The Chhattisgarh

Tag: IPL 2024

  • Odean Smith Recreates Suryakumar Yadav’s Iconic Catch In CPL 2024, Video Goes Viral – Watch | cricket news

    In the electrifying atmosphere of the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua, the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2024 kicked off with a thrilling encounter between the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots. While the match had its share of ups and downs, it was Odean Smith’s breathtaking catch that stole the spotlight, drawing immediate comparisons to Suryakumar Yadav’s iconic grab in the T20 World Cup 2024 final. Smith’s remarkable effort not only showcased his athleticism but also reminded cricket enthusiasts of the sheer brilliance that fielding can bring to the game.

    OMG, WHAT A CARIB CATCH! #CPL #CPL24 #ABFvSKNP #CricketPlayedLouder #BiggestPartyInSport #Carib pic.twitter.com/ovE44jKqHx

    — CPL T20 (@CPL) August 30, 2024

    Also Read: Can Joe Root Break Sachin Tendulkar’s Record Of Most Test Runs?

    A Shaky Start for the Falcons

    The match began with the Patriots winning the toss and opting to field. The Falcons, however, found themselves in trouble early on, losing Teddy Bishop in the second over. With the pressure mounting, it was up to Fakhar Zaman to steady the ship. Zaman, known for his aggressive style, played a counter-attacking knock that provided some much-needed momentum for the Falcons. His innings, though short-lived, was crucial in preventing a complete collapse.

    After Zaman’s dismissal, the Falcons’ innings hit a lull. The scoring rate plummeted, and they lost key wickets, including that of Sam Billings, who looked set to anchor the middle overs. Billings, with 18 off 14 balls, seemed ready to accelerate in the 14th over when he attempted a pick-up shot off a back-of-a-length delivery from Dominic Drakes.

    Odean Smith’s Moment of Brilliance

    As Billings’ shot took a top edge and seemed destined to sail over the backward square leg boundary, all eyes turned to Odean Smith. Positioned perfectly, Smith made the catch look effortless. However, realizing the momentum was carrying him over the boundary, Smith showed quick thinking. He released the ball just before stepping over the line and then deftly stepped back into play to complete the catch. This sequence of movements was reminiscent of Suryakumar Yadav’s stunning effort in the T20 World Cup 2024 final, where his extraordinary catch helped dismiss David Miller and propel India to a historic victory.

    Smith’s catch not only ended Billings’ stay at the crease but also injected new life into the Patriots’ fielding unit. His athleticism and presence of mind were lauded by commentators and fans alike, with many taking to social media to draw parallels between Smith’s catch and Suryakumar Yadav’s now-famous effort. The catch was a testament to the evolving standards of fielding in modern cricket, where every run saved or wicket taken can dramatically alter the course of the game.

    The Falcons Fight Back

    Despite the setback, the Falcons found an unlikely hero in 17-year-old Jewel Andrew. The young prodigy played with maturity beyond his years, crafting a brilliant 50 off 30 balls. His innings, combined with Fabian Allen’s supportive 24 off 17 balls, helped the Falcons reach a competitive total of 163/4 in their 20 overs.

    Andrew’s performance was a silver lining for the Falcons, who needed someone to step up in the absence of big contributions from their senior players. His innings was a blend of calm composure and calculated aggression, providing a blueprint for how to handle pressure in T20 cricket.

    A thrilling chase ensues

    As the Patriots began their chase, they were well aware of the challenge ahead. At the time of writing, they were stationed at 71/2 from 8 overs, with the match finely poised. The Falcons’ bowlers will need to bring their A-game to defend their total, especially with the memory of Smith’s stunning catch still fresh in everyone’s minds.

  • Who ended the fight between Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir? Amit Mishra Answers | Cricket News

    In the high-octane world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), emotions often run high, and rivalries can become intense. One such heated moment in IPL 2023 was the much-discussed confrontation between Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir. This incident, which captured the attention of cricket fans worldwide, has now taken an intriguing turn with former India leg-spinner Amit Mishra revealing key details about how the feud was resolved.

    RCB vs LSG (2023)

    Full fight between Virat Kohli and Amit Mishra Gautam Gambhir.. Here Virat Kohli owned Amit Mishra and LSG last year, that’s the reason he is blabbering about him in podcasts ____ pic.twitter.com/4CSHOCORVh

    — Atish_18 (@imVkohli_183) July 15, 2024

    Also Read: Meet Wives And Girlfriends Of Euro 2024 Champions Spain – In Pics

    The Incident: A Flashpoint in IPL 2023

    The confrontation between Kohli and Gambhir occurred during a tense match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). It began as a war of words involving Kohli and LSG’s Naveen-ul-Haq, with Mishra attempting to mediate. Tempers flared further during the customary post-match handshake, culminating in a heated exchange between Kohli and Gambhir, who is the mentor for LSG.

    Players and support staff from both teams had to step in to separate the two, highlighting the intensity of the situation. Fans and analysts speculated endlessly about the causes and implications of this clash, but the true story of its resolution remained under wraps—until now.

    Gautam Gambhir: The Peacemaker

    Amit Mishra, in a candid conversation on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube channel, unveiled that it was Gautam Gambhir who took the initiative to end the feud with Virat Kohli. Contrary to popular belief, it was not Kohli but Gambhir who showed a big heart and approached his former Delhi teammate to bury the hatchet.

    “I saw a good thing about Gautam,” Mishra shared. “Virat Kohli didn’t go towards him; Gautam went towards him. He went and asked, ‘How are you? How’s your family?’ So it was Gautam who ended the feud and not Kohli.” This revelation casts Gambhir in a new light, portraying him as the mature and bigger person in this scenario. Mishra’s account emphasizes Gambhir’s role in promoting peace and camaraderie, which is often overshadowed by the intense competitive spirit seen on the field.

    Virat Kohli: A Changed Man?

    In the same conversation, Mishra also touched upon how fame and success have influenced Virat Kohli. He contrasted Kohli’s current persona with the down-to-earth nature of Rohit Sharma, another Indian cricketing stalwart.

    “I won’t lie. As a cricketer, I respect him a lot, but I don’t share the same equation with him as I used to,” Mishra noted. “When you get fame and power, they think people are reaching out to them for a purpose. I have known Cheeku (Kohli) since he was 14… But there is a huge difference in the Cheeku I knew and Virat Kohli, the “captain.”

    Mishra’s comments highlight a common narrative in the world of sports, where athletes often undergo significant personal transformations as they rise to stardom. Kohli, who recently announced his retirement from T20I cricket after India’s victorious campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024, remains a respected figure but one whose relationships have evolved over time.

    The Aftermath: A New Beginning?

    The IPL 2024 season witnessed a transformed dynamic between Gambhir and Kohli. The two were seen interacting cordially during practice sessions and even sharing warm gestures before matches. This newfound camaraderie between the two former adversaries was a heartening sight for fans and a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship.

    Mishra’s revelations not only shed light on the resolution of the IPL 2023 feud but also offer a glimpse into the personal lives and evolving relationships of two of India’s cricketing icons. As the cricketing world moves forward, the story of Gambhir’s peace-making gesture serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and respect, both on and off the field.

  • Opinion: Should Virat Kohli continue to open the innings for India or move down to number 3 in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024? , Cricket News

    T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli’s batting position in the ongoing T20 World Cup has become a major talking point. The star batsman has shined at number 3 for more than a decade, but in this tournament, he has been deployed as an opener alongside Rohit Sharma. This decision has not yielded results yet, sparking debate among fans and pundits alike. Let’s delve into the arguments for and against Kohli opening in the T20 World Cup.

    Virat Kohli’s T20 World Cup 2024 Performance

    1 (5) vs Ireland

    4 (3) vs Pakistan

    0 (1) vs USA

    24 (24) vs Afghanistan

    Virat has had a poor run so far in the four matches in the ongoing edition of the T20 WC, where he has just managed 29 runs in four outings. Kohli struggled on the tricky New York pitch and registered a string of low scores – 1, 4, and 0. Many expected this to end on the Caribbean soil, but it didn’t change much for him. In the Super 8 match against Afghanistan, Kohli had another flop outing with a run-a-ball 24-run knock.

    Reasons why Virat Kohli should open

    1. Maximizing Batting Prowess: Opening allows Kohli to face more deliveries, potentially leading to a higher run tally. This is crucial considering his struggles in recent outings. Proponents argue that a familiarised opening role, like in IPL 2024 where he won the Orange Cap, can reignite his form.

    2. Aggressive Intent in Powerplay: Kohli’s strength lies in playing aggressive cricket. The opening partnership sets the tone for the innings, and Kohli’s attacking mindset can put the opposition on the back foot early on. This is especially important on sluggish pitches where a brisk start is vital.

    3. Accommodating a Flexible Middle Order: With Kohli opening, the middle order gains flexibility. Rishabh Pant’s explosive batting at number 3 has been a revelation, and the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube can play their natural game in the middle overs.

    Reasons Why Virat Kohli Should Bat At Number 3

    1. Disrupting a Proven Strategy: Historically, Kohli has thrived at number 3, anchoring the innings and building partnerships. A change in position can disrupt his rhythm and impact his batting confidence.

    2. Struggles as an Opener: Kohli’s recent form as an opener in the World Cup hasn’t been convincing. Scores of 1, 4, 0, and 24 have raised questions about his ability to adapt to the role seamlessly in high-pressure situations.

    3. Impact on Rohit Sharma: Opening alongside a struggling Kohli might put additional pressure on Rohit Sharma, another senior batsman. A struggling top order can leave the middle order exposed early on.

    Finding the Middle Ground: Can India Change The Batting Order According To The Pitch Conditions?

    Promote Kohli Up the Order Only on Flat Pitches: If the pitches become batting paradises later in the tournament, Kohli should stick to opening the innings. As we have seen in the IPL, he is very dangerous on good batting tracks and can make full use of the powerplay.

    Give Kohli a Short Leash: If his struggles as an opener continue, the team management might need to consider a change. A young talent like Yashasvi Jaiswal could be given an opportunity to showcase his skills.

    What’s My Take On Virat Kohli’s Batting Position

    Virat Kohli should continue to open the innings because he has been batting at number 3 for the last four or five World Cups, and we still haven’t won any of them. If India has decided to open with Virat Kohli, they should stick to it until the semi-finals or finals, wherever we reach. Now that Rishabh Pant looks settled at number 3, you don’t want to change the team combination against bigger opponents. All the upcoming matches will be against stronger teams, and now is not the time to experiment. Stick to this combination, as Virat is a match-winner who will eventually regain form. This gamble may prove to be a game-changer and could lead to a title win after 11 long years.

  • Kedar Jadhav Announces Retirement From All Forms Of Cricket In MS Dhoni Style | Cricket News

    Kedar Jadhav recently announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Monday. He shared a reel on Instagram featuring his memorable moments on the field, accompanied by the sad song “Zindagi Ke Safar Mein Guzar Jaate Hai Jo Makam,” similar to how MS Dhoni announced his retirement. Jadhav, who played 73 ODIs and 122 T20Is for India between November 2014 and February 2020, posted on Instagram, saying, “Thank you all for your love and support throughout my career. Consider me retired from all forms of cricket.”



    Kedar Jadhav’s memorable career

    Jadhav, whose last appearance for India was against New Zealand in an ODI in Auckland, debuted against Sri Lanka in Ranchi under the captaincy of Virat Kohli. A few months later, he marked his first century for India in an ODI against Zimbabwe, ending his career with 1389 runs at an average of 42.09, featuring six half-centuries and two centuries. His retirement follows two days after Dinesh Karthik’s exit.

    One of Jadhav’s memorable innings was his 120 off just 76 balls in Pune against England, where India chased down 351 runs. He and Kohli both scored centuries, forging a thrilling 200-run partnership, with Jadhav’s standout performance earning him the Player-of-the-Match award. He was also part of India’s 2019 World Cup squad, contributing crucially with a 52-run innings against West Indies.

    Jadhav rose to prominence during the 2013-14 Ranji Trophy, finishing as the highest run-scorer of the season with 1223 runs at an average of 87.35, including six half-centuries and two fifties, with a best of 204. His outstanding form propelled Maharashtra to the final, although they lost to Karnataka.

    Kedarnath’s IPL Career

    In the IPL, Jadhav debuted with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) and played for Chennai Super Kings, Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Across 93 IPL matches, he accumulated 1196 runs, including four half-centuries.

  • ‘MS Dhoni told me…’, pitch invader reveals chat with MS Dhoni during IPL 2024 | Cricket News

    In the realm of cricket, moments of genuine human connection often overshadow even the most thrilling displays of athleticism. Such was the case during the IPL 2024 clash between the Gujarat Titans (GT) and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium. Amidst the fierce competition, a heartwarming exchange unfolded, showcasing the compassionate spirit of none other than the legendary MS Dhoni.

    The fan who invaded the pitch to meet MS Dhoni had breathing issues.

    MS when the fan tells him this – “I will take care of your surgery. Nothing will happen to you, don’t worry. I won’t let anything happen to you”. __pic.twitter.com/9uMwMktBxZ

    — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 29, 2024

    The Unexpected Encounter

    As the match between GT and CSK reached a crescendo, the spotlight shifted from the players to an unexpected protagonist: a devoted fan named Jaykumar Jani. Hailing from Rabarika village in Bhavnagar district, Jani seized a fleeting opportunity to realise his dream of meeting his idol, MS Dhoni. Disregarding security protocols, Jani invaded the pitch with unwavering determination, his sole mission: to express his admiration for the revered former Indian captain.

    Dhoni’s Grace Under Pressure

    In a moment that transcended the boundaries of the game, Jani approached Dhoni, his heart brimming with reverence. Despite the intensity of the match and the urgency of the situation, Dhoni’s response was a testament to his grace under pressure. With characteristic composure and humor, Dhoni embraced the fan, offering solace amidst the chaos.

    Hope

    What began as a simple interaction between a fan and his idol soon unfolded into a touching display of empathy and kindness. Upon learning of Jani’s health struggles, Dhoni’s compassion shone brightly. In a heartfelt gesture, Dhoni assured Jani that his medical expenses would be taken care of, offering not just financial support but also a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.

    The Power of Connection

    As Jani was escorted off the field, Dhoni’s gesture reverberated far beyond the confines of the stadium. The exchange captured the essence of sportsmanship, highlighting the profound connection between players and fans. In a world often defined by rivalry and competition, Dhoni’s act of generosity served as a reminder of the enduring power of human connection.

    Looking Ahead

    As the IPL season draws to a close, speculation looms regarding Dhoni’s future in the league. Despite rumors of retirement and injury concerns, Dhoni’s impact transcends the boundaries of the pitch. Whether he returns to the field or embarks on a new chapter, one thing remains certain: MS Dhoni’s legacy extends far beyond his achievements on the cricket field.

  • Andre Russell, Ananya Pandey’s Dance To Celebrate KKR’s IPL 2024 Triumph Goes Viral – Watch | Cricket News

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 final witnessed a spectacular performance from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), culminating in a joyous celebration led by the dynamic Andre Russell. Following their decisive victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Russell’s exuberant dance to Shah Rukh Khan’s hit song “Lutt Putt Gaya” alongside Bollywood actress Ananya Pandey became the talk of the town.

    Andre Russell enjoying “Lutt Putt Gaya” Song during the IPL winning Party. __ pic.twitter.com/Q8sg53FuFi — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 27, 2024

    Also Read: Hardik Pandya’s Love Life: A Glimpse Into His Past Relationships – In Pics

    KKR’s Dominant Performance in the IPL 2024 Final

    KKR entered the final as favorites, and they lived up to the hype with a commanding display at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Electing to bowl first, KKR’s bowlers, led by the indomitable Andre Russell, dismantled SRH for a paltry 113 runs. Russell’s spell of 3/19 in 2.3 overs was pivotal, removing key batsmen Aiden Markram, Abdul Samad, and Pat Cummins, thereby crippling SRH’s batting lineup.

    Shreyas Iyer, KKR’s captain, praised his team’s flawless performance throughout the season. “Absolutely comprehensive. This is what we demanded from the team and every individual. They stood up to the right occasion and the feeling is hard to express,” Iyer remarked post-match, highlighting the squad’s unwavering commitment and excellence.

    Venkatesh Iyer Steals the Show with the Bat

    Chasing a modest target of 114, KKR’s Venkatesh Iyer made short work of the SRH bowlers. His blistering knock of 52* off 26 balls ensured KKR’s victory was never in doubt, as they achieved the target in just 10.3 overs. Iyer’s half-century was a testament to his consistency and aggressive approach, making him a crucial player in KKR’s batting lineup this season.

    Andre Russell: The Star of the Night

    Andre Russell’s all-round performance was instrumental in KKR’s triumph. Finishing the season as one of the top wicket-takers, Russell’s 19 wickets from 14 matches came at an impressive average of 15.52. His batting exploits were equally noteworthy, amassing 222 runs at a strike rate of 185, showcasing his ability to turn games around single-handedly.

    Russell’s contributions in the final and throughout the season were celebrated in grand fashion. The viral video of him dancing to “Lutt Putt Gaya” with Ananya Pandey captured the joyous mood of the KKR camp. The West Indies all-rounder’s love for the song has been evident, having previously shared videos of himself singing it. This time, his post-victory dance added an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the celebrations.

  • Hardik Pandya, Natasa Stankovic Goes On Vacation Amid Divorce Rumours: Report | Cricket News

    In a dramatic turn of events, Hardik Pandya, India’s star all-rounder, has found himself at the center of swirling divorce rumours while also grappling with a tough IPL season. As speculations about his personal life with wife Natasa Stankovic intensify, Hardik has reportedly jetted off to an undisclosed overseas location for a much-needed break before joining the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 in New York.

    Also Read: IPL 2024: From Virat Kohli’s Orange Cap To Harshal Patel’s Purple Cap, Who Won What – In Pics

    Professional Turmoil and Criticism

    Hardik Pandya’s leadership tenure with Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024 was nothing short of tumultuous. The decision to appoint him as the captain, replacing Rohit Sharma, was met with widespread disapproval from fans. Throughout the season, Hardik faced relentless criticism, with jeers greeting him at every match. The weight of expectations and the negative atmosphere affected his performance significantly, contributing to Mumbai Indians’ disappointing finish at the bottom of the standings.

    Mark Boucher, Mumbai Indians’ coach, commented on the situation, stating, “A lot of the stuff that he’s going through is, personally, maybe a little uncalled for. It’ll certainly be a learning curve for Hardik as his growth in leadership. While times are tough now, a couple of things will pass and it’ll make him a tougher leader and it’ll certainly grow him in the role as well.”

    Personal Life Under Scrutiny

    As Hardik grapples with professional setbacks, his personal life has been thrust into the spotlight. Rumours of a split with Natasa Stankovic, his wife, have been rampant. The couple, who have a young son, have not made any public statements regarding their relationship status, leaving fans and media speculating.

    Hardik’s absence from the initial batch of players departing for the T20 World Cup added fuel to the fire. Instead of boarding the plane with his teammates, he opted for a brief vacation abroad, reportedly in London for a training stint before rejoining the national team in New York. This move has only intensified the rumours about his marital status.

    Hardik’s Road to Redemption

    Despite the storm of controversy and criticism, Hardik Pandya remains a crucial figure for India’s T20 World Cup campaign. As the vice-captain, his role is pivotal in the team’s strategy and morale. His brief hiatus is seen as an attempt to rejuvenate himself after a taxing IPL season.

    The Indian cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma and including key players like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rishabh Pant, has already commenced their journey to the USA. The squad’s first practice session in New York will be crucial in setting the tone for their World Cup campaign. Hardik’s timely arrival and state of mind will be critical in determining his and the team’s performance.

    What Lies Ahead for Hardik Pandya?

    The coming weeks will be decisive for Hardik Pandya. On one hand, his performance in the T20 World Cup could silence critics and reaffirm his position as one of India’s top all-rounders. On the other hand, the resolution of his personal issues will be keenly watched by fans and the media alike.

    As Hardik gears up to join his teammates, the focus will be on his ability to compartmentalize his personal struggles and channel his energy into his game. The support of his teammates and the guidance of the coaching staff will play a crucial role in his journey ahead.

  • WATCH: Kaviya Maran Breaks Down Into Tears As SRH Lose IPL 2024 Final Against KKR | Cricket News

    An all-round performance from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), including fiery spells by Mitchell Starc and Andre Russell and a half-century by Venkatesh Iyer, helped the Purple and Gold side secure their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title and their first in 10 years as they defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by eight wickets on Sunday at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium.

    Sunrisers, which set the T20 cricketing world on fire with their fierce hitting, sky-high run-rates, largely due to the opening pair of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma, got the taste of its own medicine. In a battle of two big buys, the Australian stars Cummins (20.5 crores for SRH) and Starc (24.75 crores for KKR), it was the latter who prevailed.

    During the IPL 2024 final at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) owner Kavya Maran was spotted in tears. A video circulating on social media shows Kavya visibly upset in the stands as the Orange Army struggled against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

    watch the video here…

    #IPL2O24 #IPLFinal2024 #KavyaMaran#KnightRiders #SunrisersHyderabad pic.twitter.com/eAjGOas2lP Hindi States (@HindiStates) May 26, 2024

    During the run-chase of 114 runs, the opening pair of Sunil Narine and Rahmanullah Gurbaz could not put on a lengthy partnership. Narine was dismissed for just six runs in two balls, with SRH skipper Pat Cummins getting his wicket. Shahbaz Ahmed took a fine catch. KKR was 11/1 in 1.2 overs.

    Venkatesh Iyer joined Gurbaz and took the run-chase forward. The left-handed Venkatesh started Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s third over with a four, six and then another six. 20 runs came in the over.

    With a boundary on delivery by Cummins, Gurbaz helped KKR reach the 50-run mark in 4.1 overs. The final over of the powerplay by T Natrajan also proved to be a run-fest, with Iyer getting three fours and a six over deep square leg in his over, which gave a total of 20 runs to KKR.

    At the end of the powerplay after six overs, KKR was 72/1, with Iyer (40*) and Gurbaz (21*) unbeaten. Kolkata marched towards the winning total with their brutal hitting, giving SRH a taste of their own medicine. With a six by Iyer over long-off, KKR crossed the 100-run mark in 8.4 overs.

    However, Gurbaz lost his wickets, trapped leg-before wicket by Shahbaz Ahmed for 39 in 32 balls, with five fours and two sixes. KKR was 102/2 in 8.5 overs. Skipper Shreyas Iyer was next up and he started by launching a reverse sweep into the boundary.

    KKR completed the run-chase, making 114/2 in 10.3 overs, with Venkatesh (52* in 26 balls, with four boundaries and three sixes) and Shreyas (6* in three balls, with a four) unbeaten. Pat Cummins and Shahbaz Ahmed got a wicket each.

    Earlier, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) quicks made short work of the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) forcing the Pat Cummins side to unfold on a score of 113 in the title clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 on Sunday here at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

    On a night with clouds hovering over Chepauk, KKR pacers inflicted carnage on a red soil surface which offered more bounce for the speedsters. It all started with Mitchell Starc putting on an exhibition with the new ball to put Hyderabad on the back foot through his opening spell, returning with a figure of 2-14 while Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy combined well in the middle phase to pile the misery with Russell finishing with three wickets in just 2.3 overs, conceding 19.

    Put to bat first, Starc with an outstanding opening over dimmed SRH openers’ hopes of forming a strong partnership. The Aussie pacer, who was acquired by KKR for a whopping price of Rs 24.75 crores, becoming the most expensive player of the tournament’s history, gave SRH a big blow as he bowled a top-notch delivery to remove opener Abhishek Sharma for two in the first over of the innings.

    The right-arm fast-medium Vaibhav Arora piled more misery on SRH as he dismissed Travis Head for a duck.

    SRH was blown away by Starc’s inswingers as the pacer delivered a terrific delivery which Rahul Tripathi mistimed to hand a catch to Ramandeep Singh at the mid-wicket. After three dismissals Aiden Markram and Nitish Reddy then held the charge to take SRH past 40/3 after 6 overs. Markram then opened his hands and cracked 17 off Vaibhav’s over, slamming back-to-back two boundaries.

    Harshit Rana then bagged his first wicket of the night, removing Nitish Reddy for 13 in the 7th over. After some superb stuff from the KKR pacers, captain Shreyas Iyer introduced spin by giving the bowl to Sunil Narine, who kept the run flow in check. Andre Russell came into the attack and got a wicket of set batter Markram for 20 and in his next over he removed Abdul Samad for 4.

    Harshit then dismissed Heinrich Klaasen for 16 and the last pure batter of SRH also departed leaving Hyderabad’s hope of scoring a big total in a ditch. This was the second-lowest score at the fall of the 7th wicket in an IPL final.

    Pat Cummins kept piling runs and rotating strikes, however, the captain failed to guide his team to a big total as Russell bagged the last wicket bundling out SRH for 113 in 18.3. Brief score: Sunrisers Hyderabad 18.3 (Pat Cummins 24, Aiden Markram 20; Andre Russell 3-19) vs Kolkata Knight Riders.

  • Shah Rukh Khan’s bold move, blank cheque offered to Gautam Gambhir amid BCCI’s pursuit for Team India’s coaching role: Report | Cricket News

    The iconic Eden Gardens erupted in jubilation as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinched their third IPL title, defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a nail-biting final on Sunday. Amidst deafening roars from the packed stands, the Shah Rukh Khan-owned franchise etched their name in IPL folklore once again, adding another glorious chapter to their storied legacy.

    Also Read: Virat Kohli Extends Break After IPL 2024, Could Miss Team India’s T20 World Cup Warm-up Game

    Gambhir’s Midas Touch

    Much of KKR’s success can be attributed to the tactical genius of mentor Gautam Gambhir. The former Indian opener, who led KKR to their previous two IPL triumphs, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the team’s ethos. His calm demeanor and astute decision-making proved invaluable throughout the tournament, culminating in a well-deserved victory.

    Rinku Singh: The Unlikely Hero

    While star performers like Venkatesh Iyer and Nitish Rana played their part, it was the unheralded Rinku Singh who truly stole the show. With KKR teetering at 89/5 in their pursuit of 174, the left-hander displayed nerves of steel, smashing an unbeaten 42 off just 28 deliveries to guide his team home.

    Cummins’ Valiant Effort in Vain

    For SRH, Pat Cummins led from the front, both with the ball and the bat. The Australian spearhead claimed three crucial wickets before contributing a blistering 33 off just 18 balls. However, his efforts ultimately fell short as KKR held their nerve in the closing stages.

    Shah Rukh’s Unbridled Passion

    As the winning runs were scored, the celebrations reached a crescendo, with Shah Rukh Khan leading the charge. The Bollywood superstar, known for his unwavering passion for the sport, was seen embracing Gambhir and the players, his joy evident for all to see. The victory not only cemented KKR’s status as one of the most successful IPL franchises but also underscored Shah Rukh’s deep commitment to the team.

    Tactical Masterclass from Gambhir

    Gautam Gambhir’s influence on KKR’s fortunes cannot be overstated. From his shrewd team selections to his calculated bowling changes, the former India opener displayed a tactical acumen that kept his side ahead of the game. His ability to inspire and motivate his players was equally vital, as evidenced by the team’s resilience in the face of adversity.

  • IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu’s savage reminder to RCB after playoff heartbreak | Cricket News

    As the curtains fell on Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) IPL 2024 campaign, former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu didn’t hold back in reminding them where true glory lies. In a savage Instagram post, Rayudu took a playful jab at RCB’s playoff exit, sharing a video of Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) players celebrating their fifth IPL title triumph with a cheeky caption: “Just a gentle reminder from the 5-time champions . Sometimes a gentle reminder is required.”

    Ambati Rayudu’s Instagram post. pic.twitter.com/fsMQloTyyI — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 23, 2024

    Also Read: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals Qualifier 2 IPL 2024 LIVE Streaming Details: Timings, Telecast Date, When And Where To Watch SRH vs RR Qualifier 2 In India Online And On TV Channel?

    Showdown at the Narendra Modi Stadium

    The drama unfolded at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where RCB locked horns with the Rajasthan Royals in a do-or-die Eliminator clash. Despite entering the match on the back of a six-game winning streak, the Bengaluru-based franchise faltered when it mattered most.

    Batting Woes Haunt RCB

    After being put in to bat first, RCB’s batters failed to construct a commanding total. Virat Kohli (34), Rajat Patidar (33), and Mahipal Lomror (31) got starts but couldn’t convert them into substantial scores. RCB eventually mustered 172/8 from their 20 overs, a target that proved inadequate against the resilient Royals.

    Rayudu’s Cheeky Reminder

    As RCB’s dream of clinching their maiden IPL title shattered, Rayudu seized the opportunity to remind them of CSK’s sustained dominance. His Instagram post, featuring CSK’s title-winning celebrations, served as a subtle jibe, implying that true greatness lies in consistent performances and trophy-winning pedigree.

    Rayudu’s Words Cut Deep

    Rayudu’s comments during a post-match show further rubbed salt into RCB’s wounds. “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 ,” he remarked.

    Targeting RCB’s lack of Indian talent

    Not one to mince words, Rayudu also criticized RCB’s over-reliance on foreign recruits, suggesting they lack faith in Indian talent. “They need to show more faith in Indians, especially in Indian talent. I don’t think in the past 16 years any Indian batter apart from Virat Kohli has scored more than 1000 runs, and Virat is at 8000. That shows that you don ‘t have any confidence in Indian talent,” he added.