<p>Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Benzema's superb piece of skill and a deflected Toni Kroos free-kick put Madrid in charge and while Oscar Mingueza pulled one back for Barca, they fell to defeat in what could be Lionel Messi's final appearance in this fixture.</p>

<p>Victory means Real Madrid go level on points with Atletico, with the top three now separated by a single point.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Atletico, without the injured Luis Suarez, face Real Betis on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Real Madrid now own the better head-to-head against both of their rivals while Barcelona and Atletico still have to play each other at Camp Nou in the run-in.</p>

<p>With Atletico stumbling and both Barca and Real Madrid hitting their stride, this game looked set to define, if not the title, then who would become favourites to be crowned champions in May.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The result was a riveting contest at a rain-soaked Alfredo di Stefano stadium - certainly one of the most exciting Clasicos in years - that saw both teams squander numerous chances, several efforts come back off the woodwork and Casemiro sent off in extra time. &nbsp;</p>

<p>With the last play of the game, Barcelona substitute Ilaix Moriba rattled Real Madrid's crossbar.</p>

<p>"We're still in it," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We've lost a game against a team who is also fighting for the league but we have eight game left and we will fight to the end."</p>

<p>Casemiro's red card had also given Messi a free-kick and the chance for a dramatic equaliser but instead the Argentinian made it seven games now without a goal against Real Madrid, with many wondering if his 45th Clasico will be his last.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi might yet turn the tide in the eight games still remaining but there is no doubt Madrid are in the groove after backing up beating Liverpool 3-1 on Tuesday with another crucial victory.</p>

<p>They can finish the job in the Champions League at Anfield next week although Zinedine Zidane admitted afterwards his players are "physically at their limit".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was a difficult game, the first half was ours, but we suffered in the second," said Zidane. "We deserved the victory, because we had a lot of chances to score the third."</p>

<p>A breathless first half began with chances for both sides as Marc-Andre ter Stegen's sloppy clearance almost gave Benzema a clear run at goal before Messi slipped in Jordi Alba but the cross was intercepted by Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Real Madrid's opener came after a superb counter-attack from Barcelona, Messi going down too easily on the edge of the area, with Madrid pouring forward on the break.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fede Valverde powered through midfield and fed wide to Lucas Vazquez, whose cross was expertly flicked inside the near post by Benzema.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The goal shook Barca, who were unable to restrain the speed of Madrid and particularly Vinicius Junior on the break.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vinicius was brought down by Ronald Araujo on the edge of the area and Kroos' free-kick cannoned off the back off Sergino Dest and in, evading the efforts of Alba to head away on the line.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Valverde and Messi both struck the post before half-time, Valverde after another scintillating Madrid counter-attack and Messi from a corner, with Courtois beaten.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Koeman brought Antoine Griezmann on for Dest but as the rain poured down, Madrid poured forward. Kroos and Benzema both could have scored a third and they were punished for failing to capitalise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Griezmann jumped over Alba's cross and as the ball skidded through, Mingueza did well to shin it into the net.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Araujo deflected Vinicius' cross onto his own post and Alba was denied by Courtois. Again, Madrid tore away, again they missed the chance, Vinicius running onto Luka Modric's pass but opting not to shoot, allowing Araujo to clear.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With 20 minutes left, Zidane took off Benzema, Vinicius and Kroos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Referee Gil Manzano had to replace his equipment because of the rain. Messi changed his shirt for a dry one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barcelona wantd a late penalty when Ferland Mendy clipped Martin Braithwaite with his arm but the appeal was optimistic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Casemiro was sent off in the 90th minute for a late challenge on Mingueza, that gave Messi a free-kick on the edge of the area but Courtois saved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Ter Stegen up and almost the last kick of the game, Ilaix rattled the crossbar. Madrid survived.&nbsp;</p>


Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas.

Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas. Benzema's superb piece of skill and a deflected Toni Kroos free-kick put Madrid in charge and while Oscar Mingueza pulled one back for Barca, they fell to defeat in what could be Lionel Messi's final appearance in this fixture. Victory means Real Madrid go level on points with Atletico, with the top three now separated by a single point. Atletico, without the injured Luis Suarez, face Real Betis on Sunday. But Real Madrid now own the better head-to-head against both of their rivals while Barcelona and Atletico still have to play each other at Camp Nou in the run-in. With Atletico stumbling and both Barca and Real Madrid hitting their stride, this game looked set to define, if not the title, then who would become favourites to be crowned champions in May. The result was a riveting contest at a rain-soaked Alfredo di Stefano stadium - certainly one of the most exciting Clasicos in years - that saw both teams squander numerous chances, several efforts come back off the woodwork and Casemiro sent off in extra time. With the last play of the game, Barcelona substitute Ilaix Moriba rattled Real Madrid's crossbar. "We're still in it," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "We've lost a game against a team who is also fighting for the league but we have eight game left and we will fight to the end." Casemiro's red card had also given Messi a free-kick and the chance for a dramatic equaliser but instead the Argentinian made it seven games now without a goal against Real Madrid, with many wondering if his 45th Clasico will be his last. Messi might yet turn the tide in the eight games still remaining but there is no doubt Madrid are in the groove after backing up beating Liverpool 3-1 on Tuesday with another crucial victory. They can finish the job in the Champions League at Anfield next week although Zinedine Zidane admitted afterwards his players are "physically at their limit". "It was a difficult game, the first half was ours, but we suffered in the second," said Zidane. "We deserved the victory, because we had a lot of chances to score the third." A breathless first half began with chances for both sides as Marc-Andre ter Stegen's sloppy clearance almost gave Benzema a clear run at goal before Messi slipped in Jordi Alba but the cross was intercepted by Thibaut Courtois. Real Madrid's opener came after a superb counter-attack from Barcelona, Messi going down too easily on the edge of the area, with Madrid pouring forward on the break. Fede Valverde powered through midfield and fed wide to Lucas Vazquez, whose cross was expertly flicked inside the near post by Benzema. The goal shook Barca, who were unable to restrain the speed of Madrid and particularly Vinicius Junior on the break. Vinicius was brought down by Ronald Araujo on the edge of the area and Kroos' free-kick cannoned off the back off Sergino Dest and in, evading the efforts of Alba to head away on the line. Valverde and Messi both struck the post before half-time, Valverde after another scintillating Madrid counter-attack and Messi from a corner, with Courtois beaten. Koeman brought Antoine Griezmann on for Dest but as the rain poured down, Madrid poured forward. Kroos and Benzema both could have scored a third and they were punished for failing to capitalise. Griezmann jumped over Alba's cross and as the ball skidded through, Mingueza did well to shin it into the net. Araujo deflected Vinicius' cross onto his own post and Alba was denied by Courtois. Again, Madrid tore away, again they missed the chance, Vinicius running onto Luka Modric's pass but opting not to shoot, allowing Araujo to clear. With 20 minutes left, Zidane took off Benzema, Vinicius and Kroos. Referee Gil Manzano had to replace his equipment because of the rain. Messi changed his shirt for a dry one. Barcelona wantd a late penalty when Ferland Mendy clipped Martin Braithwaite with his arm but the appeal was optimistic. Casemiro was sent off in the 90th minute for a late challenge on Mingueza, that gave Messi a free-kick on the edge of the area but Courtois saved. With Ter Stegen up and almost the last kick of the game, Ilaix rattled the crossbar. Madrid survived.

Real Madrid edge thrilling Clasico to go top of La Liga

<p>Newcastle took a big step towards securing their Premier League survival with a vital 2-1 win at Burnley, while Manchester United prepared for a revenge mission against Tottenham on Sunday.</p>

<p>Steve Bruce's side came from behind at Turf Moor to end their seven-game winless run.</p>

<p>Matej Vydra put Burnley ahead in the first half, but Jacob Murphy equalised and Allan Saint-Maximin grabbed the priceless winner.</p>

<p>Fourth bottom Newcastle are now six points clear of the relegation zone and hold a game in hand on third bottom Fulham.</p>

<p>Burnley are seven points above the bottom three, but aren't certain of survival after just one win from their last eight matches.</p>

<p>The hosts took the lead with 18 minutes gone as Ashley Westwood pounced on a poor header from Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark.</p>

<p>Westwood played in Chris Wood and he pulled the ball back from the touchline for Vydra to net from close-range.</p>

<p>But French winger Saint-Maximin turned the game after coming on as a 57th minute substitute.</p>

<p>Saint-Maximin surged down the right flank and drew three defenders towards him before pulling the ball back for Murphy to equalise in the 59th minute.</p>

<p>Five minutes later, Saint-Maximin produced a brilliant individual effort as he ran at the Burnley defence before driving his low shot past Bailey Peacock-Farrell.</p>

<p>Later, Manchester United will try to make amends for their embarrassing 6-1 home defeat against Tottenham in October.</p>

<p>United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was believed to be fighting to save his job after that dismal result, while Tottenham looked to be emerging as potential title challengers.</p>

<p>But United have gradually turned their season around and arrive in north London in second place.</p>

<p>In stark contrast, Tottenham have endured a troubled campaign, slumping down to seventh place and crashing out of the Europa League.</p>

<p>Tottenham haven't completed a league double over United since the 1989-90 season.</p>

<p>West Ham can bolster their unexpected bid to qualify for next season's Champions League if they beat third placed Leicester in Sunday's second match.</p>

<p>David Moyes' side are two points behind fourth placed Chelsea, but a victory would take them above both the Blues and fifth placed Liverpool.</p>

<p>The sixth placed Hammers haven't finished in the top four since 1985-86 when they came third.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Arsenal travel to bottom of the table Sheffield United in Sunday's last match.</p>


Newcastle took a big step towards securing their Premier League survival with a vital 2-1 win at Burnley, while Manchester United prepared for a revenge mission against Tottenham on Sunday.

Newcastle took a big step towards securing their Premier League survival with a vital 2-1 win at Burnley, while Manchester United prepared for a revenge mission against Tottenham on Sunday. Steve Bruce's side came from behind at Turf Moor to end their seven-game winless run. Matej Vydra put Burnley ahead in the first half, but Jacob Murphy equalised and Allan Saint-Maximin grabbed the priceless winner. Fourth bottom Newcastle are now six points clear of the relegation zone and hold a game in hand on third bottom Fulham. Burnley are seven points above the bottom three, but aren't certain of survival after just one win from their last eight matches. The hosts took the lead with 18 minutes gone as Ashley Westwood pounced on a poor header from Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark. Westwood played in Chris Wood and he pulled the ball back from the touchline for Vydra to net from close-range. But French winger Saint-Maximin turned the game after coming on as a 57th minute substitute. Saint-Maximin surged down the right flank and drew three defenders towards him before pulling the ball back for Murphy to equalise in the 59th minute. Five minutes later, Saint-Maximin produced a brilliant individual effort as he ran at the Burnley defence before driving his low shot past Bailey Peacock-Farrell. Later, Manchester United will try to make amends for their embarrassing 6-1 home defeat against Tottenham in October. United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was believed to be fighting to save his job after that dismal result, while Tottenham looked to be emerging as potential title challengers. But United have gradually turned their season around and arrive in north London in second place. In stark contrast, Tottenham have endured a troubled campaign, slumping down to seventh place and crashing out of the Europa League. Tottenham haven't completed a league double over United since the 1989-90 season. West Ham can bolster their unexpected bid to qualify for next season's Champions League if they beat third placed Leicester in Sunday's second match. David Moyes' side are two points behind fourth placed Chelsea, but a victory would take them above both the Blues and fifth placed Liverpool. The sixth placed Hammers haven't finished in the top four since 1985-86 when they came third. Arsenal travel to bottom of the table Sheffield United in Sunday's last match.

Newcastle boost survival bid as Man Utd eye Spurs revenge

<p class="MsoNormal">The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Saturday announced the schedule for the remainder of the postponed Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021, scheduled to be played from June 1. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Board of Governors was provided with a presentation and update on the report of the independent two-person fact-finding panel that was set up by the governing body to review the bio-security protocols and arrangements for PSL 6 and made recommendations on better implementation of a bio-secure bubble for future events. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Board of Governors expressed their disappointments at the shortcomings mentioned in the report. It backed the recommendations towards a zero-tolerance approach towards those who breach COVID-19 SOPs.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-is-like-sachin-tendulkar-virat-kohli-can-follow-him-to-improve-technique-aaqib-javed-376815" hreflang="en">Babar Azam is like Sachin Tendulkar; Virat Kohli can follow him to improve technique: Aaqib Javed</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Furthermore, a mandatory seven-day quarantine has been finalised for all participants will start from May 22. PSL 6 will resume on June 1 with the final scheduled on 20 June.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">All matches will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi with an 8 pm PST start.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">PSL 6 - Complete schedule and fixture list:</h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">1 June: Lahore Qalandars v Islamabad United (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">2 June: Multan Sultans v Karachi Kings (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">3 June: Islamabad United v Quetta Gladiators (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">4 June: Peshawar Zalmi v Lahore Qalandars (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">5 June: Islamabad United v Karachi Kings (D); Multan Sultans v Quetta Gladiators (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">6 June: Peshawar Zalmi v Karachi Kings (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">7 June: Quetta Gladiators v Lahore Qalandars (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">8 June: Multan Sultans v Peshawar Zalmi (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">9 June: Islamabad United v Lahore Qalandars (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">10 June: Quetta Gladiators v Karachi Kings (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">11 June: Multan Sultans v Islamabad United (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">12 June: Quetta Gladiators v Peshawar Zalmi (D); Karachi Kings v Lahore Qalandars (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">13 June: Islamabad United v Peshawar Zalmi (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">14 June: Multan Sultans v Lahore Qalandars (N)</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">16 June: Qualifier (1 v 2) (N)<o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>17 June: Eliminator 1 (3 v 4) (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">18 June: Eliminator 2 (loser Qualifier v winner Eliminator 1) (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal"><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>20 June: Final (N)<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>


The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Saturday announced the schedule for the remainder of the postponed Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021, scheduled to be played from June 1.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Saturday announced the schedule for the remainder of the postponed Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021, scheduled to be played from June 1. The Board of Governors was provided with a presentation and update on the report of the independent two-person fact-finding panel that was set up by the governing body to review the bio-security protocols and arrangements for PSL 6 and made recommendations on better implementation of a bio-secure bubble for future events. The Board of Governors expressed their disappointments at the shortcomings mentioned in the report. It backed the recommendations towards a zero-tolerance approach towards those who breach COVID-19 SOPs. ALSO READ: Babar Azam is like Sachin Tendulkar; Virat Kohli can follow him to improve technique: Aaqib Javed Furthermore, a mandatory seven-day quarantine has been finalised for all participants will start from May 22. PSL 6 will resume on June 1 with the final scheduled on 20 June. All matches will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi with an 8 pm PST start. PSL 6 - Complete schedule and fixture list: 1 June: Lahore Qalandars v Islamabad United (N) 2 June: Multan Sultans v Karachi Kings (N) 3 June: Islamabad United v Quetta Gladiators (N) 4 June: Peshawar Zalmi v Lahore Qalandars (N) 5 June: Islamabad United v Karachi Kings (D); Multan Sultans v Quetta Gladiators (N) 6 June: Peshawar Zalmi v Karachi Kings (N) 7 June: Quetta Gladiators v Lahore Qalandars (N) 8 June: Multan Sultans v Peshawar Zalmi (N) 9 June: Islamabad United v Lahore Qalandars (N) 10 June: Quetta Gladiators v Karachi Kings (N) 11 June: Multan Sultans v Islamabad United (N) 12 June: Quetta Gladiators v Peshawar Zalmi (D); Karachi Kings v Lahore Qalandars (N) 13 June: Islamabad United v Peshawar Zalmi (N) 14 June: Multan Sultans v Lahore Qalandars (N) 16 June: Qualifier (1 v 2) (N) 17 June: Eliminator 1 (3 v 4) (N) 18 June: Eliminator 2 (loser Qualifier v winner Eliminator 1) (N) 20 June: Final (N)

PSL 6: Complete schedule, venue details and all you need to know

<p class="MsoNormal">As Rajasthan Royals (RR) gear up to play the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener against Punjab Kings on Monday, wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler has said that he wishes to break the record of most sixes in an IPL match.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The record of most sixes in an IPL match stands with Chris Gayle, who smashed 17 sixes against Pune Warriors in 2013 when he was with Royal Challengers Bangalore at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Gayle had hammered 175 not-out in that knock. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Jos Buttler was asked a few questions regarding the IPL 2021. One of which was “Which IPL record would you like to break?”</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-records-srh-captain-david-warner-can-achieve-in-ipl-2021-376840" hreflang="en">List of records SRH captain David Warner can achieve in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Most sixes in a match,” Jos Buttler replied.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While Buttler is regarded as one of the most dangerous batsmen in white-ball cricket, hitting 17 sixes in an IPL match is a challenge that should sit well with the England batsman. However, the most sixes Buttler has hit in an IPL innings is seven during his 89-run knock against Chennai Super Kings in 2019.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Buttler is likely to open for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2021 and with smaller grounds in India, he would look to achieve the record if he gets it going from the word go.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-are-some-major-records-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-can-shatter-in-ipl-2021-376648" hreflang="en">Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The swashbuckling batsman said that “variety” is the strength of the Rajasthan Royals.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Royals would be looking to win the trophy for the first time since IPL 2008 and with Sanju Samson set to lead the side, the Rajasthan outfit would be looking for a fresh start with new ideas. They have Kumar Sangakkara on board as the Director of Cricket.<o:p></o:p></p>


As Rajasthan Royals (RR) gear up to play the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener against Punjab Kings on Monday, wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler has said that he wishes to break the record of most sixes in an IPL match.

As Rajasthan Royals (RR) gear up to play the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 opener against Punjab Kings on Monday, wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler has said that he wishes to break the record of most sixes in an IPL match. The record of most sixes in an IPL match stands with Chris Gayle, who smashed 17 sixes against Pune Warriors in 2013 when he was with Royal Challengers Bangalore at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Gayle had hammered 175 not-out in that knock. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Jos Buttler was asked a few questions regarding the IPL 2021. One of which was “Which IPL record would you like to break?” ALSO READ: List of records SRH captain David Warner can achieve in IPL 2021 “Most sixes in a match,” Jos Buttler replied. While Buttler is regarded as one of the most dangerous batsmen in white-ball cricket, hitting 17 sixes in an IPL match is a challenge that should sit well with the England batsman. However, the most sixes Buttler has hit in an IPL innings is seven during his 89-run knock against Chennai Super Kings in 2019. Buttler is likely to open for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2021 and with smaller grounds in India, he would look to achieve the record if he gets it going from the word go. ALSO READ: Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021 The swashbuckling batsman said that “variety” is the strength of the Rajasthan Royals. Royals would be looking to win the trophy for the first time since IPL 2008 and with Sanju Samson set to lead the side, the Rajasthan outfit would be looking for a fresh start with new ideas. They have Kumar Sangakkara on board as the Director of Cricket.

Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler reveals one record he wishes to break in IPL

<p class="MsoNormal">Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib al Hasan is all set to wear the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kkr-team-preview-kolkata-look-to-find-old-glory-under-morgans-leadership-376676">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)</a> colours again after the franchise signed him up for INR 3.2 crore at the auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Ahead of KKR’s IPL 2021 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad, skipper Eoin Morgan opened up about the role of Shakib in the 14th&nbsp;edition of the T20 tournament. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Shakib, who was part of KKR for six years from 2011 to 2017, missed out on previous edition of IPL due to a ban imposed on him by the ICC. Before that, Shakib was with SRH in 2018 and 2019.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The southpaw is expected to be a crucial member of KKR in IPL 2021 with his left-arm spin and quality batting providing balance to the XI.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-is-like-sachin-tendulkar-virat-kohli-can-follow-him-to-improve-technique-aaqib-javed-376815" hreflang="en">Babar Azam is like Sachin Tendulkar; Virat Kohli can follow him to improve technique: Aaqib Javed</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Given that we have a bit more travel this year and we go from venue to venue, it's important to have strength and depth in the squad. Shakib Al Hasan gives us a different dynamic in the team," Morgan told KKR's official website.</p>

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<p>"Given that we play at different venues where the conditions change quite a lot, you have a spin-bowling all-rounder who had success in international cricket and IPL at different stages," he added.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“If called upon, he can definitely deliver.” <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The KKR skipper further backed veteran Sunil Narine to play an integral role and have another successful season with the Kolkata outfit while comparing his qualities with Shakib.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916" hreflang="en">List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Shakib and Sunil Narine are no different. In big moments of the game, particularly last year, you would throw Sunil the ball, or you would get him in with the bat because he has been in that situation over and over again.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"He believes in himself and in the team to go and get through and win that situation," he signed off.<o:p></o:p></p>


Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib al Hasan is all set to wear the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) colours again after the franchise signed him up for INR 3.2 crore at the auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib al Hasan is all set to wear the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) colours again after the franchise signed him up for INR 3.2 crore at the auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Ahead of KKR’s IPL 2021 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad, skipper Eoin Morgan opened up about the role of Shakib in the 14th edition of the T20 tournament. Shakib, who was part of KKR for six years from 2011 to 2017, missed out on previous edition of IPL due to a ban imposed on him by the ICC. Before that, Shakib was with SRH in 2018 and 2019. The southpaw is expected to be a crucial member of KKR in IPL 2021 with his left-arm spin and quality batting providing balance to the XI. ALSO READ; Babar Azam is like Sachin Tendulkar; Virat Kohli can follow him to improve technique: Aaqib Javed "Given that we have a bit more travel this year and we go from venue to venue, it's important to have strength and depth in the squad. Shakib Al Hasan gives us a different dynamic in the team," Morgan told KKR's official website. Gunning for number 1⃣3⃣ against tonight's opponents 💪🏼#SRHvKKR #KKRHaiTaiyaar #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/bWA87pweuK — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) April 11, 2021 × "Given that we play at different venues where the conditions change quite a lot, you have a spin-bowling all-rounder who had success in international cricket and IPL at different stages," he added. “If called upon, he can definitely deliver.” The KKR skipper further backed veteran Sunil Narine to play an integral role and have another successful season with the Kolkata outfit while comparing his qualities with Shakib. ALSO READ: List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 "Shakib and Sunil Narine are no different. In big moments of the game, particularly last year, you would throw Sunil the ball, or you would get him in with the bat because he has been in that situation over and over again. "He believes in himself and in the team to go and get through and win that situation," he signed off.

He can definitely deliver: Eoin Morgan banking on star all-rounder to have quality IPL 2021

<p class="MsoNormal">Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has said that Indian captain Virat Kohli can improve his batting technique by closely following Pakistan batsman Babar Azam. Javed, who is the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) side Lahore Qalandars, compared Babar to Sachin Tendulkar as he said the former doesn’t have many weak areas just like the Master Blaster.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span>While Javed said Kohli has a better range of shots as compared to Babar, he lacks the correct technique against swing bowlers.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Virat Kohli has a better range [of shots] as compared to Babar Azam but he also has one area of weakness. If the ball swings, he tends to get trapped around the off-stump such as against [James] Anderson in England,” said Javed in an interview with Cricket Pakistan.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a></strong><o:p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“When you look at Babar, you don’t see any weak areas. Just like, [Sachin] Tendulkar who also didn’t have any weak areas. Babar is technically more safe and sound but if he follows Kohli’s fitness routine he will become an even better player. Meanwhile, Kohli can improve his t9echnique by looking at Babar so that he doesn’t get trapped,” he added. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Interestingly, this is the same Virat Kohli, who has scored 70 international centuries with the same technique and has been one of the faces of the Indian batting unit for a decade. No wonder social media is having a crack over Javed's latest comments.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-recalls-rahul-dravid-getting-angry-with-ms-dhoni-376774" hreflang="en">Virender Sehwag recalls Rahul Dravid getting angry with MS Dhoni</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Javed went on to heap praise on Babar for being the mainstay of Pakistan batting line-up over the past couple of years. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“During the past two or three years, Babar Azam is 50 per cent of Pakistan’s batting. I never thought that he would be this consistent and even go past Virat Kohli [in ODI rankings]. Pakistan is very lucky, he came when the team was struggling and has single-handedly put the team on the right track. Even, captaincy hasn’t affected his form,” he concluded.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p>


Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has said that Indian captain Virat Kohli can improve his batting technique by closely following Pakistan batsman Babar Azam. Javed, who is the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) side Lahore Qalandars, compared Babar to Sachin Tendulkar as he said the former doesn’t have many weak areas just like the Master Blaster.

Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed has said that Indian captain Virat Kohli can improve his batting technique by closely following Pakistan batsman Babar Azam. Javed, who is the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) side Lahore Qalandars, compared Babar to Sachin Tendulkar as he said the former doesn’t have many weak areas just like the Master Blaster. While Javed said Kohli has a better range of shots as compared to Babar, he lacks the correct technique against swing bowlers. “Virat Kohli has a better range [of shots] as compared to Babar Azam but he also has one area of weakness. If the ball swings, he tends to get trapped around the off-stump such as against [James] Anderson in England,” said Javed in an interview with Cricket Pakistan. IN PICS | From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 “When you look at Babar, you don’t see any weak areas. Just like, [Sachin] Tendulkar who also didn’t have any weak areas. Babar is technically more safe and sound but if he follows Kohli’s fitness routine he will become an even better player. Meanwhile, Kohli can improve his t9echnique by looking at Babar so that he doesn’t get trapped,” he added. Interestingly, this is the same Virat Kohli, who has scored 70 international centuries with the same technique and has been one of the faces of the Indian batting unit for a decade. No wonder social media is having a crack over Javed's latest comments. ALSO READ: Virender Sehwag recalls Rahul Dravid getting angry with MS Dhoni Javed went on to heap praise on Babar for being the mainstay of Pakistan batting line-up over the past couple of years. “During the past two or three years, Babar Azam is 50 per cent of Pakistan’s batting. I never thought that he would be this consistent and even go past Virat Kohli [in ODI rankings]. Pakistan is very lucky, he came when the team was struggling and has single-handedly put the team on the right track. Even, captaincy hasn’t affected his form,” he concluded.

Babar Azam is like Sachin Tendulkar; Virat Kohli can follow him to improve technique: Aaqib Javed

<p class="MsoNormal">Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has revealed an incident where he witnessed Rahul Dravid get angry in real life after he yelled at MS Dhoni for getting out by playing a loose shot against Pakistan. Recently, Dravid’s ‘angry’ side has been the talk of the town after the former Indian batsman was seen in an advertisement. In the ad, the 48-year-old can be seen, shouting, breaking glasses and throwing coffee.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Recalling the incident where Dravid got angry in real life, Sehwag went down the memory lane. Sehwag said during one of India’s tours of Pakistan, Dravid lashed out at Dhoni for getting dismissed by a loose stroke while revealing how the incident caught Dhoni by surprise and it was evident when he came out to bat in the next match. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“I have seen Rahul Dravid get angry. When we were in Pakistan and MS Dhoni had been a newcomer, he played a shot and got caught at point. Dravid was very angry with MS Dhoni. ‘That’s the way you play? You should finish the game.’ I was myself taken aback by the storm of English from Dravid, I didn’t understand half of it,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indiranagarkagunda-rahul-dravids-angry-avatar-takes-twitter-by-storm-check-best-reactions-376624" hreflang="en">#IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“But when MS Dhoni next came in to bat, I could see he was not hitting shots much. I went and asked him what was wrong. He said he did not want to be scolded by Dravid again. ‘I will finish the game quietly and go back,’ Dhoni said,” he added.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dravid’s never-before-seen ‘angry’ avatar caught everyone by surprise and the advertisement has been one of the trending topics in India. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“It was very nice to see the feedback, that somewhere we’ve communicated the dark side of Rahul Dravid that doesn’t even exist!” Ayappa KM, who directed the commercial, told the Indian Express.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-fined-after-csks-ipl-2021-opener-versus-delhi-capitals-376768" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni fined after CSK's IPL 2021 opener versus Delhi Capitals</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Dravid remains one of the legends of the game having played 164 Tests, 344 ODIs and one T20I, and scoring 13288, 10889 and 31 runs respectively.<o:p></o:p></p>


Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has revealed an incident where he witnessed Rahul Dravid get angry in real life after he yelled at MS Dhoni for getting out by playing a loose shot against Pakistan.

Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has revealed an incident where he witnessed Rahul Dravid get angry in real life after he yelled at MS Dhoni for getting out by playing a loose shot against Pakistan. Recently, Dravid’s ‘angry’ side has been the talk of the town after the former Indian batsman was seen in an advertisement. In the ad, the 48-year-old can be seen, shouting, breaking glasses and throwing coffee. Recalling the incident where Dravid got angry in real life, Sehwag went down the memory lane. Sehwag said during one of India’s tours of Pakistan, Dravid lashed out at Dhoni for getting dismissed by a loose stroke while revealing how the incident caught Dhoni by surprise and it was evident when he came out to bat in the next match. “I have seen Rahul Dravid get angry. When we were in Pakistan and MS Dhoni had been a newcomer, he played a shot and got caught at point. Dravid was very angry with MS Dhoni. ‘That’s the way you play? You should finish the game.’ I was myself taken aback by the storm of English from Dravid, I didn’t understand half of it,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz. TRENDING: #IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions “But when MS Dhoni next came in to bat, I could see he was not hitting shots much. I went and asked him what was wrong. He said he did not want to be scolded by Dravid again. ‘I will finish the game quietly and go back,’ Dhoni said,” he added. Dravid’s never-before-seen ‘angry’ avatar caught everyone by surprise and the advertisement has been one of the trending topics in India. “It was very nice to see the feedback, that somewhere we’ve communicated the dark side of Rahul Dravid that doesn’t even exist!” Ayappa KM, who directed the commercial, told the Indian Express. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni fined after CSK's IPL 2021 opener versus Delhi Capitals Dravid remains one of the legends of the game having played 164 Tests, 344 ODIs and one T20I, and scoring 13288, 10889 and 31 runs respectively.

Virender Sehwag recalls Rahul Dravid getting angry with MS Dhoni

<p>The Delhi Capitals got off to a fantastic start in the IPL 2021 with a seven-wicket win over the Chennai Super Kings in Mumbai at the&nbsp;Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. Delhi Capitals' opening batsman&nbsp;Prithvi Shaw was in the thick of things as he blasted his way to a 38-ball 72-run innings, helping his team chase down a target of 189 runs with 8 balls to spare.</p>

<p>"Very happy with the way I batted. Everyone executed whatever we practiced in the last few days. It was brilliant to see everyone contributing to the team. The opening stand which we got was very crucial for us. Chasing 190 odd is not easy without a good start. It was a great win for us; however, I should've stayed in the middle until the end. So, if I have to rate my innings out of 10, I will give an 8 to myself," said Shaw.</p>

<p>The 21-year-old, who scored a whopping 827 runs in 8 matches in the&nbsp;Vijay Hazare Trophy, spoke about how he got back into form before the IPL 2021, "I made some small changes in my batting before the IPL. I just wanted to minimize all the mistakes I was making, and I worked hard. I practiced for two weeks with Strength &amp; Conditioning Coach Rajinikanth Sivagnanam sir&nbsp;and Pravin Amre sir before the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Then I just played my natural game with a few changes in the Vijay Hazare Trophy."</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-dhawan-and-shaw-star-as-delhi-capitals-beat-chennai-super-kings-376734" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Dhawan and Shaw star as Delhi Capitals beat Chennai Super Kings</a></strong></p>

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<p>When asked about the newly appointed skipper&nbsp;Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Shaw said, "We really miss Shreyas Iyer, and he led the team very well. However, Rishabh Pant is very smart. He is fearless and enjoys the game. He's very entertaining on the field and is very cool and calm as a Captain. He's doing a fantastic job for the team."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-two-key-overseas-bowlers-to-miss-csks-next-match-confirms-stephen-fleming-376782" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Two key overseas bowlers to miss CSK's next match, confirms Stephen Fleming</a></strong></p>

<p>The opening batsman expressed that he worked out his technical errors with&nbsp;Rajinikanth Sivagnanam and Pravin Amre and speaks to the Delhi Capitals Head Coach&nbsp;Ricky Ponting more about tactics as a batsman, "With Ricky, I generally speak to him about tactics and strategies as a batsman. He has played so much of cricket and he has got the experience which he can share with us and he does especially with the youngsters. I am really enjoying working with him."</p>

<p>Shaw, who was very happy with the team's performance in their first match of the season, had a special message for the Delhi Capitals fans, "All the fans have given us so much of love. The fans were still caring for me even when I wasn't doing well before the Vijay Hazare Trophy so I would like to thank everyone and ask them to keep supporting me and the Delhi team for this IPL."</p>


The Delhi Capitals got off to a fantastic start in the IPL 2021 with a seven-wicket win over the Chennai Super Kings in Mumbai at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.

The Delhi Capitals got off to a fantastic start in the IPL 2021 with a seven-wicket win over the Chennai Super Kings in Mumbai at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. Delhi Capitals' opening batsman Prithvi Shaw was in the thick of things as he blasted his way to a 38-ball 72-run innings, helping his team chase down a target of 189 runs with 8 balls to spare. "Very happy with the way I batted. Everyone executed whatever we practiced in the last few days. It was brilliant to see everyone contributing to the team. The opening stand which we got was very crucial for us. Chasing 190 odd is not easy without a good start. It was a great win for us; however, I should've stayed in the middle until the end. So, if I have to rate my innings out of 10, I will give an 8 to myself," said Shaw. The 21-year-old, who scored a whopping 827 runs in 8 matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, spoke about how he got back into form before the IPL 2021, "I made some small changes in my batting before the IPL. I just wanted to minimize all the mistakes I was making, and I worked hard. I practiced for two weeks with Strength & Conditioning Coach Rajinikanth Sivagnanam sir and Pravin Amre sir before the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Then I just played my natural game with a few changes in the Vijay Hazare Trophy." IN PICS | IPL 2021- Dhawan and Shaw star as Delhi Capitals beat Chennai Super Kings × When asked about the newly appointed skipper Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Shaw said, "We really miss Shreyas Iyer, and he led the team very well. However, Rishabh Pant is very smart. He is fearless and enjoys the game. He's very entertaining on the field and is very cool and calm as a Captain. He's doing a fantastic job for the team." ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Two key overseas bowlers to miss CSK's next match, confirms Stephen Fleming The opening batsman expressed that he worked out his technical errors with Rajinikanth Sivagnanam and Pravin Amre and speaks to the Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting more about tactics as a batsman, "With Ricky, I generally speak to him about tactics and strategies as a batsman. He has played so much of cricket and he has got the experience which he can share with us and he does especially with the youngsters. I am really enjoying working with him." Shaw, who was very happy with the team's performance in their first match of the season, had a special message for the Delhi Capitals fans, "All the fans have given us so much of love. The fans were still caring for me even when I wasn't doing well before the Vijay Hazare Trophy so I would like to thank everyone and ask them to keep supporting me and the Delhi team for this IPL."

IPL 2021: 'Made some small changes...' - Prithvi Shaw opens up about returning to form

<p class="MsoNormal">Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad as both teams start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 journey at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">MA Chidambaram in Chennai hosted the IPL 2021 opener between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians with the Virat Kohli-led outfit emerging victorious by two wickets. However, given it is a fresh pitch in Chennai, the pacers were in the game more than the spinners on Friday and the same is expected on Sunday.</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-two-key-overseas-bowlers-to-miss-csks-next-match-confirms-stephen-fleming-376782" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Two key overseas bowlers to miss CSK's next match, confirms Stephen Fleming</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Ahead of the KKR vs SRH, IPL 2021 match, here are some stats you need to know from the previous IPL matches played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.<o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">T20 matches played: 83<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Matches won by teams batting first: 47<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Matches won by teams batting second: 34<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Highest 1st innings score: 246/5 - Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, 2010<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Lowest 1st innings score: 70 - Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Chennai Super Kings, 2019<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Highest successful run chase: 208/5 - Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2012<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Average 1st innings score: 160</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-recalls-rahul-dravid-getting-angry-at-ms-dhoni-376774" hreflang="en">Virender Sehwag recalls Rahul Dravid getting angry at MS Dhoni</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">SRH vs KKR, IPL 2021 match in Chennai: Weather forecast</h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">There are no chances of rain on Sunday during KKR vs SRH match in IPL 2021 with the temperatures expected to hover around 32 degrees Celcius.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">SRH vs KKR stats at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai</h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">SRH and KKR will be locking horns at the MA Chidambaram Stadium for the first time in IPL history. However, SRH and KKR last played at the venue in IPL 2019. CSK defeated both SRH and KKR in IPL 2019.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While KKR could manage to score just 108/9 in 20 overs, SRH posted 175/3 against the three-time IPL winners. CSK defeated KKR by seven wickets while Shane Watson’s blistering 53-ball 96-run knock helped his team seal a win against SRH.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Given it will be the first match for SRH and KKR in IPL 2020, all eyes will be on the team combination of both teams.<o:p></o:p></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad as both teams start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 journey at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday.

Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad as both teams start their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 journey at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. MA Chidambaram in Chennai hosted the IPL 2021 opener between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians with the Virat Kohli-led outfit emerging victorious by two wickets. However, given it is a fresh pitch in Chennai, the pacers were in the game more than the spinners on Friday and the same is expected on Sunday. × ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Two key overseas bowlers to miss CSK's next match, confirms Stephen Fleming Ahead of the KKR vs SRH, IPL 2021 match, here are some stats you need to know from the previous IPL matches played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. T20 matches played: 83 Matches won by teams batting first: 47 Matches won by teams batting second: 34 Highest 1st innings score: 246/5 - Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, 2010 Lowest 1st innings score: 70 - Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Chennai Super Kings, 2019 Highest successful run chase: 208/5 - Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2012 Average 1st innings score: 160 ALSO READ: Virender Sehwag recalls Rahul Dravid getting angry at MS Dhoni SRH vs KKR, IPL 2021 match in Chennai: Weather forecast There are no chances of rain on Sunday during KKR vs SRH match in IPL 2021 with the temperatures expected to hover around 32 degrees Celcius. SRH vs KKR stats at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai SRH and KKR will be locking horns at the MA Chidambaram Stadium for the first time in IPL history. However, SRH and KKR last played at the venue in IPL 2019. CSK defeated both SRH and KKR in IPL 2019. While KKR could manage to score just 108/9 in 20 overs, SRH posted 175/3 against the three-time IPL winners. CSK defeated KKR by seven wickets while Shane Watson’s blistering 53-ball 96-run knock helped his team seal a win against SRH. Given it will be the first match for SRH and KKR in IPL 2020, all eyes will be on the team combination of both teams.

SRH vs KKR, IPL 2021: MA Chidambaram Stadium pitch report, venue stats, Chennai weather forecast - All you need to know

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli was full of praises for his team-mates, especially Harshal Patel and Glenn Maxwell, as the Bengaluru outfit got off to a rollicking start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) by two wickets in Chennai on Friday.</p>

<p>RCB roped in Maxwell at the auction for a whopping INR 14.25 crore despite the Aussie having a torrid IPL 2020 with Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). However, Maxwell answered his critics in style while showing why the RCB management was spot on to spend heavily for his acquisition.</p>

<p>After the IPL 2021 season opener against MI, RCB captain Kohli said that Maxwell’s knock of 39 runs off 28 deliveries was the game-changer as he put the pressure back on the bowlers. Kohli revealed that RCB wanted to allow Maxwell to play a few deliveries before bringing his array of shots into the game rather than slogging from the word go while adding it was important to play the strongest side in the tournament (MI) and test themselves against the best.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-game-could-be-my-last-chris-lynn-on-running-out-captain-rohit-sharma-in-ipl-2021-opener-376596" hreflang="en">First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener</a></strong></p>

<p>“We won the first match last year as well that we played. It was important to play against the strongest side in the competition and test our side. Everyone was involved in this game, and when you win by two wickets, it means that everyone has gone in and played. A lot of options for me as well that helped bringing the game back. The pitch was looking decent in the first half, but to be honest, with the old ball the length ball was difficult to get away. That is why those partnerships between Maxi and me and then between AB and Maxi was really important. It's not a pitch where you can just hit through the line. You have to be smart with picking the gaps and running hard. Playing in Chennai you have to be respectful of that. The shot that Pollard got out to, in Wankhde it would've sailed into the crowds,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation on Friday.</p>

<p>“We came back well and used the conditions well. They came back well too after losing Rohit early and those last six overs for us were probably the best six we've ever had. We brought Harshal in a trade from Delhi. He is relishing the responsibility and is clear with his plans. He was the difference today. He is going to be our death bowler. As a captain you want players with clarity, and he has that. Jamieson started off well, Yuzi was good, Siraj was good too. In T20 cricket, clarity at the top of your mark is all you as for as a captain. Harshal was very clear with that and it was his day today.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-harshal-patel-and-abd-shine-as-rcb-beat-mumbai-indians-in-season-opener-376541" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Harshal Patel and ABD shine as RCB beat Mumbai Indians in season opener</a></strong></p>

<p>“We wanted Maxi to bat at four. Rajat is a very solid player. He is an exciting player, plays spin well too. The thinking was that we wanted to give Maxi some balls at the start and not get him slogging right away. You saw the result today of him playing 10-15 balls. His innings was the game-changer. Had he stayed in we would've finished a couple of overs earlier. The opposition then gets nervous about AB. We have depth in the batting which we want to utilize. AB is probably the only one in the team who is so versatile. And he does it on slow wickets what not many can do. In a tricky chase you need experience at the back, and the opposition knows that if he doesn't get out, the bowlers get in a different headspace,” the RCB skipper added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Harshal Patel Press Conference | MI v RCB<br />
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Man of the Match for RCB, <a href="https://twitter.com/HarshalPatel23?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarshalPatel23</a> gives us insights into his bowling after a brilliant performance against MI in the first match of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> in Chennai.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvRCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/VaRWykTbRe">pic.twitter.com/VaRWykTbRe</a></p>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1380709619429998592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While AB de Villiers stole the thunders with his terrific knock of 48 off 27 balls, it was Maxwell and Kohli who set the stage for the middle-order batters to finish the game for RCB. While Kohli scored 33 off 29, Maxwell posted 39 off 28.</p>

<p>Earlier, Harshal Patel picked up five wickets and became the first bowler to scalp a five-fer against Mumbai Indians.</p>

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<p>RCB will next be in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 14.</p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli was full of praises for his team-mates, especially Harshal Patel and Glenn Maxwell, as the Bengaluru outfit got off to a rollicking start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) by two wickets in Chennai on Friday.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli was full of praises for his team-mates, especially Harshal Patel and Glenn Maxwell, as the Bengaluru outfit got off to a rollicking start in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 by defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) by two wickets in Chennai on Friday. RCB roped in Maxwell at the auction for a whopping INR 14.25 crore despite the Aussie having a torrid IPL 2020 with Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). However, Maxwell answered his critics in style while showing why the RCB management was spot on to spend heavily for his acquisition. After the IPL 2021 season opener against MI, RCB captain Kohli said that Maxwell’s knock of 39 runs off 28 deliveries was the game-changer as he put the pressure back on the bowlers. Kohli revealed that RCB wanted to allow Maxwell to play a few deliveries before bringing his array of shots into the game rather than slogging from the word go while adding it was important to play the strongest side in the tournament (MI) and test themselves against the best. ALSO READ: First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener “We won the first match last year as well that we played. It was important to play against the strongest side in the competition and test our side. Everyone was involved in this game, and when you win by two wickets, it means that everyone has gone in and played. A lot of options for me as well that helped bringing the game back. The pitch was looking decent in the first half, but to be honest, with the old ball the length ball was difficult to get away. That is why those partnerships between Maxi and me and then between AB and Maxi was really important. It's not a pitch where you can just hit through the line. You have to be smart with picking the gaps and running hard. Playing in Chennai you have to be respectful of that. The shot that Pollard got out to, in Wankhde it would've sailed into the crowds,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation on Friday. “We came back well and used the conditions well. They came back well too after losing Rohit early and those last six overs for us were probably the best six we've ever had. We brought Harshal in a trade from Delhi. He is relishing the responsibility and is clear with his plans. He was the difference today. He is going to be our death bowler. As a captain you want players with clarity, and he has that. Jamieson started off well, Yuzi was good, Siraj was good too. In T20 cricket, clarity at the top of your mark is all you as for as a captain. Harshal was very clear with that and it was his day today. IN PICS | IPL 2021- Harshal Patel and ABD shine as RCB beat Mumbai Indians in season opener “We wanted Maxi to bat at four. Rajat is a very solid player. He is an exciting player, plays spin well too. The thinking was that we wanted to give Maxi some balls at the start and not get him slogging right away. You saw the result today of him playing 10-15 balls. His innings was the game-changer. Had he stayed in we would've finished a couple of overs earlier. The opposition then gets nervous about AB. We have depth in the batting which we want to utilize. AB is probably the only one in the team who is so versatile. And he does it on slow wickets what not many can do. In a tricky chase you need experience at the back, and the opposition knows that if he doesn't get out, the bowlers get in a different headspace,” the RCB skipper added. Harshal Patel Press Conference | MI v RCB Man of the Match for RCB, @HarshalPatel23 gives us insights into his bowling after a brilliant performance against MI in the first match of #IPL2021 in Chennai.#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #MIvRCB pic.twitter.com/VaRWykTbRe — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) April 10, 2021 × While AB de Villiers stole the thunders with his terrific knock of 48 off 27 balls, it was Maxwell and Kohli who set the stage for the middle-order batters to finish the game for RCB. While Kohli scored 33 off 29, Maxwell posted 39 off 28. Earlier, Harshal Patel picked up five wickets and became the first bowler to scalp a five-fer against Mumbai Indians. × RCB will next be in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on April 14.

His innings was game-changer: Virat Kohli praises Glenn Maxwell after winning start in IPL 2021

<p>Mumbai Indians (MI) on Friday started their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a two-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Chris Lynn, who made his Mumbai Indians debut in the tournament opener on Friday, was involved in a mix-up with skipper Rohit Sharma which resulted in the latter getting run-out early in the first innings.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>After the match, Lynn jokingly said that it is not an ideal scenario running out your captain in the first game while adding that his first game for Mumbai Indians could be his last. Lynn admitted that he was a bit nervous going into the match but cleared out that there were plenty of other factors that led to MI losing the match and not just the run-out. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p>Lynn further said that he would have sacrificed his wicket instead of running out Rohit if he was able to cross the pitch. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p>The hard-hitting Australian slashed the ball towards the covers and called for a run before immediately pulling out. However, Rohit was halfway down the track by then and Virat Kohli was quick to get the throw to the non-striker’s end to dismiss the MI captain. While Rohit departed early, Lynn ended up with a 35-ball 49.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>"Look, obviously I was a bit nervous, no doubt about it. (It was my) first game for Mumbai and it was the first time I was batting with Rohit as well. It happens in the game of cricket as well. I thought there was a run, and then obviously there wasn't a run. But yeah, if I had been able to run past him and sacrifice my wicket, I definitely would have done that, but it wasn't the case.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-harshal-patel-and-abd-shine-as-rcb-beat-mumbai-indians-in-season-opener-376541" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Harshal Patel and ABD shine as RCB beat Mumbai Indians in season opener</a></strong></p>

<p>"As I said, it happens, but yeah, I put just a little bit more pressure on myself. It's not ideal, running out your captain in the first game. The first game could be my last, who knows? (laughs). But anyhow, it was a spur-of-the-moment thing, happens in the game. It would have been nice (if the runout didn't happen); he was striking the ball nicely, and we were 10 or 15 runs short in the end. He would have definitely made a difference, but there were plenty of factors in this game tonight, not just the run-out," Chris Lynn answered to WION's query in the post-match press conference.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-australia-pacer-behrendorff-absolutely-pumped-to-join-csk-376511" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Australia pacer Behrendorff 'absolutely pumped' to join CSK</a></strong></p>

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<p>Lynn started the match in place of South African Quinton de Kock, who is undergoing the mandatory seven-day quarantine period. He is expected to be back in the MI playing XI in their next match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday in Chennai.</p>

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Mumbai Indians (MI) on Friday started their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a two-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Mumbai Indians (MI) on Friday started their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a two-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Chris Lynn, who made his Mumbai Indians debut in the tournament opener on Friday, was involved in a mix-up with skipper Rohit Sharma which resulted in the latter getting run-out early in the first innings. After the match, Lynn jokingly said that it is not an ideal scenario running out your captain in the first game while adding that his first game for Mumbai Indians could be his last. Lynn admitted that he was a bit nervous going into the match but cleared out that there were plenty of other factors that led to MI losing the match and not just the run-out. Lynn further said that he would have sacrificed his wicket instead of running out Rohit if he was able to cross the pitch. The hard-hitting Australian slashed the ball towards the covers and called for a run before immediately pulling out. However, Rohit was halfway down the track by then and Virat Kohli was quick to get the throw to the non-striker’s end to dismiss the MI captain. While Rohit departed early, Lynn ended up with a 35-ball 49. "Look, obviously I was a bit nervous, no doubt about it. (It was my) first game for Mumbai and it was the first time I was batting with Rohit as well. It happens in the game of cricket as well. I thought there was a run, and then obviously there wasn't a run. But yeah, if I had been able to run past him and sacrifice my wicket, I definitely would have done that, but it wasn't the case. IN PICS | IPL 2021- Harshal Patel and ABD shine as RCB beat Mumbai Indians in season opener "As I said, it happens, but yeah, I put just a little bit more pressure on myself. It's not ideal, running out your captain in the first game. The first game could be my last, who knows? (laughs). But anyhow, it was a spur-of-the-moment thing, happens in the game. It would have been nice (if the runout didn't happen); he was striking the ball nicely, and we were 10 or 15 runs short in the end. He would have definitely made a difference, but there were plenty of factors in this game tonight, not just the run-out," Chris Lynn answered to WION's query in the post-match press conference. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Australia pacer Behrendorff 'absolutely pumped' to join CSK × Lynn started the match in place of South African Quinton de Kock, who is undergoing the mandatory seven-day quarantine period. He is expected to be back in the MI playing XI in their next match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday in Chennai.

First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener

<p>Pep Guardiola said he was "overwhelmed" to be described by Marcelo Bielsa as "magical" ahead of Manchester City's clash with Leeds on Saturday.</p>

<p>Veteran Leeds boss Bielsa this week said the Catalan was a "magical man" because of the way his teams played.</p>

<p>Guardiola, who views the Argentine as a role model, said at his pre-match press conference on Friday: "I'm overwhelmed, I feel weird.</p>

<p>"He's the most honest person. I'm pretty sure what he says is what he believes. He doesn't say or do anything for the media for the reputation of himself.</p>

<p>"That's why I'm overwhelmed. Everyone knows the admiration and respect (I have for him), the way he helped me in my beginnings.</p>

<p>"Always he'll be there in my heart and that's why I am always, 'wow'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Always I feel I don't deserve it because if there's one person who can search or find the secrets, the way we want to do it, the way we want to play, it's him, through his work ethic and especially his knowledge about the game."</p>

<p>Quadruple-chasing City head into the Premier League game at the Etihad Stadium 14 points clear at the top of the table.</p>

<p>They need 11 more points from their remaining seven fixtures to wrap up their third title in four years.</p>

<p>The sides drew 1-1 when they met at Elland Road in October.</p>

<p>Guardiola said: "I am looking forward to the game. We faced them in the first game and we know how difficult it was and this will not be an exception.</p>

<p>"The quality of the manager and the backroom staff shows in the position in the table. They were promoted last season and are already safe with 42 points... They've done incredibly well all season."</p>

<p>City were boosted this week by the announcement that Kevin De Bruyne had signed a new contract, committing him to the club until 2025.</p>

<p>Seeing it through would take the 29-year-old playmaker up to a decade at the Etihad Stadium.</p>

<p>Guardiola said: "I'm glad an important player like Kevin, who can have all the world in his hands and all the clubs would be delighted to have him, has decided to stay with us.</p>

<p>"I think it's a big compliment for all at Manchester City."</p>


Pep Guardiola said he was "overwhelmed" to be described by Marcelo Bielsa as "magical" ahead of Manchester City's clash with Leeds on Saturday. Veteran Leeds boss Bielsa this week said the Catalan was a "magical man" because of the way his teams played.

Pep Guardiola said he was "overwhelmed" to be described by Marcelo Bielsa as "magical" ahead of Manchester City's clash with Leeds on Saturday. Veteran Leeds boss Bielsa this week said the Catalan was a "magical man" because of the way his teams played. Guardiola, who views the Argentine as a role model, said at his pre-match press conference on Friday: "I'm overwhelmed, I feel weird. "He's the most honest person. I'm pretty sure what he says is what he believes. He doesn't say or do anything for the media for the reputation of himself. "That's why I'm overwhelmed. Everyone knows the admiration and respect (I have for him), the way he helped me in my beginnings. "Always he'll be there in my heart and that's why I am always, 'wow'. "Always I feel I don't deserve it because if there's one person who can search or find the secrets, the way we want to do it, the way we want to play, it's him, through his work ethic and especially his knowledge about the game." Quadruple-chasing City head into the Premier League game at the Etihad Stadium 14 points clear at the top of the table. They need 11 more points from their remaining seven fixtures to wrap up their third title in four years. The sides drew 1-1 when they met at Elland Road in October. Guardiola said: "I am looking forward to the game. We faced them in the first game and we know how difficult it was and this will not be an exception. "The quality of the manager and the backroom staff shows in the position in the table. They were promoted last season and are already safe with 42 points... They've done incredibly well all season." City were boosted this week by the announcement that Kevin De Bruyne had signed a new contract, committing him to the club until 2025. Seeing it through would take the 29-year-old playmaker up to a decade at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola said: "I'm glad an important player like Kevin, who can have all the world in his hands and all the clubs would be delighted to have him, has decided to stay with us. "I think it's a big compliment for all at Manchester City."

Guardiola overwhelmed by Bielsa's 'magical man' tribute

<p>Thomas Tuchel has challenged Tammy Abraham to make it "impossible" to leave him out, admitting it could be tough for the England forward to break back into the Chelsea side this season.</p>

<p>Abraham has only just shaken off a niggling ankle problem suffered in the 2-0 Premier League win over Newcastle on February 15.</p>

<p>Chelsea have lost just once in Tuchel's 16 matches in charge, with Abraham missing the bulk of those games.</p>

<p>They have one foot in the Champions League semi-finals after beating Porto 2-0 away in the first leg of their last-eight tie this week and are fifth in the Premier League, one point behind fourth-placed West Ham.</p>

<p>Academy graduate Abraham remains Chelsea's top scorer in all competitions this term with 12 goals, though Mason Mount has topped the charts under new manager Tuchel.</p>

<p>"Tammy had a bit of a rough time because twice he was substituted at half-time for tactical changes," said Tuchel.</p>

<p>"So he could not have the impact that he demands from himself, we wish from him and he can clearly give for us.</p>

<p>"Then he got injured and the squad played very well without him. Now suddenly we enter the decisive part of the season where it's not so easy to bring players who were injured into the shape or to let them play."</p>

<p>"But it's on Tammy to do everything to make it impossible to leave him out," he added. "It's very, very hard to select the 18 players for Premier League matches."</p>

<p>Chelsea face Crystal Palace in Saturday's Premier League clash at Selhurst Park but Abraham could find himself surplus to requirements again despite a lack of goals from the forwards.</p>

<p>A clutch of Premier League clubs are understood to be keen on a move for Abraham, with West Ham among the suitors.</p>

<p>Tuchel said he could not help the 23-year-old advance his claims for an England place ahead of the delayed Euro 2020 tournament but believes Abraham can have a big impact on the end of Chelsea's season.</p>

<p>"In the offensive positions it's always possible to have a huge impact in only some minutes," he said.</p>

<p>"And nothing has changed. We demand a lot of Tammy and he demands a lot of himself, and he is using every minute to convince us he needs to be on the pitch. And so we go on.</p>

<p>"Hopefully he stays fit and will play a key role in the end of the season."</p>


Thomas Tuchel has challenged Tammy Abraham to make it "impossible" to leave him out, admitting it could be tough for the England forward to break back into the Chelsea side this season.

Thomas Tuchel has challenged Tammy Abraham to make it "impossible" to leave him out, admitting it could be tough for the England forward to break back into the Chelsea side this season. Abraham has only just shaken off a niggling ankle problem suffered in the 2-0 Premier League win over Newcastle on February 15. Chelsea have lost just once in Tuchel's 16 matches in charge, with Abraham missing the bulk of those games. They have one foot in the Champions League semi-finals after beating Porto 2-0 away in the first leg of their last-eight tie this week and are fifth in the Premier League, one point behind fourth-placed West Ham. Academy graduate Abraham remains Chelsea's top scorer in all competitions this term with 12 goals, though Mason Mount has topped the charts under new manager Tuchel. "Tammy had a bit of a rough time because twice he was substituted at half-time for tactical changes," said Tuchel. "So he could not have the impact that he demands from himself, we wish from him and he can clearly give for us. "Then he got injured and the squad played very well without him. Now suddenly we enter the decisive part of the season where it's not so easy to bring players who were injured into the shape or to let them play." "But it's on Tammy to do everything to make it impossible to leave him out," he added. "It's very, very hard to select the 18 players for Premier League matches." Chelsea face Crystal Palace in Saturday's Premier League clash at Selhurst Park but Abraham could find himself surplus to requirements again despite a lack of goals from the forwards. A clutch of Premier League clubs are understood to be keen on a move for Abraham, with West Ham among the suitors. Tuchel said he could not help the 23-year-old advance his claims for an England place ahead of the delayed Euro 2020 tournament but believes Abraham can have a big impact on the end of Chelsea's season. "In the offensive positions it's always possible to have a huge impact in only some minutes," he said. "And nothing has changed. We demand a lot of Tammy and he demands a lot of himself, and he is using every minute to convince us he needs to be on the pitch. And so we go on. "Hopefully he stays fit and will play a key role in the end of the season."

Chelsea's Tuchel challenges Abraham to make it 'impossible' to leave him out

<p>Mikel Arteta says striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is "totally" committed to Arsenal even though he has been in and out of the team and he &nbsp;played down comparisons with the Mesut Ozil situation.</p>

<p>Club captain Aubameyang signed a lucrative new three-year contract last year but has struggled for form this season and was dropped for last month's north London derby after arriving late.</p>

<p>The Gabon international, 31, has scored just nine goals in 25 Premier League appearances this season compared with 22 goals last term.</p>

<p>His situation at the Emirates has been compared with that of Ozil, who under-performed despite being on huge wages before eventually being exiled by Arteta.</p>

<p>The Arsenal boss, though, said he did not see the merits of comparing the two cases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm always positive about the future but once you think about things that happen in the past or compare different situations and personalities, I won't do that," he said.</p>

<p>Asked whether Aubameyang was committed to the Gunners' cause, Arteta, whose side are languishing in mid-table in the English top-flight, added: "Totally."</p>

<p>The forward came on as a late second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw with Slavia Prague in the Europa League quarter-final first-leg clash on Thursday, setting up Nicolas Pepe's goal.</p>

<p>Arteta was pleased with Aubameyang's impact off the bench.</p>

<p>"In the Europa League everyone has contributed in different ways, the whole squad has been involved and yesterday's role for him (was) he was sat on the bench and to make an impact and he made an impact," said the Spaniard.</p>

<p>"He assisted Nico and should have scored a tap-in with his left foot and that's what the players have to do when they come in."</p>


Mikel Arteta says striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is "totally" committed to Arsenal even though he has been in and out of the team and he played down comparisons with the Mesut Ozil situation.

Mikel Arteta says striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is "totally" committed to Arsenal even though he has been in and out of the team and he played down comparisons with the Mesut Ozil situation. Club captain Aubameyang signed a lucrative new three-year contract last year but has struggled for form this season and was dropped for last month's north London derby after arriving late. The Gabon international, 31, has scored just nine goals in 25 Premier League appearances this season compared with 22 goals last term. His situation at the Emirates has been compared with that of Ozil, who under-performed despite being on huge wages before eventually being exiled by Arteta. The Arsenal boss, though, said he did not see the merits of comparing the two cases. "I'm always positive about the future but once you think about things that happen in the past or compare different situations and personalities, I won't do that," he said. Asked whether Aubameyang was committed to the Gunners' cause, Arteta, whose side are languishing in mid-table in the English top-flight, added: "Totally." The forward came on as a late second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw with Slavia Prague in the Europa League quarter-final first-leg clash on Thursday, setting up Nicolas Pepe's goal. Arteta was pleased with Aubameyang's impact off the bench. "In the Europa League everyone has contributed in different ways, the whole squad has been involved and yesterday's role for him (was) he was sat on the bench and to make an impact and he made an impact," said the Spaniard. "He assisted Nico and should have scored a tap-in with his left foot and that's what the players have to do when they come in."

Arteta says Aubameyang is 'totally' committed to Arsenal

<p>Adama Traore grabbed a stoppage-time winner as Wolves beat Fulham 1-0 at Craven Cottage on Friday to send the Londoners closer to relegation from the Premier League.</p>

<p>In added time, Traore ran down the right before firing home to secure his side's first victory since mid-February.</p>

<p>However, Fulham boss Scott Parker insists his team can still beat the drop.</p>

<p>"We find ourselves in this position where we are, but we've got a fighting chance because of what you see at the end of the game, a team and a group of players that are desperate," he said.</p>

<p>"We will continue, painful, hurt but as always you get your guard up and you come out swinging, and that's what we'll do."</p>

<p>For Traore, it was an evening to remember as it was his first goal in the Premier League since December 2019.</p>

<p>"I am so happy. We needed the points, it has been tough for us," said the Spaniard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have been working hard through the weeks, trying to run in behind and mix the games up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If I can help the team the best I can I will. I trust in my quality."</p>

<p>Wolves striker Willian Jose had earlier been denied his first goal for the club when his header in first-half injury time was ruled out for an offside by Daniel Podence following a VAR review.</p>

<p>Fulham have lost their last four league games with their most recent win a stunning victory over champions Liverpool at Anfield on March 7.</p>

<p>They remain third from bottom, three points behind Newcastle who have played two games fewer.</p>

<p>Wolves are 12th and seemingly safe in the Premier League for another season.</p>


Adama Traore grabbed a stoppage-time winner as Wolves beat Fulham 1-0 at Craven Cottage on Friday to send the Londoners closer to relegation from the Premier League.

Adama Traore grabbed a stoppage-time winner as Wolves beat Fulham 1-0 at Craven Cottage on Friday to send the Londoners closer to relegation from the Premier League. In added time, Traore ran down the right before firing home to secure his side's first victory since mid-February. However, Fulham boss Scott Parker insists his team can still beat the drop. "We find ourselves in this position where we are, but we've got a fighting chance because of what you see at the end of the game, a team and a group of players that are desperate," he said. "We will continue, painful, hurt but as always you get your guard up and you come out swinging, and that's what we'll do." For Traore, it was an evening to remember as it was his first goal in the Premier League since December 2019. "I am so happy. We needed the points, it has been tough for us," said the Spaniard. "I have been working hard through the weeks, trying to run in behind and mix the games up. "If I can help the team the best I can I will. I trust in my quality." Wolves striker Willian Jose had earlier been denied his first goal for the club when his header in first-half injury time was ruled out for an offside by Daniel Podence following a VAR review. Fulham have lost their last four league games with their most recent win a stunning victory over champions Liverpool at Anfield on March 7. They remain third from bottom, three points behind Newcastle who have played two games fewer. Wolves are 12th and seemingly safe in the Premier League for another season.

Parker insists Fulham still have 'fighting chance' to beat drop

<p>Top-ranked defending champion Dustin Johnson has more time to prepare for next week's US PGA Heritage Classic than he really wanted after missing the cut at the 85th Masters.</p>

<p>Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy also failed to reach the weekend for only the second time in 13 trips to Augusta National, missing his chance to complete a career Grand Slam for another year.</p>

<p>And four-time major champion Brooks Koepka, who battled to play after right knee surgery a month ago, wasn't among the 54 who reached the weekend at the year's first major championship.</p>

<p>"I worked my ass off just to get here and then to play like this is pretty disappointing," Koepka said.</p>

<p>Johnson and Koepka each cited putting woes as their reason for being done, although Koepka will get weekend physical therapy and Johnson must put the green jacket on the shoulders of the new Masters champion in a Sunday ceremony.</p>

<p>"Mostly just the putter. Six three-putts in two rounds, you just can't do that," Johnson said.</p>

<p>"Didn't drive it great but drove it good enough, and I felt like I never was really too bad out of position. Just the three-putts killed me.</p>

<p>"I just didn't putt very well. My speed was awful. I just left it short from 10 feet there on the last hole. I just didn't have a good beat on the speed the last two days."</p>

<p>Koepka and Johnson both shot 75 to finish on five-over 149 while McIlroy, who did not speak after, was on 150 after a closing 74.</p>

<p>McIlroy has been reworking his swing with coach Pete Cowen and said Thursday he was very much still in a transition process.</p>

<p>"Any time you're working on things with your swing, it's going to feel very different, but it's not as if I haven't done these things before," McIlroy said.</p>

<p>"It's like you get into these bad habits and that feels normal, and then you get it back into position where I've been a million times before and it just feels a little different."</p>

<p>Koepka putting woes were major as well.</p>

<p>"Putter was ice cold. Didn't make any putts," he said. "I don't want to say the speed was off, maybe the reads a little bit. Maybe the start line. A lot of them felt like good putts, and they weren't even hitting the hole.</p>

<p>"They felt good coming off the face, but they didn't even sniff it."</p>

<p>Koepka was pleased he had the stamina to walk 18 holes at hilly Augusta.</p>

<p>"Downhill was tough," Koepka said. "I don't feel as sore as I did yesterday, so I feel better. It's nice to know I can walk 18."</p>

<p>Koepka will play in next month's PGA Championship at Kiawah Island but wasn't sure if he would play a US PGA event before the next major tournament.</p>

<p>"Tough to say," he said. "Just for how it feels, how rehab goes and everything. I wouldn't have been playing for another month if it wasn't (Masters) week. So I'll take a nice long break after this."</p>


Top-ranked defending champion Dustin Johnson has more time to prepare for next week's US PGA Heritage Classic than he really wanted after missing the cut at the 85th Masters.

Top-ranked defending champion Dustin Johnson has more time to prepare for next week's US PGA Heritage Classic than he really wanted after missing the cut at the 85th Masters. Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy also failed to reach the weekend for only the second time in 13 trips to Augusta National, missing his chance to complete a career Grand Slam for another year. And four-time major champion Brooks Koepka, who battled to play after right knee surgery a month ago, wasn't among the 54 who reached the weekend at the year's first major championship. "I worked my ass off just to get here and then to play like this is pretty disappointing," Koepka said. Johnson and Koepka each cited putting woes as their reason for being done, although Koepka will get weekend physical therapy and Johnson must put the green jacket on the shoulders of the new Masters champion in a Sunday ceremony. "Mostly just the putter. Six three-putts in two rounds, you just can't do that," Johnson said. "Didn't drive it great but drove it good enough, and I felt like I never was really too bad out of position. Just the three-putts killed me. "I just didn't putt very well. My speed was awful. I just left it short from 10 feet there on the last hole. I just didn't have a good beat on the speed the last two days." Koepka and Johnson both shot 75 to finish on five-over 149 while McIlroy, who did not speak after, was on 150 after a closing 74. McIlroy has been reworking his swing with coach Pete Cowen and said Thursday he was very much still in a transition process. "Any time you're working on things with your swing, it's going to feel very different, but it's not as if I haven't done these things before," McIlroy said. "It's like you get into these bad habits and that feels normal, and then you get it back into position where I've been a million times before and it just feels a little different." Koepka putting woes were major as well. "Putter was ice cold. Didn't make any putts," he said. "I don't want to say the speed was off, maybe the reads a little bit. Maybe the start line. A lot of them felt like good putts, and they weren't even hitting the hole. "They felt good coming off the face, but they didn't even sniff it." Koepka was pleased he had the stamina to walk 18 holes at hilly Augusta. "Downhill was tough," Koepka said. "I don't feel as sore as I did yesterday, so I feel better. It's nice to know I can walk 18." Koepka will play in next month's PGA Championship at Kiawah Island but wasn't sure if he would play a US PGA event before the next major tournament. "Tough to say," he said. "Just for how it feels, how rehab goes and everything. I wouldn't have been playing for another month if it wasn't (Masters) week. So I'll take a nice long break after this."

No. 1 Johnson, McIlroy and Koepka miss Masters cut

<p>Manchester City suffered just a fourth Premier League defeat of the season as 10-man Leeds United shocked the runaway leaders thanks to Stuart Dallas's double in a 2-1 win at the Etihad on Saturday.</p>

<p>Dallas opened the scoring three minutes before half-time, but hope of a famous win for Marcelo Bielsa's men seemed to have disappeared when captain Liam Cooper was shown a straight red card in first-half stoppage time.</p>

<p>The visitors withstood a City bombardment until Ferran Torres equalised 14 minutes from time.</p>

<p>But Leeds still summoned the energy to pose a threat on the counter-attack and gained their reward when Dallas slotted below Ederson.</p>

<p>Bielsa's first win in five meetings against Pep Guardiola propels Leeds to ninth in their first season back in the English top flight for 16 years.</p>

<p>Guardiola paid for heavily rotating his side with Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, second leg, against Borussia Dortmund clearly his priority.</p>

<p>City still enjoy a 14-point lead at the top of the Premier League and need just 11 points from their remaining six matches to guarantee a third title in four years.</p>

<p>But Manchester United could close the gap to eight points should the Red Devils win their two games in hand, the first of which is away to Tottenham on Sunday.</p>

<p>A two-minute silence was held before kick-off in honour of Prince Philip, who died aged 99 on Friday.</p>

<p>Once the action got underway, City noticeably missed Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden and Ruben Dias, who were among the stars left on the bench by Guardiola.</p>

<p>Raheem Sterling's presence in what was largely a second string side is a reflection of how the England international has fallen down the pecking order in the past few weeks.</p>

<p>Sterling did not even get on as a substitute in the first leg against Dortmund and did little to further his case for selection in midweek by slicing a great chance wide from Fernandinho's cut-back.</p>

<p>Leeds had wasted a number of promising attacks with their final ball, but found the finishing touch on 43 minutes.</p>

<p>Patrick Bamford teed up Dallas to strike low in off the inside the post.</p>

<p>The visitors' joy was short-lived. Just four minutes later they were a man down.</p>

<p>Cooper played the ball first before crashing into Gabriel Jesus, but referee Andre Marriner upgraded a yellow card shown to the Leeds' captain to a red after reviewing the incident on the pitch-side screen.</p>

<p>Bamford was immediately sacrificed for more defensive cover in Pascal Struijk as Leeds battened down the hatches.</p>

<p>City were camped inside the Leeds half for almost the entire second-half, but were largely reduced to long-range efforts as Illan Meslier saved from Oleksandr Zinchenko, Fernandinho and Joao Cancelo.</p>

<p>Gundogan and Foden were introduced to bring more spark to City's attack, but De Bruyne was surprisingly left in reserve for the full 90 minutes.</p>

<p>Torres finally made City's dominance pay with a first-time finish after Fernandinho picked out Silva inside the area.</p>

<p>Yet, Leeds still went in search of a winner.</p>

<p>Raphinha outpaced Fernandinho, but was denied by a brilliant tackle by Brazilian compatriot Ederson.</p>

<p>Leeds' approach was rewarded in stoppage time when Dallas galloped clear down the middle of a vacant City defence to slot home.</p>


Manchester City suffered just a fourth Premier League defeat of the season as 10-man Leeds United shocked the runaway leaders thanks to Stuart Dallas's double in a 2-1 win at the Etihad on Saturday.

Manchester City suffered just a fourth Premier League defeat of the season as 10-man Leeds United shocked the runaway leaders thanks to Stuart Dallas's double in a 2-1 win at the Etihad on Saturday. Dallas opened the scoring three minutes before half-time, but hope of a famous win for Marcelo Bielsa's men seemed to have disappeared when captain Liam Cooper was shown a straight red card in first-half stoppage time. The visitors withstood a City bombardment until Ferran Torres equalised 14 minutes from time. But Leeds still summoned the energy to pose a threat on the counter-attack and gained their reward when Dallas slotted below Ederson. Bielsa's first win in five meetings against Pep Guardiola propels Leeds to ninth in their first season back in the English top flight for 16 years. Guardiola paid for heavily rotating his side with Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, second leg, against Borussia Dortmund clearly his priority. City still enjoy a 14-point lead at the top of the Premier League and need just 11 points from their remaining six matches to guarantee a third title in four years. But Manchester United could close the gap to eight points should the Red Devils win their two games in hand, the first of which is away to Tottenham on Sunday. A two-minute silence was held before kick-off in honour of Prince Philip, who died aged 99 on Friday. Once the action got underway, City noticeably missed Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden and Ruben Dias, who were among the stars left on the bench by Guardiola. Raheem Sterling's presence in what was largely a second string side is a reflection of how the England international has fallen down the pecking order in the past few weeks. Sterling did not even get on as a substitute in the first leg against Dortmund and did little to further his case for selection in midweek by slicing a great chance wide from Fernandinho's cut-back. Leeds had wasted a number of promising attacks with their final ball, but found the finishing touch on 43 minutes. Patrick Bamford teed up Dallas to strike low in off the inside the post. The visitors' joy was short-lived. Just four minutes later they were a man down. Cooper played the ball first before crashing into Gabriel Jesus, but referee Andre Marriner upgraded a yellow card shown to the Leeds' captain to a red after reviewing the incident on the pitch-side screen. Bamford was immediately sacrificed for more defensive cover in Pascal Struijk as Leeds battened down the hatches. City were camped inside the Leeds half for almost the entire second-half, but were largely reduced to long-range efforts as Illan Meslier saved from Oleksandr Zinchenko, Fernandinho and Joao Cancelo. Gundogan and Foden were introduced to bring more spark to City's attack, but De Bruyne was surprisingly left in reserve for the full 90 minutes. Torres finally made City's dominance pay with a first-time finish after Fernandinho picked out Silva inside the area. Yet, Leeds still went in search of a winner. Raphinha outpaced Fernandinho, but was denied by a brilliant tackle by Brazilian compatriot Ederson. Leeds' approach was rewarded in stoppage time when Dallas galloped clear down the middle of a vacant City defence to slot home.

Dallas double sees 10-man Leeds shock Man City

<p class="MsoNormal">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have many times left themselves to be blamed for poor results despite having one of the strongest looking squads on paper. While over-dependency on some players have played a major role in it, the Kolkata outfit looks to start a fresh chapter under the full-time captaincy of World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">KKR would be hoping for a fully fit Andre Russell and a firing Sunil Narine whereas hoping that new additions of Shakib Al Hasan, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Harbhajan Singh, among others come good during the course of the season.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">KKR finished fifth after narrowly missing out on playoff qualification due to net run rate.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-are-some-major-records-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-can-shatter-in-ipl-2021-376648" hreflang="en">Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Kolkata franchise would be banking on Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana and Rahul Tripathi to give them a boost in the top order. The middle-order of Eoin Morgan, Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik looks strong on paper and the fans would be hoping for some fireworks. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In terms of bowling, Pat Cummins and Lockie Ferguson will be KKR’s key overseas bowlers and there will be more dependency on Varun Chakravarthy after he exceeded expectations last season. The likes of Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi and Kamlesh Nagarkoti along with Sandeep Warrier and Vaibhav Arora make them a good bowling unit.</p>

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<p>If KKR can sort their playing combination and batting order then they can have a fruitful season in IPL 2021. They have plenty of match-winners at their helm and it would be interesting how Morgan uses the big-name players in the T20 tournament.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/timeless-brian-lara-mighty-impressed-with-abds-knock-in-ipl-opener-376661" hreflang="en">'Timeless': Brian Lara mighty impressed with ABD's knock in IPL opener</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2021 Squad:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Shubman Gill, Shakib Al Hasan, Nitish Rana, Tim Seifert, Rahul Tripathi, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Varun CV, Kuldeep Yadav, Pat Cummins, Lockie Ferguson, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Sandeep Warrier, Prasidh Krishna, Sheldon Jackson, Vaibhav Arora, Karun Nair, Harbhajan Singh, Ben Cutting, Venkatesh Iyer, Pawan Negi <o:p></o:p></p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have many times left themselves to be blamed for poor results despite having one of the strongest looking squads on paper. While over-dependency on some players have played a major role in it, the Kolkata outfit looks to start a fresh chapter under the full-time captaincy of World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have many times left themselves to be blamed for poor results despite having one of the strongest looking squads on paper. While over-dependency on some players have played a major role in it, the Kolkata outfit looks to start a fresh chapter under the full-time captaincy of World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan. KKR would be hoping for a fully fit Andre Russell and a firing Sunil Narine whereas hoping that new additions of Shakib Al Hasan, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Harbhajan Singh, among others come good during the course of the season. KKR finished fifth after narrowly missing out on playoff qualification due to net run rate. ALSO READ: Here are some major records CSK skipper MS Dhoni can shatter in IPL 2021 The Kolkata franchise would be banking on Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana and Rahul Tripathi to give them a boost in the top order. The middle-order of Eoin Morgan, Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik looks strong on paper and the fans would be hoping for some fireworks. In terms of bowling, Pat Cummins and Lockie Ferguson will be KKR’s key overseas bowlers and there will be more dependency on Varun Chakravarthy after he exceeded expectations last season. The likes of Prasidh Krishna, Shivam Mavi and Kamlesh Nagarkoti along with Sandeep Warrier and Vaibhav Arora make them a good bowling unit. × If KKR can sort their playing combination and batting order then they can have a fruitful season in IPL 2021. They have plenty of match-winners at their helm and it would be interesting how Morgan uses the big-name players in the T20 tournament. ALSO READ: 'Timeless': Brian Lara mighty impressed with ABD's knock in IPL opener Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2021 Squad: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - Eoin Morgan (c), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Shubman Gill, Shakib Al Hasan, Nitish Rana, Tim Seifert, Rahul Tripathi, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Varun CV, Kuldeep Yadav, Pat Cummins, Lockie Ferguson, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Sandeep Warrier, Prasidh Krishna, Sheldon Jackson, Vaibhav Arora, Karun Nair, Harbhajan Singh, Ben Cutting, Venkatesh Iyer, Pawan Negi

IPL 2021, KKR - Team Preview: Kolkata look to find old glory under Morgan's leadership

<p>Shubman Gill has said that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will look to avoid the net run-rate trap in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 after missing out on playoff qualification in the previous edition of the tournament, played in the UAE.</p>

<p>KKR finished IPL 2020 with 14 points under their belt but were level with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). KKR had a net run rate of -0.214 in what was one of the tightest finishes to an IPL league stage. However, RCB qualified for the playoffs on a net run rate of 0.172.</p>

<p>Shubman expressed the pain of missing out by such a tight margin but said that the team would look to improve and avoid a similar situation in the ongoing edition of the T20 tournament.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guru-vs-chela-ravi-shastri-expresses-his-excitement-for-dhoni-vs-pant-clash-in-ipl-2021-376637" hreflang="en">'Guru vs Chela': Ravi Shastri expresses his excitement for Dhoni vs Pant clash in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>"Missing qualification on net run rate, by the barest of margins, always hurts. But there is always room for improvement. And that's what we will try to do this year and not leave it to the net run rate," Gill told The National.</p>

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<p>KKR would look to flourish under the full-time captaincy of Eoin Morgan and all eyes would be on Gill as to how he goes about his business in the new season.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watching-cricket-from-home-twitter-brings-an-extravagant-experience-with-new-features-376633" hreflang="en">Watching cricket from home? Twitter brings an extravagant experience with new features</a></strong></p>

<p>"You get to practice before any tournament starts, that's where you kind of adjust. You get enough time in practice sessions and match simulation, practice matches. So that is enough time to adjust," Gill said.</p>

<p>"The way I see it, it has been a good six seven months. The last time I played IPL, and after that I have played plenty of cricket which has given me a lot of confidence."</p>

<p>KKR start their IPL 2021 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Saturday.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


Shubman Gill has said that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will look to avoid the net run-rate trap in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 after missing out on playoff qualification in the previous edition of the tournament, played in the UAE.

Shubman Gill has said that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will look to avoid the net run-rate trap in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 after missing out on playoff qualification in the previous edition of the tournament, played in the UAE. KKR finished IPL 2020 with 14 points under their belt but were level with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). KKR had a net run rate of -0.214 in what was one of the tightest finishes to an IPL league stage. However, RCB qualified for the playoffs on a net run rate of 0.172. Shubman expressed the pain of missing out by such a tight margin but said that the team would look to improve and avoid a similar situation in the ongoing edition of the T20 tournament. ALSO READ: 'Guru vs Chela': Ravi Shastri expresses his excitement for Dhoni vs Pant clash in IPL 2021 "Missing qualification on net run rate, by the barest of margins, always hurts. But there is always room for improvement. And that's what we will try to do this year and not leave it to the net run rate," Gill told The National. × KKR would look to flourish under the full-time captaincy of Eoin Morgan and all eyes would be on Gill as to how he goes about his business in the new season. ALSO READ: Watching cricket from home? Twitter brings an extravagant experience with new features "You get to practice before any tournament starts, that's where you kind of adjust. You get enough time in practice sessions and match simulation, practice matches. So that is enough time to adjust," Gill said. "The way I see it, it has been a good six seven months. The last time I played IPL, and after that I have played plenty of cricket which has given me a lot of confidence." KKR start their IPL 2021 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Saturday.

'Always hurts...': KKR's Shubman Gill hopes to avoid net run rate trap in playoff race

<p>Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) officials have been asked to submit a negative COVID-19 report in a bid to attend the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Taking strict measures, MCA has asked all MCA apex council members and staff members, even those who have been vaccinated, to produce a negative report to get inside the Wankhede Stadium.</p>

<p>According to a report in ANI, MCA secretary Sanjay Naik has written to all MCA apex council member to submit a negative COVID-19 report to get an entry inside the iconic Wankhede Stadium for IPL 2021 matches.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"As per BCCI's protocol, all the officials who would be attending the IPL 2021 matches at Wankhede Stadium are required to produce a negative report of RT-PCR test conducted within 48 hours of the match day," Naik wrote in his letter.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watching-cricket-from-home-twitter-brings-an-extravagant-experience-with-new-features-376633" hreflang="en">Watching cricket from home? Twitter brings an extravagant experience with new features</a></strong></p>

<p>"The tests are mandatory even for those who have been vaccinated. The report will have to be produced at the time of entry to the stadium on each match day. Hence you are requested to get yourself tested at your end and carry the negative report to the stadium on match day," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guru-vs-chela-ravi-shastri-expresses-his-excitement-for-dhoni-vs-pant-clash-in-ipl-2021-376637" hreflang="en">'Guru vs Chela': Ravi Shastri expresses his excitement for Dhoni vs Pant clash in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is set to host 10 IPL 2021 matches from April 10-25. The first match at the stadium is set to be played between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings.</p>

<p>On Friday, the state of Maharashtra recorded 58,993 new COVID-19 cases, 45,391 recoveries, and 301 deaths. Meanwhile, India's COVID-19 tally hit a record daily high since the outbreak of the pandemic with over 1.45 lakh new infections being reported in a span of 24 hours, taking the cumulative count to 1,32,05,926, according to the Union Health Ministry.</p>

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<p>Last week, several members of the Wankhede groundstaff returned with positive Covid-19 reports. On Sunday, the Maharashtra government announced a weekend lockdown from Friday 8 pm to Monday 7 am to curb the spread of Covid-19.</p>

<p>(With ANI inputs)</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) officials have been asked to submit a negative COVID-19 report in a bid to attend the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) officials have been asked to submit a negative COVID-19 report in a bid to attend the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 matches at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Taking strict measures, MCA has asked all MCA apex council members and staff members, even those who have been vaccinated, to produce a negative report to get inside the Wankhede Stadium. According to a report in ANI, MCA secretary Sanjay Naik has written to all MCA apex council member to submit a negative COVID-19 report to get an entry inside the iconic Wankhede Stadium for IPL 2021 matches. "As per BCCI's protocol, all the officials who would be attending the IPL 2021 matches at Wankhede Stadium are required to produce a negative report of RT-PCR test conducted within 48 hours of the match day," Naik wrote in his letter. ALSO READ: Watching cricket from home? Twitter brings an extravagant experience with new features "The tests are mandatory even for those who have been vaccinated. The report will have to be produced at the time of entry to the stadium on each match day. Hence you are requested to get yourself tested at your end and carry the negative report to the stadium on match day," he added. ALSO READ: 'Guru vs Chela': Ravi Shastri expresses his excitement for Dhoni vs Pant clash in IPL 2021 Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is set to host 10 IPL 2021 matches from April 10-25. The first match at the stadium is set to be played between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. On Friday, the state of Maharashtra recorded 58,993 new COVID-19 cases, 45,391 recoveries, and 301 deaths. Meanwhile, India's COVID-19 tally hit a record daily high since the outbreak of the pandemic with over 1.45 lakh new infections being reported in a span of 24 hours, taking the cumulative count to 1,32,05,926, according to the Union Health Ministry. × Last week, several members of the Wankhede groundstaff returned with positive Covid-19 reports. On Sunday, the Maharashtra government announced a weekend lockdown from Friday 8 pm to Monday 7 am to curb the spread of Covid-19. (With ANI inputs)

IPL 2021: Vaccinated officials, staff asked to carry COVID-19 negative reports for matches in Wankhede Stadium

<p>Twitter is what’s happening in the world, and this cricket season, it will enable fans to have a larger-than-life experience from the comforts of their couch through a range of features that will allow them to follow and participate in conversations a lot more intimately.</p>

<p>In 2020, the absence of on-ground cricket action prompted more fans to turn to Twitter, converting the service into a virtual stadium. Fans came to the service to discuss match moments, cheer their favourite teams and interact with their cricket idols. As a result, the conversations during the cricket season in 2020 increased by 23% in comparison to the 2019 season. This year, as cricket fans gear up for another exciting year, Twitter has curated a host of innovative, interactive experiences for fans to celebrate and participate in conversations as they happen in real-time on the service.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2>Here’s how fans can follow the upcoming tournament on social media platform&nbsp;Twitter:</h2>

<p>1. Spaces: Spaces, Twitter’s newest offering, allows people to come together to have live audio conversations. Spaces is a great feature for people to have conversations about things that they’re passionate about, or just gather in an intimate environment to chat using their voice. With cricket being such a huge passion point on Twitter, teams have already started making the most of Spaces to connect with and engage fans on the service. Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) recently hosted a Twitter Space with Zaheer Khan (@ImZaheer) - #TwitterSpaceWithZak - becoming the first sports club in the country to do so. The Space had Zaheer interacting with fans and sharing plans for the upcoming season.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How to join <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TwitterSpaceWithZak?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TwitterSpaceWithZak</a> 👇<br />
<br />
🔹 Open the Twitter app on your smartphone 🤳<br />
🔹 Check the fleets section at 12 PM ⏰<br />
🔹 Click the purple button that has the MI Logo 🟣<br />
🔹 Za-hear, enjoy, interact 😁<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneFamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImZaheer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImZaheer</a> <a href="https://t.co/vxlhp7pLcM">pic.twitter.com/vxlhp7pLcM</a></p>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1376376064138752000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indiranagarkagunda-rahul-dravids-angry-avatar-takes-twitter-by-storm-check-best-reactions-376624" hreflang="en">#IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions</a></strong></p>

<p>2. Emojis: Twitter has launched eight new jersey emojis for all the teams in English and six Indic languages. Fans can simply Tweet with the team hashtags to unlock these emojis and participate in live conversations. Here are some of the hashtags that will unlock the team emojis: #IPL2021, #MumbaiIndians, #OneFamily, #WhistlePodu, #WeAreChallengers, #HallaBol, #RoyalsFamily, #PunjabKings, #SaddaPunjab, #KKRHaiTaiyaar, #KorboLorboJeetbo, #YehHaiNayiDilli, #OrangeArmy, and more.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's almost that time of year - so what are you waiting for? Get your jersey on! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/T86X8rYzkR">pic.twitter.com/T86X8rYzkR</a></p>
— Twitter India (@TwitterIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterIndia/status/1378378919858950146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>3. Topics: Twitter Topics allow people to follow conversations on specific subjects. Using machine learning, Topics pull out related Tweets on a subject, letting people follow numerous interest categories. When you follow a Topic, you will see Tweets from a number of accounts - whether you follow them or not - on the shared interest. Last year, Twitter introduced several Topics for the cricket - one for the series and several others for all of the teams &nbsp;- so people can stay up-to-date with all conversations around cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>4. Twitter Lists: Twitter Lists - a compilation of Twitter accounts - let people put together their favourite accounts to follow for Tweets on a specific subject and populate a separate timeline for the List. When you view this List timeline, you will see Tweets from all of the accounts in that List. To let people keep a close eye on what their favourites from the cricket season are saying and doing, Twitter has created Lists of accounts to follow for each team - including the squads as well as their coaches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-game-could-be-my-last-chris-lynn-on-running-out-captain-rohit-sharma-in-ipl-2021-opener-376596" hreflang="en">First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ahead of the opening game of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> between <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> in Chennai on Friday, keep up with the action right here with the help of these lists:</p>
— Twitter Moments India (@MomentsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MomentsIndia/status/1380180659797422084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>5. Live shows: Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals will be hosting live shows to bring fans closer together. The shows will involve commentary and watching the game virtually along with a select group of fans every match day.</p>

<p>6. Events Page and Scorecard: Fans can simply go to an events page to follow all the live updates and real-time conversations on Twitter. Additionally, fans can also check out the live scores on the Scorecard which will be featured on the top of the Events page and follow the match on the go. For all the real time conversations around the opening match #MIvRCB, just follow the below events page:</p>

<p>Through these innovations, audiences on the social media platform will get more opportunities than before to get closer to their favourite teams and players and show their instant support.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Check WION's full coverage on IPL 2021 here!</a></p>


Twitter is what’s happening in the world, and this cricket season, it will enable fans to have a larger-than-life experience from the comforts of their couch through a range of features that will allow them to follow and participate in conversations a lot more intimately.

Twitter is what’s happening in the world, and this cricket season, it will enable fans to have a larger-than-life experience from the comforts of their couch through a range of features that will allow them to follow and participate in conversations a lot more intimately. In 2020, the absence of on-ground cricket action prompted more fans to turn to Twitter, converting the service into a virtual stadium. Fans came to the service to discuss match moments, cheer their favourite teams and interact with their cricket idols. As a result, the conversations during the cricket season in 2020 increased by 23% in comparison to the 2019 season. This year, as cricket fans gear up for another exciting year, Twitter has curated a host of innovative, interactive experiences for fans to celebrate and participate in conversations as they happen in real-time on the service. × Here’s how fans can follow the upcoming tournament on social media platform Twitter: 1. Spaces: Spaces, Twitter’s newest offering, allows people to come together to have live audio conversations. Spaces is a great feature for people to have conversations about things that they’re passionate about, or just gather in an intimate environment to chat using their voice. With cricket being such a huge passion point on Twitter, teams have already started making the most of Spaces to connect with and engage fans on the service. Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) recently hosted a Twitter Space with Zaheer Khan (@ImZaheer) - #TwitterSpaceWithZak - becoming the first sports club in the country to do so. The Space had Zaheer interacting with fans and sharing plans for the upcoming season. How to join #TwitterSpaceWithZak 👇 🔹 Open the Twitter app on your smartphone 🤳 🔹 Check the fleets section at 12 PM ⏰ 🔹 Click the purple button that has the MI Logo 🟣 🔹 Za-hear, enjoy, interact 😁#OneFamily #MumbaiIndians #IPL2021 @ImZaheer pic.twitter.com/vxlhp7pLcM — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 29, 2021 × ALSO READ: #IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions 2. Emojis: Twitter has launched eight new jersey emojis for all the teams in English and six Indic languages. Fans can simply Tweet with the team hashtags to unlock these emojis and participate in live conversations. Here are some of the hashtags that will unlock the team emojis: #IPL2021, #MumbaiIndians, #OneFamily, #WhistlePodu, #WeAreChallengers, #HallaBol, #RoyalsFamily, #PunjabKings, #SaddaPunjab, #KKRHaiTaiyaar, #KorboLorboJeetbo, #YehHaiNayiDilli, #OrangeArmy, and more. It's almost that time of year - so what are you waiting for? Get your jersey on! #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/T86X8rYzkR — Twitter India (@TwitterIndia) April 3, 2021 × 3. Topics: Twitter Topics allow people to follow conversations on specific subjects. Using machine learning, Topics pull out related Tweets on a subject, letting people follow numerous interest categories. When you follow a Topic, you will see Tweets from a number of accounts - whether you follow them or not - on the shared interest. Last year, Twitter introduced several Topics for the cricket - one for the series and several others for all of the teams - so people can stay up-to-date with all conversations around cricket. 4. Twitter Lists: Twitter Lists - a compilation of Twitter accounts - let people put together their favourite accounts to follow for Tweets on a specific subject and populate a separate timeline for the List. When you view this List timeline, you will see Tweets from all of the accounts in that List. To let people keep a close eye on what their favourites from the cricket season are saying and doing, Twitter has created Lists of accounts to follow for each team - including the squads as well as their coaches. ALSO READ: First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener Ahead of the opening game of #IPL2021 between @mipaltan and @RCBTweets in Chennai on Friday, keep up with the action right here with the help of these lists: — Twitter Moments India (@MomentsIndia) April 8, 2021 × 5. Live shows: Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals will be hosting live shows to bring fans closer together. The shows will involve commentary and watching the game virtually along with a select group of fans every match day. 6. Events Page and Scorecard: Fans can simply go to an events page to follow all the live updates and real-time conversations on Twitter. Additionally, fans can also check out the live scores on the Scorecard which will be featured on the top of the Events page and follow the match on the go. For all the real time conversations around the opening match #MIvRCB, just follow the below events page: Through these innovations, audiences on the social media platform will get more opportunities than before to get closer to their favourite teams and players and show their instant support. Check WION's full coverage on IPL 2021 here!

Watching cricket from home? Twitter brings an extravagant experience with new features

<p>A never-seen-before ‘angry’ avatar of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid has taken social media by storm. Appearing in an advertisement, Dravid was seen showing his angry side while stuck in traffic in Bengaluru.</p>

<p>In an advertisement that hit the screens on Friday afternoon, just before the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Dravid has managed to leave everyone shocked with his new avatar while becoming the talk of the town. The ad has gone viral like a wildfire with the 48-year-old former cricketer becoming the top-ranked trending topic on social media platform Twitter.</p>

<p>Hashtags like #IndiraNagarKaGunda, #RahulDravid, #IndiraNagar have been trending since the ad released on Friday with Dravid winning hearts with his acting and for his new avatar.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-five-major-records-rcb-captain-virat-kohli-can-break-in-ipl-2021-375916" hreflang="en">List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Featuring in an ad for a Bengaluru-based credit card bill payment platform where actor Jim Sarbh is seen saying "it is like saying Rahul Dravid has anger issues" while referring to the benefits offered by the platform. Dravid then appears shouting at everyone and even breaking the side-mirror of a car standing next to him.</p>

<p>The ad has resulted in memes flooding the internet as love and admiration for Dravid was seen all over social media platforms. The fact that Dravid doesn't do many ads caught everyone by surprise and his new avatar was the icing on the cake for everyone.</p>

<p><strong>TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravids-angry-side-leaves-virat-kohli-in-surprise-376306" hreflang="en">Watch: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' side leaves Virat Kohli in surprise</a></strong></p>

<h2>Here’s how Rahul Dravid’s new avatar took Twitter by storm:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Never seen this side of Rahul bhai 🤯🤣 <a href="https://t.co/4W93p0Gk7m">pic.twitter.com/4W93p0Gk7m</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1380451732690411521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rahul bhai’s strike rate is through the roof 👏👏☺️ <a href="https://t.co/9JgRG4Z7gF">pic.twitter.com/9JgRG4Z7gF</a></p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1380483134014242822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's official then. Dravid's moving to Gurgaon! <a href="https://t.co/VTe9w4Wbaj">pic.twitter.com/VTe9w4Wbaj</a></p>
— Joy Bhattacharjya (@joybhattacharj) <a href="https://twitter.com/joybhattacharj/status/1380540154306195456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Am I the only one who's watching this ad on loop?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulDravid</a> took anger to another level. Damn cute!!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiraNagarkaGunda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiraNagarkaGunda</a> <a href="https://t.co/HDezuayYuy">pic.twitter.com/HDezuayYuy</a></p>
— Annesha (@Annesha31oct) <a href="https://twitter.com/Annesha31oct/status/1380554470711382016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulDravid</a><br />
Engineering students:<br />
In first semester. In final semester <a href="https://t.co/FDnfRKDcjB">pic.twitter.com/FDnfRKDcjB</a></p>
— Dipanshu (@maine_nhi_bola) <a href="https://twitter.com/maine_nhi_bola/status/1380574875132174339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulDravid</a><br />
Engineering students:<br />
In first semester. In final semester <a href="https://t.co/FDnfRKDcjB">pic.twitter.com/FDnfRKDcjB</a></p>
— Dipanshu (@maine_nhi_bola) <a href="https://twitter.com/maine_nhi_bola/status/1380574875132174339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Acting of Rahul dravid in this add is greater than the whole career of Arjun Kapoor....Agree or die <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulDravid</a> <a href="https://t.co/ynvVzSfp7W">pic.twitter.com/ynvVzSfp7W</a></p>
— Perpendicular (@Perpend92286456) <a href="https://twitter.com/Perpend92286456/status/1380551651468091395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After watching Rahul Dravid in the Cred ad<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulDravid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cred?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cred</a> <a href="https://t.co/SaoQE8HjF0">pic.twitter.com/SaoQE8HjF0</a></p>
— Manish Phore (@4amanish) <a href="https://twitter.com/4amanish/status/1380507634596343810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


A never-seen-before ‘angry’ avatar of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid has taken social media by storm. Appearing in an advertisement, Dravid was seen showing his angry side while stuck in traffic in Bengaluru.

A never-seen-before ‘angry’ avatar of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid has taken social media by storm. Appearing in an advertisement, Dravid was seen showing his angry side while stuck in traffic in Bengaluru. In an advertisement that hit the screens on Friday afternoon, just before the start of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, Dravid has managed to leave everyone shocked with his new avatar while becoming the talk of the town. The ad has gone viral like a wildfire with the 48-year-old former cricketer becoming the top-ranked trending topic on social media platform Twitter. Hashtags like #IndiraNagarKaGunda, #RahulDravid, #IndiraNagar have been trending since the ad released on Friday with Dravid winning hearts with his acting and for his new avatar. IN PICS | List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 Featuring in an ad for a Bengaluru-based credit card bill payment platform where actor Jim Sarbh is seen saying "it is like saying Rahul Dravid has anger issues" while referring to the benefits offered by the platform. Dravid then appears shouting at everyone and even breaking the side-mirror of a car standing next to him. The ad has resulted in memes flooding the internet as love and admiration for Dravid was seen all over social media platforms. The fact that Dravid doesn't do many ads caught everyone by surprise and his new avatar was the icing on the cake for everyone. TRENDING: Watch: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' side leaves Virat Kohli in surprise Here’s how Rahul Dravid’s new avatar took Twitter by storm: Never seen this side of Rahul bhai 🤯🤣 pic.twitter.com/4W93p0Gk7m — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) April 9, 2021 × Rahul bhai’s strike rate is through the roof 👏👏☺️ pic.twitter.com/9JgRG4Z7gF — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) April 9, 2021 × It's official then. Dravid's moving to Gurgaon! pic.twitter.com/VTe9w4Wbaj — Joy Bhattacharjya (@joybhattacharj) April 9, 2021 × Am I the only one who's watching this ad on loop?#RahulDravid took anger to another level. Damn cute!! #IndiraNagarkaGunda pic.twitter.com/HDezuayYuy — Annesha (@Annesha31oct) April 9, 2021 × #RahulDravid Engineering students: In first semester. In final semester pic.twitter.com/FDnfRKDcjB — Dipanshu (@maine_nhi_bola) April 9, 2021 × #RahulDravid Engineering students: In first semester. In final semester pic.twitter.com/FDnfRKDcjB — Dipanshu (@maine_nhi_bola) April 9, 2021 × Acting of Rahul dravid in this add is greater than the whole career of Arjun Kapoor....Agree or die #RahulDravid pic.twitter.com/ynvVzSfp7W — Perpendicular (@Perpend92286456) April 9, 2021 × After watching Rahul Dravid in the Cred ad#RahulDravid #Cred pic.twitter.com/SaoQE8HjF0 — Manish Phore (@4amanish) April 9, 2021 ×

#IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions

<p>MS Dhoni will be back in action as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gear up to lock horns with Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday.</p>

<p>In the build-up to the much-awaited match, Dhoni was seen launching mammoth sixes at the Wankhede Stadium. Chennai Super Kings took to social media platform Twitter to post a video of Dhoni hammering the bowlers in the nets as fans hoped they would witness the best of the former Indian captain.</p>

<h2>Here is the clip of Dhoni smashing sixes at Wankhede Stadium:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="it">Ulla vandha power adiii! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thala</a> 💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/MUXqtMKkBL">pic.twitter.com/MUXqtMKkBL</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1380742978726096903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, Dhoni and Co. would be looking to make amends in the 14th edition of IPL after failing to qualify to the playoffs for the first time in IPL history last season. CSK roped in a few big names at the auctions with the likes of Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham joining the franchise while Jason Behrendorff replaced Josh Hazlewood, who pulled out of the tournament citing COVID-19 concern.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>CSK would also welcome Suresh Raina, who missed IPL 2020 due to personal reasons. Raina is the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history behind Virat Kohli. The Chennai-based franchise would also look to have solid returns from veteran Ambati Rayudu in the batting order.</p>

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<p>While CSK have added the much-needed firepower in the batting order, it would be interesting to see whether the out-of-action players like Dhoni, Raina, Rayudu would find their form in IPL 2021.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-dc-ipl-2021-wankhede-stadium-pitch-report-venue-stats-and-mumbai-weather-forecast-all-you-need-to-know-376616" hreflang="en">CSK vs DC, IPL 2021: Wankhede Stadium pitch report, venue stats and Mumbai weather forecast - All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant would be seen leading Delhi Capitals against his mentor Dhoni, who will lead CSK. With the match being hosted by Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, it is expected to be a high-scoring game.</p>


MS Dhoni will be back in action as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gear up to lock horns with Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday.

MS Dhoni will be back in action as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gear up to lock horns with Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday. In the build-up to the much-awaited match, Dhoni was seen launching mammoth sixes at the Wankhede Stadium. Chennai Super Kings took to social media platform Twitter to post a video of Dhoni hammering the bowlers in the nets as fans hoped they would witness the best of the former Indian captain. Here is the clip of Dhoni smashing sixes at Wankhede Stadium: Ulla vandha power adiii! #Thala 💪 #WhistlePodu #Yellove @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/MUXqtMKkBL — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 10, 2021 × Meanwhile, Dhoni and Co. would be looking to make amends in the 14th edition of IPL after failing to qualify to the playoffs for the first time in IPL history last season. CSK roped in a few big names at the auctions with the likes of Moeen Ali, Krishnappa Gowtham joining the franchise while Jason Behrendorff replaced Josh Hazlewood, who pulled out of the tournament citing COVID-19 concern. IN PICS | From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 CSK would also welcome Suresh Raina, who missed IPL 2020 due to personal reasons. Raina is the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history behind Virat Kohli. The Chennai-based franchise would also look to have solid returns from veteran Ambati Rayudu in the batting order. × While CSK have added the much-needed firepower in the batting order, it would be interesting to see whether the out-of-action players like Dhoni, Raina, Rayudu would find their form in IPL 2021. ALSO READ: CSK vs DC, IPL 2021: Wankhede Stadium pitch report, venue stats and Mumbai weather forecast - All you need to know Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant would be seen leading Delhi Capitals against his mentor Dhoni, who will lead CSK. With the match being hosted by Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, it is expected to be a high-scoring game.

MS Dhoni gears up for CSK vs DC match by launching massive sixes at nets - Watch

<p>MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant will lead their respective sides Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals in match number two of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. After the season opener in Chennai, the action shifts to the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai as DC and CSK start their IPL 2021 journey on Saturday.</p>

<p>While Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in IPL history in the 2020 edition, Delhi Capitals emerged as runners-up after losing the IPL 2020 final to Mumbai Indians.</p>

<p>Both CSK and DC would be looking to get their IPL 2021 campaign off to a flying start.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-game-could-be-my-last-chris-lynn-on-running-out-captain-rohit-sharma-in-ipl-2021-opener-376596" hreflang="en">First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener</a></strong></p>

<h2>Some key stats from Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai:&nbsp;</h2>

<p><strong>T20 matches played:</strong> 73</p>

<p><strong>Matches won by teams batting first: </strong>36</p>

<p><strong>Matches won by teams batting second</strong>: 37</p>

<p><strong>Highest 1st innings score</strong>: 235/1 - Royal Challengers Bangalore vs. Mumbai Indians, 2015</p>

<p><strong>Lowest 1st innings score</strong>: 67 - Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Mumbai Indians, 2008</p>

<p><strong>Highest successful run chase:</strong> 198/7 - Mumbai Indians vs. Punjab Kings, 2019</p>

<p><strong>Average 1st innings score:</strong> 166</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<h2>Wankhede Stadium, pitch report:</h2>

<p>On normal days, CSK and DC have spin-friendly conditions at their respective home grounds in Chennai and Delhi. But with no team playing at home venue this season, both the teams are opening their campaign at Wankhede – which is known to be a batsmen’s paradise. A high-scoring match is expected.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Mumbai, weather report:</h2>

<p>According to Accuweather, there are no possibilities of rain in Mumbai on Saturday with the temperature hovering around 33 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, CSK and DC have never squared off at the Wankhede Stadium.</p>

<p>In IPL 2019, DC scored a whopping 213/6 with Rishabh Pant stealing the show with his 27-ball 78 not-out as they defeated MI by 37 runs. On the contrary, CSK failed to make a good show and folded for just 133 after MI posted 170 runs on board in IPL 2021.</p>

<p>With both teams having some exciting talents and world-class performers, the match between DC and CSK promises to be a thrilling contest and a high-scoring match is expected regardless of the previous stats.</p>


MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant will lead their respective sides Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals in match number two of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant will lead their respective sides Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals in match number two of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. After the season opener in Chennai, the action shifts to the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai as DC and CSK start their IPL 2021 journey on Saturday. While Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in IPL history in the 2020 edition, Delhi Capitals emerged as runners-up after losing the IPL 2020 final to Mumbai Indians. Both CSK and DC would be looking to get their IPL 2021 campaign off to a flying start. ALSO READ: First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener Some key stats from Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai: T20 matches played: 73 Matches won by teams batting first: 36 Matches won by teams batting second: 37 Highest 1st innings score: 235/1 - Royal Challengers Bangalore vs. Mumbai Indians, 2015 Lowest 1st innings score: 67 - Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Mumbai Indians, 2008 Highest successful run chase: 198/7 - Mumbai Indians vs. Punjab Kings, 2019 Average 1st innings score: 166 IN PICS | From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 Wankhede Stadium, pitch report: On normal days, CSK and DC have spin-friendly conditions at their respective home grounds in Chennai and Delhi. But with no team playing at home venue this season, both the teams are opening their campaign at Wankhede – which is known to be a batsmen’s paradise. A high-scoring match is expected. Mumbai, weather report: According to Accuweather, there are no possibilities of rain in Mumbai on Saturday with the temperature hovering around 33 degrees Celsius. Notably, CSK and DC have never squared off at the Wankhede Stadium. In IPL 2019, DC scored a whopping 213/6 with Rishabh Pant stealing the show with his 27-ball 78 not-out as they defeated MI by 37 runs. On the contrary, CSK failed to make a good show and folded for just 133 after MI posted 170 runs on board in IPL 2021. With both teams having some exciting talents and world-class performers, the match between DC and CSK promises to be a thrilling contest and a high-scoring match is expected regardless of the previous stats.

CSK vs DC, IPL 2021: Wankhede Stadium pitch report, venue stats and Mumbai weather forecast - All you need to know

<p>Chennai Super Kings on Friday named Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff as a replacement for Josh Hazlewood, who had earlier pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021&nbsp;citing COVID-19 concern.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The left-arm pacer will now join the MS Dhoni-led outfit for the 14th edition of IPL. Beherendorff has played 11 ODIs and seven T20Is for Australia so far and this will be his second IPL team, after representing Mumbai Indians in 2019, where he ended up with five wickets in as many matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-rabada-to-archer-key-players-set-to-miss-first-ipl-2021-match-of-their-teams-376238" hreflang="en">From Rabada to Archer - Key players set to miss first IPL 2021 match of their teams</a></strong></p>

<p>"Australian fast bowler Jason Behrendorff has signed up with the Chennai Super Kings as a replacement for compatriot Josh Hazlewood for the VIVO Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The left-arm quick has featured in 11 ODIs and seven T20Is so far," IPL said in a statement on Friday.</p>

<p>However, Beherendorff will miss CSK's IPL 2021 opener against Delhi Capitals on April 10 due to the mandatory seven-day quarantine period.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/powerful-and-experienced-squad-r-ashwin-feels-mumbai-indians-are-hot-favourites-in-ipl-2021-376232" hreflang="en">Powerful and experienced squad: R Ashwin feels Mumbai Indians are hot favourites in IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Another CSK overseas pacer Lungi Ndigi will also miss the game but the duo is expected to be back for their second match of the season.</p>

<p>IPL 2021 commences from Friday with Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings on Friday named Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff as a replacement for Josh Hazlewood, who had earlier pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 citing COVID-19 concern.

Chennai Super Kings on Friday named Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff as a replacement for Josh Hazlewood, who had earlier pulled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 citing COVID-19 concern. The left-arm pacer will now join the MS Dhoni-led outfit for the 14th edition of IPL. Beherendorff has played 11 ODIs and seven T20Is for Australia so far and this will be his second IPL team, after representing Mumbai Indians in 2019, where he ended up with five wickets in as many matches. ALSO READ: From Rabada to Archer - Key players set to miss first IPL 2021 match of their teams "Australian fast bowler Jason Behrendorff has signed up with the Chennai Super Kings as a replacement for compatriot Josh Hazlewood for the VIVO Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The left-arm quick has featured in 11 ODIs and seven T20Is so far," IPL said in a statement on Friday. However, Beherendorff will miss CSK's IPL 2021 opener against Delhi Capitals on April 10 due to the mandatory seven-day quarantine period. ALSO READ: Powerful and experienced squad: R Ashwin feels Mumbai Indians are hot favourites in IPL 2021 Another CSK overseas pacer Lungi Ndigi will also miss the game but the duo is expected to be back for their second match of the season. IPL 2021 commences from Friday with Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

IPL 2021: Chennai Super Kings rope in Australian star as replacement for Josh Hazlewood

<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to commence on Friday but franchises might have to go ahead with their respective season openers without their full-strength squads. With COVID-19 protocols and mandatory quarantine in place, some of the key players from each franchise will be missing the first match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Let us take a look at the list of names who will be missing the first match of their respective franchise.</p>

<h2>Mumbai Indians</h2>

<p>The defending champions are set to miss key opener Quinton de Kock and pacer Adam Milne. The two overseas players landed in India early this week and are yet to complete their seven-day quarantine. The duo won’t be available for IPL 2021 opener on Friday.</p>

<h2>Delhi Capitals</h2>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-to-wion-delhi-capitals-captaincy-will-help-rishabh-pant-reach-his-potential-376136" hreflang="en">VVS Laxman to WION: DC captaincy will help Rishabh Pant</a></strong></p>

<p>Fast bowling duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje will be missing Delhi Capitals’ opening match against Chennai Super Kings on April 10. The South Africa pacers are undergoing quarantine for a week and are likely to be a part of the playing XI in DC’s match on April 15 versus Rajasthan Royals. Axar Patel, who had tested positive for COVID-19, is also expected to miss DC’s first match.</p>

<h2>Royal Challengers Bangalore</h2>

<p>Australian spinner Adam Zampa will be an absentee from RCB’s season opener due to his marriage. Whereas New Zealand opener Finn Allen will also miss the match due to the mandatory seven-day quarantine period.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Chennai Super Kings</h2>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mi-vs-rcb-virats-royal-challengers-to-lock-horns-with-rohits-mumbai-indians-376154" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Preview, probable XI and stats</a></strong></p>

<p>South African pacer Lungi Ngidi will miss CSK’s season opener similar to Delhi Capitals’ Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada. The Proteas pacer is undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine after arriving in India early this week.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Rajasthan Royals</h2>

<p>England pacer Jofra Archer will miss a few matches due to his finger injury. However, there aren’t any more absentees from the RR squad and the Sanju Samson-led outfit will have their full-strength squad sans Archer available.</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to commence on Friday but franchises might have to go ahead with their respective season openers without their full-strength squads.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to commence on Friday but franchises might have to go ahead with their respective season openers without their full-strength squads. With COVID-19 protocols and mandatory quarantine in place, some of the key players from each franchise will be missing the first match. Let us take a look at the list of names who will be missing the first match of their respective franchise. Mumbai Indians The defending champions are set to miss key opener Quinton de Kock and pacer Adam Milne. The two overseas players landed in India early this week and are yet to complete their seven-day quarantine. The duo won’t be available for IPL 2021 opener on Friday. Delhi Capitals ALSO READ: VVS Laxman to WION: DC captaincy will help Rishabh Pant Fast bowling duo of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje will be missing Delhi Capitals’ opening match against Chennai Super Kings on April 10. The South Africa pacers are undergoing quarantine for a week and are likely to be a part of the playing XI in DC’s match on April 15 versus Rajasthan Royals. Axar Patel, who had tested positive for COVID-19, is also expected to miss DC’s first match. Royal Challengers Bangalore Australian spinner Adam Zampa will be an absentee from RCB’s season opener due to his marriage. Whereas New Zealand opener Finn Allen will also miss the match due to the mandatory seven-day quarantine period. Chennai Super Kings ALSO READ: IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Preview, probable XI and stats South African pacer Lungi Ngidi will miss CSK’s season opener similar to Delhi Capitals’ Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada. The Proteas pacer is undergoing a mandatory seven-day quarantine after arriving in India early this week. Rajasthan Royals England pacer Jofra Archer will miss a few matches due to his finger injury. However, there aren’t any more absentees from the RR squad and the Sanju Samson-led outfit will have their full-strength squad sans Archer available.

From Rabada to Archer - Key players set to miss first IPL 2021 match of their teams

<p class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will start as hot favourites in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to start on Friday. The Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians are eyeing a hat-trick of IPL wins after winning their fifth trophy in the year 2020. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Analysing Mumbai Indians, Ashwin said that while every team has its area of strength, MI’s experience and power-packed line-up make them stand out from their competitors. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Every team is strong, and I am not making a diplomatic statement. But I definitely think Mumbai has got a powerful and experienced squad. Mumbai will always start as favourites in this competition. I think Mumbai is the team to beat,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mumbai-indians-team-preview-a-dream-hat-trick-on-cards-for-rohit-sharma-and-co-375947" hreflang="en">IPL 2021, MI - Team Preview: A dream hat-trick on cards for Rohit and Co.?</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While lavishing praises on Mumbai Indians, Ashwin also backed his side Delhi Capitals to carry the confidence of last season. The veteran spinner backed DC to perform well in the 14<sup>th</sup> edition of the cash-rich tournament.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Good (On DC’s chances), well-balanced one. Last year, our batting did not come well together. It was understandable due to lockdown and all that. But this year, in the kind of form in which Rishabh is, definitely that (team’s batting) also will get sorted out,” he stated.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“We have a good chance. But if you see the last few years, it is not always about the top two or three sides. Every team picks players judiciously and have good balance and options. The IPL is in a new caravan model, so conditions also will play a part,” Ashwin added.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-to-wion-delhi-capitals-captaincy-will-help-rishabh-pant-reach-his-potential-376136" hreflang="en">VVS Laxman to WION: DC captaincy will help Rishabh Pant</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The IPL 2021 is set to be kick-started on April 9 with Mumbai Indians locking horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore in the season opener in Chennai.<o:p></o:p></p>


Delhi Capitals spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will start as hot favourites in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to start on Friday.

Delhi Capitals spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has said that defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will start as hot favourites in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, set to start on Friday. The Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians are eyeing a hat-trick of IPL wins after winning their fifth trophy in the year 2020. Analysing Mumbai Indians, Ashwin said that while every team has its area of strength, MI’s experience and power-packed line-up make them stand out from their competitors. “Every team is strong, and I am not making a diplomatic statement. But I definitely think Mumbai has got a powerful and experienced squad. Mumbai will always start as favourites in this competition. I think Mumbai is the team to beat,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ: IPL 2021, MI - Team Preview: A dream hat-trick on cards for Rohit and Co.? While lavishing praises on Mumbai Indians, Ashwin also backed his side Delhi Capitals to carry the confidence of last season. The veteran spinner backed DC to perform well in the 14th edition of the cash-rich tournament. “Good (On DC’s chances), well-balanced one. Last year, our batting did not come well together. It was understandable due to lockdown and all that. But this year, in the kind of form in which Rishabh is, definitely that (team’s batting) also will get sorted out,” he stated. “We have a good chance. But if you see the last few years, it is not always about the top two or three sides. Every team picks players judiciously and have good balance and options. The IPL is in a new caravan model, so conditions also will play a part,” Ashwin added. ALSO READ: VVS Laxman to WION: DC captaincy will help Rishabh Pant The IPL 2021 is set to be kick-started on April 9 with Mumbai Indians locking horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore in the season opener in Chennai.

Powerful and experienced squad: R Ashwin feels Mumbai Indians are hot favourites in IPL 2021

<p>Rory McIlroy struck his father with a wayward shot in Thursday's opening round of the Masters on the way to his worst start at Augusta National, a four-over par 76.</p>

<p>The 31-year-old from Northern Ireland, a four-time major winner, can complete a career Grand Slam with a Masters triumph, but he has been working on his swing and struggling to find consistency.</p>

<p>Summing up his issues was his second shot at the par-4 seventh hole, with McIlroy slightly behind a tree to the left and coming off back-to-back bogeys.</p>

<p>Trying to bend his approach around a tree, McIlroy instead sliced the ball well right, the errant ball striking his father on the back of a leg as he was walking to the green.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rory McIlroy hit his dad with an errant approach shot on No. 7 during the first round of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/theMasters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#theMasters</a> <a href="https://t.co/uEle8iqeyR">pic.twitter.com/uEle8iqeyR</a></p>
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) <a href="https://twitter.com/PGATOUR/status/1380238969422675971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I should ask for an autographed glove," the elder McIlroy joked.</p>

<p>Rory McIlroy joked that he might sign something that would come in more useful to heal his dad's sore calf.</p>

<p>"He has seen me sign plenty of stuff over the years, so I think that's the least of his worries," the younger McIlroy said.</p>

<p>"I think he just needs to go and put some ice on -- maybe I'll autograph a bag of frozen peas for him."</p>

<p>McIlroy, whose worst prior Masters start was last year's 75, had already seen his father down the right side and was aiming at him with plans for the ball to curl back toward the green, which it didn't do, setting up a third bogey in a row.</p>

<p>"I knew it was my dad when I was aiming at him," McIlroy said.</p>

<p>"In fairness, I was trying to turn it off. It was a perfect shot. It was dead straight.</p>

<p>"But I think he was OK. He didn't limp away. He walked away pretty swiftly so that was all right."</p>

<p>McIlroy's problems aren't as easy to walk off. He hasn't won since 2019 in Shanghai and hasn't won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship.</p>

<p>"It still didn't feel quite 100% but I was encouraged by some of the stuff I saw out there," McIlroy said of a round that featured six bogeys and two birdies.</p>

<h2>- 'I hung in there' -</h2>

<p>Swing coach Pete Cowen is trying to simplify McIlroy's swing motion, but changes aren't simple.</p>

<p>"Any time you're working on things with your swing, it's going to feel very different, but it's not as if I haven't done these things before," McIlroy said.</p>

<p>"That's the thing. It's like you get into these bad habits and that feels normal, and then you get it back into position where I've been a million times before and it just feels a little different."</p>

<p>Firm and fast conditions had many of the world's top players scrambling.</p>

<p>"I hung in there, hit some good shots coming in. I'm quite encouraged by the way I hit it on the way in," McIlroy said.</p>

<p>"Could have made a couple more birdies, but it's not as if anyone is going really low.</p>

<p>"The par-5s you can birdie but then you have to be happy with giving yourself 25-, 30-footers every time. If you can do that, you've played a really good round of golf."</p>


Rory McIlroy struck his father with a wayward shot in Thursday's opening round of the Masters on the way to his worst start at Augusta National, a four-over par 76.

Rory McIlroy struck his father with a wayward shot in Thursday's opening round of the Masters on the way to his worst start at Augusta National, a four-over par 76. The 31-year-old from Northern Ireland, a four-time major winner, can complete a career Grand Slam with a Masters triumph, but he has been working on his swing and struggling to find consistency. Summing up his issues was his second shot at the par-4 seventh hole, with McIlroy slightly behind a tree to the left and coming off back-to-back bogeys. Trying to bend his approach around a tree, McIlroy instead sliced the ball well right, the errant ball striking his father on the back of a leg as he was walking to the green. Rory McIlroy hit his dad with an errant approach shot on No. 7 during the first round of #theMasters pic.twitter.com/uEle8iqeyR — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 8, 2021 × "I should ask for an autographed glove," the elder McIlroy joked. Rory McIlroy joked that he might sign something that would come in more useful to heal his dad's sore calf. "He has seen me sign plenty of stuff over the years, so I think that's the least of his worries," the younger McIlroy said. "I think he just needs to go and put some ice on -- maybe I'll autograph a bag of frozen peas for him." McIlroy, whose worst prior Masters start was last year's 75, had already seen his father down the right side and was aiming at him with plans for the ball to curl back toward the green, which it didn't do, setting up a third bogey in a row. "I knew it was my dad when I was aiming at him," McIlroy said. "In fairness, I was trying to turn it off. It was a perfect shot. It was dead straight. "But I think he was OK. He didn't limp away. He walked away pretty swiftly so that was all right." McIlroy's problems aren't as easy to walk off. He hasn't won since 2019 in Shanghai and hasn't won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship. "It still didn't feel quite 100% but I was encouraged by some of the stuff I saw out there," McIlroy said of a round that featured six bogeys and two birdies. - 'I hung in there' - Swing coach Pete Cowen is trying to simplify McIlroy's swing motion, but changes aren't simple. "Any time you're working on things with your swing, it's going to feel very different, but it's not as if I haven't done these things before," McIlroy said. "That's the thing. It's like you get into these bad habits and that feels normal, and then you get it back into position where I've been a million times before and it just feels a little different." Firm and fast conditions had many of the world's top players scrambling. "I hung in there, hit some good shots coming in. I'm quite encouraged by the way I hit it on the way in," McIlroy said. "Could have made a couple more birdies, but it's not as if anyone is going really low. "The par-5s you can birdie but then you have to be happy with giving yourself 25-, 30-footers every time. If you can do that, you've played a really good round of golf."

Watch: McIlroy hits dad with errant shot in Masters meltdown

<p>Kenya on Thursday started vaccinating its Olympic athletes against Covid-19, paving the way to compete in the Tokyo Games.</p>

<p>All the 75 athletes in the Olympic team bubble at Nairobi's Kasarani stadium were vaccinated on Thursday, in an exercise which will also cover the Paralympic teams, rugby sevens and the officials working with Kenya Safari Rally preparations.</p>

<p>"It's critical that the athletes are vaccinated against Covid 19. We are now waiting for the current lockdown to end so that the athletes can race in competitive team events," National Olympic Committee of Kenya general secretary Francis Mutuku told AFP.</p>

<p>Kenya, a world athletics superpower, hopes to take a team of 100 athletes to the rescheduled Tokyo games which will be held between July 23 and August 8.</p>

<p>Kenya finished 15th and as the top African nation at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, with a total of 13 medals: six gold, six silver and one bronze.</p>

<p>Mutuku said all the Olympic hopefuls will be required to take part in the vaccination process which is targetting a total of 3,500 athletes, coaches, officials and handlers across the country ahead of the Olympics and Paralympics and the Safari rally, which acts as the sixth round of the World Rally championships scheduled for June 24-27.</p>


Kenya on Thursday started vaccinating its Olympic athletes against Covid-19, paving the way to compete in the Tokyo Games. All the 75 athletes in the Olympic team bubble at Nairobi's Kasarani stadium were vaccinated on Thursday, in an exercise which will also cover the Paralympic teams, rugby sevens and the officials working with Kenya Safari Rally preparations.

Kenya on Thursday started vaccinating its Olympic athletes against Covid-19, paving the way to compete in the Tokyo Games. All the 75 athletes in the Olympic team bubble at Nairobi's Kasarani stadium were vaccinated on Thursday, in an exercise which will also cover the Paralympic teams, rugby sevens and the officials working with Kenya Safari Rally preparations. "It's critical that the athletes are vaccinated against Covid 19. We are now waiting for the current lockdown to end so that the athletes can race in competitive team events," National Olympic Committee of Kenya general secretary Francis Mutuku told AFP. Kenya, a world athletics superpower, hopes to take a team of 100 athletes to the rescheduled Tokyo games which will be held between July 23 and August 8. Kenya finished 15th and as the top African nation at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, with a total of 13 medals: six gold, six silver and one bronze. Mutuku said all the Olympic hopefuls will be required to take part in the vaccination process which is targetting a total of 3,500 athletes, coaches, officials and handlers across the country ahead of the Olympics and Paralympics and the Safari rally, which acts as the sixth round of the World Rally championships scheduled for June 24-27.

Kenya starts vaccinating Olympic athletes

<p>English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps.</p>

<p>Three Swansea players -- Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Jamal Lowe -- have all been racially abused online recently.</p>

<p>Liverpool trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Naby Keita and Sadio Mane became the latest in a long list of players to be targeted after Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first-leg loss to Real Madrid.</p>

<p>Swansea have written to Facebook and Twitter calling for tougher punishments for those found guilty of posting "cowardly" abuse.</p>

<p>"From 5:00 pm (1600 GMT) today all first-team players, those in the academy professional phase, Swansea City Ladies, Community Trust, senior club staff and official club channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok) will not post any content for a period of seven days," the club said in a statement.</p>

<p>"As a close and diverse group of players, this is something we all feel extremely passionate about," said Swansea captain Matt Grimes.</p>

<p>"Three of our squad have been racially abused in recent weeks and, as a squad and club, we wanted to take this stance as we again call on those at the forefront of social media companies to implement the change that is needed now and in the future."</p>

<p>Fellow Championship side Birmingham and Scottish Premiership team Rangers later announced they were also launching week-long boycotts.</p>

<p>"The club stands in solidarity with Swansea City Football Club who first announced their intention to operate a social media blackout earlier today, with this fight going beyond sporting rivalries and one that must be tackled in unison," said a statement on Birmingham's website.</p>

<p>Rangers said they were concerned with the "daily racist abuse our players have to endure", adding there was concern that levels of hate were spiralling out of control.</p>


English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps.

English Championship side Swansea City announced on Thursday they were boycotting social media for a week in protest against online abuse and discrimination, with Birmingham and Rangers taking similar steps. Three Swansea players -- Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Jamal Lowe -- have all been racially abused online recently. Liverpool trio Trent Alexander-Arnold, Naby Keita and Sadio Mane became the latest in a long list of players to be targeted after Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first-leg loss to Real Madrid. Swansea have written to Facebook and Twitter calling for tougher punishments for those found guilty of posting "cowardly" abuse. "From 5:00 pm (1600 GMT) today all first-team players, those in the academy professional phase, Swansea City Ladies, Community Trust, senior club staff and official club channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok) will not post any content for a period of seven days," the club said in a statement. "As a close and diverse group of players, this is something we all feel extremely passionate about," said Swansea captain Matt Grimes. "Three of our squad have been racially abused in recent weeks and, as a squad and club, we wanted to take this stance as we again call on those at the forefront of social media companies to implement the change that is needed now and in the future." Fellow Championship side Birmingham and Scottish Premiership team Rangers later announced they were also launching week-long boycotts. "The club stands in solidarity with Swansea City Football Club who first announced their intention to operate a social media blackout earlier today, with this fight going beyond sporting rivalries and one that must be tackled in unison," said a statement on Birmingham's website. Rangers said they were concerned with the "daily racist abuse our players have to endure", adding there was concern that levels of hate were spiralling out of control.

Rangers join Swansea social media boycott to tackle online abuse

<p>Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday.</p>

<p>Substitute Nicolas Pepe had broken the deadlock for Arsenal in the 86th minute after a night of glaring misses for the home side in the first leg of the tie.</p>

<p>But Tomas Holes headed in a last-gasp equaliser to demoralise Mikel Arteta's men and leave the contest finely poised ahead of next week's return leg in Prague.</p>

<p>"The game is under control, we had got the goal we wanted, but we put ourselves on the back foot," a frustrated Arteta told BT Sport.</p>

<p>"We conceded a corner, they put bodies in the box and anything can happen. Of course it changes the feeling after the game."</p>

<p>He said his late substitutions changed the contest but his side did not capitalise.</p>

<p>"They are a good opponent and really difficult to play against," he added. "Now we need to go there and win the game. We've done it in the past and we're sure we can do it again."</p>

<p>Arsenal are realistically out of the running to finish in the top four of the Premier League, meaning they must win the second-tier European League to reach next season's Champions League.</p>

<p>They came into the match at the Emirates after a chastening 3-0 defeat against Liverpool last weekend left them stuck in mid-table in the English top-flight.</p>

<p>Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were passed fit to start but captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was dropped to the bench.</p>

<p>Saka, who missed the Liverpool defeat, was a regular threat down the Arsenal right but his delivery into the box was poor.</p>

<p>The England international missed a golden chance to break the deadlock when he steered wide with only goalkeeper Ondrej Kolar to beat and Rob Holding forced a fine save with a header.</p>

<p>The visitors' only real chance of the opening period came when Lukas Provod fired just over following a Slavia raid down the right.</p>

<p>Arsenal came agonisingly close to taking the lead early in the second half when Willian -- still seeking his first goal for the club -- struck the outside of the post from a free-kick.</p>

<h2>- Lacazette miss -</h2>

<p>Just after the hour mark Arsenal should have been ahead when forward Alexandre Lacazette stole the ball from the last defender near the half-way line and charged forward with only the goalkeeper to beat.</p>

<p>The France international opened up his body and looked certain to score but overhit his shot and it came back off the crossbar.</p>

<p>Arteta shook his team up with a number of substitutions, throwing on Aubameyang, Pepe and Mohamed Elneny together in the 78th minute and it almost reaped immediate dividends but Aubameyang steered wide.</p>

<p>Suddenly Arsenal were playing with more the tempo and substitute Gabriel Martinelli forced a fine save from Kolar.</p>

<p>The home side finally got the breakthrough they deserved when Aubameyang fed the ball to club-record signing Pepe, who raced into the box and dinked the ball over the goalkeeper.</p>

<p>Arsenal looked set to travel to the away leg with the advantage but the Czechs, who had seen off Leicester and Rangers in previous rounds, poured forward and Leno turned a Provod shot onto the post and behind.</p>

<p>The resulting corner made its way through to Holes, who stooped to head home at the back post in the 93rd minute.</p>


Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday.

Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday. Substitute Nicolas Pepe had broken the deadlock for Arsenal in the 86th minute after a night of glaring misses for the home side in the first leg of the tie. But Tomas Holes headed in a last-gasp equaliser to demoralise Mikel Arteta's men and leave the contest finely poised ahead of next week's return leg in Prague. "The game is under control, we had got the goal we wanted, but we put ourselves on the back foot," a frustrated Arteta told BT Sport. "We conceded a corner, they put bodies in the box and anything can happen. Of course it changes the feeling after the game." He said his late substitutions changed the contest but his side did not capitalise. "They are a good opponent and really difficult to play against," he added. "Now we need to go there and win the game. We've done it in the past and we're sure we can do it again." Arsenal are realistically out of the running to finish in the top four of the Premier League, meaning they must win the second-tier European League to reach next season's Champions League. They came into the match at the Emirates after a chastening 3-0 defeat against Liverpool last weekend left them stuck in mid-table in the English top-flight. Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were passed fit to start but captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was dropped to the bench. Saka, who missed the Liverpool defeat, was a regular threat down the Arsenal right but his delivery into the box was poor. The England international missed a golden chance to break the deadlock when he steered wide with only goalkeeper Ondrej Kolar to beat and Rob Holding forced a fine save with a header. The visitors' only real chance of the opening period came when Lukas Provod fired just over following a Slavia raid down the right. Arsenal came agonisingly close to taking the lead early in the second half when Willian -- still seeking his first goal for the club -- struck the outside of the post from a free-kick. - Lacazette miss - Just after the hour mark Arsenal should have been ahead when forward Alexandre Lacazette stole the ball from the last defender near the half-way line and charged forward with only the goalkeeper to beat. The France international opened up his body and looked certain to score but overhit his shot and it came back off the crossbar. Arteta shook his team up with a number of substitutions, throwing on Aubameyang, Pepe and Mohamed Elneny together in the 78th minute and it almost reaped immediate dividends but Aubameyang steered wide. Suddenly Arsenal were playing with more the tempo and substitute Gabriel Martinelli forced a fine save from Kolar. The home side finally got the breakthrough they deserved when Aubameyang fed the ball to club-record signing Pepe, who raced into the box and dinked the ball over the goalkeeper. Arsenal looked set to travel to the away leg with the advantage but the Czechs, who had seen off Leicester and Rangers in previous rounds, poured forward and Leno turned a Provod shot onto the post and behind. The resulting corner made its way through to Holes, who stooped to head home at the back post in the 93rd minute.

Last-gasp Slavia leave Arsenal's Europa League hopes in balance

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