Cricket

Harbhajan Singh Raises Concerns over Mohammed Siraj's Performance, Calls for RestFormer Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has expressed concerns regarding the performance of Royal Challengers Bengaluru's fast-bowler, Mohammed Siraj, in the ongoing IPL 2024. Harbhajan believes that Siraj may benefit from both mental and physical rest following a string of disappointing performances, particularly highlighted by a difficult outing against the Mumbai Indians.Siraj has managed to secure only four wickets in six matches this season, significantly below his previous standards. His average and economy rate have also suffered, standing at 57.25 and 10.40 respectively. This is a stark contrast to his impressive showing in the IPL 2023, where he secured 10 wickets with an economy rate of 5.9 in the Powerplay overs.Harbhajan believes that Siraj's recent struggles may be due to a combination of mental and physical fatigue. He has played a significant number of matches in recent months, including four Tests against England and various other series for Team India."He should be given rest for a couple of reasons," said Harbhajan. "He should think about what has been happening in the team. He is the same Siraj that we have seen taking wickets with the new ball whether it's in Test cricket, one-day cricket or even this format in T20.""He has been a champion bowler for Team India, and even for RCB, he has done well. But I feel he's not doing what he is required to do, he requires rest, not only mentally but physically as well because he has been playing a lot of cricket."Harbhajan's comments come after RCB's disappointing performance against the Mumbai Indians, where they conceded 72 runs without taking any wickets during the Power-play overs. All RCB bowlers struggled to contain the opposition, with each of them returning with an economy rate above 10.Former Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach Brian Lara has also weighed in on RCB's performance, suggesting that their batters need to step up and make 20-30% more runs than usual."They've got to understand that with the bowling attack that they've got, they have to try and hit 20 or 30% more runs because it's just not enough," said Lara. "So they need to break their innings together and say we need to get so much in the Power-play, middle overs and the death, but nobody is getting into batting form, nobody is getting into bowling form as well, and it's a team that is just not in the top 6 or 7 in this tournament."RCB will need to address these concerns if they want to improve their performance in the remaining matches of the IPL 2024.

LSG vs DC: Lucknow Super Giants Aim to Extend Dominance Against Delhi CapitalsThe Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Delhi Capitals (DC) promises to be an intriguing encounter, with LSG holding a significant advantage heading into the match.LSG, currently third in the points table, boasts a well-rounded squad that has performed consistently throughout the tournament. Despite the potential absence of rookie pacer Mayank Yadav due to an abdominal niggle, the team has ample depth in its bowling department.In Yadav's stead, Yash Thakur, who impressed with a five-wicket haul against Gujarat Titans, is expected to lead the attack alongside Naveen-ul-Haq, Krunal Pandya, and Ravi Bishnoi.DC, on the other hand, will need to rely on their bowling unit to contain LSG's formidable batting lineup. The Capitals' bowlers have struggled for consistency this season, but they will be eager to prove their worth against a top-quality opposition.LSG's batting has been a major strength, with KL Rahul, Quinton de Kock, and Deepak Hooda forming a formidable top order. The middle order, featuring Marcus Stoinis and Ayush Badoni, has also contributed significantly.DC's batting has been more inconsistent, but they possess match-winners in David Warner, Prithvi Shaw, and Rishabh Pant. However, the team's middle order has been a concern, and they will need their lower-order batsmen to step up.The match is expected to be a close contest, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses. LSG will be the favorites, but DC will be determined to upset the odds and secure a crucial victory.

Virat Kohli's Frustration Boils Over as Umpire Denies No-Ball Call in IPL 2024Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli was left fuming after on-field umpire Nitin Menon's controversial decision to deny a waist-high no-ball to Dinesh Karthik during the IPL 2024 match against Mumbai Indians on Thursday.In the final over of RCB's innings, Karthik connected with a full-toss delivery from Akash Madhwal around his waist. However, the umpire refused to signal a no-ball, prompting Karthik to immediately request a review. Replays clearly showed that the ball was just above the waist, leaving Kohli and many social media users baffled by the decision.Kohli's frustration was evident as he engaged in an animated conversation with the umpires after the RCB innings ended. The exact nature of the conversation remains unknown, but it is clear that Kohli was unhappy with the no-ball call.The incident occurred during a thrilling match that saw Mumbai Indians chase down RCB's total of 196 for 8 with ease. Ishan Kishan (69) and Rohit Sharma (38) laid the foundation for the chase, while Suryakumar Yadav (52) and Hardik Pandya (21*) finished the game in style.Earlier, Jasprit Bumrah claimed his second five-wicket haul of the IPL, but it was not enough to prevent RCB from posting a competitive total. Faf du Plessis and Rajat Patidar scored gritty half-centuries, while Karthik provided a late flourish with a blistering 23-ball-53.Kohli's frustration over the no-ball call highlights the importance of accurate umpiring decisions in cricket. The use of technology, such as the Decision Review System (DRS), has helped to reduce errors, but it is not foolproof. Umpires still play a crucial role in making the correct calls, and their decisions can have a significant impact on the outcome of matches.

Glenn Maxwell's IPL 2024 campaign has hit a new low as the Australian all-rounder recorded his 17th duck in the tournament during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's seven-wicket defeat to Mumbai Indians on Thursday. This unwanted record ties him with Dinesh Karthik and Rohit Sharma for the most ducks in IPL history.Maxwell's struggles in this year's IPL stand in stark contrast to his impressive performance in the ODI World Cup late last year, where he played a crucial role in Australia's triumph on Indian soil. However, in six innings this season, Maxwell has managed a mere 32 runs, with a string of disappointing scores including four ducks.Maxwell's poor form is part of a wider trend of Australian players struggling at RCB. Cameron Green, who was dropped for the match against Mumbai Indians, has also failed to make an impact since joining the franchise.The Australian contingent's struggles have contributed to RCB's inconsistent start to the season. Despite boasting a star-studded lineup, the team has won only two of their first six matches.Maxwell's record-equaling duck highlights the challenges he has faced in adapting to the IPL's demanding conditions. The Australian has been known for his explosive batting, but he has struggled to find his rhythm in this year's tournament.With RCB facing a crucial stretch of matches, Maxwell will be under pressure to turn his form around. The team will need him to contribute with both bat and ball if they are to challenge for the IPL title.

Ishan Kishan, the wicketkeeper-batter for Mumbai Indians, has undergone a significant transformation since his break from cricket. Prioritizing personal growth and team success over individual accolades, Kishan is determined to help Mumbai Indians excel in the IPL 2024.During his recent break, Kishan focused on developing his cricketing skills and mindset. He practiced diligently and trained with MI skipper Hardik Pandya. This newfound approach has been evident in his performances this IPL, where he is currently the leading run-getter for MI with 161 runs from five matches.Kishan's mindset shift has also been crucial. He has learned to manage pressure and focus on what he can control. This has allowed him to play with greater freedom and confidence."I have learned that you do not have to add pressure on yourself about these things which are not in your hand," Kishan said. "You have to figure out what are controllables and what are uncontrollables."Kishan's empathy and understanding of his teammates' struggles have also contributed to his growth. He believes in supporting and motivating his fellow players, recognizing that everyone goes through ups and downs."I also know when someone is not doing well, how they feel like," Kishan said. "I also felt it changed for me, that if someone is not doing well then let's talk to them and find their mindset."Kishan's transformation has been a positive development for Mumbai Indians. His leadership and contributions on and off the field have helped the team navigate a challenging start to the IPL.While Kishan acknowledges that a berth in India's T20 World Cup squad is not in his hands, he remains focused on improving himself and helping Mumbai Indians succeed."It's a very big tournament and you do not want to overstep," Kishan said. "I am just taking one game at a time and however I can help the team, let's do it."

Mumbai Indians' captain Hardik Pandya has faced persistent booing from fans at the Wankhede Stadium, a trend that has continued since he replaced Rohit Sharma as skipper. Despite the vocal disapproval, Pandya has received support from his teammates and the franchise.After a match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Virat Kohli intervened to request fans to cease their jeering, recognizing Pandya's status as an India international. In a press conference, Mumbai Indians wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan praised Pandya's leadership and resilience.Kishan, who trained with Pandya before the IPL 2024 season, believes that Pandya's hard work and dedication will ultimately earn him the fans' appreciation. He emphasized that Pandya is not one to complain or seek sympathy, but rather to focus on his performance."He loves challenges. He has been in this situation before. He is not someone who will come out and talk about this and that. I know he is someone who works really hard off the field. On the field, he is on a very different level," said Kishan.Kishan acknowledged that fans have their expectations and opinions, but he expressed hope that they would eventually embrace Pandya as their captain. He believes that Pandya's determination and ability to perform under pressure will win over the crowd."He is happy with people doing it, in the coming games, he will do it with the bat and people will start loving him again. Because you're doing well and people will also recognize your hard work," said Kishan.Within the Mumbai Indians dressing room, there is unwavering support for Pandya. Kishan emphasized that the team is focused on supporting their captain and helping him succeed."We just don't think about him getting booed. We are there to support him. Whole team is there, the franchise is there. I just feel happy for him that he is keen on performing even in this situation," said Kishan.

The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have endured a tumultuous IPL 2024 campaign, plagued by inconsistency and underwhelming performances. Despite boasting star batter Virat Kohli, the team has struggled to find its footing, languishing in the bottom half of the table.Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has voiced his concerns, calling for drastic measures to revive RCB's fortunes. He believes that appointing Kohli as captain would ignite a fighting spirit within the team. "Virat Kohli makes his players fight," Singh asserted. "Faf du Plessis has to play, but he's sitting out because of him. One player who makes hundreds in every league is sitting out. Make Virat Kohli captain. This team will fight and then win."RCB captain Faf du Plessis has acknowledged the team's struggles, admitting that they have failed to maintain consistency. "We've tried to change things, but we haven't done well," he said. "It's time to make changes. We know we can turn this around."RCB's lack of success in the IPL is a stark contrast to the dominance of teams like Rajasthan Royals and SunRisers Hyderabad. Along with Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, RCB has been a part of the IPL since its inception in 2008, but has yet to lift the trophy.The team's batting has been inconsistent, with only Kohli showing signs of consistency. The bowling has also been underwhelming, failing to provide the necessary support. As a result, RCB finds itself in a precarious position, facing an uphill battle to qualify for the playoffs.

Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) unbeaten streak in the IPL 2024 was shattered by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a comprehensive seven-wicket defeat on Monday. The KKR batters, known for their aggressive approach, failed to deliver on the Chennai pitch, managing only 137/9 in 20 overs.Ravindra Jadeja and Tushar Deshpande led the CSK bowling attack, taking two wickets each to restrict KKR's scoring. After the match, a fan questioned KKR's strategy, suggesting that a more "selfish" approach with a player prioritizing personal milestones could have resulted in a higher score.However, former New Zealand fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan disagreed, urging KKR to stick to their fearless approach. "Sometimes you shoot for the stars and land on the moon. No biggie - their formula has worked so far no need to become selfish," McClenaghan tweeted.KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer acknowledged the team's shortcomings in assessing the wicket. "We were phenomenal in the powerplay but after that, we couldn't capitalize, we lost consecutive wickets. We weren't able to assess the conditions as quickly as possible," Iyer said.The defeat marked KKR's first loss of the season, while CSK secured their second win. The match highlighted the importance of adapting to different pitch conditions and the challenges of maintaining an unbeaten run in the competitive IPL.

Rohit Sharma's stump-mic chatter has become a regular feature in recent cricket matches, and the former Mumbai Indians captain was at it again during the IPL 2024 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.As Dinesh Karthik unleashed a flurry of boundaries against MI bowlers in the death overs, Rohit couldn't resist a playful dig at the RCB batter. "Shabash DK, World Cup khelna hain abhi," Rohit was heard saying, referring to the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.Karthik's blistering knock of 53 not out off 23 balls propelled RCB to a competitive 196/8 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The wicketkeeper-batter finished the innings in style, hitting Akash Madhwal for two sixes and a four in successive balls to garner 19 runs from the final over.Karthik's half-century came off just 22 balls, showcasing his exceptional finishing abilities. He struck five boundaries and four sixes, guiding RCB close to the 200-run mark.Rohit later clarified that his stump-mic banter is not intentional. As the captain of the Indian team, he positions himself in the slip cordon to assess DRS decisions and communicate with fielders. These conversations often get picked up by the microphone."I don't have any favorite line as such and I don't even do it deliberately," Rohit said. "Now I am the captain so I stand in the slips, because the angle from there helps me get a better look at the fielders and take stock of DRS. So I keep talking to the fielders and it gets recorded."