IPL news

IPL 2024: Scratchy Rajasthan Royals end RCB’s sensational run with four-wicket win in Eliminator | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago06 mins

NEW DELHI: Rajasthan Royals managed to halt Royal Challengers Bengaluru‘s juggernaut in the Indian Premier League, securing a hard-fought four-wicket victory in the Eliminator in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.The RR bowlers produced an all-round effort, stopping RCB to 172 for 8. However, the their batters encountered difficulties during the middle overs in chase, allowing RCB to claw back in the match, which remained evenly poised for a significant portion of the second half. Despite the challenges, the inaugural IPL champions ultimately reached the target with an over to spare, finishing at 174 for 6, thanks to Rovman Powell’s composed unbeaten 16, which provided the necessary impetus in a tense conclusion. As he has done several times before this season, Riyan Parag (36 off 26) showcased deep resolve in an adverse situation to help Rajasthan stay alive in the tournament. It was Royals’ first win after four losses and an abandoned game.2008 winners Royals face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai on Friday for a place in the IPL final. The returning Shimron Hetmyer also played his part to perfection, scoring a crucial 26 off 14 balls.As It HappenedIn a contest wherein fortunes swung from one side to another, RR remained ahead with impactful performances throughout even though Mohammed Siraj (2/33) raised late hopes for RCB with wickets of Parag and Hetmyer in the 18th over,With 13 needed off last two overs, Powell found two fours off Lockie Ferguson to seal the deal in favour of his side.Earlier, it was Yashasvi Jaiswal (45 off 30) who gave them the impetus at the top.Off to an unconvincing start with his initial runs coming off the outside edge, Jaiswal grew in confidence when Yash Dayal fed him a few deliveries to capitalise on and the RR opener cracked four fours in the third over to break the shackles.At the other end, Tom Kohler-Cadmore (20) also hit a couple of fours against Siraj and while getting a lifeline from Glenn Maxwell, who spilled a sitter at deep square leg off Dayal.With RR’s acceleration rapidly shaving runs off the target, RCB needed a breakthrough and Lockie Ferguson provided the first success when he foxed Kohler-Cadmore with a slow yorker which crashed into the stumps.The gradual progression of Jaiswal’s innings saw the batter finding his rhythm, but the extreme heat sapped him out completely having faced a mere 29 balls.In between the ninth and the 10th over, Jaiswal received on-field treatment and got back up only to play a loose shot — an attempted ramp off Cameron Green but only gloved it to the ‘keeper.Soon after, Karn Sharma dealt a body blow by having Sanju Samson (17) stumped.With their tails up, RCB continued making inroads with Dhruv Jurel (8) being run out after a brilliant effort from Virat Kohli and Cameron Green. Kohli fired a sharp throw from deep midwicket to the non-striker’s end, where Jurel was found short of his crease.RR were firmly under pressure heading into the 15th over when they chose to go after Green, who had been all over them with three tidy overs and a wicket up until then.Hetmyer smacked the Australian for a six and Parag followed his partner in hitting another, while also finding a four to collect 17 runs.Earlier, Rajasthan Royals put forth a sharp bowling effort.Led by Trent Boult (4-0-16-1), who produced an opening spell of 3-0-6-1, RR bowlers kept taking wickets at crucial stages to control the game.The venerable Ravichandran Ashwin (4-0-19-2), having previously gone wicketless for a significant stretch, left an indelible mark with wickets Cameron Green (27) and Glenn Maxwell (0) on consecutive deliveries while Avesh Khan (3/44) also chipped in.Rajasthan’s bowling was adequately backed up by their fielders, particularly Rovman Powell, who took two stunning catches that clipped RCB’s progress.(With inputs from PTI)

After threat to Virat Kohli and RCB’s security, team cancelled practice and press conference ahead of IPL Eliminator: Report | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago02 mins

In a startling report by Bengali daily ‘Anandbazar Patrika’, Gujarat Police arrested four persons from the Ahmedabad airport on Monday night on suspicion of terror activities, which allegedly posed a threat to the security of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team and its star player Virat Kohli ahead of their IPL Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday. Once the RCB camp received the above information, they decided to cance their practice at the Gujarat College ground in Ahmedabad on Tuesday and also did not go ahead with the press conference on the eve of the match. Rajasthan Royals, however, went ahead with their training as scheduled but cancelled their press conference as well. The Gujarat College ground was the alternative practic venue for the two teams as the Narendra Modi Stadium hosted Qualifier 1 on Tuesday between Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad. KKR won that match to enter the final.The report also claims that the police found the four arrested men in possession of arms as well as suspicious videos and text messages at their hideout.Reportedly, security around the RCB team hotel has been beefed up and all entry and exit points for the players and team staff secured.

‘God has got a plan’: Virat Kohli sums up RCB’s rise from the ashes in IPL 2024 | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago03 mins

It won’t be wrong to call Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) the phoenix of IPL 2024, for the way they have literally risen from the ashes to script one of the most remarkable comebacks the league has ever seen. But there’s still unfinished business, which is why RCB icon Virat Kohli says “we gotta focus on the next one.” RCB qualified for the playoffs, finishing fourth on the points table after defeating five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their do-or-die match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru last Saturday.That was their sixth consecutive win on the trot, after losing seven of their first eight matches in this edition, which is what makes their run special and iconic. No other team has ever done that after a similar horror start to the season. IPL 2024: Results | Points Table Kohli, with 708 runs to be the league’s top run-getter, has been one of the inspirational figures behind this comeback; but the batting legend doesn’t want to delve much into it as the team has the all-important Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals coming up. The losing team in that match exits the tournament, while the winners go on to play Qualifier 2 for a place in the final. Qualifier 1 will be played between Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad, with the winner moving into the final and the losing team taking on the winners of the Eliminator. “God’s got a plan,” Kohli could be heard saying on a video clip on social media, as he walks towards the dressing room.WATCH VIDEO “So you just need to be honest with what you are doing. I think we were pretty honest with our hard work and we got the rewards. I don’t want to say anything more than this. We gotta focus on the next one,” the former RCB captain added. Kohli has been with RCB since the inception of the league, which makes it his 17th season with the franchise. However, they are yet to win the title and will hope that this inspirational comeback continues for three more matches to end their wait.

Rajasthan Royals finish third after rain plays spoilsport in their IPL game against KKR | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago03 mins

NEW DELHI: Rajasthan Royals faced the consequences of their lackluster performance in the business end of the tournament, settling for a third spot on the points table as their final IPL league match against table-toppers Kolkata Knight Riders was abandoned due to rain in Guwahati on Sunday. The unfortunate outcome meant both Royals and KKR shared a point each and Sunrisers Hyderabad pipping the former for a second spot on a better Net Run Rate. The Royals’ inability to secure a victory in their last game proved costly as they will now have to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Eliminator.As It HappenedWhile KKR finished the league engagements on 20 points with nine wins and two more solitary points courtesy wash-outs, SRH (17 points) pipped RR (17 points) despite both teams have equal points. SRH finished with NRR of 0.414 compared to RR’s 0.273.KKR will play Sunrisers Hyderabad in the first Qualifier in Ahmedabad on Tuesday followed by the ‘Eliminator’ between RR and RCB in the same venue.Rajasthan Royals would blame themselves for getting into a nice little rut after an incredible run during the first half of the tournament when they had won eight out of their nine games.But their campaign lost a bit of steam towards the back end as they lost four games on trot and with no Jos Buttler for crunch games, facing a marauding RCB in a winner-takes-all match could be a very tough proposition.On the other hand, SRH, a team that redefined power-hitting with optimum use of ‘Impact Sub’, had one of their best chases on Sunday, albeit on a track that once again resembled a highway in terms of its placid quotient. The chase of 215 against a depleted Punjab Kings with five balls to spare also bolstered their NRR just when it was needed.(With inputs from PTI)

Virat Kohli in a zone where no bowler can trouble him: Mohammad Kaif | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago04 mins

NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has heaped praise on Virat Kohli, stating that the Royal Challengers Bengaluru opener has reached a state of focus where no bowling match-up can disturb him. Kohli has been in exceptional form in IPL 2024, displaying his prowess and determination.RCB are set to face Chennai Super Kings in their final league game in Bengaluru on Saturday.The hosts need to secure a victory with a decent margin to surpass their opponents and clinch the final playoff berth based on net run rate.Speaking on Star Sports, Kaif likened Kohli’s current form and mindset to that of a monk in deep meditation, undisturbed by external distractions.”When a hermit goes to the Himalayas, he is in a different zone when he is meditating. Nothing distracts him. Whether there is a loud noise, someone shouts or cries, it doesn’t make a difference. Virat Kohli has reached that zone,” Kaif said.“He is not seeing the scorecard and is just in his zone and concentrating. He knows the intent with which he needs to play no matter which bowler, whether it’s a fast bowler or a spinner, is in front of him. No matter which bowler comes, he has reached a zone where there is no match-up,” the former India batter added. Kohli is the highest run-getter in IPL 2024, amassing 661 runs at a strike rate of 155.16 in 13 games. Kaif emphasized that Kohli is driven by a desire to lead RCB to victory.“He has come just to dominate. He has come with the passion that he will only be satisfied once he makes his team win, and that has been seen from the second match. In the first match against Chennai, he got out when he pulled a Fizz (Mustafizur Rahman) slower bouncer and (Ajinkya) Rahane took the catch,” he observed.“From the second match against Punjab, he came determined. He was jumping down the track and hitting (Kagiso) Rabada and playing slog sweeps against spinners. You talk about the fourth or fifth gear but he has reached the 15th gear. No one will reach that level,” the cricketer-turned-commentator added.As RCB prepare for their crucial match against CSK, Kohli’s form and focus will be pivotal in determining the team’s chances of making it to the playoffs.

MS Dhoni bowls in nets ahead of CSK vs RCB clash | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago03 mins

NEW DELHI: MS Dhoni’s presence on the cricket field never fails to captivate fans, regardless of the outcome of the match. The mere sight of Thala stepping out to bat, even if it’s for a single delivery, is enough to send the crowd into a frenzy of joy and excitement.Ahead of the highly anticipated and do-or-die clash between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a video surfaced on CSK’s social media handle, showcasing MS Dhoni bowling during the practice session.The footage captured the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman bowling during the team’s net session. Is he going to enthrall fans with his bowling skills against RCB on Saturday?“When he bowls, just ADORABOWL!,” CSK posted on their social media handle. CSK batting coach Michael Hussey is hoping that Dhoni would continue with the team for a couple of years more, saying the former skipper was still batting well.The 42-year-old Dhoni surprised everyone by stepping aside as captain of the team just a day before the start of the 2024 season. Ruturaj Gaikwad was handed the reins of the side.“We are hoping he does keep going. He is still batting so well. He does prepare well – he gets into the camp very early and hits a lot of balls. He has been in good touch all season really,” Hussey said on ESPN’s Around the Wicket show.“I guess we just got to try to manage him from the body side of things. He had a knee surgery after the last season. So, he has been managing that from the initial stage of the tournament.“I hope he keeps going for another couple of years. But we will just have to wait and see. He is the only one who will make that call. And, he likes to sort of build the drama a little bit as well. So, I wouldn’t expect a decision anytime soon.”Dhoni led CSK to record five IPL titles.

Watch: Gujarat Titans’ final home game of IPL 2024 washed out, team thanks fans | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago02 mins

NEW DELHI: Gujarat Titans’ final home game of IPL 2024 could not be played due to inclement weather which forced the abandonment of their match against the Kolkata Knight Riders at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Monday.IPL ORANGE CAP | IPL PURPLE CAP | IPL POINTS TABLEAs a result, Gujarat, who won the IPL in their debut season in 2022, were knocked out of the playoff race, confirming a top-two finish for table-toppers Kolkata, who remain the only side to have already qualified for the next stage.In a show of gratitude for their unwavering support through this season, the Captain of the Gujarat Titans, Shubman Gill and the entire squad completed a lap of honour to thank their fans.The official X handle of the Indian Premier League shared a heart-warming video of the lap. Gujarat have won five of their 13 games and are at the 8th spot in the points table with 11 points.Gujarat joined Mumbai Indians and bottom-placed Punjab Kings to be out of the title race.The last time Kolkata ended in the top two in the league stage, they went on to win the tournament in 2012 and 2014.

Sourav Ganguly removes his cap before shaking hands with Virat Kohli – WATCH | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago02 mins

NEW DELHI: Rajat Patidar’s aggressive half-century and exceptional bowling display propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their fifth consecutive victory, significantly bolstering their playoff aspirations with a commanding 47-run triumph over Delhi Capitals on Sunday.RCB posted a challenging total of 187-9, with Cameron Green’s unbeaten 32 off 24 balls playing a crucial role in their innings. In reply, RCB bowlers dismantled Delhi Capitals’ batting lineup, restricting them to 140 runs in 19.1 overs at their home ground, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.With this remarkable win, RCB have jumped to fifth place in the standings, igniting hope for a late charge towards playoff qualification. However, securing victory in their final league match and relying on other favorable outcomes will be crucial for their chances of breaking into the top four.Following the conclusion of the match, players and support staff from both teams exchanged handshakes as a customary sign of sportsmanship. When it was Sourav Ganguly‘s turn, the Director of Cricket for Delhi Capitals, to shake hands with Virat Kohli, the former Indian captain showed his respect by removing his cap, a gesture that resonated deeply with fans across social media platforms. Kohli is the leading run-getter in this season with 661 runs including one century and five half centuries.

‘When MS Dhoni comes to play…’: Rashid Khan after Gujarat Titans’ win over Chennai Super Kings | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago03 mins

NEW DELHI: Skipper Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan delivered exceptional centuries in a record-equaling opening partnership of over 200 runs, propelling the Gujarat Titans to a comfortable 35-run victory over the Chennai Super Kings in an IPL match on Friday. This win keeps Gujarat’s playoff hopes alive.Sudharsan scored 103 off 51 balls, hitting five fours and seven sixes, while Gill notched the season’s first century with a superb 104 off 55 balls, including six sixes.Together, they helped GT set an imposing total of 231 for 3 after being put into bat. The duo’s partnership of 210 runs for the first wicket matched the record set by Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul in 2022.In pursuit of the challenging target, CSK had a rocky start, but Daryl Mitchell (63 off 34) and Moeen Ali (56 off 36) shared a 109-run stand for the fourth wicket to keep the team in contention. However, the target proved too steep, and CSK were ultimately held to 196 for 8 in their 20 overs.“You love to watch those two (Gill and Sudharsan), really enjoyed the way they played, happy to be on the winning side though. Happy to get a couple of wickets, my body is feeling better. Had a back issue, it’s good and it’s better now, very soon I will be all fit,” Rashid said after the match.Despite a late surge from Mahendra Singh Dhoni with a quick 26 off 11 balls, it wasn’t enough to secure the win for the defending champions.Dhoni tonked a couple of one-handed maximums to enthrall the Ahmedabad crowd. Gujarat Titans spinner Rashid Khan, who claimed two wickets in his team’s win, was in awe of Dhoni and his fan following. “I have bowled against him (Dhoni), when he comes to play it’s a different feeling, it gives us a good energy, happy to play with him,” Rashid said.For Gujarat Titans, Mohit Sharma (3/31) stood out among the bowlers.

IPL 2024 creates new all-time record with milestone 1000 sixes in fewest balls | Cricket News

Danijones6 months ago03 mins

NEW DELHI: In the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL), a remarkable feat was achieved as players hit over 1000 sixes, marking the third occasion in the history of the tournament. The milestone 1000th six came up during the Sunrisers Hyderabad-Lucknow Super Giants IPL encounter in Hyderabad.This season saw 1000 sixes being scored in just 13079 balls, setting a new record for the fastest time to reach this milestone.The previous records were set in the 2023 and 2022 seasons, with 1124 and 1062 sixes respectively. In 2023, it took 15390 balls to hit 1000 sixes, while in 2022, the same number of sixes was reached in 16269 balls.Fewest balls to 1000 sixes in an IPL edition 13079 in IPL 2024 15390 in IPL 2023 16269 in IPL 2022 This year’s accomplishment highlights the aggressive batting style that has become a hallmark of the IPL, with players going for maximums more frequently than ever before. The reduction in the number of balls to reach 1000 sixes from the past two seasons indicates an increase in the scoring rate and a shift towards a more explosive form of cricket in the league.The IPL has consistently been a platform for high-scoring games, with teams and players pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the T20 format. The trend of hitting sixes has been on the rise, and the 2024 season has continued this trend, much to the delight of cricket fans who relish the excitement of big hits and high scores.This statistical milestone is a testament to the evolving nature of the game and the skills of the batsmen who participate in the IPL. It also reflects the competitive spirit of the league, where every ball is an opportunity for a big score. The IPL continues to set new benchmarks in the cricketing world, and the 2024 season has certainly lived up to its reputation as one of the most thrilling T20 leagues globally.