Cricket

Virat Kohli, the star Indian batter, has etched his name among the greatest cricketers of all time. Since his international debut in 2008, Kohli has propelled Indian cricket to unprecedented heights with his exceptional batting prowess and record-breaking achievements.Despite stepping down as T20I captain, Kohli remains on track to surpass Sachin Tendulkar's legendary feat of scoring 100 centuries in international cricket. Beyond his contributions to Team India, Kohli has been an integral part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its inception in 2008.Despite RCB's consistent performances, they have yet to claim an IPL trophy. However, the franchise boasts a massive fan base, making it one of the most popular in the league. Recently, Kohli expressed his preference for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as his favorite rivals in the IPL, over five-time champions Mumbai Indians.On Sunday, Kohli celebrated 16 years of international cricket. His debut came in an ODI against Sri Lanka in Dambulla in 2008, shortly after leading India to victory in the Under-19 World Cup.BCCI secretary Jay Shah took to social media to congratulate Kohli on his milestone, stating, "16 years ago today, a 19-year-old @imVkohli stepped onto the international stage for the first time, marking the beginning of what has become a truly legendary career. Congratulations to the King on completing 16 years in international cricket!"In his debut match, Kohli opened the batting with current India head coach Gautam Gambhir and scored 12 runs. He concluded his maiden international series with 159 runs in five matches, averaging 31.80.Since then, Kohli has evolved into a formidable batting force for India. In 295 ODIs, he has amassed 13,906 runs, including a record 50 centuries, 27 of which have come in run-chases. In 113 Test matches, he has accumulated 8,848 runs, while in 125 T20Is, he has scored 4,188 runs.

Rinku Singh, the rising star of Indian cricket, has hinted at his preferred destination if not retained by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the upcoming mega IPL auction. In an interview with Sports Tak, Rinku revealed that if KKR decide not to retain him, his next choice would be none other than Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)."I don't know anything yet. I haven't been told whether I will be retained or go into the auction. Let's see what happens," Rinku said when asked about his future with KKR. However, when pressed on which team he would prefer if not retained, he responded with a smile, "RCB."Rinku, who has been with KKR for several seasons, was part of the franchise's IPL 2024 title-winning squad. Despite a quieter season due to the 'Impact Player' rule limiting his opportunities, Rinku's potential as a dynamic finisher remains highly valued.In addition to discussing his potential move, Rinku also shared a good relationship with cricket legend Virat Kohli, who is synonymous with RCB."Virat bhaiya gave me a bat, which broke. I asked him for another one, and he didn't refuse. He gave me another bat. It's a big thing for me that he gave me a second bat," Rinku recounted, underscoring the respect and admiration he holds for Kohli.Rinku also touched upon his experience with Gautam Gambhir, the current head coach of the Indian team and his mentor during the IPL. He revealed that Gambhir, known for his serious demeanor on the field, also knows how to unwind after the game."He is very serious about the game...but after the match is over, he enjoys himself. It's not like he's always serious," Rinku shared.As the IPL auction draws nearer, Rinku's comments have sparked speculation about a possible move to RCB, a franchise known for its passionate fan base and star-studded lineup.

Team India's T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, and head coach Gautam Gambhir have rekindled their bond from their days at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). During a pre-match press conference ahead of the first T20I against Sri Lanka, Gambhir expressed regret over not fully utilizing Suryakumar's potential during their time together at KKR.Gambhir acknowledged that team combinations at the time prevented Suryakumar from batting at the No. 3 spot, a decision he now regrets. "As a leader, you think about the other 10 players as well," Gambhir explained. "If Surya had batted at No. 3, he would have been a lot more effective."Suryakumar responded with humor, suggesting that his full potential could now be utilized under Gambhir's guidance as head coach. He praised Gambhir's understanding and shared insights into their strong relationship as coach and captain. "Even when I say nothing sometimes, he understands what I want," Suryakumar stated.Suryakumar, at 33, is currently leading the T20I team in Sri Lanka and has reunited with his former KKR captain. Since making his debut for India in 2021, Suryakumar has established himself as one of the top T20I batters in the world. In 68 matches, he has scored 2340 runs at an average of 43.33 and a strike rate of 167.74, with four hundreds and 19 fifties.Gambhir's regret over not fully utilizing Suryakumar's potential highlights the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent. It also underscores the significance of a strong coach-captain relationship in bringing out the best in players. As Suryakumar and Gambhir embark on this new journey together, they aim to unlock Suryakumar's full potential and lead Team India to success.

Gautam Gambhir's appointment as the head coach of the Indian men's cricket team has sparked excitement and anticipation among fans and players alike. Joining him as potential assistant coaches are former India all-rounder Abhishek Nayar and former Dutch international Ryan ten Doeschate.Gambhir's leadership credentials are well-established. As captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), he guided the team to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. His ability to revitalize struggling teams is a testament to his strategic acumen.Gambhir's bond with ten Doeschate dates back to their time at KKR. Ten Doeschate's selfless nature and unwavering commitment to the team left a lasting impression on Gambhir. In a media interaction, Gambhir described ten Doeschate as the "greatest team man" he has ever played with, someone he could "take a bullet for."Ten Doeschate, born in South Africa but representing the Netherlands internationally, is a versatile all-rounder. His impressive statistics include an ODI average of 67 and a T20I strike rate of 132.92. He has played for numerous clubs and franchise teams around the world, including Essex, Western Province, and KKR.Ten Doeschate's character sets him apart. Known for his humility and dedication, he is considered one of the best associate players in non-Test-playing nations. His performance in the 2011 ICC World Cup, where he scored a career-best 119 against England, showcased his ability to perform on the biggest stage.With Gambhir's leadership, Nayar's all-around expertise, and ten Doeschate's selfless spirit, Team India is poised to benefit from a diverse and experienced coaching team. The upcoming tour of Sri Lanka will be a test of their collective abilities and a chance for them to shape the future of Indian cricket.

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricketer and captain, has bid farewell to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise after being appointed as the head coach of the Indian cricket team. Under Gambhir's guidance, KKR clinched their third IPL title in 2023, ending a 10-year drought.Gambhir's tenure as KKR coach was marked by a complete overhaul of the team's approach. He brought in a new opening pair of Phil Salt and Sunil Narine, who became one of the most formidable in the tournament. The spin bowling combination of Varun Chakravarthy and Narine, along with the youthful exuberance of Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora, also played a crucial role in KKR's championship victory.Gambhir's success with KKR has raised expectations among Indian cricket fans, who are eager to see him replicate his winning formula with the national team. His aggressive, never-say-die attitude is expected to inspire the Indian players to greater heights.In a heartfelt video message, Gambhir expressed his gratitude to the KKR franchise and its fans. He acknowledged the special bond he shared with Kolkata and the city's passionate cricket culture. However, he also emphasized that it was time for him to move on to a new chapter in his career."I smile when you smile. I cry when you cry. I win when you win. I lose, when you lose. I dream when you dream. I achieve when you achieve. I believe with you and I become with you. I am you, Kolkata, I am just one of you," Gambhir said in his video message."And now the time has come when we have to create some legacies together. The time has come when we have to write some bigger and bolder scripts. The script not with purple ink but in that blue, the treasured India blue. As we both take our fresh card we promise each other that we will never walk alone. It will always be shoulder-to-shoulder, hand in hand. It will all be for the tricolor. It will all be about our India," he added.Gambhir's appointment as India coach is a testament to his success with KKR and his reputation as a shrewd tactician. Indian cricket fans will be hoping that he can guide the team to numerous victories with the same aggressive, winning, and never-give-up attitude that he instilled in KKR.

Gautam Gambhir and Shah Rukh Khan Reunite at Anant Ambani's Wedding, Showcasing KKR CamaraderieAt the grand wedding ceremony of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Mumbai, newly appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) co-owner Shah Rukh Khan shared a heartwarming moment that highlighted their shared history with the KKR franchise.A video that went viral on social media captured the Bollywood superstar giving a warm embrace to the former KKR mentor. The gesture showcased the camaraderie and respect between the two prominent figures, who have played significant roles in the success of the KKR team.As a player, Gambhir led KKR to IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, showcasing his exceptional leadership skills. He then transitioned into a coaching role, guiding the KKR team to another IPL title in 2024. His coaching credentials were evident in the team's impressive performance under his mentorship.However, Gambhir's pursuit of national objectives led him to step away from the KKR franchise. He replaced Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, whose tenure ended with India's triumph in the T20 World Cup in Barbados last month.Gambhir's appointment as head coach marks a new chapter in his illustrious career. He expressed his honor and excitement to serve his country in this capacity, stating, "It is an absolute honor to serve my tricolour, my people, my country."He acknowledged the exemplary run of Rahul Dravid and his support staff, and expressed his commitment to building on their success. Gambhir's tenure will commence with the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, which is scheduled to begin on July 27.The reunion between Gambhir and Shah Rukh Khan at Anant Ambani's wedding serves as a testament to the enduring bonds forged within the KKR franchise. It also highlights the respect and admiration that exists between these two influential figures in the world of cricket.

Gautam Gambhir's appointment as head coach of the Indian cricket team has sparked excitement and anticipation ahead of the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka. Gambhir, known for his astute leadership and tactical acumen, will make his debut as head coach on July 26.Gambhir's appointment comes after the successful tenure of Rahul Dravid, who led India to victory in the T20 World Cup last month. Gambhir's credentials as a coach were solidified during his time with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under his guidance, KKR emerged as IPL champions earlier this year, ending a 10-year title drought.Ahead of Gambhir's debut series, KKR captain Shreyas Iyer has been spotted training diligently. Iyer, who was overlooked for the T20 World Cup and the ongoing tour of Zimbabwe, could benefit immensely from Gambhir's mentorship.Iyer's recent training sessions have showcased his determination and commitment. Despite the heavy rain, he was seen working out relentlessly, demonstrating his unwavering work ethic.Iyer's absence from the national team and the Central Contracts list has been a source of disappointment for the talented batter. However, Gambhir's appointment could mark a turning point in his career.Prior to the IPL, Iyer faced criticism for skipping a Ranji Trophy match due to a reported back issue. However, the NCA's contradictory fitness report raised questions about his commitment.Despite these setbacks, Iyer remained focused on his goals. He attended a pre-IPL camp with KKR and worked tirelessly to improve his fitness and performance."I had a terrific World Cup and I wanted to take a break after that and wanted to work on my body and build some strength around certain areas," Iyer said on his YouTube channel. "Due to lack of communication, there were some decisions that didn't go in my favor.""But I realized that the bat is going to be in my hand and it's on me to perform and win trophies. I decided that once I win Ranji Trophy and IPL that would be an apt answer for whatever happened in the past and thankfully everything fell into the right place. I am grateful for how it happened."With Gambhir at the helm, Iyer has a golden opportunity to revive his international career and prove his worth as a world-class batter.

Mitchell Starc, the Australian pace spearhead, played a pivotal role in Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) third Indian Premier League (IPL) title triumph in 2024. Acquired for a record-breaking Rs 24.75 crore in the players' auction, Starc lived up to his billing, delivering match-winning performances throughout the tournament.In the grand finale against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Starc was at his devastating best, claiming figures of 2-14. His fiery spell helped KKR bowl out Sunrisers for a paltry 113, the lowest total in an IPL final. Starc's performance earned him the Man of the Match award, cementing his status as one of the world's premier T20 bowlers.Starc's impact extended beyond the final. In the first playoff against Sunrisers, he produced a match-winning 3-34, once again showcasing his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. His consistent brilliance throughout the tournament played a crucial role in KKR's title triumph.However, a recent video has emerged where Starc expresses his disappointment over the prize money distribution for the IPL title. In a talk show, Starc revealed that KKR received a prize of Rs 20 crore for winning the tournament, which was less than the amount he had earned at the auction."The IPL Final presentation didn't start until midnight & basically killed the vibe. Then cheques for winning team came over, it had INR 20CR price. Angkrish (Raghuvanshi) looked at that and said - Huh! it's not even what you got paid," Starc said in the video.Despite the prize money discrepancy, Starc's contribution to KKR's title victory cannot be overstated. His exceptional bowling performances were instrumental in the team's success, and he will undoubtedly remain a key figure for KKR in the years to come.

Gautam Gambhir's appointment as the new Indian cricket team head coach has triggered a chain reaction in the coaching landscape of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). With Gambhir's departure, KKR is actively seeking a replacement, and legendary South African cricketer Jacques Kallis has emerged as a potential candidate.Kallis, who was part of KKR's playing squad during his illustrious career, has a deep understanding of the franchise and its culture. He played a pivotal role in KKR's IPL triumphs in 2012 and 2014 under Gambhir's captaincy.After retiring from playing, Kallis served as KKR's batting consultant in 2015 and was subsequently appointed head coach in 2016. He held the position for four seasons until 2019, when he stepped down to join the South Africa cricket team as their batting consultant.With Gambhir's move to the Indian team, KKR is keen on bringing Kallis back into the fold. His experience and familiarity with the franchise make him an ideal candidate to lead KKR's coaching staff.According to a report by The Telegraph, Kallis's name is "doing the rounds" as a potential replacement for Gambhir. The report states that KKR is "on the lookout for a replacement for Gambhir, who was key to its third IPL crown this year."If Kallis does return to KKR, he will be tasked with building on the success achieved under Gambhir's leadership. KKR won the IPL title in 2024 under Gambhir's guidance, and the franchise will be hoping that Kallis can continue that winning momentum.