Delhi Daredevils snapped their five-match losing streak with a comfortable six wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad and mathematically remained in the race for the IPL play-offs here tonight.

Yuvraj Singh scored a timely 70, his second half-century of the season, and raised a 93-run stand with Moises Henriques (25) to lead the visitors to a challenging 185 for three after being asked to bat.

The hosts, who have been enduring a tough season with one defeat after another, then came up with an inspiring collective batting show to stun the defending champions with five balls to spare.

Each and every Delhi batsman, who took strike, contributed in the win. The openers Karun Nair (39) and Sanju Samson (24) scored 40 runs in first four overs to provide a decent start and the batsmen who followed them 
built on the momentum.

Rishabh Pant (34) and Shreyas Iyer (33) batted with dogged determination to ensure that the required run-rate never go out of hands.

Nair was dropped on 20 by Bhuvneshwar Kumar but the Daredevils stand-in captain could not make full use of the life and was dismissed by Siddarth Kaul.

Runs came at a good pace for the hosts with young batsmen batting sensibly. They needed 61 from last seven overs and with Anderson and Iyer at the crease, it was not a big task. However, Iyer was dismissed by 
Bhuvneshwar.

Since the Delhi batsmen lost wickets after getting their eyes in, it kept Sunrisers&#39; hopes alive but gradually the required run rate dropped and Corey Anderson (41 not out) finished the match in company of Chris Morris (15 not out).

With this win, which is their third, Daredevils lifted themselves to the sixth spot from the earlier bottom place with five more matches to play while Sunrisers remained on third spot with 13 points.

Incidentally, Daredevils&#39; last win had come at this very ground against Kings XI Punjab.

SRH were off to a flying to start through skipper David Warner (30) and Shikhar Dhawan (28) but Delhi spin duo of Amit Mishra and Jayant Yadav managed to choke the defending champions in the middle overs.

Sanju Samson dropped Yuvraj on 29 and the dashing left-hander exploited it to get some crucial runs for his side. After making 62 against RCB in his first match, he was struggling for runs and found touch when the team needed.

He took some time to settle down on a slow pitch but gradually stroked the ball nicely. His 70 came off 41 balls with 11 fours and a six.

In the last three overs, Sunrisers collected 52 runs with Kagiso Rabada leaking 39 runs in 18th and 20th overs. Earlier, Mishra played a crucial role in choking the Hyderabad batsmen as he gave away only 23 runs in his four overs and also got rid of Dhawan.

Jayant Yadav, included in place of Shahbaz Nadeem, also did a great job by conceding only 26 runs in his four overs.

Warner began from where he left against KKR, striking the ball confidently. He found boundaries off Yadav and Rabada with remarkable ease.

Dhawan also was in tremendous touch as he creamed off two fours and a six off Chris Morris. The SRH openers were never troubled by the home bowlers. Warner smashed one from Mohammed Shami to mid-wicket boundary to raise the team&#39;s fifty.

However, Shami took revenge in the next ball with a well- placed yorker that uprooted Warner&#39;s off stump. Mishra has not bowled during Power Play overs this season and the trend continued. He bowled the ninth over and struck in second ball as Dhawan top-edged the googly to Shreyas Iyer, who covered good distance to take the catch.

The two wickets affected the run flow but the visitors still put on board 83 at half-way mark as Kane Williamson (24) found a few boundaries.

Tight overs by Morris, Mishra and Yadav, created pressure and Williamson, trying to break free, went for a pull off Shami bouncer but only top-edged it to Morris.

There was gap of 15 balls when no boundary was struck. Yuvraj finally found one off Shami and it raised the team&#39;s 100 in 13.2 overs.

Runs were still tough to come by for SRH with Yuvraj and Henriques managing only singles and doubles. Yuvraj though changed the script after being dropped. 
 
(PTI) 
&nbsp;

The hosts, who have been enduring a tough season with one defeat after another, came up with an inspiring collective batting show

Delhi Daredevils snapped their five-match losing streak with a comfortable six wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad and mathematically remained in the race for the IPL play-offs here tonight. Yuvraj Singh scored a timely 70, his second half-century of the season, and raised a 93-run stand with Moises Henriques (25) to lead the visitors to a challenging 185 for three after being asked to bat. The hosts, who have been enduring a tough season with one defeat after another, then came up with an inspiring collective batting show to stun the defending champions with five balls to spare. Each and every Delhi batsman, who took strike, contributed in the win. The openers Karun Nair (39) and Sanju Samson (24) scored 40 runs in first four overs to provide a decent start and the batsmen who followed them built on the momentum. Rishabh Pant (34) and Shreyas Iyer (33) batted with dogged determination to ensure that the required run-rate never go out of hands. Nair was dropped on 20 by Bhuvneshwar Kumar but the Daredevils stand-in captain could not make full use of the life and was dismissed by Siddarth Kaul. Runs came at a good pace for the hosts with young batsmen batting sensibly. They needed 61 from last seven overs and with Anderson and Iyer at the crease, it was not a big task. However, Iyer was dismissed by Bhuvneshwar. Since the Delhi batsmen lost wickets after getting their eyes in, it kept Sunrisers' hopes alive but gradually the required run rate dropped and Corey Anderson (41 not out) finished the match in company of Chris Morris (15 not out). With this win, which is their third, Daredevils lifted themselves to the sixth spot from the earlier bottom place with five more matches to play while Sunrisers remained on third spot with 13 points. Incidentally, Daredevils' last win had come at this very ground against Kings XI Punjab. SRH were off to a flying to start through skipper David Warner (30) and Shikhar Dhawan (28) but Delhi spin duo of Amit Mishra and Jayant Yadav managed to choke the defending champions in the middle overs. Sanju Samson dropped Yuvraj on 29 and the dashing left-hander exploited it to get some crucial runs for his side. After making 62 against RCB in his first match, he was struggling for runs and found touch when the team needed. He took some time to settle down on a slow pitch but gradually stroked the ball nicely. His 70 came off 41 balls with 11 fours and a six. In the last three overs, Sunrisers collected 52 runs with Kagiso Rabada leaking 39 runs in 18th and 20th overs. Earlier, Mishra played a crucial role in choking the Hyderabad batsmen as he gave away only 23 runs in his four overs and also got rid of Dhawan. Jayant Yadav, included in place of Shahbaz Nadeem, also did a great job by conceding only 26 runs in his four overs. Warner began from where he left against KKR, striking the ball confidently. He found boundaries off Yadav and Rabada with remarkable ease. Dhawan also was in tremendous touch as he creamed off two fours and a six off Chris Morris. The SRH openers were never troubled by the home bowlers. Warner smashed one from Mohammed Shami to mid-wicket boundary to raise the team's fifty. However, Shami took revenge in the next ball with a well- placed yorker that uprooted Warner's off stump. Mishra has not bowled during Power Play overs this season and the trend continued. He bowled the ninth over and struck in second ball as Dhawan top-edged the googly to Shreyas Iyer, who covered good distance to take the catch. The two wickets affected the run flow but the visitors still put on board 83 at half-way mark as Kane Williamson (24) found a few boundaries. Tight overs by Morris, Mishra and Yadav, created pressure and Williamson, trying to break free, went for a pull off Shami bouncer but only top-edged it to Morris. There was gap of 15 balls when no boundary was struck. Yuvraj finally found one off Shami and it raised the team's 100 in 13.2 overs. Runs were still tough to come by for SRH with Yuvraj and Henriques managing only singles and doubles. Yuvraj though changed the script after being dropped. (PTI)

IPL: Delhi Daredevils snap losing streak, stun Sunrisers Hyderabad with 6-wicket win

Swashbuckling opener David Warner smashed a whirlwind century to guide Sunrisers Hyderabad to a comfortable 48-run win over table-toppers Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL encounter here today.

Warner butchered the KKR bowlers with a 59-ball 126-run innings, studded with 10 fours and 8 sixes to power defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad to an imposing 209-3 after captain Gautam Gambhir decided to bowl.

Chasing the target, KKR were reduced to 12-2 in 2.3 overs with both their openers -- Gambhir (11) and Sunil Narine (1) back to the pavillion.

Robin Uthappa (53) and Manish Pandey (39) then shared a 78-run partnership off 51 balls for the 3rd wicket to keep KKR in the hunt.

After their dismissal, Yusuf Pathan (12), Sheldon Jackson (16) and Colin de Grandhomme (18) tried their hands but it was not enough in the end as KKR were restricted to 161-7 in stipulated 20 overs.

For Sunrisers, Mohammed Siraj (2/26), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/29) and Siddharth Kaul (2/26) took two wickets each, while Rashid Khan (1/38) also contributed with one wicket.

There was also a rain-interruption of 42 minutes when KKR were 52-2 in 7 overs with Uthappa and Pandey at the crease but it didn&#39;t affect the match as no overs were lost.

This was Sunrisers&#39; sixth win in 10 matches. They now have 13 points and are placed at the third spot in the table. For two-time champions and table-toppers KKR, it is only their third loss in 10 matches.

With this win, Sunrisers also avenged their 17-run loss to KKR in their previous outing.

Earlier, Warner and Shikhar Dhawan (29), who had forged a 107-run opening partnership in their last match against KXIP, produced yet another scintillating 139-run opening stand in 76 balls to set up the foundation for a huge total.

Once they were back into the hut, Kane Williamson (40) blasted five fours in his 25-ball innings and alongwith Yuvraj Singh (6 not out) took Sunrisers across the 200-mark.

This was the highest total in this season and also the third time that Sunrisers have scored a 200-plus total. They had scored 207-3 against Kings XI Punjab in their last match, besides scoring 207-4 against RCB early in the season.

For KKR, who are sitting pretty at the top of the table, none of the bowlers could make any impression as they were taken to the cleaners by Warner.

Opening the innings, Warner put KKR bowlers to the sword as he alongwith Dhawan amassed 79-0 in the Powerplay overs.

Warner made his intention clear from the start by dealing in boundaries. He picked up Chris Woakes for special treatment in the 3rd over when he blasted him for a four and a couple of sixes to amass 17 runs.

Yusuf Pathan then came in his firing line as he smashed two fours and a six to once again pile on 17 runs and bring up the team fifty in just 23 balls.

The Australian then switch-hit Sunil Narine over short third man to score his 50 in 20 balls. He then punching him through cover for a four.

He continued his rampage and brought up the team 100 in the ninth over by hammering Nathan Coulter-Nile for a maximum over midwicket in the fourth ball.

Kuldeep Yadav then bled 18 runs as Warner clobbered one boundary and two sixes in the 10th over.

In the 11th over, Warner picked up a couple of runs by sending Umesh Yadav to the deep midwicket area to score the third century of this season. He took just 43 balls for his hundred.

In the 13th over, Dhawan (29), who was playing the second fiddle, was run out as KKR finally broke the opening partnership.

It was Kuldeep Yadav, who produced a brilliant fielding where he picked up the ball and threw the stumps down at the bowler&#39;s end after Dhawan failed to make the ground.

Warner&#39;s sensational innings came to an end in the 17th over when once again looking for a six off Woakes he was holed out by Gambhir.

Kane Williamson (40) and Yuvraj Singh (6) then took Sunrisers across the 200-mark.&nbsp;

(PTI) 
&nbsp;

David Warner butchered the KKR bowlers with a 59-ball 126-run innings, studded with 10 fours and 8 sixes

Swashbuckling opener David Warner smashed a whirlwind century to guide Sunrisers Hyderabad to a comfortable 48-run win over table-toppers Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL encounter here today. Warner butchered the KKR bowlers with a 59-ball 126-run innings, studded with 10 fours and 8 sixes to power defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad to an imposing 209-3 after captain Gautam Gambhir decided to bowl. Chasing the target, KKR were reduced to 12-2 in 2.3 overs with both their openers -- Gambhir (11) and Sunil Narine (1) back to the pavillion. Robin Uthappa (53) and Manish Pandey (39) then shared a 78-run partnership off 51 balls for the 3rd wicket to keep KKR in the hunt. After their dismissal, Yusuf Pathan (12), Sheldon Jackson (16) and Colin de Grandhomme (18) tried their hands but it was not enough in the end as KKR were restricted to 161-7 in stipulated 20 overs. For Sunrisers, Mohammed Siraj (2/26), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/29) and Siddharth Kaul (2/26) took two wickets each, while Rashid Khan (1/38) also contributed with one wicket. There was also a rain-interruption of 42 minutes when KKR were 52-2 in 7 overs with Uthappa and Pandey at the crease but it didn't affect the match as no overs were lost. This was Sunrisers' sixth win in 10 matches. They now have 13 points and are placed at the third spot in the table. For two-time champions and table-toppers KKR, it is only their third loss in 10 matches. With this win, Sunrisers also avenged their 17-run loss to KKR in their previous outing. Earlier, Warner and Shikhar Dhawan (29), who had forged a 107-run opening partnership in their last match against KXIP, produced yet another scintillating 139-run opening stand in 76 balls to set up the foundation for a huge total. Once they were back into the hut, Kane Williamson (40) blasted five fours in his 25-ball innings and alongwith Yuvraj Singh (6 not out) took Sunrisers across the 200-mark. This was the highest total in this season and also the third time that Sunrisers have scored a 200-plus total. They had scored 207-3 against Kings XI Punjab in their last match, besides scoring 207-4 against RCB early in the season. For KKR, who are sitting pretty at the top of the table, none of the bowlers could make any impression as they were taken to the cleaners by Warner. Opening the innings, Warner put KKR bowlers to the sword as he alongwith Dhawan amassed 79-0 in the Powerplay overs. Warner made his intention clear from the start by dealing in boundaries. He picked up Chris Woakes for special treatment in the 3rd over when he blasted him for a four and a couple of sixes to amass 17 runs. Yusuf Pathan then came in his firing line as he smashed two fours and a six to once again pile on 17 runs and bring up the team fifty in just 23 balls. The Australian then switch-hit Sunil Narine over short third man to score his 50 in 20 balls. He then punching him through cover for a four. He continued his rampage and brought up the team 100 in the ninth over by hammering Nathan Coulter-Nile for a maximum over midwicket in the fourth ball. Kuldeep Yadav then bled 18 runs as Warner clobbered one boundary and two sixes in the 10th over. In the 11th over, Warner picked up a couple of runs by sending Umesh Yadav to the deep midwicket area to score the third century of this season. He took just 43 balls for his hundred. In the 13th over, Dhawan (29), who was playing the second fiddle, was run out as KKR finally broke the opening partnership. It was Kuldeep Yadav, who produced a brilliant fielding where he picked up the ball and threw the stumps down at the bowler's end after Dhawan failed to make the ground. Warner's sensational innings came to an end in the 17th over when once again looking for a six off Woakes he was holed out by Gambhir. Kane Williamson (40) and Yuvraj Singh (6) then took Sunrisers across the 200-mark. (PTI)

IPL 2017: Warner's 126 sets up Sunrisers Hyderabad's 48-run win over KKR

Sunrisers Hyderabad&#39;s top-order batted with aplomb before the bowlers delivered the goods as the defending champions registered an emphatic 26-run win over struggling Kings XI Punjab, here tonight. 
 
Half-centuries from openers Shikhar Dhawan (77), David Warner (51) and Kane Williamson (54 not out) propelled Hyderabad to a very challenging 207 for three after being asked to take the first strike. 
 
The hosts were off to a flying start but intermittent wickets did not help their cause. All they could manage was 181 for nine, allowing Hyderabad consolidate their third position in the table. 
 
Australian left-hander Shaun Marsh made good use of two lives to keep the defending champions nervous but once his whirlwind knock 84 runs was ended by pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the win was a mere formality for Hyderabad. 
 
At the start also when Martin Guptill (23) was going hammer and tongs, it was Bhuvneshwar who had dismissed the Kiwi cricketer to bring relief for his side. 
 
Bhuvneshwar, who has been the most impressive bowler this IPL season, continued to dominate the batsmen and his impeccable line and length at crucial juncture yet again proved a boon for his side. 
 
Afghan spinner Rashid Khan was exceptional in the middle overs. He choked the Punjab batsmen with his superb control over line and length. He conceded only two runs in his first 12 balls which meant that the required run-rate mounted to 13.20 after 10 overs. 
 
Overall, he gave away only 16 runs in his four-over quota and also dismissed dangerous Eoin Morgan. 
 
Siddarth Kaul accounted for three batsmen -- Maxwell (0), Wriddhiman Saha (2) and Axar Patel (16). 
 
Earlier, home skipper Glenn Maxwell invited Hyderabad to bat but could hardly trouble the visitors who negotiated the attack with remarkable ease. 
 
The platform for Hyderabad&#39;s second 200-plus total was set by the 107-run stand between Dhawan and Warner. 
 
After Dhawan and Warner did the job with their half- centuries, Kiwi batsman Williamson provided the finishing touches to Hyderabad innings with his fiery knock that came off just 27 balls. 
 
Dhawan and Warner struck the ball hard and clean, sending the fielders on a leather hunt even as the ball swung a bit initially, suggesting that pacers may dictate the terms. 
 
However, none of the bowlers could make an impression with the two left-handers finding boundaries at will. The runs came at a good pace and Hyderabad had put on board 100 runs before the half-way mark. 
 
Skipper Maxwell (2/29) introduced himself to the attack and succeeded in sending back his counterpart, who swept and missed only to see his stumps rattled. Warner&#39;s 51 came off just 27 balls with four sixes and and as many fours. 
 
By that time the damage was already done and Hyderabad were set for a big total. Kane Williamson joined Dhawan at the crease and there was a period of 18 balls when no boundary was scored. 
 
Williamson broke the shackles as he opened his arms to smack Axar Patel for a huge six over mid-wicket region. 
 
Mohit Sharma dismissed Dhawan, who holed out to Maxwell in the mid-wicket region. Dhawan took 48 balls for his knock which had nine shots to the fence and one over the ropes. 
 
His fall brought Yuvraj (15) to the crease and the onus to exploit the good work done by the openers was on him and his Kiwi partner. However the left-hander could not contribute much, becoming second victim of Maxwell. 
 
Williamson though ensured that Hyderabad cross the 200- run mark with his innings which was laced with six boundaries, including two sixes. 
 
(PTI)

Half-centuries from openers Shikhar Dhawan (77), David Warner (51) and Kane Williamson (54 not out) propelled Hyderabad to a very challenging 207 for three

Sunrisers Hyderabad's top-order batted with aplomb before the bowlers delivered the goods as the defending champions registered an emphatic 26-run win over struggling Kings XI Punjab, here tonight. Half-centuries from openers Shikhar Dhawan (77), David Warner (51) and Kane Williamson (54 not out) propelled Hyderabad to a very challenging 207 for three after being asked to take the first strike. The hosts were off to a flying start but intermittent wickets did not help their cause. All they could manage was 181 for nine, allowing Hyderabad consolidate their third position in the table. Australian left-hander Shaun Marsh made good use of two lives to keep the defending champions nervous but once his whirlwind knock 84 runs was ended by pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the win was a mere formality for Hyderabad. At the start also when Martin Guptill (23) was going hammer and tongs, it was Bhuvneshwar who had dismissed the Kiwi cricketer to bring relief for his side. Bhuvneshwar, who has been the most impressive bowler this IPL season, continued to dominate the batsmen and his impeccable line and length at crucial juncture yet again proved a boon for his side. Afghan spinner Rashid Khan was exceptional in the middle overs. He choked the Punjab batsmen with his superb control over line and length. He conceded only two runs in his first 12 balls which meant that the required run-rate mounted to 13.20 after 10 overs. Overall, he gave away only 16 runs in his four-over quota and also dismissed dangerous Eoin Morgan. Siddarth Kaul accounted for three batsmen -- Maxwell (0), Wriddhiman Saha (2) and Axar Patel (16). Earlier, home skipper Glenn Maxwell invited Hyderabad to bat but could hardly trouble the visitors who negotiated the attack with remarkable ease. The platform for Hyderabad's second 200-plus total was set by the 107-run stand between Dhawan and Warner. After Dhawan and Warner did the job with their half- centuries, Kiwi batsman Williamson provided the finishing touches to Hyderabad innings with his fiery knock that came off just 27 balls. Dhawan and Warner struck the ball hard and clean, sending the fielders on a leather hunt even as the ball swung a bit initially, suggesting that pacers may dictate the terms. However, none of the bowlers could make an impression with the two left-handers finding boundaries at will. The runs came at a good pace and Hyderabad had put on board 100 runs before the half-way mark. Skipper Maxwell (2/29) introduced himself to the attack and succeeded in sending back his counterpart, who swept and missed only to see his stumps rattled. Warner's 51 came off just 27 balls with four sixes and and as many fours. By that time the damage was already done and Hyderabad were set for a big total. Kane Williamson joined Dhawan at the crease and there was a period of 18 balls when no boundary was scored. Williamson broke the shackles as he opened his arms to smack Axar Patel for a huge six over mid-wicket region. Mohit Sharma dismissed Dhawan, who holed out to Maxwell in the mid-wicket region. Dhawan took 48 balls for his knock which had nine shots to the fence and one over the ropes. His fall brought Yuvraj (15) to the crease and the onus to exploit the good work done by the openers was on him and his Kiwi partner. However the left-hander could not contribute much, becoming second victim of Maxwell. Williamson though ensured that Hyderabad cross the 200- run mark with his innings which was laced with six boundaries, including two sixes. (PTI)

All-round show scripts Sunrisers Hyderabad's 26-run win over Punjab

Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed an unbeaten 61 to finally come good and reassert his top-class finisher tag as he guided Rising Pune Supergiant to a six-wicket victory over defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in a thrilling IPL match Saturday.

After a series of flop shows, Dhoni&#39;s reputation as a top-notch finisher was at stake, but on Saturday&nbsp;the former India captain was in his elements, smashing a flurry of fours and sixes as Pune overhauled the target of 177 in the final ball of the run chase.

Dhoni needed two runs from the final delivery but he hit Siddarth Kaul for a boundary as Pune reached 179 for 4 to the wild celebrations of the home supporters at the MCA Stadium.

Dhoni faced 34 deliveries for his unbeaten 61 that included five fours and three sixes.

This was the third win for Pune from six matches and they now have six points. Hyderabad, on the other hand, have eight points from seven matches, after four wins and three losses.

Opener Rahul Tripathi had kept Pune in the hunt with a 41-ball 59 before he was out in the 14th over. Captain Steve Smith contributed with a 21-ball 27 but he got out early in the 11th over.

When Dhoni came out at number four at the fall of Smith&#39;s wicket in the final delivery of the 11th over at 87 for 2, Pune needed 10 runs an over to win the match.

However, the situation worsened after Tripathi was out. Ben Stokes (10), this IPL season&#39;s costliest buy, once again failed to contribute, falling in the 17th over and by that time the asking rate had shot up to above 14 an over.

Dhoni, who seemed to be struggling as he could not connect his bat with the ball for some time, then swung into action as he hit two fours and a six to take 17 runs from the 18th over bowled by Mohammed Siraj.

Dhoni was on song then and he did not spare death overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar, stealing 19 runs from the penultimate over with the help of two fours and a six. That changed the complexion of the match and Pune needed 11 runs from the final over.

Manoj Tiwary (17 not out) was dropped in the first ball of the final over and got a four courtesy Rashid Khan.

But Tiwary and Dhoni could score only in singles in the next three deliveries before a couple of runs in the penultimate ball. Pune needed two from the last ball and Dhoni hit a four to seal the issue.

For Hyderabad, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bipul Sharma and Rashid Khan got wicket apiece.

Earlier, Pune produced a disciplined bowling effort before a smashing half-century by Moises Henriques enabled Hyderabad to reach a competitive 176 for three.

Put into bat, Hyderabad were struggling at 122 for three in the 16th over before Henriques (55 not out) increased the tempo to steal 54 runs in the last four overs, in the able company of Deepak Hooda (19 not out 
off 10 balls).

Off to a decent start after being put in to bat, skipper David Warner and Shikhar Dhawan put on a 55-run stand for the opening wicket before Hyderabad bowlers led by Daniel Christian (1/20) and Imran Tahir (1/23) dominated the middle overs to put brakes on the scoring.

Tahir was the one, who gave Hyderabad their first breakthrough by seeing off Dhawan for a 29-ball 30.

Kane Williamson tried to accelerate the run-rate during his 21 off 14 balls that included a six and a four, he was trapped leg-before wicket by Christian.

Even though Warner held on to his wicket and played a responsible knock, he failed to up the ante.

Eventually he was bowled out by Jaydev Unadkat for 43 off 40 deliveries, studded with three boundaries and a six.

After Warner&#39;s departure, Henriques launched a furious assault, hitting two sixes and six boundaries to guide the team to a 175-plus total. He remained unbeaten on 55 off just 28 deliveries.&nbsp; 
 
(PTI) 
&nbsp;

Dhoni smashed an unbeaten 61 as he guided Rising Pune Supergiant to victory over defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad

Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed an unbeaten 61 to finally come good and reassert his top-class finisher tag as he guided Rising Pune Supergiant to a six-wicket victory over defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in a thrilling IPL match Saturday. After a series of flop shows, Dhoni's reputation as a top-notch finisher was at stake, but on Saturday the former India captain was in his elements, smashing a flurry of fours and sixes as Pune overhauled the target of 177 in the final ball of the run chase. Dhoni needed two runs from the final delivery but he hit Siddarth Kaul for a boundary as Pune reached 179 for 4 to the wild celebrations of the home supporters at the MCA Stadium. Dhoni faced 34 deliveries for his unbeaten 61 that included five fours and three sixes. This was the third win for Pune from six matches and they now have six points. Hyderabad, on the other hand, have eight points from seven matches, after four wins and three losses. Opener Rahul Tripathi had kept Pune in the hunt with a 41-ball 59 before he was out in the 14th over. Captain Steve Smith contributed with a 21-ball 27 but he got out early in the 11th over. When Dhoni came out at number four at the fall of Smith's wicket in the final delivery of the 11th over at 87 for 2, Pune needed 10 runs an over to win the match. However, the situation worsened after Tripathi was out. Ben Stokes (10), this IPL season's costliest buy, once again failed to contribute, falling in the 17th over and by that time the asking rate had shot up to above 14 an over. Dhoni, who seemed to be struggling as he could not connect his bat with the ball for some time, then swung into action as he hit two fours and a six to take 17 runs from the 18th over bowled by Mohammed Siraj. Dhoni was on song then and he did not spare death overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar, stealing 19 runs from the penultimate over with the help of two fours and a six. That changed the complexion of the match and Pune needed 11 runs from the final over. Manoj Tiwary (17 not out) was dropped in the first ball of the final over and got a four courtesy Rashid Khan. But Tiwary and Dhoni could score only in singles in the next three deliveries before a couple of runs in the penultimate ball. Pune needed two from the last ball and Dhoni hit a four to seal the issue. For Hyderabad, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bipul Sharma and Rashid Khan got wicket apiece. Earlier, Pune produced a disciplined bowling effort before a smashing half-century by Moises Henriques enabled Hyderabad to reach a competitive 176 for three. Put into bat, Hyderabad were struggling at 122 for three in the 16th over before Henriques (55 not out) increased the tempo to steal 54 runs in the last four overs, in the able company of Deepak Hooda (19 not out off 10 balls). Off to a decent start after being put in to bat, skipper David Warner and Shikhar Dhawan put on a 55-run stand for the opening wicket before Hyderabad bowlers led by Daniel Christian (1/20) and Imran Tahir (1/23) dominated the middle overs to put brakes on the scoring. Tahir was the one, who gave Hyderabad their first breakthrough by seeing off Dhawan for a 29-ball 30. Kane Williamson tried to accelerate the run-rate during his 21 off 14 balls that included a six and a four, he was trapped leg-before wicket by Christian. Even though Warner held on to his wicket and played a responsible knock, he failed to up the ante. Eventually he was bowled out by Jaydev Unadkat for 43 off 40 deliveries, studded with three boundaries and a six. After Warner's departure, Henriques launched a furious assault, hitting two sixes and six boundaries to guide the team to a 175-plus total. He remained unbeaten on 55 off just 28 deliveries. (PTI)

Dhoni seals 6-wicket victory for Pune Supergiant against Sunrisers Hyderabad

Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed an unbeaten 61 to finally come good and reassert his top-class finisher tag as he guided Rising Pune Supergiant&nbsp;to a six-wicket victory over defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in a thrilling IPL match here today. 
 
After a series of flop shows, Dhoni&#39;s reputation as a top-notch finisher was at stake, but today the former India captain was in his element, smashing a flurry of fours and sixes as Pune overhauled the target of 177 in the final ball of the run chase. 
 
Dhoni needed two runs from the final delivery but he hit Siddarth Kaul for a boundary as Pune reached 179 for 4 to the wild celebrations of the home supporters at the MCA Stadium. 
 
Dhoni faced 34 deliveries for his unbeaten 61 that included five fours and three sixes. 
 
This was the third win for Pune from six matches and they now have six points. 
 
Hyderabad, on the other hand, have eight points from seven matches, after four wins and three losses. 
 
Opener Rahul Tripathi had kept Pune in the hunt with a 41-ball 59 before he was out in the 14th over. Captain Steve Smith contributed with a 21-ball 27 but he got out early in the 11th over. 
 
When Dhoni came out at number four at the fall of Smith&#39;s wicket in the final delivery of the 11th over at 87 for 2, Pune needed 10 runs an over to win the match. 
 
However, the situation worsened after Tripathi was out. 
 
Ben Stokes (10), this IPL season&#39;s costliest buy, once again failed to contribute, falling in the 17th over and by that time the asking rate had shot up to above 14 an over. 
 
Dhoni, who seemed to be struggling as he could not connect his bat with the ball for some time, then swung into action as he hit two fours and a six to take 17 runs from the 18th over bowled by Mohammed Siraj. 
 
Dhoni was on song then and he did not spare death overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar, stealing 19 runs from the penultimate over with the help of two fours and a six. That changed the complexion of the match and Pune needed 11 runs from the final over. 
 
Manoj Tiwary (17 not out) was dropped in the first ball of the final over and got a four courtesy Rashid Khan. But Tiwary and Dhoni could score only in singles in the next three deliveries before a couple of runs in the penultimate ball. 
 
Pune needed two from the last ball and Dhoni hit a four to seal the issue. 
 
For Hyderabad, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bipul Sharma and Rashid Khan got wicket apiece. 
 
Earlier, Pune produced a disciplined bowling effort before a smashing half-century by Moises Henriques enabled Hyderabad to reach a competitive 176 for three. 
 
Put into bat, Hyderabad were struggling at 122 for three in the 16th over before Henriques (55 not out) increased the tempo to steal 54 runs in the last four overs, in the able company of Deepak Hooda (19 not out off 10 balls). 
 
Off to a decent start after being put in to bat, skipper David Warner and Shikhar Dhawan put on a 55-run stand for the opening wicket before Hyderabad bowlers led by Daniel Christian (1/20) and Imran Tahir (1/23) dominated the middle overs to put brakes on the scoring. 
 
Tahir was the one, who gave Hyderabad their first breakthrough by seeing off Dhawan for a 29-ball 30. 
 
Kane Williamson tried to accelerate the run-rate during his 21 off 14 balls that included a six and a four, he was trapped leg-before wicket by Christian. 
 
Even though Warner held on to his wicket and played a responsible knock, he failed to up the ante. 
 
Eventually he was bowled out by Jaydev Unadkat for 43 off 40 deliveries, studded with three boundaries and a six. 
 
After Warner&#39;s departure, Henriques launched a furious assault, hitting two sixes and six boundaries to guide the team to a 175-plus total. 
 
He remained unbeaten on 55 off just 28 deliveries.

(PTI)

This was the third win for Pune from six matches and they now have six points

Mahendra Singh Dhoni smashed an unbeaten 61 to finally come good and reassert his top-class finisher tag as he guided Rising Pune Supergiant to a six-wicket victory over defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in a thrilling IPL match here today. After a series of flop shows, Dhoni's reputation as a top-notch finisher was at stake, but today the former India captain was in his element, smashing a flurry of fours and sixes as Pune overhauled the target of 177 in the final ball of the run chase. Dhoni needed two runs from the final delivery but he hit Siddarth Kaul for a boundary as Pune reached 179 for 4 to the wild celebrations of the home supporters at the MCA Stadium. Dhoni faced 34 deliveries for his unbeaten 61 that included five fours and three sixes. This was the third win for Pune from six matches and they now have six points. Hyderabad, on the other hand, have eight points from seven matches, after four wins and three losses. Opener Rahul Tripathi had kept Pune in the hunt with a 41-ball 59 before he was out in the 14th over. Captain Steve Smith contributed with a 21-ball 27 but he got out early in the 11th over. When Dhoni came out at number four at the fall of Smith's wicket in the final delivery of the 11th over at 87 for 2, Pune needed 10 runs an over to win the match. However, the situation worsened after Tripathi was out. Ben Stokes (10), this IPL season's costliest buy, once again failed to contribute, falling in the 17th over and by that time the asking rate had shot up to above 14 an over. Dhoni, who seemed to be struggling as he could not connect his bat with the ball for some time, then swung into action as he hit two fours and a six to take 17 runs from the 18th over bowled by Mohammed Siraj. Dhoni was on song then and he did not spare death overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar, stealing 19 runs from the penultimate over with the help of two fours and a six. That changed the complexion of the match and Pune needed 11 runs from the final over. Manoj Tiwary (17 not out) was dropped in the first ball of the final over and got a four courtesy Rashid Khan. But Tiwary and Dhoni could score only in singles in the next three deliveries before a couple of runs in the penultimate ball. Pune needed two from the last ball and Dhoni hit a four to seal the issue. For Hyderabad, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bipul Sharma and Rashid Khan got wicket apiece. Earlier, Pune produced a disciplined bowling effort before a smashing half-century by Moises Henriques enabled Hyderabad to reach a competitive 176 for three. Put into bat, Hyderabad were struggling at 122 for three in the 16th over before Henriques (55 not out) increased the tempo to steal 54 runs in the last four overs, in the able company of Deepak Hooda (19 not out off 10 balls). Off to a decent start after being put in to bat, skipper David Warner and Shikhar Dhawan put on a 55-run stand for the opening wicket before Hyderabad bowlers led by Daniel Christian (1/20) and Imran Tahir (1/23) dominated the middle overs to put brakes on the scoring. Tahir was the one, who gave Hyderabad their first breakthrough by seeing off Dhawan for a 29-ball 30. Kane Williamson tried to accelerate the run-rate during his 21 off 14 balls that included a six and a four, he was trapped leg-before wicket by Christian. Even though Warner held on to his wicket and played a responsible knock, he failed to up the ante. Eventually he was bowled out by Jaydev Unadkat for 43 off 40 deliveries, studded with three boundaries and a six. After Warner's departure, Henriques launched a furious assault, hitting two sixes and six boundaries to guide the team to a 175-plus total. He remained unbeaten on 55 off just 28 deliveries. (PTI)

IPL: Dhoni leads Rising Pune Supergiant to six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad

Sunrisers Hyderabad rode on Kane Williamson&#39;s attacking knock of 89 and some brilliant bowling at the death as they beat Delhi Daredevils by 15 runs in their IPL match here today.

Electing to bat, Hyderabad posted a challenging 191 for 4 courtesy Williamson&#39;s 89 off just 51 balls and his 136-run stand for the second wicket with opener Shikhar Dhawan (70), and then restricted Delhi to 176 for 5 to maintain their unbeaten run at home.

With their fourth successive win at home, Hyderabad jumped to second spot with eight points from six matches, from four wins and two losses.

Chasing 192 for a win, Delhi were in the hunt as they reached 56 for 1 at the end of six powerplay overs with Sanju Samson (42) and Karun Nair (33) going great guns though they lost Sam Billings (13) early on.

But once Samson and Nair were out, Delhi innings lost way and the asking rate piled up. They needed 65 from the final five overs but could only score 49 with the Hyderabad side bowlers coming up with a fine bowling show at the death overs.

Needing 24 runs from the final over, Delhi made a valiant attempt but ended up 15 runs short in the end.

For Hyderabad, Mohammed Siraj took two wickets for 39 runs while Siddarth Kaul and Yuvraj Singh grabbed a wicket each.

(PTI)

Batting first, Hyderabad posted a challenging 191 for 4 courtesy Williamson's 89 off just 51 balls

Sunrisers Hyderabad rode on Kane Williamson's attacking knock of 89 and some brilliant bowling at the death as they beat Delhi Daredevils by 15 runs in their IPL match here today. Electing to bat, Hyderabad posted a challenging 191 for 4 courtesy Williamson's 89 off just 51 balls and his 136-run stand for the second wicket with opener Shikhar Dhawan (70), and then restricted Delhi to 176 for 5 to maintain their unbeaten run at home. With their fourth successive win at home, Hyderabad jumped to second spot with eight points from six matches, from four wins and two losses. Chasing 192 for a win, Delhi were in the hunt as they reached 56 for 1 at the end of six powerplay overs with Sanju Samson (42) and Karun Nair (33) going great guns though they lost Sam Billings (13) early on. But once Samson and Nair were out, Delhi innings lost way and the asking rate piled up. They needed 65 from the final five overs but could only score 49 with the Hyderabad side bowlers coming up with a fine bowling show at the death overs. Needing 24 runs from the final over, Delhi made a valiant attempt but ended up 15 runs short in the end. For Hyderabad, Mohammed Siraj took two wickets for 39 runs while Siddarth Kaul and Yuvraj Singh grabbed a wicket each. (PTI)

IPL: Riding on Williamson's brilliant knock, Sunrisers Hyderabad beat Delhi Daredevils by 15 runs

Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Kings XI Punjab by five runs in an Indian Premier League (IPL) match here tonight.

Sent into bat, Sunrisers Hyderabad scored 159 for six with skipper David Warner hitting 70 off 54 balls at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

In reply, Punjab were staring at a defeat at 62 for five at the end of 10th over, but Manan Vohra (95 off 50 balls) brought the visitors within striking distance of pulling off an incredible win.

But Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who returned excellent figures of 5/19, had the last laugh as the seamer trapped Vohra in the penultimate over of the match.

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Vohra struck nine boundaries and five sixes during his whirlwind knock.

Kings XI Punjab were eventually bowled out for 154 in 19.4 overs.

Sunrisers Hyderabad, thus, registered their first win after suffering two defeats.

(PTI)

Sent into bat, Sunrisers Hyderabad scored 159 for six with skipper David Warner hitting 70 off 54 balls

Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Kings XI Punjab by five runs in an Indian Premier League (IPL) match here tonight. Sent into bat, Sunrisers Hyderabad scored 159 for six with skipper David Warner hitting 70 off 54 balls at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. In reply, Punjab were staring at a defeat at 62 for five at the end of 10th over, but Manan Vohra (95 off 50 balls) brought the visitors within striking distance of pulling off an incredible win. But Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who returned excellent figures of 5/19, had the last laugh as the seamer trapped Vohra in the penultimate over of the match. Vohra struck nine boundaries and five sixes during his whirlwind knock. Kings XI Punjab were eventually bowled out for 154 in 19.4 overs. Sunrisers Hyderabad, thus, registered their first win after suffering two defeats. (PTI)

IPL: Sunrisers Hyderabad clinch victory over Kings XI Punjab by 5 runs

Mumbai Indians beat defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad by four wickets in an Indian Premier League encounter, here today.

Chasing a victory target of 159, Mumbai achieved the target in 18.4 overs with youngster Nitish Rana scoring 45 and veteran keeper Parthiv Patel scoring 39 off 24 balls.

Rana&rsquo;s innings comprised of three fours and two sixes.

Krunal Pandya also played an attractive knock of 37 off only 20 balls.

Earlier, David Warner&rsquo;s 49 and Shikhar Dhawan&rsquo;s 48 were the significant contributions in an otherwise modest 158 for 8 on batting-friendly conditions at the Wankhede Stadium.

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WION&#39;s sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo provides talks about what to expect in the match as the two IPL giants clash at Wankhede today (WION)
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(PTI)

Chasing a victory target of 159, Mumbai achieved the target in 18.4 overs

Mumbai Indians beat defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad by four wickets in an Indian Premier League encounter, here today. Chasing a victory target of 159, Mumbai achieved the target in 18.4 overs with youngster Nitish Rana scoring 45 and veteran keeper Parthiv Patel scoring 39 off 24 balls. Rana’s innings comprised of three fours and two sixes. Krunal Pandya also played an attractive knock of 37 off only 20 balls. Earlier, David Warner’s 49 and Shikhar Dhawan’s 48 were the significant contributions in an otherwise modest 158 for 8 on batting-friendly conditions at the Wankhede Stadium. WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo provides talks about what to expect in the match as the two IPL giants clash at Wankhede today (WION) × (PTI)

IPL: Mumbai Indians beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by 4 wickets

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

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

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

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

It is hard to imagine a childhood with no playground in it. However, there are innumerable kids worldwide who are deprived of a ball or, for that matter, a&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;bat to play with. One&#39;s life is far from normal if, as a teenager, you witnessed bombings, gunfights and battlefields right round the corner of your home. Where does one go if, the government cannot provide even the basic amenities? How does one survive amidst bloodshed?&nbsp;

In the end, it all comes down to picking sides, the right or the wrong.

But then, among the ashes rise individuals who are similar in their grit to a Superman or, maybe, a Batman. The Afghan&nbsp;cricketers who have been making their presence felt in the international arena of&nbsp;cricket, have been bringing smiles, harmony and, most of all, unity in the war-struck nation.

&quot;Cricket&nbsp;is not just a sport for Afghanistan anymore, it is a lot more. It has helped bring peace and harmony back in our country. Even the opposition party leaders sit with the ruling party members and watch our matches. In the last few years, we are winning on a consistent basis. When we lose or win matches our fans stand by us. And in the coming years, you will see that Afghanistan&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;team will be a force to reckon with,&quot; Shir Agha Hamkar, Afghanistan&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;team manager pointed out.

Just like the superheroes of our age, these men dressed in blue and red jersey also flaunt weapons. Their weapons are not AK-47s or those fancy high-end gadgets but a&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;ball and a&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;bat. And, what counts as their battlefield is not a piece of territory along the Line Of Control but a&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;pitch, measuring 22 yards. Their challenge is to outplay the opposition and not outrun them. Their victories are often numbered in runs and wickets and not in treaties or surrenders.

For these Afghan&nbsp;cricketers, the dream of playing the game would not have been possible without the help of Board of Control for&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;in India (BCCI). In December 2015, the BCCI and the Afghanistan&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Board got into an agreement to help the boys from the faraway nation; Afghan&nbsp;cricketers got the permission to use the Greater Noida Sports Complex as their home ground. Since then it has been a joyous ride for the Afghan sportsmen, defeating the likes of West Indies, Zimbabwe and Ireland at major events.

Speaking about the stadium, the&nbsp;cricketers found no fault: &quot;This is such a good facility. We have all that is required to improve our game. The sports complex is nice, the people are nice. There are a lot of students and families from Afghanistan here in Delhi, and they come out in support of us, which is so heartening to see,&#39;&#39; Mohammad Nabi, the star player from Afghanistan told&nbsp;WION.

At the recently concluded Indian Premier League auction, Nabi and Rashid Khan have been roped in by the champion team, Sunrisers Hyderabad. &quot;Playing at the IPL will be like a dream come true for me and Nabi. Not just for us but for our brothers back home as well. This will only open the doors for other Afghan&nbsp;cricketers to make it to the IPL,&quot; Rashid Khan said.

The men dressed in blue and red have won 11 consecutive T20s and that&#39;s a record. They last beat Ireland in a T20 series, winning all the 3 matches. The Afghan dream has been sown in by these momentous players. The dreams of these heroes have begun to take wings already. &nbsp;These players might not have beaten teams like India or Australia on a&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;field but they sure do know how to win hearts.&nbsp;

For now, all that we can say is, dream on boys, and keep that Afghan flying high.

(WION)
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Cricket has unified Afghanistan with local players making their presence felt in the international cricket arena

It is hard to imagine a childhood with no playground in it. However, there are innumerable kids worldwide who are deprived of a ball or, for that matter, a cricket bat to play with. One's life is far from normal if, as a teenager, you witnessed bombings, gunfights and battlefields right round the corner of your home. Where does one go if, the government cannot provide even the basic amenities? How does one survive amidst bloodshed? In the end, it all comes down to picking sides, the right or the wrong. But then, among the ashes rise individuals who are similar in their grit to a Superman or, maybe, a Batman. The Afghan cricketers who have been making their presence felt in the international arena of cricket, have been bringing smiles, harmony and, most of all, unity in the war-struck nation. "Cricket is not just a sport for Afghanistan anymore, it is a lot more. It has helped bring peace and harmony back in our country. Even the opposition party leaders sit with the ruling party members and watch our matches. In the last few years, we are winning on a consistent basis. When we lose or win matches our fans stand by us. And in the coming years, you will see that Afghanistan cricket team will be a force to reckon with," Shir Agha Hamkar, Afghanistan cricket team manager pointed out. Just like the superheroes of our age, these men dressed in blue and red jersey also flaunt weapons. Their weapons are not AK-47s or those fancy high-end gadgets but a cricket ball and a cricket bat. And, what counts as their battlefield is not a piece of territory along the Line Of Control but a cricket pitch, measuring 22 yards. Their challenge is to outplay the opposition and not outrun them. Their victories are often numbered in runs and wickets and not in treaties or surrenders. For these Afghan cricketers, the dream of playing the game would not have been possible without the help of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). In December 2015, the BCCI and the Afghanistan Cricket Board got into an agreement to help the boys from the faraway nation; Afghan cricketers got the permission to use the Greater Noida Sports Complex as their home ground. Since then it has been a joyous ride for the Afghan sportsmen, defeating the likes of West Indies, Zimbabwe and Ireland at major events. Speaking about the stadium, the cricketers found no fault: "This is such a good facility. We have all that is required to improve our game. The sports complex is nice, the people are nice. There are a lot of students and families from Afghanistan here in Delhi, and they come out in support of us, which is so heartening to see,'' Mohammad Nabi, the star player from Afghanistan told WION. At the recently concluded Indian Premier League auction, Nabi and Rashid Khan have been roped in by the champion team, Sunrisers Hyderabad. "Playing at the IPL will be like a dream come true for me and Nabi. Not just for us but for our brothers back home as well. This will only open the doors for other Afghan cricketers to make it to the IPL," Rashid Khan said. The men dressed in blue and red have won 11 consecutive T20s and that's a record. They last beat Ireland in a T20 series, winning all the 3 matches. The Afghan dream has been sown in by these momentous players. The dreams of these heroes have begun to take wings already. These players might not have beaten teams like India or Australia on a cricket field but they sure do know how to win hearts. For now, all that we can say is, dream on boys, and keep that Afghan flying high. (WION)

Cricket fever revives Afghanistan, players eye IPL