Cricket

Former South African captain AB de Villiers has raised concerns about Hardik Pandya's captaincy approach at Mumbai Indians, suggesting that Pandya's ego-driven style may not be suitable for a team with experienced players.De Villiers, who played alongside Pandya at Royal Challengers Bangalore, believes that Pandya's leadership style, which he described as "bravado" and "ego-driven," may have worked well with the relatively inexperienced squad of Gujarat Titans, but it could be less effective with the more experienced Mumbai Indians team."I don't think how he walks on the field is always genuine, but he has decided that is his way of captaincy," de Villiers said on his YouTube channel. "Almost like MS. Cool, calm, collective, always got your chest out. But when you play with a lot of experienced players, guys who have been around for ages... They don't buy into that."De Villiers' comments come amid reports that senior players at Mumbai Indians have expressed concerns about Pandya's captaincy style, which they believe has led to a decline in the team's morale during the IPL season.According to an Indian Express report, senior players Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav held a meeting following a loss in which they expressed their concerns about Pandya's leadership. Individual meetings were also held to determine the underlying problem.A Mumbai Indians official attributed the team's struggles this season to the transitional phase that they are in, following the departure of long-time captain Rohit Sharma. "These are regular teething problems for a team that sees leadership change. This happens in sports all the time," the official said.It remains to be seen whether Pandya will adjust his captaincy style in response to the concerns raised by senior players. Mumbai Indians have struggled in recent seasons, finishing fifth in 2021, tenth in 2022, and ninth in 2023. They are currently fourth in the IPL standings this season, but their playoff hopes are hanging in the balance.

Suryakumar Yadav's 'Supla' Shot: A Masterclass for Mumbai Indians TeammatesThe 'supla' shot, a paddle to fine leg off full-length deliveries, has become a signature move for South African legend AB de Villiers. Now, Mumbai Indians' (MI) star Suryakumar Yadav is taking the shot to new heights with his exceptional big-hitting skills. And he's not keeping his knowledge to himself, as he's eager to share the technique with his MI teammates.In a recent video posted by MI on social media, Yadav can be seen teaching the 'supla' shot to South African batter Dewald Brevis during a training session at the Wankhede Stadium. "Out of 10 times, 3 times you will connect, seven times you will not," Yadav advises Brevis, emphasizing the importance of practice and persistence.Yadav's willingness to share his expertise highlights his commitment to team success. Despite his own impressive performances this season, with 176 runs in 7 matches at a strike rate of 170.87, he recognizes the value of collective improvement.The 'supla' shot is particularly effective against fast bowlers, as it allows the batter to generate power and precision even on full-length deliveries. Yadav's mastery of the shot has made him one of the most dangerous batsmen in the world, and his teammates are eager to learn from his experience.As MI prepares for their upcoming match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Yadav's guidance could prove invaluable. The five-time champions have struggled this season, winning only three of their first 10 matches. However, with Yadav's leadership and the team's newfound knowledge of the 'supla' shot, they hope to turn their fortunes around and make a late push for the playoffs.

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers has come to the defense of Indian batter Virat Kohli, criticizing "data-driven pundits" who have been criticizing Kohli's strike rate in the Indian Premier League (IPL).De Villiers, who played alongside Kohli for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), praised Kohli as one of the greatest players to ever play the game. He said that Kohli's role in the RCB team is to play a certain way, and that he has been "incredible" in that role."Virat Kohli, catching criticism about his strike rate. It's been going on for way too long and I am sort of fed up with that now. I'm frustrated to say the least. This guy is one of the best players to ever play the game of cricket. He's incredible in the IPL, he plays a certain role for RCB, and I've pretty much had enough of data-driven pundits who keep criticizing this man. When you don't really have knowledge of the game. How many games of cricket have you played, how many IPL hundreds have you scored?," De Villiers said on his official YouTube channel.Kohli has been in good form in the IPL this season, scoring 500 runs at a strike rate of 147.49 in 10 matches. He has hit 46 fours and 20 sixes.In RCB's previous match against Gujarat Titans, Kohli scored a quick-fire 70* to help his team to victory. He also achieved a landmark feat during the match, becoming the second player to score 24 half-centuries while chasing a target in the IPL.De Villiers' comments come after Kohli has been criticized by some for his relatively low strike rate in the IPL. However, De Villiers believes that Kohli's strike rate is not a fair measure of his contribution to the team."I think it's important to look at the context of the game. What is the team's strategy? What is the player's role in the team? And what is the player's strengths and weaknesses?," De Villiers said."In Virat's case, he is a player who is very good at playing the anchor role. He can come in and stabilize the innings, and he can also accelerate when needed. He is also a very good fielder and a great leader. So, I think it's important to look at all of these factors when evaluating a player's performance," De Villiers added.

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers has come to the defense of Indian batsman Virat Kohli, calling him one of the greatest players in history and criticizing "data-driven pundits" for their criticism of Kohli's strike rate.In a video posted on his official YouTube channel, de Villiers expressed his frustration with the ongoing criticism of Kohli's strike rate, particularly in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He argued that Kohli's role in the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) team is to play a stabilizing role and that his strike rate should not be the sole measure of his performance."Virat Kohli, catching criticism about his strike rate. It's been going on for way too long and I am sort of fed up with that now. I'm frustrated to say the least. This guy is one of the best players to ever play the game of cricket. He's incredible in the IPL, he plays a certain role for RCB, and I've pretty much had enough of data-driven pundits who keep criticizing this man. When you don't really have knowledge of the game. How many games of cricket have you played, how many IPL hundreds have you scored?," de Villiers said.Kohli's recent performances in the IPL have silenced some of his critics. In the last game between RCB and Gujarat Titans (GT), Kohli made an impression with his blistering 70*. He was a major factor in Bengaluru's victory and dismissed the recent discussion regarding his strike rate.During the game, Kohli achieved a landmark feat during RCB's clash against GT. He now stands second in the list of players with the most half-centuries while chasing a target, with 24 scores of fifty or above. He is only behind David Warner, who has 35 half-centuries while chasing.The 35-year-old also tied Warner's record for the most IPL seasons with 500 or more runs. In an IPL season, Warner and Kohli have both scored 500 runs or more seven times.Kohli's performances in the IPL have been a reminder of his class and ability. Despite the criticism he has faced, he remains one of the most respected and feared batsmen in the world.

Legendary South African cricketer AB De Villiers, a cornerstone of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise from 2011 to 2021, remains deeply connected to the team. Despite being on vacation in Mauritius, De Villiers recently showcased his unwavering support for RCB.In a heartwarming family vlog posted on social media, De Villiers captured the breathtaking scenery of Mauritius while on a high-speed boat ride. Amidst the excitement, he couldn't resist belting out RCB's iconic chant, "Ee sala cup namde," which translates to "This year, the cup will be ours."De Villiers' unwavering loyalty to RCB extends beyond his on-field contributions. He has consistently defended his former teammate Virat Kohli, who has faced criticism for his approach and strike rate. In a recent YouTube video, De Villiers expressed his frustration with the constant scrutiny, reminding everyone that Kohli is the highest run-scorer in IPL 2024."I am fed up and frustrated with the criticism about Virat's strike rate," De Villiers said. "He's one of the best to ever play the game, and he's been incredible in the IPL. He plays a specific role for RCB, and I've had enough of these data-driven pundits who criticize him without understanding the game."De Villiers emphasized that Kohli's strike rate this season has been even better than his record-breaking 2016 campaign. He urged Kohli to continue playing his natural game, stating, "Virat, keep playing like you are."De Villiers' unwavering support for RCB and his defense of Kohli highlight the enduring bonds he has forged during his time with the franchise. His passion for the team and his belief in his former teammates continue to inspire fans and demonstrate the enduring legacy he has left on the IPL.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are poised to make history as they prepare for their 250th Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday. This milestone marks a significant chapter in the franchise's journey, characterized by both triumphs and setbacks.Despite not yet claiming an IPL title, RCB has etched its name in the league's annals. The team has reached the finals three times (2009, 2011, and 2016) and the final four stage five more times. Their dedicated fanbase remains unwavering, despite the elusive championship.RCB's success has been built on the brilliance of its star players. Virat Kohli, the franchise's leading run-scorer, has amassed 7,642 runs with eight centuries and 52 fifties. Spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, the former RCB stalwart, holds the record for most wickets (139).Over the years, RCB has provided fans with unforgettable moments. AB de Villiers' rescue acts and 360-degree hitting, Chris Gayle's monstrous sixes, and Virat Kohli's record-breaking 2016 season are just a few examples.The current RCB squad, led by Faf du Plessis, features a blend of experience and youth. The team will be desperate for a victory against SRH, having suffered six consecutive losses. SRH, on the other hand, sits in third place with five wins and two losses.As RCB embarks on its 250th IPL match, the franchise looks to the future with optimism. With a talented roster and a passionate fanbase, they aim to break the title drought and etch their name in IPL history.

MS Dhoni, the legendary former Chennai Super Kings captain, has defied the aging process with his exceptional batting performances in the ongoing IPL season. Despite being 42 years old, Dhoni has showcased his mastery by dismantling opposition bowlers and delivering breathtaking cameos to provide a late flourish for CSK while batting lower down the order.Dhoni's batting prowess has left many in awe, including former South Africa captain AB de Villiers. De Villiers believes that Dhoni's form warrants a promotion up the order in the upcoming games, which would also benefit CSK."Stats like these, it's very difficult for me to agree with that. 28 not out off 9, 20 no off 4... Look at all the not outs, it's ridiculous. At what point do we think that maybe he is in good enough form to maybe just go to number 5 or 6. I'm not saying go and bat at number 3 but just give yourself a few more deliveries. You are so destructive as a batter and you win games for CSK, you have done so for many many years. I think everyone would love to see him bat a little bit higher," De Villiers said on his YouTube channel.De Villiers emphasized that despite serving the team for so long, Dhoni remains CSK's most destructive player. "I would say over anything after over 12 to 14 somewhere their wicket falls, no matter if they one down or five down, you should go in, maybe they should do a strategy like that. I think it will be very effective for CSK. He is the most destructive player in the team after all these years. I think he is the best finisher in the entire IPL at the moment," he added.Dhoni's exceptional batting performances have not only impressed De Villiers but have also raised questions about his batting position. With his ability to win games for CSK, many believe that he should be promoted up the order to maximize his impact on the team's performance.

Former South African and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) cricketer AB de Villiers has sparked a light-hearted banter with former New Zealand and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder Scott Styris over the latter's perceived jinx on RCB's fortunes in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.RCB has endured a dismal start to the season, languishing at the bottom of the table with just two points from seven games. Styris, who has been spotted wearing the RCB jersey on match days, has become an unwitting target of blame for the team's struggles.In a tongue-in-cheek comment on Styris' social media post, De Villiers urged him to "stop wearing that shirt immediately!!!!" Styris, however, responded with a challenge, offering to give up the RCB jersey if De Villiers agreed to wear a CSK shirt once."I said I would wear the shirt. It has been a bad omen. I am a bad mascot for RCB, which is pleasing from my perspective," Styris said. "So I am prepared to put out a challenge back to AB de Villiers because he says it's time for me to stop wearing the shirt. I will stop wearing the shirt for RCB matches moving forward if De Villiers wears the CSK shirt once."Former England captain Eoin Morgan, who was present during the exchange, agreed that Styris' counter-challenge was "fair."RCB's latest setback came against Sunrisers Hyderabad, who set a new IPL record for the highest total, amassing 287-3 on Monday. The match also witnessed the highest aggregate for a T20 game, with a combined total of 549 runs.Despite valiant efforts from Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and Dinesh Karthik, RCB fell short by 25 runs, resulting in their sixth defeat of the season.The banter between De Villiers and Styris has provided a moment of levity amidst RCB's struggles. Whether or not De Villiers accepts Styris' challenge remains to be seen, but it is clear that the former South African star is not taking the team's poor form lightly.

Virat Kohli's unwavering commitment to fitness has not only transformed his own game but has also revolutionized Indian cricket, according to former England captain Kevin Pietersen. Pietersen, who witnessed Kohli's brilliance firsthand during his commentary stint in IPL 2024, believes that Kohli's influence has turned Indian cricketers into exceptional athletes.Kohli's dedication to his craft is evident in his rigorous training regimen and meticulous diet. He has set a new standard for fitness in the sport, inspiring his teammates to follow suit. This transformation has played a pivotal role in India's remarkable turnaround in recent years.Pietersen emphasized the importance of Kohli's inclusion in the Indian team for the upcoming T20 World Cup. He believes that Kohli's presence would have a positive impact on the team, regardless of his individual performances.Kohli's recent comments, where he asserted his desire to contribute actively to the game, have sparked a debate about his future in T20 cricket. Pietersen believes that Kohli still possesses the skills to excel in the format and that his experience and leadership would be invaluable to the Indian team.South African cricketing icon AB de Villiers, who played alongside Kohli at RCB, also expressed his admiration for the Indian batting stalwart. De Villiers praised Kohli's determination and ability to keep his team in the game, even when the odds are stacked against them.Kohli's commitment to fitness and his unwavering desire to be the best have set a new benchmark for Indian cricket. His influence has transformed the team into a formidable force, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers to come.