Cricket

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has advocated for the reinstatement of Virat Kohli as the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for the upcoming seasons. Harbhajan believes that Kohli's leadership qualities, coupled with his exceptional performance on the field, make him the ideal candidate to lead the team forward.Kohli, who is currently the leading run-scorer in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), has amassed 661 runs from 13 innings at an impressive strike rate of 155.16. Despite RCB's fifth position in the table with 12 points, they remain in contention for the playoffs.Harbhajan's endorsement of Kohli's leadership stems from his belief that Kohli possesses the perfect blend of intent, commitment, and aggression to lead the team. He also highlighted Kohli's ability to inspire his teammates and create a positive team environment."If they don't qualify, they should look to get some Indian guy. Why not bring Virat Kohli back as captain. As Dhoni has a lot of impact in Chennai, Virat Kohli is a big leader, he knows the kind of cricket they need to play," Harbhajan said in the latest episode of the Star Sports' Press Room.Harbhajan also expressed his concern over the recent outburst of Lucknow Super Giants team owner Sajeev Goenka towards skipper KL Rahul following the team's 10-wicket defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad. He believes that such incidents can be detrimental to the team environment and disrupt team morale."There can be differences between captain and the management but the talks should be behind doors which is better for everyone. The talks should have been inside the dressing room. Whatever talks are going on, it is not good for the team's atmosphere," he said.Harbhajan cited the example of Kolkata Knight Riders owner Shah Rukh Khan, who he praised for his hands-off approach to cricket matters. He believes that Khan's approach has created a secure and positive dressing room environment, which has contributed to the team's success.Harbhajan also commented on the change of captaincy in Mumbai Indians, which he believes did not augur well for the team. He highlighted the importance of collective performance and expressed his belief that the team did not play well as a unit under Hardik Pandya's captaincy."Cricket is a team game, we win together we lose together, not a single individual can win you a tournament. You have to do well collectively and that didn't happen. Of course, there were a lot of issues with captaincy change, we heard people were not willing to accept Hardik Pandya as captain," he said.Harbhajan also praised leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal's performance in the ongoing IPL, highlighting his ability to spin the ball, control flight, and use variations effectively. He also emphasized the significance of Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the Chennai Super Kings side, citing his ability to deliver when it matters most.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) kept their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 playoff hopes alive with a resounding victory over Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday. The win was largely attributed to the dismissal of DC's in-form star Jake Fraser-McGurk, who fell victim to an unlucky run-out.The incident occurred when Cameron Green, bowling his own delivery, touched a straight drive from Shai Hope. The ball hit the stumps at the non-striker's end, catching Fraser-McGurk off guard as he had only just started to advance towards the striker's end.Virat Kohli, known for his passionate celebrations, led the RCB team in jubilation over the prized wicket. The dismissal proved to be a turning point in the match, as RCB went on to restrict DC to a mere 140 runs.RCB pace bowler Yash Dayal credited the team's resurgence in the second half of the IPL to their newfound "attacking mode." After a string of six consecutive defeats, RCB has won five matches on the bounce, keeping their playoff hopes alive."Our performances have markedly improved in the last few matches. I think we have switched on that attacking mode in the last few matches. It has been a big positive for us," said Dayal, who took three wickets for 20 runs against DC.Despite their earlier losing streak, Dayal emphasized that the RCB dressing room remained united. "When you lose matches continuously, like it happened with us, morale will come down a bit. But we took it in our stride and bounced back well," he said."But even when we were losing, fingers were not pointed at anyone. We have remained positive throughout the season," he added.

Sourav Ganguly's Respectful Gesture Towards Virat Kohli Mends Past DifferencesIn a heartwarming display of reconciliation, former India captains Sourav Ganguly and Virat Kohli put aside their past differences during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals.After RCB's 35-run victory, Ganguly, the Delhi Capitals mentor, approached Kohli to shake his hand. However, in a gesture that left fans on social media impressed, Ganguly removed his cap as a mark of respect.This gesture was a stark contrast to the strained relationship between the two icons in recent years. Last year, reports emerged of a rift between them, fueled by on-field incidents during the IPL.However, the handshake and Ganguly's respectful gesture suggest that the hatchet has been buried. Fans on social media praised Ganguly's actions, highlighting the respect Kohli commands."Sourav Ganguly took his cap off before meeting Virat Kohli. That's the respect Kohli has," tweeted one user."Good to see them meeting each other after the issues they had in the past," added another.The reconciliation between Ganguly and Kohli is a positive sign for Indian cricket. It shows that even the greatest players can overcome differences and work together for the betterment of the sport.In the match itself, RCB's victory boosted their playoff qualification hopes. Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, saw their chances of reaching the playoffs diminish with the defeat.DC stand-in captain Axar Patel lamented the dropped catches that cost his team dearly. "Dropped catches hurt us. Could've restricted them to 150. When you lose four wickets in powerplay, you're always chasing the game," he said.With the defeat, DC's playoff hopes are all but over. RCB, meanwhile, will look to continue their winning ways in their remaining matches to secure a spot in the playoffs.

Pakistan's thrilling victory over Ireland in the second T20I leveled the three-match series at 1-1, but it was match-winner Mohammad Rizwan's heartfelt acknowledgment of Virat Kohli that stole the hearts of the Indian batting legend's fans.Rizwan, who played a pivotal role in Pakistan's comeback win, praised Kohli's influence on Pakistani batsmen. "We have learnt a lot of things from Virat Kohli; I respect him," said Rizwan, who is one of only two batters to average above 50 in T20Is.Pakistan's run-chase got off to a shaky start, but Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman launched a counter-attack, adding 140 runs for the third wicket. Rizwan's unbeaten 75 off 46 balls and Zaman's 78 off 40 balls powered Pakistan to a seven-wicket victory.Rizwan's admiration for Kohli highlights the respect and camaraderie that exists between the two cricketing nations. Kohli, who averages 51.75 in T20Is, has been a role model for many young batsmen, including Rizwan.The T20 World Cup is just around the corner, and both India and Pakistan are in the same group. Their highly anticipated clash on June 9 in New York is sure to be a thrilling encounter.Pakistan will play a decisive third T20I against Ireland on May 14 before heading to England for four T20Is. They will then fly to the US for the T20 World Cup, where they will face their arch-rivals India in a match that promises to be one of the highlights of the tournament.

Virat Kohli and Ishant Sharma Engage in Friendly Banter During RCB vs DC MatchIn a rare display of camaraderie on the cricket field, Virat Kohli and Ishant Sharma engaged in two playful exchanges during the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Delhi Capitals (DC) match.The first incident occurred in the fourth over when Kohli smashed Ishant for a four and a six. However, Ishant had the last laugh by dismissing the former RCB captain. In a playful celebration, Ishant tugged at Kohli's jersey, who responded with a slight smile and a nod.Later, Kohli returned the favor when Ishant came out to bat during Delhi's chase. The former RCB captain teased his longtime friend, showcasing his humorous side.These two cricketers have a long history of playing together, both for the Indian national team and in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Their rapport extends beyond the sport, and they often engage in friendly banter. However, their respect for each other's abilities is evident.In the match, RCB kept their playoff hopes alive thanks to Rajat Patidar's blistering half-century and a strong bowling performance. The hosts secured a 47-run victory over Delhi Capitals.

Virat Kohli's Heated Argument with Umpire Overshadows RCB's VictoryIn a controversial turn of events during the IPL 2024 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC), Virat Kohli engaged in a heated argument with the on-field umpire over a disputed LBW decision. The incident occurred during DC's run chase, involving Abishek Porel's dismissal.As Mohammed Siraj delivered an in-swinging yorker, Porel attempted to jam down his bat. RCB players were adamant that the ball had struck his pads in front of the stumps and opted for a review. However, the third umpire ruled in DC's favor, determining that the ball had come off Porel's bat.Kohli and RCB skipper Faf du Plessis were visibly agitated by the decision, leading to a lengthy discussion with the umpires. The incident sparked a heated debate on social media, with many fans questioning the accuracy of the third umpire's call.Despite the controversy, RCB emerged victorious in the match, posting a total of 187/9. Rajat Patidar played a crucial role, scoring a solid half-century."The wicket was two-paced when I went in. The ball was holding, especially the slower ball. I've been smarter in selecting which bowlers to go after in the last few games. I try my best to read it from the hand. This target is defendable. We can defend easily if we bowl in good areas," Patidar said during the innings break.

Virat Kohli and Ishant Sharma's Enduring Camaraderie: A Tale of Friendship and RespectVirat Kohli and Ishant Sharma, two stalwarts of Indian cricket, share an unbreakable bond that extends beyond the boundaries of the cricket field. Their camaraderie, forged through years of playing together, is a testament to their mutual respect and admiration.During the recent Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vs Delhi Capitals (DC) match in Bengaluru, the duo's playful banter provided a lighthearted moment amidst the intense competition. Kohli, batting with characteristic aggression, smashed Ishant for a four and a six in the fourth over. However, the lanky pacer had the last laugh, dismissing the former RCB captain with a well-executed delivery.In a moment of celebration, Ishant playfully tugged at Kohli's jersey, eliciting a slight smile and a nod of acknowledgment from the dismissed batsman. This exchange showcased the deep-rooted respect between the two players, who have witnessed each other's triumphs and setbacks throughout their careers.Kohli's historic achievement of becoming the first player to play 250 matches for a single team in the Indian Premier League (IPL) further highlighted his enduring legacy in the sport. While other stalwarts like MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Dinesh Karthik have played over 250 IPL games, they have represented multiple teams throughout their careers. Kohli's unwavering loyalty to RCB speaks volumes about his commitment to the franchise and his deep connection with the city of Bengaluru.The camaraderie between Kohli and Ishant is a reminder that even in the competitive world of professional sports, genuine friendships can flourish. Their mutual respect, playful banter, and shared experiences have created a bond that transcends the game itself. As they continue to grace the cricket field, their enduring friendship will undoubtedly inspire and entertain fans for years to come.

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.

Virat Kohli's remarkable consistency in the IPL 2024 has been undeniable, with the star batsman leading the competition with 634 runs from 12 matches. However, despite his impressive tally, some critics have questioned his strike rate of 153.51, suggesting he wasn't scoring quickly enough for a top-order batsman.Kohli responded emphatically to these criticisms with a blistering 92 runs off just 47 balls against Punjab Kings on Thursday night, keeping Bengaluru alive in the playoff race. The former RCB captain subtly responded to critics who had questioned his intent, but his comments also drew criticism from former India batting legend Sunil Gavaskar.Former Australia batter Matthew Hayden weighed in on the debate, stating that such criticisms are common for technical and conventional cricketers like Kohli. "He's a very conventional cricketer. He's a very technical cricketer, which makes him great across all three formats," Hayden said.Hayden praised Kohli's ability to address the shortcomings highlighted in the media and focus on his game. "But one of the big concerns that we've all had is through the middle. And so, like all great champions, if there is something out there in the media or there's something where you can feel yourself to improve, then you get about making your business to do so. And I sense that that's exactly what's happened to Virat Kohli this season," he added.Hayden emphasized the importance of Kohli's improved strike rate against spin, a critical factor for India in international matches. "Those middle phases being that 138 strike-rate against spin, that's critical for India because international sides they'll line up with spin. Every side will have two, sometimes three spinners as their resource, and they'll use it to slow down a Kohli who, inside that powerplay has got such a huge energy and momentum and creates great pressure on opposition," Hayden said.The Australian legend cited examples of former cricketers who responded to criticism by letting their performances speak for themselves. "Steve Waugh never used to have a word to him. Kevin Pietersen, he used to love the pressure. Brian Lara, Don't talk to him. Why would you do that? He'll just smash you. So, guys that are of that kind of quality, if you try and needle them, all they do is get better," Hayden said.