Cricket

Virat Kohli, the talismanic Indian batter, has etched his name in the annals of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by becoming the first player to represent a single team in 250 matches. This remarkable feat was achieved during Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) clash against Delhi Capitals in Bengaluru on Sunday.Kohli's journey with RCB has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by both triumphs and heartbreaks. In 249 matches for the franchise, he has amassed a staggering 7897 runs at an impressive average of 38.71 and a blistering strike rate of 131.64. His tally includes eight centuries and 55 half-centuries, with his highest score being an unbeaten 113.Despite his prolific run-scoring, Kohli's ultimate goal of winning the IPL title with RCB remains elusive. He has led the team to the final thrice, in 2009, 2011, and 2016, but has fallen short on each occasion.Beyond his individual brilliance, Kohli holds several notable records in the IPL. He is the tournament's all-time leading run-getter and has the most centuries to his name. In 2016, he set the record for the most runs in a single edition, amassing 973 runs in 16 matches at an astonishing average of over 81 and a strike rate above 152.In the ongoing season, Kohli has once again showcased his exceptional form, leading the Orange Cap race with 634 runs in 12 matches. His average of 70.44 and strike rate of 153.51 are a testament to his consistency and power-hitting prowess. He has scored a century and five half-centuries, with his highest score being 113*.Kohli's longevity and unwavering commitment to RCB have made him a fan favorite and an icon of the franchise. His ability to inspire his teammates and lead by example has been instrumental in RCB's success over the years. As he continues to chase his elusive IPL title, Kohli's legacy as one of the greatest players in the tournament's history is already secure.

Kolkata Knight Riders' Ramandeep Singh Fined for Code of Conduct BreachKolkata Knight Riders' medium pacer Ramandeep Singh has been penalized for violating the Indian Premier League (IPL) Code of Conduct during their match against Mumbai Indians at the Eden Gardens. The 27-year-old was found guilty of a Level 1 offense under Article 2.20 of the Code of Conduct.Singh acknowledged his wrongdoing and accepted the Match Referee's sanction. As per the IPL Code of Conduct, the Match Referee's decision for Level 1 breaches is final and binding.The incident occurred during the rain-affected match between KKR and Mumbai Indians on Saturday. KKR emerged victorious by 18 runs, securing their place in the playoffs as the first team this season.Singh contributed 17 runs off 8 balls in the match. However, his actions on the field led to the disciplinary action. The specific details of the offense have not been disclosed.The IPL Code of Conduct aims to maintain fair play and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. It outlines various offenses and corresponding penalties, ranging from fines to suspensions.By adhering to the Code of Conduct, players and teams ensure a level playing field and uphold the integrity of the IPL.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals Set for Thrilling Clash in IPL 2024Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC) are poised for an exciting encounter in Match 62 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. Both teams have been in competitive form this season, with RCB sitting seventh on the points table with 10 points from 12 matches and DC ranked fifth with 12 points from the same number of games.In their previous outing, RCB emerged victorious over Punjab Kings by 60 runs, with Virat Kohli leading the charge with a brilliant 139-point performance. Meanwhile, DC secured a 20-run win against Rajasthan Royals, with Abishek Porel scoring 96 fantasy points.Pitch and Weather ConditionsThe M Chinnaswamy Stadium pitch is known for its batting-friendly nature, with batters expected to find it easy to score runs. The surface is unlikely to provide much assistance to bowlers, making wicket-taking a challenge. The average first-innings score at this venue in the last 20 matches is 170 runs. The team batting first has won 42% of matches here, indicating that the toss may not play a significant role.Pace or Spin?The venue is suitable for both pacers and spinners, with both types of bowlers likely to find success.Weather ForecastThe temperature during the match is expected to hover around 29 degrees Celsius, with humidity at approximately 45%. Winds are predicted to blow at a speed of 3.61 m/s.Head-to-HeadIn the 31 matches played between these two teams, the bowlers have consistently earned the most fantasy points for their respective sides. Their last encounter in Match 50 of IPL 2023 saw Mahipal Lomror top the fantasy points chart for RCB with 92 points, while Mitchell Marsh led the way for DC with 91 points.Fantasy Top Captain and Vice-Captain PicksVirat Kohli (RCB): Kohli is a consistent performer in fantasy cricket, averaging 81 points in the last 10 games. He is a top-order batter with a proven track record of scoring big runs.Will Jacks (RCB): Jacks is a differential pick who can add value to your fantasy team. He averages 59 points in the last 10 games and is a top-order batter with the potential to score quickly.Axar Patel (DC): Patel is a versatile player who can contribute with both bat and ball. He averages 55 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a handy left-arm spinner who has taken 10 wickets in recent matches.Faf du Plessis (RCB): Du Plessis is a reliable top-order batter who averages 52 fantasy points in the last 10 games. He has scored 361 runs in the last 12 matches and is a consistent performer.Kuldeep Yadav (DC): Yadav is a slow left-arm chinaman bowler who has taken 14 wickets in the last nine matches. He averages 51 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a consistent wicket-taker.Khaleel Ahmed (DC): Ahmed is a left-arm medium pacer who has taken 14 wickets in the last 12 matches. He averages 34 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a reliable bowler.Yash Dayal (RCB): Dayal is a left-arm medium-fast bowler who has taken 10 wickets in the last 11 matches. He averages 28 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a good-to-have player for your fantasy team.Glenn Maxwell (RCB): Maxwell is an all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. He averages 26 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a differential pick who can add value to your team.Fantasy TeamWicket-Keeper: Abishek Porel (DC) and Dinesh Karthik (RCB)Batters: Virat Kohli (RCB), Faf du Plessis (RCB), and Jake Fraser-McGurk (DC)All-Rounders: Glenn Maxwell (RCB), Axar Patel (DC), and Cameron Green (DC)Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav (DC), Khaleel Ahmed (DC), and Mohammed Siraj (RCB)Captain: Virat Kohli (RCB)Vice-Captain: Axar Patel (DC)

Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals have emerged as a formidable force in IPL 2024, currently occupying the second spot in the points table under his astute leadership. Samson's exceptional captaincy has been complemented by his impressive batting form, with 471 runs in 11 matches, placing him fifth in the list of top run-scorers.Samson's current tally is just 14 runs shy of his highest IPL season total (484 runs in 2021). His remarkable average (67.29) and strike rate (163.54) this year are also his best in a single edition.As the Royals prepare to face defending champions Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk on Sunday, a victory would secure their place in the playoffs. Ahead of the crucial match, Samson shared his insights on the intense competition in the IPL and the importance of staying present."I don't dwell on winning or losing," Samson said. "Every team has the potential to win the IPL. We respect our opponents and ourselves, and we focus on playing our best cricket."Samson emphasized the unpredictable nature of the IPL, recalling how the Royals won five out of six matches last season but still failed to qualify. "It's crucial to stay humble and focus on the present," he added.The Royals have a strong record against CSK, having won six of their last seven encounters, including the last four. Ravichandran Ashwin was the standout performer in last year's match at Chepauk, where the Royals emerged victorious by a narrow three-run margin.With Samson's leadership and the team's impressive form, the Royals are poised to make a strong push for the IPL title. Their match against CSK on Sunday will be a crucial test of their mettle and could determine their fate in the playoffs.

Zimbabwe's captain, Sikandar Raza, opted to field first against Bangladesh in the fifth and final T20I match in Dhaka. The visitors made one change to their lineup, bringing in Sean Williams for Richard Ngarava.Bangladesh, who have already secured the series 4-0, made three changes to their team. Mahmudullah, Mahedi Hasan, and Mohammad Saifuddin replaced Taskin Ahmed, Tanvir Islam, and Tanzim Hasan.Bangladesh XI:1. Tanzid Hasan2. Soumya Sarkar3. Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt)4. Towhid Hridoy5. Shakib Al Hasan6. Mahmudullah7. Jaker Ali (wk)8. Mahedi Hasan9. Rishad Hossain10. Mohammad Saifuddin11. Mustafizur RahmanZimbabwe XI:1. Brian Bennett2. Tadiawanashe Marumani3. Sikandar Raza (capt)4. Sean Williams5. Clive Madande (wk)6. Ryan Burl7. Johnathan Campbell8. Luke Jongwe9. Wellington Masakadza10. Faraz Akram11. Blessing MuzarabaniThe match marks the end of a successful tour for Bangladesh, who have dominated Zimbabwe throughout the series. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, will be looking to salvage some pride and end the tour on a positive note.

Shubman Gill's blistering century against Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday has reignited the debate over his omission from India's T20 World Cup squad.Gill, who has been in scintillating form this IPL season, slammed his fourth ton in the league, powering Gujarat Titans to a comfortable 35-run win over the defending champions. His 55-ball 104 was a testament to his class and ability to dominate even the best bowling attacks.Former India coach Ravi Shastri, who was on commentary duty during the match, expressed his admiration for Gill and lamented his exclusion from the World Cup squad. "He (Gill) would be hurting. He should be hurting. He should look at it positively and try to get better," Shastri said.Shastri pointed out that Gill's talent is undeniable, but the depth of India's batting lineup is such that he has not been able to secure a place in the 15-man squad. "A player of his calibre would walk into any side, but such is the talent in India that he doesn't get a place," Shastri added.Despite missing out on a place in the World Cup squad, Gill will still be traveling with Team India as a reserve alongside Rinku Singh, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed. This indicates that the selectors still value his abilities and believe he has a future with the national team.Gill's omission from the World Cup squad has raised questions about the selection criteria and whether the selectors have made the right decision. Some experts believe that Gill's consistent performances in the IPL should have earned him a place in the squad, while others argue that the selectors have opted for a more experienced lineup.Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to include Gill in the World Cup squad is a matter of opinion. However, there is no doubt that he is a talented batsman with the potential to become one of the best in the world. His performances in the IPL this season have only reinforced that belief.

Fan Breaches Security to Meet MS Dhoni at IPL MatchDuring an Indian Premier League (IPL) match between the Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Gujarat, a 21-year-old man named Jaykumar Jani breached the tight security cordon to enter the field and meet cricketer MS Dhoni.The incident occurred during a DRS (decision review system) break on Friday night. Jani, a native of Rabarika village in Bhavnagar district, jumped the metal barricades near the black screen and ran towards the pitch. He was quickly apprehended and taken to Chandkheda police station.Jani informed the police that he was a fan of Dhoni and wanted to meet him. In a video of the incident that surfaced on social media, Jani is seen bowing at Dhoni's feet near the pitch and hugging him before security personnel take him away.Assistant Commissioner of Police DV Rana said that Jani and his brother Parth had traveled from Bhavnagar to watch the match. He added that this is the second such incident at the Narendra Modi Stadium in six months. In November 2023, Wayne Johnson, an Australian national of Chinese-Filipino origin, breached the security cordon to enter the field and hug Virat Kohli during the World Cup final between India and Australia.Jani was formally arrested on Saturday after a first information report (FIR) was registered against him. He has been charged under section 447 (criminal trespass) of the IPC.

KKR Aim to Seal Playoff Berth Against Struggling Mumbai IndiansKolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the two-time former Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, are on the cusp of securing a playoff berth for the first time in three years. They will face the struggling Mumbai Indians (MI) in their final home match of the season on Saturday, with a win guaranteeing them a spot in the top four.KKR have been in red-hot form this season, winning eight of their 11 matches. They currently sit atop the 10-team standings with 16 points. A victory over MI would extend their lead and all but confirm their place in the playoffs.On the other hand, MI have endured a disappointing campaign, winning just three of their 11 matches. They are languishing at the bottom of the table and have already been eliminated from playoff contention. However, they will be determined to end their season on a high note and spoil KKR's party.KKR will be led by their star-studded batting lineup, which includes the likes of Andre Russell, Nitish Rana, and Shreyas Iyer. They also have a formidable bowling attack, spearheaded by Umesh Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy.MI, meanwhile, will rely on their experienced players such as Rohit Sharma, Kieron Pollard, and Jasprit Bumrah to guide them to a victory. They will also need their young guns, like Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma, to step up and deliver.The match promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with contrasting fortunes. KKR will be the favorites, but MI will be desperate to prove that they are not a spent force.

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricket team batter, has expressed his admiration for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) owner Shah Rukh Khan, calling him the best owner he has ever worked with. Gambhir, who led KKR to two Indian Premier League (IPL) titles as captain, returns to the franchise in 2024 as a mentor.Gambhir's relationship with Khan dates back to 2011 when he first joined KKR. He praised Khan for his humility, groundedness, and non-interference in cricketing matters."I have a fabulous relationship with him. For me, he is the best owner I have worked with. And the reason is not just that he is humble, he is pretty grounded," Gambhir said on Sportskeeda."I don't think he has ever interfered in cricketing matters and it is a very big thing for someone like me because you get the freedom of decision-making. You have the freedom and trust that whatever decision I take, I know he's going to back me."Gambhir believes that the trust between him and Khan has been instrumental in their success."And more importantly, that's why we have got the results as well. My relationship with him is fantastic and not just now but since I first joined KKR in 2011.""But again as you said, SRK is an emotion, I think KKR is an emotion for me as well. That's why I feel that when any relationship starts on trust, that trust then goes a long way.""It's the trust between us because I know he will never involve himself in cricketing matters and he knows that any decision I take will be in the best interests of the team and not for anything else," he added.Gambhir's return to KKR as a mentor is expected to bring valuable experience and guidance to the team. His close relationship with Khan and his understanding of the franchise's culture will be key assets in his new role.