Cricket

Virat Kohli, the talismanic Indian batter, has etched his name in the annals of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by becoming the first player to represent a single team in 250 matches. This remarkable feat was achieved during Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) clash against Delhi Capitals in Bengaluru on Sunday.Kohli's journey with RCB has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by both triumphs and heartbreaks. In 249 matches for the franchise, he has amassed a staggering 7897 runs at an impressive average of 38.71 and a blistering strike rate of 131.64. His tally includes eight centuries and 55 half-centuries, with his highest score being an unbeaten 113.Despite his prolific run-scoring, Kohli's ultimate goal of winning the IPL title with RCB remains elusive. He has led the team to the final thrice, in 2009, 2011, and 2016, but has fallen short on each occasion.Beyond his individual brilliance, Kohli holds several notable records in the IPL. He is the tournament's all-time leading run-getter and has the most centuries to his name. In 2016, he set the record for the most runs in a single edition, amassing 973 runs in 16 matches at an astonishing average of over 81 and a strike rate above 152.In the ongoing season, Kohli has once again showcased his exceptional form, leading the Orange Cap race with 634 runs in 12 matches. His average of 70.44 and strike rate of 153.51 are a testament to his consistency and power-hitting prowess. He has scored a century and five half-centuries, with his highest score being 113*.Kohli's longevity and unwavering commitment to RCB have made him a fan favorite and an icon of the franchise. His ability to inspire his teammates and lead by example has been instrumental in RCB's success over the years. As he continues to chase his elusive IPL title, Kohli's legacy as one of the greatest players in the tournament's history is already secure.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals Set for Thrilling Clash in IPL 2024Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC) are poised for an exciting encounter in Match 62 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. Both teams have been in competitive form this season, with RCB sitting seventh on the points table with 10 points from 12 matches and DC ranked fifth with 12 points from the same number of games.In their previous outing, RCB emerged victorious over Punjab Kings by 60 runs, with Virat Kohli leading the charge with a brilliant 139-point performance. Meanwhile, DC secured a 20-run win against Rajasthan Royals, with Abishek Porel scoring 96 fantasy points.Pitch and Weather ConditionsThe M Chinnaswamy Stadium pitch is known for its batting-friendly nature, with batters expected to find it easy to score runs. The surface is unlikely to provide much assistance to bowlers, making wicket-taking a challenge. The average first-innings score at this venue in the last 20 matches is 170 runs. The team batting first has won 42% of matches here, indicating that the toss may not play a significant role.Pace or Spin?The venue is suitable for both pacers and spinners, with both types of bowlers likely to find success.Weather ForecastThe temperature during the match is expected to hover around 29 degrees Celsius, with humidity at approximately 45%. Winds are predicted to blow at a speed of 3.61 m/s.Head-to-HeadIn the 31 matches played between these two teams, the bowlers have consistently earned the most fantasy points for their respective sides. Their last encounter in Match 50 of IPL 2023 saw Mahipal Lomror top the fantasy points chart for RCB with 92 points, while Mitchell Marsh led the way for DC with 91 points.Fantasy Top Captain and Vice-Captain PicksVirat Kohli (RCB): Kohli is a consistent performer in fantasy cricket, averaging 81 points in the last 10 games. He is a top-order batter with a proven track record of scoring big runs.Will Jacks (RCB): Jacks is a differential pick who can add value to your fantasy team. He averages 59 points in the last 10 games and is a top-order batter with the potential to score quickly.Axar Patel (DC): Patel is a versatile player who can contribute with both bat and ball. He averages 55 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a handy left-arm spinner who has taken 10 wickets in recent matches.Faf du Plessis (RCB): Du Plessis is a reliable top-order batter who averages 52 fantasy points in the last 10 games. He has scored 361 runs in the last 12 matches and is a consistent performer.Kuldeep Yadav (DC): Yadav is a slow left-arm chinaman bowler who has taken 14 wickets in the last nine matches. He averages 51 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a consistent wicket-taker.Khaleel Ahmed (DC): Ahmed is a left-arm medium pacer who has taken 14 wickets in the last 12 matches. He averages 34 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a reliable bowler.Yash Dayal (RCB): Dayal is a left-arm medium-fast bowler who has taken 10 wickets in the last 11 matches. He averages 28 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a good-to-have player for your fantasy team.Glenn Maxwell (RCB): Maxwell is an all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. He averages 26 fantasy points in the last 10 games and is a differential pick who can add value to your team.Fantasy TeamWicket-Keeper: Abishek Porel (DC) and Dinesh Karthik (RCB)Batters: Virat Kohli (RCB), Faf du Plessis (RCB), and Jake Fraser-McGurk (DC)All-Rounders: Glenn Maxwell (RCB), Axar Patel (DC), and Cameron Green (DC)Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav (DC), Khaleel Ahmed (DC), and Mohammed Siraj (RCB)Captain: Virat Kohli (RCB)Vice-Captain: Axar Patel (DC)

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), after a string of setbacks, have clawed their way back into the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoff race with four consecutive victories. However, their penultimate league match against the unpredictable Delhi Capitals (DC) poses a formidable challenge.RCB's resurgence has been fueled by the consistent batting of talisman Virat Kohli, who leads the IPL run-getters with 634 runs at a brisk strike rate of 153. Skipper Faf du Plessis, Rajat Patidar, Cameron Green, and Dinesh Karthik have also contributed valuable runs, providing a cushion for their bowlers.The RCB bowlers have undergone a remarkable transformation in the last four matches. Mohammed Siraj has rediscovered his mojo, while Yash Dayal and Swapnil Singh have provided excellent support. Their overall run-rate has dropped below 10 for the first time this season, a significant achievement in a tournament known for high-scoring matches.DC, on the other hand, have been a team of extremes, oscillating between brilliance and mediocrity. They posted a hefty 257/4 against Mumbai Indians but then collapsed to a lowly 153/9 against Kolkata Knight Riders.DC's batting is led by Jack Fraser-McGurk, who has taken over the opener's slot from David Warner and has made an immediate impact with 309 runs at a strike rate of 235.87. Abhishek Porel has also impressed with a strike rate of 157. Skipper Rishabh Pant and Tristan Stubbs have also been among the runs.In the bowling department, DC boasts the economical spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel, who have shared 24 wickets with economy rates of 8.2 and 7.3 respectively. Their combined eight overs will be crucial in containing the free-flowing RCB batters.The match promises to be a thrilling contest between two teams with contrasting styles. RCB will rely on their consistent batting and improved bowling, while DC will hope to exploit their unpredictable nature and the brilliance of their key players.

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.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) kept their playoff hopes alive with a resounding 60-run victory over Punjab Kings on Thursday, marking their fourth consecutive win in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 campaign. However, their fate remains uncertain as they need a combination of favorable results to secure a top-four finish.RCB currently sit in fifth place with 10 points from 12 matches, trailing Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals, who occupy the top two spots with 16 points each. Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings are also in contention with 14 and 12 points, respectively.To qualify for the playoffs, RCB must win both of their remaining league matches against Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. Additionally, they require other teams to lose their matches to improve their chances.One crucial factor is the performance of Chennai Super Kings. If CSK loses at least one of their remaining two matches, it would significantly boost RCB's chances. CSK's positive Net Run Rate (NRR) of +0.491 means that big defeats for the Gaikwad-led side would be particularly beneficial for RCB.Another team to watch is Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). With 12 points from 12 matches, LSG needs to lose at least one of their next two matches to open the door for RCB. If LSG wins both games, they will reach 16 points, effectively eliminating RCB from the playoff race.Delhi Capitals (DC) also remain in contention with 12 points. They must lose at least one of their next two matches, including their clash against RCB. A DC victory over LSG would further enhance RCB's chances.Finally, RCB can also overtake Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for a top-four spot. However, SRH must lose all of their remaining matches, and their NRR must be lower than RCB's. Currently, SRH has a better NRR (+0.406) than RCB (+0.217).While the Gujarat Titans are mathematically still in the running for a playoff spot, their poor NRR of -1.063 makes it highly unlikely that they will qualify.

Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble and ex-Australian all-rounder Shane Watson have heaped praise on Virat Kohli for his exceptional performances in the ongoing IPL 2024 season. They expressed confidence in his ability to maintain his prime form during the upcoming T20 World Cup.Kohli's scintillating knock of 92 off 47 balls, coupled with a collective bowling effort, propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a resounding 60-run victory over Punjab Kings. Kumble commended Kohli's relentless pursuit of excellence, highlighting his remarkable contribution of 634 runs in the tournament."He's been in outstanding form. He had a break coming into this IPL, and since then, he's been relentless in his pursuit of excellence," Kumble remarked. He emphasized the importance of Kohli's performance in the T20 World Cup, saying, "For India's sake, you'd want his form to continue in the World Cup as well."Watson lauded Kohli's all-round impact and his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates. He acknowledged the significance of the opportunities presented to Kohli early on, allowing him to capitalize and showcase his batting prowess effectively."They got some opportunities early as Virat Kohli was dropped twice. This allowed him to get going in his innings and he batted so beautifully once he capitalized on those chances," Watson remarked.Furthermore, Watson highlighted Kohli's contribution in the field, particularly his electrifying run-out to dismiss Shahshank Singh. "In the field, they made a couple of little errors, but you could see the intensity crank up in the field when they needed it to. Some great catches and a great run-out from Virat Kohli to get Shashank out," Watson concluded.Kohli's exceptional performances have not only boosted RCB's chances of success but have also raised expectations for Team India in the upcoming T20 World Cup. His ability to maintain his prime form and lead his team to victory will be crucial for India's hopes of lifting the coveted trophy.

Virat Kohli's unwavering dedication to training has enabled him to overcome his limitations and maintain his status as one of the world's top batters, according to former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody.Despite being 35 years old, Kohli has showcased remarkable agility and fitness, as evidenced by his brilliant direct hit run-out against Punjab Kings. Moody praised Kohli's ability to execute such a challenging play, highlighting his exceptional focus and determination.Kohli's season total now stands at 634 runs at an average of 70.44, placing him among the leading run-scorers in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Moody attributed Kohli's success to his continued commitment to improving his skills, even if he may not train as intensely as he once did.Kohli's mastery of the slog-sweep has proven to be a potent weapon against spinners in the middle overs. Moody believes that Kohli's ability to adapt and innovate has been crucial to his success.With Kohli in top form, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have turned their season around, winning four consecutive games after a dismal start. Moody believes that RCB still have a chance of making the playoffs if they continue to play with the same intensity and determination.Kohli's exceptional performance has been a delight for fans, and Moody believes that his presence on the field is worth every penny. RCB will play their final two league games at home, and Kohli's continued brilliance will be key to their playoff hopes.

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."