Cricket

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is nearing its climax, with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) set to face off in Qualifier 2 on May 24 at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This highly anticipated match will determine which team advances to the grand finale against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).SRH, after a disappointing loss to KKR in Qualifier 1, will be eager to bounce back and secure a spot in the final. RR, on the other hand, have been in impressive form, overcoming Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator.Both teams boast a talented roster of players, and the match promises to be a thrilling contest. Here are some key players to watch out for:Travis Head (SRH): The left-handed batter has been a consistent performer for SRH, scoring 533 runs at an average of 44.4. His ability to anchor the innings and provide a solid foundation makes him a crucial player.Riyan Parag (RR): The young all-rounder has emerged as a key figure for RR, particularly in the latter stages of the tournament. He has accumulated 567 runs at an impressive average of 56.7, showcasing his ability to score runs consistently.Sanju Samson (RR): The RR captain has been instrumental in his team's success, scoring 521 runs at an average of 52.1. His dual role as a top-order batter and wicketkeeper adds significant value to his fantasy value.Pat Cummins (SRH): The Australian all-rounder has been a reliable performer for SRH, both with the ball and the bat. He has taken 16 wickets at an average of 32.4 and scored 107 runs at an average of 21.4.Abhishek Sharma (SRH): The left-handed batter has been a consistent performer in the top order for SRH, scoring 470 runs at an average of 36.2. His ability to provide steady starts and build innings makes him an important player for SRH.Yuzvendra Chahal (RR): The leg-spinner has been a key bowler for RR, known for his ability to pick up crucial wickets. He has taken 18 wickets at an average of 28.4, making him a must-have for any fantasy cricket team.As SRH and RR battle for a place in the final, these players are expected to play pivotal roles in their teams' performances. The match promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams determined to secure a spot in the grand finale.

Riyan Parag, the young batting sensation from the Rajasthan Royals (RR), has etched his name in the record books of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by becoming the third-highest run-scorer among uncapped players in a single season. With his crucial 36-run knock in the Eliminator against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Parag has amassed a total of 567 runs in the ongoing IPL 2023.Parag's impressive performance has been marked by a strike rate of 151.60 and an average of 56.70. He has notched up four half-centuries, with his highest score being an unbeaten 84. His consistent run-scoring has propelled him to the third spot on the list of uncapped players with the most runs in an IPL season.The record for the most runs by an uncapped batsman in an IPL season is held by Yashasvi Jaiswal, also from RR. In the 2023 season, Jaiswal amassed a staggering 625 runs in 14 games, setting a new benchmark for uncapped players. His tally included a century and five fifties, with a career-best score of 124.Australian batsman Shaun Marsh, who was uncapped in 2008, ranks second on the list with 616 runs scored in 11 matches. Marsh's impressive performance included five half-centuries and a century, with his highest score being 115.Parag's remarkable run-scoring has not only established him as a rising star in the IPL but has also placed him among the top run-getters for RR in a single season. In 2022, Jos Buttler set a record for the most runs scored by a right-handed RR batsman in a single season with 863 runs. Jaiswal's 625 runs in the 2023 season currently hold the second position.Parag also holds the record for the most runs scored by a batter batting fourth or lower in an IPL season. The previous record was held by Rishabh Pant of the Delhi Capitals (DC), who amassed 579 runs while batting in the middle order during the 2018 season.The Rajasthan Royals will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 2 on Friday in Chennai. The winner of this match will advance to the final on Sunday, where they will face the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Rajasthan Royals emerged victorious in a thrilling Eliminator match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, securing a spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) Qualifier 2. After restricting RCB to 172/8, RR's batters faced a mid-innings slump, allowing RCB to regain momentum. However, the 2008 champions rallied to secure a four-wicket win with an over to spare.Chasing 173, RR's innings was anchored by Riyan Parag (36 off 26), who showcased resilience in a challenging situation. Shimron Hetmyer (26 off 14) also played a crucial role, while Rovman Powell (16 not out) provided the finishing touches in a tense finish.Earlier, Yashasvi Jaiswal (45 off 30) provided RR with a solid start, hitting four fours in the third over. However, Lockie Ferguson dismissed Tom Kohler-Cadmore (20) to give RCB their first breakthrough. Jaiswal's innings was cut short due to the extreme heat, and Karn Sharma dealt a further blow by stumping Sanju Samson (17).RCB continued to make inroads, with Dhruv Jurel (8) being run out after a brilliant effort from Virat Kohli and Cameron Green. RR's pressure intensified in the 15th over, but Hetmyer and Parag responded with a six each and a four to collect 17 runs.Rajasthan Royals' bowling effort was equally impressive. Trent Boult (4-0-16-1) produced an economical opening spell, while Ravichandran Ashwin (4-0-19-2) claimed the wickets of Green and Glenn Maxwell on consecutive deliveries. Avesh Khan (3/44) also contributed with three wickets.RR's fielders provided excellent support, particularly Rovman Powell, who took two stunning catches to halt RCB's progress.

Riyan Parag, the 22-year-old U-19 World Cup winner, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the ongoing IPL season. After spending several seasons as a middle-order firefighter, Parag has finally found his niche at No.4 for the Rajasthan Royals.Parag's promotion up the order has unlocked his true potential. He has amassed 531 runs in 12 innings at an average of 59 and a strike rate of 152.58, significantly higher than his previous career figures. His tally of 31 sixes is not only more than his last five seasons combined but also the highest for a No.4 batter this season.Parag's success is not a coincidence. He has worked tirelessly to improve his game, studying footage and seeking guidance from his father and the Rajasthan Royals' high-performance director. He has also benefited from a seamless transition from domestic cricket, where he excelled as the highest scorer and most prolific six-hitter in the Deodhar Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.Parag's maturity and determination have been evident in his performances this IPL. He has played several match-winning innings, including an unbeaten 84 against Delhi Capitals and a crucial 34 against Kolkata Knight Riders. His ability to pace chases and finish games has made him a valuable asset for the Royals.Despite missing out on a T20 World Cup call-up, Parag remains focused on his goals. He is determined to continue improving and helping his team win matches. With his talent and dedication, Parag has the potential to become one of the most exciting young players in Indian cricket.

In a thrilling encounter at the Wankhede Stadium, Punjab Kings emerged victorious over Rajasthan Royals by five wickets, thanks to a stellar performance from captain Sam Curran.Curran led the charge with a well-paced half-century, scoring 63 not out off 41 deliveries. His innings included five boundaries and three sixes, providing the much-needed stability to the Punjab Kings' chase. He found able support from Jitesh Sharma, who contributed 22 runs off 20 balls. The duo shared a crucial 63-run partnership for the fifth wicket, guiding their team to victory in 18.5 overs.Despite a modest target of 145, the Punjab Kings faced a challenge on a sluggish track. However, Curran's composed batting and crucial wickets proved decisive. He claimed two wickets for 24 runs, including the key scalp of Riyan Parag, who had played a valiant knock of 48 for Rajasthan Royals.Earlier, Rajasthan Royals struggled to post a competitive total, managing only 144 for nine. Riyan Parag and R Ashwin provided some resistance with a 50-run partnership, but the Punjab Kings' bowlers maintained a tight line and length, making it difficult for the Royals' batters to score freely.Avesh Khan was the pick of the Punjab Kings' bowlers, claiming two wickets for 28 runs. Nathan Ellis and Rahul Chahar also chipped in with two wickets each.Despite their fourth consecutive defeat, Rajasthan Royals remain in second place on the table with 16 points, securing a spot in the playoffs. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, move up to fifth place with their fifth win of the season.

Punjab Kings Triumph Over Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati ThrillerIn a captivating encounter at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Punjab Kings (PBKS) emerged victorious over Rajasthan Royals (RR) by five wickets, snapping RR's four-match winning streak.RR, batting first, struggled to gain momentum, posting a modest total of 144 for 9. Riyan Parag top-scored with a valiant 48, while Ravichandran Ashwin contributed 28. Sam Curran led the PBKS bowling attack with an impressive 2 for 24, supported by Deepak Chahar and Harshal Patel, who claimed two wickets each.PBKS's chase got off to a shaky start, losing four wickets for just 48 runs in the first eight overs. However, Curran stepped up to the plate, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 63. His knock, laced with six fours and two sixes, guided PBKS to victory with seven balls to spare.Curran's heroics overshadowed Parag's efforts, who had earlier played a crucial role in RR's innings. The local boy from Guwahati struck five fours and two sixes in his 48-run knock, but it proved insufficient to prevent RR's downfall.The victory propelled PBKS to the fifth spot in the IPL standings, while RR slipped to seventh. The result highlights the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket, where fortunes can change rapidly.

Riyan Parag's Homecoming: Rajasthan Royals Eye Playoff Berth Against Punjab KingsRiyan Parag, the prodigious young cricketer from Assam, is set for a grand homecoming as Rajasthan Royals face Punjab Kings in their penultimate league game of IPL 2024. The match, to be played in Guwahati, holds immense significance for the Royals, who are vying for a spot in the playoffs.Currently placed second in the standings with 16 points, the Royals need just one win from their remaining two home games to secure a top-four finish. Guwahati has been their second home base for several years, and the franchise has invested heavily in Parag's development.Parag, who has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in Indian cricket, is expected to receive a rousing welcome from his home fans. The 21-year-old all-rounder has been in impressive form this season, showcasing his versatility with both bat and ball.The Punjab Kings, on the other hand, have been eliminated from playoff contention. However, they will be keen to end their campaign on a high and spoil the Royals' party. Led by Mayank Agarwal, the Kings possess a formidable batting lineup that includes Shikhar Dhawan, Liam Livingstone, and Jonny Bairstow.The Royals, meanwhile, will rely on their balanced squad, which features experienced players like Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, and Trent Boult. The team's bowling attack has been a strength this season, with Yuzvendra Chahal and Obed McCoy leading the charge.The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to prove their mettle. The Royals will be determined to secure their playoff berth, while the Kings will be looking to play the role of spoilers.

Rajasthan Royals Face Punjab Kings in Crucial Clash, Seeking Top-Two FinishGuwahati, India - Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings will lock horns in a pivotal Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter on Wednesday, with both teams aiming for contrasting goals.Rajasthan Royals, currently sitting on 16 points, are in danger of slipping out of the top two after three consecutive defeats. The absence of Jos Buttler, who has departed for England's T20 World Cup duty, has further complicated their path to the playoffs.To fill the void left by Buttler, the Royals may consider promoting Tom Kohler-Cadmore or Dhruv Jurel up the order. However, Kohler-Cadmore has yet to play a T20 in India, while Jurel has limited experience as an opener in the format.Punjab Kings, on the other hand, are out of playoff contention and will be looking to avoid finishing at the bottom of the table. They will be boosted by the return of Sam Curran and Johnny Bairstow, who are available for this fixture before joining the England squad for the T20 World Cup.Key Players to Watch:* Riyan Parag (Rajasthan Royals): The young all-rounder has been in impressive form this season, scoring seven consecutive fifties in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He will be eager to make an impact in his third match at the venue in Guwahati.* Jitesh Sharma (Punjab Kings): The India T20 keeper-batter has struggled for form this season, averaging just 13.30 with a strike rate of under 125. He will be looking to end the season on a high note.Stats to Consider:* Arshdeep Singh has a favorable match-up against Yashasvi Jaiswal, having dismissed him twice in 20 balls.* Trent Boult has struggled against Punjab Kings, averaging 43.6 and conceding an economy rate of 9.98.* Yuzvendra Chahal has had a mixed season, with his average and economy rate deteriorating in his last six matches.Pitch and Conditions:This will be the first of two matches in Guwahati in IPL 2024. The pitch is expected to be conducive to batting, with the team batting first having won on both previous occasions at this venue.

Riyan Parag, the rising star of Indian cricket, is poised to receive a thunderous welcome from his home crowd when Rajasthan Royals face Punjab Kings in their penultimate league game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on May 15, 2024.Placed second in the 10-team standings with 16 points, the Royals need just one win in their remaining two "home" games in Guwahati to secure a berth in the playoffs. This strategic move by the franchise, which has invested heavily in Parag's development over the past six years, has paid dividends.Despite not being an opener, Parag has amassed an impressive 483 runs at a strike rate of 153 this season. His consistency and adaptability have made him a contender for India's next T20 series, where he is expected to make his international debut.Parag's emergence as a cricketing icon from the northeast region adds significance to this match and the Royals' subsequent clash against Kolkata Knight Riders. The support for the 22-year-old will be overwhelming, bolstering Sanju Samson and his men against Punjab Kings.Punjab Kings, on the other hand, have struggled to find their footing this season, despite unearthing two T20 gems in Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma. Skipper Shikhar Dhawan's absence due to injury has exacerbated their woes, with his stand-in Sam Curran failing to impress.In contrast, Samson has grown as a leader, leading the Royals' charge with 486 runs, the highest in the team. The dynamic opening duo of Yashasvi Jaiswal (344 runs) and Jos Buttler (359 runs) have had an average season by their standards, but Parag and Samson have ensured that the batting remains solid.The Royals' strength lies in their bowling unit, which has been consistently effective throughout the tournament. Sandeep Sharma (Economy Rate 8.07) and Trent Boult (ER 8.38) have executed their plans with precision, while Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal have provided the necessary spin and wicket-taking ability.