Cricket

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has emerged as a crucial platform for players to showcase their skills and earn a spot in the Indian cricket team for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Based solely on their performances in the IPL, NDTV has compiled a 15-member squad that represents the best of Indian talent.Openers:* Ruturaj Gaikwad: The Chennai Super Kings skipper has been in scintillating form, amassing 349 runs in 8 matches with a strike rate of 142.44. His century and consistent performances make him an automatic choice.* Abhishek Sharma: The left-handed batter from Sunrisers Hyderabad has set the IPL alight with his explosive batting. With 288 runs in 8 matches at a strike rate of 218, he is a perfect fit alongside Gaikwad.* Rohit Sharma: The Indian skipper has shown glimpses of his class, scoring 311 runs in 9 matches. His aggressive approach and experience make him a valuable asset.Batters:* Virat Kohli: Despite the ongoing debate over his strike rate, Kohli remains the highest run-scorer in IPL 2024. His experience and ability to anchor the innings are crucial.* Riyan Parag: The Rajasthan Royals batter has impressed with his explosive middle-order batting. With 250 runs in 9 matches, he provides a dynamic option.* Shivam Dube: The Chennai Super Kings all-rounder has been a consistent performer, scoring 220 runs and picking up 7 wickets. His versatility makes him a valuable addition.Wicket-keepers:* KL Rahul: The Lucknow Super Giants skipper has scored 378 runs in 9 matches. His flexibility as an opener, wicket-keeper batter, or middle-order batter makes him a versatile asset.* Sanju Samson: The Rajasthan Royals skipper has been in sublime form, scoring 385 runs with four half-centuries in 9 matches. His wicket-keeping skills and aggressive batting make him a top choice.All-rounders:* Ravindra Jadeja: The Chennai Super Kings all-rounder has been a key performer, batting at No. 4 and providing crucial breakthroughs with the ball.* Axar Patel: The Delhi Capitals all-rounder has been effective with both bat and ball, scoring 134 runs and picking up 7 wickets.Bowlers:* Kuldeep Yadav: The Delhi Capitals spinner has been in excellent form, picking up 13 wickets in 9 matches.* Yuzvendra Chahal: The Rajasthan Royals spinner has also been impressive, taking 12 wickets in 9 matches. The 'Kul-Cha' partnership is a formidable spin duo.* Jasprit Bumrah: The Mumbai Indians pacer is the leading wicket-taker in IPL 2024 with 14 scalps. His pace and accuracy make him a vital cog in the bowling attack.* Sandeep Sharma: The Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer has been a revelation, taking 8 wickets with an impressive economy rate.* T Natarajan: The Sunrisers Hyderabad left-arm pacer has impressed with his performances, taking 12 wickets in 6 matches with an economy rate of 8.70.This squad represents a blend of experience, talent, and versatility. If these players can maintain their form and replicate their IPL performances in the T20 World Cup, India will be a formidable force in the tournament.

Virat Kohli, the star batter of the Indian cricket team, has been facing criticism over his strike rate and batting style in the ongoing IPL 2024. Despite being the highest run-getter in this year's competition, Kohli's approach has been questioned by some.However, Kohli has hit back at his critics, stating that he does not pay attention to the chatter surrounding his strike rate. He believes that only those who have played cricket at a high level can truly understand the complexities of the game."Not really, all the people who talk about strike-rates and me not playing spin well are the ones talking about this stuff," Kohli said after a recent match. "For me, it's about winning the games for the team and there's a reason why you've done it for 15 years, you've done this day in and day out, you've won games for your teams, I'm not quite sure that if you haven't been in that situation yourself, to sit and talk about the game in the box. For me, people can talk about their assumptions day in and day out, but those who have done day in and day out, they know what's happening and it's a kind of muscle memory for me now."Kohli's comments come after he slammed an unbeaten 70 off just 44 deliveries as Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Gujarat Titans by 9 wickets. The victory kept RCB's playoff hopes alive, and Kohli was praised for his match-winning knock.However, Kohli's critics have argued that his strike rate is too low, especially in the middle overs. They believe that he needs to be more aggressive in order to help RCB win more games.Kohli has acknowledged that he needs to improve his strike rate, but he has also defended his approach. He believes that he is a different type of player than he was earlier in his career, and that he needs to adapt his game to the demands of the modern game."I'm not going to change my game just because someone says something," Kohli said. "I'm going to play the way I know how to play, and I'm going to try to win games for my team."Kohli's comments have sparked a debate about the role of strike rate in modern cricket. Some believe that it is an important metric, while others believe that it is overvalued.Ultimately, it is up to Kohli to decide how he wants to play the game. He is a world-class player with a proven track record of success. If he believes that his current approach is the best way to help RCB win, then he should stick with it.

Virender Sehwag has launched a scathing attack on Ravichandran Ashwin for his recent statement that strike rate doesn't matter for bowlers. Sehwag, known for his outspoken nature, pointed out Ashwin's poor wicket-taking record in the ongoing IPL 2024 and suggested that the off-spinner might not find a place in the playing XI of a team coached by him."This is the same as when KL Rahul had said that the strike rate doesn't matter. Same thing. He said it for batting, Ashwin has said it for bowling that it doesn't matter if you get the wickets. If his stats aren't good, then he may not even get picked in the auction next year. When you pick a bowler, do you expect him to give away 25-30 runs or do you expect him to give you wickets and become man of the match twice or thrice?" Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.Sehwag further criticized Ashwin's bowling style, suggesting that the off-spinner is not getting wickets because he is not bowling his best deliveries. "All his competitors - Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav or anyone else - are getting the wickets. He thinks if he bowls off spin then anyone will hit him. Which is why he bowls his carrom bowl, which is why he is not getting any wickets. Maybe if he believes in his off spin or doosra, he can bag more wickets. But that's his mindset. But if I were a mentor or a coach of a franchise, I wouldn't think like that. If my bowler is thinking about saving runs and not taking wickets, he won't find a place in the team."Despite Ashwin's poor form, Rajasthan Royals have continued to support him by featuring him regularly in their playing XI. However, his spin-bowling teammate at RR, Yuzvendra Chahal, has been more prolific with 13 wickets in 9 matches and has maintained an economy rate of 9.Earlier, Ashwin had made an appeal after bowlers getting hammered in the current IPL season saying "Save the bowlers someone plsss SOS SOS SOS".

MS Dhoni, the legendary cricketer and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, has unveiled a striking new look ahead of the team's crucial IPL 2024 encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Dhoni's latest hairstyle, a half ponytail reminiscent of his iconic long-haired debut days, has garnered immense attention and nostalgia among fans.The official CSK social media handle shared the new look with the caption "7 Samurai," drawing parallels to the samurai warriors known for their distinctive topknots. Dhoni's transformation has sparked a wave of excitement and anticipation among CSK supporters.Despite facing limited deliveries in IPL 2024, Dhoni has impressed with his explosive batting, assuming the role of an out-and-out finisher for his side. The veteran wicket-keeper batter has consistently guided CSK to strong finishes, ensuring the team ends on a high note.Both CSK and Sunrisers Hyderabad will be eager to bounce back from recent defeats. CSK fell to Lucknow Super Giants due to a stunning century from Marcus Stoinis, while SRH suffered a shocking collapse against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams boasting formidable squads. CSK will rely on the experience of Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Ravindra Jadeja, while SRH will look to their in-form batters Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, and Rahul Tripathi.

Chennai Super Kings' Fortress Chepauk Breached by Lucknow Super GiantsChennai Super Kings (CSK), under the leadership of new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, had a promising start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. However, their momentum was halted by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), who emerged victorious in their last two encounters.In a stunning turn of events, the Chepauk fortress, CSK's home ground, was breached by LSG. The visitors chased down a formidable target of 210 with ease, thanks to a brilliant century from Marcus Stoinis.The match began with CSK posting a competitive total of 210/7 on the board. Gaikwad led the charge with a well-crafted 65, while Shivam Dubey contributed a quickfire 45. However, LSG's bowlers, led by Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan, kept the CSK batters in check.In response, LSG openers Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul provided a solid foundation with a 75-run partnership. Stoinis then took center stage, smashing a breathtaking 104 off just 56 deliveries. His innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, featuring 10 fours and 8 sixes.Despite a late cameo from Deepak Hooda, CSK's bowlers were unable to contain Stoinis' onslaught. LSG cruised to victory with 10 balls to spare, handing CSK their third consecutive defeat.The loss has raised concerns about CSK's form and their ability to defend their title. The team has struggled to find consistency in both batting and bowling, and their fielding has also been below par.Meanwhile, LSG's victory has propelled them to the top of the IPL standings. Stoinis' heroics have been a major factor in their success, and the team will be hoping to continue their winning ways in the upcoming matches.

Gujarat Titans to Face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024 ClashGujarat Titans (GT) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will lock horns in Match 45 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on April 28.Match Information:* Match: Gujarat Titans vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Match 45* Date: April 28, 2024* Time: 03:30 PM IST* Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, AhmedabadTeam Previews:Gujarat Titans, currently ranked seventh on the points table, will be looking to improve their position after a narrow defeat to Delhi Capitals in their previous match. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, on the other hand, are languishing at the bottom of the table and will be desperate for a win to revive their campaign.Pitch Report and Weather Conditions:The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium is expected to favor batters, with an average first-innings score of 170 runs. The weather forecast predicts a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius and humidity of 13%.Head-to-Head:In the three previous encounters between these teams, Royal Challengers Bengaluru's batters have earned the most fantasy points, while Gujarat Titans' bowlers have been the top performers.Dream11 Top Captain and Vice-Captain Picks:* Captain: Virat Kohli (RCB)* Vice-Captain: Mohit Sharma (GT)Other Key Players:* Cameron Green (RCB)* Lockie Ferguson (RCB)* Will Jacks (RCB)* Sai Sudharsan (GT)* Rajat Patidar (RCB)* Rashid Khan (GT)* Sai Kishore (GT)* Shahrukh Khan (GT)Squad Information:Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), Kane Williamson, Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, David Miller, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Mohit Sharma, Abhinav Manohar, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Rashid Khan, Joshua Little, Sai Kishore, Darshan Nalkande, Azmatullah Omarzai, BR Sharath, Kartik Tyagi, Spencer Johnson, Sai Sudharsan, Manav Suthar, Sushant Mishra, Matthew Wade, Noor AhmadRoyal Challengers Bengaluru: Faf du Plessis (c), Dinesh Karthik, Virat Kohli, Swapnil Singh, Karn Sharma, Glenn Maxwell, Reece Topley, Lockie Ferguson, Tom Curran, Alzarri Joseph, Mahipal Lomror, Rajat Patidar, Mohammed Siraj, Mayank Dagar, Cameron Green, Will Jacks, Suyash Prabhudessai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Manoj Bhandage, Anuj Rawat, Yash Dayal, Akash Deep, Saurav Chauhan, Rajan Kumar, Himanshu SharmaConclusion:The clash between Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams eager to secure a victory. The match will be streamed live on Star Sports and Disney+ Hotstar.

Mumbai Indians' struggles continued in the ongoing IPL 2024 as they suffered a sixth defeat, this time at the hands of Delhi Capitals in a thrilling encounter on Saturday. The loss has further intensified the scrutiny on skipper Hardik Pandya, who has faced criticism since taking over the reins from Rohit Sharma.Despite the team's poor form, there have been no public statements of a rift between Rohit and Hardik. However, during Saturday's match, an unusual role reversal occurred on the field. Rohit was seen setting the field while Hardik looked on, sparking speculation about the dynamics within the team.Coming to the match, Delhi Capitals posted a formidable 257/4, thanks to a blistering half-century from Jake Fraser-McGurk. Rasikh Salam Dar and Mukesh Kumar then starred with the ball for Delhi, claiming three wickets each to secure the victory.After the match, Hardik Pandya acknowledged the team's shortcomings. "We could have taken a couple of more chances in the middle overs," he said. "The left-handers could have probably gone after Axar a little bit."Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant praised Fraser-McGurk's performance. "He's been amazing since the first day," Pant said. "This is what you want from a younger player."Pant also expressed confidence in his team's chances of making the playoffs. "The chances are increasing day by day, but we are taking it one game at a time," he said.The defeat leaves Mumbai Indians languishing at the bottom of the table, while Delhi Capitals move up to third place. The two teams will face off again on May 10 in a crucial match that could have significant implications for their playoff hopes.

Chennai Super Kings Aim to Regain Form Against Sunrisers HyderabadChennai Super Kings (CSK) will face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) match at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. CSK, who have lost their last two matches, will be eager to regain their form at home, while SRH will be looking to bounce back from their defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore.CSK have a strong record against SRH, having won 14 out of their 20 encounters. However, SRH have been in impressive form this season, with their opening duo of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma setting the stage alight.CSK will need to find a way to counter SRH's explosive batting lineup. They may consider introducing Moeen Ali into the attack early to stifle Head and Sharma. Deepak Chahar, who has dismissed Sharma twice in two innings, will also be key.SRH, on the other hand, will be wary of CSK's bowling attack, which includes the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jaydev Unadkat. They will need to get off to a good start and build a solid foundation.The pitch at Chepauk has been conducive to high-scoring matches this season, so both teams will be looking to put up a big total. CSK will be hoping that Ajinkya Rahane, who has struggled for form this season, can find his rhythm and provide some stability at the top of the order.SRH will be relying on Aiden Markram to anchor their innings and provide some stability in the middle order. Markram has been a quiet figure for SRH this season, but he showed his worth with a crucial fifty in the last match between these two sides.The match promises to be a close and exciting contest, with both teams desperate for a win. CSK will be looking to regain their form at home, while SRH will be aiming to bounce back from their recent defeat.

Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson, two of the most celebrated cricketers of the modern era, share a bond that transcends the boundaries of competition. Their friendship, forged during their Under-19 World Cup days in 2008, has endured the rigors of international cricket and the intense rivalry between their respective teams.Kohli and Williamson emerged as pivotal figures in their teams during that tournament, showcasing their exceptional talent and leadership qualities. Over the years, they have established themselves as stalwarts of the game, amassing an impressive array of accolades and inspiring countless young cricketers.Their mutual respect and admiration for each other's abilities have been evident throughout their careers. In interviews, they have consistently praised each other's achievements, acknowledging their exceptional skills and leadership qualities. This camaraderie extends beyond the field, as they have often been seen interacting warmly off the pitch.As Royal Challengers Bangalore and Gujarat Titans prepare to face off in the IPL 2024 encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the spotlight will once again shine on the friendship between Kohli and Williamson. The matchup brings a sense of nostalgia, as the two cricket icons prepare to battle it out on the field.Despite their competitive nature, their off-field bond remains unbreakable. In a recent video shared by Gujarat Titans, Kohli and Williamson are seen greeting each other with warmth and camaraderie. This moment serves as a testament to the enduring friendship between two of the greatest cricketers of our time.