Cricket

Kolkata Knight Riders' Gautam Gambhir Spreads Sweetness on Bengali New Year EveIn a heartwarming gesture, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir distributed sweets to media personnel on the eve of Bengali New Year. The thoughtful act came after KKR's pre-match press conference ahead of their clash against Lucknow Super Giants at the Eden Gardens on Sunday."It's new year tomorrow, so we have got sweets for you guys. So please feel free and put some calories on," said a smiling Gambhir before distributing Rasgullas.The gesture was met with appreciation and delight from the media contingent, who enjoyed the sweet treats distributed by KKR's "Guru Gambhir."The Bengali New Year, also known as Poila Boishakh, is celebrated on April 14th. Coincidentally, KKR will also play their home game on the same day, adding to the festive atmosphere.With three wins in four matches, KKR currently sit at the second spot on the Indian Premier League (IPL) points table, behind Rajasthan Royals. The team has been in impressive form, with Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer leading the charge with their explosive batting.Gambhir's gesture not only spread sweetness but also highlighted the strong bond between KKR and the media. The team's success on the field has been complemented by their off-field initiatives, which have endeared them to fans and the media alike.As KKR prepares for their upcoming match against Lucknow Super Giants, the team will be hoping to continue their winning ways and spread more joy to their supporters. The Bengali New Year celebrations will provide an added boost to the team's morale as they look to maintain their position at the top of the IPL standings.

Rajasthan Royals' bowlers, led by Avesh Khan and Keshav Maharaj, exploited a challenging pitch at Mullanpur to restrict Punjab Kings to a modest 147 for eight in their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter on April 13.Avesh (2/34) and Maharaj (2/23) stifled the Kings' batters, preventing them from gaining momentum on a surface that favored spin and slow bowling. Ashutosh Sharma (31, 16b), Jitesh Sharma (29, 24b), and Liam Livingstone (21, 14b) attempted to accelerate the innings, but their efforts proved insufficient.Punjab began their innings with a brisk start, scoring 26 runs in the first three overs. However, Atharva Taide's dismissal by Avesh Khan halted their progress. The Kings struggled to build partnerships as the Rajasthan spinners and Trent Boult's economical bowling kept them in check.The last three power play overs yielded only 10 runs for Punjab, leaving them with a meager 38 for one. The next five overs saw them manage just one boundary, as they labored to 53 for four in 10 overs. Jonny Bairstow, stand-in skipper Sam Curran, and Prabhsimran Singh all fell victim to the combination of a slow deck and accurate spinners.Curran's dismissal exemplified the Kings' struggles. The left-hander failed to generate power or timing on his pull shot off Maharaj, as the ball slowed down significantly after pitching. Dhruv Jurel took a tumbling catch while running in from deep mid-wicket.Shahshank Singh, Punjab's in-form batter, was expected to provide some impetus, but his feeble pull shot off Sen was caught by Jurel at mid-wicket. With the top order back in the pavilion, the Kings relied on Livingstone and Jitesh to salvage a competitive total.Sharma showed some intent, clobbering Chahal for a six over extra cover and later sending Sen for a six to the straight fence before getting out to Avesh. Livingstone, who creamed Sen for a six and four off successive balls through mid-wicket, and Ashutosh, who smoked Avesh for two sixes in the 19th over, helped PBKS add 61 runs in the last five overs, but their effort came too late.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricket captain, has once again captured the hearts of fans with a poignant moment at the Wankhede Stadium. Ahead of the IPL 2024 match between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, Dhoni was reunited with the iconic 2011 World Cup trophy, sparking a wave of nostalgia and admiration.Dhoni's tenure as captain from 2007 onwards transformed the Indian cricket team into an indomitable force. Under his leadership, India achieved unprecedented success, winning the ODI World Cup in 2011, the T20 World Cup in 2007, the Champions Trophy in 2013, and reaching the No. 1 ranking in Tests.The image of Dhoni hitting Nuwan Kulasekara for a six to seal India's victory in the 2011 World Cup final remains etched in the minds of cricket enthusiasts. It was a moment that not only brought glory to India but also cemented Dhoni's legacy as one of the greatest captains of all time.Dhoni's return to the Wankhede Stadium, where he created history, has evoked a sense of pride and nostalgia among fans. The image of him holding the World Cup trophy has gone viral on social media, with many hailing it as the "picture of the year."Despite stepping down as CSK captain ahead of the IPL 2024 season, Dhoni's influence on the team remains undeniable. His tactical acumen and leadership skills have been instrumental in CSK's success over the years.As the IPL 2024 season unfolds, fans will eagerly watch Dhoni's every move, hoping to witness more moments of brilliance from the legendary captain. His presence on the field continues to inspire and motivate the team, ensuring that the "Yellow Army" remains a formidable force in the tournament.

Punjab Kings Skipper Shikhar Dhawan Misses Match Due to Injury, Sam Curran Leads TeamIn a surprising turn of events, Punjab Kings' regular captain Shikhar Dhawan was absent from the toss for their match against Rajasthan Royals at Mullanpur, Chandigarh on Saturday. Star all-rounder Sam Curran stepped in to represent PBKS at the toss with RR's Sanju Samson.After winning the toss, Curran revealed the reason behind Dhawan's absence. "Shikhar (Dhawan) picked up a niggle, that's why I'm here," said Curran.Curran also shared that PBKS would have preferred to bowl first, but would now have to bat first. He praised the team's balance and highlighted the contributions of Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma in the middle order.For Rajasthan Royals, Jos Buttler and Ravichandran Ashwin were also absent due to injuries, as confirmed by captain Sanju Samson.Samson explained that RR would bowl first, as the wicket appeared conducive to bowling. He emphasized the team's focus on process and building a strong unit.Playing XIs:Rajasthan Royals: Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Tanush Kotian, Keshav Maharaj, Trent Boult, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Sen, Yuzvendra ChahalPunjab Kings: Jonny Bairstow, Atharva Taide, Prabhsimran Singh, Sam Curran(c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma(w), Shashank Singh, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada

Dipendra Singh Airee, Nepal's explosive batsman, has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming only the third player to smash six consecutive sixes in an over in an international T20 match. The remarkable feat was achieved against Qatar in the ACC Men's Premier Cup match in Al Amerat on Saturday.Airee, who entered the final over with 28 runs off 15 deliveries, unleashed a barrage of sixes off each of medium pacer Kamran Khan's deliveries. The 24-year-old finished with an astonishing 64 runs off just 21 balls, propelling Nepal to a formidable total of 210 for 7.Airee's extraordinary achievement places him alongside legendary cricketers Yuvraj Singh and Kieron Pollard, who have also accomplished the rare feat in international T20s. In ODI cricket, Herschelle Gibbs and Jaskaran Malhotra have achieved the same milestone.Notably, Airee is no stranger to such heroics. In September 2023, during the Asian Games in Hangzhou, he had achieved a similar feat against Mongolia. However, on that occasion, his six consecutive sixes were spread across two overs.Airee's six-hitting prowess has been a key factor in Nepal's recent success in T20 cricket. The right-handed batsman has played 60 T20Is and 55 ODIs for his country, showcasing his ability to clear the boundary with ease.Airee's record-breaking performance against Qatar is a testament to his exceptional talent and the growing strength of Nepal's cricket team. The young batsman's ability to produce such extraordinary feats on the international stage bodes well for the future of cricket in Nepal.

Jasprit Bumrah's resurgence for Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2024 has reignited hopes for the Indian cricket team ahead of the T20 World Cup. After a string of three consecutive losses, Bumrah's five-wicket haul against Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been instrumental in the team's turnaround.Bumrah's form is crucial for India's aspirations at the T20 World Cup, especially after the team's narrow miss at the ODI World Cup 2023. The Indian team is determined to end its 13-year ICC title drought, and Bumrah's bowling prowess will be a key factor.In a recent interview with his wife, Sanjana Ganesan, on Jio Cinema, Bumrah reflected on his journey with Mumbai Indians. "It's been a great journey so far," he said. "I came here as a 19-year-old and didn't even expect to play Ranji Trophy. But John Wright saw me and brought me in. I've grown here and been part of all those winning squads."Ganesan also asked Bumrah about his earlier plans to move to Canada. "We have had these conversations before," she said. "Every boy wants to make it big and play cricket, but you have to have a backup plan."Bumrah explained that his uncle lived in Canada and that he had considered finishing his education there. "I'm very happy and very lucky that things worked out," he said. "I'm playing for the Indian team and Mumbai Indians."Bumrah's return to form is a welcome boost for both Mumbai Indians and the Indian cricket team. His ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace will be crucial for India's success at the T20 World Cup.

Two-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face a depleted Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) side at Eden Gardens on April 14, seeking to return to winning ways and strengthen their playoff aspirations.KKR, who have won three of their five matches so far, will be eager to make the most of their home advantage. However, they will need to address their batting woes, which have been exposed by the absence of Nitish Rana and the inconsistent form of captain Shreyas Iyer.Iyer, who has scored just 34 runs in his last four innings, will be under pressure to deliver. The team's reliance on the aging Caribbean duo of Sunil Narine and Andre Russell has also been a concern, as both players failed to fire in their previous outing against Chennai Super Kings.LSG, on the other hand, will be without their pace sensation Mayank Yadav for a second consecutive match. Yadav's absence has weakened their bowling attack, which has already been struggling to contain opposition batters.Despite their depleted squad, LSG will be confident of causing an upset. They boast a formidable batting lineup led by Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul, who will be looking to return to form after a disappointing outing against Delhi Capitals.The match promises to be a close contest, with both teams desperate for a victory. KKR will be the favorites, but LSG have shown that they are capable of punching above their weight.

Preity Zinta, the co-owner of the Punjab Kings franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL), is renowned for her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering support for her team. Despite the team's lack of title success, Zinta's energy and passion remain undiminished.During matches, Zinta is a constant presence, engaging with fans by throwing souvenirs and interacting with broadcasters. In a recent viral video, she shared an anecdote about preparing 120 aloo parathas for the Punjab Kings cricketers."I said I want aloo paratha, and they asked who would make it," Zinta recounted. "The hotel served us bland parathas, so I offered to teach them. The boys said they would make it if I made it for them. They won, so I had to make around 120 aloo parathas."Zinta's unwavering support for her team has made her a beloved figure among Punjab Kings fans. She is often seen cheering from the stands, adding a touch of glamour and enthusiasm to the franchise. Her involvement has also brought her into the spotlight as one of the prominent female franchise owners in the IPL.Beyond her team's performance, Zinta's involvement in the IPL has garnered attention for her enthusiastic support during matches. She has become a prominent figure in the franchise owner circle, known for her infectious energy and unwavering belief in her team.Currently, the Punjab Kings are placed eighth in the points table with two wins from five games. They will face the Rajasthan Royals in Mullanpur on Saturday, hoping to improve their standings and continue their quest for their maiden IPL title.

Derbyshire's Alex Thomson delivered a career-defining performance on the opening day of their Vitality County Championship clash against Glamorgan in Cardiff, claiming a remarkable seven wickets to restrict the hosts to 237 all out.Thomson's exceptional bowling display justified Derbyshire's decision to insert Glamorgan into bat on a sunny day. The New Zealand international Blair Tickner also played a crucial role, dismissing Billy Root and Sam Northeast early on.Glamorgan's top scorer was Kiran Carlson, who contributed a valuable 74. However, regular wickets throughout the day prevented the home side from building substantial partnerships. The highest partnership they managed was 60 between Carlson and Zain-ul-Hassan.As the Glamorgan innings progressed, Thomson's spin bowling became increasingly effective. He induced a flashy drive from Colin Ingram, had Chris Cooke brilliantly caught at leg slip, and dismissed Dan Douthwaite with a low catch off his own bowling.Thomson's relentless pressure continued, as he bowled James Harris for just 4 and Mason Crane for 13. His 7 for 65 surpassed his previous career best of 6 for 138 and became the best return for a Derbyshire spinner since Geoff Miller's 8 for 70 in 1982.Derbyshire faced 16 overs before the close, reaching 46 for 1. Luis Reece was the only batsman dismissed, leaving Derbyshire 191 runs behind Glamorgan.The pitch at Cardiff suggests that this match could be a closely contested affair. Derbyshire will be buoyed by Thomson's heroics, while Glamorgan will need to find a way to counter his spin threat.