Cricket

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain Pat Cummins admitted that his team was "totally outplayed" by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of IPL 2024. SRH suffered an eight-wicket defeat, with 57 balls remaining, largely due to Mitchell Starc's devastating new-ball spell.Starc's swing bowling accounted for the dismissals of SRH's dangerous openers, Abhishek Sharma and Rahul Tripathi. "They bowled fantastically," Cummins said at the post-match presentation. "Unfortunately, [my] old mate Starcy turned it on again. Obviously, not enough tonight, [we were] totally outplayed."SRH never recovered from Starc's early onslaught and were eventually bowled out for a paltry 113. Their longest partnership was for the ninth wicket, lasting just 22 balls. "It was a bit of a tricky wicket," Cummins said. "I think if we got 160, it would have been like we were in the game. [It] didn't feel like a 200-plus wicket, again well short. But maybe [if] we found a few extra runs [it] might've given us a chance."Despite the disappointing result in the final, Cummins praised his team's aggressive batting approach throughout the season. Openers Abhishek and Travis Head played a key role in making IPL 2024 a high-scoring season. "The style that the guys played," Cummins said, "particularly with the bat, takes a lot of skill to not only get 250, [but] also [to do it] three times. You put yourself out there a fair bit. So I loved how brave the guys were in a high-pressure situation like the IPL. They took the game on, there was a lot of fun. Fans seemed to like it, back in Hyderabad. So, great season."

KKR's Triumphant Victory: Shah Rukh Khan's Heartfelt Kiss for Gautam GambhirKolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged victorious in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 final, securing their third IPL title. The triumph was marked by an emotional moment between co-owner Shah Rukh Khan and mentor Gautam Gambhir, who shared a heartfelt kiss amidst the jubilant celebrations.Gambhir, who captained KKR to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, played a crucial role in guiding the team to victory. His strategic insights, leadership skills, and ability to motivate the players were instrumental in KKR's successful campaign.The match witnessed a sensational opening spell from Mitchell Starc, who helped KKR bowl out Hyderabad for IPL's lowest total of 113 in a final. Starc's figures of 2-14 showcased his exceptional bowling skills.Kolkata's batsmen had an easy task, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Venkatesh Iyer forming a 91-run partnership to lead the team to victory with 9.3 overs to spare.The victory was a testament to the strong bond within the KKR family. Shah Rukh Khan's kiss for Gambhir symbolized the deep respect and gratitude he holds for the mentor's unwavering dedication.

Mitchell Starc's Redemption: From Trolling to TriumphWhen Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir acquired Australian speedster Mitchell Starc for a record-breaking Rs 24.75 crore in the IPL 2022 auction, it raised eyebrows. Starc's initial performances were underwhelming, leading to criticism and mockery.However, as the tournament progressed, the 34-year-old rediscovered his rhythm. In the playoffs, he delivered two exceptional performances, silencing his detractors. In Qualifier 1 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Starc claimed three wickets for 23 runs.In the IPL Final against the same opposition, Starc once again showcased his brilliance. He returned figures of 2 for 14, while fellow quicks Andre Russell and Harshit Rana shared five wickets. SRH was dismissed for a paltry 113, the lowest total in an IPL final since 2013.Gambhir's faith in Starc was vindicated, and he was widely praised for his decision. The initial skepticism transformed into admiration and respect for the KKR mentor.Starc's resurgence is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite the initial setbacks, he remained focused and worked hard to regain his form. His performances in the playoffs and final proved that he is still one of the most dangerous bowlers in the world.The KKR victory is a collective effort, but Starc's contribution cannot be overstated. His ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace made him a formidable weapon for the Kolkata franchise.

Bollywood superstar and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) owner Shah Rukh Khan made a triumphant return to the public eye at the IPL Final against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday, just days after being hospitalized for a heat stroke. Accompanied by his wife Gauri Khan and children Suhana and Aryan, SRK witnessed KKR's remarkable bowling performance that ultimately led to their victory.SRK's appearance at the match was a testament to his unwavering support for his team, despite his recent health scare. The actor was seen wearing a mask throughout the game, but his enthusiasm and excitement were evident as he celebrated KKR's success alongside his family.Meanwhile, on the field, Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to bat first. However, KKR's bowlers put on a dominant display, restricting SRH to a modest total of 168 runs. Mitchell Starc, Vaibhav Arora, and Harshit Rana were the standout performers for KKR, taking three wickets each.In response, KKR's batters chased down the target with relative ease, thanks to a solid opening partnership between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Sunil Narine. Venkatesh Iyer and Shreyas Iyer also made significant contributions, ensuring KKR's fourth IPL title.SRK's presence at the final was a fitting end to a memorable IPL season for KKR. The team's victory was a testament to their resilience and determination, and SRK's unwavering support played a significant role in their success.

Ahead of the highly anticipated IPL 2024 final between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), skippers Shreyas Iyer and Pat Cummins engaged in a lighthearted banter that left both players in stitches.During a photoshoot for the IPL trophy, which included a visit to Chennai's Marina Beach and an auto ride, Iyer reminisced about his childhood days of riding autorickshaws. With a playful grin, he charged Cummins a hefty Rs 20 crore for the ride, a humorous reference to the Rs 20.5 crore price tag that SRH had paid for the Australian all-rounder in the IPL 2024 auction.Iyer also took a moment to ask Cummins about his experience as part of the KKR team that won the IPL in 2014. Cummins, who was a member of that victorious squad, shared his fond memories of the tournament.The banter between the two skippers highlighted the camaraderie and friendly rivalry that exists within the IPL. Both KKR and SRH have had impressive seasons, with KKR topping the points table at the end of the league stage and SRH overcoming setbacks to reach the final.The IPL 2024 final promises to be a thrilling encounter between two evenly matched teams. KKR will be looking to add to their trophy cabinet, while SRH will be determined to claim their second IPL title. The match will be played at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, May 26th.

KKR Secures Direct Final Berth with Qualifier 1 Victory over SRHKolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have stormed into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 final with a commanding victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 1. The triumph marks a remarkable achievement for KKR, who topped the league stage with an impressive record of nine wins, three losses, and two no results.KKR's dominance throughout the tournament was evident in their clinical performance against SRH. Batting first, they posted a formidable total of 187/6, thanks to a blistering half-century from Andre Russell (54 off 22 balls). The SRH bowlers struggled to contain Russell's onslaught, as he smashed four sixes and three fours in his whirlwind knock.In response, SRH's chase faltered from the outset. They lost wickets at regular intervals and were never able to build any momentum. Aiden Markram (32) and Nicholas Pooran (34) offered some resistance, but KKR's bowlers maintained a tight grip on the game.Sunil Narine was the pick of the KKR bowlers, claiming three wickets for just 22 runs in his four overs. Umesh Yadav and Andre Russell also chipped in with two wickets each, as SRH were restricted to 123/8 in their allotted 20 overs.KKR's victory was a testament to their all-round strength. Their batting lineup has been firing on all cylinders throughout the tournament, with Russell, Nitish Rana, and Shreyas Iyer leading the charge. Their bowling attack has also been impressive, with Narine, Yadav, and Russell forming a formidable trio.With their direct entry into the final, KKR will have a chance to lift their third IPL title. They will face the winner of Qualifier 2 between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Shah Rukh Khan Recovers from Heat Stroke, Departs for IPL Final in ChennaiBollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has made a swift recovery from a heat stroke and was spotted at the Mumbai airport on Sunday, departing for Chennai with his family. The actor, who is a co-owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) cricket team, is set to attend the IPL final between KKR and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Chepauk Stadium.Khan, who has been a regular presence at cricket grounds this season, has been passionately supporting his team. His energetic presence, whether cheering from the stands or engaging with players from both teams, has made him a standout co-owner. His support during KKR's Qualifier 1 match against SRH significantly boosted the morale of the "men in purple."Earlier, Khan had to be hospitalized due to a heat stroke caused by the severe heatwave in Ahmedabad. Fortunately, he was discharged a few hours later. Although Khan has not publicly addressed the incident, his manager Pooja Dadlani provided an update on Instagram, expressing gratitude on his behalf."To all of Mr Khan's fans and well-wishers - he is doing well. Thank you for your love, prayers, and concern," Dadlani captioned her post.Khan's KKR business partners Juhi Chawla and her husband Jay Mehta visited him at the Ahmedabad hospital, ensuring that he received the best care and support.As the Khan family arrives in Chennai, their presence is expected to further invigorate the KKR team ahead of the highly anticipated IPL final. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two evenly matched teams, and Khan's support will undoubtedly be a major boost for KKR.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has advised Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to stick to their batting-first strategy in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 final against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Sunday. Raina believes that SRH's captain, Pat Cummins, will play a crucial role in the match due to his recent success in winning the ODI World Cup.Raina emphasized the importance of SRH's batting lineup putting up a strong total on the board. He also highlighted the significance of the eight overs of spin bowling that SRH will have at their disposal. Raina believes that KKR's experience of winning an IPL title in Chennai will add pressure to the SRH team.However, Raina pointed out that Cummins' leadership skills and experience in winning major tournaments will be invaluable for SRH. He believes that Cummins' ability to keep the dressing room focused and organized will be key to the team's success.KKR finished the league stage at the top of the points table, earning a direct spot in the final after defeating SRH in the qualifier one. SRH, on the other hand, secured their place in the final by defeating Rajasthan Royals in the qualifier two.

Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) all-rounder Sunil Narine is on the cusp of becoming the first player in Indian Premier League (IPL) history to achieve the remarkable feat of scoring 500 runs and taking 15 wickets in a single season. With 13 matches played in IPL 2024, the Caribbean star has amassed 482 runs at an impressive strike rate of 179.85.Narine's exceptional performance as an opener has propelled him to the brink of the 500-run milestone. He requires just 18 more runs to join an elite group of KKR players who have achieved this feat in an IPL season, including Robin Uthappa, Andre Russell, and Gautam Gambhir.In addition to his batting prowess, Narine has also been a force with the ball, claiming 16 wickets at an economical rate of 6.90. His all-round contributions have been instrumental in KKR's success this season.KKR finished the league stage as table-toppers with nine wins, three losses, and two no results, earning them a direct spot in the final. They defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 1 to secure their place in the championship match.SRH, however, earned a second chance at the title by defeating Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2. The Hyderabad-based franchise will now face KKR in the highly anticipated final.