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Best Movies & Shows for all the Badminton Lovers

Best Movies & Shows for all the Badminton Lovers

By April 3, 2023 0

Exploring the world of competitive badminton can be an enriching experience, and movies and shows that revolve around the sport offer a unique perspective. By highlighting the triumphs and tribulations of badminton players, these productions provide a comprehensive view of the game and its enthusiasts. Such works are an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into the nuances of badminton and to gain a newfound appreciation for the dedication and skill that the sport demands. 

Badminton movies and shows can also inspire by showcasing the dedication, perseverance, and passion required to excel in this demanding sport. From the latest release of “Love All Play” (2022) to the recently aired “Racket Boys” (2021-present) to the classic film “Good Badminton” (1934), these productions offer viewers a unique insight into the world of badminton. They entertain, educate, and motivate, reminding audiences that success in sports often results from hard work, determination, and an unconditional love for the game. 

If you’re looking for a new way to indulge in your passion for the sport, why not check out some amazing movies and shows featuring badminton as a central theme? From heart-pumping sports dramas to heartwarming comedies, there’s something for everyone in the world of badminton cinema. 

So grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite armchair, and get ready to be swept away by the excitement and drama of these incredible films and series. Whether you’re a die-hard badminton fan or simply looking for something new to watch, you won’t want to miss out on these thrilling tales of triumph, defeat, and everything in between. 

Best Movies & Shows for all the Badminton Lovers 

Love All Play (Series, 2022) 

“Love All Play” is a sports romance drama about two passionate badminton players, a male and a female protagonist, who team up as a mixed doubles group with players from the badminton business team. The male protagonist, Park Tae-Yang, was once a promising badminton athlete but had to leave the sport due to an incident. Three years later, the female protagonist decides to join the Eunice badminton team, despite having left the sport after it once consumed her entire life. With her return to badminton, she seeks to reignite her passion for the sport and fulfill her dream of playing at the highest level once again. 

“Love All Play” follows the journey of Park Tae Joon, who grew up surrounded by badminton due to his parents’ badminton equipment business. Despite initially seeing the sport as a job, his passion for badminton is rekindled when he develops a desire to impress a woman. However, after being cut from the city hall team, he signs up with the Eunice badminton team. There, he meets Park Tae-Yang, and their shared love and dedication to the sport help them form a powerful mixed doubles partnership. The movie depicts the challenges they face as they navigate their personal and professional lives while competing in the world of badminton.

Available on Disney+hotstar

Racket Boys (Series, 2021–present ) 

“Racket Boys” is a heartwarming story of a city boy who is uprooted from his urban life and brought to the countryside when his father is tasked with reviving a failing middle school badminton team. The show follows the journey of this ragtag group of boys as they strive to become better badminton players and people. Set in Haenam, the show offers a glimpse into the lives of these young athletes as they overcome obstacles and grow through the sport of badminton. Through their struggles and triumphs, the boys learn important life lessons about teamwork, friendship, and perseverance. “Racket Boys” is a touching and uplifting story that showcases the transformative power of sports in the lives of young people. 

Yoon Hyun Jong, a former badminton player who is struggling to make ends meet for his family, seizes the opportunity to coach a middle school team. However, upon arriving, he discovers that the team is on the brink of disbandment, with only three players: Bang Yoon Dam, Na Woo Chan, and Lee Yong Tae. Despite the challenges, the trio continues to push forward, determined to improve their game. With the addition of Yoon Hae Kang, Yoon Hyun Jong’s son, and Jung In Sol, they finally have enough players to participate in competitions. Together, the team strives to reach new heights and overcome the odds on and off the court. “Racket Boys” is a story of perseverance, friendship, and growth as these young athletes discover their true potential through the sport of badminton. 

In “Racket Boys,” Yoon Hyun Jong’s wife, Ra Young Ja, is the coach of the girls’ badminton team at a middle school in Haenam. As a former top badminton player herself, Young Ja brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team. Her players include Han Se Yoon, the #1 ranked junior female player in Korea, and Lee Han Sol, Se Yoon’s best friend. Together, they form a formidable team, consistently outshining their peers with their skills and teamwork. Through their journey, they learn valuable lessons about sportsmanship, hard work, and dedication while also developing strong bonds of friendship and camaraderie. 

Available on Netflix

Salaryman’s Club (Series, 2022) 

Salaryaman’s Club is a series that was released in 2022. The series follows Mikoto Shiratori, who is a prodigious badminton player with extraordinary foresight ability. Unfortunately, he lost a match for his company’s sports badminton team while working at Mitsuhoshi Banking, which ultimately led to his termination. Despite this setback, Mikoto was offered a new opportunity to play for Sunlight Beverage’s badminton team. 

However, Mikoto had made a vow to himself that he would never again play on a doubles team following a traumatic incident during his inter-high match in high school. Despite his reluctance, his co-worker Tatsuru Miyazumi encouraged him to overcome his past trauma and become his doubles partner. 

With his foresight ability and Tatsuru’s support, Mikoto must navigate the challenges of working in a doubles team and face the struggles that come with it. It won’t be an easy journey, but with his determination and Tatsuru’s guidance, Mikoto may be able to conquer his past and reach new heights in his badminton career. 

Available on Crunchyroll

Good Badminton (Movie, 1934)

This short offers a unique and engaging perspective on the historical background of the emerging sports fad, badminton. What sets it apart is its ability to seamlessly integrate humor into the narrative, making it appealing to audiences with or without a particular interest in the game. 

This engaging and amusing presentation offers valuable perspectives on badminton’s genesis, development, and cultural significance as a sport. It sheds light on the significant figures and occurrences that have molded the game and impacted its widespread appeal throughout history. 

Regardless of whether you’re a passionate badminton enthusiast or intrigued by the evolution of sports, this topic guarantees an enjoyable and informative read that will leave you with a fresh admiration for this cherished sport. 

Available on N/A

Full Strike (Movie, 2015) 

The plot of Full Strike tracks the progress of a young female athlete as she aspires to become a badminton champion, but with an unusual twist. She receives assistance from a band of rehabilitated criminals who have reformed their ways and are now utilizing their abilities to aid others. 

Despite encountering numerous hurdles and setbacks, the protagonist remains resolute in her pursuit of success, and her drive intensifies as she receives coaching and encouragement from her unanticipated role models. Under their tutelage, she not only hones her badminton skills but also develops an appreciation for the value of persistence, collaboration, and opportunities for redemption. 

Having transformed their lives after a stint on the wrong side of the law, the group of reformed criminals has discovered a fresh calling in guiding the young woman toward realizing her aspirations. By pooling their resources and expertise, they demonstrate that anyone can surmount their past and attain remarkable heights with the correct attitude and a supportive network. 

While the young woman advances through her training and competitions, she recognizes that her path toward becoming a champion involves far more than simply triumphing in matches. It’s a voyage of self-exploration, self-improvement, and the might of camaraderie and encouragement. Collectively, they acquire valuable insights that go beyond the confines of the badminton world and empower them to become better individuals.

Available on Amazon Prime Video 

Categories: Sports360
Breaking: Chelsea sack Graham Potter after six months in charge

Breaking: Chelsea sack Graham Potter after six months in charge

By April 3, 2023 0

After dropping to the lower half of the table in Premier League, Chelsea authorities have decided to sack their manager Graham Potter with immediate effect. Bruno Saltor will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach.

Announcing the news on Chelsea’s official website, co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said, ‘On behalf of everyone at the club, we want to thank Graham sincerely for his contribution to Chelsea. We have the highest degree of respect for Graham as a coach and as a person. He has always conducted himself with professionalism and integrity, and we are all disappointed in this outcome.”

They further added, “Along with our incredible fans, we will all be getting behind Bruno and the team as we focus on the rest of the season. We have 10 Premier League games remaining and a Champions League quarter-final ahead. We will put every effort and commitment into every one of those games so that we can end the season on a high.”

Graham Potter leaves with the second-worst record of any Chelsea manager in the Premier League era (40% win percentage overall, barely 30% in the league). This weekend’s 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa at home, the final straw, was his 8th defeat in 22 Premier League games. At one point, Chelsea had gone without a win in six straight (longest in a decade) and an absolutely futile sequence from November to March saw the Blues win just twice from fifteen games — Chelsea’s worst run for three decades. Potter did eventually arrest the slide, but that turned out to be just a temporary reprieve. He could not find the solutions needed.

With Potter’s exit, there are few names that are expected to take charge of the London-based club. Former Bayern Munich manager Julian Naggelsmann is the favorite to succeed Graham Potter at Chelsea. Former Tottenham Hotspur and Paris St. Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino is also being linked with the high-profile job.

Categories: Trending News
BCCI announces Herbalife as its official partner for IPL 2023

Herbalife comes on board as the official partner for TATA IPL 2023

By March 30, 2023 0

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced Herbalife as its official partner for the upcoming season of the TATA IPL 2023. The partnership between IPL and Herbalife unites two powerful brands with a shared passion for sports.

Announcing the partnership, Jay Shah, Secretary, BCCI, said, “We are pleased to welcome Herbalife on board as an Official Partner for the 2023 edition of the TATA IPL. The IPL today is a benchmark among the most successful sporting leagues in the world and we are glad to partner with a trusted global brand like Herbalife, which is renowned for its science-based sports nutrition products. Their deep understanding of the nutritional needs of athletes makes the brand a perfect fit with the IPL.”

Arun Singh Dhumal, IPL Chairman, said- “Every sports person and athlete knows the importance of science-backed nutrition and the impact it has on performance, we are excited to welcome on board Herbalife as an Official Partner for IPL 2023. We believe this association will offer an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of wellbeing and nutrition on and off the field and have an impact at the various levels of cricket as well”.

“At Herbalife, our decades of experience in science-based nutrition, health & wellness solutions have helped athletes in their journey to glory. Nutrition and diet are the most important factor in an athlete’s career as it helps them in building the right physique for their game. Herbalife will be a one-stop for all their nutritional needs. From breakfast to post work out meals.” added Ajay Khanna, Senior Vice President, and Managing Director at Herbalife India.

The TATA IPL 2023 is scheduled to commence on March 31, with the first match being played between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Categories: Trending News
Revisiting the best matches from IPL over the years

Revisiting the best matches from IPL over the years

By March 29, 2023 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been one of the most exciting and entertaining T20 cricket leagues in the world since its inception in 2008. Over the years, the tournament has produced some of the most memorable matches in cricketing history, where fans witnessed nail-biting finishes, outstanding individual performances, and incredible comebacks. As the IPL continues to gain popularity around the globe, it is worth revisiting some of the best matches that have made the league what it is today. 

The IPL has grown into a massive sporting event that attracts a global audience and some of the best cricketers from around the world. The tournament has not only provided a platform for domestic Indian players to showcase their talent, but it has also given international players a chance to compete at the highest level and hone their skills. 

As the IPL enters its 15th season, fans eagerly await another action-packed season with high expectations for more unforgettable moments. However, it’s always a good idea to look back and remember some of the greatest moments in IPL history. From the first-ever match in 2008 to the 2020 final, the league has produced several games that have captured the imagination of fans across the world. 

Whether it’s the Royal Challengers Bangalore’s nail-biting victory against the Rajasthan Royals in 2014 or the Mumbai Indians’ remarkable turnaround in the 2019 final against the Chennai Super Kings, the IPL has provided cricket fans with some truly remarkable moments that will be etched in their memories forever. 

In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most thrilling IPL matches that have left an indelible mark on the hearts of cricket enthusiasts. 

Revisiting the best IPL matches over the years.

KKR vs RCB – KKR won by 140 Runs (2008) 

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced off against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the 1st season of the IPL on April 18, 2008, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. KKR won the toss and elected to bat first, putting up a massive total of 222 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Brendon McCullum played a breathtaking knock of 158* off just 73 balls, which included 13 fours and 10 sixes. 

IPL: The first ever happenings of Kolkata Knight Riders in the league

Creator: Hindustan Times | Credit: Hindustan Times via Getty Images Copyright: 2012 Hindustan Times

In response, the RCB side was bundled out for just 82 runs in 15.1 overs, handing KKR a massive victory by 140 runs, which is still the biggest win in IPL history in terms of runs. Ashok Dinda was the pick of the KKR bowlers, taking 4 wickets for just 18 runs in his 3.1 overs. 

The KKR vs RCB match in 2008 was a historic game that set the tone for the inaugural season of the IPL. Brendon McCullum’s innings was a masterclass in power hitting, and it was the first time that fans witnessed the true potential of T20 cricket. The game also highlighted the importance of team strategy and individual performances’ impact on a match’s outcome. The victory was a significant boost for KKR and set the foundation for their success in the years to come.

KXIP vs CSK, Super Kings won by 6 wickets (2010) 

Mahendra Singh Dhoni had cemented his status as a crucial player in T20 cricket by 2010, earning the moniker “finisher” for his ability to close out games. A match in Dharamshala during that season only served to reinforce this label, as it was a must-win game for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to advance to the semi-finals of the IPL. The Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) had set a formidable target of 192/3, and it was up to CSK’s batsmen to chase it down. Dhoni led the way with a masterful display of finishing skills, helping CSK secure a crucial victory and a spot in the semi-finals. 

5 Unknown facts about MS Dhoni's IPL career

Creator: SESHADRI SUKUMAR | Credit: AFP via Getty Images Copyright: 2012 AFP

Despite a challenging target set by Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) struggled early on in their innings, with a score of 27/2 after 4 overs. The odds seemed to be against the CSK side, and victory appeared to be slipping away. However, the match went down to the wire, with CSK needing 16 runs off the final over, which was to be bowled by Irfan Pathan. Despite the pressure, MS Dhoni, with his finishing skills, only needed four deliveries to secure the win, making it one of the most exciting matches in IPL history. 

MI vs KKR, MI won by 5 wickets (2011) 

The 70th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2011, featuring Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders, is often regarded as one of the most memorable games in the tournament’s history. Kolkata Knight Riders batted first and set a challenging target of 175 runs in their allotted 20 overs, albeit losing 7 wickets in the process. However, Mumbai Indians put up a valiant effort and successfully chased down the target with 5 wickets in hand, clinching the victory in the final over of the match. 

Durham to 'speak privately' to head coach James Franklin over Yuzvendra Chahal physical-harassment allegations | Cricket | ESPNcricinfo.com

Creator: Hindustan Times | Credit: Hindustan Times via Getty Images Copyright: 2012 Hindustan Times

During the game’s closing stages, many believed that Mumbai Indians would not be able to pull off a win, as they needed to score 40 runs in just 2.3 overs. However, James Franklin took charge of the situation and led the team’s charge toward victory. In an incredible batting display, he hit four consecutive boundaries off Lakshmipathy Balaji in the final over, propelling Mumbai Indians to a memorable triumph. This stunning performance by Franklin turned the tide of the match and left the spectators in awe. 

The game was filled with thrilling moments, including some outstanding performances from players on both teams. The match left a lasting impression on cricket fans and pundits alike, showcasing the excitement and competitiveness that the IPL is known for. 

MI vs RR, Mumbai won by 5 wickets (2014) 

The Wankhede Stadium witnessed another nail-biting encounter involving Mumbai Indians (MI) in their backyard. MI and Rajasthan Royals were both in need of a victory to secure a place in the playoffs. However, MI was under added pressure as they needed to win by a significant margin.

Following the norm of the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Indians won the toss and opted to chase the opposition’s score. Despite a valiant effort from the Rajasthan Royals, including fantastic half-centuries from Sanju Samson (74 off 47) and Karun Nair (50 off 27), they set a daunting target of 189-4 for MI to chase down. The task appeared even more challenging for Rohit Sharma’s team, as they had to achieve the target in just 14.3 overs to advance in the tournament. 

Pepsi IPL - 2nd Qualifying Match RR v MI | SPORTZPICS Photography

Creator: Ron Gaunt-IPL-SPORTZPICS Copyright: http://www.sportzpics.co.za/image/I0000SoRagM2cIEc

After the early dismissals of their star players Keiron Pollard and captain Rohit Sharma within the first 10 overs, Mumbai Indians appeared to be on the brink of an early exit. However, MI found a new hero in the form of New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson, who played brilliant innings of 95 runs off just 44 balls. Anderson’s explosive knock included nine sixes and six boundaries, and it turned the game on its head. 

The atmosphere was electric as the match between two fierce rivals unfolded. The tension heightened when Rayudu was run out on the third ball of the 15th over, leaving many of the home team’s supporters feeling disheartened about their chances of winning. However, after a lengthy discussion between the umpires both on and off the field, they decided that a boundary could still improve the home team’s net run rate (NRR) enough to secure their qualification. 

As the game continued, the excitement in the stadium grew with each passing moment. The crowd erupted as James Faulkner charged in to deliver a waist-high full toss on the leg stump to Aditya Tare. The batsman did not disappoint as he sent the ball sailing over the boundary ropes, much to the delight of the home fans. It was a truly unforgettable night for the supporters as their team emerged victorious in a jittery match. 

RCB vs PWI, RCB won by 130 runs (2013) 

One cannot create a list of the greatest matches in IPL history without mentioning the thrilling encounter that took place on April 23, 2013. Representing RCB, the left-handed batsman Chris Gayle performed remarkably by decimating the bowling attack of Pune Warriors, amassing a colossal score of 175* in just 66 balls. 

I went bizarre and it actually paid off: Chris Gayle - Rediff Cricket

Creator: Ron Gaunt-IPL-SPORTZPICS Copyright: http://www.sportzpics.co.za/image/I0000SoRagM2cIEc

Chris Gayle’s knock in the match against PWI is widely regarded as one of the greatest individual performances in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Gayle’s destructive knock, which was played against the Pune Warriors, included 13 fours and 17 sixes, which helped RCB to post an imposing total of 263 runs for the loss of just five wickets. During his innings, Gayle broke several records, including the record for the highest individual score in a T20 match, surpassing the previous best of 158* by Brendon McCullum. He also became the first batsman to score a century in the IPL that year. 

Gayle’s innings was characterized by his explosive hitting and his ability to take the attack to the opposition bowlers from the outset. The southpaw dominated the Pune Warriors bowlers right from the start and never allowed them to settle into any kind of rhythm. His batting display was not just limited to raw power hitting but also included some deft touches and smart placement of the ball to find gaps in the field.

The match was one-sided, as RCB went on to win by a massive margin of 130 runs, which remains one of the largest victories in the history of the IPL. Chris Gayle’s innings in this match will always be remembered as one of the most explosive and thrilling displays of power-hitting ever seen in T20 cricket. 

RCB vs CSK, Super Kings won by 5 wickets (2018) 

Fans of both teams eagerly anticipate the fierce rivalry that has grown between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) over the years. However, due to a ban imposed on CSK in 2016 and 2017, the rivalry was suspended for two years. 

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were eyeing a strong comeback in the 2018 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), and their potential was justified in the high-scoring match at the Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru. The South African duo of Quinton de Kock (53 off 37) and AB de Villiers (68 off 30) put up an impressive performance, helping Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) post a competitive score of 205-8. However, given the small ground and lightning-fast outfield, the total was not necessarily winning. 

When RCB rejected to pick MS Dhoni for a strange reason in 2008 IPL Auction - CricEarth

Creator: MANJUNATH KIRAN | Credit: AFP via Getty Images Copyright: 2012 AFP

After losing early wickets, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) found themselves in a difficult position at 74-4 in the 10th over. However, their fans remained hopeful, knowing that as long as their captain was in the wings, the match was far from over. The composed and level-headed MS Dhoni came to partner with the in-form Ambati Rayudu. The duo executed a perfectly calculated chase, with Rayudu scoring a brilliant 82 off 53 balls. The skipper, with the assistance of Rayudu, took the game deep and eventually secured victory with just 2 balls to spare. 

MS Dhoni’s unbeaten 70 off 34 balls in the match once again demonstrated his exceptional ability to finish games, cementing his status as one of the best in the business. With this stunning display, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) proved that they were well and truly back in the league. 

MI vs PBKS, MATCH TIED (KINGS XI PUNJAB WON ON THE SECOND SUPER OVER) (2020) 

October 18, 2020, will be remembered as a historic day in the Indian Premier League, as not one, not two, but three Super Overs were played, giving cricket fans an unforgettable experience. The first Super Over between Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad was a nail-biting affair, resulting in Kolkata Knight Riders emerging victorious. The excitement didn’t end there, as a second thrilling match ensued a few hours later – a double Super Over. 

Punjab end campaign with 50-run win over Mumbai | Photo Gallery

Creator: Jacques Rossouw-IPL-SPORTZPICS Copyright: http://www.sportzpics.co.za/image/I0000SoRagM2cIEc

The first Super Over between Kings XI Punjab and Mumbai Indians ended in a tie, leading to a second Super Over, where Chris Gayle and Mayank Agarwal’s heroics helped their team secure a thrilling victory. This unforgettable day in IPL history provided fans with an abundance of entertainment, with each match being filled with unpredictability and excitement.

The cricket match between MI and PBKS at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium turned out to be one of the most thrilling encounters in the history of the Indian Premier League. This match marked the first instance in IPL history when a game went into two Super Overs. 

Winning the toss, Mumbai Indians elected to bat first, but they found it difficult to build momentum, as they could only post a total of 176 runs, losing six wickets in the allotted 20 overs. Kieron Pollard was the top-scorer for MI, contributing 34 runs off just 12 deliveries. However, Mohammed Shami stood out with the ball for PBKS, finishing with impressive figures of 2 wickets for 30 runs in his four overs. 

PBKS faced a challenging situation as they were struggling at 87/3 after 11 overs in their chase, but an outstanding inning of 77 runs off 59 balls from their captain KL Rahul revived their hopes of winning the match. However, despite their valiant efforts, PBKS required two runs to clinch the game off the last ball but could only score a single run, leading to the first Super Over of the match. 

During the first Super Over, Mumbai Indians put up a modest total of 5 runs, courtesy of Mohammad Shami’s brilliant bowling. In reply, Kings XI Punjab also managed to score 5 runs, resulting in the match going into the second Super Over. In the second Super Over, Mumbai Indians posted a total of 11 runs which the Punjab Kings successfully chased.

Wow. Such amazing matches have been played in the IPL over the course of 15 years. Will we get to see another iconic match in this edition? Comment down your answers and let us know your favorite IPL match.

Categories: Sports360, Uncategorized
Everything you need to know about IPL 2023

IPL 2023 Schedule: Timetable, Venues, Matches, Teams and Live Telecast in India

By March 29, 2023 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most exciting and popular Twenty20 cricket tournaments in the world. First held in 2008, the IPL features ten franchise teams representing different Indian cities, each composed of some of the world’s best cricketers. Over the years, the league has grown in popularity and prestige, attracting top international players and millions of fans from around the globe.

With its fast-paced gameplay, dramatic finishes, and star-studded lineups, the IPL has become a major cultural phenomenon in India and beyond. From the opening ceremony to the final match, the league offers a thrilling spectacle that showcases the best of cricket and captures the imagination of fans of all ages and backgrounds.

The 16th edition of the Indian Premier League is just a few days away. Again, the entirety of the nation will be glued to their TV sets, witnessing some nerve-wracking cricket. So, fasten your seat belts and get ready for two months of thrilling action.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the schedule, venue, teams, and where to watch the biggest extravaganza in T20 cricket.

Is the IPL 2023 schedule announced?

Yes, the schedule for IPL 2023 was announced long back. According to the IPL Schedule 2023, a total of 74 league matches are going to be played. The opening match will be played on 31st March, with the last group match on 21st May.

The dates for the knockout matches, i.e., Qualifier 1, Qualifier 2, Eliminator, and Final, are not yet declared.

Schedule of IPL 2023

How many teams will be participating in IPL 2023?

In total, there will be 10 teams participating in the 16th edition of the Indian Premier League. The teams will be Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Lucknow Super Giants, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Punjab Kings.

How many venues will be there for IPL 2023?

The IPL 2023 will be played across 12 venues, namely

  • Ahmedabad (Narendra Modi Stadium)
  • Mohali (Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium)
  • Lucknow (Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium)
  • Hyderabad (Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium)
  • Bengaluru (M Chinnaswamy Stadium)
  • Chennai (MA Chidambaram Stadium)
  • Delhi (Arun Jaitley Stadium)
  • Guwahati (Barsapara Cricket Stadium)
  • Kolkata (Eden Gardens)
  • Mumbai (Wankhede Stadium)
  • Jaipur (Sawai Mansingh Stadium)
  • Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium)

Where will the IPL 2023 be telecasted in India?

While Star Sports has renewed its contract, Viacom 18 grabbed the rights to live stream the matches in India by paying a total of INR 20,500 crore to BCCI. IPL broadcasting rights for the 2023 to 2027 season were sold for Rs 48,390 crore ($6.2 billion) by the BCCI.

In layman’s terms, if you have a cable TV connection, the IPL 2023 be available on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, and Star Sports 1 Hindi HD.

Additionally, the digital rights are available with Jio. So you can watch the IPL 2023 on Jio Cinema app at zero additional cost.

When is the first match of IPL 2023?

The first match of IPL 2023 will happen on 31st March between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The match will commence at 7:30 PM IST.

Categories: Sports360
The Top 9 Tennis Strings available in 2023

The Top 9 Tennis Strings available in 2023

By March 29, 2023 0

Tennis strings can be a concern shared by professional tennis players such as Rafael Nadal and Serena William, as well as everyday players. If you are looking for the best tennis strings, you have come to the right place. This guide will provide all the information you need. 

It can be difficult to choose the right strings for your racket, regardless of your skill level. Whether you are an experienced player or a beginner, the strings you use will make a big difference in your game. Don’t worry, though! We are here to provide guidance and advice to help you make an informed decision. 

In this article, we will cover all the information you need to select the perfect string for your racket. We will discuss the features of different types of strings, their technical details, and more. Additionally, we have reviewed some of the top tennis strings to help make your decision simpler. Let’s get started! 

How To Choose a Tennis String 

To ensure that this guide is comprehensive and covers a variety of skill levels, we went through an extensive process of researching, playtesting, and reviewing a wide range of strings. We have included different categories and brands to meet everyone’s needs and preferences. 

When selecting strings for this guide, we considered key factors essential for string performance, such as power, spin, control, comfort, and durability. Our reviews provide honest assessments of each product, including pros and cons, so you can be aware of what you’re getting. We have outlined strings for all kinds of players, with specifications included, to help make your selection based on your game style, skill level, and physical capabilities. 

The Top 9 Tennis Strings in 2023 

Our team has undergone a rigorous playtesting and selection process to determine the best tennis strings for all categories. From beginners to professionals, we have put together a guide to help you make a well-informed decision. There are many great strings on the market, but some clearly stand out from the rest. We’re here to help you make the smartest choice for yourself. 

Babolat VS Touch 

After careful consideration, we chose Babolat VS Touch as the best overall tennis string. It features natural gut material and offers excellent power, feels, and control that you can sense with every stroke. Undoubtedly, this is one of the top strings on the market. 

Touch VS 12M

Credit: Babolat

The unique qualities of Babolat VS Touch strings make them incredibly comfortable for your arm, even if you choose to increase the tension levels. The only downside is that they may not be as effective when it comes to spin for more advanced players. Nonetheless, these strings are a great choice for all types of players. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Natural gut 
  • Gauge: 15 L,16 L 
  • Length: 39.3 ft / 12 m 
  • Shape: Round

Pros 

  • Incredible feel 
  • Very comfortable 
  • High level of control 
  • Don’t lose features in higher tension 

Cons 

  • Doesn’t generate heavy spin 
  • Expensive price 

Tecnifibre X-One Biphase 

If power is what you’re after, Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings are a great choice. During our playtest, we noted their impressive power that can easily be tapped into. Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings are constructed from a combination of different materials and have been designed to provide optimal levels of both control and power. 

Credit: Tecnifibre

The special construction creates a unique balance between comfort and performance, making them an excellent option for all players. Additionally, Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings are highly durable and resilient, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them too often. 

Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings can reduce shock and vibration, making them incredibly comfortable for the arm. The feel these strings deliver is great, especially at the net and in other areas of the court. As anticipated, they are not very spin-friendly. 

We noticed that these strings don’t offer much control, which is typical for strings with such a high power level. It can be difficult to control and accurately place the ball when playing. Fortunately, players can adjust and tweak the strings to find a better balance between power and control. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Multifilament 
  • Gauge: 16L, 17L, 18L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2 m 
  • Shape: Round 

Pros 

  • High level of power 
  • Excellent feel 
  • Absorb shock and vibrations 
  • Comfortable for the arm 

Cons 

  • Low control 
  • Not too much spin 

Wilson Synthetic Gut Power Tennis String

If you are looking for a great product at an affordable price, then Wilson Synthetic Gut Power tennis strings should be your go-to choice. These strings offer excellent performance for a wide range of players, from beginners to intermediates. 

Credit: Wilson

Wilson Synthetic Gut Power strings stood out during our playtest for their impressive power output. They maintain tension well, have great longevity, and are very affordable. Spin isn’t their strong suit, but they still provide satisfactory results. The Wilson strings provide a crisp and comfortable feel, making the racket feel like an extension of your hand. Additionally, they are known for their ability to reduce shock and absorb vibration, giving you a comfortable experience with every shot. 

Wilson Synthetic Gut Power strings are highly versatile, making them a great choice for a variety of skill levels. They provide excellent power and control for such an affordable price and have great durability with little maintenance required. The feel and comfort these strings offer to make them a great option for players of all levels. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Nylon 
  • Gauge: 16L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2 m 
  • Shape: Round 

Pros 

  • Good performance 
  • High power 
  • Comfortable for the arm 
  • Nice crispy feel 
  • Durable 

Cons 

  • Couldn’t find any 

Babolat RPM Blast 

If you are looking for strings that can deliver a heavy spin, the Babolat RPM Blast strings may be a perfect choice. These polyester strings generate a powerful topspin, making them a great choice, especially for forehand and backhand slices. During our playtest, Babolat RPM Blast strings were a clear favorite. 

RPM Blast 12M

Credit: Babolat

Not only do Babolat RPM Blast strings provide excellent spin, but they also give you great control over your shots. These strings make it easy to direct the ball as desired on the court, making them a great confidence booster. Plus, they are highly durable and won’t need to be replaced often. The main downside of Babolat RPM Blast strings is their lack of power, making them unsuitable for beginners or players who cannot generate a lot of power. But they are perfect for higher-level players who prioritize spin and control. 

Babolat RPM Blast strings are constructed from polyester and have been designed to provide maximum spin with ultimate control. Thanks to their durability and resilience, they can last longer and will not require frequent replacements. They are a great choice for intermediate to advanced-level players who are looking for strings that prioritize spin over power. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Polyester 
  • Gauge: 16L 
  • Length: 39.3 ft / 12 m 
  • Shape: Octagonal 

Pros 

  • Heavy spin 
  • Control 
  • The precision of the shots 
  • Durable 

Cons 

  • Low level of power 

Solinco Hyper-G 

Solinco Hyper-G strings are a great choice for players who are looking for superior control. With these strings, you can accurately direct the ball to where you want, even with fast and deep swings. Solinco Hyper-G strings provide amazing spin with great performance, particularly at the back of the court. Additionally, they offer a surprisingly crisp feel considering they are constructed from polyester. Solinco Hyper-G strings offer low power, making them a better option for intermediate to advanced players. It is important to note that these strings may lack comfort and not be suitable for recreational or injured players. 

Credit: Solinco Sports

Solinco Hyper-G strings have been designed to provide superior control and spin. The polyester material offers a crisp feel but there is also a noticeable lack of power. These strings are best suited for intermediate to advanced players who prioritize control and spin over power and comfort. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Polyester 
  • Gauge: 16 L, 17L 
  • Length: 39.6 ft / 12.1 m 
  • Shape: Square 

Pros 

  • High level of control 
  • Heavy topspin 
  • Nice feel 
  • Great performance 
  • Speed 

Cons

  • Lack of power 
  • Uncomfortable for the arm 

Solinco Hyper-G Heaven 

We featured Solinco Hyper G– Heaven twice in this list, and many players from all around the world rate them as the most popular strings. These strings are renowned for their superior control and spin, making them a favorite for intermediate to advanced players. 

Credit: Solinco Sports

Solinco Hyper- G Heaven has built an impressive following, making them highly sought after and one of the best-selling strings. The feedback from customers confirms their superior quality and performance. These strings are specifically suited for intermediate to advanced players looking for ultimate control, which is essential for those who play aggressively and have the physical strength to do so. 

Solinco Hyper- G Heaven strings have excellent power and snap back into place quickly after each shot, giving you more speed. The strings’ heavy spin and great feel are truly remarkable, which is why we featured them twice in this guide. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Polyester 
  • Gauge: 16 L, 17L 
  • Length: 39.6 ft / 12.1 m 
  • Shape: Square 

Pros 

  • High level of control 
  • Heavy topspin 
  • Nice feel 
  • Great performance 
  • Speed 

Cons 

  • Lack of power 
  • Uncomfortable for the arm 

Tecnifibre X-One Biphase 

We’ve featured Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings twice in our list due to their incredible comfort level. These are the most arm-friendly strings on the market, making them a great choice for those suffering from elbow pain or injury. Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings are constructed from a combination of different materials for optimal levels of control and power. These strings provide excellent comfort, durability, and resilience, making them a great choice for players at all levels. 

Credit: Tecnifibre

The combination of power and control makes them an ideal option for those dealing with elbow pain or injury. The thousands of fibers from the multifilament material do an incredible job of absorbing shock and reducing impact for every shot. Despite this, the strings still provide lots of lively responses. The Tecnifibre strings offer a crisp feel and high power with minimal effort, so you won’t have to use a lot of energy when hitting the ball.

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Multifilament 
  • Gauge: 16L, 17L, 18L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2 m 
  • Shape: Round 

Pros 

  • High level of powers 
  • Excellent feel 
  • Absorb shock and vibrations 
  • Comfortable for the arm 

Cons 

  • Low control 
  • Not too much spin 

Luxilon ALU Power 

Luxilon ALU Power tennis strings are well-known among experienced players, so much so that even professionals and advanced players use them. That’s how good they are! The Luxilon strings offer an impressive performance when put to the test. We especially noted the excellent control they provide, which is a major advantage. With these tennis strings, the ball can be directed with accuracy and yet still maintain a great feel. The full force of swings can still be enjoyed without compromising control. 

Credit: Luxilon

The strings also offer a high level of spin and speed, making them perfect for intermediate and advanced players. They are also incredibly resilient and designed to maintain tension over long periods. The only downside these strings have is the low level of power. We recommend the Luxilon ALU Power as the best tennis strings for intermediate players, due to their enhanced features, in terms of spin, speed, control, and durability. 

These strings are designed to deliver a high level of spin, speed, and control for intermediate players who want more precision and accuracy in their game. They are also incredibly durable and can maintain tension for long periods. The only downside of these strings is their lack of power, which might make them less desirable for advanced players who need more power in their shots. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Synthetic 
  • Gauge: 16L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2 m 
  • Shape: Pentagon 

Pros 

  • Great level of control 
  • Nice feel 
  • Full powerful swings 
  • Heavy spin and speed 
  • Durable

Cons 

  • Low powered 

Prince Premier Touch Tennis String 

The Prince Premier Touch tennis strings are designed to be highly durable and can maintain tension over long periods. When you eventually decide to change the strings, it won’t be because they have been broken or heavily damaged. The Prince Premier Touch tennis strings offer decent performance without excelling in any particular category.

Prince Premier Touch 16/1.30 String

However, due to their low price, they are a great and affordable choice for recreational-level players who hit the court sporadically but need long-lasting strings. The playtest showed that these strings were not great for control or feeling, but this is not a major concern for recreational players who don’t need these features while playing. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Multifilaments 
  • Gauge: 16L, 17L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2m 
  • Shape: Cube cross 

Pros 

  • Very durable 
  • Overall good performance 
  • Great price 
  • Maintain tension 

Cons 

  • Lack of control 
  • Feel 

Conclusion: Our Pick for the Best Tennis String 

Among the many great options available, we believe Babolat VS Touch strings stand out as the best overall. Made with a natural gut, these strings offer superior levels of power, feel, and performance, all while providing comfort. 

Another widely favored choice was the Solinco Hyper-G strings, making them twice in our list as the best option for control and popularity. These strings are well-suited for high intermediate and advanced players who can benefit from their high control, spin, and speed levels.

Categories: Gods Advice
IPL 2023: Rating all the 10 teams based on their squads

IPL 2023: Rating all the 10 teams based on their squads

By March 28, 2023 0

Teams went all out during the IPL 2023 auction to assemble a competitive lineup to strive for the best results in the tournament. Some teams succeeded, and some fell short of their targets in this auction. During the IPL 2023 auction, teams were able to acquire 87 players in total, with 80 of them being taken up by franchises and the remaining seven being left unclaimed. Sam Curran, Cameron Green, and Ben Stokes were the most expensive acquisitions in the event, with all three of them commanding high prices. 

During the IPL 2023 auction, teams had to carefully consider their strategies to obtain the players they wanted and build up a strong squad. Some teams were ultimately successful and reaped the rewards of careful planning, while others did not meet their expectations. The teams in the IPL are ranked according to their overall player ratings. 

To calculate these rankings, the benchmark players in each category – such as openers, middle order, finishers, all-rounders, pacers, and spinners – are used to compare individual players against them. Additionally, each player is also given a rating based on their performance from the previous three years in the IPL and their current domestic or international form. 

Here we rate all the 10 IPL teams based on their final squads: 

Lucknow Super Giants (5/10) 

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The Lucknow outfit had its second appearance in the auction this year after having a successful run in the previous edition of the profitable tournament. The top order of the franchise was the main source of runs, but the lack of spark in the middle order prevented them from gaining an advantage by scoring big. 

Looking ahead to the new season, the management acquired players from the auction who they believed had the potential to make an impact and lead them to success in the upcoming season. By adding Nicholas Pooran to their squad at the auction for INR 16 crores, the franchise has seemingly improved its chances of success in the upcoming season. However, Lucknow Super Giants is not a match for the other teams this season and which is why they are placed 10th on the list. 

During the auction, the Lucknow outfit signed veteran Amit Mishra at his base price of INR 50 Lakh and roped in experienced pacer Jaydev Unadkat to add a veteran presence to the team. They expect their experience to help them have a successful season. The experienced duo of KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock will be a great asset to the Lucknow franchise, giving them a much-needed advantage in the 2023 season. 

Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan, and Krunal Pandya performed well in their bowling options, and Mark Wood’s availability will also help them. The middle order, though, lacked consistency and strength for the club. For example, Ayush Badoni and Marcus Stoinis lacked the consistency needed to give LSG a strong flair. 

Lucknow Super Giants Full Squad: 

KL Rahul, Ayush Badoni, Karan Sharma, Manan Vohra, Quinton de Kock, Marcus Stoinis, Krishnappa Gowtham, Deepak Hooda, Kyle Mayers, Krunal Pandya, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, Mark Wood, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Nicholas Pooran, Jaydev Unadkat, Yash Thakur, Romario Shepherd, Daniel Sams, Amit Mishra, Prerak Mankad, Swapnil Singh, Naveen ul Haq, Yudhvir Charak

Punjab Kings (5/10) 

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At the IPL 2023 mini-auction, the Punjab Kings made history by signing English all-rounder Sam Curran for a record INR 18.50 crore – making him the most expensive player in IPL history. After the bidding had climbed above INR 11 crore, the Punjab Kings swooped in and won the bid against Mumbai Indians with their final offer. 

As anticipated, the Punjab Kings made the first bid for their former captain Mayank Agarwal but were outmatched in the bidding war by the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Nonetheless, they managed to acquire star Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza at his base price of INR 50 lakh. PBKS also showed strong interest in uncapped pacer Mukesh Kumar but unfortunately lost out to Delhi Capitals, who successfully bagged him for INR 5.5 crore. 

Going into the IPL 2023 auction, the Punjab Kings had a purse of INR 32.2 crore – the second highest amongst all teams – after letting go of nine players, including their captain Mayank Agarwal. Before the auction, they had 16 players on their roster, five of which were overseas cricketers. They also released Caribbean all-rounder Odean Smith and needed direct replacements for both Mayank and Odean. 

Unfortunately, the Punjab Kings had a disappointing mini-auction, resulting in them standing at the 9th spot on this list. They do not have any backups for Arshdeep Singh or a quality replacement for Rahul Chahar, who did not meet expectations in the last season. 

Even though the Punjab Kings splashed a record amount of 18.5 Crore on Sam Curran, their other bids were not quite enough to fill out the gaps present in the team to fulfill those voids. Nevertheless, PBKS made a good signing in the name of youngster Vidwath Kaverappa who had a fantastic performance in the 2022 domestic season. 

Punjab Kings Full Squad: 

Arshdeep Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Jonny Bairstow, Shahrukh Khan, Harpreet Brar, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Rahul Chahar, Liam Livingstone, Raj Bawa, Rishi Dhawan, Baltej Dhanda, Nathan Ellis, Atharva Taide, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza, Harpreet Bhatia, Vidwath Kaverappa, Mohit Rathe, Shivam Singh 

Royal Challengers Bangalore (6/10) 

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The team led by Faf du Plessis was successful in securing a playoff spot in the IPL 2022. But, due to inconsistencies in all departments, they were unsuccessful in the Eliminator. Yet, for the 2023 season, management also had faith in most of the players. 

Only two prominent franchise picks were available on the auction table. Royal Challengers Bangalore made wise acquisitions in English bowler Reece Topley and batsman Will Jacks. On the other hand, the other five picks have never participated in the IPL and are more likely to serve as bench warmers. 

Harshal Patel and Mohammed Siraj were a little odd in the previous season, but Josh Hazlewood and Wanindu Hasaranga impressed. RCB should have searched for someone like Manish Pandey to bolster their batting at number five. Mahipal Lomror appears to be set to bat in that position as of right now. 

The Bangalore-based team, which has one of cricket’s most devoted fan following, entered the auction with a purse worth 8.75 crores. While other well-known teams, including Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, made headlines for their high-profile purchases of Ben Stokes and Cameron Green, respectively, RCB was rather quiet during the earlier rounds of the auction. 

Royal Challengers Bangalore Full Squad: 

Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammad Siraj, Faf Du Plessis, Harshal Patel, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Shahbaz Ahmad, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Josh Hazlewood, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Suyash Prabhudessai, Karn Sharma, Siddharth Kaul, David Willey, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Will Jacks, Manoj Bhandage, Rajan Kumar, Avinash Singh, Sonu Yadav 

Sunrisers Hyderabad (6.5/10) 

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Before the auction, Sunrisers Hyderabad released a significant number of players to assemble a balanced squad ahead of the 2023 season. While they already had a strong bowling lineup, they needed to add great batsmen and fast-bowling all-rounders in particular. The franchise entered the mini-auction with the most money in the bank, INR 42.25 crore, of any of the teams. 

The Sunrisers and Rajasthan Royals engaged in a tense bidding war for the young English batter, Harry Brook. In the end, the Sunrisers emerged victorious and secured Brook for a whopping INR 13.25 Crores – making him their most expensive player to date and the most expensive specialist batter ever sold at a mini-auction, surpassing Shimron Hetmyer (INR 7.75 crore by Delhi Capitals ahead of the 2020 season). 

The three players in the starting eleven who have demonstrated their abilities are Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umran Malik, and T Natarajan. SRH is a contender for the trophy, thanks to the addition of Aiden Markram, Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tripathi, and Abhishek Sharma. 

Sunrisers Hyderabad Full Squad: 

Abdul Samad, Umran Malik, Washington Sundar, Rahul Tripathi, Abhishek Sharma, Kartik Tyagi, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Aiden Markram, Marco Jansen, Glenn Phillips, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Harry Brook, Mayank Agarwal, Heinrich Klaasen, Adil Rashid, Mayank Markande, Vivrant Sharma, Samarth Vyas, Sanvir Singh, Upendra Singh Yadav, Mayank Dagar, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Akeal Hosein, Anmolpreet Singh 

Kolkata Knight Riders (7/10) 

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Kolkata Knight Riders have managed to gather a decent side, but the possible exemption of skipper Shreyas Iyer from IPL 2023 puts them on the back foot. However, we are yet to know the gravity of Shreyas Iyer’s injury. Iyer was ruled out of India’s 3rd Test match and also from their ODI series against Australia. 

Kolkata Knight Riders must reassemble the batting order from scratch after releasing a large number of top and middle-order batters. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, N Jagadeeshan, and Litton Das are three excellent top-order alternatives for the team for IPL 2023. Nitish Rana and Shreyas Iyer also give the squad solidity. 

KKR also has seasoned all-rounders like David Wiese, Shakib Al Hasan, Sunil Narine, and Andre Russell, who may be replaced similarly. Moreover, the bowling unit’s Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, and Tim Southee are excellent choices on the Eden Gardens ground.

Before heading to the 2023 mini-auction, KKR had 11 player slots (eight Indian and three overseas players) with a purse of INR 7.05 crore. The team had released most of their players beforehand, including Pat Cummins (who made himself unavailable to focus on national duties), Sam Billings (backed out from the auction), Aman Khan, Shivam Mavi, Mohammad Nabi, Chamika Karunaratne, Aaron Finch, Alex Hales, Abhijeet Tomar, Ajinkya Rahane, Ashok Sharma, Baba Indrajith, Pratham Singh, Ramesh Kumar, Rasikh Salam, and Sheldon Jackson. 

Kolkata Knight Riders Full Squad: 

Shreyas Iyer (c), Nitish Rana, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Shardul Thakur, Lockie Ferguson, Umesh Yadav, Tim Southee, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy, Anukul Roy, Rinku Singh, Narayan Jagadeesan, Vaibhav Arora, Suyash Sharma, David Weise, Kulwant Khejrolia, Mandeep Singh, Litton Das, Shakib Al Hasan. 

Delhi Capitals (7.5/10) 

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Despite being led by Rishabh Pant, Delhi Capitals were unable to make it to the playoffs of IPL 2022 due to their subpar bowling and lack of closing-out games. However, Prithvi Shaw, David Warner, and Rovman Powell did their part in the batting department. Unfortunately, Rishabh Pant could not convert his starts into big innings, which hindered the team’s ability to win in close matches. 

The exception of Rishabh Pant from the Delhi Capital’s squad due to his recent accident has dented the side’s motivation even before entering the IPL 2023 season. To make matters worse, Delhi Capitals traded Shardul Thakur to Kolkata and were unable to find a suitable replacement for him at the auction. They were successful in getting Rilee Rossouw and Phil Salt to fill in for the injured Mitchell Marsh. But they are missing a potent all-round pace bowler of quality and an explosive Indian hitter in the middle of the order. Ishant Sharma, a seasoned Indian pacer and native of Delhi, joined the team after being acquired by the team for INR 50 Lakh. 

Delhi Capitals Full Squad: 

Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Prithvi Shaw, Anrich Nortje, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Sarfaraz Khan, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Mustafizur Rahman, Kuldeep Yadav, Khaleel Ahmed, Chetan Sakariya, Lalit Yadav, Ripal Patel, Yash Dhull, Rovman Powell, Pravin Dubey, Lungi Ngidi, Vicky Ostwal, Aman Khan, Phil Salt, Ishant Sharma, Mukesh Kumar, Manish Pandey, Rilee Rossouw

Gujarat Titans (8/10) 

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Because of their confidence and momentum, Gujarat Titans managed to clinch the IPL 2022 title in their first attempt. A huge part of their glory goes to their all-around efforts. Hardik Pandya, the captain, took the initiative while the bowlers and batsmen executed their roles flawlessly. 

Pandya and David Miller usually carried the team, contributing strongly to their performances. Nevertheless, finding a reliable middle-order batsman was a struggle for them, and without Pandya in a few matches, they had trouble maintaining the required pace at crucial points in the game. Kane Williamson is a reasonable investment, given his experience, but the Kiwi batsman is out of form and is questionable for the starting XI. They did well to obtain Joshua Little and Shivam Mavi, who are both performing well this year. 

The IPL 2023 mini-auction was held in Kochi on Friday, December 23, and the Gujarat Titans, the defending champions, had the plan to strengthen an already formidable team by adding more depth. In the months before this event, they had swapped veteran New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson and Afghan stumper Rahmanullah Gurbaz to the Kolkata Knight Riders. Along with Lockie Ferguson and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the Hardik Pandya-led team parted ways with players including Dominic Drakes, Gurkeerat Singh, Jason Roy, and Varun Aaron before the IPL 2023 auction. 

Gujarat Titans Full Squad: 

Hardik Pandya (C), Shubman Gill, David Miller, Abhinav Manohar, Sai Sudharsan, Wriddhiman Saha, Matthew Wade, Rashid Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Vijay Shankar, Mohammed Shami, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Pradeep Sangwan, Darshan Nalkande, Jayant Yadav, R Sai Kishore, Noor Ahmad, Kane Williamson, Odean Smith, KS Bharat, Shivam Mavi, Urvil Patel, Joshua Little, Mohit Sharma 

Chennai Super Kings (8/10) 

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The highly popular MS Dhoni-led franchise managed to acquire England’s red-ball captain Ben Stokes at the auction. Stokes is renowned for being a one-man army, having helped England to victory in the T20 World Cup final. Also, if Deepak Chahar remains injury-free, and with the return of inform Ravindra Jadeja ahead of the competition, CSK is likely to be one of the best performers in IPL 2023. 

Chennai Super Kings have top-tier players in the name of Moeen Ali, Devon Conway, and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Ambati Rayudu and MS Dhoni, the tournament’s tried-and-true players, will make up the middle order. Yet, if they want to reach the playoffs for the 12th time, they will require consistent performances from their talented team. 

It surprised everyone when CSK went all out for Stokes when everyone thought they would go for Sam Curran to get him back into their squad. With a budget of INR 20.45 crore and seven slots to fill, including two abroad slots, CSK entered the auction. CSK made some unexpected purchases at the IPL 2023 auction and went all-in on Stokes. 

MS Dhoni and Ben Stokes previously played for the Rising Pune Supergiant. Stokes’ participation will do wonders for CSK now that Dwayne Bravo has announced his retirement from the IPL. They also brought Ajinkya Rahane, who displayed impressive performances while playing for KKR last year. It was a very strategic move to add Rahane to the team when Robin Uthappa left the situation. 

Chennai Super Kings Full Squad: 

MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ambati Rayudu, Subhranshu Senapati, Moeen Ali, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Simarjeet Singh, Prashant Solanki, Mahesh Theekshana, Ajinkya Rahane, Ben Stokes, Shaik Rasheed, Nishant Sindhu, Kyle Jamieson, Ajay Mandal, Bhagath Varma 

Mumbai Indians (8.5/10) 

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In an ordinary IPL 2023 auction, the Mumbai Indians purchased Cameron Green for 17.5 Crores. The all-rounder, who many consider the future of Australian cricket, made an impression on his first white-ball tour of India. Also, they were able to get the services of seasoned spinners Piyush Chawla and Shams Mulani, which was crucial for them in 2023. However, the exemption of Jasprit Bumrah from MI’s squad can prove to be a big blow for the MI.

Jhye Richardson’s stellar performance in the BBL 2022–23 and proven track record in T20s made him a value at his base price. The additional purchases were satisfactory and are not expected to be included in the XI. The XI already had the majority of its members, and the franchise did well to put the final pieces together. 

Last season, Mumbai Indians invested heavily in Ishan Kishan and Jofra Archer, intending to create a team for the future. They performed similar acts of valor once more, this time shelling out an astounding Rs. 17.50 crore to sign Australian all-rounder Cameron Green. After a bidding war with Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Capitals, MI ultimately acquired the major player. 

Rohit Sharma can bat in the middle order, with Green opening with Ishan Kishan. This change will be worth seeing, as it can be a make or break for the franchise in the upcoming season. They have quality pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Jofra Archer in their ranks, which will help them in crunch moments, but there is not enough backup for them. Rohit Sharma can also slot into the middle order with Cameron Green opening with Ishan Kishan, which could be a make-or-break combination for the franchise. 

Mumbai Indians Full Squad: 

Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Dewald Brevis, Tilak Varma, Jofra Archer, Tim David, Mohd Arshad Khan, Ramandeep Singh, Hrithik Shokeen, Arjun Tendulkar, Tristan Stubbs, Kumar Kartikeya, Jason Behrendorff, Akash Madhwal, Cameron Green, Jhye Richardson, Piyush Chawla, Duan Jansen, Vishnu Vinod, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Raghav Goyal

Rajasthan Royals (9/10) 

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Being the runner-up in the IPL 2022 season, Rajasthan Royals have high hopes of winning the trophy in 2023. After a successful auction, they now have arguably the best squad on paper. Although they already had a strong top-order and bowling lineup, they still needed to bring in an all-rounder and middle-order batsman to complete their team. 

Rajasthan Royals have a reliable batting unit with Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Prasidh Krishna, Trent Boult, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Yuzvendra Chahal make up a strong unit on the bowling side. They also have a third backup spinner in Adam Zampa, who is one of the best in the business. Joe Root, a hitter with a sound approach, has emerged as a top purchase for the squad and may serve as an anchor. On the other hand, Jason Holder will be a help to the side because of his all-around skills and give them a fifth bowling option. 

Despite releasing nine players, Rajasthan Royals entered the 2023 auction with the third-lowest purse of INR 13.2 crore. However, they were able to hold onto key players and didn’t feel pressured to drastically alter their lineup for the 2022 season, which was their strongest IPL season since winning the championship in 2008. 

With a balanced bowling lineup that included Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Prasidh Krishna, and Kuldeep Sen last season, the Rajasthan Royals were excellent. The Royals also kept backup pace alternatives Obed McCoy and Navdeep Saini, but no backup spinners were available. The additions of Adam Zampa and Murugan Ashwin have significantly improved the spin department for the Royals, who have a 25-player squad for the IPL 2023. 

Rajasthan Royals Full Squad:

Sanju Samson (c & wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shimron Hetmyer, Devdutt Padikkal, Jos Buttler (wk), Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Prasidh Krishna, Trent Boult, Obed McCoy, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Sen, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, KC Cariappa, Jason Holder, Donovan Ferreira (wk), Kunal Rathore, Adam Zampa, KM Asif, Murugan Ashwin, Akash Vashisht, Abdul PA, Joe Root.

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Nitish Rana announced as interim captain of KKR in place of Shreyas Iyer

Nitish Rana announced as interim captain of KKR in place of Shreyas Iyer

By March 28, 2023 0

Nitish Rana has been handed the reigns of two-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. The left-hander replaces Shreyas Iyer, who is recovering from a back injury.

Announcing the news of interim captain, the franchisee stated, “While we are hopeful that Shreyas will recover and participate at some stage in the IPL 2023 edition, we feel fortunate that Nitish, with the captaincy experience having led his state side in white ball cricket and the IPL experience he has had with KKR since 2018, will do a great job.”

The franchisee further said, “We are also confident that under Head Coach Chandrakant Pandit and the support staff, he will get all the support needed off the field, and the highly experienced leaders in the squad will provide all support that Nitish may need on the field. We wish him the best in his new role and Shreyas a full and speedy recovery.”

Nitish Rana has been with the franchise since 2018 and has scored upwards of 300 runs in each of the five seasons. The 29-year-old has captaincy experience leading Delhi teams in the Indian domestic circuit. He has also represented India in two T20Is and an ODI, with all three of his international experiences coming on the tour of Sri Lanka in July 2021.

With Nitish Rana taking the captaincy duties, the coaching duties are being handled by Mumbai stalwart Chandrakant Pandit. Pandit replaces Brendon McCullum as the head coach, while Bharat Arun is appointed as the bowling coach.

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The best-playing XI of the Women’s Premier League 2023

The best-playing XI of the Women’s Premier League 2023

By March 27, 2023 0

On a night when Harmanpreet Kaur-led Mumbai Indians lifted the Women’s Premier League trophy, not only did the Women in Blue and Gold win, but it was a victory for women’s cricket. The successful conclusion of the inaugural Women’s Premier League ensured women’s cricket was watched in every Indian household.

Before the tournament began, we had maybe two or three Indian female cricketers like Mithali Raj, Harmanpreet Kaur, and Smriti Mandhana, who were household names. But this competition has helped unearth the Saika Ishaques of the world, the Shreyanka Patils of the world, and the Alice Capseys of the world. They have reached the homes of billions of people all over the world. Their stunning efforts have generated the loudest roars in the stadium.

During the 3-week WPL, we saw some scintillating performances from the best female cricketers. From Issy Wong’s incredible hat trick against UP Warriorz in the Eliminator to Meg Lanning’s incredible batting throughout the WPL 2023.

In this article, we will have a look at the best-playing XI of the first-ever Women’s Premier League.

Openers: Yastika Bhatia (wk) and Hayley Matthews

The most successful opening combination of the WPL, Mumbai Indians’ Yastika Bhatia and Hayley Matthews, are a force to reckon with. The left-right combo destroyed the bowling lineup of all the other teams in the WPL.

The left-handed Yastika returned 214 runs at a strike rate of 112.04, making multiple pivotal contributions that saw her win the Emerging Player of the Season award.

While her opening partner, Matthews, made contributions with the bat as well as the ball. The West Indian all-rounder took 16 wickets and amassed 271 runs in just ten games. She was also awarded the “Purple Cap” for taking the most wickets in the entire season.

Middle Order: Shafali Verma, Meg Lanning, and Nat Sciver-Brunt

The opening duo of Delhi Capitals, i.e., Shafali Verma and Meg Lanning, was the second most successful opening combination after the Mumbai duo of Yastika Bhatia and Hayley Matthews.

Both Shafali and Lanning had a very successful WPL. Meg Lanning, leading the Delhi franchisee, took the team to the final of the tournament. Besides, she was also awarded for her wonderful and exquisite batting with the “Orange Cap.” Lanning made 345 runs in just nine innings at an average of 49.29.

Shafali Verma, who is creating waves with her attacking style of play, vowed cricket fans all across the world with her elegant strokes in the WPL. Shafali garnered 252 runs in nine innings at a stunning strike rate of 185.29.

The third player that holds the middle-order fort for this combined playing XI from the WPL is Mumbai Indians’ all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt. England international Natalie Sciver-Brunt took 10 wickets and scored 332 runs in 10 matches. Sciver-Brunt was adjudged the “Player of the Series” for her all-round performance. Sciver-Brunt played a magnificent knock in the final of the WPL to take her team to victory.

Lower-middle Order: Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Harleen Deol, and Shreyanka Patil

With her aggressive and attacking leadership style, Harmanpreet Kaur-led Mumbai Indians won the inaugural Women’s Premier League. Harmanpreet Kaur didn’t put a foot wrong in the entire WPL campaign. After smashing a blistering half-century in the opening match of the WPL, Harmanpreet Kaur didn’t put a foot wrong. Be it her leadership skills or her elegant batting, she was always in top form. Kaur scored 281 runs in 9 innings at an average of 40.14.

Gujarat Giants, who had a terrible season winning just 2 matches in the group stage, had one positive, i.e., Harleen Deol. The 24-year-old had an excellent season amassing 202 runs in just 8 matches at an impressive strike rate of 125.47. 

Shreyanka Patil was the only positive for the star-studded Royal Challengers Bangalore in an otherwise forgetful campaign. The youngster showed immense maturity in tense situations to take her team to victory from the clutches of defeat. A player for the future, Shreyanka’s incredible six against Gujarat Giants was quite reminiscent of AB de Villier’s legendary lap shot on the leg side. 

Spinners: Deepti Sharma and Saika Ishaque

Team India star Deepti Sharma had a decent WPL campaign. She didn’t quite play as per the high standards set by her. The off-spinner took nine wickets in nine matches at a strike rate of 23.22. 

The breakout star of the Women’s Premier League 2023, Saika Ishaque, also makes the list. The left-arm orthodox spinner took 15 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 16.27. Bought at her base price of INR 10 lakhs, Saika became the first cricketer to take 4 wickets in a WPL match.

Having an economy rate of 7.00, the left-arm spinner is considered the future of India.

Fast Bowlers: Shikha Pandey and Issy Wong

Young pace sensation from England Issy Wong set the WPL stage on fire with her fiery bowling spells that dismantled many batting lineups. Aside from picking up the first hat trick in the competition’s history, Wong was at her penetrative best throughout WPL 2023. She finished with 15 wickets from 10 games at an economy rate of 6.46.

Sharing the new ball duties with Wong is Team India star Shikha Pandey. She was the best pacer Indian pacer on display at the inaugural WPL. With her accurate and intelligent bowling, she captured 10 wickets in just 9 matches at an average of 21.10.

Best Playing XI of the WPL:  Yastika Bhatia (wk),  Hayley Matthews, Shafali Verma, Meg Lanning, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Harleen Deol, Shreyanka Patil, Deepti Sharma, Saika Ishaque, Shikha Pandey and Issy Wong.

Categories: Sports360
Harmanpreet Kaur's MI are the first-ever WPL champions

Harmanpreet Kaur’s MI are the first-ever WPL champions

By March 27, 2023 0

Yesterday was a historic day for women’s cricket. The reason? The final of the first-ever Women’s Premier League was conducted at Mumbai’s Brabourne Stadium, which saw Harmanpreet Kaur’s Mumbai Indians face Meg Lanning-led Delhi Capitals.

On a starry Mumbai night, the WPL final saw the Mumbai Indians beat Delhi Capitals by 7 wickets thanks to some disciplined bowling and Nat Sciver-Brunt’s composed half-century.

Batting first, Delhi Capitals had a disastrous start losing three wickets for just 35 runs on the board. Despite the top-order collapse, Meg Lanning was standing tall before the disciplined bowling of Mumbai Indians. But a terrible mixup with Jess Jonnassen saw Lanning’s wonderful innings come to a halt. And from there saw a collapse from the Delhi batters. However, a late flourish from Shikha Pandey and Radha Yadav saw the team go past 130 runs on the board. The Delhi Capitals innings ended on 131 runs on the fall of 9 wickets.

Chasing the target, Mumbai didn’t have the start they expected. The Women in Blue and Gold lost two quick wickets in under 4 overs, with the score reading just 23 runs. As it seemed like Mumbai would bottle the chase, two of Mumbai Indians’ strong pillars, Harmanpreet Kaur and Nat Sciver-Brunt, played some intelligent cricket. The two stitched a 72-run stand to take their team within touching distance.

After Harmanpreet’s dismissal, Sciver-Brunt took it upon herself to take the team home. With help from Amelia Kerr, the duo toyed with the Delhi Capitals’ bowling to win the match for the team.

With this team, Mumbai Indians carved their name in history, becoming the first-ever champions of the WPL.

Let’s have a look at how the Twitter world reacted after the wonderful win by Harmanpreet Kaur and her girls.

 

 

 

 

 

Mumbai Indians’ WPL campaign was filled with several excellent individual performances that helped them become the champions. West Indian all-rounder, Hayley Matthews’s brilliant effort in the bowling department won her the “Purple Cap.” Matthews took 16 wickets in just 10 games at an average of 12.62.

England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt was adjudged the “Player of the Series” for her all-round performance. Sciver-Brunt took 10 wickets and scored 332 runs in 10 matches. Sciver-Brunt was marginally behind Meg Lanning for the “Orange Cup.”

The successful conclusion to the first-ever Women’s Premier League showed that women’s league cricket is here to stay. With the support and love that the WPL 2023 has got, the next edition promises to be bigger and better.

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