<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will take inspiration from their women's counterpart to win their maiden title in the IPL 2024 edition, which kicks off on March 22 (Friday). RCB, under Faf du Plessis, open their campaign versus defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai in the season-opener. The three-time runners-up will hope for a bright start and to go all the distance this time around after failing to reach the playoffs last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the IPL 2024 mini-auction, held in Dubai in December 2023, the Virat Kohli-starrer added quite a few interesting names to their roster. Hence, there are strong hopes from the Bengaluru camp to go all the way in the upcoming season. At present, they are only among three sides (along with Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings) from the initial season who are yet to win a title. Will they turn it around this year? Only time will tell...</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-full-updated-squad-ipl-2024-chennai-super-kings-probable-playing-xi-replacement-captain-schedule-702685">CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL 2024 Details</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Home ground</strong>: M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru</p>

<p><strong>Best Performance</strong>: Finalists in 2009, 2011, 2016</p>

<p><strong>Captain</strong>: Faf du Plessis</p>

<h2><strong>Schedule:</strong></h2>

<p>Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru&nbsp;- March 22 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings - March 25 - Bengaluru - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders - March 29 - Bengaluru - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Lucknow Super Giants - April 2 - Bengaluru - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p>Rajasthan Royals vs&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bengaluru - Apri; 6 - Jaipur - 7:30 PM IST</p>

<p><strong>RCB IPL 2024 probable playing XI:&nbsp;</strong>Faf du Plessis (c), Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Mahipal Lomror, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammed Siraj, Karn Sharma/Mayank Dagar, Akash Deep/Yash Dayal</p>

<p><strong>RCB players bought at&nbsp;IPL 2024&nbsp;auction:</strong>:Alzarri Joseph (Rs. 11.50 crore), Yash Dayal (Rs. 5 crore), Tom Curran (Rs. 1.5 crore), Lockie Ferguson (Rs. 2 crore), Swapnil Singh (Rs. 20 lakh), Saurav Chauhan (Rs. 20 lakh)</p>

<p><strong>RCB Squad for IPL 2024</strong>: Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar (Traded), Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green (Traded), Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh, Saurav Chauhan</p>


Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will take inspiration from their women's counterpart to win their maiden title in the IPL 2024 edition, which kicks off on March 22 (Friday).

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will take inspiration from their women's counterpart to win their maiden title in the IPL 2024 edition, which kicks off on March 22 (Friday). RCB, under Faf du Plessis, open their campaign versus defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai in the season-opener. The three-time runners-up will hope for a bright start and to go all the distance this time around after failing to reach the playoffs last year. In the IPL 2024 mini-auction, held in Dubai in December 2023, the Virat Kohli-starrer added quite a few interesting names to their roster. Hence, there are strong hopes from the Bengaluru camp to go all the way in the upcoming season. At present, they are only among three sides (along with Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings) from the initial season who are yet to win a title. Will they turn it around this year? Only time will tell... Also read: CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL 2024 Details Home ground: M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru Best Performance: Finalists in 2009, 2011, 2016 Captain: Faf du Plessis Schedule: Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru - March 22 - Chennai - 7:30 PM IST Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings - March 25 - Bengaluru - 7:30 PM IST Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders - March 29 - Bengaluru - 7:30 PM IST Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Lucknow Super Giants - April 2 - Bengaluru - 7:30 PM IST Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru - Apri; 6 - Jaipur - 7:30 PM IST RCB IPL 2024 probable playing XI: Faf du Plessis (c), Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Mahipal Lomror, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammed Siraj, Karn Sharma/Mayank Dagar, Akash Deep/Yash Dayal RCB players bought at IPL 2024 auction::Alzarri Joseph (Rs. 11.50 crore), Yash Dayal (Rs. 5 crore), Tom Curran (Rs. 1.5 crore), Lockie Ferguson (Rs. 2 crore), Swapnil Singh (Rs. 20 lakh), Saurav Chauhan (Rs. 20 lakh) RCB Squad for IPL 2024: Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar (Traded), Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green (Traded), Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh, Saurav Chauhan

RCB Full squad: IPL 2024, Royal Challengers Bengaluru probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule

Is this viral photo of star Cricketer Virat Kohli fake? What does it show? Kohli is sitting on a chair and apparently watching Rahul Gandhi's video. Claims are being made online that he likes Rahul Gandhi. But, what is the truth?

Fact Check: Is Virat Kohli watching Rahul Gandhi on his phone?

<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli says that one has to constantly make additions to their game to keep improving. Kohli made the comments after RCB pulled a heist against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 25 and won their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. Kohli played an important role with 49-ball 77 during which he stepped out to PBKS pacers multiple times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Well I mean you have to (make additions to your game)," he said about playing pacers while stepping out as opposed to his natural game of playing from the crease.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-jasprit-bumrah-leaves-stuart-broad-steve-smith-speechless-with-ruthless-spell-against-gt-704096">Jasprit Bumrah leaves Stuart Broad, Steve Smith speechless with ruthless spell against GT</a></p>

<p>"People know I play the cover drive pretty well so they're not going to allow me to hit gaps and with guys like KG [Kagiso Rabada] and Arshdeep [Singh] as well, he's tall. So, I mean, if they're hitting length, you have to create some momentum in the ball.</p>

<p>"And once you're closer to the ball, you kind of negate the bounce that's going to happen. You meet it earlier.</p>

<p>"So, I mean, you have to come up with a game plan here and there and try to keep improving your game," Kohli added.</p>

<p>Kohli has returned to competitive cricket after two months in the IPL 2024 and will be the mainstay of RCB as they search for their maiden trophy.</p>

<p>As for the game against PBKS, RCB and Kohli were in command in chase of 177 till the 16th over. Two quick wickets including Kohli, however, pegged them back with 47 needed off the last 22 balls and four wickets in hand. RCB's impact player Mahipal Lomror and veteran Dinesh Karthik then added the rest of the runs in just 18 balls to take their team home.</p>

<p>Lomror hit an 8-ball 17 while Karthik smashed a 10-ball 28 as RCB chased the target in 19.2 overs. Kohli was named Player of the Match for his innings and two catches. Bengaluru will next play Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday, March 29.</p>


Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli says that one has to constantly make additions to their game to keep improving. Kohli made the comments after RCB pulled a heist against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 25 and won their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli says that one has to constantly make additions to their game to keep improving. Kohli made the comments after RCB pulled a heist against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 25 and won their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. Kohli played an important role with 49-ball 77 during which he stepped out to PBKS pacers multiple times. "Well I mean you have to (make additions to your game)," he said about playing pacers while stepping out as opposed to his natural game of playing from the crease. Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah leaves Stuart Broad, Steve Smith speechless with ruthless spell against GT "People know I play the cover drive pretty well so they're not going to allow me to hit gaps and with guys like KG [Kagiso Rabada] and Arshdeep [Singh] as well, he's tall. So, I mean, if they're hitting length, you have to create some momentum in the ball. "And once you're closer to the ball, you kind of negate the bounce that's going to happen. You meet it earlier. "So, I mean, you have to come up with a game plan here and there and try to keep improving your game," Kohli added. Kohli has returned to competitive cricket after two months in the IPL 2024 and will be the mainstay of RCB as they search for their maiden trophy. As for the game against PBKS, RCB and Kohli were in command in chase of 177 till the 16th over. Two quick wickets including Kohli, however, pegged them back with 47 needed off the last 22 balls and four wickets in hand. RCB's impact player Mahipal Lomror and veteran Dinesh Karthik then added the rest of the runs in just 18 balls to take their team home. Lomror hit an 8-ball 17 while Karthik smashed a 10-ball 28 as RCB chased the target in 19.2 overs. Kohli was named Player of the Match for his innings and two catches. Bengaluru will next play Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday, March 29.

IPL 2024: RCB's Virat Kohli REVEALS why he stepped out to play pacers against Punjab Kings

<p>Virat Kohli silenced his critics on Monday (Mar 25) after playing a match-winning 77-run knock against Punjab Kings at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). After being awarded Player of the Match for his glorious innings to help RCB register their maiden win of the season, Virat opened up on few insights on his pre-IPL stint, where he was not spotted in India. While speaking to Harsha Bhogle he also stated how different his life was and confessed that he was not in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat opens up on two-month break</strong></h2>

<p>"We were not in the country. We were in a place where people were not recognising us. Just time together as a family, just to feel normal for two months - for me, my family - it was a surreal experience. Of course, having two kids, things become totally different from a family perspective. Just the ability to be together, the connections you make with your older child.</p>

<p>"Couldn't have been more grateful to God for the opportunity to spend time with the family. It's an amazing experience to just be another person on the road and not be recognised. That's the promise I can give here - I'll keep turning up and keep trying me best," Kohli said while speaking to Bhogle in the post-match.</p>

<p>The former RCB captain was in great form on Monday as RCB broke the duck on the points table with a four-wicket win against PBKS. RCB needed a final-over finish to win the match as Dinesh Karthik (28 off 10) and Mahipal Lomror (17 off 8) helped the home side. RCB’s foreign players once again flopped as Faf du Plessis (3), Cameron Green (3) and Glenn Maxwell (3) departed early.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-comes-at-par-with-ms-dhoni-in-elite-list-after-rcb-beat-pbks-704380">IPL 2024: Virat Kohli comes at par with MS Dhoni in elite list after RCB beat PBKS</a></p>

<h2><strong>Virat silences critics</strong></h2>

<p>Virat’s 77 was the highlight reel as he also silenced the critics with his knock at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. His place in the Indian team is questioned and according to reports, he could also be out of the squad for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. However, his knock-on Monday has silenced some of the critics on Monday.</p>

<p>Interestingly, Virat was not part of the Indian team that won the five-match Test series 4-1 against England in March.</p>


Virat Kohli silenced his critics on Monday (Mar 25) after playing a match-winning 77-run knock against Punjab Kings at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Virat Kohli silenced his critics on Monday (Mar 25) after playing a match-winning 77-run knock against Punjab Kings at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). After being awarded Player of the Match for his glorious innings to help RCB register their maiden win of the season, Virat opened up on few insights on his pre-IPL stint, where he was not spotted in India. While speaking to Harsha Bhogle he also stated how different his life was and confessed that he was not in India. Virat opens up on two-month break "We were not in the country. We were in a place where people were not recognising us. Just time together as a family, just to feel normal for two months - for me, my family - it was a surreal experience. Of course, having two kids, things become totally different from a family perspective. Just the ability to be together, the connections you make with your older child. "Couldn't have been more grateful to God for the opportunity to spend time with the family. It's an amazing experience to just be another person on the road and not be recognised. That's the promise I can give here - I'll keep turning up and keep trying me best," Kohli said while speaking to Bhogle in the post-match. The former RCB captain was in great form on Monday as RCB broke the duck on the points table with a four-wicket win against PBKS. RCB needed a final-over finish to win the match as Dinesh Karthik (28 off 10) and Mahipal Lomror (17 off 8) helped the home side. RCB’s foreign players once again flopped as Faf du Plessis (3), Cameron Green (3) and Glenn Maxwell (3) departed early. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Virat Kohli comes at par with MS Dhoni in elite list after RCB beat PBKS Virat silences critics Virat’s 77 was the highlight reel as he also silenced the critics with his knock at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. His place in the Indian team is questioned and according to reports, he could also be out of the squad for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. However, his knock-on Monday has silenced some of the critics on Monday. Interestingly, Virat was not part of the Indian team that won the five-match Test series 4-1 against England in March.

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli opens up on 2-month break during England series, says 'We were in a place...'

<p>Former England cricketer-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen hailed Virat Kohli during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) four-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Monday (March 25). Pietersen was in awe of Kohli's&nbsp;passion and panache for the game and even lauded his fitness. In addition,&nbsp;he feels the former Team India captain has turned Indian cricketers into athletes. On Monday evening, Kohli also starred for RCB in their&nbsp;home game versus PBKS as the&nbsp;Faf du Plessis-led franchise got off the mark in the ongoing edition courtesy of his sublime 49-ball 77.</p>

<h2><strong>'Virat Kohli&nbsp;has turned Indian cricketers into athletes'</strong></h2>

<p>During the game, while speaking on Star Sports, Pietersen said, "One of the things that everyone will remember and will create the greatest memories as a player will be him finishing innings and being one the greatest finishers of all time. One of the things that he has done for Indian cricket is he has turned Indian cricketers into athletes, out-and-out athletes, and while doing so, he's not just talked the talk. He has walked the walk, and you can see that."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-comes-at-par-with-ms-dhoni-in-elite-list-after-rcb-beat-pbks-704380">IPL 2024: Virat Kohli comes at par with MS Dhoni in elite list after RCB beat PBKS</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'The turnaround in Indian cricket is because of what he has done'</strong></h2>

<p>The former cricketer further opined, "When he is running between the wickets, his full commitment and his energy and his desire to be the best, and he is the best. That starts before the field, that starts with diet, that starts with the energy he puts in the gym, that starts with the sacrifices that he has made to walk the walk because when you talk the talk, you have to walk the walk. That's what all the other players who have played under you are following you, watch you. The turnaround in Indian cricket is because of what he has done."</p>

<p>Over the years, Kohli has inspired one and all with his fitness. It is one of the major reasons for his success and longevity at the highest level. During his captaincy tenure, passing the Yo-Yo Test became mandatory for selection for the Indian cricketers. Kohli-starrer RCB will now host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru on Friday evening (March 29).&nbsp;</p>


Former England cricketer-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen hailed Virat Kohli during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) four-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Monday (March 25).

Former England cricketer-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen hailed Virat Kohli during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) four-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition, on Monday (March 25). Pietersen was in awe of Kohli's passion and panache for the game and even lauded his fitness. In addition, he feels the former Team India captain has turned Indian cricketers into athletes. On Monday evening, Kohli also starred for RCB in their home game versus PBKS as the Faf du Plessis-led franchise got off the mark in the ongoing edition courtesy of his sublime 49-ball 77. 'Virat Kohli has turned Indian cricketers into athletes' During the game, while speaking on Star Sports, Pietersen said, "One of the things that everyone will remember and will create the greatest memories as a player will be him finishing innings and being one the greatest finishers of all time. One of the things that he has done for Indian cricket is he has turned Indian cricketers into athletes, out-and-out athletes, and while doing so, he's not just talked the talk. He has walked the walk, and you can see that." Also read: IPL 2024: Virat Kohli comes at par with MS Dhoni in elite list after RCB beat PBKS 'The turnaround in Indian cricket is because of what he has done' The former cricketer further opined, "When he is running between the wickets, his full commitment and his energy and his desire to be the best, and he is the best. That starts before the field, that starts with diet, that starts with the energy he puts in the gym, that starts with the sacrifices that he has made to walk the walk because when you talk the talk, you have to walk the walk. That's what all the other players who have played under you are following you, watch you. The turnaround in Indian cricket is because of what he has done." Over the years, Kohli has inspired one and all with his fitness. It is one of the major reasons for his success and longevity at the highest level. During his captaincy tenure, passing the Yo-Yo Test became mandatory for selection for the Indian cricketers. Kohli-starrer RCB will now host Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru on Friday evening (March 29).

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli turned Indian cricketers into athletes - Kevin Pietersen hails RCB star batter

<p>Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77 stood tall for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in chase of 177 versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition on Monday (March 25), at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Opting to bowl first, Faf du Plessis-led Bengaluru restricted Shikhar Dhawan &amp; Co. for 176-6. In reply, the home side were given a good platform from Kohli before Dinesh Karthik (10-ball 29*) and Mahipal Lomror (8-ball 17*) finished proceedings in style in 19.2 overs. With a four-wicket win, RCB are off the mark in the ongoing edition.</p>

<p>Kohli ended as the Player-of-the-Match (POTM) and equalled Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar MS Dhoni in an elite list. Both Kohli and Dhoni have now won the POTM&nbsp;award on 17 occasions in IPL history. Here is the overall list, spearheaded by RCB great AB de Villiers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>1. AB de Villiers - 25<br />
2. Chris Gayle - 22<br />
3. Rohit Sharma - 19<br />
4. David Warner - 18<br />
<strong>5. Virat Kohli - 17</strong><br />
5. MS Dhoni - 17<br />
6. Yusuf Pathan - 16</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-hes-treasure-rcb-responds-to-murali-karthiks-controversial-remark-on-yash-dayal-after-pbks-tie-704306">IPL 2024: 'He’s treasure' - RCB responds to Murali Karthik's controversial remark on Yash Dayal after PBKS tie</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Kohli stated, "And I thought I need to play correct cricketing shots. Playing across the line wasn't working. Disappointed I couldn't finish the game. Was in the slot but sliced it to deep point. Not a bad start - playing after two months and getting into the tournament."</p>

<p>Kohli-starrer RCB will now gear up for their next clash where they will host rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 10 of the ongoing edition on Friday (March 29). They will aim to make it two wins on the trot.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77 stood tall for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in chase of 177 versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition on Monday (March 25), at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli's 49-ball 77 stood tall for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in chase of 177 versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 6 of the IPL 2024 edition on Monday (March 25), at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Opting to bowl first, Faf du Plessis-led Bengaluru restricted Shikhar Dhawan & Co. for 176-6. In reply, the home side were given a good platform from Kohli before Dinesh Karthik (10-ball 29*) and Mahipal Lomror (8-ball 17*) finished proceedings in style in 19.2 overs. With a four-wicket win, RCB are off the mark in the ongoing edition. Kohli ended as the Player-of-the-Match (POTM) and equalled Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar MS Dhoni in an elite list. Both Kohli and Dhoni have now won the POTM award on 17 occasions in IPL history. Here is the overall list, spearheaded by RCB great AB de Villiers. 1. AB de Villiers - 25 2. Chris Gayle - 22 3. Rohit Sharma - 19 4. David Warner - 18 5. Virat Kohli - 17 5. MS Dhoni - 17 6. Yusuf Pathan - 16 Also read: IPL 2024: 'He’s treasure' - RCB responds to Murali Karthik's controversial remark on Yash Dayal after PBKS tie At the post-match presentation, Kohli stated, "And I thought I need to play correct cricketing shots. Playing across the line wasn't working. Disappointed I couldn't finish the game. Was in the slot but sliced it to deep point. Not a bad start - playing after two months and getting into the tournament." Kohli-starrer RCB will now gear up for their next clash where they will host rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 10 of the ongoing edition on Friday (March 29). They will aim to make it two wins on the trot.

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli comes at par with MS Dhoni in elite list after RCB beat PBKS

<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season got off to a sensational start as hosts and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the opening encounter on Friday (Mar 22). CSK’s six-wicket win against RCB was highlighted by a complete team performance in all aspects, including fielding. One of the highlight reels of CSK’s win was when their fielders combined to dismiss Virat Kohli, which left the former India captain red-faced.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Brilliant teamwork from Ajinkya Rahane and Rachin Ravindra. 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AjinkyaRahane?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AjinkyaRahane</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/icc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#icc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/WN2vmwWuih">pic.twitter.com/WN2vmwWuih</a></p>
— Cricadium CRICKET (@Cricadium) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cricadium/status/1771201878564511928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Ajinkya Rahane, Rachin Ravindra leave Virat stunned</strong></h2>

<p>After a good start and then a mini collapse RCB were 77/3 with Virat and Cameron Green in the middle for the visitors. On the second ball of the 12th over, Virat almost cleared the in-field for a six on Mustafizur Rahman’s delivery. However, mid-wicket fielder Ajinkya Rahane’s smart fielding saw him slide and clutch the ball.</p>

<p>Rahane was not in control of the momentum and was approaching the boundary line which could have resulted in a six for Virat. However, his presence of mind did not let him down as he threw the ball towards his colleague Rachin Ravindra who was also approaching the ball. The process resulted in a relay catch which sent Virat packing home towards the pavilion on 21 off 20.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-we-were-always-little-bit-behind-rcb-skipper-faf-du-plessis-reflects-on-opening-day-defeat-to-csk-703333">IPL 2024: We were always little bit behind - RCB skipper Faf du Plessis reflects on opening day defeat to CSK</a></p>

<h2><strong>CSK make winning start</strong></h2>

<p>Having won the toss, RCB made a good start with Faf (35 off 23) and Virat Kohli (21 off 20) putting CSK bowlers under pressure, however, a spell of three wickets in two overs completely changed the landscape of the innings. The visitors were soon narrowed to 42/3 despite being 41/0 as they looked in good nick. The poor spell saw Glenn Maxwell and Rajat Patidar depart for ducks before a late rescue act from wicketkeeper-batter Anuj Rawat (48 off 25) and veteran Dinesh Karthik (38 off 26) saw RCB end with 173/6.</p>

<p>However, the total was not enough with CSK too making a good start with the bat. In a complete team performance, everyone contributed with the bat as the home side won with eight balls to spare. Ruturaj Gaikwad (15), Rachin Ravindra (37 off 15), Ajinkya Rahane (27), Daryl Mitchell (22), Shivam Dube (unbeaten 34) and Ravindra Jadeja (unbeaten 25), helped CSK steer to an opening day six-wicket win.</p>

<p>CSK next take on Gujarat Titans in Chennai on Tuesday. On the other hand, RCB will look to get their first win of the season when they next take on Punjab Kings in their first home game of the season on Monday in Bengaluru.</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season got off to a sensational start as hosts and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the opening encounter on Friday (Mar 22).

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season got off to a sensational start as hosts and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the opening encounter on Friday (Mar 22). CSK’s six-wicket win against RCB was highlighted by a complete team performance in all aspects, including fielding. One of the highlight reels of CSK’s win was when their fielders combined to dismiss Virat Kohli, which left the former India captain red-faced. Brilliant teamwork from Ajinkya Rahane and Rachin Ravindra. 🔥#AjinkyaRahane #icc #IPL #cricket pic.twitter.com/WN2vmwWuih — Cricadium CRICKET (@Cricadium) March 22, 2024 × Ajinkya Rahane, Rachin Ravindra leave Virat stunned After a good start and then a mini collapse RCB were 77/3 with Virat and Cameron Green in the middle for the visitors. On the second ball of the 12th over, Virat almost cleared the in-field for a six on Mustafizur Rahman’s delivery. However, mid-wicket fielder Ajinkya Rahane’s smart fielding saw him slide and clutch the ball. Rahane was not in control of the momentum and was approaching the boundary line which could have resulted in a six for Virat. However, his presence of mind did not let him down as he threw the ball towards his colleague Rachin Ravindra who was also approaching the ball. The process resulted in a relay catch which sent Virat packing home towards the pavilion on 21 off 20. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: We were always little bit behind - RCB skipper Faf du Plessis reflects on opening day defeat to CSK CSK make winning start Having won the toss, RCB made a good start with Faf (35 off 23) and Virat Kohli (21 off 20) putting CSK bowlers under pressure, however, a spell of three wickets in two overs completely changed the landscape of the innings. The visitors were soon narrowed to 42/3 despite being 41/0 as they looked in good nick. The poor spell saw Glenn Maxwell and Rajat Patidar depart for ducks before a late rescue act from wicketkeeper-batter Anuj Rawat (48 off 25) and veteran Dinesh Karthik (38 off 26) saw RCB end with 173/6. However, the total was not enough with CSK too making a good start with the bat. In a complete team performance, everyone contributed with the bat as the home side won with eight balls to spare. Ruturaj Gaikwad (15), Rachin Ravindra (37 off 15), Ajinkya Rahane (27), Daryl Mitchell (22), Shivam Dube (unbeaten 34) and Ravindra Jadeja (unbeaten 25), helped CSK steer to an opening day six-wicket win. CSK next take on Gujarat Titans in Chennai on Tuesday. On the other hand, RCB will look to get their first win of the season when they next take on Punjab Kings in their first home game of the season on Monday in Bengaluru.

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli left stunned as Ajinkya Rahane, Rachin Ravindra pull unbelievable relay catch - WATCH

<p>The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League is about to get underway, with two giants of the league – Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, slated to face off in the curtain-raiser at Chepauk on Friday (March 22). While MS Dhoni relinquishing CSK’s captaincy on the eve of the IPL 2024 opener made headlines, the contest between the two powerhouses is one to look out for. Here is the match preview and result prediction of CSK vs RCB in IPL 2024.</p>

<h2>Will RCB break Chepauk jinx?</h2>

<p>The Royal Challengers Bangalore has never beaten Chennai at their home ground since 2008. With former CSK hero Faf du Plessis leading the RCB side against the home favourite, emotions and action will flare up.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-youve-to-respect-his-decision-csk-ceo-on-ms-dhoni-handing-over-captaincy-to-gaikwad-702800">IPL 2024: ‘You’ve to respect his decision’ – CSK CEO on MS Dhoni handing over captaincy to Gaikwad</a></strong></p>

<p>The travelling RCB side has a few new faces, with Australian all-rounder Cameron Green being an exciting addition to the squad. Veteran Virat Kohli is also returning to competitive cricket after nearly two months, and the fans in attendance will remain on their toes to watch some of the greats go up against each other.</p>

<p>A new-look bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj, will have a lot riding on their shoulders as RCB aims to walk into Chepauk to end their losing run against CSK.</p>

<h3>CSK ready to flourish under new captain Gaikwad</h3>

<p>MS Dhoni handing over the IPL captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad sent shockwaves to everyone in the cricket world, with the announcement coming on the eve of IPL 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with a new face at the helm, Chennai Super Kings will embark on a new journey starting Friday at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the addition of the new players to the side, including the Kiwi pair of Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell and Indian youngster Sameer Rizvi, CSK has a lot to look forward to this season.&nbsp;</p>

<h4>Result Prediction&nbsp;-</h4>

<p>At Chepauk, the IPL 2024 opener will be played on the centre wicket, which traditionally assists spinners. Considering the spin depth in CSK, they will walk in as favourites against the travelling RCB side.</p>

<p><strong>Predicted Playing XIs –</strong></p>

<p><strong>CSK -</strong> Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Moeen Ali, Ajinkya Rahane, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar and Maheesh Theekshana</p>

<p><strong>RCB -</strong>&nbsp;Faf du Plessis (c), Cameron Green, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Suyash Prabhudessai, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Mayank Dagar, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj</p>


The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League is about to get underway, with two giants of the league – Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, slated to face off in the curtain-raiser at Chepauk on Friday (March 22).

The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League is about to get underway, with two giants of the league – Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, slated to face off in the curtain-raiser at Chepauk on Friday (March 22). While MS Dhoni relinquishing CSK’s captaincy on the eve of the IPL 2024 opener made headlines, the contest between the two powerhouses is one to look out for. Here is the match preview and result prediction of CSK vs RCB in IPL 2024. Will RCB break Chepauk jinx? The Royal Challengers Bangalore has never beaten Chennai at their home ground since 2008. With former CSK hero Faf du Plessis leading the RCB side against the home favourite, emotions and action will flare up. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: ‘You’ve to respect his decision’ – CSK CEO on MS Dhoni handing over captaincy to Gaikwad The travelling RCB side has a few new faces, with Australian all-rounder Cameron Green being an exciting addition to the squad. Veteran Virat Kohli is also returning to competitive cricket after nearly two months, and the fans in attendance will remain on their toes to watch some of the greats go up against each other. A new-look bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj, will have a lot riding on their shoulders as RCB aims to walk into Chepauk to end their losing run against CSK. CSK ready to flourish under new captain Gaikwad MS Dhoni handing over the IPL captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad sent shockwaves to everyone in the cricket world, with the announcement coming on the eve of IPL 2024. However, with a new face at the helm, Chennai Super Kings will embark on a new journey starting Friday at home. With the addition of the new players to the side, including the Kiwi pair of Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell and Indian youngster Sameer Rizvi, CSK has a lot to look forward to this season. Result Prediction - At Chepauk, the IPL 2024 opener will be played on the centre wicket, which traditionally assists spinners. Considering the spin depth in CSK, they will walk in as favourites against the travelling RCB side. Predicted Playing XIs – CSK - Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Moeen Ali, Ajinkya Rahane, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar and Maheesh Theekshana RCB - Faf du Plessis (c), Cameron Green, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Suyash Prabhudessai, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Alzarri Joseph, Mayank Dagar, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj

IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Match 1: Match preview and result prediction

<p>India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru veteran Virat Kohli created history on Friday (March 22) during the IPL 2024 opener against Chennai Super Kings by becoming the first Indian batter and sixth overall to complete 12,000 runs in T20 cricket. Kohli achieved this feat in the 7th over against Jadeja while completing a single on the first ball.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Per the records, Kohli (360 innings) is also the second quickest batter to 12,000 runs in T20s, with West Indian legend Chris Gayle (345 innings) leading the chart. Kohli became the sixth batter after Gayle, Shoaib Malik, Kieron Pollard, Alex Hales and David Warner to breach the 12000-run-mark.</p>

<h2>Batters quickest to 12000 T20 Runs (Innings wise) –</h2>

<ul>
	<li>345 - Chris Gayle</li>
	<li>360 - Virat Kohli</li>
	<li>368 - David Warner</li>
	<li>432 - Alex Hales</li>
	<li>451 - Shoaib Malik</li>
	<li>550 - Kieron Pollard</li>
</ul>

<p>During the game, he also completed 1000 runs against CSK in the competition, becoming the first Indian batter to unlock this achievement against two teams (Delhi Capitals) in IPL.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-good-to-catch-up-with-ms-dhoni-rcbs-virat-kohli-excited-for-curtain-raiser-vs-csk-703102">IPL 2024: ‘Good to catch up with MS Dhoni’ – RCB’s Virat Kohli excited for curtain raiser vs CSK</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Virat is the leading run-scorer in the tournament’s history, having scored 7284 runs in 238 innings, including 50 fifties and seven IPL centuries. While he remained the fourth-highest run-scorer last season, hitting 639 runs for his franchise, Virat failed to guide his team into the playoffs.</p>

<p>As a batter, Virat’s best season was the 2016 edition, wherein he scored 973 runs, scoring four hundreds – an all-time IPL record thus far. Leading the side that season, Virat’s RCB lost to SunRisers Hyderabad in a high-scoring final.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Virat among runs in IPL 2024 opener</h3>

<p>Batting first after winning the toss, RCB captain Faf du Plessis got the touring side to a blistering start, smashing fours at will inside the Powerplay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after losing three quick wickets inside two overs, Virat took the onus on himself and went after the CSK bowlers, targeting the spinners. Although his 20-ball 21-run-stay at the crease saw him hit just one six, Virat continued making headlines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman dismissed him, caught in the deep by a combined effort from Ajinkya Rahane and Rachin Ravindra.&nbsp;</p>


India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru veteran Virat Kohli created history on Friday (March 22) during the IPL 2024 opener against Chennai Super Kings by becoming the first Indian batter and sixth overall to complete 12,000 runs in T20 cricket.

India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru veteran Virat Kohli created history on Friday (March 22) during the IPL 2024 opener against Chennai Super Kings by becoming the first Indian batter and sixth overall to complete 12,000 runs in T20 cricket. Kohli achieved this feat in the 7th over against Jadeja while completing a single on the first ball. Per the records, Kohli (360 innings) is also the second quickest batter to 12,000 runs in T20s, with West Indian legend Chris Gayle (345 innings) leading the chart. Kohli became the sixth batter after Gayle, Shoaib Malik, Kieron Pollard, Alex Hales and David Warner to breach the 12000-run-mark. Batters quickest to 12000 T20 Runs (Innings wise) – 345 - Chris Gayle 360 - Virat Kohli 368 - David Warner 432 - Alex Hales 451 - Shoaib Malik 550 - Kieron Pollard During the game, he also completed 1000 runs against CSK in the competition, becoming the first Indian batter to unlock this achievement against two teams (Delhi Capitals) in IPL. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: ‘Good to catch up with MS Dhoni’ – RCB’s Virat Kohli excited for curtain raiser vs CSK Meanwhile, Virat is the leading run-scorer in the tournament’s history, having scored 7284 runs in 238 innings, including 50 fifties and seven IPL centuries. While he remained the fourth-highest run-scorer last season, hitting 639 runs for his franchise, Virat failed to guide his team into the playoffs. As a batter, Virat’s best season was the 2016 edition, wherein he scored 973 runs, scoring four hundreds – an all-time IPL record thus far. Leading the side that season, Virat’s RCB lost to SunRisers Hyderabad in a high-scoring final. Virat among runs in IPL 2024 opener Batting first after winning the toss, RCB captain Faf du Plessis got the touring side to a blistering start, smashing fours at will inside the Powerplay. However, after losing three quick wickets inside two overs, Virat took the onus on himself and went after the CSK bowlers, targeting the spinners. Although his 20-ball 21-run-stay at the crease saw him hit just one six, Virat continued making headlines. Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman dismissed him, caught in the deep by a combined effort from Ajinkya Rahane and Rachin Ravindra.

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st Indian to complete 12,000 runs in T20s

<p>Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2024 curtain raiser at home, and cricket’s star boy Virat Kohli is excited for the Southern derby. Considered to be among the marquee matches in the tournament, CSK vs RCB is like the clash of the Titans. Speaking ahead of the opener on March 22 (Friday), Kohli said he cannot wait to take the field against CSK and meet his old teammate and former captain MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>"Playing against Chennai is obviously always a special occasion, a big game. You know, the Southern Derby, as they call it. Yeah, it's nice to play in front of very passionate Chennai fans, and yeah, good to catch up with MS Dhoni, it's been a while," Virat said on RCB’s bold diaries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Virat, being the top run-getter in the IPL&nbsp;with 7263 runs in 229 innings, including seven hundreds and 50 fifties, will be a threat to the home side in the IPL 2024 opener. Batting at the top alongside captain and former CSK hero Faf du Plessis, the pair will look to make it big and end RCB’s winless run in Chennai since 2008.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-there-wasnt-a-dry-eye-in-the-dressing-room-fleming-on-ms-dhonis-resignation-as-csk-captain-703080">IPL 2024: 'There wasn't a dry eye in the dressing room: Fleming on MS Dhoni's resignation as CSK captain</a></strong></p>

<p>Even last season, Virat starred with the bat in hand, slamming 639 runs at an average of 53.25 and a strike rate close to 140. While he was the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament, he failed to guide his team to the playoffs, as they finished outside the top four.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with the addition of several new faces in the squad for this season, including overseas stars like Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Tom Curran and Lockie Ferguson, RCB will look to turn the tables around and replicate what their women's team did this season, winning the tournament for the first time.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>RCB’s Full Squad for IPL 2024 –</h2>

<p>Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh and Saurav Chauhan</p>


Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2024 curtain raiser at home, and cricket’s star boy Virat Kohli is excited for the Southern derby.

Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2024 curtain raiser at home, and cricket’s star boy Virat Kohli is excited for the Southern derby. Considered to be among the marquee matches in the tournament, CSK vs RCB is like the clash of the Titans. Speaking ahead of the opener on March 22 (Friday), Kohli said he cannot wait to take the field against CSK and meet his old teammate and former captain MS Dhoni. "Playing against Chennai is obviously always a special occasion, a big game. You know, the Southern Derby, as they call it. Yeah, it's nice to play in front of very passionate Chennai fans, and yeah, good to catch up with MS Dhoni, it's been a while," Virat said on RCB’s bold diaries. Meanwhile, Virat, being the top run-getter in the IPL with 7263 runs in 229 innings, including seven hundreds and 50 fifties, will be a threat to the home side in the IPL 2024 opener. Batting at the top alongside captain and former CSK hero Faf du Plessis, the pair will look to make it big and end RCB’s winless run in Chennai since 2008. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: 'There wasn't a dry eye in the dressing room: Fleming on MS Dhoni's resignation as CSK captain Even last season, Virat starred with the bat in hand, slamming 639 runs at an average of 53.25 and a strike rate close to 140. While he was the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament, he failed to guide his team to the playoffs, as they finished outside the top four. However, with the addition of several new faces in the squad for this season, including overseas stars like Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Tom Curran and Lockie Ferguson, RCB will look to turn the tables around and replicate what their women's team did this season, winning the tournament for the first time. RCB’s Full Squad for IPL 2024 – Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh and Saurav Chauhan

IPL 2024: ‘Good to catch up with MS Dhoni’ – RCB’s Virat Kohli excited for curtain raiser vs CSK

<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season is all set for kickoff as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will raise the roofs with a grand curtain raiser. The opening match will see two greats of the game, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli go head-to-head while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis wear the captain&nbsp;armbands. Ahead of the contest, Du Plessis opened up on the Dhoni-Virat involvement in the opening match and why it will be the key attraction.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Game Day, RCB v CSK, Preview: It’s a blockbuster opening to this new chapter in the RCB heritage. Coach, Captain and his Comrades are geared up, and keen to begin the season Bold! 💪<br />
<br />
Watch the preview on <a href="https://twitter.com/bigbasket_com?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bigbasket_com</a> presents Game Day. Download the Big Basket App for more…… <a href="https://t.co/gntW9kHz2n">pic.twitter.com/gntW9kHz2n</a></p>
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1771021328352731506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Faf highlights Dhoni-Virat attraction</strong></h2>

<p>"It has been a really great week, Andy and Mo have done some incredible things. We really gel together as a squad, so it has been good preparation. Obviously, what better way can you start the IPL, than the game you have tomorrow, two of India's greatest - MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli in the opening match of the IPL, so everyone is just excited for the game," Faf said in a video released by RCB.</p>

<p>Friday’s meeting will be a special occasion for Virat and Dhoni, who remain one of the seven players to have played in every season of the IPL. Dhoni will be in his 15th season with CSK as he remains the only player to play every season for the franchise. Similarly, Virat will be in his 17th season with RCB and remains the only one-club player to have played every season of IPL.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-full-updated-squad-ipl-2024-chennai-super-kings-probable-playing-xi-replacement-captain-schedule-702685">CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule</a></p>

<p>Both Dhoni and Virat played in the CSK vs RCB meeting in the inaugural season of the IPL, which to date remains the only time Bengaluru beat Chennai at the MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium. The match will start at 7:30 pm with the toss taking place at 7:00 pm. The opening ceremony will start at 6:00 pm, with stars like AR Rahman set to perform.</p>

<h2><strong>CSK IPL 2024 Squad</strong></h2>

<p>MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season is all set for kickoff as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will raise the roofs with a grand curtain raiser.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season is all set for kickoff as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will raise the roofs with a grand curtain raiser. The opening match will see two greats of the game, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli go head-to-head while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis wear the captain armbands. Ahead of the contest, Du Plessis opened up on the Dhoni-Virat involvement in the opening match and why it will be the key attraction. Game Day, RCB v CSK, Preview: It’s a blockbuster opening to this new chapter in the RCB heritage. Coach, Captain and his Comrades are geared up, and keen to begin the season Bold! 💪 Watch the preview on @bigbasket_com presents Game Day. Download the Big Basket App for more…… pic.twitter.com/gntW9kHz2n — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) March 22, 2024 × Faf highlights Dhoni-Virat attraction "It has been a really great week, Andy and Mo have done some incredible things. We really gel together as a squad, so it has been good preparation. Obviously, what better way can you start the IPL, than the game you have tomorrow, two of India's greatest - MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli in the opening match of the IPL, so everyone is just excited for the game," Faf said in a video released by RCB. Friday’s meeting will be a special occasion for Virat and Dhoni, who remain one of the seven players to have played in every season of the IPL. Dhoni will be in his 15th season with CSK as he remains the only player to play every season for the franchise. Similarly, Virat will be in his 17th season with RCB and remains the only one-club player to have played every season of IPL. ALSO READ | CSK Full Updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings probable playing XI, replacement, captain, schedule Both Dhoni and Virat played in the CSK vs RCB meeting in the inaugural season of the IPL, which to date remains the only time Bengaluru beat Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The match will start at 7:30 pm with the toss taking place at 7:00 pm. The opening ceremony will start at 6:00 pm, with stars like AR Rahman set to perform. CSK IPL 2024 Squad MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly

IPL 2024: Faf du Plessis excited ahead of CSK vs RCB curtain raiser; says Dhoni, Virat are key attractions

<p><strong>RCB IPL Auction 2024 LIVE: </strong>The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise ended sixth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. The Faf du Plessis-led franchise had their moments but couldn't capitalise on them fully to see themselves bow out of the playoffs race on the last day of the league stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With some big players up for grabs in the auction, RCB bought six players for a total amount of INR 20.40 crore. Their most expensive buy was West Indian bowler Alzzari Joseph while they bought two uncapped players for their base price of INR 20 lakh.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>RCB buys at IPL 2024 Auction:</strong></p>

<p>RCB acquire Alzarri Joseph for <strong>INR 11.5 crore (115 million).</strong></p>

<p>RCB buy Yash Dayal for <strong>INR 5 crore.</strong></p>

<p>RCB buy Tom Currant for INR <strong>1.5 Crore.</strong></p>

<p>RCB buy Lockie Ferguson for <strong>INR 2.0 crore.</strong></p>

<p>RCB by Swapnil Singh for <strong>INR 20 lakh.</strong></p>

<p>RCB buy Saurav Chauhan for <strong>INR 20 lakh.</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rr-ipl-auction-2024-live-rajasthan-royals-captain-batsmen-bowlers-keepers-remaining-purse-squads-670923">RR IPL Auction 2024 LIVE: Rajasthan Royals Captain, Batsmen, Bowlers, Keepers, Remaining Purse, squads</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>RCB IPL Auction 2024: Royal Challengers Bangalore full squad, captain, batters, bowlers, remaining purse</strong></h2>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Royal Challengers Bangalore</b></p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><strong>Purse </strong>- INR 2.85 Crore || Slots left - 0&nbsp;|| Overseas slots left - 0</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Existing squad breakdown before auction</b></p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Top-order batters</b>: Faf du Plessis, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Finishers</b>: Suyash Prabhudessai, Dinesh Karthik, Mahipal Lomror</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Allrounders</b>: Cameron Green, Glenn Maxwell, Will Jacks, Manoj Bhandage</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Spinners</b>: Mayank Dagar, Karn Sharma, Himanshu Sharma</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Fast bowlers</b>: Rajan Kumar, Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley</p>
</section>

<p><b>Royal Challengers Bangalore full squad:</b>&nbsp;Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar (Traded), Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green (Traded), Alzarri Joseph,&nbsp;Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh, Saurav Chauhan</p>


RCB IPL Auction 2024 LIVE: The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise ended sixth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. The Faf du Plessis-led franchise had their moments but couldn't capitalise on them fully to see themselves bow out of the playoffs race on the last day of the league stage.

RCB IPL Auction 2024 LIVE: The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise ended sixth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. The Faf du Plessis-led franchise had their moments but couldn't capitalise on them fully to see themselves bow out of the playoffs race on the last day of the league stage. With some big players up for grabs in the auction, RCB bought six players for a total amount of INR 20.40 crore. Their most expensive buy was West Indian bowler Alzzari Joseph while they bought two uncapped players for their base price of INR 20 lakh. RCB buys at IPL 2024 Auction: RCB acquire Alzarri Joseph for INR 11.5 crore (115 million). RCB buy Yash Dayal for INR 5 crore. RCB buy Tom Currant for INR 1.5 Crore. RCB buy Lockie Ferguson for INR 2.0 crore. RCB by Swapnil Singh for INR 20 lakh. RCB buy Saurav Chauhan for INR 20 lakh. Also read: RR IPL Auction 2024 LIVE: Rajasthan Royals Captain, Batsmen, Bowlers, Keepers, Remaining Purse, squads RCB IPL Auction 2024: Royal Challengers Bangalore full squad, captain, batters, bowlers, remaining purse Royal Challengers Bangalore Purse - INR 2.85 Crore || Slots left - 0 || Overseas slots left - 0 Existing squad breakdown before auction Top-order batters: Faf du Plessis, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat Finishers: Suyash Prabhudessai, Dinesh Karthik, Mahipal Lomror Allrounders: Cameron Green, Glenn Maxwell, Will Jacks, Manoj Bhandage Spinners: Mayank Dagar, Karn Sharma, Himanshu Sharma Fast bowlers: Rajan Kumar, Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley Royal Challengers Bangalore full squad: Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar (Traded), Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green (Traded), Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh, Saurav Chauhan

RCB 2024 updated squad: IPL 2024, Royal Challengers Bangalore, probable XI, ruled out & replacement, schedule

<p>It was a grand unboxing event for Royal Challengers Bangalore as they rebranded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Tuesday (Mar 19) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The event was graced by the presence of current stars of RCB men’s and women’s teams, including former skipper Virat Kohli. One of the greats of the game, Virat addressed the local crowd in the Kannada language as he prepares for his 17th consecutive season with the South Indian giants.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat Kohli speaking Kannada.<br />
<br />
- "THE NEW CHAPTER OF RCB" 👑<a href="https://t.co/KQWk4Wdab8">pic.twitter.com/KQWk4Wdab8</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1770113021869977623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Virat speaks Kannada</strong></h2>

<p>Virat alongside captain Faf du Plessis during the show stole the hearts with a sentence in Kannada, saying, “Idu RCB'ya Hosa Adhyaya (This is the new chapter of RCB).”</p>

<p>The crowd was ecstatic following Virat’s address while few were left stunned by his Kannada accent. The event was a special occasion for multiple reasons as RCB won their first trophy on Sunday when their women’s team beat Delhi Capitals in the final of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). The RCB women’s team was given a standing ovation by the crowd.</p>

<p>The men’s team was also present at the event and gave a guard of honour to the women’s team for their remarkable achievement in WPL. Winning captain Smriti Mandhana then led her squad in a victory lap around the ground with the trophy in tow to rapturous cheers from a near-capacity crowd. The main highlight of the event was the change in brand name from Bangalore to Bengaluru.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-bars-russian-belarusian-athletes-from-paris-olympics-opening-ceremony-702038">IOC bars Russia, Belarusia from Paris Olympics opening ceremony</a></p>

<p>During the event, RCB also inducted Karnataka legend and former player Vinay Kumar into the franchise's Hall of Fame. Vinay played five seasons for RCB with his best season coming in 2013, where he claimed 23 wickets at 21.43.</p>

<p>RCB will start the IPL 2024 campaign on Friday when they take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the curtain-raiser at the MA&nbsp;Chidambaram Stadium.</p>

<h2><strong>RCB’s full squad for IPL 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Faf du Plessis (C), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh, Saurav Chauhan.</p>


It was a grand unboxing event for Royal Challengers Bangalore as they rebranded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Tuesday (Mar 19) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

It was a grand unboxing event for Royal Challengers Bangalore as they rebranded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Tuesday (Mar 19) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The event was graced by the presence of current stars of RCB men’s and women’s teams, including former skipper Virat Kohli. One of the greats of the game, Virat addressed the local crowd in the Kannada language as he prepares for his 17th consecutive season with the South Indian giants. Virat Kohli speaking Kannada. - "THE NEW CHAPTER OF RCB" 👑pic.twitter.com/KQWk4Wdab8 — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 19, 2024 × Virat speaks Kannada Virat alongside captain Faf du Plessis during the show stole the hearts with a sentence in Kannada, saying, “Idu RCB'ya Hosa Adhyaya (This is the new chapter of RCB).” The crowd was ecstatic following Virat’s address while few were left stunned by his Kannada accent. The event was a special occasion for multiple reasons as RCB won their first trophy on Sunday when their women’s team beat Delhi Capitals in the final of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). The RCB women’s team was given a standing ovation by the crowd. The men’s team was also present at the event and gave a guard of honour to the women’s team for their remarkable achievement in WPL. Winning captain Smriti Mandhana then led her squad in a victory lap around the ground with the trophy in tow to rapturous cheers from a near-capacity crowd. The main highlight of the event was the change in brand name from Bangalore to Bengaluru. ALSO READ | IOC bars Russia, Belarusia from Paris Olympics opening ceremony During the event, RCB also inducted Karnataka legend and former player Vinay Kumar into the franchise's Hall of Fame. Vinay played five seasons for RCB with his best season coming in 2013, where he claimed 23 wickets at 21.43. RCB will start the IPL 2024 campaign on Friday when they take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the curtain-raiser at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. RCB’s full squad for IPL 2024 Faf du Plessis (C), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh, Saurav Chauhan.

IPL 2024: Virat Kohli wins over Bengaluru crowd with flawless Kannada during RCB Unbox event. Watch!

<p>Indian cricketer Virat Kohli on Tuesday (Mar 19) urged his fans to stop calling him "King", saying he felt embarrassed by the popular monicker bestowed upon him. Kohli was addressing the fans gathered at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium where RCB was rechristened as Royal Challengers Bengaluru.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli walked to the stage as the boisterous crowd went berserk and started chanting his name. Upon being&nbsp;asked how he was feeling after returning to the cricket field post the birth of his second child, Kohli said it was "lovely to be back again".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Upon hearing their star player's statement, the crowd went crazy yet&nbsp;again and 'Kohli, Kohli' chants started reverberating across the stadium.</p>

<p>A visibly elated Kohli, playfully told the crowd: "Let me talk. Guys, we have to get to Chennai tonight we have a chartered flight so we don't have time (laughs)."</p>

<p>"Firstly, you need to stop calling me that word (King). Please call me Virat. Don't call me that word (king), I was just telling Faf du Plessis that I feel embarrassed every year when you call me that word. So just call me Virat, please, from now on, don't use that word, it's very embarrassing for me," Kohli added.</p>

<p>Having made his India debut in 2008 and stayed with RCB since then, Kohli has become a fan favourite across the globe. Owing to his throughouly imposing nature on the field, fans refer to him as 'King' and it has become associated with his name.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-unbox-2024-live-updates-check-date-time-venue-and-live-streaming-details-701448"><b>Also read |&nbsp;RCB Unbox Event 2024 LIVE Updates: Virat Kohli unveils new RCB jersey</b></a></p>

<p>Notably, Tuesday wasn't the first instance when Kohli urged the fans to not call him 'king'.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s sweet. I know why they are saying it, but I don’t prefer it. I like to be called by my own name, Virat,” he said last years on RCB Insider show.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People tell me King out of love, but I personally don’t prefer it. Like ‘Ee Sala Cup Namdhe’, don’t say ‘King’," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>RCB rechristened</strong></h2>

<p>After urging the crowd, Kohli alongside skipper Faf du Plessis and women's team captain Smriti Mandhana unveiled the new jersey and name.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rcb-officially-change-name-to-royal-challengers-bengaluru-in-glitzy-ceremony-701988"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;RCB officially change name to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in glitzy ceremony</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, the state government of Karnataka in 2014 changed the name of the city to Bengaluru from Bangalore. Since then, there had been demands that the franchise management change the name but the team stuck with the name adopted in 2008, during the inaugural edition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(WIth inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian cricketer Virat Kohli on Tuesday (Mar 19) urged his fans to stop calling him "King", saying he felt embarrassed by the popular monicker bestowed upon him.

Indian cricketer Virat Kohli on Tuesday (Mar 19) urged his fans to stop calling him "King", saying he felt embarrassed by the popular monicker bestowed upon him. Kohli was addressing the fans gathered at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium where RCB was rechristened as Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Kohli walked to the stage as the boisterous crowd went berserk and started chanting his name. Upon being asked how he was feeling after returning to the cricket field post the birth of his second child, Kohli said it was "lovely to be back again". Upon hearing their star player's statement, the crowd went crazy yet again and 'Kohli, Kohli' chants started reverberating across the stadium. A visibly elated Kohli, playfully told the crowd: "Let me talk. Guys, we have to get to Chennai tonight we have a chartered flight so we don't have time (laughs)." "Firstly, you need to stop calling me that word (King). Please call me Virat. Don't call me that word (king), I was just telling Faf du Plessis that I feel embarrassed every year when you call me that word. So just call me Virat, please, from now on, don't use that word, it's very embarrassing for me," Kohli added. Having made his India debut in 2008 and stayed with RCB since then, Kohli has become a fan favourite across the globe. Owing to his throughouly imposing nature on the field, fans refer to him as 'King' and it has become associated with his name. Also read | RCB Unbox Event 2024 LIVE Updates: Virat Kohli unveils new RCB jersey Notably, Tuesday wasn't the first instance when Kohli urged the fans to not call him 'king'. “It’s sweet. I know why they are saying it, but I don’t prefer it. I like to be called by my own name, Virat,” he said last years on RCB Insider show. "People tell me King out of love, but I personally don’t prefer it. Like ‘Ee Sala Cup Namdhe’, don’t say ‘King’," he added. RCB rechristened After urging the crowd, Kohli alongside skipper Faf du Plessis and women's team captain Smriti Mandhana unveiled the new jersey and name. Also read | RCB officially change name to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in glitzy ceremony Notably, the state government of Karnataka in 2014 changed the name of the city to Bengaluru from Bangalore. Since then, there had been demands that the franchise management change the name but the team stuck with the name adopted in 2008, during the inaugural edition. (WIth inputs from agencies)

‘It embarrasses me’: Virat Kohli tells RCB fans to STOP calling him this...

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidYTfL8zHGXX5i" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong>RCB Unbox Event 2024 Live Streaming Online:&nbsp;</strong>Royal Challengers Bangalore will host the unboxing event for the third season and the second time in Bengaluru, the team's home venue. Royal Challengers Bangalore launched Unbox in 2024. The event aims to engage with their 12th-man army. The Bengaluru-based franchise uses the event to launch jerseys and introduce players and significant personnel.</p>

<p>In their first event, held at Church Street in Bengaluru, they announced Faf du Plessis as skipper. In 2023, the team hosted the event at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where they added cricketing legends AB De Villiers and Chris Gayle to the hall of fame.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore will hold the event just three days before they play their first game of the season. While the RCB-W, led by Smriti Mandhana, has already brought the trophy home, the RCB boys are ready to take on Chennai Super Kings on March 22 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>

<p>This year, the IPL franchise has hinted at a name change from Bangalore to Bengaluru. They might also unveil the new jersey. Here's everything you need to know about the RCB Unbox 2024 event.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-unbox-2024-check-live-streaming-details-list-of-performers-celebrities-cricketers-attending-the-event-701438"><strong>RCB UNBOX Event 2024 Live Streaming</strong></a></h2>

<h3><strong>When is the RCB Unbox 2024 event?</strong></h3>

<p>The Royal Challengers Bangalore Unbox event is on Tuesday (Mar 19).&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>When will the RCB Unbox 2024 event start?</strong></h3>

<p>The Royal Challengers Bangalore Unbox event will begin at 4 pm IST.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Where can I get tickets for the RCB Unbox event 2024?</strong></h3>

<p>The tickets for RCB Unbox are available on the RCB website. The event tickets range from ₹800 to ₹4,000. According to the website, one person can buy up to six tickets in a single login. The franchise will also give free add-ons with the ticket in the form of Jersey, available in all sizes (S to XXL).</p>

<h2><strong>Where can I watch the RCB Unbox event?</strong></h2>

<p>Fans who are not in Bengaluru can catch the event live on Royal Challengers Bangalore's official YouTube channel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>RCB Unbox 2024 Performers List</strong></h2>

<p>Alan Walker</p>

<p>Raghu Dixit</p>

<p>Neeti Mohan</p>

<p>Brodha V</p>

<p>Jordindian</p>

<p>Barfi</p>

<p>Katcheri</p>

<p><strong>Celebrities &amp; Players Likely to Attend RCB Unbox 2024</strong></p>

<p>Rishabh Shetty</p>

<p>Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar</p>

<p>Shiva Rajkumar</p>

<p>Kiccha Sudeep</p>

<p>RCB women's team led by Smriti Mandhana</p>

<p>Faf Du Plessis</p>

<p>Virat Kohli</p>

<p>Glenn Maxwell</p>

<p>Dinesh Karthik</p>

<p>All the other RCB players in pre-camp</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


RCB Unbox Event 2024 Live Streaming Online: Royal Challengers Bangalore will host the unboxing event for the third season and the second time in Bengaluru, the team's home venue.

RCB Unbox Event 2024 Live Streaming Online: Royal Challengers Bangalore will host the unboxing event for the third season and the second time in Bengaluru, the team's home venue. Royal Challengers Bangalore launched Unbox in 2024. The event aims to engage with their 12th-man army. The Bengaluru-based franchise uses the event to launch jerseys and introduce players and significant personnel. In their first event, held at Church Street in Bengaluru, they announced Faf du Plessis as skipper. In 2023, the team hosted the event at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where they added cricketing legends AB De Villiers and Chris Gayle to the hall of fame. Royal Challengers Bangalore will hold the event just three days before they play their first game of the season. While the RCB-W, led by Smriti Mandhana, has already brought the trophy home, the RCB boys are ready to take on Chennai Super Kings on March 22 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This year, the IPL franchise has hinted at a name change from Bangalore to Bengaluru. They might also unveil the new jersey. Here's everything you need to know about the RCB Unbox 2024 event. RCB UNBOX Event 2024 Live Streaming When is the RCB Unbox 2024 event? The Royal Challengers Bangalore Unbox event is on Tuesday (Mar 19). When will the RCB Unbox 2024 event start? The Royal Challengers Bangalore Unbox event will begin at 4 pm IST. Where can I get tickets for the RCB Unbox event 2024? The tickets for RCB Unbox are available on the RCB website. The event tickets range from ₹800 to ₹4,000. According to the website, one person can buy up to six tickets in a single login. The franchise will also give free add-ons with the ticket in the form of Jersey, available in all sizes (S to XXL). Where can I watch the RCB Unbox event? Fans who are not in Bengaluru can catch the event live on Royal Challengers Bangalore's official YouTube channel. RCB Unbox 2024 Performers List Alan Walker Raghu Dixit Neeti Mohan Brodha V Jordindian Barfi Katcheri Celebrities & Players Likely to Attend RCB Unbox 2024 Rishabh Shetty Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar Shiva Rajkumar Kiccha Sudeep RCB women's team led by Smriti Mandhana Faf Du Plessis Virat Kohli Glenn Maxwell Dinesh Karthik All the other RCB players in pre-camp (With inputs from agencies)

RCB Unbox 2024 Live Streaming: Check streaming details, list of performers, celebs and cricketers attend event

<p>India’s World Cup winner&nbsp;Kirti Azad’s latest social media post has created quite a stir in the cricket circuit surrounding speculations on Virat Kohli’s future in T20I cricket. Taking to the micro-blogging website X (previously known as Twitter), Azad revealed that BCCI secretary Jay Shah had asked chief selector Ajit Agarkar to convince others to drop Kohli for the T20 World Cup (to be held in June in the Caribbean and the USA).</p>

<p>A Telegraph report last week broke the internet claiming that India veteran Virat could face omission from the squad for the marquee event for his inability to make runs on slower pitches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While people close to the information admitted this report to be false, Azad’s latest post contradicts it.</p>

<p>Azad said Shah had given Agarkar time till March 15 to convey the message to the decision-makers within and even Captain Rohit Sharma to drop Kohli for the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-reveals-how-his-plan-to-return-to-indian-world-cup-squad-was-derailed-701080">Hardik Pandya reveals how his plan to return to Indian World Cup squad was derailed</a></strong></p>

<p>As per sources, Rohit declined, saying he needs Kohli at any cost for&nbsp;the ICC event.</p>

<p>Without mentioning any name, Azad even said, “Nincompoops should not involve themselves in the selection process.”</p>

<p>His post read,&nbsp;“Why should Jay Shah, he is not a selector, to give responsibility to Ajit Agarkar to talk to the other selectors and convince them that Virat Kohli is not getting a place in the T20 team. For this, time was given till 15th March. If sources are to be believed, Ajit Agarkar was neither able to convince himself nor the other selectors. Jay Shah asked Rohit Sharma too, but Rohit said we need Virat Kohli at any cost. Virat Kohli will play the T20 World Cup, and its official announcement will be made before the team selection.<br />
Nincompoops&nbsp;should not involve themselves in the selection process.<br />
@imVkohli @ImRo45 @BCCI</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why should Jay Shah, he is not a selector, to give responsibility to Ajit Agarkar to talk to the other selectors and convince them that Virat Kohli is not getting a place in the T20 team. For this, time was given till 15th March. If sources are to be believed, Ajit Agarkar was… <a href="https://t.co/FyaJSClOLw">pic.twitter.com/FyaJSClOLw</a></p>
— Kirti Azad (@KirtiAzaad) <a href="https://twitter.com/KirtiAzaad/status/1769211440693674359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Kohli returns to IPL after the break</h2>

<p>Virat Kohli missed the England Test series for the birth of his second child and has joined his IPL team – Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), ahead of the 17th edition beginning on March 22 in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>RCB and Chennai Super Kings will play IPL 2024 opener.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the T20 World Cup will begin shortly after the IPL 2024, the final schedule of which is yet to be announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the record, India last won the T20 World Cup in 2007 – the inaugural edition in South Africa.&nbsp;</p>


India’s World Cup winner Kirti Azad’s latest social media post has created quite a stir in the cricket circuit surrounding speculations on Virat Kohli’s future in T20I cricket.

India’s World Cup winner Kirti Azad’s latest social media post has created quite a stir in the cricket circuit surrounding speculations on Virat Kohli’s future in T20I cricket. Taking to the micro-blogging website X (previously known as Twitter), Azad revealed that BCCI secretary Jay Shah had asked chief selector Ajit Agarkar to convince others to drop Kohli for the T20 World Cup (to be held in June in the Caribbean and the USA). A Telegraph report last week broke the internet claiming that India veteran Virat could face omission from the squad for the marquee event for his inability to make runs on slower pitches. While people close to the information admitted this report to be false, Azad’s latest post contradicts it. Azad said Shah had given Agarkar time till March 15 to convey the message to the decision-makers within and even Captain Rohit Sharma to drop Kohli for the T20 World Cup. ALSO READ: Hardik Pandya reveals how his plan to return to Indian World Cup squad was derailed As per sources, Rohit declined, saying he needs Kohli at any cost for the ICC event. Without mentioning any name, Azad even said, “Nincompoops should not involve themselves in the selection process.” His post read, “Why should Jay Shah, he is not a selector, to give responsibility to Ajit Agarkar to talk to the other selectors and convince them that Virat Kohli is not getting a place in the T20 team. For this, time was given till 15th March. If sources are to be believed, Ajit Agarkar was neither able to convince himself nor the other selectors. Jay Shah asked Rohit Sharma too, but Rohit said we need Virat Kohli at any cost. Virat Kohli will play the T20 World Cup, and its official announcement will be made before the team selection. Nincompoops should not involve themselves in the selection process. @imVkohli @ImRo45 @BCCI Why should Jay Shah, he is not a selector, to give responsibility to Ajit Agarkar to talk to the other selectors and convince them that Virat Kohli is not getting a place in the T20 team. For this, time was given till 15th March. If sources are to be believed, Ajit Agarkar was… pic.twitter.com/FyaJSClOLw — Kirti Azad (@KirtiAzaad) March 17, 2024 × Kohli returns to IPL after the break Virat Kohli missed the England Test series for the birth of his second child and has joined his IPL team – Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), ahead of the 17th edition beginning on March 22 in Chennai. RCB and Chennai Super Kings will play IPL 2024 opener. Meanwhile, the T20 World Cup will begin shortly after the IPL 2024, the final schedule of which is yet to be announced. For the record, India last won the T20 World Cup in 2007 – the inaugural edition in South Africa.

Rohit refuses to drop Kohli for T20 World Cup, sends clear message to Jay Shah – Reports

<p>Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. In recent times, it has been widely reported that the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, isn't keen on including Kohli in India's T20 WC squad as his game won't suit the wickets in West Indies, co-hosts along with USA for the upcoming mega event. Moreover, the selectors are believed to be more keen in including more power-hitters at the expense of Kohli.</p>

<p>However, Srikkanth -- member of Kapil Dev-led India's 1983 World Cup-winning team -- slammed all such rumours and stated that Kohli 'is a must' in India's squad for the forthcoming ICC tournament.</p>

<p>On his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "No chance. It's not possible to be without Virat Kohli at the T20 World Cup. He is the one who took us to the semi-finals in T20 World Cup 2022. He was the Man of the Tournament. Who is saying all this? These rumour-mongers, don't they have any other job? What is the basis for all this chatter? If India have to win the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli is a must in the squad."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-he-is-the-ipl-graeme-swann-lauds-ms-dhonis-fitness-backs-hardiks-appointment-as-mi-captain-700333">Exclusive: 'He is the IPL' - Graeme Swann lauds MS Dhoni's fitness; backs Hardik's appointment as MI captain</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat'</strong></h2>

<p>Srikkanth further opined, "You need a guy who can just stay there. India need that sheet anchor, be it T20 World Cup or ODI World Cup. Without Virat Kohli, the Indian team cannot go. We need Virat Kohli, 100 percent. I still believe Virat Kohli should be honoured like how Sachin Tendulkar was in 2011. " He added, "The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat. It will be a great thing for Virat Kohli."</p>

<p>At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Talking about his&nbsp;future in the shortest format, he came back into the T20I setup early this year (after 14 months), during the Afghanistan series. Given his impressive record in T20 WC as&nbsp;the leading scorer with 1,141 runs at 131.3, it is unlikely that he will be left out of the&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;squad.</p>

<p>Notably, all the participating teams have to announce their provisional squad by early May.</p>


Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad.

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. In recent times, it has been widely reported that the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, isn't keen on including Kohli in India's T20 WC squad as his game won't suit the wickets in West Indies, co-hosts along with USA for the upcoming mega event. Moreover, the selectors are believed to be more keen in including more power-hitters at the expense of Kohli. However, Srikkanth -- member of Kapil Dev-led India's 1983 World Cup-winning team -- slammed all such rumours and stated that Kohli 'is a must' in India's squad for the forthcoming ICC tournament. On his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "No chance. It's not possible to be without Virat Kohli at the T20 World Cup. He is the one who took us to the semi-finals in T20 World Cup 2022. He was the Man of the Tournament. Who is saying all this? These rumour-mongers, don't they have any other job? What is the basis for all this chatter? If India have to win the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli is a must in the squad." Also read: Exclusive: 'He is the IPL' - Graeme Swann lauds MS Dhoni's fitness; backs Hardik's appointment as MI captain 'The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat' Srikkanth further opined, "You need a guy who can just stay there. India need that sheet anchor, be it T20 World Cup or ODI World Cup. Without Virat Kohli, the Indian team cannot go. We need Virat Kohli, 100 percent. I still believe Virat Kohli should be honoured like how Sachin Tendulkar was in 2011. " He added, "The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat. It will be a great thing for Virat Kohli." At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Talking about his future in the shortest format, he came back into the T20I setup early this year (after 14 months), during the Afghanistan series. Given his impressive record in T20 WC as the leading scorer with 1,141 runs at 131.3, it is unlikely that he will be left out of the Indian squad. Notably, all the participating teams have to announce their provisional squad by early May.

Impossible to be without Virat Kohli at T20 World Cup 2024: Kris Srikkanth slams rumour-mongers

<p>Former England pacer Stuart Broad has rubbished reports claiming that Virat Kohli will be dropped from India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. There have been rumours indicating that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee isn't keen on selecting Kohli in India's T20 WC squad, citing that the slow pitches in West Indies, co-hosts of the event along with USA, won't suit his game style. However, Broad has rubbished all such reports&nbsp;by dropping a huge remark on the upcoming edition's blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan on June 9 in New York.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'ICC putting games on in America, India Vs Pakistan in New York, Virat is the biggest draw'</strong></h2>

<p>In response to the news, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "This can’t be true. Just from a fans point of view of growing the game, the ICC putting games on in America, India Vs Pakistan in New York, Virat is the biggest draw of any player in the world, I’m sure he will be selected."</p>

<p><img alt="Stuart Broad on Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a002d646-931f-4cab-b766-3d7236d986d1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/SB.JPG" /></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-likely-to-be-dropped-to-make-way-for-power-hitters-in-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-reports-699262">Virat Kohli likely to be DROPPED to make way for power hitters in India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Every participating team has&nbsp;to announce the&nbsp;provisional squad by early May. Hence, India's squad is expected to be out during the upcoming IPL 2024 edition. Speaking of Kohli, he is the leading run-getter in T20Is -- with&nbsp;4,037 runs in&nbsp;117 matches at a strike rate of 138.15. He is also the highest run-getter in T20 WC history, with&nbsp;1,141 runs in 27 games at an average of&nbsp;81.5 and strike rate of 131.3. He wasn't part of India's T20I scheme of things since their 2022 T20 WC semifinal loss, to eventual winners England, but returned to the setup -- after 14 months -- during the Afghanistan home series early this year.</p>

<p>At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).&nbsp;</p>


Former England pacer Stuart Broad has rubbished reports claiming that Virat Kohli will be dropped from India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. There have been rumours indicating that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee isn't keen on selecting Kohli in India's T20 WC squad, citing that the slow pitches in West Indies, co-hosts of the event along with USA, won't suit his game style.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has rubbished reports claiming that Virat Kohli will be dropped from India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. There have been rumours indicating that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee isn't keen on selecting Kohli in India's T20 WC squad, citing that the slow pitches in West Indies, co-hosts of the event along with USA, won't suit his game style. However, Broad has rubbished all such reports by dropping a huge remark on the upcoming edition's blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan on June 9 in New York. 'ICC putting games on in America, India Vs Pakistan in New York, Virat is the biggest draw' In response to the news, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "This can’t be true. Just from a fans point of view of growing the game, the ICC putting games on in America, India Vs Pakistan in New York, Virat is the biggest draw of any player in the world, I’m sure he will be selected." Also read: Virat Kohli likely to be DROPPED to make way for power hitters in India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports Every participating team has to announce the provisional squad by early May. Hence, India's squad is expected to be out during the upcoming IPL 2024 edition. Speaking of Kohli, he is the leading run-getter in T20Is -- with 4,037 runs in 117 matches at a strike rate of 138.15. He is also the highest run-getter in T20 WC history, with 1,141 runs in 27 games at an average of 81.5 and strike rate of 131.3. He wasn't part of India's T20I scheme of things since their 2022 T20 WC semifinal loss, to eventual winners England, but returned to the setup -- after 14 months -- during the Afghanistan home series early this year. At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

‘This can’t be true’: Stuart Broad rubbishes reports of Virat Kohli being dropped for T20 World Cup

<p>Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). If reports by The Telegraph are to be believed, Kohli will have to perform very well and strike at an impressive rate to be considered for India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. At present, it is being widely reported that the former Indian captain isn't a certainty in India's squad and is likely to make way for power hitters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the England Test series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will lead India in the T20 WC. However, he didn't confirm Kohli's participation. In this regard, Shah said, "We will discuss Virat’s role in due course." Rohit and Kohli returned to the T20I setup after 14 months during the Afghanistan series early this year.</p>

<p>It is believed that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee are keen to go ahead with power hitters such as Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Jitesh Sharma, etc. instead of including Kohli (who has a strike rate of 138.15 in T20Is). Moreover, the committee feels the&nbsp;slow pitches in West Indies -- co-hosts along with USA for the T20 WC -- won't suit Kohli's style of play. Thus, a discussion with Kohli is on the cards and his T20I future might well be sealed sooner than later. If he gets dropped, it will be a huge development.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-kaif-lauds-all-format-player-yashasvi-jaiswal-after-england-tests-calls-for-his-odi-debut-699058">Mohammed Kaif lauds 'all-format player' Yashasvi Jaiswal after England Tests, calls for his ODI debut</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, in a recent interaction with News18, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Irfan opined that no Indian team can be complete without Kohli. "No Indian team can be formed without Virat Kohli. How can anyone say that Virat Kohli should not be in India's team for T20 World Cup?&nbsp;You can see whatever the pressure, he performed for India, he always delivered for India," said Irfan.</p>

<p>India's T20 WC squad will be announced in early May, the deadline for all the participating teams, during the IPL 2024 season. At present, all eyes will be on how Kohli performs in the upcoming IPL season.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Virat Kohli has been out of international cricket for quite sometime. He was not part of India's 4-1 home Tests series win over England, due to personal reasons (to welcome his second child), but he will now be seen in IPL 2024, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). If reports by The Telegraph are to be believed, Kohli will have to perform very well and strike at an impressive rate to be considered for India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. At present, it is being widely reported that the former Indian captain isn't a certainty in India's squad and is likely to make way for power hitters. During the England Test series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit Sharma will lead India in the T20 WC. However, he didn't confirm Kohli's participation. In this regard, Shah said, "We will discuss Virat’s role in due course." Rohit and Kohli returned to the T20I setup after 14 months during the Afghanistan series early this year. It is believed that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee are keen to go ahead with power hitters such as Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Jitesh Sharma, etc. instead of including Kohli (who has a strike rate of 138.15 in T20Is). Moreover, the committee feels the slow pitches in West Indies -- co-hosts along with USA for the T20 WC -- won't suit Kohli's style of play. Thus, a discussion with Kohli is on the cards and his T20I future might well be sealed sooner than later. If he gets dropped, it will be a huge development. Also read: Mohammed Kaif lauds 'all-format player' Yashasvi Jaiswal after England Tests, calls for his ODI debut Meanwhile, in a recent interaction with News18, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Irfan opined that no Indian team can be complete without Kohli. "No Indian team can be formed without Virat Kohli. How can anyone say that Virat Kohli should not be in India's team for T20 World Cup? You can see whatever the pressure, he performed for India, he always delivered for India," said Irfan. India's T20 WC squad will be announced in early May, the deadline for all the participating teams, during the IPL 2024 season. At present, all eyes will be on how Kohli performs in the upcoming IPL season.

Virat Kohli likely to be DROPPED to make way for power hitters in India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports

<p>Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 edition, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Faf du Plessis recalled how he hit it off with Virat Kohli at his first session with the franchise ahead of the 2022 season. Notably, the South African joined the Bengaluru-based franchise two years back and replaced Kohli as the RCB captain.</p>

<p>Since his inclusion at RCB, Du Plessis and Kohli have forged a superb opening pair. The two have also worked well as leaders of the group. Recently, Du Plessis shared his relationship with Kohli and said in a Star Sports interview, "There are quite a few things that Virat and I are very similar, very alike in the way we see the game or think about the game, but also in how we look at ourselves and how we want to be."</p>

<p>"Obviously athletic, train hard, be fit, eat well. So we look at a holistic approach to being a professional sportsman and I think that's why we connected so well in my first season at RCB, we were very similar."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-rishabh-pant-should-not-rush-his-comeback-former-csk-stars-advice-to-dc-captain-697558">IPL 2024: Rishabh Pant should not rush his comeback - Former CSK star's advice to DC captain</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "And yes he's amazing, he trains hard, he's very fit, and I feel like in today's age of sport you have to be like that if you're looking for longevity so he will be a great example for the younger generation that maybe feel like they can just come in and rely on their talent. Yes they are good enough in terms of talent but in terms of longevity in your body to make sure you can play for as long as possible, fitness will definitely play a role."</p>

<p>Kohli is currently out of international action and missed the entire home Tests versus England due to personal reasons. In mid-February, the superstar cricketer got blessed with a second child and is currently with wife Anushka Sharma and close family members. He is expected to join RCB squad soon for the upcoming IPL season.</p>

<p>RCB take on defending champions MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2024 opener on March 22 in Chennai.</p>


Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 edition, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Faf du Plessis recalled how he hit it off with Virat Kohli at his first session with the franchise ahead of the 2022 season.

Ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 edition, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Faf du Plessis recalled how he hit it off with Virat Kohli at his first session with the franchise ahead of the 2022 season. Notably, the South African joined the Bengaluru-based franchise two years back and replaced Kohli as the RCB captain. Since his inclusion at RCB, Du Plessis and Kohli have forged a superb opening pair. The two have also worked well as leaders of the group. Recently, Du Plessis shared his relationship with Kohli and said in a Star Sports interview, "There are quite a few things that Virat and I are very similar, very alike in the way we see the game or think about the game, but also in how we look at ourselves and how we want to be." "Obviously athletic, train hard, be fit, eat well. So we look at a holistic approach to being a professional sportsman and I think that's why we connected so well in my first season at RCB, we were very similar." Also read: IPL 2024: Rishabh Pant should not rush his comeback - Former CSK star's advice to DC captain He added, "And yes he's amazing, he trains hard, he's very fit, and I feel like in today's age of sport you have to be like that if you're looking for longevity so he will be a great example for the younger generation that maybe feel like they can just come in and rely on their talent. Yes they are good enough in terms of talent but in terms of longevity in your body to make sure you can play for as long as possible, fitness will definitely play a role." Kohli is currently out of international action and missed the entire home Tests versus England due to personal reasons. In mid-February, the superstar cricketer got blessed with a second child and is currently with wife Anushka Sharma and close family members. He is expected to join RCB squad soon for the upcoming IPL season. RCB take on defending champions MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2024 opener on March 22 in Chennai.

IPL 2024: RCB captain Faf du Plessis recalls how he connected instantly with Virat Kohli

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India dominated proceedings on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test versus England at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday (March 7). Being asked to bowl first, the home side rode on Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 79 and R Ashwin's 4 for 51 to dismiss the English side for a below-par 218. In reply, India ended the day's play at 135 for 1 with skipper Rohit unbeaten on 52. With his second half-century of the series, Rohit also became the tenth Indian skipper to enter the 1,000-run club in Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, Rohit joined an elite list comprising his predecessor Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and the likes. <strong>Here is the list:</strong></p>

<p>Virat Kohli - 5,864 runs<br />
MS Dhoni - 3,454 runs<br />
Sunil Gavaskar - 3,449 runs<br />
Mohammed Azharuddin - 2,856 runs<br />
Sourav Ganguly - 2,561 runs<br />
MAK Pataudi - 2,424 runs<br />
Sachin Tendulkar - 2,054 runs<br />
Rahul Dravid - 1,736 runs<br />
Kapil Dev - 1,364 runs<br />
<strong>Rohit Sharma - 1,039 runs</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-rohit-sharma-becomes-1st-ever-to-achieve-all-format-catching-feat-on-day-1-of-dharamsala-test-697642">IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma becomes 1st-ever to achieve all-format catching feat on Day 1 of Dharamsala Test</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, Rohit is now only the third Indian captain to score 1k-plus runs in all formats as captain. He joined Dhoni and Kohli in this elite list:</p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>Captains</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Tests</strong></td>
			<td><strong>ODIs</strong></td>
			<td><strong>T20Is</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>MS Dhoni</td>
			<td>3,454</td>
			<td>6,641</td>
			<td>1,112</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>5,864</td>
			<td>5,449</td>
			<td>1,570</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rohit Sharma</td>
			<td>1,039*</td>
			<td>2047*</td>
			<td>1,648*</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>Rohit will look to make the most of his start and take India beyond England's 218 on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test at the picturesque stadium in Dharamsala on Friday (March 8). The hosts will aim for a big lead to dictate terms over Ben Stokes-led England. The five Tests have already been sealed with India taking an unassailable 3-1 lead following their five-wicket win in the previous game in Ranchi. Rohit &amp; Co., however, will aim for a 4-1 scoreline to bolster their chances of playing the final of the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India dominated proceedings on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test versus England at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday (March 7). Being asked to bowl first, the home side rode on Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 79 and R Ashwin's 4 for 51 to dismiss the English side for a below-par 218.

Rohit Sharma-led India dominated proceedings on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test versus England at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday (March 7). Being asked to bowl first, the home side rode on Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 79 and R Ashwin's 4 for 51 to dismiss the English side for a below-par 218. In reply, India ended the day's play at 135 for 1 with skipper Rohit unbeaten on 52. With his second half-century of the series, Rohit also became the tenth Indian skipper to enter the 1,000-run club in Tests. Thus, Rohit joined an elite list comprising his predecessor Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and the likes. Here is the list: Virat Kohli - 5,864 runs MS Dhoni - 3,454 runs Sunil Gavaskar - 3,449 runs Mohammed Azharuddin - 2,856 runs Sourav Ganguly - 2,561 runs MAK Pataudi - 2,424 runs Sachin Tendulkar - 2,054 runs Rahul Dravid - 1,736 runs Kapil Dev - 1,364 runs Rohit Sharma - 1,039 runs Also read: IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma becomes 1st-ever to achieve all-format catching feat on Day 1 of Dharamsala Test In addition, Rohit is now only the third Indian captain to score 1k-plus runs in all formats as captain. He joined Dhoni and Kohli in this elite list: Captains Tests ODIs T20Is MS Dhoni 3,454 6,641 1,112 Virat Kohli 5,864 5,449 1,570 Rohit Sharma 1,039* 2047* 1,648* Rohit will look to make the most of his start and take India beyond England's 218 on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test at the picturesque stadium in Dharamsala on Friday (March 8). The hosts will aim for a big lead to dictate terms over Ben Stokes-led England. The five Tests have already been sealed with India taking an unassailable 3-1 lead following their five-wicket win in the previous game in Ranchi. Rohit & Co., however, will aim for a 4-1 scoreline to bolster their chances of playing the final of the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma joins Kohli, Dhoni to become 10th Indian captain to score 1k runs in Tests

<p>Veteran England speedster James Anderson has termed Virat Kohli’s absence from the ongoing Test series against England as “shameful” after the latter decided to miss all five matches. Virat, who is on paternity leave after becoming a father for the second time was supposed to participate in the latter stage of the series but opted to stay away. In Virat’s absence, India won the five-match series 3-1 with still a Test match to go in Dharamsala.</p>

<h2><strong>Anderson comments on Virat</strong></h2>

<p>“Yeah, you always want to play against the best players. And it’s been a shame that he’s not been a part of the series. We have had some great battles over the years. But not just for me, I think as a team you want to play against the best in the world and he certainly is that” Anderson said on JioCinema.</p>

<p>“I guess English fans will be thankful he’s not playing because he’s such a quality player. But from our point of view, you want to test yourself, you want to come up against the best and he’s been someone who I’ve found really challenging to bowl at over the years and it’s a shame he’s not been playing,” Anderson added.</p>

<p>Interestingly, with James Anderson now 41, it is highly unlikely that the speedster and&nbsp;Virat could meet again in a competitive match.</p>

<p>Virat, poised to play against England against whom he has 1,991 Test runs, requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to stay away from cricket and skipped the important series. Virat needed 52 more runs to make England his statistically favourite Test-playing nation in terms of runs having only scored more Test runs against Australia (2042 runs). However,&nbsp;he now has to wait for another series to achieve the feat.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-world-cup-winner-and-mp-gautam-gambhir-requests-ruling-bjp-for-release-from-political-duties-695777">Former World Cup winner and MP Gautam Gambhir requests ruling BJP for release from political duties</a></p>

<p>India lost the Hyderabad Test and were down 0-1 before launching a fightback in the absence of Virat. Rohit Sharma’s men won the Vizag, Rajkot and Ranchi Tests on a trot to hand&nbsp;Ben Stokes&nbsp;his first series defeat as the captain of the national side. Since he took over the reins of the side in June 2022, England had not lost a series before India came good at them.</p>

<p>The two sides will next meet on Thursday (Mar 7) in the final Test match in Dharamsala.&nbsp;India will bring&nbsp;back Jasprit Bumrah for the match, while KL Rahul has been&nbsp;ruled out. In his absence, Dhruv Jurel, Player of the Match in Ranchi, will continue to don the gloves for Team India.</p>


Veteran England speedster James Anderson has termed Virat Kohli’s absence from the ongoing Test series against England as “shameful” after the latter decided to miss all five matches.

Veteran England speedster James Anderson has termed Virat Kohli’s absence from the ongoing Test series against England as “shameful” after the latter decided to miss all five matches. Virat, who is on paternity leave after becoming a father for the second time was supposed to participate in the latter stage of the series but opted to stay away. In Virat’s absence, India won the five-match series 3-1 with still a Test match to go in Dharamsala. Anderson comments on Virat “Yeah, you always want to play against the best players. And it’s been a shame that he’s not been a part of the series. We have had some great battles over the years. But not just for me, I think as a team you want to play against the best in the world and he certainly is that” Anderson said on JioCinema. “I guess English fans will be thankful he’s not playing because he’s such a quality player. But from our point of view, you want to test yourself, you want to come up against the best and he’s been someone who I’ve found really challenging to bowl at over the years and it’s a shame he’s not been playing,” Anderson added. Interestingly, with James Anderson now 41, it is highly unlikely that the speedster and Virat could meet again in a competitive match. Virat, poised to play against England against whom he has 1,991 Test runs, requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to stay away from cricket and skipped the important series. Virat needed 52 more runs to make England his statistically favourite Test-playing nation in terms of runs having only scored more Test runs against Australia (2042 runs). However, he now has to wait for another series to achieve the feat. ALSO READ | Former World Cup winner and MP Gautam Gambhir requests ruling BJP for release from political duties India lost the Hyderabad Test and were down 0-1 before launching a fightback in the absence of Virat. Rohit Sharma’s men won the Vizag, Rajkot and Ranchi Tests on a trot to hand Ben Stokes his first series defeat as the captain of the national side. Since he took over the reins of the side in June 2022, England had not lost a series before India came good at them. The two sides will next meet on Thursday (Mar 7) in the final Test match in Dharamsala. India will bring back Jasprit Bumrah for the match, while KL Rahul has been ruled out. In his absence, Dhruv Jurel, Player of the Match in Ranchi, will continue to don the gloves for Team India.

IND vs ENG: James Anderson terms Virat Kohli's absence from Test series a 'shame'

<p>German football giants Bayern Munich have made a bold comparison of two of the best sports personalities in a sensational tweet on their X handle on Tuesday (Feb 27). Bayern, while replying to a trending tweet on X, compared Indian great Virat Kohli to Germany football team captain Manuel Neuer in a cross-sport. While the comparison is trending on the internet, fans were in awe of Bayern seeing the two greats in the same frame.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="de">⚽ Manuel Neuer 🐐<br />
🏏 Virat Kohli 🐐 <a href="https://t.co/5VTygpZioC">https://t.co/5VTygpZioC</a></p>
— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/1762487161578828060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Bayern compare&nbsp;Virat, Neuer</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, the German giants posted on their X handle with names of both Virat and Neuer along with a goat emoji indicating their status as greats of the game. Interestingly, both Neuer and Virat have common comparisons including being members of World Cup-winning squads and playing in finals of almost all international tournaments. Their stature at club and franchise level also remains intact with Neuer now in his 13th season with the club while Virat will enter his 17th season with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).</p>

<p>Interestingly at the franchise level, Neuer has enjoyed more success winning the Champions League twice while also winning the German Bundesliga on 11 occasions. Virat’s luck hasn’t been great and has been runner-up in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on three occasions and twice in the now-abolished Champions League.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-not-sunil-gavaskar-opines-on-rishabh-pants-awaited-comeback-during-ipl-2024-694666">'Let's not...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on Rishabh Pant's awaited comeback during IPL 2024</a></p>

<p>While Bayern’s tweet made plenty of headlines, in the recent weeks they have been in headlines for all the wrong reasons. They recently announced the departure of manager Thomas Tuchel after having a poor season compared to the recent years where they have won the Bundesliga. They are eight points behind league leaders Bayer Leverkusen in the German league while getting eliminated in the DFB Pokal early.</p>

<p>Virat on the other hand has been away from cricket after playing in the two-match Test series against South Africa in January. He recently became a father for the second time and skipped the entire Test series against England. Despite his absence, India won the Test series 3-1 having pocketed the wins in Vizag, Rajkot and Ranchi. He is expected to be back in action during the IPL 2024 when he represents RCB. In his 16 seasons with the South Indian giants, he is yet to win the IPL and will look to find the missing piece in the puzzle.</p>


German football giants Bayern Munich have made a bold comparison of two of the best sports personalities in a sensational tweet on their X handle on Tuesday (Feb 27).

German football giants Bayern Munich have made a bold comparison of two of the best sports personalities in a sensational tweet on their X handle on Tuesday (Feb 27). Bayern, while replying to a trending tweet on X, compared Indian great Virat Kohli to Germany football team captain Manuel Neuer in a cross-sport. While the comparison is trending on the internet, fans were in awe of Bayern seeing the two greats in the same frame. ⚽ Manuel Neuer 🐐 🏏 Virat Kohli 🐐 https://t.co/5VTygpZioC — FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) February 27, 2024 × Bayern compare Virat, Neuer On Tuesday, the German giants posted on their X handle with names of both Virat and Neuer along with a goat emoji indicating their status as greats of the game. Interestingly, both Neuer and Virat have common comparisons including being members of World Cup-winning squads and playing in finals of almost all international tournaments. Their stature at club and franchise level also remains intact with Neuer now in his 13th season with the club while Virat will enter his 17th season with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Interestingly at the franchise level, Neuer has enjoyed more success winning the Champions League twice while also winning the German Bundesliga on 11 occasions. Virat’s luck hasn’t been great and has been runner-up in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on three occasions and twice in the now-abolished Champions League. ALSO READ | 'Let's not...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on Rishabh Pant's awaited comeback during IPL 2024 While Bayern’s tweet made plenty of headlines, in the recent weeks they have been in headlines for all the wrong reasons. They recently announced the departure of manager Thomas Tuchel after having a poor season compared to the recent years where they have won the Bundesliga. They are eight points behind league leaders Bayer Leverkusen in the German league while getting eliminated in the DFB Pokal early. Virat on the other hand has been away from cricket after playing in the two-match Test series against South Africa in January. He recently became a father for the second time and skipped the entire Test series against England. Despite his absence, India won the Test series 3-1 having pocketed the wins in Vizag, Rajkot and Ranchi. He is expected to be back in action during the IPL 2024 when he represents RCB. In his 16 seasons with the South Indian giants, he is yet to win the IPL and will look to find the missing piece in the puzzle.

German football giants Bayern Munich pick Virat Kohli as cross-sport equivalent of legendary Manuel Neuer

<p>India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5. An unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand between Shubman Gill (52*) and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) propelled India to a stunning win, also claiming the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare.</p>

<p>This became India's 17th successive Test series win&nbsp;on home soil (most by any). Their last series loss at home came versus Alastair Cook-led England in 2012/13. Since then, they have beaten the likes of Australia, England, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and New Zealand (with Pakistan being the only non-visiting side due to strained political relations between the two nations).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Often, we tend to overlook the Test series wins at home. While there is no doubt that an away series win is very satisfying, people often underplay the importance of a series win in home conditions. Indian captain Rohit Sharma underlined the importance of a home series win&nbsp;in the post-match presser in Ranchi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly."</p>

<p>While home series wins deserve to be celebrated as well, this triumph over England -- a Test team who have been entertaining one and all with their aggressive style of play&nbsp;-- needs to be&nbsp;rated highly. The home side were challenged by England on many occasions and got a 3-1 lead facing many hindrances.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dhruv-jurel-took-the-pressure-off-me-shubman-gill-on-unbeaten-stand-in-tense-ranchi-chase-694027">IND vs ENG: 'Dhruv Jurel took the pressure off me' - Shubman Gill on unbeaten stand in tense Ranchi chase</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>EXPLAINED: Why the England Test series win should be rated highly</strong></h2>

<p>India entered the series without star batter Virat Kohli, who was out for personal reasons (having&nbsp;stepped aside for the birth of his second child). The home team still dominated the first half of the series opener in Hyderabad before an Ollie Pope special blew them away. Despite a whopping 190-run lead, India lost the first Test after Pope's 196 revived England's chances. Chasing 231, India folded for 202, lost&nbsp;by 28 runs and conceded a 1-0 lead.</p>

<p>The troubles increased from the second Test. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja got injured and were sidelined (leading to&nbsp;Rajat Patidar's debut). Moreover, captain Rohit was looking timid with the bat&nbsp;-- grappling with the pressure of missing his key batters. While his struggles continued in Visakhapatnam as well, venue for the second encounter,&nbsp;a young Yashasvi Jaiswal -- who missed out on a ton in the opening game -- came as India's saviour and slammed a majestic 209 in the first innings. After India made 396, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant bowling spell, with reverse swing on offer, to hand his side a big 143-run lead. In the second essay, 24-year-old Shubman Gill rose to the occasion&nbsp;with an impressive 104, as India setup a 399-run target and won by 106 runs.</p>

<p>The third Test, in Rajkot, saw the return of local boy Jadeja, however, Rahul still remained unfit.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer lost his place&nbsp;after a flurry of low scores. Thus, India brought in two debutants in the form of Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter&nbsp;Jurel.&nbsp;Opting to bat first, the hosts were 33-3 when captain Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) stitched an invaluable 204-run fourth-wicket stand to take the side out of troubled waters. Still, India were 237-4 with inexperienced batters to follow. Nonetheless, both Sarfaraz (62) and Jurel (46) showed enough grit and determination to take India to 445. Senior pros R Ashwin (37) and Bumrah (26) also played a helping hand.</p>

<p>Ben Duckett (153) led England's response and the visitors were marching towards India's 445, being 182-2 in 30 overs. At 224-2, England still looked confident enough to go past India's score but Mohammed Siraj stepped up this time around.&nbsp;His 4 for 84 led to a collapse with Ben Stokes &amp; Co. folding up for 319.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a 126-run lead, India took the game away&nbsp;with their&nbsp;young brigade once again coming to the party. Jaiswal (214*), Gill (91) and Sarfaraz (68 not out) propelled the team's lead to a daunting 556. Chasing 557, the English side managed a paltry 122 with Jadeja shining with 5 for 41.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the&nbsp;fourth Test, the Indian team were much more confident and took the punt to rest ace pacer Bumrah. They included uncapped Bengal pacer Akash Deep in&nbsp;the playing XI in Ranchi. With England off to a flier, after opting to bat first, it was the 27-year-old debutant&nbsp;who struck thrice in one over to reduce England to 57 for 3. Later,&nbsp;Joe Root's 122* enabled England to 353. In reply, India were on the mat; reeling at 177-7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the 23-year-old Jurel (90) became India's hero in the crisis situation. He stitched a priceless 76-run eighth-wicket stand with Kuldeep Yadav (28). He aced the art of batting with the tail to take the team closer to England's 353. As a result, India posted 307 and handed only a slender 46-run lead, which could have easily been over 100. England then crumbled to Ashwin-Kuldeep's spin web to setup only a 192-run target. In the run-chase, India were made to toil hard for every run but Jurel-Gill ensured they got past the finish line.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurel-gill-and-spinners-help-india-beat-england-in-4th-test-in-ranchi-hosts-clinch-five-match-series-693960">Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series</a></strong></p>

<p>India came from behind to win the Test series with a game to spare, mainly due&nbsp;to their young brigade (with the seniors also raising their game). Heaping praise on the&nbsp;youngsters, Rohit said in the post-match PC, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important&nbsp;to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format."</p>

<p>Thus, India's Test series triumph deserves accolades for the way the youngsters have stepped up in the absence of the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Bumrah, etc. The inexperienced players have embraced every challenge presented before Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Let us be honest. Had this series win come abroad, especially in SENA countries, it&nbsp;would have rightly been hailed by all. There definitely is nothing wrong in celebrating away wins, but home wins deserve appreciation as well. Well, this one certainly does and needs to be rated highly by the countrymen.</p>


India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5.

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5. An unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand between Shubman Gill (52*) and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) propelled India to a stunning win, also claiming the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare. This became India's 17th successive Test series win on home soil (most by any). Their last series loss at home came versus Alastair Cook-led England in 2012/13. Since then, they have beaten the likes of Australia, England, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and New Zealand (with Pakistan being the only non-visiting side due to strained political relations between the two nations). Often, we tend to overlook the Test series wins at home. While there is no doubt that an away series win is very satisfying, people often underplay the importance of a series win in home conditions. Indian captain Rohit Sharma underlined the importance of a home series win in the post-match presser in Ranchi. Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly." While home series wins deserve to be celebrated as well, this triumph over England -- a Test team who have been entertaining one and all with their aggressive style of play -- needs to be rated highly. The home side were challenged by England on many occasions and got a 3-1 lead facing many hindrances. Also read: IND vs ENG: 'Dhruv Jurel took the pressure off me' - Shubman Gill on unbeaten stand in tense Ranchi chase EXPLAINED: Why the England Test series win should be rated highly India entered the series without star batter Virat Kohli, who was out for personal reasons (having stepped aside for the birth of his second child). The home team still dominated the first half of the series opener in Hyderabad before an Ollie Pope special blew them away. Despite a whopping 190-run lead, India lost the first Test after Pope's 196 revived England's chances. Chasing 231, India folded for 202, lost by 28 runs and conceded a 1-0 lead. The troubles increased from the second Test. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja got injured and were sidelined (leading to Rajat Patidar's debut). Moreover, captain Rohit was looking timid with the bat -- grappling with the pressure of missing his key batters. While his struggles continued in Visakhapatnam as well, venue for the second encounter, a young Yashasvi Jaiswal -- who missed out on a ton in the opening game -- came as India's saviour and slammed a majestic 209 in the first innings. After India made 396, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant bowling spell, with reverse swing on offer, to hand his side a big 143-run lead. In the second essay, 24-year-old Shubman Gill rose to the occasion with an impressive 104, as India setup a 399-run target and won by 106 runs. The third Test, in Rajkot, saw the return of local boy Jadeja, however, Rahul still remained unfit. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer lost his place after a flurry of low scores. Thus, India brought in two debutants in the form of Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter Jurel. Opting to bat first, the hosts were 33-3 when captain Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) stitched an invaluable 204-run fourth-wicket stand to take the side out of troubled waters. Still, India were 237-4 with inexperienced batters to follow. Nonetheless, both Sarfaraz (62) and Jurel (46) showed enough grit and determination to take India to 445. Senior pros R Ashwin (37) and Bumrah (26) also played a helping hand. Ben Duckett (153) led England's response and the visitors were marching towards India's 445, being 182-2 in 30 overs. At 224-2, England still looked confident enough to go past India's score but Mohammed Siraj stepped up this time around. His 4 for 84 led to a collapse with Ben Stokes & Co. folding up for 319. With a 126-run lead, India took the game away with their young brigade once again coming to the party. Jaiswal (214*), Gill (91) and Sarfaraz (68 not out) propelled the team's lead to a daunting 556. Chasing 557, the English side managed a paltry 122 with Jadeja shining with 5 for 41. Prior to the fourth Test, the Indian team were much more confident and took the punt to rest ace pacer Bumrah. They included uncapped Bengal pacer Akash Deep in the playing XI in Ranchi. With England off to a flier, after opting to bat first, it was the 27-year-old debutant who struck thrice in one over to reduce England to 57 for 3. Later, Joe Root's 122* enabled England to 353. In reply, India were on the mat; reeling at 177-7. Nonetheless, the 23-year-old Jurel (90) became India's hero in the crisis situation. He stitched a priceless 76-run eighth-wicket stand with Kuldeep Yadav (28). He aced the art of batting with the tail to take the team closer to England's 353. As a result, India posted 307 and handed only a slender 46-run lead, which could have easily been over 100. England then crumbled to Ashwin-Kuldeep's spin web to setup only a 192-run target. In the run-chase, India were made to toil hard for every run but Jurel-Gill ensured they got past the finish line. Also read: Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series India came from behind to win the Test series with a game to spare, mainly due to their young brigade (with the seniors also raising their game). Heaping praise on the youngsters, Rohit said in the post-match PC, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format." Thus, India's Test series triumph deserves accolades for the way the youngsters have stepped up in the absence of the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Bumrah, etc. The inexperienced players have embraced every challenge presented before Team India. Let us be honest. Had this series win come abroad, especially in SENA countries, it would have rightly been hailed by all. There definitely is nothing wrong in celebrating away wins, but home wins deserve appreciation as well. Well, this one certainly does and needs to be rated highly by the countrymen.

Explained: Why India’s Test series triumph over England should be rated highly

<p>India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to rewrite record books with his sensational form in the ongoing five-Test series against England. Jaiswal although got out after scoring 37 on day 4 (Feb 26) of the Ranchi Test but equalled Virat Kohli's record for most runs in a Test series for India against England. Jaiswal now has 655 runs in four Tests, the same as Kohli had scored during England's tour of India in 2016/17.</p>

<p>Jaiswal, who opens alongside skipper Rohit Sharma, has also hit two double-hundreds in the series to go with his two fifties in eight innings. He has amassed these runs at a stunning average of 93 while also hitting 23 sixes. Thanks to the southpaw's exploits, India are currently leading 3-1 in the five-Test series.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurel-gill-and-spinners-help-india-beat-england-in-4th-test-in-ranchi-hosts-clinch-five-match-series-693960">Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi, hosts clinch five-match series</a></p>

<p>With one more Test to follow after the Ranchi Test, Jaiswal is all but certain to go past Kohli's record of most runs in a Test series for India against England. The batter will also have a shot at breaking Graham Gooch's record of 752 runs - the most for any batter in an India-England Test series.</p>

<p>If Jaiswal scores 45 runs more and reaches the 700-run mark, he'll become the first Indian batter to reach the milestone in India-England Tests. The batter will also have former skipper Sunil Gavaskar's all-time record of most runs by an Indian in a Test series - 774 against West Indies in 1970/71 - in sight during the last Test in Dharamsala, starting&nbsp;March 7.</p>

<p>Jaiswal made his debut for India in Tests last year during the tour of the West Indies and scored 171 runs in his debut innings. The batter&nbsp;managed 266 runs in three innings across two matches before a lean series in South Africa where he scored just 50 runs in two matches.</p>


India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to rewrite record books with his sensational form in the ongoing five-Test series against England. Jaiswal although got out after scoring 37 on day 4 (Feb 26) of the Ranchi Test but equalled Virat Kohli's record for most runs in a Test series for India against England.

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal continues to rewrite record books with his sensational form in the ongoing five-Test series against England. Jaiswal although got out after scoring 37 on day 4 (Feb 26) of the Ranchi Test but equalled Virat Kohli's record for most runs in a Test series for India against England. Jaiswal now has 655 runs in four Tests, the same as Kohli had scored during England's tour of India in 2016/17. Jaiswal, who opens alongside skipper Rohit Sharma, has also hit two double-hundreds in the series to go with his two fifties in eight innings. He has amassed these runs at a stunning average of 93 while also hitting 23 sixes. Thanks to the southpaw's exploits, India are currently leading 3-1 in the five-Test series. Also Read: Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi, hosts clinch five-match series With one more Test to follow after the Ranchi Test, Jaiswal is all but certain to go past Kohli's record of most runs in a Test series for India against England. The batter will also have a shot at breaking Graham Gooch's record of 752 runs - the most for any batter in an India-England Test series. If Jaiswal scores 45 runs more and reaches the 700-run mark, he'll become the first Indian batter to reach the milestone in India-England Tests. The batter will also have former skipper Sunil Gavaskar's all-time record of most runs by an Indian in a Test series - 774 against West Indies in 1970/71 - in sight during the last Test in Dharamsala, starting March 7. Jaiswal made his debut for India in Tests last year during the tour of the West Indies and scored 171 runs in his debut innings. The batter managed 266 runs in three innings across two matches before a lean series in South Africa where he scored just 50 runs in two matches.

IND vs ENG: Yashasvi Jaiswal equals Virat Kohli's record of most runs for India vs England in a Test series

<p>Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi. India were trailing by 134 runs at the end of day's play with Dhruv Jurel (30) and Kuldeep Yadav (17) on the crease as the hosts finished the day on 219/7.</p>

<p>"With the experience &amp; world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor," Broad asked in a post on social media platform X.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">With the experience &amp; world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor ⚓️</p>
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartBroad8/status/1761334443388678426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Skipper Rohit Sharma was first Indian wicket to fall off James Anderson as India headed to lunch at 34/1 after bowling England out for 353 in the first innings on Saturday. Shubman Gill (38) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (73) then added 82 runs for the second wicket to steady the ship before Bashir trapped Gill LBW. Rajat Patidar and Ravindra Jadeja were next to fall, both to Bashir, as India lost three wickets in the second session for less than 100 runs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/psl-2024-pakistan-batter-babar-azam-loses-cool-mimics-bottle-throw-after-being-trolled-by-fans-wacth-693485">PSL 2024: Pakistan batter Babar Azam loses cool, mimics 'bottle throw' after being trolled by fans&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Starting the last session at 131/4, Jaiswal's big wicket was also claimed by Bashir as India became five down at just 161. Tom Hartley then took the wickets of Sarfaraz Khan and Ravi Ashwin to leave the hosts reeling at 177/7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jurel and spinner Kuldeep then added unbeaten 42 runs for the eighth wicket to frustrate England who were looking set to get a big lead after the Hatley's twin wickets.</p>

<p>Notably, Kohli has taken leave of absence from the series due to personal reasons (his second child's birth with wife Anushka Sharma) and it has weakened India's middle order.</p>


Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi. India were trailing by 134 runs at the end of day's play with Dhruv Jurel (30) and Kuldeep Yadav (17) on the crease as the hosts finished the day on 219/7. "With the experience & world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor," Broad asked in a post on social media platform X. With the experience & world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor ⚓️ — Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) February 24, 2024 × Skipper Rohit Sharma was first Indian wicket to fall off James Anderson as India headed to lunch at 34/1 after bowling England out for 353 in the first innings on Saturday. Shubman Gill (38) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (73) then added 82 runs for the second wicket to steady the ship before Bashir trapped Gill LBW. Rajat Patidar and Ravindra Jadeja were next to fall, both to Bashir, as India lost three wickets in the second session for less than 100 runs. Also Watch: PSL 2024: Pakistan batter Babar Azam loses cool, mimics 'bottle throw' after being trolled by fans Starting the last session at 131/4, Jaiswal's big wicket was also claimed by Bashir as India became five down at just 161. Tom Hartley then took the wickets of Sarfaraz Khan and Ravi Ashwin to leave the hosts reeling at 177/7. Jurel and spinner Kuldeep then added unbeaten 42 runs for the eighth wicket to frustrate England who were looking set to get a big lead after the Hatley's twin wickets. Notably, Kohli has taken leave of absence from the series due to personal reasons (his second child's birth with wife Anushka Sharma) and it has weakened India's middle order.

IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Stuart Broad questions non-selection of Cheteshwar Pujara after India’s batting failure

Babar Azam became the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, by innings, during the ongoing PSL 2024 edition on Wednesday (Feb 21). Here is a list of batters – including Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle -- who are the quickest to reach the 10k-run club in T20s, in terms of innings.

Batters Quickest to 10k T20 runs (by innings)

<p>Pakistan batter Babar Azam has created by becoming the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, going past former West Indies batter Chris Gayle and India's Virat Kohli in the list. Babar achieved the feat in ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 on Wednesday (Feb 21) while playing for Peshawar Zalmi against Karachi Kings in Lahore. Babar has reached the 10K-run mark in his 271st innings while Gayle had done so in 285th innings and Kohli in 299th.</p>

<p>Babar scored 72 off 51 balls during the match as his team set a target of 154 for Kings to chase. Karachi's Kieron Pollard led the way for his team with an unbeaten 21-ball 49 as Kings won the match by seven wickets. Babar is in prime form this season, scoring two fifties in two games and leads the run chart with 140 runs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-aus-1st-t20i-tim-davids-four-pulls-off-last-ball-heist-for-australia-in-pursuit-of-216-692314">NZ vs Aus, 1st T20I: Mitchell Marsh, Tim David seal last-ball win for Australia in pursuit of 216</a></p>

<p>Babar scored 68 runs in the first match this season and reached the 3,000 runs in the PSL - the first player to do so in the league.</p>

<p>Babar now has 3,075 runs in PSL at an average of 45 and a strike rate of 125. Fakhar Zaman is distant second with 2,387 runs at a strike rate of 142. The next three batters in the list are veteran Shoaib Malik with 2,164 runs, Mohammad Rizwan with 2,050 runs and Kamran Akmal with 1,972 runs.</p>

<p>On the day Babar reached 3K-run mark, that is, February 18, Rizwan, who plays for Multan Sultans, also became the fourth batter in the PSL history to reach 2,000 runs. Rizwan reached the milestone in 61 innings.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Mohammed Hafeez, who was recently sacked as Men in Green's director of cricket, has slammed the national side for poor fitness standards. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-mickey-arthur-put-fitness-in-backseat-pakistans-former-director-of-cricket-mohammad-hafeez-692308">Hafeez ripped apart Pakistan's fitness culture</a> and blamed former captain Babar Azam and ex-coach Mickey Arthur.</p>


Pakistan batter Babar Azam has created by becoming the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, going past former West Indies batter Chris Gayle and India's Virat Kohli in the list.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam has created by becoming the fastest to reach 10,000 T20 runs, going past former West Indies batter Chris Gayle and India's Virat Kohli in the list. Babar achieved the feat in ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 on Wednesday (Feb 21) while playing for Peshawar Zalmi against Karachi Kings in Lahore. Babar has reached the 10K-run mark in his 271st innings while Gayle had done so in 285th innings and Kohli in 299th. Babar scored 72 off 51 balls during the match as his team set a target of 154 for Kings to chase. Karachi's Kieron Pollard led the way for his team with an unbeaten 21-ball 49 as Kings won the match by seven wickets. Babar is in prime form this season, scoring two fifties in two games and leads the run chart with 140 runs. Also Read: NZ vs Aus, 1st T20I: Mitchell Marsh, Tim David seal last-ball win for Australia in pursuit of 216 Babar scored 68 runs in the first match this season and reached the 3,000 runs in the PSL - the first player to do so in the league. Babar now has 3,075 runs in PSL at an average of 45 and a strike rate of 125. Fakhar Zaman is distant second with 2,387 runs at a strike rate of 142. The next three batters in the list are veteran Shoaib Malik with 2,164 runs, Mohammad Rizwan with 2,050 runs and Kamran Akmal with 1,972 runs. On the day Babar reached 3K-run mark, that is, February 18, Rizwan, who plays for Multan Sultans, also became the fourth batter in the PSL history to reach 2,000 runs. Rizwan reached the milestone in 61 innings. Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Mohammed Hafeez, who was recently sacked as Men in Green's director of cricket, has slammed the national side for poor fitness standards. Hafeez ripped apart Pakistan's fitness culture and blamed former captain Babar Azam and ex-coach Mickey Arthur.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam becomes fastest to score 10,000 T20 runs, goes past Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli

<p><strong>Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy Akaay Meaning:&nbsp;</strong>Star couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have announced the arrival of their second child — a baby boy. Keeping with the trend, the celebrity couple chose a rather unique name for their bundle of joy: 'Akaay'.</p>

<h2><strong>Abundant happiness</strong></h2>

<p>Announcing the good news on Instagram, the couple wrote, "With abundant happiness and our hearts all of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay &amp; Vamika's little brother into this world!"</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-anushka-sharma-and-virat-kohli-announce-the-birth-of-their-son-akaay-692072">Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli announce the birth of their son Akaay</a></strong></p>

<p>"We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love &amp; Gratitude. Virat &amp; Anushka," they added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Akaay'&nbsp;name meaning (Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy)</strong></h2>

<p>As expected, there's a lot of intrigue about the baby's name. The name 'Akaay' as per the internet has different meanings in different languages. Anushka and Virat, or Virushka as they're lovingly called, are yet to announce the origin of the name, but here are some guesses.</p>

<p>Akaay could be derived from the Hindi word 'kaya' or body. In Sanskrit language, the name Akaay means 'immortal' or something that doesn't decay.</p>

<p>It could also be a Turkish-originated name which means "Near a full moon or illuminating light of full moon or full moon".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-ranveer-singh-expecting-first-child-heres-what-we-know-so-far-691969">Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh expecting first child? Here’s what we know so far</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Virushka</strong></h2>

<p>The couple tied the knot back in December 2017 in Italy. They welcomed their first child, a girl, 'Vamika' in January 2011. Vamika, which is also not that common, is another name for the Hindu goddess Durga.</p>

<p>Virat and Anushka were tight-lipped about the second pregnancy. However, it was mistakenly revealed by former South Africa skipper AB de Villiers on his official YouTube channel. He later released another video apologising for his "blunder".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy Akaay Meaning: Star couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have announced the arrival of their second child — a baby boy. Keeping with the trend, the celebrity couple chose a rather unique name for their bundle of joy: 'Akaay'.

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy Akaay Meaning: Star couple Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have announced the arrival of their second child — a baby boy. Keeping with the trend, the celebrity couple chose a rather unique name for their bundle of joy: 'Akaay'. Abundant happiness Announcing the good news on Instagram, the couple wrote, "With abundant happiness and our hearts all of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay & Vamika's little brother into this world!" Also read | Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli announce the birth of their son Akaay "We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love & Gratitude. Virat & Anushka," they added. 'Akaay' name meaning (Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma baby boy) As expected, there's a lot of intrigue about the baby's name. The name 'Akaay' as per the internet has different meanings in different languages. Anushka and Virat, or Virushka as they're lovingly called, are yet to announce the origin of the name, but here are some guesses. Akaay could be derived from the Hindi word 'kaya' or body. In Sanskrit language, the name Akaay means 'immortal' or something that doesn't decay. It could also be a Turkish-originated name which means "Near a full moon or illuminating light of full moon or full moon". Also read | Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh expecting first child? Here’s what we know so far Virushka The couple tied the knot back in December 2017 in Italy. They welcomed their first child, a girl, 'Vamika' in January 2011. Vamika, which is also not that common, is another name for the Hindu goddess Durga. Virat and Anushka were tight-lipped about the second pregnancy. However, it was mistakenly revealed by former South Africa skipper AB de Villiers on his official YouTube channel. He later released another video apologising for his "blunder". (With inputs from agencies)

Decoding Akaay: The meaning of Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli’s newborn son’s name

<p>It is a boy! Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have become parents for the second time. The actress took to her Instagram page to announce the birth of their second child, a baby boy whom they have named Akaay. The couple has a three-year-old daughter Vamika.&nbsp;<br />
The baby arrived 15th of February, the post has revealed.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love. We are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay and Vamika's little brother into this world!<br />
<br />
We seek your blessing and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love and Gratitude Virat and Anushka."</p>

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<p>The couple's second pregnancy was a hush-hush one and they never made a public announcement confirming the news. Anushka mostly kept a low profile, although she was spotted with a baby bump watching World Cup matches in November 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the announcement, Kohli had decided not to be a part of the ongoing Test series against England. He had first taken a leave due to 'personal reasons' from the first two Tests before making himself unavailable for the rest of the three Tests.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week,&nbsp;industrialist Harsh Goenka had&nbsp;dropped a hint regarding arrival of the baby and had revealed that the Anushka would be delivering in London.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Goenka on X had written, "A new baby is to be born in the next few days! Hope the baby takes India to great heights like the greatest cricketing father. Or will it follow the mother and be a film star?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadeInIndia?src=hashtag_click" target="_self">&nbsp;</a>#MadeInIndia&nbsp;#ToBeBornInLondon.”</p>


It is a boy! Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have become parents for the second time. The actress took to her Instagram page to announce the birth of their second child, a baby boy whom they have named Akaay.

It is a boy! Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have become parents for the second time. The actress took to her Instagram page to announce the birth of their second child, a baby boy whom they have named Akaay. The couple has a three-year-old daughter Vamika. The baby arrived 15th of February, the post has revealed. "With abundant happiness and our hearts full of love. We are pleased to inform everyone that on 15th February, we welcomed our baby boy Akaay and Vamika's little brother into this world! We seek your blessing and good wishes in this beautiful time in our lives. We request you to kindly respect our privacy at this time. Love and Gratitude Virat and Anushka." View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × The couple's second pregnancy was a hush-hush one and they never made a public announcement confirming the news. Anushka mostly kept a low profile, although she was spotted with a baby bump watching World Cup matches in November 2023. Ahead of the announcement, Kohli had decided not to be a part of the ongoing Test series against England. He had first taken a leave due to 'personal reasons' from the first two Tests before making himself unavailable for the rest of the three Tests. Earlier this week, industrialist Harsh Goenka had dropped a hint regarding arrival of the baby and had revealed that the Anushka would be delivering in London. Goenka on X had written, "A new baby is to be born in the next few days! Hope the baby takes India to great heights like the greatest cricketing father. Or will it follow the mother and be a film star? #MadeInIndia #ToBeBornInLondon.”

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli announce the birth of their son Akaay

<p>Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United. As PSL 2024 gets underway on Sunday (Feb 17), Islamabad will face defending champions Lahore Qalandars in the opener in Lahore.</p>

<p>Speaking on the Islamabad United podcast, Naseem recalled his T20I debut against India in Dubai, wherein he impressed with his new-ball exploits. Detailing about dealing with the pressure of a crowd favourite India-Pakistan game, Naseem said having played Tests and ODIs earlier helped calm his nerves.</p>

<p>“I have good memories of my T20I debut against India. India versus Pakistan is the most important match when it comes to the crowds and intensity on the field, and that was my debut match. I was naturally a bit nervous since it was my debut. But the good thing for me was that I had played a lot of cricket before; I had played Tests and ODIs, which helped me,” Naseem said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blow-to-new-zealand-as-kyle-jamieson-ruled-for-one-year-due-to-persisting-stress-fracture-in-back-691133">Blow to New Zealand as Kyle Jamieson ruled for one year due to persisting stress fracture in back</a></strong></p>

<p>In that game, Naseem picked two wickets, removing KL Rahul (in his first over) and getting rid of Suryakumar Yadav later. On taking on Virat Kohli in that contest, Naseem revealed he thought Kohli would go boom-boom from the ball one and, therefore, bowled two swinging cutters to the batting great.</p>

<p>“When Virat Kohli came into bat, I thought he would go hard. So, I bowled an in-swinger hoping that it might catch his pad, but he let it go. The next delivery, I bowled an out-swinger that caught the edge, but yeah, the catch got dropped. But it was a good experience because when you make your debut against a big team and under so much pressure, then you get a margin in other matches,” the 21-year-old seamer added.</p>

<h2>Naseem back in action</h2>

<p>After missing out on a major chunk of matches late last year, including the latter half of the 2023 Asia Cup and then the World Cup in India, Shah is raring to go for his new team in the PSL.</p>

<p>Shah was earlier part of the Quetta Gladiators setup and switched teams ahead of the upcoming season.&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United.

Pakistan seamer Naseem Shah has opened up on his first-ever battle with India great Virat Kohli during the 2022 Asia Cup in the UAE. Shah, who recovered from a shoulder injury suffered ahead of the 2023 World Cup, will feature for his new team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) – Islamabad United. As PSL 2024 gets underway on Sunday (Feb 17), Islamabad will face defending champions Lahore Qalandars in the opener in Lahore. Speaking on the Islamabad United podcast, Naseem recalled his T20I debut against India in Dubai, wherein he impressed with his new-ball exploits. Detailing about dealing with the pressure of a crowd favourite India-Pakistan game, Naseem said having played Tests and ODIs earlier helped calm his nerves. “I have good memories of my T20I debut against India. India versus Pakistan is the most important match when it comes to the crowds and intensity on the field, and that was my debut match. I was naturally a bit nervous since it was my debut. But the good thing for me was that I had played a lot of cricket before; I had played Tests and ODIs, which helped me,” Naseem said. ALSO READ: Blow to New Zealand as Kyle Jamieson ruled for one year due to persisting stress fracture in back In that game, Naseem picked two wickets, removing KL Rahul (in his first over) and getting rid of Suryakumar Yadav later. On taking on Virat Kohli in that contest, Naseem revealed he thought Kohli would go boom-boom from the ball one and, therefore, bowled two swinging cutters to the batting great. “When Virat Kohli came into bat, I thought he would go hard. So, I bowled an in-swinger hoping that it might catch his pad, but he let it go. The next delivery, I bowled an out-swinger that caught the edge, but yeah, the catch got dropped. But it was a good experience because when you make your debut against a big team and under so much pressure, then you get a margin in other matches,” the 21-year-old seamer added. Naseem back in action After missing out on a major chunk of matches late last year, including the latter half of the 2023 Asia Cup and then the World Cup in India, Shah is raring to go for his new team in the PSL. Shah was earlier part of the Quetta Gladiators setup and switched teams ahead of the upcoming season.

Naseem Shah opens up on facing Virat Kohli for first time; gears up for PSL opener

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