly tracks in home matches to later admitting doing away with that, claiming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-kkr-pitch-curator-does-u-turn-in-ajinkya-rahane-episode-says-those-who-are-accusing-me-sujan-mukherjee-8898729" rel="dofollow">he just followed BCCI&rsquo;s guidelines</a>, the CAB has thrown its weight behind him for the same reason.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-coach-chandrakant-pandit-backs-ajinkya-rahane-over-eden-gardens-pitch-controversy-bats-for-favourable-home-conditions-kkr-vs-mi-8907831" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: KKR coach backs Rahane over &lsquo;Eden Gardens pitch controversy&rsquo;, bats for &lsquo;favourable home conditions&rsquo;</a></strong></p>
<p>CAB argues that Sujan followed the BCCI&rsquo;s rule book, which states that no IPL franchise shall have a say in deciding a wicket&rsquo;s nature anywhere, let&nbsp;alone at home.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, the report further suggests that BCCI hasn't responded to the letter yet, adding neither Bhogle nor Doull will be present at the venue for the side&rsquo;s home game against Gujarat Titans on Monday (Apr 21).&nbsp;</p>
<p>Sujan, however, commented on this matter earlier, saying, "I do not have to bother about what Harsha Bhogle or Simon Doull said. What matters to me is what the spectators and my association say about the wicket. I am accountable to the BCCI for producing a good sporting wicket."</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

In an explosive yet strong letter to the BCCI, the CAB expressed reservations over Bhogle and Doull’s remarks criticising the Eden pitch curator. Sports, Cricket

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has written to the apex body – the BCCI, seeking a ban on star broadcasters Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull from commentating during the remainder of IPL 2025 matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, per the latest report. In an explosive yet strong letter to the BCCI, the CAB expressed reservations over Bhogle and Doull’s remarks criticising the Eden pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee. It all began following Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) tournament opener against RCB at the Eden Gardens, which the visitors won by seven wickets. After the KKR pitch curator denied preparing a spin-friendly track and instead offered the one where seamers had more purchase, team captain Ajinkya Rahane showed displeasure over the same during the post-match presentation. Also read | BCCI central contract list: Abhishek Sharma among newcomers added; Iyer, Kishan are back - Check full list Speaking on the same lines, TV broadcasters Bhogle and Doull slammed the KKR pitch curator (after KKR’s away win against Rajasthan Royals) for not listening to the home team’s demand, arguing that KKR should move their home matches outside the Eden Gardens and host them elsewhere. “...I saw something what the KKR curator has said. If I'm in the KKR camp, I'm extremely unhappy of what he said because I'm not asking for a 120 surface. I'm just saying, give me a surface where my bowlers can win matches. To say, 'Sorry, we don't prepare pitches like that...' No. We are not asking you to make a 120 pitch, we are not asking you to make a 240 pitch. “But I think home advantage in a tournament like IPL is absolutely legitimate. That will enhance the tournament because winning away becomes crucial then," Bhogle said in a Cricbuzz show. Meanwhile, Simon Doull went one step ahead, saying, “If he's not taking heed of what the home team wants... I mean, they are paying the stadium fees, they are paying for what's going on in the IPL, but if he's still not paying heed to what the home team wants, then just move the franchise away to somewhere else. "His job is not to pass an opinion on the game. That's not what he's paid for,” he added. 'He's just following BCCI's rule book' - CAB on KKR pitch curator Although there was plenty of two and fro surrounding this earlier, where Sujan first denied rejecting Rahane’s plea to prepare spin-friendly tracks in home matches to later admitting doing away with that, claiming he just followed BCCI’s guidelines, the CAB has thrown its weight behind him for the same reason. Also read | IPL 2025: KKR coach backs Rahane over ‘Eden Gardens pitch controversy’, bats for ‘favourable home conditions’ CAB argues that Sujan followed the BCCI’s rule book, which states that no IPL franchise shall have a say in deciding a wicket’s nature anywhere, let alone at home. Meanwhile, the report further suggests that BCCI hasn't responded to the letter yet, adding neither Bhogle nor Doull will be present at the venue for the side’s home game against Gujarat Titans on Monday (Apr 21). Sujan, however, commented on this matter earlier, saying, "I do not have to bother about what Harsha Bhogle or Simon Doull said. What matters to me is what the spectators and my association say about the wicket. I am accountable to the BCCI for producing a good sporting wicket." (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Ban star commentators, demands Bengal cricket body over KKR pitch row - Report

<p>KKR pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee rejected team captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ajinkya-rahane" rel="dofollow">Ajinkya Rahane</a>&rsquo;s request to prepare pitches that could aid their spinners so that they could maximise their home advantage, with broadcasters Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull coming down hard on him for disrespecting Rahane. Although KKR won their second game of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-rr-vs-kkr-live-score-updates-6th-match-rajasthan-royals-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-today-live-cricket-match-scorecard-26-march-8893149" rel="dofollow">beating Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati</a>, their home loss in the tournament opener didn&rsquo;t sit well with cricket experts.</p>
<p>Knowing KKR has enjoyed enormous success banking on their spin attack, no assistance provided for the curtain raiser this time hurt their result, as RCB prevailed in a lop-sided contest. After posting a moderate 174/8 in the first innings, KKR could pick just three RCB wickets, two of which came to their mystery spin pair of Varun Chakaravarthy and Sunil Narine.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-marsh-acknowledges-lsg-going-to-be-under-pressure-against-srh-8894171" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Marsh acknowledges LSG 'going to be under pressure' against SRH</a></strong></p>
<p>Meanwhile, Bhogle pointed out how home teams rightly use the pitch advantage to their benefit, and if all IPL teams are getting this privilege, then KKR should also. The veteran TV commentator expressed displeasure over KKR&rsquo;s pitch curator remarks, saying Rahane never asked for rank turners or 120-run pitches; instead, all that he asked for were the surfaces where his spinners could get some purchase.</p>
<p>"RR, if they are playing at home, should get the tracks that they think are suited for their bowlers. So too with KKR. I saw something what the KKR curator has said. If I'm in the KKR camp, I'm extremely unhappy of what he said because I'm not asking for a 120 surface.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;I'm just saying give me a surface where my bowlers can win matches. To say, 'Sorry, we don't prepare pitches like that...' No. We are not asking you to make a 120 pitch, we are not asking you to make a 240 pitch.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;But I think home advantage in a tournament like IPL is absolutely legitimate. That will enhance the tournament because winning away becomes crucial then," Bhogle said in a Cricbuzz show.</p>
<h2>What did KKR pitch curator say?</h2>
<p>Since taking over the job ten years ago, Sujan has ensured the Eden Gardens pitch remains quick, assisting bounce and seam movement, unlike the ones prepared previously, where it used to benefit spinners, something the former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir banked (with his spin-heavy squads) winning two IPL titles (2012 and 2014).&nbsp;</p>
<p>Although Rahane put it under the mat after the RCB loss, saying the pitch behaved such because they covered it for some time, Sujan outright denied accepting any requests for altering its condition in games to come.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;As per the IPL rules and regulations, franchises have no say over the pitch,&rdquo; he said in a chat with RevSportz. &ldquo;Ever since I have taken charge (as Eden curator), the pitches here have been like this. It was like this in the past. Things haven&rsquo;t changed now, and it will not be altered in the future.&rdquo;</p>
<h3>&lsquo;He&rsquo;s not paid&hellip;&rsquo;</h3>
<p>While Bhogle kept it subtle in criticising KKR&rsquo;s curator, Doull didn&rsquo;t mince his words, coming down hard on him.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"If he's not taking heed of what the home team wants... I mean they are paying the stadium fees, they are paying for what's going on in the IPL but if he's still not paying heed of what the home team wants, then just move the franchise away to somewhere else.</p>
<p>"His job is not to pass an opinion on the game. That's not what he's paid for," Doull said.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: The veteran TV commentators expressed displeasure over KKR’s pitch curator remarks, saying Rahane never asked for rank turners or 120-run pitches.

KKR pitch curator Sujan Mukherjee rejected team captain Ajinkya Rahane’s request to prepare pitches that could aid their spinners so that they could maximise their home advantage, with broadcasters Harsha Bhogle and Simon Doull coming down hard on him for disrespecting Rahane. Although KKR won their second game of IPL 2025 by beating Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, their home loss in the tournament opener didn’t sit well with cricket experts. Knowing KKR has enjoyed enormous success banking on their spin attack, no assistance provided for the curtain raiser this time hurt their result, as RCB prevailed in a lop-sided contest. After posting a moderate 174/8 in the first innings, KKR could pick just three RCB wickets, two of which came to their mystery spin pair of Varun Chakaravarthy and Sunil Narine. Also read | IPL 2025: Marsh acknowledges LSG 'going to be under pressure' against SRH Meanwhile, Bhogle pointed out how home teams rightly use the pitch advantage to their benefit, and if all IPL teams are getting this privilege, then KKR should also. The veteran TV commentator expressed displeasure over KKR’s pitch curator remarks, saying Rahane never asked for rank turners or 120-run pitches; instead, all that he asked for were the surfaces where his spinners could get some purchase. "RR, if they are playing at home, should get the tracks that they think are suited for their bowlers. So too with KKR. I saw something what the KKR curator has said. If I'm in the KKR camp, I'm extremely unhappy of what he said because I'm not asking for a 120 surface. “I'm just saying give me a surface where my bowlers can win matches. To say, 'Sorry, we don't prepare pitches like that...' No. We are not asking you to make a 120 pitch, we are not asking you to make a 240 pitch. “But I think home advantage in a tournament like IPL is absolutely legitimate. That will enhance the tournament because winning away becomes crucial then," Bhogle said in a Cricbuzz show. What did KKR pitch curator say? Since taking over the job ten years ago, Sujan has ensured the Eden Gardens pitch remains quick, assisting bounce and seam movement, unlike the ones prepared previously, where it used to benefit spinners, something the former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir banked (with his spin-heavy squads) winning two IPL titles (2012 and 2014). Although Rahane put it under the mat after the RCB loss, saying the pitch behaved such because they covered it for some time, Sujan outright denied accepting any requests for altering its condition in games to come. “As per the IPL rules and regulations, franchises have no say over the pitch,” he said in a chat with RevSportz. “Ever since I have taken charge (as Eden curator), the pitches here have been like this. It was like this in the past. Things haven’t changed now, and it will not be altered in the future.” ‘He’s not paid…’ While Bhogle kept it subtle in criticising KKR’s curator, Doull didn’t mince his words, coming down hard on him. "If he's not taking heed of what the home team wants... I mean they are paying the stadium fees, they are paying for what's going on in the IPL but if he's still not paying heed of what the home team wants, then just move the franchise away to somewhere else. "His job is not to pass an opinion on the game. That's not what he's paid for," Doull said. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 - Bhogle, Doull unhappy with KKR pitch curator for disrespecting captain Rahane

<p>Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull thinks Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is hiding an undisclosed injury. Newly-appointed MI captain Pandya didn’t bowl upfront in his side’s last two matches despite taking the new ball in the first three matches, leading to speculations of the reason behind it. Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024, Pandya bowled just one over, conceding 13 runs before taking himself out of the attack.</p>

<p>Doull, also a pundit on Cricbuzz, pointed out that Pandya perhaps has suffered an undisclosed injury and that is why he isn’t bowling, adding that he is refraining from admitting it.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-match-27-punjab-kings-vs-rajasthan-royals-match-preview-and-result-prediction-710726">IPL 2024, Match 27, Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals – Match Preview and result prediction</a></strong></p>

<p>“You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required. He's injured. I'm telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it. But there is something wrong with him for sure. That is my gut feeling,” Doull said during a discussion on Cricbuzz.</p>

<p>Already suffering wrath from the fans in each game for his manner of appointment as Mumbai Indians' captain, taking over the baton from veteran Rohit Sharma, Pandya hasn’t performed to the best of his ability thus far this season. Let alone being effective with the ball in hand, Pandya has picked just one wicket at an economy of over 11. While batting, Pandya has scored just 129 runs in five matches, with his best being 39.</p>

<p>The fans at each venue, including at his home ground at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, have booed him for almost everything. The pressure seems to mount on the Indian youngster, who is keen to prove his credentials as a top star and a leader in the team.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>No more injury, please!</h2>

<p>Pandya has been an injury-prone cricketer, with his back being the most vulnerable part of his body. Following getting injured (ankle) during the Bangladesh tie in the 2023 World Cup in October, Pandya remained on the sidelines for over four months, missing all on-field action, including the Australia T20Is, away South Africa tour and Afghanistan T20Is at home earlier this year.</p>

<p>Since making his&nbsp;preferences of playing only white-ball cricket for India clearer, Pandya was not considered for selection for the England Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The right-handed all-rounder trained and rehabbed at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru in the meantime and returned to competitive cricket during a local tournament DY Patil T20 Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with the 2024 T20 World Cup beginning right after IPL 2024, Pandya’s fitness and form will be crucial for India in its quest to win an ICC title.&nbsp;</p>


Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull thinks Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is hiding an undisclosed injury. Newly-appointed MI captain Pandya didn’t bowl upfront in his side’s last two matches despite taking the new ball in the first three matches, leading to speculations of the reason behind it.

Former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull thinks Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is hiding an undisclosed injury. Newly-appointed MI captain Pandya didn’t bowl upfront in his side’s last two matches despite taking the new ball in the first three matches, leading to speculations of the reason behind it. Against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024, Pandya bowled just one over, conceding 13 runs before taking himself out of the attack. Doull, also a pundit on Cricbuzz, pointed out that Pandya perhaps has suffered an undisclosed injury and that is why he isn’t bowling, adding that he is refraining from admitting it. ALSO READ: IPL 2024, Match 27, Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals – Match Preview and result prediction “You go out and make a statement by opening the bowling in game no. 1, and suddenly, you are not required. He's injured. I'm telling you there is something wrong with him. He is not admitting it. But there is something wrong with him for sure. That is my gut feeling,” Doull said during a discussion on Cricbuzz. Already suffering wrath from the fans in each game for his manner of appointment as Mumbai Indians' captain, taking over the baton from veteran Rohit Sharma, Pandya hasn’t performed to the best of his ability thus far this season. Let alone being effective with the ball in hand, Pandya has picked just one wicket at an economy of over 11. While batting, Pandya has scored just 129 runs in five matches, with his best being 39. The fans at each venue, including at his home ground at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, have booed him for almost everything. The pressure seems to mount on the Indian youngster, who is keen to prove his credentials as a top star and a leader in the team. No more injury, please! Pandya has been an injury-prone cricketer, with his back being the most vulnerable part of his body. Following getting injured (ankle) during the Bangladesh tie in the 2023 World Cup in October, Pandya remained on the sidelines for over four months, missing all on-field action, including the Australia T20Is, away South Africa tour and Afghanistan T20Is at home earlier this year. Since making his preferences of playing only white-ball cricket for India clearer, Pandya was not considered for selection for the England Tests. The right-handed all-rounder trained and rehabbed at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru in the meantime and returned to competitive cricket during a local tournament DY Patil T20 Cup. However, with the 2024 T20 World Cup beginning right after IPL 2024, Pandya’s fitness and form will be crucial for India in its quest to win an ICC title.

IPL 2024: Is Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya hiding an undisclosed injury? Simon Doull thinks so

<p>Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull has criticised MS Dhoni for his 16-ball 37-run innings against Delhi Capitals over the last weekend. The cricketer-tuned-commentator pointed towards Dhoni's denial of singles in the penultimate over which contributed to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) facing their first loss of the season.</p>

<p>With the game almost out of reach, Dhoni took the onus on himself to hit the big ones and refused to take singles, keeping Ravindra Jadeja as a spectator on the other end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I know there was a lot of hoopla about Dhoni's innings but he blocked a lot of balls. He faced a lot of dots and then when he started to not take runs, I could not believe what I was watching. I know he is the great MS Dhoni but it was a poor call. It was a really poor call not to take those runs," said Doull.</p>

<p>The five-time champions were chasing a difficult target of 192 and had been trudging at a lowly run rate of 7.5 when Dhoni arrived at the crease in the 17th over. At that stage, CSK required another 72 runs in 23 balls and Dhoni started off by hitting couple of boundaries in his first three deliveries. However, he refused singles in the 19th over which only yielded five runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You are still trying to win the game and I know it is his first bat in a long time, first bat of the season and he is probably thinking at some stage of maybe getting to find some form but I didn't agree with it. I didn't agree with what happened in that situation. To me, it was a really poor look. I was watching it and thinking you know, it didn't look good for me. That just didn't look quite right to me when he wasn't taking runs," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-watch-csk-batter-ms-dhonis-power-hitting-in-death-overs-against-dc-thrills-crowd-706463"><strong>WATCH | CSK batter MS Dhoni's power hitting in death overs against DC thrills crowd</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Dhoni should come up&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While the Kiwi criticised Dhoni for his innings, other former players were full of praise of the veteran, with many suggesting that he come up the order to provide impetus to CSK's innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australian pacer Brett Lee was the first one to make the case for Dhoni to be pushed up the order by the CSK management.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was on tonight, he was not rusty. I do want more from him in terms of batting. Get yourself up the order. He is outstanding, his brain is still nice and sharp, CSK please get MS Dhoni up the order," the former Aussie fast bowler said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-former-indian-australian-players-urge-csk-to-promote-ms-dhoni-up-the-order-after-vizag-blitz-706547"><strong>Also read | IPL 2024: Former Indian, Australian players urge CSK to promote MS Dhoni up the order after Vizag blitz</strong></a></p>

<p>Mohammed Kaif echoed a similar sentiment and said Dhoni did not look like a player who had not played cricket in the last year or so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The way he batted today, this No.8 isn't his spot. He should be playing at No.4 or No.5. Come in and playing a few deliveries but Dhoni is batting way too low at No.8. The form that we saw today, that spot is too low and you would like to see him come early and help CSK win matches," said Kaif.&nbsp;</p>


Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull has criticised MS Dhoni for his 16-ball 37-run innings against Delhi Capitals over the last weekend. The cricketer-tuned-commentator pointed towards Dhoni's denial of singles in the penultimate over which contributed to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) facing their first loss of the season.

Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull has criticised MS Dhoni for his 16-ball 37-run innings against Delhi Capitals over the last weekend. The cricketer-tuned-commentator pointed towards Dhoni's denial of singles in the penultimate over which contributed to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) facing their first loss of the season. With the game almost out of reach, Dhoni took the onus on himself to hit the big ones and refused to take singles, keeping Ravindra Jadeja as a spectator on the other end. "I know there was a lot of hoopla about Dhoni's innings but he blocked a lot of balls. He faced a lot of dots and then when he started to not take runs, I could not believe what I was watching. I know he is the great MS Dhoni but it was a poor call. It was a really poor call not to take those runs," said Doull. The five-time champions were chasing a difficult target of 192 and had been trudging at a lowly run rate of 7.5 when Dhoni arrived at the crease in the 17th over. At that stage, CSK required another 72 runs in 23 balls and Dhoni started off by hitting couple of boundaries in his first three deliveries. However, he refused singles in the 19th over which only yielded five runs. "You are still trying to win the game and I know it is his first bat in a long time, first bat of the season and he is probably thinking at some stage of maybe getting to find some form but I didn't agree with it. I didn't agree with what happened in that situation. To me, it was a really poor look. I was watching it and thinking you know, it didn't look good for me. That just didn't look quite right to me when he wasn't taking runs," he added. WATCH | CSK batter MS Dhoni's power hitting in death overs against DC thrills crowd Dhoni should come up While the Kiwi criticised Dhoni for his innings, other former players were full of praise of the veteran, with many suggesting that he come up the order to provide impetus to CSK's innings. Australian pacer Brett Lee was the first one to make the case for Dhoni to be pushed up the order by the CSK management. "He was on tonight, he was not rusty. I do want more from him in terms of batting. Get yourself up the order. He is outstanding, his brain is still nice and sharp, CSK please get MS Dhoni up the order," the former Aussie fast bowler said. Also read | IPL 2024: Former Indian, Australian players urge CSK to promote MS Dhoni up the order after Vizag blitz Mohammed Kaif echoed a similar sentiment and said Dhoni did not look like a player who had not played cricket in the last year or so. "The way he batted today, this No.8 isn't his spot. He should be playing at No.4 or No.5. Come in and playing a few deliveries but Dhoni is batting way too low at No.8. The form that we saw today, that spot is too low and you would like to see him come early and help CSK win matches," said Kaif.

'Couldn't believe what I was watching': Simon Doull criticises MS Dhoni for his knock against DC

<p>Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull lavished huge praise on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)'s finisher Dinesh Karthik for his stunning show versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. Playing at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB restricted Punjab to 176 for 6 before chasing down the score in 19.2 overs with four wickets in hand courtesy of Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77, DK's 10-ball 28* and Mahipal Lomror's 8-ball 17*. After the game, Doull praised Karthik for making full use of his experience as a finisher to take Bengaluru home in a tense run-chase.</p>

<p>DK came out to bat at No. 7 with RCB needing 47 off the last 30 balls. While he lost Anuj Rawat soon, he stitched a valuable unbeaten 48-run stand with Lomror (the impact substitute) to take his side to their first win of the 17th season on Monday evening (March 25). Thus, Doull appreciated DK's mindset of handling the pressure and understanding what the bowlers were trying to do. He even compared him with MS Dhoni, one of the greatest white-ball finishers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'It&nbsp;was straight out of the MS Dhoni school'</strong></h2>

<p>Doull said on Cricbuzz, "Just shows you the pressure of the situation. I think that's the key to those who hold their nerve a little bit better. That's why when you've got a Dinesh Karthik to get at the backend with that experience. We talked about what he passes on to the youngsters and the side but it's the experience of keeping calm and understanding what the bowler is trying to do, knowing where your strengths are. It's was straight out of the MS Dhoni school."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-turned-indian-cricketers-into-athletes-kevin-pietersen-hails-rcb-star-batter-704397">IPL 2024: Virat Kohli turned Indian cricketers into athletes - Kevin Pietersen hails RCB star batter</a></strong></p>

<p>He further added, "The deeper you take it as a batting side, the more pressure the bowlers will be under even if you do need quite a large total, even if you need, 36 of three overs, the deeper you take it, the bowlers will feel more pressure and that's exactly what happened. There was some indifferent bowling at times with the wrong field-sets but you've still got to be able to finish it off and be cool and that calm under pressure."</p>

<p>Earlier, Mohammed Siraj and Glenn Maxwell accounted for two wickets apiece to restrict Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab to 176-6 before chasing down the score in the last over. RCB will now host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday evening (March 29).&nbsp;</p>


Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull lavished huge praise on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)'s finisher Dinesh Karthik for his stunning show versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the ongoing IPL 2024 edition.

Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull lavished huge praise on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)'s finisher Dinesh Karthik for his stunning show versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. Playing at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB restricted Punjab to 176 for 6 before chasing down the score in 19.2 overs with four wickets in hand courtesy of Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77, DK's 10-ball 28* and Mahipal Lomror's 8-ball 17*. After the game, Doull praised Karthik for making full use of his experience as a finisher to take Bengaluru home in a tense run-chase. DK came out to bat at No. 7 with RCB needing 47 off the last 30 balls. While he lost Anuj Rawat soon, he stitched a valuable unbeaten 48-run stand with Lomror (the impact substitute) to take his side to their first win of the 17th season on Monday evening (March 25). Thus, Doull appreciated DK's mindset of handling the pressure and understanding what the bowlers were trying to do. He even compared him with MS Dhoni, one of the greatest white-ball finishers. 'It was straight out of the MS Dhoni school' Doull said on Cricbuzz, "Just shows you the pressure of the situation. I think that's the key to those who hold their nerve a little bit better. That's why when you've got a Dinesh Karthik to get at the backend with that experience. We talked about what he passes on to the youngsters and the side but it's the experience of keeping calm and understanding what the bowler is trying to do, knowing where your strengths are. It's was straight out of the MS Dhoni school." Also read: IPL 2024: Virat Kohli turned Indian cricketers into athletes - Kevin Pietersen hails RCB star batter He further added, "The deeper you take it as a batting side, the more pressure the bowlers will be under even if you do need quite a large total, even if you need, 36 of three overs, the deeper you take it, the bowlers will feel more pressure and that's exactly what happened. There was some indifferent bowling at times with the wrong field-sets but you've still got to be able to finish it off and be cool and that calm under pressure." Earlier, Mohammed Siraj and Glenn Maxwell accounted for two wickets apiece to restrict Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab to 176-6 before chasing down the score in the last over. RCB will now host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday evening (March 29).

IPL 2024: ‘Straight out of the Dhoni school’ - Doull hails DK after RCB finisher’s stunning show vs PBKS

<p>The IPL 2024 mini-auction was a successful affair held on Dec 19 in Dubai. It was the first-ever IPL auction held outside India which saw Australia's Mitchell Starc (INR 24.75 crore - 247.5 million) and Pat Cummins (INR 20.50 crore - 205 million) end as the most expensive players. Starc is, thus, set to return to the IPL after nine years when he dons the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) jersey in IPL 2024. He last played in the cash-rich league in IPL 2015&nbsp;for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Cummins, on the other hand, didn't feature in this year's IPL season but will join the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in next year's edition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the auction, former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull reacted to Cummins' signing. Doull remains baffled by the Hyderabad-based franchise's tactics and asked how the camp desires to make use of the Aussie captain. He said while speaking on Star Sports, "Maybe they are looking for a captain. We have joked a little bit about it. Does (Aiden) Markram play every game now? They haven't announced their skipper. Does Pat Cummins take over that franchise? Does he come in and play a lot more instead of a (Marco) Jansen next year for them?"</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-auction-shashank-singh-bought-by-punjab-kings-reacts-on-confusion-672037">IPL 2024 Auction: Shashank Singh, bought by Punjab Kings, reacts on confusion</a></strong></p>

<p>"That's going to be the question mark. Now that you have paid all this money, you have got to get him into that team. Where does he start and whose place does he take? They have got a lot of high-quality overseas talent," added Doull.</p>

<p>SRH have been a pale shadow of themselves since the IPL 2021 edition. In the last edition, the 2016 winners ended at the bottom under Aiden Markram's leadership. With Cummins included, it will be interesting to see if the SRH team management appoint him the new captain. The Aussie pacer has had a dream run in 2023, leading Australia to two major titles, i.e.&nbsp;the WTC 2023 final and the ODI World Cup finale last month in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>SRH squad for IPL 2024</strong></p>

<p>Abdul Samad, Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram (c), Marco Jansen, Rahul Tripathi, Washington Sundar, Glenn Phillips, Sanvir Singh, Heinrich Klaasen, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mayank Agarwal, T. Natarajan, Anmolpreet Singh, Mayank Markande, Upendra Singh Yadav, Umran Malik, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Shahbaz Ahmed , Travis Head, Wanindu Hasaranga, Pat Cummins, Jaydev Unadkat, Akash Singh, Jhathavedh Subramanyan.&nbsp;</p>


The IPL 2024 mini-auction was a successful affair held on Dec 19 in Dubai. It was the first-ever IPL auction held outside India which saw Australia's Mitchell Starc (INR 24.

The IPL 2024 mini-auction was a successful affair held on Dec 19 in Dubai. It was the first-ever IPL auction held outside India which saw Australia's Mitchell Starc (INR 24.75 crore - 247.5 million) and Pat Cummins (INR 20.50 crore - 205 million) end as the most expensive players. Starc is, thus, set to return to the IPL after nine years when he dons the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) jersey in IPL 2024. He last played in the cash-rich league in IPL 2015 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Cummins, on the other hand, didn't feature in this year's IPL season but will join the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in next year's edition. After the auction, former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull reacted to Cummins' signing. Doull remains baffled by the Hyderabad-based franchise's tactics and asked how the camp desires to make use of the Aussie captain. He said while speaking on Star Sports, "Maybe they are looking for a captain. We have joked a little bit about it. Does (Aiden) Markram play every game now? They haven't announced their skipper. Does Pat Cummins take over that franchise? Does he come in and play a lot more instead of a (Marco) Jansen next year for them?" Also read: IPL 2024 Auction: Shashank Singh, bought by Punjab Kings, reacts on confusion "That's going to be the question mark. Now that you have paid all this money, you have got to get him into that team. Where does he start and whose place does he take? They have got a lot of high-quality overseas talent," added Doull. SRH have been a pale shadow of themselves since the IPL 2021 edition. In the last edition, the 2016 winners ended at the bottom under Aiden Markram's leadership. With Cummins included, it will be interesting to see if the SRH team management appoint him the new captain. The Aussie pacer has had a dream run in 2023, leading Australia to two major titles, i.e. the WTC 2023 final and the ODI World Cup finale last month in India. SRH squad for IPL 2024 Abdul Samad, Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram (c), Marco Jansen, Rahul Tripathi, Washington Sundar, Glenn Phillips, Sanvir Singh, Heinrich Klaasen, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mayank Agarwal, T. Natarajan, Anmolpreet Singh, Mayank Markande, Upendra Singh Yadav, Umran Malik, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Shahbaz Ahmed , Travis Head, Wanindu Hasaranga, Pat Cummins, Jaydev Unadkat, Akash Singh, Jhathavedh Subramanyan.

IPL 2024 auction: Former NZ player baffled by multimillion-dollar man Pat Cummins' inclusion in SRH

<p>During the Asia Cup 2023 edition, former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull made a big claim about&nbsp;Team India. Doull&nbsp;reckoned that India's cricket is too statistics-driven and, hence, it becomes a reason for their downfall in big ICC matches. In addition, he pointed out that the reason for India's failures is that they don't resort to a fearless brand of cricket, which would mean compromising on stats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fearless cricket is there issue," Simon Doull told Sky Sports. "They don’t play fearless cricket enough. They play statistics-driven cricket and they are too worried about their stats too often. And to me, that is the one area I am concerned about their batting side," he added.</p>

<p>Now, former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has responded to Doull's statement and made a big claim. "New Zealand are coming to India. They will get to know if India play attacking cricket or not. We will thrash them. They got lucky in 2019 with MS Dhoni getting run out due to a direct hit. What did you do after playing the final? They made a team like England win the World Cup, who hadn't won a 50-over World Cup until then. New Zealand are never going to win. Yes, they might win in the future, but it will be embarrassing for them this time. If you get a chance address the media, please think before you speak. If you are ready to give, you should be able to take it also." Sreesanth told&nbsp;<i>Sportskeeda</i>.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-is-r-ashwin-a-backup-for-cwc-23-rohit-sharma-spills-the-beans-before-3rd-odi-640093">India vs Australia: Is R Ashwin a backup for CWC '23? Rohit Sharma spills the beans before 3rd ODI</a></strong></p>

<p>Sreesanth added, "I just want to tell Simon Doull that Indians are going to have a blast against New Zealand. New Zealand are going to learn a lot against India. Yes, there have been certain matches where they have done well against us, especially in ICC events. But those times have gone now. If any of these cricketers get to know what you said, and if Virat is made aware of it, it will be a lot of fun to watch that match."</p>

<p>At present, India are busy with their three-match home ODIs versus Australia with the third and final tie currently being held in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). The home side&nbsp;already have the series in the pocket with an unassailable 2-0 lead. On the other hand, a second-stringed New Zealand&nbsp;beat Bangladesh 2-0, on Tuesday (September 26),&nbsp;in the three ODIs in the Bangla Tigers' den.</p>

<p>New Zealand will face defending champions England in the CWC 2023 opener on October 05 in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, India will lock horns with Australia in their respective openers on October 08 in Chennai. Both India and New Zealand will square off in match 21 in Dharamshala.</p>

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During the Asia Cup 2023 edition, former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull made a big claim about Team India. Doull reckoned that India's cricket is too statistics-driven and, hence, it becomes a reason for their downfall in big ICC matches.

During the Asia Cup 2023 edition, former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull made a big claim about Team India. Doull reckoned that India's cricket is too statistics-driven and, hence, it becomes a reason for their downfall in big ICC matches. In addition, he pointed out that the reason for India's failures is that they don't resort to a fearless brand of cricket, which would mean compromising on stats. "Fearless cricket is there issue," Simon Doull told Sky Sports. "They don’t play fearless cricket enough. They play statistics-driven cricket and they are too worried about their stats too often. And to me, that is the one area I am concerned about their batting side," he added. Now, former Indian pacer S Sreesanth has responded to Doull's statement and made a big claim. "New Zealand are coming to India. They will get to know if India play attacking cricket or not. We will thrash them. They got lucky in 2019 with MS Dhoni getting run out due to a direct hit. What did you do after playing the final? They made a team like England win the World Cup, who hadn't won a 50-over World Cup until then. New Zealand are never going to win. Yes, they might win in the future, but it will be embarrassing for them this time. If you get a chance address the media, please think before you speak. If you are ready to give, you should be able to take it also." Sreesanth told Sportskeeda. Also read: India vs Australia: Is R Ashwin a backup for CWC '23? Rohit Sharma spills the beans before 3rd ODI Sreesanth added, "I just want to tell Simon Doull that Indians are going to have a blast against New Zealand. New Zealand are going to learn a lot against India. Yes, there have been certain matches where they have done well against us, especially in ICC events. But those times have gone now. If any of these cricketers get to know what you said, and if Virat is made aware of it, it will be a lot of fun to watch that match." At present, India are busy with their three-match home ODIs versus Australia with the third and final tie currently being held in Rajkot on Wednesday (September 27). The home side already have the series in the pocket with an unassailable 2-0 lead. On the other hand, a second-stringed New Zealand beat Bangladesh 2-0, on Tuesday (September 26), in the three ODIs in the Bangla Tigers' den. New Zealand will face defending champions England in the CWC 2023 opener on October 05 in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, India will lock horns with Australia in their respective openers on October 08 in Chennai. Both India and New Zealand will square off in match 21 in Dharamshala. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'If Kohli or any...': Sreesanth slams Doull for stat jibe, says India will 'have a blast' vs NZ in CWC '23

<p>Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull thinks India are worried about their stats too often and that has let them down in the last few world cups. The comments from Doull comes with ICC ODI World Cup set to begin next month on October 5 in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Fearless cricket is their&nbsp;issue,” Simon Doull told Sky Sports when asked about India's chances at the upcoming quadrennial tournament.</p>

<p>“They don’t play fearless cricket enough."</p>

<p>“They play statistics driven cricket and they are too worried about their stats too often. And to me that is the one area I am concerned about their batting side,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-unveils-plan-on-how-to-dominate-on-slower-pitches-during-world-cup-2023-636494">Shubman Gill unveils plan on how to dominate on slower pitches during World Cup 2023</a></p>

<p>Doull, however, agreed that India have loads of talent but they don't go out there and take risks and that has costed them in the world cups.</p>

<p>“They have got all the talent and some of the best players if not the best players in the world."</p>

<p>“But it is about playing the fearless cricket at the right time of the tournament and I think that is what had really let them down in the last few World Cups."</p>

<p>“They don’t go out there and and take risks because they are so worried about what might be said or what might be printed or what might someone ask them about their place in the team. That’s the one area I am concerned with,” added Doull.</p>

<p>India, who are currently no. 2 in the ICC ODI rankings, are considered as one of the favorites to win the marquee tournament alongside defending champions England and Australia. They had last won the 50-over World Cup in 2011 and bowed out in semi-final in the next two editions (2015 and 2019).</p>

<p>As of now, the Men in Blue are competing in the Asia Cup 2023 where they'll meet Sri Lanka in the final on Sunday, September 17. India are also scheduled to play Australia in a three-match ODI series from September 22 ahead of the World Cup.</p>

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Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull thinks India are worried about their stats too often and that has let them down in the last few world cups. The comments from Doull comes with ICC ODI World Cup set to begin next month on October 5 in India.

Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull thinks India are worried about their stats too often and that has let them down in the last few world cups. The comments from Doull comes with ICC ODI World Cup set to begin next month on October 5 in India. “Fearless cricket is their issue,” Simon Doull told Sky Sports when asked about India's chances at the upcoming quadrennial tournament. “They don’t play fearless cricket enough." “They play statistics driven cricket and they are too worried about their stats too often. And to me that is the one area I am concerned about their batting side,” he said. Also Read: Shubman Gill unveils plan on how to dominate on slower pitches during World Cup 2023 Doull, however, agreed that India have loads of talent but they don't go out there and take risks and that has costed them in the world cups. “They have got all the talent and some of the best players if not the best players in the world." “But it is about playing the fearless cricket at the right time of the tournament and I think that is what had really let them down in the last few World Cups." “They don’t go out there and and take risks because they are so worried about what might be said or what might be printed or what might someone ask them about their place in the team. That’s the one area I am concerned with,” added Doull. India, who are currently no. 2 in the ICC ODI rankings, are considered as one of the favorites to win the marquee tournament alongside defending champions England and Australia. They had last won the 50-over World Cup in 2011 and bowed out in semi-final in the next two editions (2015 and 2019). As of now, the Men in Blue are competing in the Asia Cup 2023 where they'll meet Sri Lanka in the final on Sunday, September 17. India are also scheduled to play Australia in a three-match ODI series from September 22 ahead of the World Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'India don’t play fearless cricket,' says former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull ahead of ODI World Cup

<p>Cricketer-turned-commentator New Zealand's Simon Doull feels giving up Mumbai Indians captaincy will set Rohit Sharma free, something he needs as the IPL veteran continues to struggle for runs this season. Rohit Sharma perhaps tried everything - gave himself an extended run, dropped to number three, didn't field in one game and came as an impact player - but nothing seems to work.</p>

<p>Although his team has risen from the ashes following a terrible start this season, and is now on the brink of sealing a playoff berth - what earlier looked like an improbable task, Rohit's fans are aware of his dip in form.</p>

<p>Doull, who had faced the wrath of speaking against two top players' (Virat and Babar) strike rates earlier, has again made a bold comment on Rohit Sharma's future as MI captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-perplexed-zaheer-khan-raises-questions-over-umran-maliks-omission-from-srh-squad-594013">IPL 2023: 'Perplexed' Zaheer Khan raises questions over Umran Malik's omission from SRH squad</a></p>

<p>Speaking as an expert on Cricbuzz, Doull said Rohit must let go of the captaincy as he's already leading India in two formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was a big proponent of him [Virat Kohli] giving up the captaincy of RCB, much like I am with Rohit, now that he is the captain of India. I just think this is the tournament where he needs to be free and just play,” Doull said on Cricbuzz, as quoted in India Today.</p>

<h2>Rohit must follow Kohli's path - Simon</h2>

<p>Explaining further what he meant, Doull said looking at how Kohli benefitted after resigning as a captain, Rohit must follow the same path as he deserves to play freely and score runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, former South African captain Faf du Plessis replaced Kohli, and the pair wreaked havoc this season, contributing with more than 800 runs at the top.</p>

<p>"When I talked about Virat and the captaincy, it was like every pressure was on him. Indian captaincy, three formats, RCB captaincy, and just to see that taken away, and it was never going to go to someone who he wasn't going to respect. So there are only two or three players in world cricket that could have gone to Bangalore and been captain,” Doull added</p>

<p>In 13 matches this season, Rohit has scored just 257 runs at an average of 19.77 and a strike rate of 131.12. With MI currently placed fifth on the points table with 14 points from 13 matches, they will only qualify for the playoffs if they win their final league match against SunRisers Hyderabad at home.</p>

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Cricketer-turned-commentator New Zealand's Simon Doull feels giving up Mumbai Indians captaincy will set Rohit Sharma free, something he needs as the IPL veteran continues to struggle for runs this season.

Cricketer-turned-commentator New Zealand's Simon Doull feels giving up Mumbai Indians captaincy will set Rohit Sharma free, something he needs as the IPL veteran continues to struggle for runs this season. Rohit Sharma perhaps tried everything - gave himself an extended run, dropped to number three, didn't field in one game and came as an impact player - but nothing seems to work. Although his team has risen from the ashes following a terrible start this season, and is now on the brink of sealing a playoff berth - what earlier looked like an improbable task, Rohit's fans are aware of his dip in form. Doull, who had faced the wrath of speaking against two top players' (Virat and Babar) strike rates earlier, has again made a bold comment on Rohit Sharma's future as MI captain. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: 'Perplexed' Zaheer Khan raises questions over Umran Malik's omission from SRH squad Speaking as an expert on Cricbuzz, Doull said Rohit must let go of the captaincy as he's already leading India in two formats. "I was a big proponent of him [Virat Kohli] giving up the captaincy of RCB, much like I am with Rohit, now that he is the captain of India. I just think this is the tournament where he needs to be free and just play,” Doull said on Cricbuzz, as quoted in India Today. Rohit must follow Kohli's path - Simon Explaining further what he meant, Doull said looking at how Kohli benefitted after resigning as a captain, Rohit must follow the same path as he deserves to play freely and score runs. Meanwhile, former South African captain Faf du Plessis replaced Kohli, and the pair wreaked havoc this season, contributing with more than 800 runs at the top. "When I talked about Virat and the captaincy, it was like every pressure was on him. Indian captaincy, three formats, RCB captaincy, and just to see that taken away, and it was never going to go to someone who he wasn't going to respect. So there are only two or three players in world cricket that could have gone to Bangalore and been captain,” Doull added In 13 matches this season, Rohit has scored just 257 runs at an average of 19.77 and a strike rate of 131.12. With MI currently placed fifth on the points table with 14 points from 13 matches, they will only qualify for the playoffs if they win their final league match against SunRisers Hyderabad at home. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

IPL 2023: Will giving up Mumbai Indians captaincy help Rohit Sharma find form? Simon Doull feels so

<p>Recently, Simon Doull -- former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator -- made heads turn with his alleged controversial statement on Pakistan. In a recent statement that went viral, it was believed that the New Zealander, who is popular for his commentary stints worldwide, opened up on his experience in Pakistan and said 'living in Pakistan is like being in a jail'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Doull's alleged statement spread like wildfire on social media platforms, he recently opened up on the claims and slammed the fake remark. The fake quote was attributed to Geo News which stated, "Living in Pakistan is like living in jail. I was not allowed to go out as Babar Azam fans were waiting for me. And I stayed in Pakistan without food for many days. Even I was mentally tortured, but by the grace of God, I somehow escaped from Pakistan."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-ms-dhoni-apologised-to-indian-fans-after-team-india-bowed-out-of-2009-t20-wc-583631">THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni apologised to Indian fans after Team India bowed out of 2009 T20 WC</a></strong></p>

<p>Doull took to his official Instagram handle to clarify that he never any such statement and slammed the 'sad people'. <strong>Here's the post -</strong></p>

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<p>Doull clarified, "It’s sad when so-called news channels publish false stories that are made up from fake social media accounts. Please note: Absolutely None of this is true. I loved my time in Pakistan and also love my time in India. Stop the hatred and vitriol towards one another, please. And stop publishing this for your own agenda you sad people."</p>

<p>Doull is currently part of the commentary panel of IPL 2023. He has also worked in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and never shies away from expressing his views. In the recent past, he has blasted the likes of Virat Kohli and Babar Azam for playing for their milestones and on their dwindling strike rates in T20s.&nbsp;</p>


Recently, Simon Doull -- former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator -- made heads turn with his alleged controversial statement on Pakistan. In a recent statement that went viral, it was believed that the New Zealander, who is popular for his commentary stints worldwide, opened up on his experience in Pakistan and said 'living in Pakistan is like being in a jail'.

Recently, Simon Doull -- former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator -- made heads turn with his alleged controversial statement on Pakistan. In a recent statement that went viral, it was believed that the New Zealander, who is popular for his commentary stints worldwide, opened up on his experience in Pakistan and said 'living in Pakistan is like being in a jail'. While Doull's alleged statement spread like wildfire on social media platforms, he recently opened up on the claims and slammed the fake remark. The fake quote was attributed to Geo News which stated, "Living in Pakistan is like living in jail. I was not allowed to go out as Babar Azam fans were waiting for me. And I stayed in Pakistan without food for many days. Even I was mentally tortured, but by the grace of God, I somehow escaped from Pakistan." Also Read: THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni apologised to Indian fans after Team India bowed out of 2009 T20 WC Doull took to his official Instagram handle to clarify that he never any such statement and slammed the 'sad people'. Here's the post - View this post on Instagram A post shared by Simon Doull (@sdoull) × Doull clarified, "It’s sad when so-called news channels publish false stories that are made up from fake social media accounts. Please note: Absolutely None of this is true. I loved my time in Pakistan and also love my time in India. Stop the hatred and vitriol towards one another, please. And stop publishing this for your own agenda you sad people." Doull is currently part of the commentary panel of IPL 2023. He has also worked in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and never shies away from expressing his views. In the recent past, he has blasted the likes of Virat Kohli and Babar Azam for playing for their milestones and on their dwindling strike rates in T20s.

FACT-CHECK: Truth behind Simon Doull's 'living in Pakistan is like being in jail' remark

<p>RCB batsman Virat Kohli is in sublime form this IPL, having scored 164 runs in three innings with two fifties. In his most recent knock against LSG, Kohli scored 66 off 41 balls but was criticised on air by commentator Simon Doull for going slow after reaching 42.</p>

<p>Kohli, in a recent interview published by Jio Cinema, official digital broadcaster of IPL, talked about his strike rate in the conversation with Robin Uthappa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Yeah for sure (important anchor role). I completely agree with that, There are many people who because they have not been in that situation themselves, they look at the game differently," Kohli said to Uthappa.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-gt-skipper-hardik-pandya-reveals-he-was-interested-in-joining-lsg-582701">GT skipper Hardik Pandya reveals he was interested in joining LSG</a></p>

<p>Kohli also explained on why the scoring rate goes down a bit after the powerplay and said, "Suddenly when the powerplay is done, they will be like 'oh, they have started rotating the strike'. When you haven't lost a wicket in the powerplay, usually the best player comes on to bowl, you are trying to figure out what to do against him in the first two overs, so that you can get big ones in the last two overs of that guy and then rest of the innings becomes much easier."</p>

<p>Questioning Kohli's batting, Doull had said, "Kohli started off like a train. He was going hammer and tongs as he was playing a lot of shots. From 42 to 50, he took 10 balls. Concerned about a milestone. I don't think there's room for that in this game anymore. Just got to keep going, especially with wickets in hand at that stage. You got to keep going."</p>

<p>In the match, RCB went on to score 212 runs in 20 overs but LSG, thanks to an unbelievable innings played by Nicholas Pooran, who scored 64 off just 19 balls, won the match in a dramatic manner on the last ball.</p>

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RCB batsman Virat Kohli is in sublime form this IPL, having scored 164 runs in three innings with two fifties. In his most recent knock against LSG, Kohli scored 66 off 41 balls but was criticised on air by commentator Simon Doull for going slow after reaching 42.

RCB batsman Virat Kohli is in sublime form this IPL, having scored 164 runs in three innings with two fifties. In his most recent knock against LSG, Kohli scored 66 off 41 balls but was criticised on air by commentator Simon Doull for going slow after reaching 42. Kohli, in a recent interview published by Jio Cinema, official digital broadcaster of IPL, talked about his strike rate in the conversation with Robin Uthappa. "Yeah for sure (important anchor role). I completely agree with that, There are many people who because they have not been in that situation themselves, they look at the game differently," Kohli said to Uthappa. Also Read: GT skipper Hardik Pandya reveals he was interested in joining LSG Kohli also explained on why the scoring rate goes down a bit after the powerplay and said, "Suddenly when the powerplay is done, they will be like 'oh, they have started rotating the strike'. When you haven't lost a wicket in the powerplay, usually the best player comes on to bowl, you are trying to figure out what to do against him in the first two overs, so that you can get big ones in the last two overs of that guy and then rest of the innings becomes much easier." Questioning Kohli's batting, Doull had said, "Kohli started off like a train. He was going hammer and tongs as he was playing a lot of shots. From 42 to 50, he took 10 balls. Concerned about a milestone. I don't think there's room for that in this game anymore. Just got to keep going, especially with wickets in hand at that stage. You got to keep going." In the match, RCB went on to score 212 runs in 20 overs but LSG, thanks to an unbelievable innings played by Nicholas Pooran, who scored 64 off just 19 balls, won the match in a dramatic manner on the last ball. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: RCB's Virat Kohli opens up on criticism by Simon Doull over slow strike rate

<p>New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull revealed he lived in Pakistan without food for many days and somehow escaped the country following his remarks on Babar Azam's strike rate during PSL 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Doull questioned Babar Azam's selfish approach&nbsp;during a couple of his knocks in PSL 2023, and for the same, he received a lot of flak. Not only this, but Simon also claimed that he couldn't move out as Babar's fans were waiting for him outside.&nbsp;The former Kiwi seamer added that living in Pakistan was like living in a jail.</p>

<p>As quoted by India Today, Geo News in Pakistan reported that Doull admitted to being mentally tortured during his recent stay and that by God's grace, he somehow managed to escape the country.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-rajasthan-royals-captain-sanju-samson-fined-for-maintaining-slow-over-rate-against-csk-582023">IPL 2023: Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson fined for maintaining slow over-rate against CSK</a></p>

<p>"Living in Pakistan is like living in jail. I was not allowed to go out as Babar Azam fans were waiting for me. And I stayed in Pakistan without food for many days. Even I was mentally tortured, but by the grace of God, I somehow escaped from Pakistan," revealed Simon Doull, as quoted by Geo News.</p>

<p>During the record-breaking game against Quetta Gladiators in PSL 2023, Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam hit his maiden hundred. Babar, at one stage, was 83 off 46 balls and took another 14 balls to reach a hundred - something&nbsp;which made Doull, who was commentating during the game, question Babar's selfish approach.</p>

<p>“Rather than putting the team first... the last little while, that's all that been happening. Rather than looking for boundaries, still, so much firepower to come. Hundreds are brilliant, stats are great, but it has to be team first,” Doull was on record saying this.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following his remarks, Doull and Aamir Sohail also had a heated argument over the same.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Doull has also slammed former India captain Virat Kohli for deploying a similar approach during RCB's last league match against Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2023.</p>

<p>“Virat Kohli started off like a train. He was hammering shots. But from 42 to 40 he took 10 balls. He's concerned about his personal milestone. I don’t think there’s room for that in this game anymore. You’ve just got to keep going, especially with wickets in hand at that stage. You’ve got to keep going,” Doull said recently while commentating during RCB vs LSG match in IPL 2023.</p>


New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull revealed he lived in Pakistan without food for many days and somehow escaped the country following his remarks on Babar Azam's strike rate during PSL 2023.

New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull revealed he lived in Pakistan without food for many days and somehow escaped the country following his remarks on Babar Azam's strike rate during PSL 2023. Recently, Doull questioned Babar Azam's selfish approach during a couple of his knocks in PSL 2023, and for the same, he received a lot of flak. Not only this, but Simon also claimed that he couldn't move out as Babar's fans were waiting for him outside. The former Kiwi seamer added that living in Pakistan was like living in a jail. As quoted by India Today, Geo News in Pakistan reported that Doull admitted to being mentally tortured during his recent stay and that by God's grace, he somehow managed to escape the country. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson fined for maintaining slow over-rate against CSK "Living in Pakistan is like living in jail. I was not allowed to go out as Babar Azam fans were waiting for me. And I stayed in Pakistan without food for many days. Even I was mentally tortured, but by the grace of God, I somehow escaped from Pakistan," revealed Simon Doull, as quoted by Geo News. During the record-breaking game against Quetta Gladiators in PSL 2023, Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam hit his maiden hundred. Babar, at one stage, was 83 off 46 balls and took another 14 balls to reach a hundred - something which made Doull, who was commentating during the game, question Babar's selfish approach. “Rather than putting the team first... the last little while, that's all that been happening. Rather than looking for boundaries, still, so much firepower to come. Hundreds are brilliant, stats are great, but it has to be team first,” Doull was on record saying this. Following his remarks, Doull and Aamir Sohail also had a heated argument over the same. Meanwhile, Doull has also slammed former India captain Virat Kohli for deploying a similar approach during RCB's last league match against Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2023. “Virat Kohli started off like a train. He was hammering shots. But from 42 to 40 he took 10 balls. He's concerned about his personal milestone. I don’t think there’s room for that in this game anymore. You’ve just got to keep going, especially with wickets in hand at that stage. You’ve got to keep going,” Doull said recently while commentating during RCB vs LSG match in IPL 2023.

'Living in Pakistan is like living in jail', reveals Simon Doull as he opens up on escaping country somehow

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) hosted the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in match 15 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition on Monday evening (April 10). In a high-scoring thriller, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, Faf du Plessis-led RCB posted a mammoth 212 for 2, riding on fifties from Virat Kohli (61), Faf (79*) and Glenn maxwell (59), but Nicholas Pooran's 62 (19) and Marcus Stoinis' 65 (30) paved the way for Lucknow's one-wicket win&nbsp;on the final ball of the contest.</p>

<p>While RCB batters gave their bowlers a big score to defend, former cricketers and experts believe they still fell short of a winning score. Iconic commentator Harsha Bhogle shared a tweet where he wrote, "This game confirms everything we have been talking about strike rates. Kohli 61(44), eventual SR of 139 but got 16(15) at the end. Du Plessis 79(46) eventual SR of 172 but was 33(30). Those balls don't come back. And #RCB were short in the end. It is not about the eventual SR."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This game confirms everything we have been talking about strike rates. Kohli 61(44), eventual SR of 139 but got 16(15) at the end. Du Plessis 79(46) eventual SR of 172 but was 33(30). Those balls don't come back. And <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCB</a> were short in the end. It is not about the eventual SR.</p>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1645489374447140865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Simon Doull, former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator, also took a jibe at Kohli during the RCB innings. Doull said on-air, "Virat Kohli started off like a train. He was hammering shots. But from 42 to 40 the took 10 balls. He's concerned about his personal milestone. I don’t think there’s room for that in this game anymore. You’ve just got to keep going especially with wickets in hand at that stage. You’ve got to keep going."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-truth-behind-csk-bowler-tushar-deshpandes-rohit-sharmas-wicket-is-easy-remark-581275">FACT-CHECK: Truth behind CSK bowler Tushar Deshpande's 'Rohit Sharma's wicket is easy' remark</a></strong></p>

<p>“Rather than putting the team first... the last little while, that's all that been happening. Rather than looking for boundaries, still so much firepower to come. Hundreds are brilliant, stats are great, but it has to be team first,” Doull added.</p>

<p>In the recent past, Doull has also slammed Pakistan captain and batting sensation Babar Azam for his slow and sluggish knocks. It will be interesting to see if Kohli responds to Doull's criticism or let's his bat doing the talking in RCB's next game, versus Delhi Capitals (DC) at home on Saturday (April 15).</p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) hosted the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in match 15 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition on Monday evening (April 10).

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) hosted the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in match 15 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition on Monday evening (April 10). In a high-scoring thriller, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, Faf du Plessis-led RCB posted a mammoth 212 for 2, riding on fifties from Virat Kohli (61), Faf (79*) and Glenn maxwell (59), but Nicholas Pooran's 62 (19) and Marcus Stoinis' 65 (30) paved the way for Lucknow's one-wicket win on the final ball of the contest. While RCB batters gave their bowlers a big score to defend, former cricketers and experts believe they still fell short of a winning score. Iconic commentator Harsha Bhogle shared a tweet where he wrote, "This game confirms everything we have been talking about strike rates. Kohli 61(44), eventual SR of 139 but got 16(15) at the end. Du Plessis 79(46) eventual SR of 172 but was 33(30). Those balls don't come back. And #RCB were short in the end. It is not about the eventual SR." This game confirms everything we have been talking about strike rates. Kohli 61(44), eventual SR of 139 but got 16(15) at the end. Du Plessis 79(46) eventual SR of 172 but was 33(30). Those balls don't come back. And #RCB were short in the end. It is not about the eventual SR. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) April 10, 2023 × Simon Doull, former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator, also took a jibe at Kohli during the RCB innings. Doull said on-air, "Virat Kohli started off like a train. He was hammering shots. But from 42 to 40 the took 10 balls. He's concerned about his personal milestone. I don’t think there’s room for that in this game anymore. You’ve just got to keep going especially with wickets in hand at that stage. You’ve got to keep going." Also Read: FACT-CHECK: Truth behind CSK bowler Tushar Deshpande's 'Rohit Sharma's wicket is easy' remark “Rather than putting the team first... the last little while, that's all that been happening. Rather than looking for boundaries, still so much firepower to come. Hundreds are brilliant, stats are great, but it has to be team first,” Doull added. In the recent past, Doull has also slammed Pakistan captain and batting sensation Babar Azam for his slow and sluggish knocks. It will be interesting to see if Kohli responds to Doull's criticism or let's his bat doing the talking in RCB's next game, versus Delhi Capitals (DC) at home on Saturday (April 15).

'From 42 to 50...' - After Babar, Doull slams Virat Kohli for being 'concerned about personal milestone'

<p>Afghanistan beat a second-stringed Pakistan by seven wickets in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday (March 26). Opting to bat first at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah, Shadab Khan-led Men in Green only managed 130/6 before&nbsp;Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran's cautious knocks and finishing cameos from Najibullah Zadran and Md Nabi took Afghan line-up home with a ball to spare.</p>

<p>During the game, former cricketers-turned-commentator Simon Doull and Aamer Sohail got involved in a fiery exchange on live tv. The discussion was on Babar Azam, Pakistan's regular captain and best batter across formats. The New Zealander, who has criticised Babar's strike rate in the recent past, suggested that Pakistan skipper should not open the innings in T20Is but Sohail interrupted him and the video of the duo's exchange has gone viral in no time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's the clip:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here’s the video<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvAFG</a> <a href="https://t.co/z2jMGX8rIo">https://t.co/z2jMGX8rIo</a> <a href="https://t.co/PPodATg4Y4">pic.twitter.com/PPodATg4Y4</a></p>
— Sahil (@mysondaniel86is) <a href="https://twitter.com/mysondaniel86is/status/1640032814316830720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-did-my-hiv-test-team-indias-shikhar-dhawan-shares-hilarious-episode-of-when-he-got-his-first-tattoo-576219">I did my HIV Test: Team India's Shikhar Dhawan shares hilarious episode of when he got his first tattoo</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Doull:&nbsp;</strong>Babar Azam is hands down the best No 3 batsman in the world. He should not open for Pakistan. Saim and Haris should open with Rizwan in T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Sohail:&nbsp;</strong>The T20 teams are selected on the basis of averages and not strike rates. The averages are more important than strike rates. I dont care about the strike rate, I look for the average. If you talk about best players in T20I like Chris Gayle and AB De Villiers, what is the strike-rate between 135 and 137?</p>

<p><strong>Doull:</strong>&nbsp;158</p>

<p><strong>Sohail:</strong>&nbsp;Whose?</p>

<p><strong>Doull:</strong>&nbsp;Chris Gayle. AB De Villiers is 145</p>

<p><strong>Sohail:&nbsp;</strong>137 in international cricket.</p>

<p><strong>Doull:</strong>&nbsp;What's Babar's?</p>

<p>To this, Sohail didn't give a clear answer. It is to be noted that AB de Villiers' T20I strike rate is 135.16 in 78 T20I matches. However, the former South African captain boasts&nbsp;a strike rate of a whopping 150.13 in his T20 career;&nbsp; with over 300 games (340). Meanwhile, Chris Gayle had a strike rate of 137.50 in 79 T20Is for West Indies. The Universe Boss, however, struck at 144.75 in 455 T20 innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Babar's T20I strike rate is 127.80 in 94 T20I innings and it goes up by a whisker&nbsp;to&nbsp;128.46 in 246 T20 innings.</p>


Afghanistan beat a second-stringed Pakistan by seven wickets in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday (March 26). Opting to bat first at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah, Shadab Khan-led Men in Green only managed 130/6 before Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran's cautious knocks and finishing cameos from Najibullah Zadran and Md Nabi took Afghan line-up home with a ball to spare.

Afghanistan beat a second-stringed Pakistan by seven wickets in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday (March 26). Opting to bat first at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah, Shadab Khan-led Men in Green only managed 130/6 before Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran's cautious knocks and finishing cameos from Najibullah Zadran and Md Nabi took Afghan line-up home with a ball to spare. During the game, former cricketers-turned-commentator Simon Doull and Aamer Sohail got involved in a fiery exchange on live tv. The discussion was on Babar Azam, Pakistan's regular captain and best batter across formats. The New Zealander, who has criticised Babar's strike rate in the recent past, suggested that Pakistan skipper should not open the innings in T20Is but Sohail interrupted him and the video of the duo's exchange has gone viral in no time. Here's the clip: Here’s the video#PAKvAFG https://t.co/z2jMGX8rIo pic.twitter.com/PPodATg4Y4 — Sahil (@mysondaniel86is) March 26, 2023 × Also Read: I did my HIV Test: Team India's Shikhar Dhawan shares hilarious episode of when he got his first tattoo Doull: Babar Azam is hands down the best No 3 batsman in the world. He should not open for Pakistan. Saim and Haris should open with Rizwan in T20Is. Sohail: The T20 teams are selected on the basis of averages and not strike rates. The averages are more important than strike rates. I dont care about the strike rate, I look for the average. If you talk about best players in T20I like Chris Gayle and AB De Villiers, what is the strike-rate between 135 and 137? Doull: 158 Sohail: Whose? Doull: Chris Gayle. AB De Villiers is 145 Sohail: 137 in international cricket. Doull: What's Babar's? To this, Sohail didn't give a clear answer. It is to be noted that AB de Villiers' T20I strike rate is 135.16 in 78 T20I matches. However, the former South African captain boasts a strike rate of a whopping 150.13 in his T20 career; with over 300 games (340). Meanwhile, Chris Gayle had a strike rate of 137.50 in 79 T20Is for West Indies. The Universe Boss, however, struck at 144.75 in 455 T20 innings. On the other hand, Babar's T20I strike rate is 127.80 in 94 T20I innings and it goes up by a whisker to 128.46 in 246 T20 innings.

Watch: Simon Doull, Aamer Sohail debate over Babar Azam's T20I strike rate on live TV during Afg-Pak tie

<p>After a disappointing run in Tests in 2022, Pakistan have started their 2023 season with the second and final Test versus New Zealand in Karachi. The series opener ended in a draw, where New Zealand got a healthy first-innings lead and dominated the game, whereas the final encounter is also heading towards a draw.</p>

<p>For quite sometime, Pakistan have been poor in Tests and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been strongly criticised for producing poor surfaces, favouring only the batters. It was evident in the Pakistan-Australia series and also the case in the England series. As a result, Pakistan bowlers couldn't impress and their batters fell behind as compared to their counterparts' free-flowing approach. Pakistan lost 1-0 to Australia and suffered their first-ever Test series whitewash with Ben Stokes &amp; Co. hammering them 3-0.</p>

<p>As the New Zealand series has also been a sluggish affair, with pitches being flat as ever, former Kiwi cricketer Simon Doull made a glaring remark. He asked if&nbsp;such pitches are demanded by captain Babar Azam for him&nbsp;to improve his numbers in&nbsp;Tests.</p>

<p>"Where does that directive come from? Does that come from Babar who wants to bat on a road and improve his own stats?" Doull questioned. "Does it come from above him?" the co-commentator responded.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Truth bombs💯🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/zoyXQSbAi5">https://t.co/zoyXQSbAi5</a> <a href="https://t.co/LCuPqARMCJ">pic.twitter.com/LCuPqARMCJ</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-nz-babar-azam-run-out-after-horrible-mix-up-with-imam-ul-haq-on-day-2-of-2nd-test-watch-549116">Pak vs NZ: Babar Azam run-out after horrible mix-up with Imam-ul-Haq on Day 2 of 2nd Test - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the second and final Test, in Karachi, Tim Southee-led NZ opted to bat first and rode on Devon Conway's 122 and their tail-enders to post 449. In reply, Pakistan managed 408 and the Kiwis have now taken the overall lead beyond the 200-run mark towards the close of the fourth and penultimate day's play.</p>

<p>The visitors will look for quick runs in the remainder of Day 4 and bat a few overs on the final day before asking Pakistan to come out and chase a competitive score.&nbsp;At present, a result looks tough on such a surface.</p>


After a disappointing run in Tests in 2022, Pakistan have started their 2023 season with the second and final Test versus New Zealand in Karachi. The series opener ended in a draw, where New Zealand got a healthy first-innings lead and dominated the game, whereas the final encounter is also heading towards a draw.

After a disappointing run in Tests in 2022, Pakistan have started their 2023 season with the second and final Test versus New Zealand in Karachi. The series opener ended in a draw, where New Zealand got a healthy first-innings lead and dominated the game, whereas the final encounter is also heading towards a draw. For quite sometime, Pakistan have been poor in Tests and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been strongly criticised for producing poor surfaces, favouring only the batters. It was evident in the Pakistan-Australia series and also the case in the England series. As a result, Pakistan bowlers couldn't impress and their batters fell behind as compared to their counterparts' free-flowing approach. Pakistan lost 1-0 to Australia and suffered their first-ever Test series whitewash with Ben Stokes & Co. hammering them 3-0. As the New Zealand series has also been a sluggish affair, with pitches being flat as ever, former Kiwi cricketer Simon Doull made a glaring remark. He asked if such pitches are demanded by captain Babar Azam for him to improve his numbers in Tests. "Where does that directive come from? Does that come from Babar who wants to bat on a road and improve his own stats?" Doull questioned. "Does it come from above him?" the co-commentator responded. Truth bombs💯🤣🤣 https://t.co/zoyXQSbAi5 pic.twitter.com/LCuPqARMCJ — Ibrahim (@iBM1105) January 5, 2023 × Also read: Pak vs NZ: Babar Azam run-out after horrible mix-up with Imam-ul-Haq on Day 2 of 2nd Test - Watch Talking about the second and final Test, in Karachi, Tim Southee-led NZ opted to bat first and rode on Devon Conway's 122 and their tail-enders to post 449. In reply, Pakistan managed 408 and the Kiwis have now taken the overall lead beyond the 200-run mark towards the close of the fourth and penultimate day's play. The visitors will look for quick runs in the remainder of Day 4 and bat a few overs on the final day before asking Pakistan to come out and chase a competitive score. At present, a result looks tough on such a surface.

'Does the directive come from Babar Azam?': Simon Doull's glaring remark on Pakistan pitches during 2nd Test

<p>Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has made a bold suggestion to Kane Williamson, urging him to step down as Test captain of the Kiwis to prolong his career. Williamson has not been in the best of forms with the bat recently and has led New Zealand in just two Test matches since the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India last year. Doull wants Williamson to get rid of the extra burden off his shoulders and focus on his batting in the longest format.</p>

<p>Williamson has been one of the best batters to have played for New Zealand and has been leading the side across all three formats since 2016. However, his recent dip in form has raised questions over his longevity as captain of the Test team. While Doull hailed Williamson as one of the best to have played for New Zealand, he suggested he leave Test captaincy.</p>

<p>“I just don’t know about the longevity of Kane Williamson the captain,” Doull told <em>The Guardian</em> ahead of the third Test between England and New Zealand at Headingley, Leeds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He is without doubt the best player we’ve ever produced outside of Sir Richard Hadlee. He is world class and I’d love him to be just the best player we’ve ever seen and if that means giving up the Test captaincy to prolong his career, I think he should."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666">'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>Williamson is currently leading New Zealand in their ongoing three-match Test series against England. The Kiwis have already lost the series after back-to-back defeats in the first two matches at the Lord's and Trent Bridge. Doull believes Williamson should give up captaincy after the third Test and lead New Zealand in just ODIs and T20Is.</p>

<p>“He’s never been a lover of doing the media he’s just not that guy he’s a real cricket guy, he loves the game, studies the game. I just don’t know that he can sustain all three formats. I would rather he was just New Zealand’s one-day and T20 captain,” said the former New Zealand fast bowler.</p>

<p>Doull also backed Tom Latham to be Williamson's successor as the next Test captain of the Black Caps and said it was the easiest time for Williamson to let the transition happen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When you’ve got a really worthy replacement, and Tom Latham is. I think that is the easiest time to transition and walk away from it. New Zealand don’t play another Test until the autumn [after Headingley], so it is not a bad time after the Leeds Test to do it," said Doull.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pacer-hasan-ali-trolled-on-instagram-by-moral-police-after-sharing-pictures-of-his-wife-and-daughter-490622">Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife</a></p>

<p>Williamson has so far led New Zealand in a total of 39 Test matches as captain and has a terrific record with 22 wins and just 9 losses. He is the second-most successful Test captain for the Kiwis after the legendary Stephen Fleming. Under Williamson, New Zealand had won the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship after beating India in the final last year.</p>


Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has made a bold suggestion to Kane Williamson, urging him to step down as Test captain of the Kiwis to prolong his career. Williamson has not been in the best of forms with the bat recently and has led New Zealand in just two Test matches since the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India last year.

Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has made a bold suggestion to Kane Williamson, urging him to step down as Test captain of the Kiwis to prolong his career. Williamson has not been in the best of forms with the bat recently and has led New Zealand in just two Test matches since the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India last year. Doull wants Williamson to get rid of the extra burden off his shoulders and focus on his batting in the longest format. Williamson has been one of the best batters to have played for New Zealand and has been leading the side across all three formats since 2016. However, his recent dip in form has raised questions over his longevity as captain of the Test team. While Doull hailed Williamson as one of the best to have played for New Zealand, he suggested he leave Test captaincy. “I just don’t know about the longevity of Kane Williamson the captain,” Doull told The Guardian ahead of the third Test between England and New Zealand at Headingley, Leeds. “He is without doubt the best player we’ve ever produced outside of Sir Richard Hadlee. He is world class and I’d love him to be just the best player we’ve ever seen and if that means giving up the Test captaincy to prolong his career, I think he should." Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form Williamson is currently leading New Zealand in their ongoing three-match Test series against England. The Kiwis have already lost the series after back-to-back defeats in the first two matches at the Lord's and Trent Bridge. Doull believes Williamson should give up captaincy after the third Test and lead New Zealand in just ODIs and T20Is. “He’s never been a lover of doing the media he’s just not that guy he’s a real cricket guy, he loves the game, studies the game. I just don’t know that he can sustain all three formats. I would rather he was just New Zealand’s one-day and T20 captain,” said the former New Zealand fast bowler. Doull also backed Tom Latham to be Williamson's successor as the next Test captain of the Black Caps and said it was the easiest time for Williamson to let the transition happen. “When you’ve got a really worthy replacement, and Tom Latham is. I think that is the easiest time to transition and walk away from it. New Zealand don’t play another Test until the autumn [after Headingley], so it is not a bad time after the Leeds Test to do it," said Doull. Also Read: Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife Williamson has so far led New Zealand in a total of 39 Test matches as captain and has a terrific record with 22 wins and just 9 losses. He is the second-most successful Test captain for the Kiwis after the legendary Stephen Fleming. Under Williamson, New Zealand had won the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship after beating India in the final last year.

Kane Williamson should give up Test captaincy to prolong his career, says former New Zealand pacer

<p>New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell smashed an unbeaten 72 off 47 balls, guiding his side to reach the final of ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 after defeating England by five wickets in the semi-final. New Zealand chased down their target of 167 with an over to spare on a slow track at Abu Dhabi's Zayed Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Put into to bat first, England posted a competitive target and even controlled the game with the ball as while chasing the target, New Zealand were off to a shaky start and were in trouble at 13-2 and 107-4. However, Mitchell's unbeaten knock and Jimmy Neesham's blistering cameo (11-ball 27) turned the tables around. Mitchell then finished the game with a boundary.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pak-spinner-feels-t20i-retirement-on-cards-for-virat-kohli-says-two-groups-exist-in-team-india-428457">Former Pak spinner feels T20I retirement on cards for Virat Kohli, says 'two groups exist in Team India'</a></strong></p>

<p>The way Mitchell played, reminded former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull of ex-Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who is called one of the&nbsp;best finishers in the limited-overs format - the memorable remained the final of 2011 World Cup when he finished the game for India with a sixer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the commentary, Doull on air said, "The great MS Dhoni, the great finisher once said to me that the longer you bat the deeper you take the game, the more worried is the opposition and its bowlers." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"That is what Daryl Mitchell has done here tonight. He saw the first two New Zealand wickets go down cheaply but ensured he batted through, and here is taking his team closer to a place in the final," Doull added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-shaheen-afridi-enacts-dismissals-of-indias-top-3-virat-kohli-rohit-and-rahul-on-public-demand-428447"><strong>Watch: Shaheen Afridi enacts dismissals of India's top 3 Virat Kohli, Rohit and Rahul on public demand</strong></a></p>

<p>For his match-defining innings, Mitchell won the Player of the Match award. "It was a bit of a whirl at the end there. I couldn't remember what was going on, but I'm happy I got the job done. It was a challenging surface, with the new ball, and it was two-paced," said Mitchell.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The way Conway set the platform and Neesh hit a few out of the ground was amazing. We knew one or two good overs would do it, and we got the momentum back thanks to Neesham's hitting," he added.&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell smashed an unbeaten 72 off 47 balls, guiding his side to reach the final of ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 after defeating England by five wickets in the semi-final.

New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell smashed an unbeaten 72 off 47 balls, guiding his side to reach the final of ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 after defeating England by five wickets in the semi-final. New Zealand chased down their target of 167 with an over to spare on a slow track at Abu Dhabi's Zayed Cricket Stadium. Put into to bat first, England posted a competitive target and even controlled the game with the ball as while chasing the target, New Zealand were off to a shaky start and were in trouble at 13-2 and 107-4. However, Mitchell's unbeaten knock and Jimmy Neesham's blistering cameo (11-ball 27) turned the tables around. Mitchell then finished the game with a boundary. ALSO READ | Former Pak spinner feels T20I retirement on cards for Virat Kohli, says 'two groups exist in Team India' The way Mitchell played, reminded former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull of ex-Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who is called one of the best finishers in the limited-overs format - the memorable remained the final of 2011 World Cup when he finished the game for India with a sixer. During the commentary, Doull on air said, "The great MS Dhoni, the great finisher once said to me that the longer you bat the deeper you take the game, the more worried is the opposition and its bowlers." "That is what Daryl Mitchell has done here tonight. He saw the first two New Zealand wickets go down cheaply but ensured he batted through, and here is taking his team closer to a place in the final," Doull added. ALSO READ | Watch: Shaheen Afridi enacts dismissals of India's top 3 Virat Kohli, Rohit and Rahul on public demand For his match-defining innings, Mitchell won the Player of the Match award. "It was a bit of a whirl at the end there. I couldn't remember what was going on, but I'm happy I got the job done. It was a challenging surface, with the new ball, and it was two-paced," said Mitchell. "The way Conway set the platform and Neesh hit a few out of the ground was amazing. We knew one or two good overs would do it, and we got the momentum back thanks to Neesham's hitting," he added.

T20 World Cup: Daryl Mitchell's scintillating knock reminds ex-New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull of MS Dhoni

<p>Team India's dismal T20 World Cup campaign came to an end on Monday (November 8). Losing their first two matches, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were behind in the race for the semi-finals and eventually lost the battle to New Zealand, who secured the second spot from Pool B (after Pakistan) and ensured India's early exit.</p>

<p>Following India's nine-wicket win over Namibia in their last group stage encounter, on Monday evening (November 8), the former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull reflected on India's campaign. He felt that the scheduling backfired for the national team in the marquee tournament.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/goosebumps-shastri-shares-heartfelt-speech-as-outgoing-coach-post-indias-t20-wc-campaign-watch-427919"><strong>GOOSEBUMPS! Shastri shares heartfelt speech as outgoing coach post India's T20 WC campaign- WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>Doull said on Cricbuzz, "I don't know how to put this kindly, but There was a real air of arrogance around the scheduling and that is what the broadcasters wanted with involvement from the ICC as they wanted India's fixtures around the holidays around Diwali and all that so they wanted those games at peak times."</p>

<p>“Pakistan should have been the first game, but the game against New Zealand should have been the final contest. It should have been India against New Zealand for a place in the semi-final at the end," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-is-more-disappointed-than-us-kohli-pens-down-emotional-note-after-indias-dismal-t20-wc-427901"><strong>'No one is more disappointed than us' - Kohli pens down emotional note after India's dismal T20 WC</strong></a></p>

<p>Opining on the scheduling, India's veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik said, "Everyone expected the contest against Pakistan a walk in the park considering the talent we have. It's a learning curve as well. Can give many reasons, but at the end of the day, India knows they did not play their best cricket.&nbsp;They would have hoped had the final three games been the ones they began with, they could have taken the confidence for the tough games. But, that is the beauty of a tournament like a World Cup, can't pick and choose here."</p>

<p>From Pool B, Pakistan and New Zealand have qualified for the semi-finals whereas England and Australia have made it to the semi-finals from Pool A. The first semi-final will see England and New Zealand lock horns with each other (on November 10) whereas Australia-Pakistan will play the second semi-final (on November 11).</p>


Team India's dismal T20 World Cup campaign came to an end on Monday (November 8). Losing their first two matches, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were behind in the race for the semi-finals and eventually lost the battle to New Zealand, who secured the second spot from Pool B (after Pakistan) and ensured India's early exit.

Team India's dismal T20 World Cup campaign came to an end on Monday (November 8). Losing their first two matches, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were behind in the race for the semi-finals and eventually lost the battle to New Zealand, who secured the second spot from Pool B (after Pakistan) and ensured India's early exit. Following India's nine-wicket win over Namibia in their last group stage encounter, on Monday evening (November 8), the former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull reflected on India's campaign. He felt that the scheduling backfired for the national team in the marquee tournament. ALSO READ | GOOSEBUMPS! Shastri shares heartfelt speech as outgoing coach post India's T20 WC campaign- WATCH Doull said on Cricbuzz, "I don't know how to put this kindly, but There was a real air of arrogance around the scheduling and that is what the broadcasters wanted with involvement from the ICC as they wanted India's fixtures around the holidays around Diwali and all that so they wanted those games at peak times." “Pakistan should have been the first game, but the game against New Zealand should have been the final contest. It should have been India against New Zealand for a place in the semi-final at the end," he added. ALSO READ | 'No one is more disappointed than us' - Kohli pens down emotional note after India's dismal T20 WC Opining on the scheduling, India's veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik said, "Everyone expected the contest against Pakistan a walk in the park considering the talent we have. It's a learning curve as well. Can give many reasons, but at the end of the day, India knows they did not play their best cricket. They would have hoped had the final three games been the ones they began with, they could have taken the confidence for the tough games. But, that is the beauty of a tournament like a World Cup, can't pick and choose here." From Pool B, Pakistan and New Zealand have qualified for the semi-finals whereas England and Australia have made it to the semi-finals from Pool A. The first semi-final will see England and New Zealand lock horns with each other (on November 10) whereas Australia-Pakistan will play the second semi-final (on November 11).

'Air of arrogance around the scheduling' - Simon Doull reflects on Team India's dismal T20 WC campaign

<p>Simon Doull has explained the reasons&nbsp;for the Indian pacers' struggle on Day 3 of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand.</p>

<p>Doull said that Jasprit Bumrah and other Indian bowlers aren't genuine swing bowlers and rely more upon seam movement, hence couldn't match with their rivals in that ability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India got two wickets from 49 overs on Sunday, with Ravichandran Ashwin and Ishant Sharma being the wicket-takers. Both Bumrah and Ishant looked flat with the new ball while Mohammed Shami looked in rhythm&nbsp;as the first change yet was unfortunate on most events.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Doull likewise added that he expected some more seam movement from Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, yet they simply weren't adequately predictable.</p>

<p>In a conversation with Cricbuzz, Simon Doull said: "They are not genuine swing bowlers. We know Jasprit Bumrah can swing the ball, Ishant is more of a swing bowler nowadays, coming round-the-wicket he has that angled wrist with which he takes the ball away from the left-handers, into the right-handers. Mohammed Shami has never really been a genuine swing bowler and he's a seam bowler. That's why they weren't swinging the ball much. I did, however, expected the ball to seam a lot more. Shami and Bumrah at times found it but they probably weren't just consistent enough much like New Zealand weren't yesterday morning."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sanjay-manjrekar-opines-on-rules-over-bad-light-says-it-can-be-bit-more-reasonable-392788" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar opines on rules over bad light, says it can be 'bit more reasonable'</a></strong></p>

<p>New Zealand scored 116 runs at the fall of two wickets Tom Latham and Devon Conway. Captain Kane Williamson is standing firm at the&nbsp;close by experienced batsman Ross Taylor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked whether the absence of match practice influenced India's build-up in the WTC final, Doull said that this rationale was presumably overthinking. He referred to New Zealand's two-match series against England which helped them with match-readiness, adding that he expected something similar from Team India. :</p>

<p>"New Zealand went into the first Test at Lord's against England, they had the very same preparation that India had coming into this Test - intra-squad matches, training, practices - and they looked pretty set and ready to go. Tim Southee bowled beautifully and Devon Conway came off ten days of the net session into a double hundred at Lord's. And I thought India would be exactly the same. I think at times you may overthink it and say, 'Did they have enough preparation?' I think they probably did. I am sure in the last 10-12 days they would have bowled enough deliveries to make sure they were raring to go."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kyle-jamieson-surpasses-r-ashwin-nathan-lyon-with-most-five-wicket-hauls-in-world-test-championship-392787" hreflang="en">Cricket: Kyle Jamieson surpasses R Ashwin, Nathan Lyon with most five-wicket hauls in World Test Championship</a></strong></p>

<p>Simon Doull, nonetheless, additionally conceded that the lack of proper match practice has its own&nbsp;results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's hard, though, when you can't simulate match practice. You try it in these intra-squad games but it just doesn't work. And that's the key - it's the genuinely hard match practice that makes you better and gets you ready for those matchups" - he concluded. &nbsp;</p>


Simon Doull has explained the reasons for the Indian pacers' struggle on Day 3 of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. Doull said that Jasprit Bumrah and other Indian bowlers aren't genuine swing bowlers and rely more upon seam movement, hence couldn't match with their rivals in that ability.

Simon Doull has explained the reasons for the Indian pacers' struggle on Day 3 of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. Doull said that Jasprit Bumrah and other Indian bowlers aren't genuine swing bowlers and rely more upon seam movement, hence couldn't match with their rivals in that ability. India got two wickets from 49 overs on Sunday, with Ravichandran Ashwin and Ishant Sharma being the wicket-takers. Both Bumrah and Ishant looked flat with the new ball while Mohammed Shami looked in rhythm as the first change yet was unfortunate on most events. Doull likewise added that he expected some more seam movement from Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, yet they simply weren't adequately predictable. In a conversation with Cricbuzz, Simon Doull said: "They are not genuine swing bowlers. We know Jasprit Bumrah can swing the ball, Ishant is more of a swing bowler nowadays, coming round-the-wicket he has that angled wrist with which he takes the ball away from the left-handers, into the right-handers. Mohammed Shami has never really been a genuine swing bowler and he's a seam bowler. That's why they weren't swinging the ball much. I did, however, expected the ball to seam a lot more. Shami and Bumrah at times found it but they probably weren't just consistent enough much like New Zealand weren't yesterday morning." ALSO READ: Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar opines on rules over bad light, says it can be 'bit more reasonable' New Zealand scored 116 runs at the fall of two wickets Tom Latham and Devon Conway. Captain Kane Williamson is standing firm at the close by experienced batsman Ross Taylor. When asked whether the absence of match practice influenced India's build-up in the WTC final, Doull said that this rationale was presumably overthinking. He referred to New Zealand's two-match series against England which helped them with match-readiness, adding that he expected something similar from Team India. : "New Zealand went into the first Test at Lord's against England, they had the very same preparation that India had coming into this Test - intra-squad matches, training, practices - and they looked pretty set and ready to go. Tim Southee bowled beautifully and Devon Conway came off ten days of the net session into a double hundred at Lord's. And I thought India would be exactly the same. I think at times you may overthink it and say, 'Did they have enough preparation?' I think they probably did. I am sure in the last 10-12 days they would have bowled enough deliveries to make sure they were raring to go." ALSO READ: Cricket: Kyle Jamieson surpasses R Ashwin, Nathan Lyon with most five-wicket hauls in World Test Championship Simon Doull, nonetheless, additionally conceded that the lack of proper match practice has its own results. "It's hard, though, when you can't simulate match practice. You try it in these intra-squad games but it just doesn't work. And that's the key - it's the genuinely hard match practice that makes you better and gets you ready for those matchups" - he concluded.

WTC Final: Not genuine swing bowlers - Simon Doull explains Indian pacers' struggles

<p>With less than 24 hours to go for the World Test Championship final, photos of the pitch that will be for the match has gone viral on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-wtc-final-weather-predictions-ageas-bowl-pitch-conditions-and-probable-xi-392119" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI</a></p>

<p>Former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull shared the first glimpse of the pitch that will be used in the World Test Championship finals. He took to Twitter and tweeted: "Just 1 more sleep. @ICC WTC final with @BLACKCAPS and @BCCI. No need to mow that I don’t think @DineshKarthik." Doull also shared a photograph of the pitch.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just 1 more sleep. <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> WTC final with <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLACKCAPS</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> . No need to mow that I don’t think <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DineshKarthik</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BringItOn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BringItOn</a> <a href="https://t.co/nnfW9qr5vY">pic.twitter.com/nnfW9qr5vY</a></p>
— Simon Doull (@Sdoull) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sdoull/status/1405465329585770496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The pitch in the picture had a good cover of grass on it and the curators will mow it on the Day 1 of the Test. However, the weather in Southampton will play a crucial role in the match. A sunny day will mean less swing and turn, whereas, overcast conditions will favour the pacers' swing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee said that he is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash.</p>

<p>"Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<p>"For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch.</p>

<p>"It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it."</p>


With less than 24 hours to go for the World Test Championship final, photos of the pitch that will be for the match has gone viral on Twitter. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI Former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull shared the first glimpse of the pitch that will be used in the World Test Championship finals.

With less than 24 hours to go for the World Test Championship final, photos of the pitch that will be for the match has gone viral on Twitter. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI Former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull shared the first glimpse of the pitch that will be used in the World Test Championship finals. He took to Twitter and tweeted: "Just 1 more sleep. @ICC WTC final with @BLACKCAPS and @BCCI. No need to mow that I don’t think @DineshKarthik." Doull also shared a photograph of the pitch. Just 1 more sleep. @ICC WTC final with @BLACKCAPS and @BCCI . No need to mow that I don’t think @DineshKarthik #BringItOn pic.twitter.com/nnfW9qr5vY — Simon Doull (@Sdoull) June 17, 2021 × The pitch in the picture had a good cover of grass on it and the curators will mow it on the Day 1 of the Test. However, the weather in Southampton will play a crucial role in the match. A sunny day will mean less swing and turn, whereas, overcast conditions will favour the pacers' swing. Earlier, Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee said that he is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash. "Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo. "For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch. "It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it."

Cricket: 'Just 1 more sleep': Simon Doull reveals first look of the pitch for WTC final

<p>Sunrisers Hyderabad decided to change their captain midway after a disappointing first half of IPL 2021. The reigns were handed over to Kane Williamson after axing David Warner as the skipper. The Orange Army have won just one of their six games and are at the bottom of the points table.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rajasthan-royals-and-sunrisers-hyderabad-will-lock-antlers-to-circumvent-wooden-spoon-382102" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad will lock antlers to circumvent wooden spoon</a></p>

<p>The decision sparked a debate on social media on whether it was the right decision by the management or not. IPL commentator and former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull also gave his take on the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think there must have been a falling out somewhere along the lines and not with the team, there has to be a falling out with the coaching structure. After what he said in that game about leaving Manish Pandey out, it was not his decision at all, he didn't want to do it clearly. And basically, you passed the buck, you blamed it on someone else and I think he has paid the price for that," said Doull while speaking to Cricbuzz.</p>

<p>"That dynamic... you sack a coach, Tom Moody, you employ Trevor Bayliss and then you bring Tom Moody back to oversee your cricket. I don't know how that relationship can possibly work. And I wonder whether one [win] in 5 (6) is the direct result of that relationship not working... And the press release suggests that he [David Warner] won't even play now that's even more strange," Doull added.</p>

<p>David Warner led Sunrisers to their maiden IPL title in 2016.&nbsp;</p>


Sunrisers Hyderabad decided to change their captain midway after a disappointing first half of IPL 2021. The reigns were handed over to Kane Williamson after axing David Warner as the skipper.

Sunrisers Hyderabad decided to change their captain midway after a disappointing first half of IPL 2021. The reigns were handed over to Kane Williamson after axing David Warner as the skipper. The Orange Army have won just one of their six games and are at the bottom of the points table. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad will lock antlers to circumvent wooden spoon The decision sparked a debate on social media on whether it was the right decision by the management or not. IPL commentator and former Kiwi pacer Simon Doull also gave his take on the matter. "I think there must have been a falling out somewhere along the lines and not with the team, there has to be a falling out with the coaching structure. After what he said in that game about leaving Manish Pandey out, it was not his decision at all, he didn't want to do it clearly. And basically, you passed the buck, you blamed it on someone else and I think he has paid the price for that," said Doull while speaking to Cricbuzz. "That dynamic... you sack a coach, Tom Moody, you employ Trevor Bayliss and then you bring Tom Moody back to oversee your cricket. I don't know how that relationship can possibly work. And I wonder whether one [win] in 5 (6) is the direct result of that relationship not working... And the press release suggests that he [David Warner] won't even play now that's even more strange," Doull added. David Warner led Sunrisers to their maiden IPL title in 2016.

IPL 2021- 'Must have been a falling out': Simon Doull on SRH axing Warner

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7f0f25cf-5941-4853-b916-7924b29e46c6}{38}" paraid="1438528534" >Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs. Conway, who has been hammering runs in the shortest format of the game consistently, was recently overlooked in the IPL 2021 Auction with no franchise picking up the Kiwi batsman.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{06e85001-6b3e-4a6a-81d4-d90d8eb96b8a}{105}" paraid="592573152" >Following, Conway’s blistering knock, India’s Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter as he wrote that his knock came just four days late. Former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator Simon Doull and former England batsman Kevin Pietersen also jumped into the conversation.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4cdbff1f-b98f-4e6e-9668-fc366b08388e}{16}" paraid="1436218069" >While Doull said that New Zealand players have been constantly overlooked for “second rate” Australian cricketers whereas Pietersen said whether Conway is of South African heritage or not. Notably, Pietersen, who played international cricket for England, is of South African heritage.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4cdbff1f-b98f-4e6e-9668-fc366b08388e}{16}" paraid="1436218069" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-james-anderson-gives-his-verdict-on-motera-stadiums-pitch-ahead-of-pink-ball-test-365455" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{00b05a96-99c2-46a3-954f-65e23046fac0}{228}" paraid="766994437" >Conway made his T20I debut vs West Indies in November 2020. While the 29-year-old fell just short of his maiden T20I century, his last five innings have 50+ scores in the shortest format of the game. He has scored&nbsp;99*, 93*, 91*, 69* and 50 in his past five innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{53d8bd5f-abbf-4d44-8e3d-509fc2fbbb20}{247}" paraid="1437710890" >Ashwin wrote:&nbsp;&nbsp;"Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock 👏👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvNZ</a></p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1363755742247804930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Is Devon South African?</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1363832069030350848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, Conway can still be picked by an IPL franchise if they decide to buy a replacement player.&nbsp;</p>


Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs.

Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs. Conway, who has been hammering runs in the shortest format of the game consistently, was recently overlooked in the IPL 2021 Auction with no franchise picking up the Kiwi batsman. Following, Conway’s blistering knock, India’s Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter as he wrote that his knock came just four days late. Former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator Simon Doull and former England batsman Kevin Pietersen also jumped into the conversation. While Doull said that New Zealand players have been constantly overlooked for “second rate” Australian cricketers whereas Pietersen said whether Conway is of South African heritage or not. Notably, Pietersen, who played international cricket for England, is of South African heritage. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test Conway made his T20I debut vs West Indies in November 2020. While the 29-year-old fell just short of his maiden T20I century, his last five innings have 50+ scores in the shortest format of the game. He has scored 99*, 93*, 91*, 69* and 50 in his past five innings. Ashwin wrote: "Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock." Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock 👏👏👏 #AUSvNZ — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) February 22, 2021 × Is Devon South African? — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 22, 2021 × However, Conway can still be picked by an IPL franchise if they decide to buy a replacement player.

R Ashwin, Simon Doull, Kevin Pietersen react after Devon Conway's 99-run knock

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders suffered a humiliating 8-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Match 39 of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">2020 IPL</a>, at Abu Dhabi. Batting first, Kolkata were reduced to 40/6 in the 13th over. They then recovered to 84/8, the lowest score in IPL history by a side without getting bowled out. The wreckers-in-chief were Mohammed Siraj (4-2-8-3), Yuzvendra Chahal (4-0-15-2), and Washington Sundar (4-1-14-1). Bangalore then took their time, reaching the target in the 14th over.</p>

<p>In My11 Circle Cricbuzz Live, Mpumelelo ‘Pommie’ Mbangwa was all in praise of Siraj: “Siraj, into the side [sic], bowl upfront [sic], get it to move [sic], bowl the length that gets it to move[sic], where many a time you’d bowl back of that length, because you don’t want to disappear when you are hit, you are thinking in a defensive fashion rather than in an attacking fashion.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/siraj-gurkeerat-lead-rcbs-eight-wicket-rout-of-kolkata-in-ipl-336981">Siraj, Gurkeerat lead RCB's eight-wicket rout of Kolkata in IPL&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Simon Doull chipped in: “Those numbers were just phenomenal tonight. He was superb. Sometimes on a surface that offers you only a little bit … He just found that length that kissed through nicely, hit the top of off-stump … Perfect length, he bowls with genuine good pace too … He should have been in the side early on in the tournament, just to give him the confidence.”</p>

<p>Siraj becomes the first bowler to bowl two maiden overs in the same IPL match. He had figures of 2-2-0-3 at one point.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-wasnt-a-season-we-expected-but-keep-supporting-csk-bravo-336961" hreflang="en">This wasn't a season we expected, but keep supporting CSK: Bravo</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking of Kolkata’s performance, Doull said: “The little worry for Kolkata is just how they have been fortunate to win games – and fortunate courtesy of a couple of collapses from other teams – they haven’t really found their batting strength … We haven’t seen them consistently put those 180s, 190s on the board and bat really well … Although they are reasonably well-placed on the table … they haven’t batted particularly well in the tournament as a whole.”</p>

<p>“The troubles are not in one area,” said Mbangwa, explaining Kolkata’s performance. “Whether you’re looking at the top of the batting … They don’t know which way they want to the middle order … Their bowling has not really gone that well … It’s just a whole big struggle … There’s a clutter of the minds within the KKR camp. There is searching for what will work, how it’s supposed to work, and so on and so forth.”</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The win took RCB to second place, level with DC on points but behind on net run rate. Kolkata are fourth.</p>


Kolkata Knight Riders suffered a humiliating 8-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Match 39 of the 2020 IPL, at Abu Dhabi. Batting first, Kolkata were reduced to 40/6 in the 13th over.

Kolkata Knight Riders suffered a humiliating 8-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Match 39 of the 2020 IPL, at Abu Dhabi. Batting first, Kolkata were reduced to 40/6 in the 13th over. They then recovered to 84/8, the lowest score in IPL history by a side without getting bowled out. The wreckers-in-chief were Mohammed Siraj (4-2-8-3), Yuzvendra Chahal (4-0-15-2), and Washington Sundar (4-1-14-1). Bangalore then took their time, reaching the target in the 14th over. In My11 Circle Cricbuzz Live, Mpumelelo ‘Pommie’ Mbangwa was all in praise of Siraj: “Siraj, into the side [sic], bowl upfront [sic], get it to move [sic], bowl the length that gets it to move[sic], where many a time you’d bowl back of that length, because you don’t want to disappear when you are hit, you are thinking in a defensive fashion rather than in an attacking fashion.” ALSO READ: Siraj, Gurkeerat lead RCB's eight-wicket rout of Kolkata in IPL Simon Doull chipped in: “Those numbers were just phenomenal tonight. He was superb. Sometimes on a surface that offers you only a little bit … He just found that length that kissed through nicely, hit the top of off-stump … Perfect length, he bowls with genuine good pace too … He should have been in the side early on in the tournament, just to give him the confidence.” Siraj becomes the first bowler to bowl two maiden overs in the same IPL match. He had figures of 2-2-0-3 at one point. ALSO READ: This wasn't a season we expected, but keep supporting CSK: Bravo Speaking of Kolkata’s performance, Doull said: “The little worry for Kolkata is just how they have been fortunate to win games – and fortunate courtesy of a couple of collapses from other teams – they haven’t really found their batting strength … We haven’t seen them consistently put those 180s, 190s on the board and bat really well … Although they are reasonably well-placed on the table … they haven’t batted particularly well in the tournament as a whole.” “The troubles are not in one area,” said Mbangwa, explaining Kolkata’s performance. “Whether you’re looking at the top of the batting … They don’t know which way they want to the middle order … Their bowling has not really gone that well … It’s just a whole big struggle … There’s a clutter of the minds within the KKR camp. There is searching for what will work, how it’s supposed to work, and so on and so forth.” The win took RCB to second place, level with DC on points but behind on net run rate. Kolkata are fourth.

Mohammed Siraj should have been in the side early on in the tournament: Simon Doull

<p>Kolkata turned things around to beat Chennai by 10 runs in Match 21 of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">IPL 2020</a>, at Abu Dhabi. At one point, Chennai needed 78 in the last 10 overs with 9 wickets in hand, but they managed only 20 off the next 5 overs despite losing only 2 wickets, and eventually finished short.</p>

<p>Discussing the outcome in the My11 Circle Cricbuzz Live, Simon Doull summarised that Chennai “had snatched defeat from the jaws of victory;” Gaurav Kapur called the effort a “botched chase;” and Joy Bhattacharjya described the approach as “un-Chennai-like”.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rajasthan-royals-steve-smith-latest-skipper-fined-for-slow-over-rate-333127" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals' Smith latest skipper fined for slow over-rate</a></strong></p>

<p>Kedar Jadhav came out when Chennai needed to score 39 in 21 balls, and was neither able to get the ball away for boundaries nor rotate the strike, taking 12 balls for an unbeaten 7. Bhattacharjya called Jadhav’s outing a “shocker of an innings”, expressing his surprise over Chennai investing INR 78 million in him.</p>

<p>Doull also lauded Kolkata’s approach while fielding: “Their strategy on the field almost seemed to pay off completely. They left [Sunil] Narine, they held him back”. Bhattacharjya questioned the decision to hold Narine back, given his “brilliant track record” against Chennai opener Shane Watson, while lauding Varun Chakravarthy’s courage to toss the ball up to MS Dhoni even in the 17th over. Coming on to bowl as late as in the 12th over, Narine finished with 4-0-31-1. Chakravarthy had 4-0-28-1.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-trivia-top-records-of-thala-ms-dhoni-in-the-tournament-328205" hreflang="en">IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament</a></strong></p>

<p>Doull also had high praise for Kolkata’s use of Andre Russell: “Save him for the back end, just one or two overs … when the side’s under pressure, and he has done the job again”. Kapur mentioned Russell’s ability to shock batsmen with 140-kmph bumpers.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Kolkata were bowled out for 167, with only Rahul Tripathi (81 in 51 balls) scoring more than 17(Second highest score). Kapur called him the “lynchpin” of the Kolkata effort, the only one for Kolkata “who checked in with the bat”. However, Doull pointed out that they should have got about 185, given their rollicking start. After racing to 70/1 in 8 overs, they got only 97 in the last 12.</p>

<p>Bhattacharjya recommended Kolkata opened with Tripathi instead of Narine. He mentioned that Tripathi might not be as successful against genuinely quick bowlers like Kagiso Rabada or Jasprit Bumrah, but then, as he pointed, the same holds for Narine, Kolkata’s other option at the top.</p>

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders registered a 10-run win and moved to the 3rd position as Chennai Super Kings slipped from a winning position in an IPL match in Abu Dhabi.</p>


Kolkata turned things around to beat Chennai by 10 runs in Match 21 of IPL 2020, at Abu Dhabi. At one point, Chennai needed 78 in the last 10 overs with 9 wickets in hand, but they managed only 20 off the next 5 overs despite losing only 2 wickets, and eventually finished short.

Kolkata turned things around to beat Chennai by 10 runs in Match 21 of IPL 2020, at Abu Dhabi. At one point, Chennai needed 78 in the last 10 overs with 9 wickets in hand, but they managed only 20 off the next 5 overs despite losing only 2 wickets, and eventually finished short. Discussing the outcome in the My11 Circle Cricbuzz Live, Simon Doull summarised that Chennai “had snatched defeat from the jaws of victory;” Gaurav Kapur called the effort a “botched chase;” and Joy Bhattacharjya described the approach as “un-Chennai-like”. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals' Smith latest skipper fined for slow over-rate Kedar Jadhav came out when Chennai needed to score 39 in 21 balls, and was neither able to get the ball away for boundaries nor rotate the strike, taking 12 balls for an unbeaten 7. Bhattacharjya called Jadhav’s outing a “shocker of an innings”, expressing his surprise over Chennai investing INR 78 million in him. Doull also lauded Kolkata’s approach while fielding: “Their strategy on the field almost seemed to pay off completely. They left [Sunil] Narine, they held him back”. Bhattacharjya questioned the decision to hold Narine back, given his “brilliant track record” against Chennai opener Shane Watson, while lauding Varun Chakravarthy’s courage to toss the ball up to MS Dhoni even in the 17th over. Coming on to bowl as late as in the 12th over, Narine finished with 4-0-31-1. Chakravarthy had 4-0-28-1. IN PICS | IPL trivia: Top records of 'Thala' MS Dhoni in the tournament Doull also had high praise for Kolkata’s use of Andre Russell: “Save him for the back end, just one or two overs … when the side’s under pressure, and he has done the job again”. Kapur mentioned Russell’s ability to shock batsmen with 140-kmph bumpers. Earlier in the day, Kolkata were bowled out for 167, with only Rahul Tripathi (81 in 51 balls) scoring more than 17(Second highest score). Kapur called him the “lynchpin” of the Kolkata effort, the only one for Kolkata “who checked in with the bat”. However, Doull pointed out that they should have got about 185, given their rollicking start. After racing to 70/1 in 8 overs, they got only 97 in the last 12. Bhattacharjya recommended Kolkata opened with Tripathi instead of Narine. He mentioned that Tripathi might not be as successful against genuinely quick bowlers like Kagiso Rabada or Jasprit Bumrah, but then, as he pointed, the same holds for Narine, Kolkata’s other option at the top. Kolkata Knight Riders registered a 10-run win and moved to the 3rd position as Chennai Super Kings slipped from a winning position in an IPL match in Abu Dhabi.

IPL 2020: Chennai snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, says Simon Doull

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