Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has picked MS Dhoni as India's next head coach. The current head coach Rahul Dravid's tenure is about to end following the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and the USA in June. The official deadline to apply for the top post was May 27. While some big foreign names distanced themselves from taking the top job, it is highly likely that an Indian will take over from Dravid. Reports have indicated that Gautam Gambhir is being looked upon as a strong candidate, however, Kohli's coach has suggested Dhoni's name should he retire from IPL.

Talking on India News' programme CRICIT PREDICTA, Sharma&nbsp;said, "First of all, it will be interesting to see which names apply for this post. I would like that whoever becomes the coach should be an Indian. If Mahendra Singh Dhoni announces retirement, he can prove to be a good option. He (Dhoni) has played a lot of cricket and has won big tournaments."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-wont-repeat-mistakes-from-t20-world-cup-2022-feels-sanjay-manjrekar-726301">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma wont repeat mistakes from T20 World Cup 2022, feels Sanjay Manjrekar</a> 
 
Sharma added, "Dhoni will have more respect in the dressing room and he has played this format for a long time. Being able to plan for the team and manage it properly, is most needed in the team because when Dhoni became the captain, there were big players in that team like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Harbhajan Singh, Anil Kumble, Gautam Gambhir, and Yuvraj Singh were present. Despite this, Dhoni handled the team brilliantly."

Dhoni was last seen on the cricket field during the just-concluded IPL 2024. Dhoni-starrer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowed out of the ten-team competition in the group stage, ending at the fifth position and narrowly missing out on the playoffs spot. While the legendary Indian cricketer remains mum on his IPL future, many believe he has played his last IPL season and will announce retirement before the mega auction, for the 2025 season, later this year.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has picked MS Dhoni as India's next head coach. The current head coach Rahul Dravid's tenure is about to end following the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and the USA in June.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has picked MS Dhoni as India's next head coach. The current head coach Rahul Dravid's tenure is about to end following the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and the USA in June. The official deadline to apply for the top post was May 27. While some big foreign names distanced themselves from taking the top job, it is highly likely that an Indian will take over from Dravid. Reports have indicated that Gautam Gambhir is being looked upon as a strong candidate, however, Kohli's coach has suggested Dhoni's name should he retire from IPL. Talking on India News' programme CRICIT PREDICTA, Sharma said, "First of all, it will be interesting to see which names apply for this post. I would like that whoever becomes the coach should be an Indian. If Mahendra Singh Dhoni announces retirement, he can prove to be a good option. He (Dhoni) has played a lot of cricket and has won big tournaments." Also read: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma wont repeat mistakes from T20 World Cup 2022, feels Sanjay Manjrekar Sharma added, "Dhoni will have more respect in the dressing room and he has played this format for a long time. Being able to plan for the team and manage it properly, is most needed in the team because when Dhoni became the captain, there were big players in that team like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Harbhajan Singh, Anil Kumble, Gautam Gambhir, and Yuvraj Singh were present. Despite this, Dhoni handled the team brilliantly." Dhoni was last seen on the cricket field during the just-concluded IPL 2024. Dhoni-starrer Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowed out of the ten-team competition in the group stage, ending at the fifth position and narrowly missing out on the playoffs spot. While the legendary Indian cricketer remains mum on his IPL future, many believe he has played his last IPL season and will announce retirement before the mega auction, for the 2025 season, later this year.

MS Dhoni to be India head coach? Virat Kohli’s coach suggests him as contender

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition. The 2024 T20 World Cup kicks off on June 1 with Rohit-led India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. Before their tournament opener, Manjrekar opined that India bowed out of the 2022 edition due to Rohit-Kohli's defensive approach in the semifinals, where they lost to eventual winners England by 10 wickets, but feels the duo will not repeat their mistakes this time around.&nbsp;

<h2>'India had lost T20 WC 2022 semifinal due to Kohli, Rohit's knocks'</h2>

Manjrekar wrote in his column, "In the last T20 World Cup two years ago, in the semis against England in Adelaide, India batted first and got only 168 runs in 20 overs, and a shocking 62 in the first 10. The bulk of deliveries in this crucial period were faced by the seniors, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rohit got 27 off 28 balls at a strike rate of 96, while Virat scored 50 off 40 balls at a strike rate of 125, eventually getting out in the 18th over."

"India had lost the tournament right there. Thanks to Hardik Pandya’s 63 off 33 balls, at a strike rate of 190, India had something to show on the board. England, unsurprisingly, chased the target in 16 overs with 10 wickets in hand," Manjrekar recounted the semifinal loss.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/eng-vs-pak-england-captain-jos-buttler-to-miss-third-t20i-for-birth-of-child-726248">Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child</a>

However, Manjrekar feels Rohit and Kohli will not be making the same mistakes this time around as the Hitman has resorted to ultra-aggressive approach at the top whereas Kohli has also improved his power-hitting versus spin outside the powerplays. Manjrekar added, "Having said this, we can be sure of one thing. Rohit and Virat will not commit the same mistakes made in that semis. It’s worth acknowledging that Virat is not the same T20 player he was two years ago. He must know deep down, surely, that the ‘outside noise’ has actually made him a better T20 batter today than he was two years ago."

"Is there still a lingering risk attached to Virat – that when it comes to the big stage, the knockout games, he is preoccupied with batting longer rather than batting quicker? For Indian cricket’s sake, let’s hope this preoccupation is buried deep," the former batter concluded.

In the recent past, Rohit has been very aggressive with the bat at the top (especially in the 2023 ODI World Cup and during the T20Is versus Afghanistan early this year). Meanwhile, Kohli struck at an impressive 154.69 in IPL 2024, ending with most runs (741) in the just-concluded league. Both the batters are expected to continue their run-scoring spree, at a higher strike-rate, in the upcoming T20 WC, in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not repeat their mistakes from the 2022 T20 World Cup in the upcoming edition. The 2024 T20 World Cup kicks off on June 1 with Rohit-led India placed in Group A along with arch-rivals Pakistan, Ireland, USA and Canada. Before their tournament opener, Manjrekar opined that India bowed out of the 2022 edition due to Rohit-Kohli's defensive approach in the semifinals, where they lost to eventual winners England by 10 wickets, but feels the duo will not repeat their mistakes this time around. 'India had lost T20 WC 2022 semifinal due to Kohli, Rohit's knocks' Manjrekar wrote in his column, "In the last T20 World Cup two years ago, in the semis against England in Adelaide, India batted first and got only 168 runs in 20 overs, and a shocking 62 in the first 10. The bulk of deliveries in this crucial period were faced by the seniors, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Rohit got 27 off 28 balls at a strike rate of 96, while Virat scored 50 off 40 balls at a strike rate of 125, eventually getting out in the 18th over." "India had lost the tournament right there. Thanks to Hardik Pandya’s 63 off 33 balls, at a strike rate of 190, India had something to show on the board. England, unsurprisingly, chased the target in 16 overs with 10 wickets in hand," Manjrekar recounted the semifinal loss. Also read: Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child However, Manjrekar feels Rohit and Kohli will not be making the same mistakes this time around as the Hitman has resorted to ultra-aggressive approach at the top whereas Kohli has also improved his power-hitting versus spin outside the powerplays. Manjrekar added, "Having said this, we can be sure of one thing. Rohit and Virat will not commit the same mistakes made in that semis. It’s worth acknowledging that Virat is not the same T20 player he was two years ago. He must know deep down, surely, that the ‘outside noise’ has actually made him a better T20 batter today than he was two years ago." "Is there still a lingering risk attached to Virat – that when it comes to the big stage, the knockout games, he is preoccupied with batting longer rather than batting quicker? For Indian cricket’s sake, let’s hope this preoccupation is buried deep," the former batter concluded. In the recent past, Rohit has been very aggressive with the bat at the top (especially in the 2023 ODI World Cup and during the T20Is versus Afghanistan early this year). Meanwhile, Kohli struck at an impressive 154.69 in IPL 2024, ending with most runs (741) in the just-concluded league. Both the batters are expected to continue their run-scoring spree, at a higher strike-rate, in the upcoming T20 WC, in West Indies and USA.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma won’t repeat mistakes of T20 World Cup 2022, feels Sanjay Manjrekar

Former cricketer-turned-pundit Ambati Rayudu once again had a go at Virat Kohli, days after attacking Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for their over-enthusiastic celebrations.

Former cricketer-turned-pundit Ambati Rayudu once again had a go at Virat Kohli, days after attacking Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for their over-enthusiastic celebrations. Speaking to the host broadcaster after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lifted the trophy, Rayudu said Kohli needed to "ease" his standards to nurture other players in the team. The likes of Matthew Hayden and Kevin Pietersen - the other experts in the panel, however, did not agree with Rayudu's assessment. "When you have a stalwart or a legend like Virat Kohli, who has set really high standards for the best in the game to match. So, it is very-very hard for youngsters to be in a side like Virat Kohli and really try and match his standards because he wants the team to be at that standard," said Rayudu. At this point, Pitersen interjected and said: "But it should be good for the youngsters." "Yes, absolutely," Hayden added. "But sometimes the burden of really trying to be Virat Kohli in a squad where you know, nobody is going to be Virat Kohli," Rayudu replied to the duo. Quizzed about the emergence of Rajat Patidar who had played his own brand of cricket under Kohli, Rayudu further explained his statement. "Patidar can only be a Patidar but not Virat Kohli, and RCB as a management should understand that you can not have 11 Virat Kohli. You need to have one Virat Kohli with 10 others being themselves, have their own identities, have their own strengths and weaknesses and you need to use them well in terms of resources." Rayudu slams RCB Notably, the former Indian cricketer had slammed RCB after the franchise was knocked out of the tournament by Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator. He also clapped back at the franchise for going overboard in its celebrations. "If you talk about RCB today, it shows that only passion and aggressive celebrations don't win you trophies. You need to plan. You didn't get the IPL trophy just by reaching the playoffs. You have to play with the same hunger," said Rayudu at the time. "Don't think you will win the IPL trophy just by beating CSK. You will have to come next year once again," he added. Also read | IPL 2024: All-round Rajasthan Royals eliminate Royal Challengers Bengaluru to enter second qualifier The RCB players were criticised as MS Dhoni walked off the pitch without shaking hands with the players who were oblivious and busy celebrating the win. Videos on social media showed that Dhoni waited for the RCB players who kept celebrating before making his way to the dressing room without shaking hands. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2024: After RCB, Ambati Rayudu goes after Virat Kohli in fresh rant

Former India captain Virat Kohli did not travel with the first batch of players and support staff on Saturday (May 25) for the US ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup. Kohli, a key part of the Indian squad is also expected to miss the first and only warm-up match against Bangladesh, scheduled on June 1 as he has sought an extended break from the&nbsp;Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).&nbsp;

Kohli had conveyed to BCCI in advance that he wanted a 'mini-break' after the IPL, according to a report in The&nbsp;Indian Express newspaper.

“Kohli had informed us way beforehand that he will be joining the team late and that is why the&nbsp;BCCI has kept his visa appointment for a later date,"&nbsp;a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

The star player is now expected to fly to New York on May 30 which makes his participation in the warm-up match extremely difficult. Kohli will directly take the field&nbsp;in India's opening match&nbsp;against Ireland on June 4.

Kohli finished the IPL as the Orange Cap holder with 741 runs, which included a century and five fifties. However, his team lost in an agonising manner to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator, forcing the batter to take an extended break.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/predictable-non-risk-takers-and-unthreatening-david-llyods-assessment-of-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-724695">Also read |&nbsp;Predictable, non risk-takers and unthreatening – David Llyod’s assessment of India’s T20 World Cup squad&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

<h2>India's World Cup squad</h2>

Apart from Kohli, vice-captain Hardik Pandya and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson have also delayed their departure to the US. Samson&nbsp;has informed the BCCI that the reason for delaying his departure is 'personal work in Dubai'.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Saturday, Indian captain Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Mohammad Siraj and Shubman Gill departed for the US. Head coach Rahul Dravid, whose tenure expires after the marquee tournament, also took the flight, alongside his backroom staff.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India kickstart&nbsp;their World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5 before squaring up against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 9, followed by games against United States and Canada.

<h3>India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad:&nbsp;</h3>

Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj

Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

(With inputs from agencies)

Former India captain Virat Kohli did not travel with the first batch of players and support staff on Saturday (May 25) for the US ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup.

Former India captain Virat Kohli did not travel with the first batch of players and support staff on Saturday (May 25) for the US ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup. Kohli, a key part of the Indian squad is also expected to miss the first and only warm-up match against Bangladesh, scheduled on June 1 as he has sought an extended break from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Kohli had conveyed to BCCI in advance that he wanted a 'mini-break' after the IPL, according to a report in The Indian Express newspaper. “Kohli had informed us way beforehand that he will be joining the team late and that is why the BCCI has kept his visa appointment for a later date," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the publication. The star player is now expected to fly to New York on May 30 which makes his participation in the warm-up match extremely difficult. Kohli will directly take the field in India's opening match against Ireland on June 4. Kohli finished the IPL as the Orange Cap holder with 741 runs, which included a century and five fifties. However, his team lost in an agonising manner to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator, forcing the batter to take an extended break. Also read | Predictable, non risk-takers and unthreatening – David Llyod’s assessment of India’s T20 World Cup squad India's World Cup squad Apart from Kohli, vice-captain Hardik Pandya and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson have also delayed their departure to the US. Samson has informed the BCCI that the reason for delaying his departure is 'personal work in Dubai'. On Saturday, Indian captain Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Mohammad Siraj and Shubman Gill departed for the US. Head coach Rahul Dravid, whose tenure expires after the marquee tournament, also took the flight, alongside his backroom staff. India kickstart their World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5 before squaring up against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 9, followed by games against United States and Canada. India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan (With inputs from agencies)

Here’s why Virat Kohli could miss India’s only warm up game vs Bangladesh before T20 World Cup

The first batch of the Indian Cricket Team will depart for New York for the 2024 T20 World Cup on Saturday (May 25) at 10 P.m. from Mumbai. Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav are among the marquee players in the first batch that will fly to Dubai first and to New York after that.

The first batch of the Indian Cricket Team will depart for New York for the 2024 T20 World Cup on Saturday (May 25) at 10 P.m. from Mumbai. Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav are among the marquee players in the first batch that will fly to Dubai first and to New York after that. Meanwhile, vice-captain Hardik Pandya will fly from London to join the Indian Team in New York for the marquee event. The second lot, including players like Sanju Samson, Avesh Khan, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Yuzvendra Chahal, will depart later. The four mentioned players were part of the Rajasthan Royals side in the ongoing IPL 2024, where they lost to SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai the other night. While three RR players are part of the main squad, seamer Avesh Khan is among the four travelling reserves. Alongside him, opener Shubman Gill (Gujarat Titans), Khaleel Ahmed (Delhi Capitals) and Rinku Singh (Kolkata Knight Riders) are the remaining three. ALSO READ: Indian cricket in a nutshell - No T20 World Cup-bound player in IPL 2024 Final Of all the 19 players picked for the 20-team tournament, Rinku is the only one playing in the IPL 2024 Final. Kolkata will take on Hyderabad in the IPL 2024 Final on Sunday (May 26). Pandya to fly from London to join Team India Newly-appointed Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya flew to London after his side’s dismal campaign this season, where they finished last, winning just four out of 14 matches. Per the latest reports, Pandya will fly from London to join the Indian Team in New York for the T20 World Cup. Upon landing, the Indian Team will resume training before taking on Bangladesh in their only warm-up tie on Saturday (June 1). Meanwhile, the Men in Blue are drawn in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, co-hosts USA, Canada and Ireland; they will open their campaign against Ireland on June 5, taking on Pakistan next in the marquee T20 WC clash on June 9 (Sunday) at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad – Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup: Hardik Pandya to fly from London as Team India's first batch to depart for New York on May 25

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by four&nbsp;wickets in the eliminator of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on Wednesday (May 22). With the win, RR moved to the second qualifier against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 24 in Chennai.

Chasing a modest 173, RR's innings seems to lose control with three wickets for 31 runs in middle overs but Riyan Parag (36 on 26) and Shimron Hetmyer (26) added 45 runs for the fifth wicket to shut the door on RCB.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-watch-dinesh-karthiks-controversial-lbw-decision-in-rcb-vs-rr-724389">WATCH | Dinesh Karthik's controversial LBW decision in RCB vs RR</a>

RCB had one more lease of life with Mohammed Siraj taking out both Parag and Hetmyer in one over but Rovman Powell scored 16 not out off eight balls to seal the game in 19 overs.

Rajasthan openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tom Kohler-Cadmore also gave a good start to the chase, adding 46 runs for the first wicket before Lockie Ferguson dismissed Kohler-Cadmore in the final over of the powerplay.&nbsp;

Jaiswal was next to go in the 10th over after scoring a handy 45 off 30 balls. Two more quick wickets in skipper Sanju Samson and Dhruv Jurel gave the opposition a sniff but Parag and Hetmyer took the game away from them.

Earlier, RCB made a cautious start in the eliminator owing to some great bowling by RR bowlers, especially Trent Boult in the powerplay. Boult also took the wicket of RCB skipper Faf du Plessis (17 off 14 balls) as RCB finished the powerplay at 50/1.

Virat Kohli was next to fall to spinner Yuzvendra Chahal in the eighth over before Camron Green (27 off 21) and Rajat Patidar added 41 runs in the next five overs for the third wicket.&nbsp;

Ravi Ashwin dismissed Green to break the partnership before the veteran spinner sent back Glenn Maxwell for a golden duck on the very next ball.

RCB had added 25 runs more to their total when Patidar (34 off 22) also departed in the 15th over. Mahipal Lomror's innings of 32 off 17 balls then took RCB to 172/8 in 20 overs.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by four wickets in the eliminator of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on Wednesday (May 22). With the win, RR moved to the second qualifier against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 24 in Chennai.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by four wickets in the eliminator of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on Wednesday (May 22). With the win, RR moved to the second qualifier against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 24 in Chennai. Chasing a modest 173, RR's innings seems to lose control with three wickets for 31 runs in middle overs but Riyan Parag (36 on 26) and Shimron Hetmyer (26) added 45 runs for the fifth wicket to shut the door on RCB. Also Read: WATCH | Dinesh Karthik's controversial LBW decision in RCB vs RR RCB had one more lease of life with Mohammed Siraj taking out both Parag and Hetmyer in one over but Rovman Powell scored 16 not out off eight balls to seal the game in 19 overs. Rajasthan openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tom Kohler-Cadmore also gave a good start to the chase, adding 46 runs for the first wicket before Lockie Ferguson dismissed Kohler-Cadmore in the final over of the powerplay. Jaiswal was next to go in the 10th over after scoring a handy 45 off 30 balls. Two more quick wickets in skipper Sanju Samson and Dhruv Jurel gave the opposition a sniff but Parag and Hetmyer took the game away from them. Earlier, RCB made a cautious start in the eliminator owing to some great bowling by RR bowlers, especially Trent Boult in the powerplay. Boult also took the wicket of RCB skipper Faf du Plessis (17 off 14 balls) as RCB finished the powerplay at 50/1. Virat Kohli was next to fall to spinner Yuzvendra Chahal in the eighth over before Camron Green (27 off 21) and Rajat Patidar added 41 runs in the next five overs for the third wicket. Ravi Ashwin dismissed Green to break the partnership before the veteran spinner sent back Glenn Maxwell for a golden duck on the very next ball. RCB had added 25 runs more to their total when Patidar (34 off 22) also departed in the 15th over. Mahipal Lomror's innings of 32 off 17 balls then took RCB to 172/8 in 20 overs.

IPL 2024: All-round Rajasthan Royals eliminate Royal Challengers Bengaluru to enter second qualifier

Former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen has urged Virat Kohli to leave Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to achieve his dream of winning an IPL trophy following his side's 4-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2024's Eliminator, on Wednesday (May 22) in Ahmedabad. RCB&nbsp;entered the playoffs on the back of a six-match winning streak only to bow out in the Eliminator after failing to defend 172/8.

After the match, Pietersen asked Kohli to consider leaving RCB -- who remain without an IPL trophy since 2008 when the tournament commenced. The former English captain feels that Kohli deserves an IPL trophy and, hence, his best shot is leaving the RCB franchise (where he has been associated since 2008).

<h2>'Virat Kohli deserves to play in a team that could help him to get that trophy'</h2>

Talking to Star Sports, Pietersen said, "I have said it before and I will say it again -- the greats of the game in other sports, have left teams to go and seek glory somewhere else. When he has tried and tried so hard -- won the Orange Cap yet again and done so much yet again and the franchise fails again I understand for the brand of the team and the commercial value he brings to the team... But Virat Kohli deserves a trophy. He deserves to play in a team that could help him to get that trophy."

"I actually think it should be Delhi. Delhi is the place where Virat needs to go. Virat can go away, and stay at home most of the time, I know he has a home in Delhi. He has a young family. He can spend more time there. He is a Delhi boy. Why can't he go back? Delhi are as desperate as Bengaluru," he further mentioned.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-all-round-rajasthan-royals-eliminate-royal-challengers-bengaluru-to-enter-second-qualifier-724402">IPL 2024: All-round Rajasthan Royals eliminate Royal Challengers Bengaluru to enter second qualifier</a>

<h2>KP CITES CR7, BECKHAM, MESSI's EXAMPLES</h2>

Pietersen further cited the examples of football superstars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Lionel Messi and others who left their previous clubs for better success and brighter future.

"I think it's about time Virat thought long and hard. Beckham left, Ronaldo left, Messi left, Harry Kane just left Spurs and went to Bayern Munich," he added.

Kohli ended IPL 2024 with 741 runs in 15 games, averaging&nbsp;61.75 with a strike-rate of 154.69. He is set to win the Orange Cap once again but his dream of lifting the IPL trophy continues.&nbsp;

Talking about the Eliminator, RCB were asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. They rode on Kohli's 33 (24), Rajat Patidar's 34 (22) and Mahipal Lomror's 32 (17) to post 172-8. RR bowlers Avesh Khan and R Ashwin combined to share five scalps. In reply, Rajasthan emerged on top in a nail-biting run-chase courtesy of Yashasvi Jaiswal's 45 (30) and useful knocks from Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell.&nbsp;

RR won by four wickets and will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 2, in Chennai on Friday (May 24). The winner will head to the IPL 2024 final, to lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Sunday (May 26) in Chennai.&nbsp;

Former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen has urged Virat Kohli to leave Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to achieve his dream of winning an IPL trophy following his side's 4-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2024's Eliminator, on Wednesday (May 22) in Ahmedabad.

Former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen has urged Virat Kohli to leave Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to achieve his dream of winning an IPL trophy following his side's 4-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2024's Eliminator, on Wednesday (May 22) in Ahmedabad. RCB entered the playoffs on the back of a six-match winning streak only to bow out in the Eliminator after failing to defend 172/8. After the match, Pietersen asked Kohli to consider leaving RCB -- who remain without an IPL trophy since 2008 when the tournament commenced. The former English captain feels that Kohli deserves an IPL trophy and, hence, his best shot is leaving the RCB franchise (where he has been associated since 2008). 'Virat Kohli deserves to play in a team that could help him to get that trophy' Talking to Star Sports, Pietersen said, "I have said it before and I will say it again -- the greats of the game in other sports, have left teams to go and seek glory somewhere else. When he has tried and tried so hard -- won the Orange Cap yet again and done so much yet again and the franchise fails again I understand for the brand of the team and the commercial value he brings to the team... But Virat Kohli deserves a trophy. He deserves to play in a team that could help him to get that trophy." "I actually think it should be Delhi. Delhi is the place where Virat needs to go. Virat can go away, and stay at home most of the time, I know he has a home in Delhi. He has a young family. He can spend more time there. He is a Delhi boy. Why can't he go back? Delhi are as desperate as Bengaluru," he further mentioned. Also read: IPL 2024: All-round Rajasthan Royals eliminate Royal Challengers Bengaluru to enter second qualifier KP CITES CR7, BECKHAM, MESSI's EXAMPLES Pietersen further cited the examples of football superstars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Lionel Messi and others who left their previous clubs for better success and brighter future. "I think it's about time Virat thought long and hard. Beckham left, Ronaldo left, Messi left, Harry Kane just left Spurs and went to Bayern Munich," he added. Kohli ended IPL 2024 with 741 runs in 15 games, averaging 61.75 with a strike-rate of 154.69. He is set to win the Orange Cap once again but his dream of lifting the IPL trophy continues. Talking about the Eliminator, RCB were asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. They rode on Kohli's 33 (24), Rajat Patidar's 34 (22) and Mahipal Lomror's 32 (17) to post 172-8. RR bowlers Avesh Khan and R Ashwin combined to share five scalps. In reply, Rajasthan emerged on top in a nail-biting run-chase courtesy of Yashasvi Jaiswal's 45 (30) and useful knocks from Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell. RR won by four wickets and will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 2, in Chennai on Friday (May 24). The winner will head to the IPL 2024 final, to lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Sunday (May 26) in Chennai.

Virat Kohli needs to leave RCB, deserves an IPL trophy: Former England captain Kevin Pietersen

Former England cricketer-turned-broadcaster David Lloyd has called the Indian squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup predictable and a bunch of non-risk-takers. Lloyd feels the chosen 15 for the 20-team tournament are unthreatening, giving opposition teams a chance against the hyped Men in Blue side in the Americas.

Former England cricketer-turned-broadcaster David Lloyd has called the Indian squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup predictable and a bunch of non-risk-takers. Lloyd feels the chosen 15 for the 20-team tournament are unthreatening, giving opposition teams a chance against the hyped Men in Blue side in the Americas. Lloyd’s remarks have come on the back of India’s dismal record in the ICC tournaments since last winning it more than a decade ago. On the TalkSPORT Cricket Podcast, Lloyd said the opposition teams will look at India as a side with big names and a few match-winners but wouldn’t get intimidated by their playing style, which he called unthreatening. ALSO READ: ‘Profit over passion’ - Lalit Modi slams ICC for $20000 ticket price for India-Pakistan T20 WC tie "(It is) quite a predictable team. The shackles are not off. I would think the opposition accepts the quality.. yeah, good players these. But they ain't taking a risk with bat or ball. So, you'd think of them as 'yeah, they will have their moments,' but they wouldn't be really threatening," said Lloyd. Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team came close to winning the T20 World Cup in the previous edition in Australia, where they reached the last four but got knocked out by the eventual winners England by 10 wickets in the semis. They made it to the semis (2016) and even the final (2014) on two occasions before, but the Asian giant failed to win on D-Day. They won the maiden edition in South Africa in 2007. Chaos in the lead-up to squad selection Following the first half of the ongoing IPL 2024, the selectors had plenty of options to pick from, given how some youngsters, including Abhishek Sharma and Avesh Khan, were making headlines with their star performances throughout. Although other names like Rinku Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubman Gill remained in contention for the T20 WC berth, the selection committee picked a predictable 15 for the marquee event. Rohit Sharma continues to lead the team, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and star batter Virat Kohli picked as the top-order players. Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya will make up the middle order, while Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson are picked as keeper batters. Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel are two spin-bowling all-rounders, whereas Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are front-line spinners. Ace pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj tick the seam-bowling department. Although Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee ignored KL Rahul, they picked Rinku, Shubman, Avesh and Khaleel Ahmed as travelling reserves. India will open their T20 WC campaign against Ireland on June 5 before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in the marquee clash on June 9 in New York.

Predictable, non risk-takers and unthreatening – David Llyod’s assessment of India’s T20 World Cup squad

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli reached another batting milestone during the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on May 22 by becoming the first batter to score 8,000 runs in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Kohli scored 33 off 24 balls in the match to breach the 8000-run mark. He now has 8,004 runs in 244 innings of 252 matches at an average of 38 and a strike rate of 132. Kohli has hit 55 fifties and eight hundreds in the league - the most for any batter.

The RCB batter is miles ahead of the competition in terms of most runs in IPL with Shikhar Dhawan being a distant second with 6,769 runs and Indian skipper Rohit Sharma third with 6,628 runs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-nepals-sandeep-lamichhane-denied-us-visa-for-upcoming-tournament-724350">T20 World Cup 2024: Nepal's Sandeep Lamichhane denied US visa for upcoming tournament</a>

As for the match, RCB made a cautious start in the eliminator owing to some great bowling by RR bowlers, especially Trent Boult in the powerplay. Boult also took the wicket of RCB skipper Faf du Plessis (17 off 14 balls) as RCB finished the powerplay at 50/1.

Kohli was next to fall to spinner Yuzvendra Chahal in the eighth over before Cameron Green (27 off 21) and Rajat Patidar added 41 runs in the next five overs for the third wicket.&nbsp;

Ravi Ashwin dismissed Green to break the partnership before the veteran spinner sent back Glenn Maxwell for a golden duck on the very next ball.

RCB had added 25 runs more to their total when Patidar (34 off 22) also departed in the 15th over. Mahipal Lomror's innings of 32 off 17 balls then took RCB past 150 as they finished at 172/8 in 20 overs.

For Rajasthan, Avesh Khan was the pick of the bowlers with 3/44 in four overs while Ashwin took 2/19 in his four overs. Apart from them, Boult, Sandeep Sharma and Chahal also picked one wicket each.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli reached another batting milestone during the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on May 22 by becoming the first batter to score 8,000 runs in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli reached another batting milestone during the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on May 22 by becoming the first batter to score 8,000 runs in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli scored 33 off 24 balls in the match to breach the 8000-run mark. He now has 8,004 runs in 244 innings of 252 matches at an average of 38 and a strike rate of 132. Kohli has hit 55 fifties and eight hundreds in the league - the most for any batter. The RCB batter is miles ahead of the competition in terms of most runs in IPL with Shikhar Dhawan being a distant second with 6,769 runs and Indian skipper Rohit Sharma third with 6,628 runs. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2024: Nepal's Sandeep Lamichhane denied US visa for upcoming tournament As for the match, RCB made a cautious start in the eliminator owing to some great bowling by RR bowlers, especially Trent Boult in the powerplay. Boult also took the wicket of RCB skipper Faf du Plessis (17 off 14 balls) as RCB finished the powerplay at 50/1. Kohli was next to fall to spinner Yuzvendra Chahal in the eighth over before Cameron Green (27 off 21) and Rajat Patidar added 41 runs in the next five overs for the third wicket. Ravi Ashwin dismissed Green to break the partnership before the veteran spinner sent back Glenn Maxwell for a golden duck on the very next ball. RCB had added 25 runs more to their total when Patidar (34 off 22) also departed in the 15th over. Mahipal Lomror's innings of 32 off 17 balls then took RCB past 150 as they finished at 172/8 in 20 overs. For Rajasthan, Avesh Khan was the pick of the bowlers with 3/44 in four overs while Ashwin took 2/19 in his four overs. Apart from them, Boult, Sandeep Sharma and Chahal also picked one wicket each.

IPL 2024: RCB's Virat Kohli becomes first to score 8000 runs in tournament

The reports of threat to Virat Kohli&nbsp;and RCB's cancelled practice ahead on the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals on May 22 have been called out the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA).&nbsp;

"There was no terror threat. We had made provision for both the Rajasthan Royals and RCB to practice at the Gujarat College ground. RCB were supposed to practice from 2 to 5pm, before they changed it to 3-6pm, as the light is good till 6.30pm in the summer in Ahmedabad. However, the Rajasthan Royals practiced from 3.30 to 6.30pm at the Gujarat College ground with their full squad," Anil Patel, secretary of GCA said.

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidtfYc9CqRUw1t" />Earlier, it was reported that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had to cancel their solitary practice session before the IPL&nbsp;Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals due to security reasons, a report has claimed. Concerns around star player Virat Kohli's security prompted the franchise to abandon its practice session as well as the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

According to a report in&nbsp;Anandabazaar Patrika, RCB abandoned the session after Gujarat Police arrested four people from Ahmedabad over suspicion of terrorist activity.&nbsp;

RCB were supposed to practice at the&nbsp;Gujarat&nbsp;College Ground ahead of the match scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;

After the police informed both the franchises about the arrests, the Bengaluru-based team acted on the call and cancelled all commitments of the day while Rajasthan went ahead with its schedule.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli learned about the arrests after arriving in Ahmedabad. He is a national treasure, and his security is our utmost priority," Vijay Singha Jwala, a police officer was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

"RCB did not want to take a risk. They informed us that there would be no practice session. Rajasthan Royals were also informed about the development, but they had no problems going ahead with their practice."

Subsequently, the security was beefed up outside RCB's team hotel with IPL-accredited membersalso&nbsp; not being allowed to enter the hotel premises.&nbsp;

As for the Royals, a 'green corridor' was prepared and three police convoys escorted the team bus. While skipper Sanju Samson arrived late, the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Riyan Parag and Yuzvendra Chahal skipped the practice session and remained at the hotel.&nbsp;

As the players went through their drills, heavy security patrolled the ground.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/will-you-come-back-ask-fans-as-fugitive-vijay-mallya-talks-about-virat-kohli-ahead-of-rcbs-knockout-match-724220" target="_blank">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;'Will you come back?' ask fans as fugitive Vijay Mallya talks about Virat Kohli ahead of RCB's knockout match</a>

<h2>RCB face&nbsp;RR&nbsp;challenge.&nbsp;</h2>

RCB managed to qualify for the playoffs after a remarkable turnaround in form which saw them win six matches on the bounce. In the virtual knockout that was the final league match,&nbsp;RCB staved off the Chennai Super Kings challenge to set up the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals.&nbsp;

The winner of the Eliminator will square up against SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai, with the winner qualifying for the final to face Kolkata Knight Riders.&nbsp;

Squads: 

Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Rovman Powell, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Sandeep Sharma, Avesh Khan, Nandre Burger, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Sen, Shubham Dubey, Keshav Maharaj, Donovan Ferreira, Navdeep Saini, Shimron Hetmyer, Tanush Kotian, Abid Mushtaq, Kunal Singh Rathore

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis(c), Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik(w), Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Yash Dayal, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, Swapnil Singh, Anuj Rawat, Suyash Prabhudessai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Himanshu Sharma, Mayank Dagar, Alzarri Joseph, Manoj Bhandage, Akash Deep, Saurav Chauhan, Rajan Kumar, Tom Curran

(With inputs from agencies)

The reports of threat to Virat Kohli and RCB's cancelled practice ahead on the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals on May 22 have been called out the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA).

The reports of threat to Virat Kohli and RCB's cancelled practice ahead on the eliminator against Rajasthan Royals on May 22 have been called out the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA). "There was no terror threat. We had made provision for both the Rajasthan Royals and RCB to practice at the Gujarat College ground. RCB were supposed to practice from 2 to 5pm, before they changed it to 3-6pm, as the light is good till 6.30pm in the summer in Ahmedabad. However, the Rajasthan Royals practiced from 3.30 to 6.30pm at the Gujarat College ground with their full squad," Anil Patel, secretary of GCA said. Earlier, it was reported that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had to cancel their solitary practice session before the IPL Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals due to security reasons, a report has claimed. Concerns around star player Virat Kohli's security prompted the franchise to abandon its practice session as well as the pre-match press conference. According to a report in Anandabazaar Patrika, RCB abandoned the session after Gujarat Police arrested four people from Ahmedabad over suspicion of terrorist activity. RCB were supposed to practice at the Gujarat College Ground ahead of the match scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium. After the police informed both the franchises about the arrests, the Bengaluru-based team acted on the call and cancelled all commitments of the day while Rajasthan went ahead with its schedule. "Virat Kohli learned about the arrests after arriving in Ahmedabad. He is a national treasure, and his security is our utmost priority," Vijay Singha Jwala, a police officer was quoted as saying by the publication. "RCB did not want to take a risk. They informed us that there would be no practice session. Rajasthan Royals were also informed about the development, but they had no problems going ahead with their practice." Subsequently, the security was beefed up outside RCB's team hotel with IPL-accredited membersalso not being allowed to enter the hotel premises. As for the Royals, a 'green corridor' was prepared and three police convoys escorted the team bus. While skipper Sanju Samson arrived late, the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Riyan Parag and Yuzvendra Chahal skipped the practice session and remained at the hotel. As the players went through their drills, heavy security patrolled the ground. Also read | 'Will you come back?' ask fans as fugitive Vijay Mallya talks about Virat Kohli ahead of RCB's knockout match RCB face RR challenge. RCB managed to qualify for the playoffs after a remarkable turnaround in form which saw them win six matches on the bounce. In the virtual knockout that was the final league match, RCB staved off the Chennai Super Kings challenge to set up the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals. The winner of the Eliminator will square up against SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai, with the winner qualifying for the final to face Kolkata Knight Riders. Squads: Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Rovman Powell, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Sandeep Sharma, Avesh Khan, Nandre Burger, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Sen, Shubham Dubey, Keshav Maharaj, Donovan Ferreira, Navdeep Saini, Shimron Hetmyer, Tanush Kotian, Abid Mushtaq, Kunal Singh Rathore Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis(c), Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik(w), Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Yash Dayal, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, Swapnil Singh, Anuj Rawat, Suyash Prabhudessai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Himanshu Sharma, Mayank Dagar, Alzarri Joseph, Manoj Bhandage, Akash Deep, Saurav Chauhan, Rajan Kumar, Tom Curran (With inputs from agencies)

Gujarat Cricket Association reveals actual REASON behind RCB's cancelled practice and Virat Kohli's threat

Fugitive and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) owner Vijay Mallya has patted his own back for picking Virat Kohli in the auction ahead of the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2008. Mallya, who has been on the run from the Indian authorities over financial fraud, wished best of luck to RCB who face Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 22).&nbsp;

RCB bought Kohli for $30,000 for the 2008 edition after he led India to victory in the 2008 U19 World Cup. Despite not having won the IPL title even once, Kohli has remained loyal to the franchise and expressed on multiple occasions that he hopes to end his playing career in Bengaluru.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"When I bid for the RCB franchise and I bid for Virat, my inner instinct told me that I could not have made better choices. My inner instinct tells me that RCB have the best chance to go for the IPL Trophy. Onward and Upward. Best of luck,"&nbsp;Mallya posted on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;

The fans on the social media, however, had a field day trolling Mallya who usually only posts on the platform on bank holidays while sitting in the UK, away from the Indian authorities.&nbsp;

"For the first time in 6-7 years he has tweeted on a non holiday. We are massive," said one user, while another commented: "What did your instinct tell you when you fled the country instead of paying what you owed, you THIEF."

A third added: "Your inner instinct doesn't tell you to come back and watch the match in the stadium?"

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When I bid for the RCB franchise and I bid for Virat, my inner instinct told me that I could not have made better choices. My inner instinct tells me that RCB have the best chance to go for the IPL Trophy. Onward and Upward. Best of luck.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1793023778965922195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The industrialist, whose interests include everything from alcohol to cricket to Formula 1 to aviation, is currently in Britain, as the Indian government attempts to extradite him. Despite receiving multiple summons, Mallya has failed to show up in court.

In 2017, the Supreme Court found Mallya in contempt of court for hiding information from the court about sending $40 million to his children in violation of the court's order. The court has summoned him on several instances.

<h2>RCB face RR challenge</h2>

RCB managed to qualify for the playoffs after a remarkable turnaround in form which saw them win six matches on the bounce. In the virtual knockout that was the final league match,&nbsp;RCB staved off the Chennai Super Kings challenge to set up the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals.&nbsp;

The winner of the Eliminator will square up against SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai, with the winner qualifying for the final to face Kolkata Knight Riders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Fugitive and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) owner Vijay Mallya has patted his own back for picking Virat Kohli in the auction ahead of the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2008.

Fugitive and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) owner Vijay Mallya has patted his own back for picking Virat Kohli in the auction ahead of the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2008. Mallya, who has been on the run from the Indian authorities over financial fraud, wished best of luck to RCB who face Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 22). RCB bought Kohli for $30,000 for the 2008 edition after he led India to victory in the 2008 U19 World Cup. Despite not having won the IPL title even once, Kohli has remained loyal to the franchise and expressed on multiple occasions that he hopes to end his playing career in Bengaluru. "When I bid for the RCB franchise and I bid for Virat, my inner instinct told me that I could not have made better choices. My inner instinct tells me that RCB have the best chance to go for the IPL Trophy. Onward and Upward. Best of luck," Mallya posted on X (formerly Twitter). The fans on the social media, however, had a field day trolling Mallya who usually only posts on the platform on bank holidays while sitting in the UK, away from the Indian authorities. "For the first time in 6-7 years he has tweeted on a non holiday. We are massive," said one user, while another commented: "What did your instinct tell you when you fled the country instead of paying what you owed, you THIEF." A third added: "Your inner instinct doesn't tell you to come back and watch the match in the stadium?" When I bid for the RCB franchise and I bid for Virat, my inner instinct told me that I could not have made better choices. My inner instinct tells me that RCB have the best chance to go for the IPL Trophy. Onward and Upward. Best of luck. — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) May 21, 2024 × The industrialist, whose interests include everything from alcohol to cricket to Formula 1 to aviation, is currently in Britain, as the Indian government attempts to extradite him. Despite receiving multiple summons, Mallya has failed to show up in court. In 2017, the Supreme Court found Mallya in contempt of court for hiding information from the court about sending $40 million to his children in violation of the court's order. The court has summoned him on several instances. RCB face RR challenge RCB managed to qualify for the playoffs after a remarkable turnaround in form which saw them win six matches on the bounce. In the virtual knockout that was the final league match, RCB staved off the Chennai Super Kings challenge to set up the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals. The winner of the Eliminator will square up against SunRisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 in Chennai, with the winner qualifying for the final to face Kolkata Knight Riders. (With inputs from agencies)

'Will you come back?' ask fans as fugitive Vijay Mallya talks about Virat Kohli ahead of RCB's knockout match

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format. Punter added that Kohli will be his 'first pick' for India in T20Is.

In recent times, Kohli has been a target of a lot of criticism regarding his strike-rate in T20Is (138.15). The 35-year-old even entered IPL 2024 with a lot of eyebrows on his strike rate, with many raising fingers at his ability to keep the tempo of the innings up right throughout (especially in the middle-overs). Nonetheless, the former Indian captain has silenced his critics in style in this year's IPL, being the highest run-getter with&nbsp;708 runs at an average of 64.36 and a strike-rate of 155.60.

Thus, Ponting slammed Kohli's critics. He told the ICC, "It's funny with Virat. I think people in India just always try to find a reason not to pick him or a reason why he's maybe not as good as some of those other guys in the T20 game. He (Kohli) is the first pick for me for India."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/security-threat-to-virat-kohli-prompts-rcb-to-cancel-practice-session-report-724256">Security threat to Virat Kohli prompts RCB to cancel practice session ahead of Eliminator: Report</a>

Punter added, "He can play his role at the top. And if you've got the right guys around him scoring (like) Suryakumar (Yadav), Rohit Sharma's going to have a high strike rate. These other guys can go in there and play their way."

Kohli returned to India's T20I setup early this year after a 14-month break. Given how he has fared in the IPL, the veteran looks well prepared to tackle the tricky and contrasting conditions and nature of the surface in West Indies and USA, the co-hosts for the upcoming T20 WC.

Rohit Sharma-led India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has slammed Virat Kohli's T20I critics who keep calling for his ouster from the national side. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, which kicks off next month in West Indies and USA, former Aussie batter Ponting has lauded Kohli and feels the right-hander has a lot to offer to India in the shortest format. Punter added that Kohli will be his 'first pick' for India in T20Is. In recent times, Kohli has been a target of a lot of criticism regarding his strike-rate in T20Is (138.15). The 35-year-old even entered IPL 2024 with a lot of eyebrows on his strike rate, with many raising fingers at his ability to keep the tempo of the innings up right throughout (especially in the middle-overs). Nonetheless, the former Indian captain has silenced his critics in style in this year's IPL, being the highest run-getter with 708 runs at an average of 64.36 and a strike-rate of 155.60. Thus, Ponting slammed Kohli's critics. He told the ICC, "It's funny with Virat. I think people in India just always try to find a reason not to pick him or a reason why he's maybe not as good as some of those other guys in the T20 game. He (Kohli) is the first pick for me for India." Also read: Security threat to Virat Kohli prompts RCB to cancel practice session ahead of Eliminator: Report Punter added, "He can play his role at the top. And if you've got the right guys around him scoring (like) Suryakumar (Yadav), Rohit Sharma's going to have a high strike rate. These other guys can go in there and play their way." Kohli returned to India's T20I setup early this year after a 14-month break. Given how he has fared in the IPL, the veteran looks well prepared to tackle the tricky and contrasting conditions and nature of the surface in West Indies and USA, the co-hosts for the upcoming T20 WC. Rohit Sharma-led India are placed in Group A along with Pakistan, USA, Ireland and Canada. They open their campaign on June 5 versus Ireland in New York.

Funny how people want him dropped from T20Is: Ponting silences Virat Kohli's critics before T20 World Cup

Pakistan are set to lock horns with England in a four-match T20I series, in England, starting on May 22 (Wednesday). This will be the final preparations for both the sides as they head into the 2024 T20 World Cup due&nbsp;to kickoff in West Indies and USA in June. Ahead of the series opener, all eyes are on Pakistan's white-ball skipper Babar Azam.

If Pakistan have to strengthen their T20 WC preparations and win the series versus Jos Buttler &amp; Co., Babar will have to be among runs from the first game itself. The right-hander played a blinder in his side's 2-1 T20I series win over Ireland before heading to the United Kingdom. Ahead of the first game, to be held at&nbsp;Headingley, Leeds on Wednesday, here are a plethora of records, owned by Indian superstars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, which can be broken by Babar in the four-match seriesm, and the numbers needed by him to script history:

45 – Babar&nbsp;is just 45 runs short of becoming only the third batter to enter the 4000-run club&nbsp;in T20Is.&nbsp;Kohli and Suzie Bates (of New Zealand) are the other batters to have achieved this feat.

20 - The Pakistan skipper needs 20 more runs to overtake current Indian captain&nbsp;Rohit&nbsp;as the second-highest run-scorer in the shortest format. Hitman&nbsp;has&nbsp;3,974 runs from 151 T20Is -- second-most after Kohli.

83 - Babar&nbsp;is 83 runs away from&nbsp;becoming&nbsp;the all-time leading run-scorer in men’s T20Is. Kohli's tally currently is&nbsp;4,037 runs from 117 T20Is.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bangladesh-suffer-shock-defeat-against-usa-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-724109">Bangladesh suffer shock defeat against USA ahead of T20 World Cup</a>

48- Babar&nbsp;also needs 48 runs to become the all-time leading run-scorer in T20Is versus two-time T20 WC winner England. At present,&nbsp;Kohli holds the record, amassing&nbsp;639 runs from 20 games.

95 – The 29-year-old Pakistani star&nbsp;needs 95 runs to become the highest run-getter among away batters in T20Is on English soil. Australia's T20 WC-winning skipper&nbsp;Aaron Finch is the&nbsp;record-holder at the moment;&nbsp;370 runs in six T20Is at a whopping&nbsp;average of 61.66.

Babar will be eager to make the most of the four-match series versus England and attain all these records before entering the T20 WC. However, it won't be easy against the current T20 WC champions England in their own soil.&nbsp;

After this series, the Men in Green will move towards the T20 WC -- without any warm-up games -- where they are placed in Group A along with India, USA, Canada and Ireland. Their marquee encounter versus Team India is on June 9 in New York.

Pakistan are set to lock horns with England in a four-match T20I series, in England, starting on May 22 (Wednesday). This will be the final preparations for both the sides as they head into the 2024 T20 World Cup due to kickoff in West Indies and USA in June.

Pakistan are set to lock horns with England in a four-match T20I series, in England, starting on May 22 (Wednesday). This will be the final preparations for both the sides as they head into the 2024 T20 World Cup due to kickoff in West Indies and USA in June. Ahead of the series opener, all eyes are on Pakistan's white-ball skipper Babar Azam. If Pakistan have to strengthen their T20 WC preparations and win the series versus Jos Buttler & Co., Babar will have to be among runs from the first game itself. The right-hander played a blinder in his side's 2-1 T20I series win over Ireland before heading to the United Kingdom. Ahead of the first game, to be held at Headingley, Leeds on Wednesday, here are a plethora of records, owned by Indian superstars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, which can be broken by Babar in the four-match seriesm, and the numbers needed by him to script history: 45 – Babar is just 45 runs short of becoming only the third batter to enter the 4000-run club in T20Is. Kohli and Suzie Bates (of New Zealand) are the other batters to have achieved this feat. 20 - The Pakistan skipper needs 20 more runs to overtake current Indian captain Rohit as the second-highest run-scorer in the shortest format. Hitman has 3,974 runs from 151 T20Is -- second-most after Kohli. 83 - Babar is 83 runs away from becoming the all-time leading run-scorer in men’s T20Is. Kohli's tally currently is 4,037 runs from 117 T20Is. Also read: Bangladesh suffer shock defeat against USA ahead of T20 World Cup 48- Babar also needs 48 runs to become the all-time leading run-scorer in T20Is versus two-time T20 WC winner England. At present, Kohli holds the record, amassing 639 runs from 20 games. 95 – The 29-year-old Pakistani star needs 95 runs to become the highest run-getter among away batters in T20Is on English soil. Australia's T20 WC-winning skipper Aaron Finch is the record-holder at the moment; 370 runs in six T20Is at a whopping average of 61.66. Babar will be eager to make the most of the four-match series versus England and attain all these records before entering the T20 WC. However, it won't be easy against the current T20 WC champions England in their own soil. After this series, the Men in Green will move towards the T20 WC -- without any warm-up games -- where they are placed in Group A along with India, USA, Canada and Ireland. Their marquee encounter versus Team India is on June 9 in New York.

Eng vs Pak: Major milestones awaited! Pakistan captain Babar Azam nears Rohit, Kohli’s all-time T20I records

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli says that the team now got to focus on next match after winning a thrilling Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Saturday (May 18). The win, RCB's sixth on the trot, took them to the playoffs while CSK were ousted.

"God’s got a plan, you just have to be honest about what you are doing, and I think we were pretty honest with our hard work, and we got the rewards," Kohli said in a video posted by his team RCB. "I don’t want to say anything more than this. Got to focus on the next one," he added further.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-watch-t20-world-cup-bound-arshdeep-clean-bowls-travis-head-on-first-ball-in-pbks-vs-srh-723094">WATCH | T20 World Cup-bound Arshdeep clean bowls Travis Head on first ball in PBKS vs SRH</a>

RCB had to win by a margin of 18 runs or more after winning the toss and electing to bat first at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. RCB fans had their heart in mouth when rain arrived shortly after the start of match but it receded quickly and the match was eventually completed without any loss of overs.

Needing 17 runs to qualify in the last over, RCB's Yash Dayal was hit for a six on the first ball of the over by MS Dhoni but gave just one run in the next five balls, taking his team home. The over was somewhat redemption for Dayal who had given five sixes on last five balls of the match last year against KKR's Rinku Singh.

With the win, RCB, Delhi Capitals and CSK all finished with 14 points but RCB went ahead in the playoffs on the basis of a better net run rate. Kohli played an important role for them with the bat, scoring 708 runs in 14 league games - the most for any player.

RCB will now play against the third placed team in the first eliminator on May 22 in Ahmedabad.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli says that the team now got to focus on next match after winning a thrilling Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Saturday (May 18).

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli says that the team now got to focus on next match after winning a thrilling Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Saturday (May 18). The win, RCB's sixth on the trot, took them to the playoffs while CSK were ousted. "God’s got a plan, you just have to be honest about what you are doing, and I think we were pretty honest with our hard work, and we got the rewards," Kohli said in a video posted by his team RCB. "I don’t want to say anything more than this. Got to focus on the next one," he added further. Also Read: WATCH | T20 World Cup-bound Arshdeep clean bowls Travis Head on first ball in PBKS vs SRH RCB had to win by a margin of 18 runs or more after winning the toss and electing to bat first at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. RCB fans had their heart in mouth when rain arrived shortly after the start of match but it receded quickly and the match was eventually completed without any loss of overs. Needing 17 runs to qualify in the last over, RCB's Yash Dayal was hit for a six on the first ball of the over by MS Dhoni but gave just one run in the next five balls, taking his team home. The over was somewhat redemption for Dayal who had given five sixes on last five balls of the match last year against KKR's Rinku Singh. With the win, RCB, Delhi Capitals and CSK all finished with 14 points but RCB went ahead in the playoffs on the basis of a better net run rate. Kohli played an important role for them with the bat, scoring 708 runs in 14 league games - the most for any player. RCB will now play against the third placed team in the first eliminator on May 22 in Ahmedabad.

IPL 2024: 'I don’t want...,' RCB's Virat Kohli on what next for team after entering playoffs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have booked their place in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) Playoff after registering their sixth consecutive win on Saturday (May 18).

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have booked their place in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) Playoff after registering their sixth consecutive win on Saturday (May 18). Needing to win by 18 runs to seal Playoff qualification, RCB got the better of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 27 runs at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The defeat for CSK also saw them get eliminated from the league stage as their title defense came to an end. This was not meant to happen, this could not happen. This is happening, THIS HAS HAPPENED! 🥹#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB #IPL2024 #RCBvCSK pic.twitter.com/sKDBQD3GaN — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 18, 2024 × RCB down CSK Needing to win by 18 runs or more to qualify for the Playoff, it was calm and composed bowling in the final over from Yash Dayal which helped RCB beat CSK. Dayal stopped the likes of MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja despite CSK needing 11 runs to qualify for the Playoffs with five balls in hand. He scalped Dhoni on the second ball, having conceded a six on the previous delivery. That was followed by priceless dot balls before restricting Jadeja from hitting the qualification runs. CSK could only manage 191/7 in their 20 overs having been asked to score at least 201 runs to clinch qualification. Earlier asked to bat first, RCB managed to score 218/5 in their 20 overs despite rain being an uninvited member during their innings. Skipper Faf du Plessis (54) and Virat Kohli (47) laid the foundation for the innings as the duo stitched 78 runs for the opening wicket. Rajat Patidar (41) and Cameron Green (38 off 17) also contributed to the team’s cause helping RCB reach the 200-run mark. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Mumbai Indians coach Mark Boucher reveals 'what next for Rohit Sharma' For CSK, Shardul Thakur scalped two wickets but gave away 61 runs in his four overs while Tushar Deshpande and Mitchell Santner ended with one wicket each. Playoff scenario With the win, RCB have become the fourth team to book a qualification berth and join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). RCB finish fourth and will play in the Eliminator clash against either SRH or RR, depending on who finishes third. The other Playoff contest will see KKR play against RR or SRH in Qualifier 1. Both the Eliminator and the Qualifier 1 will take place in Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium before the attention switches to Chennai for Qualifier 2 and final.

IPL 2024: RCB down CSK in qualification thriller, register sixth consecutive win to book Playoff berth

Two giants of world cricket – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli might face off for the final time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Saturday (May 18) at M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru.

Two giants of world cricket – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli might face off for the final time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Saturday (May 18) at M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru. The Clash of the Titans between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings will determine the fourth team to qualify for IPL 2024 playoffs, beginning May 21. Amidst reports of rain playing spoilsport in this marquee clash, here is the match preview and result prediction of the RCB vs CSK clash in IPL 2024. Match Preview Two teams with contrasting setups but a common goal of winning will collide in the could-be match of the season. With three teams (KKR, RR and SRH) qualified for the playoffs, both sides will battle for the remaining one spot. While Chennai sits in a more comfortable position to go through with 14 points from 13 matches, needing just a win (by any margin), the hosts RCB (12 points) not only need to win, but they have to do with a considerable margin to better CSK’s Net Run Rate (NRR). Besides, with thunderstorms likely to spoil the mood during the game, RCB fans would be praying to the Rain Gods to stay away. ALSO READ: BCCI approaches Gautam Gambhir for India’s head coach position - Reports Meanwhile, considering the English duo of Will Jacks and Reece Topley has returned home, Aussie all-rounder Glenn Maxwell might find a place in the playing XI for RCB. The touring CSK side is short of international stars, including match-winners Matheesha Pathirana, Mustafizur Rahman and Moeen Ali, with India seamer Deepak Chahar ruled out with an injury. Ajinkya Rahane’s poor form with the bat mounts pressure on Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who aims to guide his team to the playoff this season. All eyes, however, would be on ‘Thala’ MS Dhoni, who has scored 136 runs this season at a strike rate of a whopping 226.67. RCB’s star batter, Virat Kohli, is the leading run-scorer with 661 runs, striking at over 155. Head-to-Head and Weather Report Chennai leads Bengaluru 21-10 in the head-to-head tally in IPL, while the weather report suggests an 80% chance of thunderstorms from 8 PM IST onwards. Result Prediction – Considering form and the weather conditions that could churn down the overs, the team batting second could benefit. Of the two, the hosts RCB have the best chance to spoil Dhoni's swansong. Predicted Playing XIs of both teams – RCB - Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Mahipal Lomror, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Swapnil Singh, Karn Sharma, Lockie Ferguson and Mohammed Siraj CSK - Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Tushar Deshpande, Mitchell Santner/Richard Gleeson, Simarjeet Singh and Maheesh Theekshana

IPL 2024 gears up for showdown between MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli as playoff spot on line - Match Preview

Virat Kohli added another feather to his impressive hat on Saturday (May 18) as he became the first batter in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) to complete 3000 runs at a venue.&nbsp;Playing at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Virat hit two massive sixes in the third over of the match&nbsp;which&nbsp;saw him touch the magical figure.&nbsp;However, soon after he reached the milestone, the evening was spoiled by rain interruption&nbsp;with&nbsp;heavy showers coming down in the Karnataka capital.&nbsp;

<h2>Virat completes 3000&nbsp;runs</h2>

With a do-or-die contest&nbsp;taking place&nbsp;at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat was seen in buzzing form and he cleared his intentions from the start. On 2987 runs before the&nbsp;start&nbsp;of the contest, he reached the milestone on the third ball of Tushar Deshpande’s second over. With&nbsp;this&nbsp;he also stands with most runs in the record tally&nbsp;with&nbsp;Rohit Sharma sitting way 710 runs behind in the second position. Interestingly, former RCB man AB de Villiers sits third with 1960 runs, again at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.&nbsp;

<h3>Most runs at a venue in IPL</h3>

3005* V Kohli at Chinnaswamy

2295 Rohit Sharma at Wankhede

1960 AB de Villiers at Chinnaswamy

At the time of writing, RCB resumed their innings after rain had initially played spoilsport. After a 30-minute break in proceedings, RCB started at 31/0 after 3 overs. Virat Kohli was batting on 22 while Faf du Plessis was on 18.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-kohli-backs-rohit-in-bashing-impact-player-rule-says-entertainment-is-fine-but-its-kills-balance-722796">IPL 2024: Kohli backs Rohit in bashing ‘Impact Player’ rule, says entertainment is fine but its kills balance</a>

RCB need to win the match by 18 runs or more to qualify for the Playoffs of the IPL 2024 as they try to beat CSK for the race. RCB entered the match with 12 points from 13 matches while CSK had 14 points from the same number of matches. However, a win for RCB with 18 or more runs will see CDK condemned to fifth spot and RCB reach the Playoffs.

In case rain plays further spoilsport and the match gets abandoned, the points will be shared, which will result in CSK qualifying for the Playoffs with 15 points and thereby eliminating RCB while Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants’ elimination will also get confirmed.

Virat Kohli added another feather to his impressive hat on Saturday (May 18) as he became the first batter in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) to complete 3000 runs at a venue.

Virat Kohli added another feather to his impressive hat on Saturday (May 18) as he became the first batter in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) to complete 3000 runs at a venue. Playing at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Virat hit two massive sixes in the third over of the match which saw him touch the magical figure. However, soon after he reached the milestone, the evening was spoiled by rain interruption with heavy showers coming down in the Karnataka capital. Virat completes 3000 runs With a do-or-die contest taking place at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat was seen in buzzing form and he cleared his intentions from the start. On 2987 runs before the start of the contest, he reached the milestone on the third ball of Tushar Deshpande’s second over. With this he also stands with most runs in the record tally with Rohit Sharma sitting way 710 runs behind in the second position. Interestingly, former RCB man AB de Villiers sits third with 1960 runs, again at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Most runs at a venue in IPL 3005* V Kohli at Chinnaswamy 2295 Rohit Sharma at Wankhede 1960 AB de Villiers at Chinnaswamy At the time of writing, RCB resumed their innings after rain had initially played spoilsport. After a 30-minute break in proceedings, RCB started at 31/0 after 3 overs. Virat Kohli was batting on 22 while Faf du Plessis was on 18. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Kohli backs Rohit in bashing ‘Impact Player’ rule, says entertainment is fine but its kills balance RCB need to win the match by 18 runs or more to qualify for the Playoffs of the IPL 2024 as they try to beat CSK for the race. RCB entered the match with 12 points from 13 matches while CSK had 14 points from the same number of matches. However, a win for RCB with 18 or more runs will see CDK condemned to fifth spot and RCB reach the Playoffs. In case rain plays further spoilsport and the match gets abandoned, the points will be shared, which will result in CSK qualifying for the Playoffs with 15 points and thereby eliminating RCB while Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants’ elimination will also get confirmed.

IPL: Virat Kohli sets new heights at Chinnaswamy Stadium, becomes first batter to score 3000 runs

India and RCB legend Virat Kohli has backed his teammate Rohit Sharma in bashing the ‘Impact Player’ rule, saying it kills the balance between bat and ball. Kohli leads the run-scoring chart with over 600 runs in 13 contested matches this season, striking at over 155.

India and RCB legend Virat Kohli has backed his teammate Rohit Sharma in bashing the ‘Impact Player’ rule, saying it kills the balance between bat and ball. Kohli leads the run-scoring chart with over 600 runs in 13 contested matches this season, striking at over 155. Although he admitted that this season was slightly more exciting than previous editions, mostly because of that, the Indian legend pin-pointed the loopholes in this newest addition to the Indian Premier League. During an exclusive chat with Jio Cinema ahead of the marquee IPL 2024 clash between the RCB and CSK in Bengaluru, Kohli said he likes the idea of making this game a bit more entertaining by introducing such rules but rues that its impact is killing the balance. “I agree with Rohit. Entertainment is one aspect of the game, but there is no balance,” Kohli said on Jio Cinema. ALSO READ: ‘Biggest job in cricket but exhausting’ – Justin Langer on Team India’s head coach role Last month, former Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma was the first star figure to come out with his view on this new rule, saying it has reduced the importance of all-rounders in the team – a crucial aspect in any format. Besides, cricket legend and Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting also came hard on the Impact Player rule, saying it’s a nightmare for the coaches and the captains. “Bowlers are feeling like what they should do,” Kohli said. “We are playing a high level of cricket, and it should not be that dominant in my opinion. There is a beauty about having an equal balance between bat and ball,” he continued. ‘It helped a bit though’ While Kohli sounded sceptical about Impact Player rule’s future in the tournament, he admitted to making the most of it anyway. Like every team, his franchise also gets a chance to play an extra batter, and Kohli upped his game, playing at a strike rate of over 200 in the first six overs. “Not every team has a Bumrah (Jasprit) or the mystery of Rashid Khan,” he said. “I am telling you, with one extra batter, there is a reason I am playing with 200 plus strike rate in the Powerplays. I know there is a batsman waiting at No. 8 as well.” “I think it has disrupted the balance, and a lot of people are feeling this way not just me,” he added. Meanwhile, RCB needs to beat CSK to qualify for the IPL 2024 playoffs.

IPL 2024: Kohli backs Rohit in bashing ‘Impact Player’ rule, says entertainment is fine but it kills balance

Former India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain, Virat Kohli, has revealed his retirement plans, saying he would be away from the public limelight for a long time once he has decided to hang up his boots.

Former India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain, Virat Kohli, has revealed his retirement plans, saying he would be away from the public limelight for a long time once he has decided to hang up his boots. Kohli, 35, is perhaps in the last stretch of his international career with many regarding the upcoming T20 World Cup as his last hurrah in the shortest format of the game. Quizzed during an RCB promotional event about his retirement and what fuels his insatiable hunger for excellence, the Indian batter gave a nuanced answer. "It's quite simple. I think as a sportsman, we do have an end-date to our careers. So I am just working backwards. I don't want to finish my career thinking 'oh, what if I have done this on that particular day' because I can't keep going on and on forever. So it's just about not leaving any undone business behind and not have any regrets later, which I am sure I won't," said Kohli. "Once I am done, I will be gone, you won't see me for a while (smiles). So I want to give it everything I have till the time I play, and that's the only thing that keeps me going," he added. An evening celebrating friendships, brotherhood, comebacks and more, at the @rcbbarcafe! Some behind the scenes visuals from the team dinner last night on @bigbasket_com presents Bold Diaries.#PlayBold #ನಮ್ಮRCB #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/S0yC54UKby — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 16, 2024 × Also read | IPL 2024: Will there be reserve day for RCB vs CSK league match at Chinnaswamy? Run machine Kohli Despite being in his late thirties, Kohli is still able to give the youngsters run for their money in the fitness department. He currently leads the chart of top-scorers at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), having amasses 661 runs in only 13 innings at an enviable strike-rate of 155.16. Kohli's relentless nature of getting stuck in and taking his team alongside him is probably the reason why RCB have managed to win five matches on the bounce to be in playoff contention after a horrid start to the campaign. The weekend match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) could be the decisive game of the tournament. If RCB do manage to get a win, they can qualify for the top 4 and challenge for the first trophy in the franchise's history. (With inputs from agencies)

'You won't see me...': Ahead of crucial CSK tie, Virat Kohli drops retirement bomb

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month. The current Indian skipper has managed only 349 runs in 13 games at an average of 29.08. Out of 349, he scored 105* in Mumbai Indians (MI)'s 20-run home loss versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK) early in the tournament. Following his ton, he has struggled to get going, not even crossing the 40-run mark since then.

Moreover, Rohit has crossed the double-digit mark only twice in his last six outings for Hardik Pandya-led MI, who were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race this season. Speaking on Rohit's form, Ganguly said -- ahead of his side Delhi Capitals (DC) knockout clash versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in New Delhi on Tuesday (May 14) -- that Hitman is a 'big tournament player' who will do well in the upcoming T20 WC, in the West Indies and USA in June.

<h2>'Rohit plays well in big tournaments'</h2>

Talking to the reporters, Ganguly said, "India is a very good team. Rohit will play well in the World Cup. He plays well in big tournaments. At the big stage, he will be fine."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/strongest-contenders-to-lift-ipl-2024-trophy-harbhajan-singh-after-kkr-confirms-a-spot-in-qualifier-1-721295">'Strongest contenders to lift IPL 2024 trophy': Harbhajan Singh after KKR confirm spot in Qualifier 1</a>

Rohit has second-most runs by an Indian in the T20 WC history -- 963 in eight editions (after Virat Kohli's 1,143 -- the overall top run-getter). However, he hasn't dominated any of the previous editions. Nonetheless, he was in top gear in the last ICC event, i.e. the home ODI World Cup last year. Ending with 597 runs in 11 games, Rohit will be eager to replicate the same in the upcoming T20 WC.

Rohit will lead India in the mega event. Further, Ganguly has backed Kohli and Hitman to open for the Men in Blue. While Rohit is not in good touch, Kohli is the leading run-getter in IPL 2024 -- with 661 runs in 13 games, including 5 fifties and a ton.

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month.

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and BCCI chief, has opened up on Rohit Sharma's struggles in IPL 2024 with the upcoming T20 World Cup to be held next month. The current Indian skipper has managed only 349 runs in 13 games at an average of 29.08. Out of 349, he scored 105* in Mumbai Indians (MI)'s 20-run home loss versus Chennai Super Kings (CSK) early in the tournament. Following his ton, he has struggled to get going, not even crossing the 40-run mark since then. Moreover, Rohit has crossed the double-digit mark only twice in his last six outings for Hardik Pandya-led MI, who were the first team to bow out of the playoffs race this season. Speaking on Rohit's form, Ganguly said -- ahead of his side Delhi Capitals (DC) knockout clash versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in New Delhi on Tuesday (May 14) -- that Hitman is a 'big tournament player' who will do well in the upcoming T20 WC, in the West Indies and USA in June. 'Rohit plays well in big tournaments' Talking to the reporters, Ganguly said, "India is a very good team. Rohit will play well in the World Cup. He plays well in big tournaments. At the big stage, he will be fine." Also read: 'Strongest contenders to lift IPL 2024 trophy': Harbhajan Singh after KKR confirm spot in Qualifier 1 Rohit has second-most runs by an Indian in the T20 WC history -- 963 in eight editions (after Virat Kohli's 1,143 -- the overall top run-getter). However, he hasn't dominated any of the previous editions. Nonetheless, he was in top gear in the last ICC event, i.e. the home ODI World Cup last year. Ending with 597 runs in 11 games, Rohit will be eager to replicate the same in the upcoming T20 WC. Rohit will lead India in the mega event. Further, Ganguly has backed Kohli and Hitman to open for the Men in Blue. While Rohit is not in good touch, Kohli is the leading run-getter in IPL 2024 -- with 661 runs in 13 games, including 5 fifties and a ton.

‘Big tournament player’ Rohit Sharma will be fine in T20 WC, reckons ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly

Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli, the two biggest names in Indian cricket, are set to collide for the last time this season to determine who finishes ahead of each other in the IPL 2024 playoff race.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli, the two biggest names in Indian cricket, are set to collide for the last time this season to determine who finishes ahead of each other in the IPL 2024 playoff race. Bengaluru will host the marquee RCB vs CSK clash on Saturday (May 18), with the winner likely to seal the playoff spot. Given their position on the points table, CSK’s chances are prominent, but RCB could also push for a final-four finish with a win. Despite starting poorly this season, RCB’s win over Delhi Capitals did strengthen their chances of finishing in the top four, but they still have to depend on other team's results to walk through even if they beat CSK in the high-octane clash. However, with 14 points, CSK are placed in a better position, and if they beat RCB in the away clash, they will make it to playoffs. Speaking on this match between two South Indian giants, former Aussie legend Tom Moody said it’s still anyone’s game, backing RCB to make the most of their momentum. ALSO READ: Rahul Dravid unlikely to reapply for India’s head coach position – Reports “It's iconic for the entire IPL, truly. You've got two colossal names in cricket here in India and in world cricket-Dhoni and Kohli. They're both dominant figures, leaving a huge legacy wherever they've been. And the interesting thing is anything can still happen on that table,” Moody said to the broadcaster after RCB’s 47-run win over DC. Although he considers that still nine games are left before the four teams are decided for the playoffs, Moody is not ready to put a finger on either of the two teams yet. "After the weekend, I was assuming that a couple of results will sort of fall the way they should fall and then we'll have a clear idea who's going to end up in that top four. "Yet, it's still anyone's game. Any team could clinch a spot in that coveted top four," Moody continued. A cracker of a battle awaits MS Dhoni vs Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Mohammed Sirag, Rajat Patidar vs Ravindra Jadeja, and much more – such are the rivalries the fans are eager to watch. With players from both sides performing to the best of their abilities, trying to help their side win crucial games, watching Dhoni go against Kohli would be delightful for fans worldwide. Remaining uncertain on Dhoni’s IPL future, one may never know if this would be the last time both face off on a cricket field.

Kohli vs Dhoni in IPL 2024 - ‘It’s still anyone’s game,’ says Tom Moody as playoff race gets tighter

Mohammad Rizwan and Virat Kohli have shared an enjoyable space in brief outings in international cricket, and Pakistan star keeper-batter admits learning a lot from Kohli, adding he respects him a lot.

Mohammad Rizwan and Virat Kohli have shared an enjoyable space in brief outings in international cricket, and Pakistan star keeper-batter admits learning a lot from Kohli, adding he respects him a lot. Following Pakistan’s thumping win over Ireland in the second T20I in Dublin on Sunday (May 12), Rizwan admired the India legend. Rizwan won the Player of the Match award for helping Pakistan level the three-match series with his match-winning 75*. That unbeaten knock helped him get into the 50s average bracket in the T20Is – a rare feat. With Kohli being the only international cricketer to average above Rizwan, the presenter asked the Pakistan batter for his remarks on the same, to which he said, "We have learnt a lot of things from Virat Kohli; I respect him." 1️⃣2️⃣th Player of the Match award for @iMRizwanPak in T20Is - most for a Pakistan player in this format 🌟#IREvPAK | #BackTheBoysInGreen pic.twitter.com/HSl694gFMg — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) May 12, 2024 × During their first time playing against each other in a 2021 T20 World Cup tie in Dubai, both Kohli and Rizwan completed their respective fifties, but Rizwan’s came for a winning cause. After the game that Pakistan won by 10 wickets, breaking the World Cup jinx against India, Virat and Rizwan shared a light moment by hugging each other. Although they faced each other several times after that, the camaraderie has remained the same. ALSO READ: Babar Azam bags massive record in Pakistan’s series-levelling win against Ireland in 2nd T20I Meanwhile, India and Pakistan are set for a marquee face-off in the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York on June 9. The Asian giants are placed in Group A alongside Ireland, Canada and the tournament’s co-host USA. Pakistan return to winnings ways After losing the first T20I to Ireland in Dublin, Pakistan returned to winning ways by claiming a seven-wicket victory the other night. Pakistan bowled first, restricting the hosts to 193 for seven in 20 overs. Ace seamer Shaheen Afridi impressed everyone with his three wickets, and Abbas Afridi picked two, while Mohammad Amir and Naseem Shah bagged a wicket each. Skipper and opener Babar Azam might have registered a zero in the second game, but he surpassed several legends to become the captain with the most wins in men’s T20Is. Besides, Fakhar Zaman and Rizwan shared a 140-run stand for the third wicket before keeper-batter Azam Khan played a blinder to see his team home. While Fakhar got out on 78 off 40 balls, Rizwan remained unbeaten on 75, and Khan, coming in at five, bashed Irish bowlers for 30* off ten balls, including four sixes. The third and final T20I will take place at the same venue on Tuesday (May 14).

'I respect Kohli' - Rizwan wins hearts with warm take on India legend following 2nd T20I win against IRE

Pakistan men's cricket team captain in limited overs, Babar Azam has revealed that he attempts to learn from Indian batting stalwart, Virat Kohli, whenever they meet on the field. Babar and Kohli are regarded as two of the best batters in the white-ball format of their generation, with the latter having the record for the most ODI centuries.&nbsp;

Speaking ahead of the T20 World Cup where India will square off against Pakistan, Babar said he was happy with the comparison.&nbsp;

“When you are being compared to someone, it gives you happiness. I have tried to learn from him whenever I met him,” Babar said on the show ‘Showtime with Ramiz Raja’.

<h2>Will have plans against Virat: Babar</h2>

Kohli has an exceptional record against Pakistan, having scored&nbsp;488 runs in 10 games with an excellent average of 81.33. The two teams will meet on June 9 in&nbsp;New York&nbsp;with Babar revealing that the Men-in-Green will have plans against the former Indian captain.&nbsp;

"As a team, you always plan against different teams according to their strengths. We don't plan anything against only one player," said Babar.&nbsp;

"We plan for all 11 players. We don't know much about the conditions in New York and we will plan accordingly. He [Virat Kohli] is one of the best players and we will plan against him as well," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-west-indies-tighten-security-after-t20-world-cup-receive-terror-threat-718357">Cricket West Indies tightens security after T20 World Cup receive terror threat from North Pakistan</a>

In the 2022 T20 WC, both India and Pakistan were in the same group in the Super 10. The two Asian giants locked horns at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne where Kohli's unbeaten 82 off 49 balls, propelled Rohit Sharma-led Indian team to a memorable four-wicket win, on the last ball of the contest.&nbsp;

The Indian team will be arriving at the World Cup, straight after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) while the Pakistan outfit will have played a match T20I series against Ireland.&nbsp;

India T20 WC squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav,&nbsp;Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal,&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Pakistan T20 WC squad:&nbsp;To be announced&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Pakistan men's cricket team captain in limited overs, Babar Azam has revealed that he attempts to learn from Indian batting stalwart, Virat Kohli, whenever they meet on the field.

Pakistan men's cricket team captain in limited overs, Babar Azam has revealed that he attempts to learn from Indian batting stalwart, Virat Kohli, whenever they meet on the field. Babar and Kohli are regarded as two of the best batters in the white-ball format of their generation, with the latter having the record for the most ODI centuries. Speaking ahead of the T20 World Cup where India will square off against Pakistan, Babar said he was happy with the comparison. “When you are being compared to someone, it gives you happiness. I have tried to learn from him whenever I met him,” Babar said on the show ‘Showtime with Ramiz Raja’. Will have plans against Virat: Babar Kohli has an exceptional record against Pakistan, having scored 488 runs in 10 games with an excellent average of 81.33. The two teams will meet on June 9 in New York with Babar revealing that the Men-in-Green will have plans against the former Indian captain. "As a team, you always plan against different teams according to their strengths. We don't plan anything against only one player," said Babar. "We plan for all 11 players. We don't know much about the conditions in New York and we will plan accordingly. He [Virat Kohli] is one of the best players and we will plan against him as well," he added. Also read: Cricket West Indies tightens security after T20 World Cup receive terror threat from North Pakistan In the 2022 T20 WC, both India and Pakistan were in the same group in the Super 10. The two Asian giants locked horns at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne where Kohli's unbeaten 82 off 49 balls, propelled Rohit Sharma-led Indian team to a memorable four-wicket win, on the last ball of the contest. The Indian team will be arriving at the World Cup, straight after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) while the Pakistan outfit will have played a match T20I series against Ireland. India T20 WC squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan Pakistan T20 WC squad: To be announced (With inputs from agencies)

Babar Azam reveals what he looks forward to when meeting Virat Kohli

Pakistan captain Babar Azam completed a fifty (57 off 43 balls) against Ireland in the first T20I on Friday (May 10), equalling batting great Virat Kohli’s tally of most fifty-plus scores (38).

Pakistan captain Babar Azam completed a fifty (57 off 43 balls) against Ireland in the first T20I on Friday (May 10), equalling batting great Virat Kohli’s tally of most fifty-plus scores (38). That, however, failed to get them the win as the hosts registered their maiden T20I victory over Pakistan by five wickets in the first of the three-match series. Watch Video - IRELAND BEAT PAKISTAN!!! What an incredible series opener we've just witnessed! A historic victory for @cricketireland 🇮🇪👏👏👏 . .#IREvPAKonFanCode #IREvPAK #FanCode pic.twitter.com/prvSBt37L5 — FanCode (@FanCode) May 10, 2024 × While the former India skipper has scored 37 fifties and one hundred in this format, Babar has 35 half-centuries and three tons to his name. Current India captain Rohit Sharma (34), Pakistan keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan (27) and Australia legend David Warner (27) are the following players on the list. Incidentally, Virat and Babar’s highest score in T20Is is 122. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Shubman Gill-Sai Sudharsan run riot for GT with record 210-run opening stand against CSK Meanwhile, the Babar-led Pakistan side is currently on the UK Tour, where they will play seven T20Is – three against Ireland and four against England (starting May 22 in Leeds), while Kohli is busy plying his trade for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the ongoing IPL 2024. Ireland stunned Pakistan in Dublin Having beaten the Asian giants in the ODIs before – during the infamous 2007 World Cup match in the Caribbean, Ireland scripted history again by thrashing Pakistan in the T20Is for the first time in Dublin the other night. Winning the toss and sending the visitors to bat first, the hosts got the big wicket of Rizwan run out inside the powerplay. Saim Ayub and Babar stitched an 85-run stand for the second wicket before Gareth Delany removed the rookie opener on 45 off 29 balls. Babar departed soon after, while three wickets fell quickly, pushing Pakistan's back against the wall. However, Iftikhar Ahmed’s late cameo helped them score 182 for six in 20 overs. The experienced Irish openers, Andrew Balbirnie and captain Paul Stirling showed intent early on, but Pakistan stayed on the top with two early wickets. Harry Tector brought some stability as he, alongside Balbirnie, added 77 for the third wicket, keeping the home side alive in the chase. Late cameos from George Dockrell, Delany and Curtis Campher helped Ireland stay ahead during the fag end of the innings, but Balbirnie’s 77 was the highlight of the innings. With over ten needed off the final over, two fours off Campher’s bat helped Ireland script history as they went 1-0 up in the series. The second T20I will take place on Sunday (May 12) at the same venue.

Babar Azam equals Kohli’s record but Pakistan falter against Ireland in 1st T20I

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