Cricket

Virat Kohli's scintillating 92 off 47 balls and Rajat Patidar's brisk half-century propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a formidable total of 241/7 against Punjab Kings in a rain-affected Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Thursday.Kohli, dropped twice early in his innings, made Punjab pay with his precise timing, footwork, and wrist action, reaching his sixth IPL fifty of the season. Patidar, who was also given two lifelines, delivered early impetus with a rapid 23-ball 55 that included six sixes and three fours.Kohli and Cameron Green (46 off 27 balls) continued the assault, adding 92 runs off 46 balls, propelling RCB past the 200-run mark. Green's knock featured five boundaries and one six before he was dismissed on the final delivery of the innings, as RCB scored 77 runs in the last five overs.After his majestic knock, Kohli emphasized the importance of maintaining his strike rate throughout the innings. He acknowledged the tricky phase after Patidar's dismissal and the rain interruption, but credited his partnership with Green for settling the team.Kohli also praised the wicket, noting its two-paced nature and the skidding deliveries on the grassy patches. He expressed confidence in his bowlers' ability to make early inroads, given their recent successes.However, cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar delivered a strong rebuke to Kohli for his reaction to analysts and commentators who questioned his scoring rate before India's T20 World Cup squad was announced. Gavaskar criticized Kohli's outburst and the broadcaster for repeatedly showing the clip.Kohli had pushed back against the ongoing discussion about his strike rate against spin during the middle overs, asserting that he understands his own game better than his critics do.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) emerged victorious against the formidable Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL), breaking their losing streak. Batting first, RCB amassed an impressive 200+ runs, with Virat Kohli contributing a steady 51. However, it was Rajat Patidar who stole the show, earning the Player of the Match award for his explosive half-century at a blistering strike rate.Kohli's innings sparked a debate about his intent and strike rate, as he faced criticism for his relatively slow 43-ball 51. After a blistering start in the powerplay, Kohli struggled to find boundaries, resulting in a significant drop in his strike rate. He managed only 19 runs from the last 25 deliveries he faced.Former RCB and Australia batter Aaron Finch defended Kohli's approach, emphasizing the context of the partnership with Patidar. "Kohli's knock shouldn't be viewed in isolation," Finch said. "He started well, but after the powerplay, Patidar was on fire. Sometimes, as a set batter, your role is to keep the innings going and give Patidar as many deliveries as possible."Finch acknowledged the decline in Kohli's strike rate but highlighted the effectiveness of the partnership. "You can criticize him individually, but as a partnership, it worked well," Finch asserted. "When your partner is going all out, you don't want to be stuck at the non-striker's end. Kohli did the right thing by giving Patidar the strike."Kohli's innings may have raised questions, but RCB's victory showcased the team's resilience and the importance of adapting to the game situation. Patidar's blistering knock and Kohli's steady contribution proved to be a winning combination, highlighting the depth and versatility of the RCB batting lineup.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) emerged victorious in their clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, securing a 35-run victory. Rajat Patidar, who scored a crucial half-century, was named Player of the Match, while Cameron Green showcased his all-around prowess with an unbeaten 37 and two wickets.RCB, after winning the toss, opted to bat first. Skipper Faf Du Plessis and Virat Kohli provided a solid start, but it was Patidar who accelerated the innings with a 50-run knock. Despite Kohli's dismissal for 51, Green's unbeaten 37 and Swapnil Singh's 12* propelled RCB to a competitive total of 206/7.SRH's chase was hampered by regular wicket losses. Abhishek Sharma's 31 was the only notable contribution from the top order. Skipper Pat Cummins and Shahbaz Ahmed offered some resistance, but RCB's bowlers maintained control. Green and Karn Sharma claimed two wickets each, while Swapnil Singh, Will Jacks, and Yash Dayal also chipped in.Green, speaking after the match, praised RCB's captain and coach for their success. He also acknowledged SRH's strong batting performance. "We always have to celebrate little wins and we feel pretty good now. Credit goes to captain and coach, SRH have been batting well - that was the main reason," Green said.RCB's victory lifts them to the bottom of the points table with two wins and seven losses. SRH remains in third place with five wins and three losses.

Virat Kohli's cautious approach in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has sparked a debate among cricket experts. In Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Kohli's measured innings contrasted with Rajat Patidar's explosive knock.Kohli, known for his aggressive batting, played a more calculated game, scoring 51 off 43 balls. He focused on rotating the strike, allowing Patidar to take the lead in scoring. This strategy drew criticism from commentator Sunil Gavaskar, who questioned Kohli's low strike rate.Former cricketer Ajay Jadeja analyzed Kohli's innings, dividing it into two phases. He noted Kohli's aggressive start but questioned RCB's batting order, suggesting it limited adaptability. "When Virat Kohli started, he looked to be in a different mood altogether," Jadeja said. "But the main difference between SRH and RCB is that when RCB got ahead, they slowed down."RP Singh shared similar views, commending Kohli's assertiveness in the Powerplay but expressing concern about his subsequent slowdown. "He has transformed himself inside the Powerplay," Singh said. "But once the wicket fell, he got slow."Kohli's approach has raised questions about his role in the team and his preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. While some argue that his cautious approach is a sign of maturity, others believe it could hinder RCB's chances of success.As the IPL season progresses, Kohli's batting will remain under scrutiny. His ability to adapt to different situations and strike a balance between aggression and caution will be crucial for RCB's success and his own performance in the T20 World Cup.

Rajat Patidar's Consecutive Sixes Stun Sunrisers HyderabadRoyal Challengers Bangalore's Rajat Patidar unleashed a breathtaking display of power hitting in the Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday. The left-handed batter smashed four consecutive sixes off the bowling of Mayank Markande, leaving the opposition stunned and igniting a frenzy among spectators.Patidar's onslaught began in the 11th over of the innings. Markande's first delivery was dispatched over long off, followed by another one in the same area. The leg-spinner then tried a googly, but Patidar stayed in his crease and heaved it over deep midwicket for the third six. The fourth and final six sailed over extra cover, leaving Markande and the Sunrisers reeling.Patidar's blistering knock of 19-ball 50, which included two fours and five sixes, was the joint-second fastest fifty for RCB in the IPL. He equaled Robin Uthappa's record, set against Punjab Kings in 2010.Patidar's fearless approach and unwavering focus enabled him to dominate the bowler with remarkable ease. His innings was a testament to his exceptional talent and growing maturity as a batsman.The 29-year-old has been in impressive form for RCB this season, scoring 276 runs in eight matches at an average of 39.43 and a strike rate of 154.95. His ability to play big shots and anchor the innings has been crucial for RCB's success in the tournament.Patidar's consecutive sixes will go down as one of the most memorable moments of the IPL 2023 season. His performance has not only boosted RCB's chances of reaching the playoffs but has also cemented his reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in Indian cricket.

Rajat Patidar, the Madhya Pradesh batsman, has emerged as a key player for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2024. His two half-centuries, including a match-winning 112 in the eliminator last year, have showcased his talent and determination.In RCB's recent match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Patidar's 52 off 23 balls almost guided his team to victory. Chasing KKR's 222 for 6, Patidar and Will Jacks (55 off 32) put on a 102-run partnership to put RCB in a strong position. However, their dismissals in the 12th over halted RCB's momentum.Despite a late blitz by Dinesh Karthik (25 off 18) and Karn Sharma (20 off 7), RCB fell just one run short of their target, losing by a heartbreaking margin. Patidar's performance in the match highlighted his ability to play under pressure and contribute to his team's success.Patidar's journey with RCB began in 2021, but he was released after playing only four matches. He returned in 2022 as a replacement player and became the third-highest run-getter for his team with 333 runs. His unbeaten 112 against Lucknow Super Giants in the eliminator was a testament to his batting prowess.Patidar's success in IPL 2024 is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has overcome injuries and setbacks to establish himself as a valuable asset for RCB. His ability to play match-winning innings and contribute to his team's success makes him a player to watch in the upcoming matches of IPL 2024.

Devdutt Padikkal Makes Test Debut as India Announces Changes for Dharamsala TestThe Indian cricket team has made two changes to its squad for the fifth and final Test against England in Dharamsala, with Devdutt Padikkal becoming the 314th player to represent India in the longest format of the game. Padikkal replaces Rajat Patidar, who sustained an injury in a training session on the eve of the match.Patidar's performance in the series had been underwhelming, but captain Rohit Sharma had expressed confidence in the batter at a press conference on Wednesday. However, Rohit revealed at the toss that Padikkal would be replacing Patidar in the playing XI."We would have batted first as well. We have done really well so far in this series and an opportunity to finish on a high. There should be good bounce on this pitch than the games before in this series. Good pitch to bat on and I don't think it will deteriorate that much. Ash has been a real stalwart of Indian cricket. Such a proud moment for him, his nation and the family. We will be rooting for him to do the magic," Rohit said on Thursday morning.The Patidar-Padikkal swap was not the only change in the team, with Jasprit Bumrah returning to the side in place of Akash Deep."Bumrah is back, Akash Deep misses out. Devdutt Padikkal makes his debut as Patidar got injured last evening," Rohit concluded.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) provided an update on Patidar's status, stating that he "got hit on his left ankle during Team India's practice session on 6th March, 2024. He pulled up sore on the morning of the game and was not available for selection for the 5th Test."Padikkal, a left-handed opening batter, has been in impressive form for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has scored over 1,000 runs in the last two seasons, including a century in the 2023 edition.Bumrah, on the other hand, is a key member of India's bowling attack. He has been rested for the first four Tests of the series but is expected to play a crucial role in the final match.India will be looking to seal a 4-0 series victory in Dharamsala, while England will be aiming to salvage some pride after losing the first four Tests.

Legendary South African cricketer AB De Villiers has expressed his belief that Rajat Patidar, despite his disappointing performances in the ongoing Test series against England, could retain his place in the Indian team due to the team's supportive culture.In a recent video on his YouTube channel, De Villiers praised the team culture fostered by skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid, which he believes provides young players with the time and space to regain their form."Rajat Patidar not having the series of a lifetime or the one to remember. But the good thing about this Indian team and the culture is that you will survive in that side because of the great cricket they are playing and the results coming their way," De Villiers said.Patidar, who has averaged just 10.5 in his Test career so far, has struggled to make an impact in the ongoing series. However, De Villiers believes that the team's success could allow them to be more patient with the young batter."If Patidar's attitude is catchy and if he is a likable character in the dressing room, Rohit and the selection panel will have the ability to say, 'Hold on, we do believe this guy has a future and we see him as a part of the team moving forward. Even though he hasn't been scoring runs, let's give him a longer run'," De Villiers explained.De Villiers also emphasized the importance of giving young players opportunities to learn and grow, even when they are not performing at their best."You need to give these guys a chance to learn and grow. You can't just throw them in the deep end and expect them to swim. You need to give them a life jacket and help them along the way," he said.India will face England in the fifth and final Test match of the series in Dharamsala starting March 7. It remains to be seen whether Patidar will be retained in the team, but De Villiers' comments suggest that he has the support of the team management and could be given another chance to prove his worth.

Rajat Patidar's underwhelming debut series against England has sparked speculation about his future in the Indian Test team. With just 63 runs in three matches, the middle-order batter has failed to live up to expectations. However, despite Patidar's struggles, South African legend AB de Villiers believes the Indian team will give him a longer rope.De Villiers, who played alongside Patidar in the Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise, praised the Indian team's culture of supporting players through lean patches. He pointed out that India's strong performances in the series have created a buffer for Patidar, allowing him to survive despite his lack of runs."Rajat Patidar not having the series of a lifetime or the one to remember. But the good thing about this Indian team and the culture is that you will survive in that side because of the great cricket they are playing and the results coming their way," de Villiers said on his YouTube channel.De Villiers also highlighted Patidar's positive attitude and likability as factors that could influence the team management's decision to retain him. "If Patidar's attitude is catchy and if he is a likable character in the dressing room, Rohit and the selection panel will have the ability to say, 'Hold on, we do believe this guy has a future and we see him as a part of the team moving forward. Even though he hasn't been scoring runs, let's give him a longer run'," said the former South Africa captain.Former India opener Aakash Chopra also weighed in on Patidar's inclusion for the final Test, predicting his inclusion in the XI. "I think Rajat Patidar will play the fifth Test match. I think he will get another chance," Chopra said on his YouTube channel.The fifth and final India-England Test begins from March 7. Patidar will be hoping to make a significant contribution and prove his worth to the Indian team.