Cricket

In a thrilling encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) surpassed Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to become the team with the most sixes in T20 history. Led by Pat Cummins, SRH chased down a formidable 215-run target set by Punjab Kings (PBKS) with five balls to spare.Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen were the architects of SRH's victory, smashing 66 and 42 runs respectively. Sharma's blistering knock included five fours and six sixes, while Klaasen contributed three fours and two sixes. Nitish Kumar Reddy also chipped in with a valuable 37.PBKS had earlier posted a challenging total of 214/5, thanks to a half-century from Prabhsimran Singh (71) and significant contributions from Rilee Rossouw (49) and Atharva Taide (46). T Natarajan was the pick of the SRH bowlers, claiming two wickets for 33 runs.With this victory, SRH equaled the record for scoring the most 200-plus totals in a single IPL edition, joining the likes of Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, and RCB. They now have eight wins and five losses in the ongoing IPL 2024, placing them second in the points table.PBKS, on the other hand, remain in ninth place with five wins and nine losses. Arshdeep Singh was their most impressive bowler, taking two wickets for 37 runs.Abhishek Sharma was adjudged the Player of the Match for his match-winning fifty.

Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings Clash in Crucial IPL MatchSunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will face off in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Sunday, May 15, at 10:00 AM GMT in Hyderabad.SRH's Fate UncertainSRH's fate in the playoffs is uncertain after their last match against Gujarat Titans was washed out. Even if they defeat PBKS, they need Rajasthan Royals to lose against Kolkata Knight Riders later in the day to secure a top-two finish. SRH's last outing before the GT game was a dominant chase against Lucknow Super Giants on May 8, raising questions about whether they will be rusty or rejuvenated after a ten-day break.PBKS Out of Playoff RacePBKS were eliminated from the playoffs long ago, and several of their overseas players have returned home. With nothing to lose, this match presents an opportunity for domestic players to showcase their skills.Form GuideSRH: WLWLL (last five completed matches)PBKS: WLLWWPrevious MeetingIn their previous encounter, SRH posted 182/9 thanks to Nitish Kumar Reddy's 64 off 37 balls. PBKS fell short by two runs despite a valiant effort from Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma.Team News and Impact Player StrategySRH:* May consider bringing back Aiden Markram for Sri Lankan legspinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth.* Abhishek Sharma or T Natarajan could be their Impact Players.PBKS:* Rishi Dhawan and Atharva Taide may get a chance in the absence of Curran and Bairstow.* Prabhsimran Singh and Arshdeep Singh are likely Impact Player options.In the Spotlight: Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal PatelBhuvneshwar Kumar has been in impressive form lately, taking seven wickets in his last four matches. Harshal Patel, the leading wicket-taker of the season, will have extra responsibility with Rabada and Curran unavailable.Stats that Matter* Bhuvneshwar has dismissed Prabhsimran three times in 11 balls.* Rossouw has struggled against Bhuvneshwar and Pat Cummins.* Abhishek has a strong record against Arshdeep.* Harshal has dismissed Klaasen three times.* Reddy has enjoyed batting against Harpreet Brar.Pitch and ConditionsHyderabad has been a high-scoring venue this IPL, but there is a 30% chance of rain.

Virat Kohli's Witty Banter with Kagiso Rabada Lights Up IPL 2024As the Punjab Kings prepared to face the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Dharamsala, Virat Kohli, the RCB star and current Orange Cap holder, showcased his witty side. In a viral video, Kohli engaged in a friendly banter with PBKS pacer Kagiso Rabada while the latter was recording a podcast.Rabada was participating in the 'Willow Talk Podcast' when he noticed Kohli dancing in front of him. Moments later, Kohli gatecrashed the podcast, entertaining viewers with his hilarious one-liners. Rabada jokingly accused Kohli of considering him a "weak bowler," setting the stage for an intriguing battle between the two players in the upcoming match.Kohli has been in exceptional form this IPL season, amassing 634 runs in 12 matches, including five half-centuries and one century. His strike rate of 148.09 has been a testament to his aggressive batting style. Rabada, on the other hand, has also had a solid season, claiming 11 wickets in as many matches.Despite RCB's slim chances of making the playoffs, they can still qualify if they win their remaining two fixtures. PBKS, however, have been eliminated from contention after their defeat against RCB.Kohli's witty banter with Rabada has added a touch of humor to the intense IPL competition. The upcoming match between PBKS and RCB promises to be an exciting affair, with the battle between Kohli and Rabada taking center stage.

Virat Kohli's scintillating 92 off 47 balls, featuring a strike rate of 195, propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a commanding 60-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Thursday. Kohli's innings was the cornerstone of RCB's impressive 241/7 total, silencing critics who had questioned his strike rate and intent.Kohli's knock was a masterclass in timing and power. He used his feet and wrists effectively, dispatching the ball to all parts of the ground. He reached his fifty in just 32 balls and continued to accelerate, smashing seven fours and six maximums.Kohli's partnerships with Rajat Patidar (55 off 23 balls) and Cameron Green (46 off 27 balls) were crucial in RCB's dominant performance. Patidar provided the early momentum with his six maximums and three fours, while Green's late onslaught helped RCB cross the 200-mark.PBKS's bowling attack struggled to contain RCB's onslaught. Pacer Vidhwath Kaverappa picked up two wickets in the powerplay but was let down by dropped catches. Sam Curran and Harshal Patel also leaked runs, allowing RCB to score 56 in the powerplay and continue the momentum throughout the innings.In response, PBKS managed only 181/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Shikhar Dhawan (43) and Liam Livingstone (32) provided some resistance, but RCB's bowlers kept them in check. Patel was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets in the final over.Kohli's performance was particularly significant as it ended the debate surrounding his strike rate and intent. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif praised Kohli's willingness to go for big shots, stating that his dismissal while attempting a six should put an end to the criticism.RCB's victory was a testament to their team effort and the brilliance of Virat Kohli. The win strengthens their position in the IPL standings and gives them a much-needed boost ahead of the playoffs.

Punjab Kings' (PBKS) IPL 2024 campaign came to an abrupt end after a disappointing 60-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Assistant coach Brad Haddin attributed the loss to a series of costly dropped catches in the field.PBKS endured a nightmare start, dropping three catches in the first five overs. Virat Kohli, who went on to score 92 runs, was dropped twice on 0 and 10, while Rajat Patidar, who scored 55, was also dropped on 0. These missed opportunities proved pivotal as both batsmen played key roles in RCB's massive total of 241/7.Chasing a daunting target, PBKS showed some fight with Rilee Rossouw's 27-ball 61 and Shashank Singh's 37 runs in 19 balls. However, a flurry of wickets in the middle overs derailed their chase, and they were eventually bowled out for 181."100 percent we lost the match because of dropped catches," Haddin admitted at the post-match presentation. "We dropped two guys on a duck, and both of them scored big runs. That was where the game was lost."Despite the disappointing result, Haddin emphasized the positives from the season and urged the team to finish on a high note. "It is disappointing, but it should not be tough work to motivate the boys," he said. "This is one of the premier competitions in the world. It's a great opportunity to show your skills."Haddin also revealed that Kagiso Rabada's absence from the playing XI was due to illness. Stand-in skipper Sam Curran echoed Haddin's sentiments, saying the team would focus on the positives and continue to work hard."A lot of positive signs throughout the season, but not enough to get over the line, unfortunately," Curran said. "We have to keep our heads up, keep learning, and keep becoming better."

Virat Kohli's unwavering commitment to excellence was once again evident as he led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a resounding 60-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) match in Dharamsala. His emphatic statement, "For me, it's still quality over quantity," served as a resounding response to his critics.Kohli's performance was instrumental in RCB's triumph, showcasing his unwavering focus on delivering results when it matters most. His 92 runs off just 47 deliveries formed the backbone of RCB's innings, featuring crucial partnerships with Rajat Patidar (55 off 23 balls) and Cameron Green (46 off 27 balls).Kohli's response reflects his unwavering confidence and dedication to his team, underscoring his reputation as a player who prioritizes the success of his team over personal milestones. "For me, it's still quality over quantity. For me, it works really well. Also, the understanding of the game allows you to practice less, just try to replicate what I have done in the past. Still aiming to improve aspects of the game that you want to get better at. It's an evolving process," Kohli said at the post-match presentation.Kohli's commitment to improving his game was evident in his execution of the slogsweep against the spinners. "I didn't practice it, I know I have hit it in the past. Always looking to expose that side of the field against spin. I know I need to take risks, it needs a bit of conviction. I have been managing to stay ahead of that thought," he added.Kohli's determination to maintain a high strike rate for himself and his team was also evident. "I am trying to keep up with the strike rate for me and the team. The only way to go through a tournament is to be honest with ourselves. We had those losses on the trot, we just had an honest conversation. We needed to pull up our socks. That game against KKR went down to the wire. We wanted to play for our self-respect. We just can't go out there and play in such a way and disappoint our fans. The confidence is back, and we are on a roll. We wouldn't have to depend on several other aspects (had we played better earlier in the tournament)," Kohli said.This victory marks RCB's fourth consecutive win, elevating them to 10 points in the standings. On the other hand, Punjab Kings' hopes for a playoff berth were dashed, as they are now eliminated from contention, unable to surpass a maximum of 12 points from their remaining two fixtures.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured a crucial 60-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Thursday, keeping their playoff hopes alive.Virat Kohli was the star of the show for RCB, smashing a blistering 92 off 47 deliveries. He formed a formidable partnership with Rajat Patidar, who contributed a quickfire 55 off 23 balls. Cameron Green also chipped in with a valuable 46 off 27 balls, helping RCB post a formidable total of 241/7.In response, PBKS got off to a flying start thanks to Rilee Rossouw's explosive 61 off 27 balls. However, Karn Sharma's twin breakthroughs triggered a collapse, and PBKS were eventually bowled out for 181 in 17 overs.Swapnil Singh, Karn, and Lockie Ferguson claimed two wickets each for RCB, while Mohammed Siraj picked up three.Kohli's innings was a masterclass in batting. He timed the ball to perfection, using his feet and wrists to find the boundaries with ease. He reached his fifty in just 32 balls and continued to accelerate, hitting seven fours and six maximums.Patidar provided the early momentum for RCB, smashing six maximums and three fours during his 23-ball 55. After Patidar's dismissal, Kohli and Green continued the onslaught, taking RCB past the 200-mark.PBKS's chase started brightly, with Rossouw looking unstoppable. However, Karn's breakthroughs turned the tide in RCB's favor. Jitesh Sharma, Liam Livingstone, and Shashank Singh all fell in quick succession, leaving PBKS reeling at 126/5.Sam Curran and Ashutosh Sharma offered some resistance, but it was too little too late. RCB's bowlers maintained their discipline, ensuring that PBKS never got back into the game.With this victory, RCB moved to 10 points, while PBKS were eliminated from the playoff race. RCB will now face Delhi Capitals in their next match, while PBKS will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Virat Kohli's Animated Celebration Sparks Rivalry with Rilee RossouwIn a thrilling encounter between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Virat Kohli's fiery celebration after dismissing Rilee Rossouw ignited a rivalry between the two players.Rossouw's blistering half-century, scored off just 27 balls, was marked by a gun shot gesture celebration. Kohli, known for his competitive spirit, responded with an animated imitation of Rossouw's celebration, sending a clear message of dominance.The match was a high-octane affair, with both teams fighting tooth and nail. Kohli, a veteran of intense on-field battles, was at the heart of the action. His dismissal of Rossouw sparked a moment of triumph, which he expressed with unmistakable delight.Kohli's mimicry was not merely a celebration but a psychological play, showcasing his authority in the game. Such moments are not uncommon in cricket, where players engage in light-hearted banter and mimicry to unsettle their opponents. Kohli's antics were a testament to his passion for the game and his unwavering desire to win.Beyond the rivalry, the match also had significant implications for both teams. RCB's comfortable 60-run victory secured their fourth consecutive win of the season, keeping their tournament hopes alive. Meanwhile, PBKS's elimination from the competition was confirmed.Kohli's animated celebration and the ensuing rivalry with Rossouw added an extra layer of excitement to the match. It showcased the competitive spirit and passion that drives cricket, making it one of the most captivating sports in the world.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will face off in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) clash on Thursday in Dharamsala. Both teams are fighting for survival in the tournament, with RCB sitting in seventh place with eight points from 11 games and PBKS in eighth place with the same number of points.RCB has shown signs of resurgence in recent games, winning their last three matches comprehensively. Virat Kohli has been consistent at the top of the order, while skipper Faf du Plessis has found his form with a belligerent knock in the last game. Will Jacks has also impressed with a match-winning century against Gujarat Titans, and Cameron Green has showcased his all-round skills with crucial contributions in runs and wickets.PBKS, on the other hand, has been inconsistent throughout the season. They have showcased their potential with away wins over Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings but have struggled at home. They have won just one out of five games in Mullanpur, their main home ground.The match will be a battle of contrasting styles. RCB has a strong batting lineup but a relatively weaker bowling attack, while PBKS has a more balanced team with a solid bowling unit led by Kagiso Rabada and Arshdeep Singh.The outcome of the match could have a significant impact on the playoff race. RCB can still make the playoffs if they win all their remaining three fixtures, while PBKS needs to win at least two of their remaining three games to have a chance of qualifying.