Cricket

Former SunRisers Hyderabad head coach Tom Moody heaped praise on Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill after his match-winning century against Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2024 clash. Gill's blistering knock of 104 off just 55 balls, along with Sai Sudharsan's 103 off 51 balls, powered GT to a record-breaking opening stand and a crucial victory.Moody emphasized the significance of Gill's century, particularly after his omission from India's T20 World Cup squad. "It reaffirms his status as a world-class batter," Moody said. "He's obviously gutted about not being part of India's World Cup team, but this knock shows that he's still a force to be reckoned with."Moody also highlighted the impact of GT's fielding effort, which he believes was crucial in separating the two sides. "Gujarat was very good in the field, they took all their catches, some really good catches," he said. "CSK were unlike CSK, just a little sloppy in their performance out there."The win keeps GT's playoff hopes alive, while CSK remains in fourth place despite the defeat. Moody believes that GT's fielding effort was a key factor in their victory. "It's important for the bowlers when the conditions are difficult for them to survive," he said. "The fielding effort today was a big difference."

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) dismal performance continued on Friday as they succumbed to a 35-run defeat against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad. The loss marked CSK's sixth setback of the season, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the points table.GT's batting prowess was on full display as Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan notched up magnificent centuries. Gill's 112 off 57 deliveries and Sudharsan's unbeaten 100 off 56 balls propelled GT to a formidable total of 231/3.CSK's chase faltered from the outset, with the top order failing to provide a solid foundation. Despite a valiant effort from MS Dhoni, who smashed three towering sixes in the final over, CSK could only muster 196/8.Dhoni's batting position has been a subject of intense debate throughout IPL 2024. Former cricketer Virender Sehwag believes it's time to end the discussion, emphasizing that Dhoni knows his role and is capable of delivering when it matters most."We should end the debate around MS Dhoni's batting position. He knows what he wants to do. It's his wish. But if you want to win the match, the form he is in, and the strike rate that he's batting at... the other batters need to play at a similar level," Sehwag said.CSK head coach Stephen Fleming defended Dhoni's position, highlighting his influence on the team and the need to manage his workload."Don't underestimate his influence on the team just because he comes in at No. 9. There's a timing aspect, but we're very wary of what he can give us. And we'll max that out," Fleming asserted.Despite Dhoni's heroics, CSK's batting woes continue to haunt them. The team's inability to build partnerships and score consistently has been a major factor in their struggles.

Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill has been fined 25% of his match fees for maintaining a slow over rate during their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 encounter against the Chennai Super Kings. This was the team's second offense of the season under the IPL's Code of Conduct concerning minimum over rate violations.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and IPL issued a statement confirming the penalty, highlighting that Gill was fined INR 24 lakh. The remaining members of the Playing XI, including the Impact Player, faced individual fines of either INR 6 lakh or 25% of their respective match fees, depending on which amount was lesser.The disciplinary action against Gill underscores the importance of adhering to over rate regulations. However, the Titans' performance on the field showcased their formidable prowess. Gill, alongside B Sai Sudharsan, spearheaded an extraordinary assault on the Chennai Super Kings' bowling attack, with both players notching centuries.Their stellar batting display powered the Gujarat Titans to a commanding 35-run victory over the Chennai Super Kings. Despite the setback of the over rate penalty, the Titans' emphatic win kept their slim playoff chances alive.The Titans' victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. Despite facing a slow over rate penalty, they remained focused on their goal and executed their game plan with precision. Gill's leadership and the team's overall performance were commendable.The IPL is known for its competitive nature and strict adherence to rules and regulations. The over rate penalty serves as a reminder to all teams of the importance of maintaining a brisk pace of play. It also highlights the BCCI's commitment to ensuring fair play and maintaining the integrity of the tournament.

MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer, continues to inspire and captivate fans even after his retirement. His immense popularity was evident during the recent Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings match in Ahmedabad, where a spectator breached security to touch Dhoni's feet, a gesture of deep respect in Indian culture.This incident highlights the enduring legacy of Dhoni, who has become an icon beyond the cricket field. His fans, known as "Dhoniacs," are fiercely loyal and eager to express their admiration for their idol. The sight of spectators invading the field to get close to Dhoni has become a common occurrence, demonstrating the immense love and respect he commands.During the match, Dhoni played a crucial role in CSK's chase, scoring a quickfire 26 off 11 balls, including two consecutive sixes off Rashid Khan. His cameo enthralled the Ahmedabad crowd and showcased his exceptional batting skills.However, the match was ultimately won by Gujarat Titans, who posted a formidable total of 231/3 thanks to centuries from Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan. The GT bowlers then restricted CSK to 196/8, despite fighting fifties from Daryl Mitchell and Moeen Ali.Dhoni's presence on the field continues to generate excitement and admiration among fans. His ability to connect with the crowd and inspire young players is a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.

In a thrilling encounter at the Wankhede Stadium, the Gujarat Titans (GT) emerged victorious over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 35 runs, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Captain Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan played pivotal roles in GT's triumph, smashing scintillating centuries.Gill, the GT skipper, displayed his exceptional batting prowess, scoring 104 runs off just 55 deliveries. His innings was adorned with nine boundaries and six maximums, showcasing his power and precision. Sudharsan, on the other hand, notched his maiden IPL century, amassing 103 runs off 51 balls. His knock was equally impressive, featuring five boundaries and seven sixes.The duo's 210-run partnership, the highest for any wicket in the IPL this season, laid the foundation for GT's massive total of 231/3. Their partnership also equaled the highest-ever IPL opening partnership set by Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul.In contrast, CSK's openers failed to make an impact, with both being dismissed with just two runs on the board. Skipper Rituraj Gaikwad, their leading run-scorer this season, was also sent packing for a duck, leaving CSK reeling at 10/3.Daryl Mitchell and Moeen Ali attempted to revive CSK's innings with a 109-run partnership. Mitchell scored 63 runs, while Ali contributed 56. However, veteran Mohit Sharma's three-wicket haul, including the dismissals of Mitchell and Ali, proved to be a turning point.Rashid Khan also played a crucial role, claiming the wickets of Ravindra Jadeja and Mitchell Santner. Mahendra Singh Dhoni's late cameo of 26 runs, including three sixes, was not enough to prevent CSK from falling short.The victory propelled GT from the bottom of the table to the eighth spot, while CSK remained in fourth place. The win also boosted GT's net run rate, giving them a better chance of qualifying for the playoffs.

Sai Sudharsan Breaks Records, Becomes Fastest Indian to 1000 IPL RunsGujarat Titans opener Sai Sudharsan has etched his name in the history books of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by becoming the fastest Indian to reach the milestone of 1000 runs. The 21-year-old achieved this remarkable feat during the Titans' home game against Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.Sudharsan's blistering knock of 51-ball 103 not only propelled the Titans to a comfortable victory but also saw him surpass legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Chennai Super Kings' Ruturaj Gaikwad as the fastest Indian to reach the 1000-run mark. Tendulkar had taken 31 innings to reach the milestone, while Gaikwad had equaled his record earlier this season.Sudharsan's remarkable achievement is a testament to his exceptional talent and consistency. He has been a key contributor to the Titans' success in the ongoing IPL season, consistently delivering match-winning performances at the top of the order.The young opener's journey to 1000 IPL runs has been nothing short of impressive. He made his IPL debut in 2022 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore and quickly caught the attention of fans and experts alike with his aggressive batting style. In his first season, he scored 319 runs in 14 matches, including two half-centuries.Sudharsan's performances earned him a move to the Gujarat Titans ahead of the 2023 season, and he has continued to shine in his new team. In just 25 IPL innings, he has amassed 1000 runs at an impressive average of 41.67 and a strike rate of 142.86.Sudharsan's achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the growing depth of talent in Indian cricket. The young opener is one of several promising players who are emerging as future stars of the game.

In a historic feat that will be etched in the annals of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Gujarat Titans' opening duo of Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill became the first pair to score individual centuries in the same match. Their remarkable achievement came against the Chennai Super Kings, showcasing their exceptional batting prowess and dominance over the opposition's bowling attack.Sudharsan, making his IPL debut, displayed maturity beyond his years, striking a magnificent 103 off just 50 deliveries. His innings was a symphony of power and precision, featuring seven towering sixes and five elegant fours. Gill, the more experienced of the two, continued his impressive form, notching up his fourth IPL century with a blistering 104 off 50 balls. His knock was adorned with nine boundaries and six maximums.The pair's partnership was a masterclass in opening batting. They complemented each other perfectly, rotating the strike with ease and punishing loose deliveries with ruthless efficiency. Their 210-run stand equaled the record set by Lucknow Super Giants' openers Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul against Kolkata Knight Riders in 2022.The Chennai Super Kings' bowlers were left helpless as Sudharsan and Gill toyed with their attack. The duo's aggressive approach and smart cricketing strategies kept the scoreboard ticking over at a rapid pace. Their dominance was such that they both reached their centuries in the same over, a testament to their exceptional timing and coordination.Unfortunately, both batters fell shortly after reaching their milestones, as they attempted to accelerate the scoring rate. However, their contributions had already secured a memorable victory for the Gujarat Titans.This historic achievement by Sudharsan and Gill is a testament to their immense talent and the depth of batting talent in the IPL. It is a moment that will be remembered for years to come and will inspire future generations of cricketers.

Gujarat Titans' skipper Shubman Gill clings to a glimmer of hope as his team faces an uphill battle to qualify for the IPL playoffs. Despite languishing at the bottom of the table, the Titans are mathematically still alive, with a mere one percent chance of making the top four.Gill expressed his optimism at the toss against Chennai Super Kings on Friday, stating, "There's 1 percent chance of qualifying, so we are going to try hard for that." He acknowledged that the mood in the dressing room is positive, with the team determined to perform to the best of their abilities.Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and elected to bowl first. CSK made one change to their lineup, bringing in Rachin Ravindra for Richard Gleeson. GT made several changes, with Matthew Wade replacing the injured Wriddhiman Saha and Kartik Tyagi making his debut in place of Joshua Little.The Titans' chances of making the playoffs are slim, but they are not yet mathematically eliminated. They will need to win their remaining matches and hope that other results go their way. Gill's positive attitude and the team's determination could potentially inspire them to overcome the odds and secure a spot in the top four.

The upcoming clash between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Ahmedabad holds immense significance for both teams. In the previous season's final, CSK emerged victorious, claiming their fifth IPL title. However, the tables have turned this year, with CSK currently occupying fourth place in the standings while GT languishes at the bottom.GT's struggles have been compounded by injuries to key players Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya. The onus now falls on captain Shubman Gill to inspire his team with both his batting and leadership. Gill, the reigning Orange Cap winner, has amassed 322 runs in 11 matches, but his opening partner Wriddhiman Saha has underperformed.GT's batting has been anchored by Tamil Nadu batter Sai Sudharsan, who has scored 424 runs in 11 matches. However, the middle-order, including David Miller, Shahrukh Khan, and Rahul Tewatia, needs to step up.In contrast, CSK's bowling attack has been impressive, with pacers Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana leading the charge. Spinners have also played a crucial role, keeping the opposition batters in check.CSK's batting has been led by captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has scored 541 runs in 11 matches. Veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni remains a key figure, and his presence on the field is sure to electrify the Ahmedabad crowd.With the first two qualifiers scheduled to be played in Ahmedabad, the crowd will have the opportunity to witness Dhoni's brilliance once again. The clash between GT and CSK promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams desperate for a victory to boost their playoff hopes.