Cricket

The highly anticipated "El Clasico" of the Indian Premier League (IPL) between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) on Sunday lived up to its billing, with CSK emerging victorious in a thrilling encounter.The match witnessed exceptional performances from both sides. Youngsters like Mukesh Choudhary and Tilak Varma shone for CSK, while Rohit Sharma's century for MI was a testament to his class. However, it was MS Dhoni's blistering 20 runs off just four balls that sealed the deal for CSK.Despite their loss, MI still have a chance to qualify for the playoffs. However, they will not have the opportunity to avenge their defeat against CSK in the league stage of IPL 2024. This is because the teams have been placed in different groups.MI is in Group A alongside Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Super Giants, and Delhi Capitals. CSK, on the other hand, is in Group B with Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Titans, Punjab Kings, and Royal Challengers Bangalore.According to the IPL 2024 format, teams within the same group face each other twice in home and away matches. Additionally, they play four matches against teams from the other group, either at home or away. Against one of the five teams, they play both at home and away.The draw for IPL 2024 has resulted in MI facing CSK only once in the league stage. Therefore, it is impossible for MI to avenge their Sunday loss during the league stage.However, if both teams qualify for the playoffs and face off again, it will provide MI with an opportunity to seek redemption.

Rachin Ravindra, the young Kiwi batter, has made an immediate impact in the IPL 2024, showcasing his exceptional batting and fielding skills for the Chennai Super Kings. In his first two matches, Ravindra has impressed with back-to-back impressive knocks, including a whirlwind 46 off just 20 balls against the Gujarat Titans.However, in the field, Ravindra had a forgettable moment when he dropped a crucial catch of Sai Sudharsan in the 15th over during Gujarat's run chase. During a promotional event, when asked about the incident, Ravindra revealed that he had looked at MS Dhoni, the former CSK captain, for guidance.Dhoni, known for his calm and composed demeanor, intervened with a hilarious reply, saying, "Well, there's a new captain!" Dhoni explained that he refrains from reacting to such incidents, especially when the player is young and inexperienced. He also drew parallels between the new skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and himself, saying that Gaikwad is quite similar in his approach."It (muscle memory) is there. But, I am not somebody who reacts a lot, especially when somebody is playing his first game or second game. I think Rutu (Ruturaj) is quite the same. But it was fun to watch him (Rachin) move all round the ground," Dhoni added.Ravindra, who has quickly become a fan favorite among CSK supporters, has enthralled audiences with his audacious stroke-play. While he has narrowly missed out on a half-century in both matches, Dhoni, the team's 'spiritual skipper,' would be pleased with Ravindra's performances, knowing that his choice was well-founded.Dhoni's decision to pass on the Chennai captaincy to Gaikwad ahead of the IPL 2024 surprised many fans, but it appears that the transition has been smooth. Gaikwad, like Dhoni, is a calm and composed leader who is not prone to emotional outbursts.Ravindra's impressive start to the IPL 2024 is a testament to his talent and potential. With his ability to contribute both with the bat and in the field, he is a valuable asset to the Chennai Super Kings. As the tournament progresses, it will be interesting to see how Ravindra continues to develop and contribute to CSK's success.

Dhruv Jurel, a rising star in Indian cricket, has drawn comparisons to the legendary MS Dhoni after his impressive performances in the recent Test series. His composed and impactful displays have earned him accolades from both fans and cricketing legends alike.During the series, Jurel's contributions in both innings of the Ranchi Test match were particularly noteworthy. In the first innings, he forged a crucial partnership with Kuldeep Yadav, guiding India to a competitive total. In the tense run chase, he once again rose to the occasion, forming a match-winning stand with Shubman Gill to secure victory for India.Jurel's ability to remain composed under pressure and deliver crucial performances has led to significant praise from renowned figures within the cricketing fraternity. Sunil Gavaskar, one of India's cricketing greats, stated, "I want to say that he is another MS Dhoni in the making. I know there can never be another MSD but you know the presence of mind that he has, MSD also when he started, it was that. And Jurel has that game awareness. Street-smart cricketer."Sourav Ganguly, ex India captain and former BCCI chief, echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging Jurel's talent while urging caution against premature comparisons to Dhoni. "Dhruv Jurel… what a Test match he had under pressure on a difficult wicket. There is huge talent and if you miss and you go back down in the ladder, it will be very hard to come back. MS Dhoni is in a different league. Jurel has talent; there's no doubt about it. But it took MS Dhoni 20 years to be MS Dhoni. Rather 15 years for Dhoni to be Dhoni. So let him [Jurel] play. Jurel's ability to play spin, pace and most importantly to perform under pressure. That's what you look for in a youngster," Ganguly was quoted as saying by RevSportz.Jurel's emergence has captured widespread attention, with his performances drawing comparisons to the legendary MS Dhoni. Amidst the impressive debuts of Sarfaraz Khan and Akash Deep, Jurel's composed and impactful displays have stood out, earning him accolades from both fans and cricketing legends alike.