News Analysis India

Tag: IPL 2024

  • MS Dhoni Spotted Riding Bike On Ranchi Roads After CSK Crashed Out Of IPL 2024; Watch | cricket news

    MS Dhoni wasted no time after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) crashed out of IPL 2024, a couple of days back, and flew back to his hometown Ranchi with his family. A lot happened in CSK’s last league game which was against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at M Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru. After the game ended, Dhoni was spotted waiting for the RCB players on the sidelines before he decided to leave the field after seeing that RCB players were still busy celebrating their playoffs qualification. This match was a virtual quarter-final as the winner was going to the playoffs. While CSK needed to register a win or lose by a small margin, RCB needed to beat CSK by certain margin. The hosts were able to do so.

    Many are believing it to be Dhoni’s last IPL, saying he may not return to play next season. However, nothing is confirmed yet as ‘Thala’ himself is to speak anything on his retirement.

    Meanwhile, Dhoni is back at his home and took out his old bike for a ride through the city. A video went viral on the internet, two days after the match, in which Dhoni can be seen coming from a bike ride and entering his farmhouse located on the outskirts of Ranchi.

    Watch Dhoni’s bike ride video below:

    Thala Dhoni back to his routine life! ___@MSDhoni #MSDhoni #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/Yow2so0RXe

    — DHONI Era_ _ (@TheDhoniEra) May 20, 2024

    A controversy erupted after Dhoni left the field without the customary hand shake ritual after the match. Dhoni shook hands of the RCB staff and management after the game before entering the dressing room. Later, Virat Kohli was seen entering the CSK dressing room to meet Dhoni as he had sensed that something might not be right. Commentator Harsha Bhogle and former England captain Michael Vaughan spoke to Cricbuzz on the scenes and said that RCB players should have firstly shaken hands with the CSK players and then continued to celebrate their special win.

    Fans do not know whether this was Dhoni’s last match or not. Dhoni fans believe that RCB players should have given him some respect as it could turn out to the last time the world has seen Dhoni in a yellow jersey.

  • ‘Classless Players, Apni Aukaat Mat Bhulo’: CSK, RCB Fans Begin Social Media War After Faf du Plessis And Co ‘Neglect’ MS Dhoni | cricket news

    After the IPL 2024 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), a controversy took place and interestingly it involved the former Chennai captain MS Dhoni, who has possibly played his last IPL. Dhoni has not yet announced his IPL retirement but with the way he thanked the Chennai crowd after their last match at home, it appears ‘Thala’ wants to bid goodbye to the only cricket tournament he plays after international retirement. Dhoni would have liked to end on a good note, with the record-making sixth IPL trophy. Alas, it was not to be.

    Also Read | WATCH: Ambati Rayudu In Tears As RCB Knock CSK Out Of IPL 2024

    CSK had themselves to be blamed as after starting well, their campaignd derailed and this season they lost more games at home than expected. In the end, they needed a simple win to qualify for the playoffs. But they batted poorly in the chase and could not achieve the cut-off score even to qualify.

    RCB, on the other hand, won 6 matches on the trot to qualify. They won some of these matches by good margin also which boosted their Net Run rate (NRR). They were on the cusp on being knocked out early but they picked up their game in the last 3 weeks and will now play the Eliminator vs Rajasthan Royals.

    RCB fought hard and had every right to celebrate the win over CSK in their lowest group match. The celebrations were extended on the ground. An upset MS Dhoni lined up in a queue to shake hands with the RCB players. Upon seeing their celebration, he left the ground after shaking hands with the support staff of the opposition camp.

    One cannot say whether Dhoni got angered by RCB’s extended celebrations over playoffs qualification on the field but cameras have recorded him leaving the ground.

    On social media, a sort of war has erupted since then. RCB fans are targeting Dhoni for not waiting to shake hands with opposition players. On the other hand, CSK fans are also alleging that RCB players did not show respect to a senior player like MSD by ignoring him.

    One Twitter user, who happens to be a CSK fan, wrote that RCB players are classless and the should not forget that Dhoni won 5 IPL titles for CSK and should have been respected. The RCB fans also gave fitting replies to the CSK fan, saying that all MSD had to was walk 50 meters or less to shake hands.

    Check out RCB and CSK fans at loggerheads below:

    The classless RCB players who took turns to do cartwheels on the field like they had won the IPL trophy making the 5 times champions CSK team wait forever. Cricbuzz rightly criticized the RCB players for not shaking hands with #Dhoni. No class.

    Apni Aukaat mat bhulo#RCBvsCSK pic.twitter.com/iDpiu4Xe1k — Riya Sharma (@RiyaSharma9724) May 19, 2024

    Its Matter Of just 30 Seconds

    Ms Dhoni Couldn’t Walk 50meters For 30 Seconds To Shake Hands? pic.twitter.com/PY78qEu7gA

    — kanuga (@kanuga1431) May 19, 2024

    This man could walk to the pitch when he was already out just to argue with umpires on a no-ball but can’t walk 50m to shake hands with opposition?? What happened to spirit of cricket??https://t.co/LKa7TPIOIU — Akshay (@aksh__96) May 19, 2024

    The mystery continues over Dhoni’s future at CSK. Is he going to come back to win another title for Chennai next season as a player. Experts say that if BCCI keeps the Impact Player rule, in which 12 players can take part in an IPL game across the two innings, there are more chances for aging Dhoni playing next season again. The rule gives him the cushion to play purely as a batter lower down the order.

  • WATCH: Matthew Hayden’s Daughter Grace Enjoys Famous Hyderabadi Biryani With Fans, Video Goes Viral | cricket news

    Star Sports cricket presenter, Grace Hayden who’s the daughter of Australia’s legendary cricketer Matthew Hayden had a fun day out in Hyderabad as she enjoyed the local delicacies. She visited the ‘Paradise Biryani’ joint and tried some biryani with some desserts as well. She had SRH fans for company who helped her try different and famous dishes of the town.

    “Biryani in Hyderabad is an emotion! Experience the essence of Hyderabad with #GraceHayden as she indulges in the iconic Hyderabadi Biryani alongside passionate @SunRisers fans!,” Star Sports captioned the video, which has gone viral, on their social media handles. (Watch: MS Dhoni Refuses To Wait For Customary Handshake As RCB Players Celebrate)

    Watch the clip here…

    Biryani in Hyderabad is an emotion

    Experience the essence of Hyderabad with #GraceHayden as she indulges in the iconic Hyderabadi Biryani alongside passionate @SunRisers fans.

    #LSGvMI | TODAY, 6:30 PM #IPLOnStar pic.twitter.com/l75BhuvmQT Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 16, 2024

    Coming to the IPL, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) completed their fairytale comeback in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season, securing the playoff spot with a 27-run win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Bengaluru on Saturday. RCB is in fourth place with seven wins and seven losses, with 14 points. CSK is in the fifth spot with seven wins and seven losses, but they have slid down to fifth due to a lower net-run rate.

    In the run-chase of 219 runs, and an additional responsibility to score at least 201 runs to achieve playoff qualification, CSK was off to a poor start as skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was dismissed for a golden duck by Glenn Maxwell. RCB got the wicket on the very first ball of the innings. The duo of Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell, two New Zealand stars, attempted to rebuild the innings. However, a poor shot by Mitchell gave RCB his wicket for just four runs. Yash Dayal took the wicket, with Virat Kohli getting a catch at mid-off. CSK was 19/2 in 2.2 overs. (Virat Kohli’s Reaction As Dinesh Karthik Explains How MS Dhoni’s 110 Meter Six Helped RCB Win Goes Viral – Watch)

    Ajinkya Rahane joined forces with Ravindra, keeping the run-rate going with some fine boundaries. CSK reached the 50-run mark in 5.3 overs. At the end of six overs, CSK was 58/2, with Ravindra (23*) and Rahane (22*) unbeaten. The duo reached the 50-run mark in 30 balls. In the ninth over, pacer Lockie Ferguson, removed a well-settled Rahane for 33 in 22 balls, with three fours and a six. CSK is 85/3 in 9.1 overs. Skipper Faf took a catch, tumbling down while taking it.

    Halfway through their innings, CSK was 87/3, with Ravindra (39*) and Shivam Dube (1*) unbeaten. Ravindra opened the shackles, with some fours and sixes on an over by Lockie. 100 runs came up in 11.2 overs. He also reached his maiden IPL fifty in 31 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes. (RCB Fans Celebrate Historic Playoff Qualification In Crazy Fashion, Video Goes Viral – Watch)

    However, RCB soon got the important wicket of Ravindra, as he was run out by Mahipal Lomror and Dinesh Karthik for 61 in 37 balls, with five fours and three sixes. CSK was 115/4 in 13 overs. In the 14th over, Cameron Green took the ball and got RCB the huge wicket of a struggling Dube, for seven runs in 15 balls. Lockie took a fine catch at long-on. CSK was 119/5 in 13.4 overs.

    RCB continued to get back in the game, getting Santner for three runs, with Faf taking a fine catch at the edge of the ring. CSK was 129/6 in 15 overs. MS Dhoni was the next batsman on the crease. Ravindra Jadeja and MS continued to keep CSK in the hunt, reaching the 150-run mark in 16.5 overs. CSK was 151/6 in 17 overs, needing 40 more runs to qualify in the final three overs.

    With some fine boundaries and sixes, Jadeja-MS kept CSK’s hopes alive, bringing them to 166/6 in 18 overs, needing 35 runs to secure the playoff spot. In the last over, the duo of Dhoni and Jadeja brought down the equation to 17 runs in the final over for qualification.

    Yash Dayal started the over by conceding a six, but got MS’s wicket on the next ball. He was gone for 25 in 13 balls, with three fours and a six. CSK was 190/7 in 19.2 overs. RCB successfully secured the playoff spot, restricting CSK to 191/7, with Jadeja (42*) and Shardul Thakur (1*) unbeaten. Dayal (2/42) was the pick of the bowlers for RCB. Lockie, Green, Maxwell, and Siraj took a wicket each.

    Earlier, Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis’ blitzkrieg knocks helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) score 218/5 against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. After winning the toss, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s CSK sent RCB to bat in the first inning.

    Virat Kohli (47 runs from 29 balls, 3 fours, and 4 sixes) and Faf du Plessis (54 runs from 39 balls, 3 fours, and 3 sixes) helped RCB get off to a great start. CSK pacer Tushar Deshpande started the attack in the first inning and gave up only two runs. However, in the second over, CSK’s Shardul Thakur gave up 16 runs as RCB batters hammered boundaries.

    The opening duo of Kohli and Du Plessis had a great start to the innings. But rain played a spoilsport in the third over, following which RCB lost momentum in the game. The game started again after a few minutes, but CSK bowlers kept a check on the run rate on Saturday.

    In the 10th over, Kohli smashed a six over the mid-wicket against Santner. But in the next ball of the over, Kohli tried to smash the ball over the long-on, but Daryl Mitchell made no mistake to grab the ball. Kohli made 47 runs from 29 balls with 3 fours and 4 sixes.

    Rajat Patidar replaced Kohli on the field and tried to make a partnership with RCB skipper Du Plessis. In the 11th over, Ravindra Jadeja gave away 20 runs as Du Plessis hammered one four and six fours.

    Sooner, Patidar (41 runs from 23 balls, 2 fours, and 4 sixes) started to set on the crease as he hammered a six in the 12th over against Theekshana. The RCB skipper displayed stupendous skill on the crease; he hammered a 35-ball fifty in the 12th over.

    In the 13th over, Du Plessis was unlucky as he was run out by Santner. Cameron Green replaced the skipper on the crease and did not make Du Plessis’ absence felt on the field. The duo of Patidar and Green played a 50-run partnership in the 17th over, and helped RCB get an upper hand in the game.

    Patidar was unlucky, as he was dismissed in the 18th over by Shardul Thakur. The RCB batsman tried to smash the ball over the long-on, but it landed on Mitchell’s hand. Thakur gave away 16 runs and picked up one wicket in the 18th over.

    In the 19th over, Dinesh Karthik (14 runs from 6 balls, 1 four, and 1 six) found an edge and was taken by CSK wicketkeeper MS Dhoni. Glenn Maxwell (16 runs from 5 balls, 2 fours, and 1 six) replaced Karthik on the crease and smashed a four after smashing it over the keeper in his first ball on the field. Maxwell had a great start in the final over and slammed a six and four in the third and fourth balls. But on the fifth ball, Thakur removed Maxwell from the crease.

    In the last ball of the first inning, no runs were scored, and RCB finished at 218/5, while CSK needed 219 runs to win the match. During the run chase, the Chennai-based franchise needed to score 201 runs to qualify for the play-offs. Shardul Thakur led the CSK bowling attack as he picked up two wickets in his four-over spell. Deshpande and Santner took one wicket each in their respective spells.

    Brief score: Royal Challengers Bengaluru 218/5 (Faf du Plessis 54, Virat Kohli 47, Rajat Patidar 41; Shardul Thakur 2/61) beat Chennai Super Kings: 191/7 (Rachin Ravindra 61, Ravindra Jadeja 42, Yash Dayal 2/61) 42). (With ANI inputs)

  • ‘Definitely…’: Has MS Dhoni Played His Last IPL Game? Suresh Raina Replies After CSK Knocked Out Of IPL 2024 By RCB | cricket news

    An image of crestfallen MS Dhoni went viral online as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) went closer and closer to defeat and early exit from IPL 2024. He was sitting in the dugout with no expression on his face yet it said many things. Dhoni has not said it yet but this is believed to be his last time in a yellow jersey. When CSK played their last match at Chepauk, the fans were asked to stay back and they did as Dhoni did a walk of honor and thanked them for their backing and support. The actions have said that this was Dhoni’s last IPL but the man himself has not said that himself. With CSK getting knocked out, is he going to return one more time?

    Also Read | WATCH: Faf Du Plessis Stunned As Virat Kohli Hits Six On Roof Of Chinnaswamy During RCB Vs CSK IPL 2024 Match

    Dhoni’s best friend and former India and CSK teammate Suresh Raina believes so. Speaking to the commentators after CSK were knocked out by RCB, Raina was asked if we have seen Dhoni for the last time in IPL, the former player said, “Definitely not”.

    It will be interesting to see what decision Dhoni makes now that his IPL 2024 has come to an end. He was looking to win CSK their sixth IPL trophy to make them the most successful IPL franchise of all time. But that cannot happen now until 2025.

    Coming to the match, CSK were not helped by the fact that their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad got out for a golden duck. Rachin Ravindra did hit 61 off 37 balls but others really gave up their guns.. It was a chase of 218 and even if CSK had to lose the match, they had to lose by 18 runs or less to ensure they were going to the playoffs. .

    Ravindra Jadeja hit an unbeaten 42 off 22 balls and Dhoni smashed 13-ball 25 but in the end, it was not enough. RCB, on the back of this impressive win, go into playoffs and will play the Eliminator on May 22. They must win three games on the trot to win the title. Two weeks ago, they were on the cusp going out. But they have played really well to come out of the slumber and reach the top four.

  • ‘I Don’t Need Anyone’s Approval…’,: Virat Kohli’s Defiant Response To Critics Ahead Of RCB vs CSK In IPL 2024 | cricket news

    As the IPL 2024 season unfolds, Virat Kohli finds himself at the center of a storm, his performances scrutinized and his methods questioned. But for the batting maestro, external noise holds little significance – his currency is performance, a philosophy instilled by his father from an early age. In a candid interview ahead of the high-stakes RCB vs CSK clash, Kohli addressed the ongoing debate surrounding his strike rate. “I don’t need anyone’s approval or assurance,” he asserted, his words carrying the weight of a seasoned campaigner. “Performance is my only currency.”

    Also Read: IPL 2024 RCB vs CSK Weather Report From Bengaluru: Will Rain Play Spoilsport?

    Kohli’s resolute stance echoes the sentiment of his predecessor, MS Dhoni, whose unorthodox batting approach often drew criticism. Yet, Dhoni’s ability to finish matches for India cemented his legacy, a trait Kohli admires. “He’s probably the only person who knows what he’s doing!” Kohli exclaimed, drawing parallels to his own mindset of taking the game deep.

    The RCB Connection

    For Kohli, the motivation to excel extends beyond personal milestones. His unwavering commitment to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise stems from the deep connection he shares with the fans and the camaraderie within the team.

    “These little things, the expressions on people’s faces when they see you, you cannot demand it from fans. It’s a very organic process,” Kohli reflected. In an era where player loyalty is often tested, Kohli’s dedication to RCB stands as a testament to the value he places on the human aspect of the game.

    The Impact Player Debate

    As the IPL embraces the ‘Impact Player’ rule, a new dynamic has emerged, one that Kohli believes has disrupted the balance between bat and ball. Echoing Rohit Sharma’s sentiments, Kohli expressed concern over the dominance of batters, stating, “Bowlers are feeling like what they should do.”

    With teams struggling to defend even formidable totals, Kohli called for a rethink of the rule. “I am sure Jay bhai (BCCI secretary Jay Shah) has mentioned it already that they will review it,” he said, advocating for a balanced approach that allows both disciplines to thrive.

    The Pursuit of Excellence

    At the core of Kohli’s philosophy lies an unwavering pursuit of excellence, a journey that began with his father’s guidance. “Only if you’re capable, you will make it,” Kohli recounted, reflecting on the values ​​that have shaped his remarkable career. As the cricket world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the Kohli saga, one thing is certain: this modern-day legend will continue to march to the beat of his own drum, mastering the game on his own terms, and leaving an indelible mark on the sport he loves.

  • ‘Nicholas Pooran Scared Him Off,’ Arjun Tendulkar Brutally Trolled After Leaving His Over Incomplete During MI Vs LSG IPL 2024 Match | cricket news

    Son of India’s legendary cricket Sachin Tendulkar, Arjun Tendulkar made his first appearance in the IPL 2024 season for Mumbai Indians (MI) in their last league fixture against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Wankhede Stadium. Interestingly, in his third over, the first two balls were smashed for sixes by Nicholas Pooran and the left-arm pacer was taken off the field with four balls still left in his over.

    Fans on social media did not leave the pacer alone on the internet as he got trolled for getting smashed for back to back sixes. However, Arjun got injured while bowling and that was the reason he left the field but fans on internet suggested he got scared of getting smashed for more sixes. (WATCH: Marcus Stoinis Screams At Arjun Tendulkar For Threatening Him During MI Vs LSG IPL 2024 Match)

    Checkout the reactions here…

    Pooran was in full mood to hit 6 sixes off arjun tendulkar but sachin called him back#MIvsLSG pic.twitter.com/kAKSXnEcjf — Giriraj Dhaker (@cricket24_) May 17, 2024

    Arjun Tendulkar Going Back To Dressing Room After Pooran Hit Him Two Back To Back Sixes He Didn’t Even Complete His Over #MIvsLSG #RCBvCSK #CSKvRCB pic.twitter.com/OlyNj9k1QW Khabri_Prasang (@Prasang_) May 17, 2024

    Arjun Tendulkar after bowling 2 overs#LSGvsMIpic.twitter.com/Wk2snWnhdG Vaibhav Hatwal (@vaibhav_hatwal) May 17, 2024

    Sachin tendulkar was a better bowler than arjun tendulkar ..#MIvsLSGpic.twitter.com/zho6S1T73x Haroon Mustafa (@CRICFOOTHAROON) May 17, 2024

    Arjun Tendulkar after Nicholas Pooran hitting boundary in his over #MIvsLSG pic.twitter.com/ylAWvYbj9f

    — Ashutosh Srivastava (@sri_ashutosh08) May 17, 2024

    Moving on to the season’s most imporant game of the league stages, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will host Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. Let’s take a look at how the Faf-Du Plessis-led side can qualify for the playoffs of the ongoing 17th edition of the cash-rich league.

    RCB is coming into the match with five wins on the trot after losing seven of the first eight matches this season but have a great chance to make the IPL playoffs for the ninth time.

    On the other hand, defending champions CSK have been more consistent throughout the season and are better placed to make their 13th playoff appearance. The five-time champions beat RCB in the season’s first clash by six wickets.

    Chennai Super Kings are fourth on the points table with 14 points from 13 matches while Royal Challengers Bengaluru are at sixth with 12 points from as many games. CSK also have a better net run rate of 0.528 than RCB’s 0.387.

    To replace the Super Kings in the top four, RCB needs to win the match by at least 18 runs if they score a minimum of 200 runs batting first or win in 18.1 overs if they are chasing 200.

    Chennai Super Kings, meanwhile, will qualify for the IPL 2024 playoffs if they win the match, regardless of the margin of victory. The RCB vs CSK match will also see this season’s two top run scorers go head-to-head on Saturday. RCB’s Virat Kohli leads the race for Orange Cap with 661 runs while CSK’s Ruturaj Gaikwad, who took over the team’s captaincy from former Indian T20 captain MS Dhoni this season, is second with a tally of 583. Tushar Deshpande (16 wickets) and Yash Dayal. (13 wickets) have been top wicket-takers for CSK and RCB, respectively. (With ANI inputs)

  • Who Will Win RCB vs CSK Game To Claim Final IPL 2024 Playoffs Spot? Here’s What Cricket Experts Are Saying | cricket news

    In a high-stakes showdown at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will battle for the final playoff spot in IPL 2024. This Saturday’s clash is more than just a game; it’s a collision of cricketing titans, Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni, both aiming to lead their teams to glory. As the IPL 2024 season nears its climax, the tension is palpable. CSK, led by the legendary MS Dhoni, currently hold the edge. A win against RCB guarantees them a spot in the playoffs. Even a narrow loss might suffice if Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) falter in their final matches. CSK’s superior net run rate provides a crucial cushion. On the flip side, RCB, driven by the relentless Virat Kohli, must win convincingly to leapfrog CSK in the points table. With both teams’ fortunes hanging in the balance, this match promises to be a nail-biter.

    Msdhoni is doing practice of bowling for RCB vs CSK, match hope its not you last match mahi _#RCBvsCSK

    pic.twitter.com/inZwcganSN — Berlin (@realwitcher_) May 17, 2024

    MS Dhoni: The Chinnaswamy Specialist

    Former Indian pacer Varun Aaron has fueled the anticipation by predicting an MS Dhoni masterclass. Dhoni’s affinity for the Chinnaswamy Stadium is well-documented, having played numerous iconic innings here. His record against RCB is formidable, with the most sixes hit against any opponent in IPL history. Aaron reminisced about Dhoni’s last-over heroics against Umesh Yadav, underlining his penchant for drama and big moments.

    “MS Dhoni at Chinnaswamy Stadium is really, really dangerous,” Aaron asserted on Star Sports. His assessment isn’t just based on statistics but on the palpable aura Dhoni carries, especially in high-pressure games.

    Kohli’s Quest and RCB’s Momentum

    For RCB, the form of Virat Kohli is both a boon and a burden. Kohli, the current Orange Cap holder, has been in scintillating touch, amassing 661 runs at a strike rate of 155.16. Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif likened Kohli’s current mindset to that of a hermit, completely unfazed by the opposition.

    “Kohli is in a zone where no bowler can bother him,” Kaif noted. His century and five fifties this season highlight his consistency and hunger to propel RCB to their first IPL title. Besides Kohli, other players like Faf du Plessis and Mohammed Siraj have also stepped up, contributing significantly to RCB’s five-match winning streak.

    The X-Factors: Siraj and the Chinnaswamy Pitch

    RCB’s bowling, often their Achilles’ heel, has shown signs of resurgence. Mohammed Siraj, in particular, has been pivotal. His ability to deliver pinpoint yorkers and maintain pressure has earned him accolades. Irfan Pathan highlighted Siraj’s form, predicting that his performance could be a game-changer.

    The Chinnaswamy pitch, known for its high-scoring games, adds another layer of intrigue. Historically favoring batsmen, the venue has also seen bowlers like Siraj excel under pressure.

    Expert Predictions: Who Will Prevail?

    Cricket pundits are divided on their predictions for this match. Brian Lara believes RCB’s current momentum gives them an edge. “RCB’s five-match winning streak is a testament to their form and determination,” Lara commented. He also emphasized the holistic contributions from the team, beyond just Kohli’s brilliance.

    However, the narrative wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging Dhoni’s unmatched experience and tactical acumen. Robin Uthappa added to the speculation, suggesting that even if this isn’t Dhoni’s last IPL game, he would want to leave an indelible mark.

  • IPL 2024 Qualification Scenarios: KKR Confirmed Table-Toppers; Pressure On RR To Finish In Top-Two As CSK, RCB Fight For One Spot | cricket news

    IPL 2024 is entering the last week of the group stages but we still do not have a clear picture of who will be the top four teams this season. After Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Guwahati last night, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have confirmed their place at the top. They are set to play the Qualifier 1 on May 21. But pressure has increased on RR to finish in top-two as they have now lost four matches in a row. SRH are now in with a chance to finish in the top-two while one among RCB and CSK can make it to the top four. Let’s check at scenarios for each team to qualify for the playoffs and how some can finish in the top-two below.

    How can RR finish in the top-two?

    RR are most certainly going to make it to the playoffs but their top-two finish is still not guaranteed. They will be aiming for a top-two finish. But how can they achieve that?

    If RR defeat KKR, they are likely to secure a top-two finish. However, if SRH win their remaining matches by significant margins, they could potentially push RR out of the second position. Conversely, if RR lose to KKR and SRH also suffer losses in their upcoming games, particularly both or at least one of them, and CSK triumph over RCB, then CSK might replace RR in the second spot.

    CSK’s fight for playoffs spot

    CSK’s scenario is straightforward: Win their final league match against RCB to secure a playoff berth by reaching the IPL 2024 playoff qualification mark of 16 points. If they lose, they must ensure a narrow defeat margin (less than 18 runs if RCB scores over 200, or not lose before 18.1 overs if defending a 200 target) to maintain a better net run rate than RCB’s. If RCB wins, they’ll tie with CSK on points, bringing net run rate into consideration. However, if SRH loses both their remaining matches, there’s a chance for both CSK and RCB to advance to the playoffs if RCB defeats CSK. Net run rate would then become crucial.

    And SRH? How can they qualify?

    With two games left, SRH has a chance to secure the second spot in the points table and secure a place in Qualifier 1. To do so, they need to win both remaining matches and rely on RR losing to KKR. Even winning one of the last two games would guarantee SRH a playoff spot, leaving the final spot contested between CSK and RCB. However, if SRH loses both matches, they might face discussions on net run rate alongside CSK and RCB, contingent on the outcome of the RCB vs CSK match on Saturday.

    What RCB needs to do?

    RCB’s fifth consecutive victory has thrust them into contention for a playoff berth, with their final league match against CSK now the decider. A loss would spell the end of RCB’s campaign, while a win would secure their playoff position. However, to achieve this, RCB must defeat CSK by a margin exceeding 18 runs (if they score 200) or chase down a 200-run target within 18.1 overs to surpass CSK’s net run rate. Although SRH remains a threat, if they lose their remaining matches and stay below 14 points, and if RCB defeats CSK by the specified margin, both RCB and CSK could advance to the top 4.

  • IPL 2024: Blame Game In LSG Camp After Loss To DC As KL Rahul Slams Team | cricket news

    Lucknow Super Giants suffered third consecutive loss in IPL 2024 going down against Delhi Capitals (DC) by 19 runs. LSG captain KL Rahul pinpointed the team’s struggles in the powerplay as the primary reason for their position in the league. Reflecting on the match, Rahul emphasized, “Losing a lot of wickets in the powerplay was the big reason why we are in this position.” Despite a valiant effort from Nicholas Pooran and Arshad Khan, Lucknow Super Giants fell short, succumbing to a 19-run defeat at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

    Coming to the match, DC, opting to bat first, posted a big total of 208/4 in their allotted 20 overs. Stubbs and Abhishek Porel spearheaded the innings with fine fifties, propelling their team to a formidable total. Naveen-ul-Haq emerged as the top bowler for Lucknow Super Giants, claiming figures of 2/51.

    In response, Lucknow Super Giants faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 44/4. However, resilient half-centuries from Nicholas Pooran and Arshad Khan kept their hopes alive. Despite their efforts, the relentless bowling performance from Delhi Capitals restricted Lucknow Super Giants to 189/9 by the end of their innings.

    Rahul lamented the missed opportunity, stating, “When we got JFM out in the first over we should have capitalized, but they – Hope and Porel – showed a lot of intent.” He acknowledged the significance of a solid start in setting the stage for their power-hitters like Stoinis and Pooran.

    Expressing disappointment, Rahul highlighted a recurring issue throughout the season, “We keep losing a lot of wickets in the powerplay, we never get a solid start to get the likes of Stoinis and Pooran in.” This consistent struggle to establish a solid foundation has hindered Lucknow Super Giants’ performance in the league.

    With this defeat, Delhi Capitals climbed to the fifth position in the standings, concluding their season with seven wins and 14 points. Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants slipped to seventh place, managing six wins and 12 points. The fate of both teams’ playoff aspirations now hangs in the balance, contingent upon the outcomes of the remaining fixtures involving other franchises.

  • WATCH: Rare Scene As Virat Kohli Smiles After Getting Out Against Ishant Sharma During RCB Vs DC Match | cricket news

    Veteran batsman Virat Kohli and bowler Ishant Sharma were involved in a friendly duel during the RCB vs DC clash at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday (May 12). Sharma had the last laugh after getting smashed by his old friend for a couple of big shots during the game. Both Delhi players share an old bond having played cricket for so many years together. Later on, Ishant Sharma delivered one of the most amiable send-offs in cricket history following his dismissal of Virat Kohli, disrupting RCB’s star-studded start in the fourth over of their innings. Ishant had faced a tough start himself after being hit for a boundary and a six off the first two deliveries of the fourth over.

    Watch the video here:

    Wholesome Kalesh b/w Virat Kohli and Ishant Sharma pic.twitter.com/VO1QFk3l5J Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) May 12, 2024

    Virat Kohli hit a six against Ishant, Virat poked Ishant.

    Ishant Sharma dismissed Virat, Ishant teased Virat.

    Two best mates from Delhi. pic.twitter.com/uGOWTmbbPS Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 12, 2024

    Earlier, Axar Patel-led Delhi Capitals (DC) won the toss and decided to bat against Faf du Plessis’ Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 62nd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday evening. .

    Axar Patel will be leading the Capitals after Rishabh Pant received a suspension due to slow-over rate in DC’s previous match. (IPL 2024: Why Rishabh Pant Is Not Playing DC Vs RCB Match?)

    Bengaluru are standing in seventh place on the standings with seven points after winning 5 of 12 matches in the tournament. They are coming into this match after sealing a 60-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 60 runs.

    The Delhi-based franchise is standing in fifth place on the IPL 2024 table with six points after winning six of 12 matches. They are coming into this match after beating Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 20 runs.

    The DC skipper Axar confirmed Kumar Kushagra will replace Rishabh Pant in the playing eleven. He further added that Rasikh Dar Salam has been included in the first eleven against the Bengaluru-based franchise.

    “Will bowl first. Bangalore’s wicket is always good. It’s a chasing ground. When we start well, we dominate the game. Rishabh was angry and had appealed as well against the suspension. He’s at the ground here, motivating the team. Kushagra comes “Rasikh Dhar is in,” Axar said.

    RCB skipper Du Plessis said they are playing good cricket and are confident in the dressing room. The Proteas cricketer also hoped that the wicket in Bengaluru would be a “good wicket”.

    “Little bit less grass than earlier games. Hopefully, it’s a good wicket. We look forward to every game now – we’re playing some good cricket. Have to start again. We have got more of that confidence in the dressing room. The Same team for us,” Du Plessis said.