Cricket

AbRam Khan's Bowling Skills Impress Kolkata Knight Riders' Rinku SinghIn a heartwarming display of off-the-field camaraderie, a viral video has emerged on social media showcasing the bowling skills of AbRam Khan, the youngest son of Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan. The video captures AbRam engaging in a friendly cricket session with Kolkata Knight Riders' batsman Rinku Singh, under the watchful gaze of his father, Shah Rukh Khan, who was clad in the vibrant colors of the KKR team.The video has garnered significant attention across various social media platforms, highlighting the genuine connection shared between the celebrity son and the professional cricketer. Despite the playful nature of the encounter, it sheds light on the bond that transcends the realms of Bollywood stardom and professional cricket.On the field, KKR, after a promising start to the season, have faced setbacks of late, losing three out of their last five matches in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2024 campaign. However, Rinku Singh, a consistent performer for KKR, remains a pivotal asset for the team, accumulating a total of 112 runs from eight innings. Hopes are high for Rinku to deliver exceptional performances in the upcoming matches.In the wake of their recent defeat to the Punjab Kings, the Kolkata Knight Riders are gearing up to confront the Delhi Capitals in their next IPL encounter scheduled to take place at the historic Eden Gardens Stadium on Monday.

Rinku Singh, the rising star of the Kolkata Knight Riders, has become a fan favorite not only for his exceptional batting skills but also for his off-field antics. His social media presence has been a major factor in his popularity, with his fans eagerly sharing his activities outside the cricket pitch.Recently, Rinku appeared on the KKR Dugout Podcast alongside coach Abhishek Nayar, where he showcased his impressive ability to imitate other players. When asked by host Cyrus Broacha to mimic various cricketers, Rinku enthusiastically recreated the batting stances of Nitish Rana and Virat Kohli, as well as the bowling action of Varun Chakravarthy.Rinku's off-field antics have also extended to his interactions with Virat Kohli. Earlier this season, Rinku received a bat from Kohli, marking the second time the Indian captain had gifted him a bat. In a viral video, Rinku was seen requesting another bat from Kohli, who appeared slightly amused when Rinku mentioned that he had broken the previous one.After KKR's thrilling one-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Eden Gardens, Rinku approached Kohli once again for another bat. In a video posted by KKR on social media, Rinku explained to Kohli that the bat he had received earlier had broken while facing a spinner.It seems that Rinku's request was not in vain, as he has now received a new bat from Kohli. In a trending video on social media, the left-handed batter is seen showing off the bat to a fan.Rinku's off-field antics have not only entertained his fans but have also highlighted his close relationship with Virat Kohli. The young batter's ability to connect with fans on a personal level has contributed to his growing popularity, making him one of the most talked-about players in the Indian Premier League.

Rinku Singh, the Kolkata Knight Riders' star batter, recently shared a deeply personal story on the Knights Dugout Podcast. He revealed the profound significance of the tattoo on his right arm, which serves as a constant reminder of the transformative moment that changed his life forever.The tattoo, etched into his skin at the pivotal moment of his selection for the KKR team, bears the word "family" along with a rose and a peace symbol. It represents the profound impact that his entry into the IPL had on his family's fortunes."This was made when I was picked for KKR. I think it was 2:20 PM. My family's life changed from that very point. I was auctioned for Rs 80 lakh. So the money solved all the family problems. We could repay all the debt. So my life changed from then," said the 26-year-old batter.Rinku's journey to becoming a professional cricketer has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. His tattoo serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles he has overcome and the success he has achieved."I have inked the word family here, a rose, and a symbol of peace," Rinku explained, adding a touch of sentimentality to his explanation.On a lighter note, Rinku also shared an amusing anecdote involving a monkey. He humorously recounted how a monkey bit him six times, suggesting that the animal may have developed an unusual fondness for him."Monkey had bitten me six times. It was the same monkey. I think he fell in love with me," he admitted with a chuckle.Despite the occasional monkey encounters, Rinku remains a crucial asset for his team. With a total of 112 runs from eight innings, he continues to be a force to be reckoned with. KKR fans eagerly anticipate his contributions in the upcoming matches.Following their defeat to the Punjab Kings, the Kolkata Knight Riders are set to face the Delhi Capitals in their next IPL 2024 season match at the Eden Gardens Stadium on Monday.

Shah Rukh Khan's Son Abram Steals the Show at Eden Gardens with Adorable ReactionBollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's son, Abram, became the center of attention during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings on Friday. The adorable toddler's reaction to the game's events captivated the internet.Abram accompanied his father to the Eden Gardens in Kolkata to witness KKR's dominant performance against a struggling Punjab Kings. As KKR posted their second-highest total in IPL history (261 for 6), the batters put on a batting clinic.Skipper Shreyas Iyer played a crucial role in KKR's run-fest, scoring a quickfire 28 off just 10 deliveries. However, his dismissal in the penultimate over left Abram visibly disappointed, with the youngster placing his hands on his head in frustration.KKR's massive total was built on the back of dazzling half-centuries from Philip Salt (75) and Sunil Narine (71), as well as sharp cameos from the middle-order batters. Arshdeep Singh was the most successful bowler for Punjab Kings, claiming two wickets for 45 runs.With five wins and two defeats, KKR currently occupy the second spot on the IPL points table. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, find themselves languishing in ninth place with six defeats in eight games.Abram's adorable reaction to the match highlights the passion and excitement that the IPL generates among fans of all ages. His presence at the Eden Gardens added a touch of star power to the already electrifying atmosphere.

Sunil Narine, the enigmatic all-rounder for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has emerged as a formidable force in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. His blistering performance in the Powerplay has propelled him to the top of the scoring charts, alongside Virat Kohli and Travis Head.Narine's blistering 71-run knock off just 32 deliveries against the Punjab Kings showcased his exceptional hitting prowess. The innings was studded with nine boundaries and four towering sixes, leaving the opposition bowlers in awe. This performance not only earned him the Player of the Match award but also cemented his position as one of the most dangerous batsmen in the tournament.Narine's Powerplay dominance has been a key factor in KKR's recent resurgence. He has amassed 204 runs in the Powerplay at an astonishing strike rate of 177.39, placing him third on the list behind Head and Kohli. His ability to find the boundary with ease has given KKR a solid foundation to build upon in the middle overs.In addition to his batting exploits, Narine has also made a significant contribution with the ball. His economical bowling has helped KKR restrict opposition teams to manageable totals. His all-round abilities make him an invaluable asset to the team, and he is undoubtedly one of the most influential players in the IPL.Narine's rise to prominence has been a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has consistently improved his batting skills, and his ability to clear the boundary with ease has made him a nightmare for bowlers. As the IPL progresses, Narine will be looking to continue his impressive form and help KKR challenge for the title.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have replaced Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc with Sri Lankan seamer Dushmantha Chameera for their match against Punjab Kings at the Eden Gardens on Friday. KKR captain Shreyas Iyer revealed at the toss that Starc had sustained a finger injury during their previous encounter against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).Starc's IPL campaign with KKR has been underwhelming so far. Despite being acquired for a record sum of INR 24.75 crore (USD 2.98 million approx.) at the auction, he has managed only six wickets while conceding runs at an alarming rate of 11.48 per over.In the match against RCB, Starc was entrusted with the responsibility of bowling the final over, tasked with defending 21 runs. However, he was ruthlessly targeted by No. 9 batsman Karn Sharma, who smashed three sixes off his bowling. Starc eventually managed to take a return catch to seal the victory, but his figures of 1 for 55 from three overs were far from impressive.This was the third time this season that Starc has conceded 50 or more runs in a game, including the second consecutive match. His best performance came against Lucknow Super Giants in a day game at Eden Gardens, where he claimed three wickets and conceded only 28 runs.Starc is making his return to the IPL after an eight-year hiatus. His last appearance in the tournament was in 2015 for RCB, where he took 20 wickets at an economy rate of 6.76.In an interview ahead of the match against Kings, Starc did not mention his finger injury. Instead, he spoke about his return to the IPL and the lessons he has learned from the experience."Coming back, obviously a different team to where I was last in the IPL, so getting to meet a lot of the guys I have played against a little bit... Some younger guys in the KKR squad, getting to know a few of the younger bowlers," he said. "There's a lot of talent around with bat and ball.""I'm getting to know how these guys go about it and learn from them as well, and try and answer any questions they've got. I've come back an older player than when I was last in the IPL, but it's a lot of fun."For Chameera, this will be his first appearance of the season. It is his second stint in the IPL, having played for RCB in 2022.

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram, renowned for his exceptional bowling prowess, recently reminisced about his time as the bowling coach of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) from 2010 to 2016. During a recent interaction, Akram shared a memorable anecdote involving a young Sanju Samson, who was then a shy 16-year-old.Akram recalled that due to a shortage of bowlers in the camp, he had the opportunity to bowl in the nets. As Samson came to bat, Akram noticed his quiet demeanor and impressive wicketkeeping skills. However, it was Samson's batting that caught Akram's attention.Akram began by testing Samson with a couple of outswingers, but the youngster remained unfazed. Determined to make an impact, Akram unleashed an inswinging delivery that rattled Samson's stumps. Akram couldn't resist giving Samson a playful send-off, recognizing his potential as a future star."At that time, he did not get a chance, but I felt that he had the potential to become a good player in the future," Akram said. "He was silent. He was a young kid. When big names are around you, you tend to come under pressure. I was with him for a short time only, but I got that feeling that he can become a good player."Samson's journey since then has been remarkable. He has emerged as a key player for Rajasthan Royals, leading the franchise to the top of the table in the ongoing IPL season. Akram's early assessment of Samson's talent has proven to be accurate, as the youngster has blossomed into a formidable batsman.

Kolkata Knight Riders Skipper Shreyas Iyer Embraces Pressure, Targets Top Spot in IPL 2024Ahead of the crucial clash against Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders captain Shreyas Iyer has expressed his unwavering belief in thriving under pressure. In an interview with Star Sports, Iyer emphasized the importance of expectations in driving his performance."I always have high expectations for myself," Iyer said. "Expectations are necessary because without them, I won't feel the pressure to perform. I personally love and thrive on the pressure to deliver."Iyer's philosophy aligns with the team's current form, as KKR has emerged victorious in five of their last seven IPL matches. The Kolkata-based franchise is brimming with confidence, aiming to secure a top position in the league stage.With seven matches remaining, KKR will face a stern test against Punjab Kings, who have struggled this season. However, Iyer remains unfazed, recognizing the importance of a win against an underperforming opponent."A win against Punjab Kings could be crucial for us," Iyer said. "They may not be in the best form, but we can't take them lightly. We need to focus on our game and execute our plans."Iyer's individual performances have been impressive, with the skipper amassing 190 runs from seven matches. His crucial 50-run innings against Royal Challengers Bengaluru played a pivotal role in KKR's victory.Under the guidance of mentor Gautam Gambhir, Iyer and his team are determined to make a strong push for the playoffs. With their current momentum and Iyer's leadership, KKR is well-positioned to achieve their goals.

Punjab Kings' skipper Shikhar Dhawan, who has been sidelined with a shoulder injury, will miss the team's match against Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday. The team hopes to have him back for their next game against Chennai Super Kings on May 1.Dhawan last played against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 9 and has missed three matches since then. Sam Curran has stepped in as captain in his absence.PBKS spin bowling coach Sunil Joshi said Dhawan is recovering and could return for the team's next game in Chennai."He was in form and we really missed his batting services. We saw him batting yesterday, going through the nets and everything," Joshi said on the eve of their match against KKR."He is on the road to recovery. Hopefully, he should be fit for the next game (against CSK)," he said.PBKS have struggled as a batting unit and are ninth on the table with four points from eight matches.Jitesh Sharma's StrugglesWicket-keeper batter Jitesh Sharma has been a disappointment for PBKS in the ongoing IPL. Once considered a contender for India's first-choice wicketkeeper, Sharma has scored just 128 runs from eight innings at an average of 16.00 and a strike rate of 125.49.Joshi attributed Sharma's struggles to the pressure of meeting expectations."Jitesh is a quality batter and we all know that the time has come for him to fire tomorrow. And yes, of course, there are multiple players in the whole IPL," Joshi said."They are all eager to be in the T20 World Cup squad. But at times, most of the players are in that phase that (the thought of) making it to the Indian team will always keep haunting. So, it's about focusing on basic, right things."Joshi said Sharma needs to focus on performing one ball at a time and not worry about the Indian team selection.Pressure on KKRJoshi believes the pressure will be on KKR to perform and win at home."We've come out of home. The pressure should be on the home team now so we can play freely and get runs," he said.