Cricket

Virat Kohli's Furious Outburst in IPL 2024 Match Against KKRRoyal Challengers Bangalore's star batter Virat Kohli erupted in anger after a controversial dismissal during the IPL 2024 match against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday.Kohli's dismissal came in the third over of RCB's innings, when he attempted to defend a slow full toss from Harshit Rana. However, the ball rose awkwardly, and Kohli ended up getting a leading top edge towards the bowler.Kohli immediately signaled for a review, but the TV umpire upheld the on-field umpire's decision, ruling that Kohli was out of his crease when he made contact. The Hawk-Eye trajectory also indicated that the delivery was below waist height.Kohli was visibly furious with the decision, and he engaged in a heated exchange with the on-field umpires before storming off the field. His emotions continued to run high as he knocked over the garbage bin upon reaching the dug out and later smashed his bat to the ground on his way to the dressing room.Kohli's dismissal was a major blow to RCB, as he had been in good form in the tournament. He had scored 7-ball 18 before his controversial departure.The incident sparked a debate on social media, with many fans questioning the umpire's decision. Some argued that Kohli was within his crease when he made contact, while others felt that the delivery was too high to be called a no-ball.Despite Kohli's dismissal, RCB went on to win the match by 5 wickets, thanks to a brilliant innings from Glenn Maxwell. However, the incident is likely to be a talking point for the rest of the tournament.

Virat Kohli's hilarious antics during the IPL 2024 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have set social media ablaze. In a moment that left both players and fans in stitches, Kohli mimicked WWE star The Undertaker's iconic "slit throat" gesture towards KKR opener Sunil Narine.The incident occurred after Kohli, who had initially given the impression that he would be bowling the first over for RCB, hilariously taunted Narine. The all-rounder had just hit a boundary off the first ball of the match, prompting Kohli to playfully replicate the Undertaker's signature move.The moment was captured on camera and quickly went viral, with fans praising Kohli's sense of humor and Narine's good-natured response. The gesture also served as a reminder of the camaraderie and lightheartedness that often exists between players on opposing teams.Earlier in the match, RCB made three changes to their playing XI, bringing in Cameron Green, Karn Sharma, and Mohammed Siraj. KKR, on the other hand, fielded an unchanged lineup.RCB skipper Faf du Plessis opted to chase after winning the toss, citing the favorable conditions for batting later in the evening. He expressed confidence in his team's ability to turn the momentum in their favor despite a recent string of losses.The match between RCB and KKR is a crucial one for both teams, as they look to improve their standings in the IPL 2024 points table. RCB currently sits in sixth place, while KKR is in eighth place.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Faf du Plessis won the toss and elected to bowl first against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Sunday. RCB made three changes to their lineup, bringing in pacer Mohammed Siraj, all-rounder Cameron Green, and leg-spinner Karn Sharma. KKR, on the other hand, fielded an unchanged team from their previous match.RCB's decision to bowl first proved to be a wise one as they restricted KKR to a modest total of 128/10 in 20 overs. Siraj was the pick of the bowlers for RCB, claiming 3/25 in his four overs. He was ably supported by Green (2/23) and Sharma (2/20).In reply, RCB chased down the target with ease, reaching 132/4 in just 18.5 overs. Virat Kohli top-scored for RCB with an unbeaten 41 off 49 balls, while Rajat Patidar contributed 26 off 28 balls.The victory was RCB's second in three matches, while KKR suffered their first defeat of the season.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have been heavily reliant on Virat Kohli's batting prowess this IPL season, but former India pacer Varun Aaron believes it's time for the team's domestic players to step up and lessen the burden on their star batsman.Kohli has been in scintillating form, leading the batting charts with 361 runs in 7 innings and donning the Orange Cap. However, Aaron feels that RCB's domestic players need to contribute more to the team's success."It's just that RCB are not finding the rhythm, the domestic players are just not stepping up," Aaron said on Star Sports. "If you have to be anywhere at the top of the table or the middle of the table at this point, you have to have domestic players who are firing and you cannot always rely on Virat Kohli."Aaron, who played for RCB in the past, emphasized the importance of having domestic players perform well to balance the team's performance. "The other guys have to step up and also all their money is sitting in the dug-out. You can't spend that much cash on players and not have them play," he said.Former Australia captain Aaron Finch echoed Aaron's sentiments, suggesting that RCB needs a dynamic middle-order batsman to support Kohli effectively. "He's (Kohli) scored a lot of runs everywhere. He's a modern-day great. And I think the fact that he's getting runs and RCB are still not making it is a positive sign in one degree," Finch said. "It's that when Virat is playing well, that genuinely carries the rest of the players with him."Finch believes that RCB needs to find a consistent partnership with Kohli and an explosive middle-order player who can provide support. "They just need to find a partnership with him, they need to find an explosive middle-order player who is in form," he said.RCB will face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens on Sunday, and Finch believes that the match has the potential to be an epic encounter. "It (KKR vs RCB) has got all the makings of an epic game," he said.

Virat Kohli's Bat-Breaking Woes Continue as Rinku Singh Shatters GiftAhead of the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), KKR batter Rinku Singh delivered some unfortunate news to RCB superstar Virat Kohli. Singh revealed that he had broken the bat gifted to him by Kohli after their previous encounter.During a pre-match meeting, Singh approached Kohli and sheepishly admitted, "Virat bhai, I broke the bat you gave me." Kohli, known for his generosity, initially inquired about the circumstances surrounding the breakage. Singh explained that he had broken the bat while facing a spinner.Kohli, however, was not amused by Singh's explanation. "You broke it against a spinner? Where did you break it from?" he asked. Singh replied that he had broken it from the middle. Kohli's frustration was evident as he exclaimed, "What should I do then?"Singh attempted to lighten the mood by informing Kohli that he was merely providing an update. However, Kohli remained unmoved. "No problem. Good that you told me. But I don't need information," he said.Despite Kohli's reluctance to provide another bat, Singh persisted. He began knocking the ball on two of Kohli's bats, prompting Kohli to remark, "This bat is no good." Singh then asked if Kohli would send him a new one.Kohli, still smarting from the broken bat incident, replied, "To whom am I sending? You took a bat from me previously. Now you want a second bat in the second game? Because of you, I face consequences later."Singh, sensing Kohli's annoyance, quickly returned the bats to him. Kohli, with a hint of resignation, said, "I swear on you, don't break the bat again. I can show you the broken bat."While Kohli refused to give Singh a new bat in the video, it remains to be seen if he will change his mind after the match between the two teams on Sunday.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season has reached its halfway point, and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) find themselves struggling at the bottom of the standings with just one win from seven matches. Their latest defeat came against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, where they conceded a record-breaking 287 runs, the highest total in franchise T20 cricket. Despite scoring 262 in reply, becoming the first team to score over 250 while chasing, RCB's bowling woes continue to haunt them.RCB's batting has been impressive, with Virat Kohli leading the IPL run-scorers chart and Dinesh Karthik excelling as a finisher. However, their bowling attack has been a major concern. Mohammed Siraj has had a below-par season, and the spin attack has failed to contain opposition batters. Captain Faf du Plessis has admitted that they "don't have as many weapons" with the ball.RCB have used 20 players so far this season, struggling to find a settled XI. Their game against SRH highlighted their bowling woes, with four bowlers conceding over 50 runs each, a first in the IPL.Despite their struggles, RCB can still qualify for the playoffs if they win all their remaining league fixtures. However, this seems unlikely given their underperforming bowling unit and inexperienced domestic contingent.To qualify, RCB must treat every game as a knockout and win their next seven matches to reach 16 points. Even then, their poor Net Run Rate may hinder their chances.RCB's upcoming fixtures include matches against former IPL champions, making their task even more challenging. Their bowlers, including Siraj, Reece Topley, Lockie Ferguson, and others, need to improve their economy and start taking wickets.Overseas players like Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Topley, and Ferguson must also deliver. RCB has made comebacks in the past, but they will need a significant turnaround to reach the playoffs this season.

Virat Kohli, the enigmatic Indian batsman, has achieved unparalleled success in his illustrious career. However, he believes that the terms "struggle" and "sacrifice" do not accurately describe his journey to the top.In a recent interview, Kohli shared his perspective on the challenges he has faced. "Honestly, sitting in my position, I cannot use words like struggle and sacrifice," he said. "For me, there has been no struggle and no sacrifice. I am doing what I love."Kohli emphasized that true struggle is experienced by those who lack basic necessities. "Struggle uski hoti hai jisko do waqt ki roti nahi milti hai (The one who doesn't get two square meals in a day, he's the one who's struggling)," he explained.He acknowledged that hard work is an essential ingredient for success, but he believes it should not be glorified as a struggle. "You can glorify your hard work by calling it a struggle, you can put a cherry on top, no one is asking you to go the gym, but you have to feed your family."Kohli expressed gratitude for his privileged position as a professional cricketer. "I am just grateful, actually, I am in a privileged position as I am getting to do what I have always loved to do. I play a sport, which is my profession."He urged people to put their own challenges into perspective. "If you really think about the real problems that people face in life, it's not done. You can't compare getting out in a Test series to someone who doesn't have a roof in his house."Kohli's words resonated with the audience, who erupted in applause. His message highlights the importance of recognizing the true struggles faced by many and appreciating the opportunities we have.Despite his team Royal Challengers Bengaluru's struggles in the ongoing IPL, Kohli remains the tournament's leading run-scorer with 361 runs in 7 matches. His unwavering determination and passion for the game continue to inspire millions of fans around the world.

In the tranquil ambiance of Kolkata's Eden Gardens, a poignant moment unfolded between Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir and Royal Challengers Bangalore star batter Virat Kohli. On the eve of their highly anticipated clash, the two cricketing icons engaged in a heartfelt conversation that transcended rivalry and celebrated the essence of sportsmanship.Their discussion delved into the complexities of cricketing rivalry and the importance of camaraderie. With mutual respect as their guiding principle, they explored the responsibilities of leadership and the impact it has on both players and fans.Last year's heated confrontation between Kohli and Gambhir had left a bitter taste in the mouths of fans. However, this season, they have buried the hatchet, embracing a spirit of reconciliation. After their recent clash in Bengaluru, they were seen hugging and sharing smiles, a testament to their newfound understanding.Kohli acknowledged that his newfound composure has disappointed some fans, who have missed the on-field "masala" associated with his fiery persona. Yet, his conversation with Gambhir highlighted the evolution of his leadership style, emphasizing the importance of maturity and grace.As the sun began to set on the historic ground, their exchange left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and players alike. It epitomized the spirit of cricket, a game that fosters bonds among its protagonists, transcending the boundaries of competition.Kohli's current form has been exceptional, with the 35-year-old leading the run-scoring charts in the ongoing IPL season. With 361 runs in 7 games, including two half-centuries and a ton, he has been a beacon of consistency for RCB.Despite Kohli's individual brilliance, RCB's overall performance has been disappointing. With six defeats and a solitary win in their 7 matches so far, they languish at the bottom of the table. However, the team remains hopeful of a turnaround, inspired by the leadership and experience of their star batter.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) face a daunting task as they prepare to take on the dominant Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) match on April 21. RCB's hopes of securing their maiden IPL title have been severely dented by a string of six losses in seven matches.With five consecutive defeats, RCB now find themselves at the bottom of the standings and must win their remaining seven games to keep their playoff aspirations alive. The team's struggles have been primarily attributed to their weak bowling attack and heavy reliance on the batting prowess of Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and Dinesh Karthik."From a bowling perspective, we don't have as many weapons. So, unfortunately, it comes down to the batters to make sure that we use our form and our confidence. The scores that we put on the board are probably going to be the only way we are going to get into the competition," admitted RCB skipper Du Plessis.The team's bowlers will undoubtedly be haunted by the memory of conceding the IPL's record total of 287/3 to Sunrisers Hyderabad in their previous match. RCB may consider bringing back their most expensive buy this season, Alzarri Joseph, to bolster their bowling alongside Mohammed Siraj, who was rested against SRH. Joseph has taken only one wicket in three appearances for RCB while conceding runs at an alarming rate of 11.89 per over.Glenn Maxwell's spin could also be a valuable asset, but the struggling Australian all-rounder, who withdrew from the SRH game citing "mental fatigue," is also battling a hip strain that may keep him out of action for some time.RCB's batting has been heavily reliant on their two openers, Kohli and Du Plessis, and Karthik, while the rest of the players have failed to deliver. Kohli remains the leading run-scorer with 361 runs at an average of 72.20, but his middle-over strike rate of 135 has been a concern. The star Indian batter has often been seen slowing down against spinners in the crucial 7-15th over phase after getting a start in the power play.Du Plessis has been their next best batter with 232 runs, but it's seasoned wicketkeeper-batter Karthik who has been phenomenal in his final IPL season. The veteran has amassed 226 runs at a strike rate of over 205, and in the monstrous chase against SRH, it was his 35-ball 83 that gave RCB hope of scripting an improbable win before they fell short by 25 runs.The trio will once again have to play a key role against the likes of Sunil Narine, Mitchell Starc, and Harshit Rana. KKR will also be coming off a defeat to Rajasthan Royals in a last-ball finish. With one match less played than RCB, KKR will be eager to return to winning ways and inch closer to the playoffs by taking their tally to 10 points at the midway stage.The biggest threat for RCB will be Narine, not just with the ball but also with the bat at the top of the order. Narine, who scored his maiden T20 century in their last match against RR, is KKR's leading run-getter this season with 276 runs at an incredible strike rate of over 187. The next best KKR batter is his opening partner Phil Salt, who has struck at a rate of over 151. The pair's splendid form means that the likes of Rinku Singh and Andre Russell have got limited opportunities.With a maiden fifty to his name, youngster Angkrish Raghuvanshi has impressed with his batting. RCB will have to target the KKR top-three to expose their batting and give themselves some chance.With the city in the grip of an extreme heat wave, the temperature is expected to soar to 41 degrees Celsius on Sunday.