Cricket

Rajat Patidar, the Madhya Pradesh batsman, has emerged as a key player for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2024. His two half-centuries, including a match-winning 112 in the eliminator last year, have showcased his talent and determination.In RCB's recent match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Patidar's 52 off 23 balls almost guided his team to victory. Chasing KKR's 222 for 6, Patidar and Will Jacks (55 off 32) put on a 102-run partnership to put RCB in a strong position. However, their dismissals in the 12th over halted RCB's momentum.Despite a late blitz by Dinesh Karthik (25 off 18) and Karn Sharma (20 off 7), RCB fell just one run short of their target, losing by a heartbreaking margin. Patidar's performance in the match highlighted his ability to play under pressure and contribute to his team's success.Patidar's journey with RCB began in 2021, but he was released after playing only four matches. He returned in 2022 as a replacement player and became the third-highest run-getter for his team with 333 runs. His unbeaten 112 against Lucknow Super Giants in the eliminator was a testament to his batting prowess.Patidar's success in IPL 2024 is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has overcome injuries and setbacks to establish himself as a valuable asset for RCB. His ability to play match-winning innings and contribute to his team's success makes him a player to watch in the upcoming matches of IPL 2024.

DRS Accuracy Concerns Raised by Harbhajan SinghFormer Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has expressed skepticism about the accuracy of the Decision Review System (DRS) in judging the bounce of the ball. Speaking on the 180 Not Out podcast, Harbhajan questioned the system's ability to determine the exact trajectory of the ball, particularly in relation to the wicket.Harbhajan's concerns stem from the fundamental principle of cricket, which dictates that any ball that hits the wicket results in a dismissal. However, he believes that DRS often fails to adhere to this rule, leading to inconsistent and sometimes questionable decisions."I'm not fully inclined to believe that it is entirely accurate because it cannot judge the bounce of the ball and how much it is bouncing," Harbhajan said. "Another thing that bothers me is that when we start playing cricket in the neighborhood, we are shown the wicket and told that if the ball hits the wicket, you're out."Harbhajan also criticized the inconsistency in applying DRS decisions by umpires. He cited instances where umpires have upheld not-out decisions despite clear evidence from the technology that the ball hit the stumps."If the umpire has given a not out, and DRS clearly shows the ball hitting the stumps, it should be given out," Harbhajan argued. "But we sometimes use the umpire's decision and retain the not out verdict. Aap technology ko la bhi rahe ho aur uski baat bhi nahi maan rahe (You are bringing in technology but not accepting its decision)."In contrast, former India pacer S Sreesanth expressed a more positive view towards technology in cricket, but with some reservations. He acknowledged the potential benefits of technology in improving decision-making, but cautioned against relying on it completely."Technology, if used wisely, is brilliant because you've got to accept the change, but don't depend on it completely," Sreesanth said.The debate over the accuracy and consistency of DRS continues to stir controversy in cricket. The recent incident involving Virat Kohli's dismissal in the 2024 Indian Premier League has reignited the discussion about the efficacy of technology in the sport.

Mumbai Indians, the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, have regained their confidence after a dismal start to the 2024 season. Winning three of their last four matches, the team has shed the shadow of their initial hat-trick of defeats. This newfound confidence is evident in the light-hearted moments shared during practice sessions.In a recent video posted on social media, MI captain Hardik Pandya transformed into a cameraman, capturing candid shots of his teammates and even the Rajasthan Royals players. With a DSLR camera in hand, Hardik called out the names of players, ensuring they were in focus for his lens.This playful moment highlights the camaraderie within the MI camp, which has been instrumental in their recent resurgence. Hardik, who replaced Rohit Sharma as captain this season, has brought a fresh perspective to the team.MI's recent victories against Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings have propelled them to seventh place in the IPL standings. With six points from three wins in seven matches, the team needs to maintain consistency to secure a playoff berth.Their upcoming match against the Rajasthan Royals on Monday at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur will be a crucial test. A win would further boost MI's confidence and strengthen their playoff aspirations.

In a stunning upset, an undermanned New Zealand team led by Mark Chapman's unbeaten 87 stunned Pakistan by seven wickets in the third Twenty20 international in Rawalpindi.Chapman, a 29-year-old left-hander, anchored New Zealand's chase of 179 with a blistering 42-ball knock, silencing a packed 16,000-strong holiday crowd. His innings featured four sixes and nine fours, his eighth half-century in the format.Pakistan's innings was highlighted by Shadab Khan's 41 and Babar Azam's 37. However, New Zealand's bowlers kept the hosts in check, with leg-spinner Ish Sodhi claiming 2-25.Tim Robinson (28 off 19) and Tim Seifert (21 off 16) provided a solid start for New Zealand, setting the tone for Chapman's heroics. Chapman and Dean Foxcroft (31) then combined for a 117-run third-wicket partnership, putting New Zealand in a commanding position.Pakistan skipper Azam rued dropping Chapman twice, on 16 and 36. "When you drop a set batter's catches, he will take the game away from you," said Azam.New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell praised his team's effort, particularly the partnership between Chapman and Foxcroft. "Really happy with the way the guys put the learnings from last night," said Bracewell.The victory squared the five-match series at 1-1, with the final two matches scheduled for Lahore on April 25 and 27. Both teams are using the series as preparation for the Twenty20 World Cup in June.

Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir: From Foes to Friends, Captivating the IPLThe Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the relationship between two of its most iconic players, Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir. Once fierce rivals, the duo has now forged an unbreakable bond, captivating fans with their heartwarming interactions.In recent matches, Kohli and Gambhir have been spotted embracing, shaking hands, and engaging in lively conversations. These moments have been captured on video and shared widely on social media, garnering immense attention. The images have left fans in awe of the camaraderie between the two star Indian players.Kohli, known for his fiery on-field persona, has acknowledged that fans have missed the "masala" associated with his past confrontations with Gambhir. However, he has expressed his belief that their newfound friendship is a positive development for the game.In a recent match between the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kohli's dismissal sparked an angry outburst. Despite the setback, RCB nearly pulled off a thrilling victory, falling just one run short.KKR had posted a formidable total of 222-6, thanks to explosive knocks from Phil Salt and Shreyas Iyer. RCB's chase got off to a shaky start with Kohli's early departure. However, Karn Sharma's late heroics, including three sixes in the final over, kept RCB's hopes alive.In a dramatic finish, Salt ran out Lockie Ferguson on the last ball, securing a narrow victory for KKR. The match showcased the intense competition and unpredictable nature of the IPL.The newfound friendship between Kohli and Gambhir has become a talking point among fans and experts alike. It serves as a reminder that even the fiercest of rivals can find common ground and forge lasting bonds.

Shah Rukh Khan's Unwavering Support Propelled Gautam Gambhir to IPL GloryKolkata Knight Riders' mentor Gautam Gambhir has revealed the profound impact that team co-owner Shah Rukh Khan had on his career during a challenging period in 2014. As captain of the team, Gambhir endured a lean patch at the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) season, contemplating dropping himself from the lineup.However, Khan's unwavering belief in Gambhir's abilities proved pivotal. In a conversation captured on the KKR Knights Dugout Podcast, Gambhir recalled Khan's words: "Till you're here, you are not going to drop yourself."Inspired by Khan's trust, Gambhir persevered and led KKR to their second IPL title that season. The Bollywood superstar's support extended beyond the field, as Gambhir noted that Khan rarely interfered with his decision-making as captain."He trusted my decision-making," Gambhir said. "I'm not saying I took all the right decisions, but he never questioned them."Gambhir's admiration for Khan stems from the actor's exceptional leadership qualities. "He is the best owner I've worked with," Gambhir declared. "He's not just a big achiever in his own field, but he also trusts his team and empowers them to make decisions."Under Gambhir's captaincy, KKR won two IPL titles, in 2012 and 2014. He returned to the franchise in 2024 as a mentor, bringing his wealth of experience and leadership skills to guide the team to future success.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Faf du Plessis expressed his admiration for his team's fighting spirit but acknowledged the need for clarity and confidence in crucial moments, which he believes RCB lacked in their narrow one-run defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).Chasing a challenging 223, RCB appeared well-positioned at 137 for 2 after 11 overs, thanks to a 102-run partnership between Will Jacks and Rajat Patidar. However, the momentum shifted dramatically when Andre Russell dismissed both set batters in the same over. Cameron Green and Mahipal Lomror followed suit in the next over, falling prey to Sunil Narine's spin.Du Plessis attributed the loss to a lack of clarity in decision-making, particularly in the batters' tendency to go for big shots early on. "When you haven't won games in a while, there's a bit of a lack of clarity," he said. "We got close, but the over from Narine was the turning point."The RCB captain also highlighted the changing nature of the game, where batters feel pressured to score boundaries from the outset. "The game doesn't allow you to get yourself in anymore," he said. "You have the extra batter with the Impact Player rule, but the guys who come in want to take six or seven balls to get themselves in and get six of six. When you're chasing 230, 240, 250, it just feels like the game doesn't allow you to do that anymore."Despite the defeat, du Plessis praised his team's effort in the field, despite conceding 222. "I'm really proud of the boys, the way that we fought in the field," he said. "We kept them to a total that we felt was defendable."

West Indies emerged victorious in the second ODI against Pakistan, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The thrilling encounter witnessed a late twist, with West Indies snatching a two-wicket win off the final ball.Pakistan, opting to bat first, posted a competitive total of 223 thanks to half-centuries from Sidra Ameen and Bismah Maroof. However, West Indies' bowlers, led by Chinelle Henry and Karishma Ramharack, kept the Pakistani batters in check, restricting them to a manageable target.In the chase, West Indies lost early wickets but Hayley Mathews kept the innings afloat with a solid 44. Shemaine Campbelle and Stafanie Taylor then forged a crucial 88-run partnership, putting West Indies in a commanding position. Taylor, who top-scored with 73, anchored the innings even after Campbelle's departure.However, Pakistan captain Nida Dar staged a remarkable comeback, claiming four wickets in quick succession to bring her team back into contention. With West Indies needing five runs off the final six balls, Fatima Sana conceded just two off the first five deliveries, including the wicket of Afy Fletcher.But in a dramatic twist, Ramharack managed to edge the final ball past the wicketkeeper for a boundary, sparking jubilation in the West Indies camp. The victory not only secured the series for West Indies but also extended their unbeaten streak in ODIs to 10 matches.