Cricket

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will face off in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Saturday, with both teams vying for a victory to enhance their playoff chances. The encounter holds significance as RCB had previously defeated GT in a one-sided affair last weekend, with Virat Kohli and Will Jacks playing pivotal roles.Kohli, who has faced scrutiny for his strike rate, showcased his prowess with an unbeaten 70 off 44 balls in the previous match. However, it was Jacks who stole the limelight with an astonishing unbeaten 100 off just 41 balls, reaching his first 50 in 31 balls and then requiring only 10 more to reach triple figures.Ahead of the return leg against GT, Kohli and several RCB players attended an event. A video of Kohli dancing while entering the room has gone viral on social media, capturing the attention of fans. In the video, Kohli is seen dancing with RCB skipper Faf du Plessis, who provides him with a shoulder massage.Kohli has been in exceptional form in the ongoing IPL, currently ranking as the second-highest run-getter with 500 runs in 10 matches. He trails CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad by a mere nine runs in the Orange Cap race. Kohli's performance in the remaining matches will be crucial not only for RCB but also for Team India, as he has been selected in the 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar has addressed the ongoing debate surrounding Kohli's strike rate, stating that the team is not concerned and that there is a difference between IPL and international cricket. Agarkar emphasized the importance of experience and the team's overall balance and power.There has been speculation about whether Kohli should open the batting during the T20 World Cup. India captain Rohit Sharma has neither confirmed nor denied this possibility, stating that all options are open and the decision will be made based on conditions in the West Indies.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) pacer Mohammed Siraj played through severe stomach pain in their IPL match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday, driven by the desire to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Despite his discomfort, Siraj delivered a crucial performance, taking 2/29 and helping RCB secure a four-wicket victory.Siraj revealed that he experienced intense stomach pain and loose motions before the game, but the thought of the World Cup and the "power of the almighty" motivated him to take the field. He acknowledged that he lacked the energy to bowl at his usual intensity, but he credited divine intervention for his performance.In 10 IPL 2024 matches, Siraj has claimed eight wickets at an average of 44.00, with a best of 2/26. He also discussed his close bond with Virat Kohli, emphasizing how Kohli's guidance and communication help him as a bowler."Virat has known me for eight years now and he always gives handy advice on what to do in a particular situation," Siraj said. "When you have good communication with such a legend of the game then half the difficulty gets reduced straightaway as a bowler."Siraj praised teammate Yash Dayal for his impressive bowling with the new ball, noting that his performance will boost his confidence. Dayal has taken 10 wickets in 10 IPL 2024 matches, with a best of 2/21.In the match, RCB elected to field first and restricted GT to 148 runs, with Siraj, Dayal, and Vijaykumar Vyshak taking two wickets each. RCB then chased down the target with 38 balls to spare, thanks to a 92-run opening partnership between Faf Du Plessis and Virat Kohli.Despite a late fightback from GT's Joshua Little and Noor Ahmed, RCB held on for the victory, with Dinesh Karthik and Swapnil Singh guiding the team home.

Former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel has sparked controversy by labeling Royal Challengers Bangalore all-rounder Glenn Maxwell as the "most overrated" player in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Patel's criticism stems from Maxwell's underwhelming performance in RCB's recent match against Gujarat Titans, where he scored a mere four runs from three balls.Despite Maxwell's poor showing, RCB emerged victorious with a four-wicket margin. However, Patel took to social media to express his dissatisfaction with the Australian's performance, writing on X (formerly Twitter), "Glenn Maxwell....HE IS THE MOST OVERRATED player in the history of ipl."Maxwell's performance in the ongoing IPL season has been inconsistent. In eight matches, he has scored 104 runs at an average of 17.33 and a strike rate of 125.61. He has also taken five wickets with an economy rate of 8.33.Patel's criticism has drawn mixed reactions. Some fans have agreed with his assessment, citing Maxwell's lack of consistency and big-match temperament. Others have defended Maxwell, pointing to his all-round abilities and his contributions to RCB's success in previous seasons.In the match against Gujarat Titans, RCB elected to field first and restricted GT to 147 runs in 19.3 overs. Yash Dayal, Vijaykumar Vyshak, and Mohammed Siraj were the standout bowlers for RCB, each taking two wickets.In the run chase, RCB got off to a strong start with Faf Du Plessis and Virat Kohli putting up a 92-run partnership. However, a brilliant spell from Joshua Little (4/45) and Noor Ahmed (2/23) put RCB in trouble. Dinesh Karthik (21*) and Swapnil Singh (15*) eventually guided the team to victory with 38 balls remaining.Patel's criticism of Maxwell has reignited the debate about the Australian's value to RCB. While he has undoubtedly been a match-winner in the past, his recent performances have raised questions about his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. It remains to be seen whether Maxwell can silence his critics and prove his worth in the remaining matches of the IPL season.

In a comical exchange during the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs. Gujarat Titans (GT) match on Saturday, Virat Kohli delivered a witty response to Gujarat Titans' wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha's attempt to rally his team.As RCB chased a modest target of 148, skipper Faf du Plessis' blistering 64 gave them a strong start. The Titans, on the other hand, struggled to contain RCB's onslaught.At the end of the 7th over, with RCB reaching the 100-run mark, Saha was overheard urging his teammates, "Chalo, chalo runs roko, match kheecho" (Let's stop the runs and extend the match).Kohli, who overheard Saha's plea, retorted with a humorous quip, "B*, aise kaise match kheech lega!" (Nonsense, how can you extend the match like that!).Kohli's response drew laughter from the commentators and fans alike. He went on to score a quickfire 42 off 27 balls before being dismissed in the 10th over.Despite Kohli's dismissal, RCB continued their dominance, chasing down the target with ease in just 14 overs. The victory kept their slim playoff hopes alive.The exchange between Kohli and Saha highlighted the competitive spirit and camaraderie that exists within the IPL. It also showcased Kohli's quick wit and ability to lighten the mood even in tense situations.

Virat Kohli's animated gestures towards his wife Anushka Sharma during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's match against Gujarat Titans on Saturday have become the talk of the town. The former RCB captain's playful actions, such as pretending to carry an aarti ki thali upon his arrival, were met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the audience.This was Anushka's first public appearance since the birth of their son, Akaay. Prior to this, she was seen during her birthday festivities, where she celebrated with Virat and his RCB colleagues in a private gathering.Kohli's lighthearted demeanor and deep connection with Anushka were evident in his gestures. The endearing interaction between the couple rapidly spread across social media platforms.Meanwhile, RCB kept alive their slim playoff hopes in the Indian Premier League with a four-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in a low-scoring thriller. Bengaluru pacers came to the party as Gujarat was put into bat and bowled out for 147 runs in 19.3 overs.Bengaluru skipper Faf du Plessis then led the way with 64 off 23 balls, as the hosts finished with 152-6 in only 13.4 overs. Kohli scored 42 runs in 27 balls and shared an opening partnership of 92 with du Plessis in 5.5 overs.RCB's victory keeps them in contention for a playoff spot, while Gujarat Titans' hopes of securing a top-two finish have taken a hit.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have shown signs of improvement in their bowling department, but they still have a long way to go before they can be considered playoff contenders, according to former India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja.RCB's bowlers played a crucial role in their four-wicket win over Gujarat Titans on Saturday, restricting the opposition to a paltry 148. However, the team's batting lineup once again faltered, losing six wickets in quick succession after a solid start by Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli."The chinks in the armor are visible, what happened at the end," Jadeja said. "But the chance is there. They're off the ventilator but they're still in the ICU."Jadeja praised the bowlers for their performance, saying that it was the "real work" that set up the win. He believes that the bowling department has started to click for RCB, which is crucial for their chances of success in the business end of the season.However, Jadeja cautioned that qualifying for the playoffs remains a "very tough ask" for RCB. He said that the team needs to develop a mentality where they can rely on someone to bail them out of difficult situations.Despite the team's struggles, Jadeja was impressed with RCB's aggressive approach with the bat in the small chase. He said that the team's decision to start the game with two sixes in the first over showed a different mindset."What Faf did, he was operating at a different pace," Jadeja said. "Later, there was some excitement in the match but at no point did it seem like this was (GT win) going to be successful."

Mohammed Siraj's resurgence has been a pivotal factor in Royal Challengers Bangalore's recent resurgence in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The pacer's impressive form has not only boosted RCB's chances but has also instilled confidence in the Indian team ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.Siraj's transformation was evident in his devastating spell against Gujarat Titans, where he claimed two wickets in the Power Play, dismissing Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill. His figures of 2-0-9-2 were a testament to his newfound control and aggression.RCB assistant coach Adam Griffith attributed Siraj's resurgence to his ability to "swing the ball again." He praised Siraj's leadership qualities and his unwavering determination to take wickets. Griffith also highlighted the importance of Siraj's fitness and rhythm, which have been crucial to his success.Siraj's absence from the Sunrisers Hyderabad game due to a nine-day break may have contributed to his renewed focus and sharpness. Griffith emphasized the importance of rest for players, especially those who rely on rhythm and pace.Since his return from the break, Siraj has been in exceptional form, claiming wickets in each of his four matches. His performances against Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans have been particularly impressive.Griffith believes Siraj has struck a balance between rest and preparation. He noted that Siraj understands his body well and knows when he needs to push himself or take a break.Siraj's resurgence has had a positive impact on the entire RCB bowling unit. Youngster Yash Dayal has also impressed with his frugal and productive spells upfront. As a result, RCB has recorded three consecutive victories and has the lowest Power Play score in the IPL this season.Griffith attributed the team's success to their collective ability to hit a better line and attack the stumps. He emphasized the importance of challenging batters and forcing them to play aggressive shots.Siraj's impressive form is a welcome boost for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup. His ability to swing the ball and take wickets in the Power Play will be crucial for India's success in the tournament.

Virat Kohli's all-around brilliance propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a thrilling four-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match on Saturday.Before the match, Kohli faced criticism from former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar for his comments on cricket experts. However, he silenced his critics with a blistering 42 off 27 balls, including four sixes, to help RCB chase down a modest target of 148.Kohli's innings was not just about his batting prowess. He also showcased his exceptional fielding skills, running out GT's Shahrukh Khan with a stunning one-handed throw. The effort left even his teammate Cameron Green in awe.RCB's bowlers had earlier restricted GT to 147, with Mohammed Siraj and Yash Dayal picking up two wickets each. David Miller and Shahrukh Khan provided some resistance with a 61-run partnership, but the Titans lacked a substantial innings to build a formidable total.RCB's chase got off to a flying start, with Kohli and captain Faf du Plessis adding 92 runs in just 35 balls for the opening wicket. Du Plessis played a blistering knock of 64 off 23 balls, hitting 10 fours and three sixes.However, RCB's middle order faltered, losing three wickets in quick succession. Kohli's dismissal in the 10th over triggered a collapse, but Glenn Maxwell (23) and Dinesh Karthik (14*) steadied the ship.Despite some nervous moments, RCB managed to cross the finish line with four wickets to spare. The victory lifted them to seventh place on the IPL table, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Virat Kohli, the talismanic batter of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has reclaimed the Orange Cap as the leading run-scorer in IPL 2024. His 42-run knock against Gujarat Titans on Saturday propelled him past Chennai Super Kings' Ruturaj Gaikwad, who had briefly held the coveted cap.Kohli's innings came off just 27 deliveries, showcasing his exceptional strokeplay. He formed a formidable opening partnership with RCB skipper Faf du Plessis, who struck a blistering 62 off 23 balls. The duo put up a 92-run stand, laying the foundation for RCB's eventual four-wicket victory.However, RCB's middle order faltered against the impressive bowling of Joshua Litle, who claimed four wickets. But the damage had already been done by Kohli and du Plessis, and veteran finisher Dinesh Karthik (21* off 12) and Swapil Singh (15* off 9) guided the team home in the 14th over.Kohli's knock not only earned him the Orange Cap but also sparked a moment of camaraderie with Karthik. After receiving the cap from his teammate, Kohli playfully bowed to him, eliciting smiles from both players.RCB's bowlers also played a crucial role in the victory, restricting Gujarat Titans to a below-par 147. Yash Dayal, Vijaykumar Vyshak, and Mohammed Siraj picked up two wickets each.Despite the win, RCB's playoff hopes remain uncertain. They currently sit seventh in the points table, with their qualification chances hanging in the balance. However, Kohli's return to form and the team's overall performance in recent matches provide a glimmer of hope for their fans.