Cricket

Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) Rinku Singh, fresh off his maiden IPL triumph, has set his sights on replicating the success at the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA. KKR's emphatic eight-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL final marked their third title triumph.Rinku, who is part of the Indian team squad as a reserve, expressed his confidence in lifting the World Cup. "I am headed to Noida first and then I will be going to the United States of America. You guys watch, I will also be lifting the World Cup," he declared.Despite limited opportunities in the IPL season, Rinku made a significant contribution with 168 runs at a strike rate of 148.67. He attributed KKR's success to collective effort. "You can't credit just one person because everyone has worked hard. Since GG (Gautam Gambhir) sir came, a lot of things have changed," he said.In the final, KKR's bowlers restricted Hyderabad to a paltry 113, with Andre Russell claiming three wickets. Venkatesh Iyer's unbeaten 52* and Rahmanullah Gurbaz's 39 propelled KKR to victory in just 10.3 overs.Russell, who played a crucial role in the triumph, praised the team's adaptability. "As professionals, we always have to be up to the task to play on whatever surface we get," he said. He also shared insights into his batting technique, emphasizing the importance of minimizing front leg movement.Rinku's determination and KKR's collective spirit bode well for India's chances at the T20 World Cup. The team's ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be key to their success on the global stage.

KKR Secures Direct Final Berth with Qualifier 1 Victory over SRHKolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have stormed into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 final with a commanding victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 1. The triumph marks a remarkable achievement for KKR, who topped the league stage with an impressive record of nine wins, three losses, and two no results.KKR's dominance throughout the tournament was evident in their clinical performance against SRH. Batting first, they posted a formidable total of 187/6, thanks to a blistering half-century from Andre Russell (54 off 22 balls). The SRH bowlers struggled to contain Russell's onslaught, as he smashed four sixes and three fours in his whirlwind knock.In response, SRH's chase faltered from the outset. They lost wickets at regular intervals and were never able to build any momentum. Aiden Markram (32) and Nicholas Pooran (34) offered some resistance, but KKR's bowlers maintained a tight grip on the game.Sunil Narine was the pick of the KKR bowlers, claiming three wickets for just 22 runs in his four overs. Umesh Yadav and Andre Russell also chipped in with two wickets each, as SRH were restricted to 123/8 in their allotted 20 overs.KKR's victory was a testament to their all-round strength. Their batting lineup has been firing on all cylinders throughout the tournament, with Russell, Nitish Rana, and Shreyas Iyer leading the charge. Their bowling attack has also been impressive, with Narine, Yadav, and Russell forming a formidable trio.With their direct entry into the final, KKR will have a chance to lift their third IPL title. They will face the winner of Qualifier 2 between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 grand finale is set to witness a thrilling clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday.In their previous encounter in Qualifier 1, KKR's Mitchell Starc emerged as the Man of the Match with an impressive 99 fantasy points. For SRH, Rahul Tripathi was the standout performer, amassing 80 fantasy points.Over the 27 matches played between these two teams, KKR's all-rounders have consistently topped the fantasy points charts for their side. Conversely, SRH's batters have dominated the fantasy points charts for their team.KKR vs SRH: Standout Players to Watch1. Sunil Narine (KKR):An indispensable all-rounder for KKR, Sunil Narine has excelled with both bat and ball. He has scored 482 runs in 13 matches at an average of 37.1, including three half-centuries and one century. As a bowler, his off-break deliveries have yielded 16 wickets, averaging 22 per match.2. Travis Head (SRH):A formidable top-order left-handed batter for SRH, Travis Head has tallied 567 runs in 14 matches, averaging 43.6. His consistent performance includes four fifties and one century.3. Abhishek Sharma (SRH):A dependable top-order left-handed batter for SRH, Abhishek Sharma has scored 482 runs in 15 matches, with an average of 34.4.4. Andre Russell (KKR):Known for his explosive right-handed batting, Andre Russell has accumulated 222 runs in nine matches for KKR, averaging 31.7. His right-arm fast bowling has also been impressive, claiming 16 wickets with an average of 17.3 per match.5. Varun Chakaravarthy (KKR):A key leg-break googly bowler for KKR, Varun Chakaravarthy has taken 20 wickets in 13 matches, sporting an average of 19.7.6. Pat Cummins (SRH):The right-arm fast bowler for SRH has been a consistent performer, with 17 wickets in 15 matches at an average of 32.2.7. Mitchell Starc (KKR):A left-arm fast bowler for KKR, Mitchell Starc has claimed 15 wickets in 12 matches, averaging 28.7.8. Heinrich Klaasen (SRH):The right-handed batter and wicketkeeper for SRH, Heinrich Klaasen has scored 463 runs in 14 matches, averaging 42.1 per match.With such a star-studded lineup, the IPL 2024 grand finale promises to be an unforgettable spectacle of cricket.

In a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter of IPL 2024, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged victorious over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Eden Gardens.KKR captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first, hoping to exploit the mixed-soil pitch. Mitchell Starc, the Australian pacer, delivered a fiery opening over, dismissing Travis Head for a duck with a full-length delivery that crashed into the stumps.Rahul Tripathi and Abhishek Sharma steadied the SRH innings, but Vaibhav Arora struck in the second over, trapping Sharma in front for 15. Tripathi, however, kept the scoreboard ticking, hitting a boundary off Starc in the third over.Nitish Kumar Reddy joined Tripathi at the crease and played a cautious innings, while Tripathi continued to find the boundaries. However, Starc's relentless pace and accuracy proved too much for Tripathi, who was caught by Andre Russell for 24.Reddy and Abdul Samad added 35 runs for the fourth wicket before Samad was dismissed by Harshit Rana for 18. Shahbaz Ahmed and Heinrich Klaasen then chipped in with valuable contributions, but KKR's bowlers kept the pressure on, restricting SRH to 158/6 in their allotted 20 overs.In response, KKR openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Sunil Narine got off to a solid start, putting on 30 runs for the first wicket. However, Bhuvneshwar Kumar broke the partnership, dismissing Gurbaz for 16.Venkatesh Iyer and Shreyas Iyer then steadied the innings, adding 45 runs for the second wicket. Iyer fell to Vijayakanth Viyaskanth for 25, but Rinku Singh and Andre Russell ensured KKR reached their target with ease.Russell, in particular, played a blistering knock of 42 off just 20 balls, hitting four boundaries and three sixes. He remained unbeaten alongside Rinku Singh (22*) as KKR chased down the target with 10 balls to spare.With this victory, KKR advanced to the Qualifier 2, where they will face the winner of the Eliminator between Lucknow Super Giants and Rajasthan Royals. SRH's campaign ended with this defeat, but they can take solace in their impressive performance throughout the season.

Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner Shah Rukh Khan has showered praise on his star player Andre Russell, calling him a "fashionista" and comparing his camaraderie with Rinku Singh to the iconic Jai-Veeru duo from the movie "Sholey."Russell, a big-hitting West Indies all-rounder, has been a long-time recruit of the two-time IPL franchise. Khan lauded Russell's fashion sense, saying, "He likes to dress well, do his hair." He also revealed that Russell owns designer spikes, including Gucci ones.Amidst the praise, news broke that Russell would be making his debut in a Hindi music video titled "Ladki Tu Kamaal Ki," featuring actress Avika Gor. The first look of the video went viral on social media.Russell's debut in Bollywood as a singer and actor has been met with excitement. The all-rounder has taken the tag of "all-rounder" seriously, extending his talents beyond the cricket field.Former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram, who worked with Russell and Sunil Narine as bowling coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, revealed the bizarre schedule of the West Indies stars during the IPL. Akram said that Narine and Russell stay up all night and sleep during the day when in India for the tournament."When I was a part of KKR, I would wake up early for breakfast. Sunil Narine came for breakfast with swollen eyes. I asked him, 'Hey mate! What's happening?'" Akram recalled. "He said I haven't slept. I said what do you mean I haven't slept. He said I am on West Indies time."Akram added that Russell also follows the same schedule, sleeping during the day and staying up all night.Russell's debut music video, "Ladki Tu Kamaal Ki," is set to release soon, adding another dimension to his already impressive career.

Venkatesh Iyer's valiant half-century and a brilliant bowling performance from Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy propelled Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a morale-boosting victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match at the Wankhede Stadium on Friday.Despite losing early wickets, Iyer played a controlled knock, scoring 70 off 52 balls and forming an 83-run partnership with Manish Pandey (42). However, a mix-up with Andre Russell led to Iyer's run-out, sparking a debate online about whether he should have sacrificed his wicket.KKR's spin twins, Narine and Chakravarthy, then took control of the match, claiming identical hauls of 4-22 in their four overs each. They reduced MI to 61/4, and despite a valiant rescue attempt by Suryakumar Yadav and Tim David, Russell and Mitchell Starc shared five wickets to end MI's fightback.Starc claimed three wickets in the 19th over, including two off successive deliveries, finishing with 4-33. MI were bowled out for 145, giving KKR a much-needed victory against a team that had won 23 out of 32 matches before this encounter.Iyer's innings was crucial for KKR, as he provided stability to the batting order after the early wickets. His partnership with Pandey gave KKR a platform to build a competitive total. However, his run-out raised questions about his decision-making, with some arguing that he should have sacrificed his wicket to allow Russell to continue batting.The bowling performance of Narine and Chakravarthy was equally impressive. They exploited the Wankhede pitch conditions to perfection, bamboozling the MI batters with their variations. Russell and Starc then provided the finishing touches, ensuring that KKR secured a comfortable victory.This victory is a significant boost for KKR, who have struggled for consistency in recent seasons. It will give them confidence as they look to make a strong push for the playoffs. For MI, it is a setback, but they will be determined to bounce back in their upcoming matches.

Kolkata Knight Riders' Andre Russell Suffers Costly Run Out in Loss to Mumbai IndiansKolkata Knight Riders' hopes of securing their first win at the Wankhede Stadium since 2012 were dashed on Friday as they were bowled out for a modest 169 by the Mumbai Indians. The match was poised for a thrilling finish when Andre Russell, known for his explosive hitting, entered the crease with the score at 140 for six in the 17th over.Russell began his innings with a thunderous six off Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya's first delivery. However, disaster struck three balls later when he was involved in a calamitous run out. Russell's partner, Venkatesh Iyer, failed to respond to his call for a run on the final ball of the over. Iyer reverse-swept a Pandya delivery to short third man, and Russell immediately set off from the non-striker's end.To Russell's dismay, Iyer remained rooted to his crease. By the time Russell had almost reached his partner, it was too late. Pandya collected a wide throw and swiftly dismantled the stumps at the non-striker's end, sending Russell back to the pavilion for a mere 2-ball 7.Commentator Shane Watson later lamented that Russell's run out cost Kolkata Knight Riders approximately 30 runs towards the end of their innings. The costly dismissal proved to be a turning point in the match, as Mumbai Indians went on to restrict Kolkata Knight Riders to a below-par total.With six wins in nine matches, Kolkata Knight Riders currently occupy the second spot on the points table. Mumbai Indians, on the other hand, languish at the ninth spot with just three wins in 10 games.

West Indies Stars Narine and Russell's Bizarre IPL Schedule: Staying Up All Night, Sleeping During the DayFormer Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has shed light on the unusual sleep patterns of West Indies cricketers Sunil Narine and Andre Russell during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Akram, who coached Narine and Russell at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), revealed that the duo adheres to a nocturnal schedule while in India."When I was with KKR, I would wake up early for breakfast. Sunil Narine came for breakfast with swollen eyes. I asked him, 'Hey mate! What's happening?'" Akram recalled. "He said, 'I haven't slept.' I said, 'What do you mean you haven't slept?' He said, 'I am on West Indies time.'"Narine explained that he stays up all night and sleeps during the day in India, a practice that Russell also follows. This peculiar schedule stems from the significant time difference between India and the West Indies, which is 9 hours and 30 minutes.Despite their unconventional sleep habits, Narine and Russell have been instrumental in KKR's success. Narine has been a key contributor with both bat and ball, opening the batting and scoring 286 runs in the first seven matches. He has also taken nine wickets.Russell, on the other hand, has scored 155 runs and taken nine wickets in seven games. His explosive batting and all-round abilities have made him a valuable asset for KKR.Akram's revelation highlights the unique challenges faced by international cricketers who travel to different time zones for tournaments. While some players may struggle to adjust to the time difference, others, like Narine and Russell, have found ways to adapt and maintain their performance levels.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), led by Shreyas Iyer, have emerged as a formidable force in IPL 2024, securing five victories in seven matches. Despite Iyer's modest batting performance, the team's consistent success has boosted morale.In a recent interview with Cyrus Broacha, Iyer attributed his confident stride to childhood teasing. "They used to tease me," he said, referring to his teammate Nitish Rana. "This is natural. I've walked like this since I was young."Iyer humorously suggested that his "bouncy toes" might contribute to his distinctive gait. The trio, including Iyer, erupted in laughter at his explanation.KKR's success has been a collective effort, with contributions from various players. Andre Russell has been a key performer, scoring 180 runs and taking 10 wickets. Nitish Rana has also been impressive, amassing 200 runs.The team's bowling attack has been equally effective, with Umesh Yadav leading the charge with 12 wickets. Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine have also been instrumental in restricting opposition batters.KKR's strong start has positioned them as one of the favorites to reach the playoffs. With a balanced squad and a winning mentality, they aim to continue their impressive run and challenge for the IPL title.