Cricket

Yuvraj Singh, the former Indian cricketer and ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 Ambassador, has expressed his admiration for Dinesh Karthik's performance with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. However, he believes that the experienced wicketkeeper should only be included in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup if he is assured a place in the starting lineup."DK (Karthik) has been batting well, but the thing with DK is the last time (2022) they picked him and the T20 WC was on he didn't get to play," Yuvraj said.Yuvraj emphasized that if Karthik is not going to be a part of the playing XI, there is little point in selecting him for the squad. He pointed out that there are other talented wicketkeepers like Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson, who are both in excellent form and are also younger than Karthik."If DK is not in your XI I don't think there is any point in picking him. There is Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson and both guys are in great form and obviously they are younger. I would like to see DK in the mix, but if he is not going to play then you would rather have someone who is younger and can make the difference," added the former T20 World Cup winner.Dinesh Karthik has been in impressive form in the ongoing IPL 2024 season. Despite batting lower down the order for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he has scored 262 runs in nine matches. As a result, his significant contributions have sparked discussions about his potential inclusion in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.Yuvraj's comments come as India prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which will be held in the United States from June 9th to July 1st. India is one of the favorites to win the tournament, and Yuvraj believes that Karthik could be a valuable addition to the squad if he is given a clear role."If he is going to be in the XI and he is going to play, then I think he is a great option. But if he is not going to play, then I think you have to look at other options," Yuvraj said.The final decision on whether or not to include Karthik in India's squad for the T20 World Cup will be made by the selectors. However, Yuvraj's comments are likely to be taken into consideration, as he is one of the most experienced and successful cricketers in India's history.

Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik, who has been in phenomenal form in this IPL, has not given up on his dream to play for India again and would do "everything he can to be in that flight" to the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies next month. Karthik, who will turn 39 by the time the World Cup kickstarts on June 1, was also part of the last edition of the T20I World Cup in Australia in 2022, which was also his last appearance for Team India. Since then he has become an off-the-field cricket expert, involved in commentary stints.Returning to IPL this season, he has taken his batting to a new level and displayed some astonishing power-hitting to strike at a rate of 205-plus. He is also the third leading run-getter for RCB with 226 runs, behind Virat Kohli (361) and skipper Faf du Plessis (232)."At this stage in my life, it would be the greatest feeling for me to represent India. I'm very, very keen to do so. There is nothing bigger in my life other than representing India in this T20 World Cup," the RCB wicketkeeper-batters said ahead of clash against KKR.With Karthik's also emerging as a contender, the wicketkeeper slot will be a hotly-contested one for which the Team India think tank may pick two at the most. Making a comeback from a near-fatal accident, Rishabh Pant has also showed positive intent while captaining Delhi Capitals, and Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals), Ishan Kishan (Mumbai Indians), KL Rahul (Lucknow Super Giants) are also in the fray.Karthik said he would respect whatever the Big Three -- coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar -- decide. "I also feel there are three very, very stable, honest people who are at the helm to decide what should be the best Indian team for the World Cup -- Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar. And I'm completely with them. I respect any decision that they take. But all I can say is I'm 100 per cent ready, and I'll do everything I can to be on that flight to the World Cup."

Rishabh Pant's Stellar Return Enhances Delhi Capitals' IPL ProspectsAfter a harrowing car crash in December 2022, Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant's return to cricket has been a testament to his resilience and determination. Not only has he resumed his role as a dynamic batter and wicketkeeper, but he has also taken on the captaincy with aplomb.Pant's exceptional performance against Gujarat Titans, where he effected four dismissals (two catches and two stumpings), has drawn praise from his fielding coach, James Hopes. "Pant's keeping is very good," Hopes remarked. "He is rounding in on some pretty good form in the back half of the tournament and he is leading really well."Pant's leadership has been instrumental in the Capitals' impressive fielding performance. Against the Titans, they put up a superb effort, skittling out their opponents for a mere 89 runs in 17.3 overs. Hopes attributed this success to the team's hard work and dedication.In addition to his exceptional wicketkeeping, Pant has also been the leading run-getter for the Capitals. In seven matches, he has amassed 210 runs at a strike rate of 156.71, including two half-centuries. His batting prowess has been a key factor in the team's success.Pant's return to form has not only boosted the Capitals' performance but has also given his fans a reason to celebrate. His triple role as captain, batter, and wicketkeeper is a testament to his versatility and skill. As the tournament progresses, Pant's leadership and contributions will be crucial in determining the Capitals' chances of lifting the IPL trophy.

MS Dhoni's Age-Defying Brilliance Shines in CSK's Match Against Gujarat TitansAt 42 years of age, legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni continues to defy the odds, showcasing his exceptional skills in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) match against Gujarat Titans.During the match, CSK's Daryl Mitchell bowled a full delivery to Vijay Shankar, who attempted a straight drive but only managed to edge the ball. In a moment of brilliance, Dhoni dived to his right and pulled off a spectacular catch, sending Shankar back to the pavilion.The Chepauk crowd erupted in joy as they witnessed Dhoni's remarkable effort behind the stumps. His agility and quick reflexes belied his age, proving that he remains one of the finest wicketkeepers in the game.Dhoni's catch was not the only highlight of CSK's performance. Rachin Ravindra started with a bang, scoring 46 runs off 31 balls, while Shivam Dube finished with a flourish, hitting 49 runs off 26 balls. Together, they helped CSK post a commendable 206 for 6 against Gujarat Titans.As the defending champions, CSK are determined to retain their IPL title. Their victory over Gujarat Titans in the 2023 title clash is a testament to their resilience and determination. With Dhoni at the helm, CSK remains a formidable force in the IPL, capable of overcoming any challenge.