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Category: Cricket

Kohli's Hugs Stir Reactions: Disappointment to Appreciation

Kohli’s Hugs Stir Reactions: Disappointment to Appreciation

By April 11, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s Hugs Spark Reactions: From Disappointment to Appreciation

During the IPL 2024 opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders, a viral photo of Virat Kohli embracing Gautam Gambhir caught the attention of fans. The gesture marked a significant shift from their heated altercation during the IPL 2023 clash between RCB and Lucknow Super Giants, where Gambhir served as mentor.

Kohli’s subsequent hug with Naveen-ul-Haq, the LSG pacer involved in the previous tiff, further fueled speculation about his intentions. However, Kohli has since expressed his disappointment with the public’s reaction to his actions.

“People are disappointed by my behavior. I hugged Naveen. Then the other day, Gauti bhai came and hugged me. Because your masala got over, you are doing ‘wooh wooh’,” Kohli remarked at an event.

Despite Kohli’s perceived disappointment, former Indian cricket stars have lauded his gestures. Ravi Shastri praised the move, while Irfan Pathan, who has played alongside both Gambhir and Kohli, commented, “Gautam Gambhir, the senior guy, actually came forward. Sometimes you cross the line, but when you meet in the future, you meet nicely.”

Gambhir, known for his competitive spirit, has previously expressed his desire to defeat RCB at every opportunity. “One team which I wanted to beat every time, probably even in my dreams, was RCB. They had a flamboyant team with Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, and AB de Villiers, but they hadn’t won anything. That kind of attitude, I can’t take,” Gambhir said.

Despite the past rivalry, Kohli’s recent gestures suggest a willingness to move forward. As the IPL season progresses, it remains to be seen whether the spirit of sportsmanship will prevail over the competitive intensity that defines the tournament.

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Kohli's IPL Century Sparks T20 World Cup Selection Debate

Kohli’s IPL Century Sparks T20 World Cup Selection Debate

By April 11, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s record-breaking eighth IPL century has sparked a heated debate over his selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Despite leading the IPL 2024 run-scoring charts with 316 runs in five matches, Kohli’s slow strike rate of 146.30 has raised concerns among critics.

However, Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate Glenn Maxwell has come to his defense, dismissing the doubts surrounding his T20 World Cup fate. Maxwell praised Kohli’s exceptional batting skills, particularly his ability to perform under pressure.

“Virat Kohli is the most clutch player I have ever played against,” Maxwell said. “The innings he played against us in Mohali during the 2016 T20 World Cup is still the best innings I have ever seen been played against me. His awareness of what he needs to do to win the game is just phenomenal.”

Maxwell’s comments highlight the importance of Kohli’s experience and big-match temperament. Despite his recent struggles with strike rate, Kohli remains a proven match-winner with a remarkable track record in international cricket.

Kohli’s T20 international career has seen him play 117 matches for India, scoring 4037 runs at a strike rate of 138.16. He has scored one hundred and 37 fifties, demonstrating his consistency and ability to adapt to different conditions.

While the debate over Kohli’s selection for the T20 World Cup is likely to continue, Maxwell’s support serves as a reminder of his immense talent and potential. With the tournament just months away, Kohli will be eager to prove his critics wrong and cement his place in India’s squad.

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Faf du Plessis Lauds Virat Kohli's Infectious Energy and Intimidating Presence

Faf du Plessis Lauds Virat Kohli’s Infectious Energy and Intimidating Presence

By April 11, 2024 0

RCB Skipper Faf du Plessis Praises Virat Kohli’s Infectious Energy and Intimidating Presence

Ahead of the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Mumbai Indians, RCB skipper Faf du Plessis has heaped praise on his star teammate Virat Kohli, highlighting his infectious energy and intimidating presence on the field.

In an exclusive interview with Star Sports, du Plessis spoke candidly about his on-field chemistry with Kohli, stating, “Batting is something we click together (in). It’s unbelievable batting with him. He is one of my favorite guys to bat with. He brings out so much energy in me.”

Du Plessis went on to emphasize Kohli’s unwavering passion for the game, saying, “Sometimes I feel like I am fist-bumping my gloves through his hand because he gets so passionate.”

Their synergy extends beyond batting, as du Plessis highlighted their shared competitiveness and commitment to fielding. “We both like catching balls. We both are very competitive. He is really important to me in terms of fielding. He leads so many things for us as a team. He sets the tone for the energy on the field. Without him on the field, it is not the same,” the South African remarked.

While du Plessis has yet to find his batting rhythm in the ongoing IPL season, Kohli has been in scintillating form, amassing 316 runs including a century and two half-centuries, to sit atop the run-scoring charts. However, RCB’s team results have been disappointing, with the team currently languishing at No. 9 on the points table with just one win from five matches.

Despite the team’s struggles, du Plessis remains optimistic, believing that Kohli’s infectious energy and leadership will inspire the team to turn things around. “He is a great leader. He is a great player. He is a great person. He is a great friend. He is a great teammate. He is a great everything,” du Plessis concluded.

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OYO Offers 6,000 Free Stays to Cricket Fans in Prediction Challenge

OYO Offers 6,000 Free Stays to Cricket Fans in Prediction Challenge

By April 11, 2024 0

OYO’s Free Stays League: Cricket Fans to Win Free Stays and Prizes

As the cricket season heats up, OYO, the global travel technology company, is offering an exclusive treat to cricket enthusiasts: 6,000 free stays at its premium properties across India. The “Free Stays League” campaign invites fans to participate in a daily prediction challenge, with 100 winners each day.

To participate, fans must correctly predict the winner of each match in the ongoing T20 tournament. Each correct prediction earns participants OYO Rupee worth INR 100, redeemable for future bookings. Additionally, participants are entered into a daily draw, with 100 individuals winning free stays at premium OYO properties like SUNDAY Hotels, Palette Hotels, and OYO Townhouses. The winners also receive Amazon vouchers worth up to Rs 5,000.

The participant with the most accurate predictions throughout the tournament will win the grand prize: an iPhone 15.

To promote the campaign, OYO has launched a humorous ad film that playfully addresses those who might try to leverage personal connections for a free stay. The ad features characters boasting about their (fictitious) connections with OYO founder and CEO Ritesh Agarwal.

“Cricket holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Indians,” said Ritesh Agarwal, Founder and Group CEO of OYO. “Our special offer not only adds excitement to the cricket matches but also underscores our commitment to providing unique experiences for our guests.”

Nikhil Chaudhary, founder and CEO of Blank The Agency, added, “We wanted to take it away from the typical cricket ad and make it about regular people. The insight that people never truly say that they got something for free, but rather brag about getting it in different ways, hit home for us.”

OYO’s Free Stays League campaign reaffirms the company’s dedication to creating memorable moments for its guests. By offering free stays and prizes, OYO is adding to the excitement of the cricket season and providing fans with a chance to experience its premium hospitality services.

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Virat Kohli's Unexpected Fear: Turbulence on Flights

Virat Kohli’s Unexpected Fear: Turbulence on Flights

By April 11, 2024 0

Virat Kohli’s Unexpected Fear: Turbulence on Flights

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) opener Virat Kohli has revealed an unexpected fear that has been a constant companion during his travels: turbulence. In a viral video from the RCB Podcast Trailer, Kohli candidly shared his apprehension about flying, particularly when encountering bad turbulence.

“I am very scared of turbulence. Oh my god, I look so stupid and like a fool. Whenever there is bad turbulence, I am the first guy to hold the sides of the seat. So I feel like, I am the gone,” Kohli confessed.

Despite his fear of air travel, Kohli has been in exceptional form in the ongoing IPL 2024. The prolific right-hand batter has already notched up a century and amassed 316 runs in just five matches, boasting an impressive average of 105.33.

However, Kohli’s stellar performances have not translated into team success for RCB this season. With only one win from their first five matches, RCB find themselves languishing at the bottom of the points table.

As they prepare to face the five-time champions Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, Kohli and his team will be eager to turn their fortunes around and secure a crucial victory in the tournament.

Kohli’s fear of turbulence is a reminder that even the most accomplished athletes have their own personal challenges. Despite his apprehension, Kohli continues to perform at the highest level, showcasing his resilience and determination.

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Riyan Parag's Form Impresses, but Sangakkara Cautions on T20 World Cup Inclusion

Riyan Parag’s Form Impresses, but Sangakkara Cautions on T20 World Cup Inclusion

By April 11, 2024 0

Rajasthan Royals’ director of cricket, Kumar Sangakkara, has lauded the exceptional form of Riyan Parag, while refraining from confirming his spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad.

Parag has been a revelation for the Royals this season, ranking second in the IPL’s leading run-scorers’ list with 261 runs. His impactful contributions have been crucial for the team’s success.

Sangakkara praised Parag’s potential, stating, “I think his (Parag’s) potential is there for everyone to see.” He emphasized the importance of Parag focusing on the present IPL campaign, rather than speculating about his inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad.

“For Riyan it’s really about concentrating on Rajasthan and this season, and whatever happens (being considered for T20 World Cup) will happen after that,” Sangakkara said.

Sangakkara expressed confidence in Parag’s abilities, highlighting his dedication and hard work. “As long as he keeps his head down, he is working hard, he is batting well, he is very organized, he’s worked hard in the off-season, he just needs to keep doing those good things and, if he does all that, good things will happen,” he said.

Despite the Royals’ recent defeat against Gujarat Titans, Sangakkara defended star spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, asserting, “Ash (Ashwin) is one of the greatest spinners to play the game.” He anticipated a strong comeback from Ashwin, emphasizing that occasional setbacks are part of the game.

Reflecting on the match, Sangakkara identified crucial moments where the Royals faltered, particularly in the last two overs. Despite a commendable effort from Kuldeep Sen, pinch-hitters Rahul Tewatia and Rashid Khan’s contributions tilted the game in favor of Gujarat Titans.

As the IPL season progresses, Sangakkara and the Rajasthan Royals remain focused on regaining momentum and securing victories in their quest for success in the tournament.

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Sanju Samson's Captaincy Under Fire After RR's First IPL 2024 Loss

Sanju Samson’s Captaincy Under Fire After RR’s First IPL 2024 Loss

By April 11, 2024 0

Former Australia cricketer Tom Moody has raised concerns over Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson’s captaincy decisions during their defeat to Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2024. RR suffered their first loss of the season on Wednesday after four consecutive wins.

Moody questioned Samson’s decision to underutilize pacer Trent Boult, who bowled only two overs and conceded eight runs in his first spell. However, Samson opted to bowl veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin at the death instead of completing Boult’s quota of overs.

“You had to use Trent Boult at the back end. He’s certainly been used at the death before, and he’s got a huge amount of experience. So when it comes to pressure, he’s used to absorbing that pressure and taking on those challenges. So I was really surprised that he wasn’t spent today. He left the park with two overs left in the bank, which doesn’t make any sense whatsoever,” Moody said on ESPNcricinfo.

Former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta also echoed Moody’s sentiments, questioning Samson’s decision to use Ashwin over Boult in the 17th over. “I can understand Ashwin bowling the 15th over, but the 17th? If you look at the bowling unit, Boult is the most experienced fast bowler there. Irrespective of whether it’s his strength or not, you’re still going to bowl him at the back-end. If he’s got overs left, you’ve got to bowl him,” Dasgupta said.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra also criticized Samson’s decision, stating that Boult should have been utilized in the middle overs. “If you are bowling with a dry ball, then if you have scored enough runs, you should have the bowling to defend it. The truth is that Rajasthan have the bowling. They didn’t play Nandre Burger, but despite that, they have the bowling. Keshav Maharaj made his debut, and they got him to bowl only two overs,” Chopra said.

“Why did Trent Boult bowl only two overs? I didn’t understand that. Two overs, eight runs, and he bowled only two overs. Why? Keshav gave 16 runs in his two overs, so totally only 24 runs went in those four overs. Trent Boult could have been given overs in the middle, but you didn’t do that. You went towards spinners,” he added.

Despite the defeat, RR remain atop the table after five games. They will next face Punjab Kings on Saturday.

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CA's Decision to Cap Lyon's County Stint Draws Criticism

CA’s Decision to Cap Lyon’s County Stint Draws Criticism

By April 11, 2024 0

Nathan Lyon’s County Championship stint with Lancashire has been capped at seven games by Cricket Australia (CA), a decision that has drawn criticism from former players and commentators. Lyon, 36, had initially signed to play the entire 2024 season across all three formats, but discussions with selectors reduced his stint to the first half of the season and red-ball cricket only.

Lyon expressed disappointment at the restrictions, while Lancashire was further frustrated when the first game of the season was washed out, leaving Lyon with just two overs bowled. CA’s high-performance team, led by selectors and the Sport Science Sport Medicine (SSSM) team, carefully monitors the total number of first-class matches senior players participate in to prevent injuries.

Lyon played 12 first-class matches in the 2022-23 summer, including a tour of India where he had a heavy workload. After bowling 53 overs in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston, he tore his calf badly in the first innings at Lord’s, which changed the trajectory of the series. The selectors became acutely aware of Lyon’s importance to the side as they did not win another Test in the series in his absence.

Former Test captain Michael Clarke questioned CA’s decision, saying it “doesn’t make sense” for Lyon to return home for pre-season when Australia’s next Test match is not until November 22. Clarke believes Lyon would benefit from playing more cricket rather than doing a pre-season that could lead to injuries.

Former Australia batter Callum Ferguson also criticized the decision, saying he would like to see Lyon get the opportunity to play the full season if he thinks it’s best for his career. Ferguson believes it would leave Lyon in better shape for the next Ashes series.

CA’s chair of selectors George Bailey said the decision was made with the next summer in mind, where Australia is set to play seven Tests in less than three months. Bailey emphasized that the decision is not necessarily made for every player.

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LSG Favored to Overcome Struggling DC in IPL Clash

LSG Favored to Overcome Struggling DC in IPL Clash

By April 11, 2024 0

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will face off against Delhi Capitals (DC) in an Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Friday, with LSG holding a significant advantage.

LSG, currently third in the points table, boasts a formidable bowling attack. Despite the potential absence of Mayank Yadav due to an abdominal niggle, they have a strong lineup including Yash Thakur, Naveen-ul-Haq, Krunal Pandya, and Ravi Bishnoi. Their opening pair of Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul has been consistent, while Nicholas Pooran has been in exceptional form. However, Devdutt Padikkal remains a concern, having yet to reach double digits.

DC, on the other hand, has struggled to find a Plan B, as evidenced by their recent losses to Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians. Their Indian pace attack lacks firepower, with Khaleel Ahmed and Ishant Sharma failing to deliver consistently. Mukesh Kumar is expected to return from injury, but his performance has been underwhelming. Medium pacers Sumit Kumar and Rasikh Dar could face challenges against LSG’s strong batting lineup.

Pace spearhead Anrich Nortje has also been inconsistent, leaking runs at a high economy rate. DC’s batting has been heavily reliant on skipper Rishabh Pant and Tristan Stubbs, with a lack of depth in Indian talent on the bench. Prithvi Shaw has shown some improvement, but uncapped Indian players have failed to make a significant impact.

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India's 2024 T20 World Cup Squad: Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube Emerge as Contenders

India’s 2024 T20 World Cup Squad: Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube Emerge as Contenders

By April 11, 2024 0

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 in full swing, the anticipation for the announcement of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad is reaching fever pitch. The deadline for naming the squad is May 1, and the selection committee faces the daunting task of choosing the best players to represent India in the global tournament.

India’s quest for an ICC trophy since 2013 has been a long and arduous one, and the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies presents a golden opportunity to break the drought. In recent years, there has been a growing clamor for the inclusion of young and fearless players in the T20 format.

One player who has emerged as a strong contender for a spot in the squad is Riyan Parag. The Rajasthan Royals batsman has been in scintillating form in the IPL, scoring three half-centuries in his last four matches. In his last 15 T20 innings, Parag has amassed 771 runs at an astonishing average of 90 and a strike rate of 170.7.

“He is somebody that the selection committee has kept an eye on. All he needs to do is keep playing,” said legendary commentator Sunil Gavaskar about Parag.

Another player who has impressed the selectors is Shivam Dube. The all-rounder has showcased his exceptional striking ability against spinners, making him a valuable asset in the middle order. Venkatesh Prasad, a former India pacer, has advocated for Dube’s inclusion in the squad, along with Rinku Singh and Suryakumar Yadav.

“Shivam Dube for his striking ability against spinners, Surya for being the best T20 international batter, and Rinku Singh for his exceptional finishing ability. It will be great if India finds a way to have these 3 in the 11 in the T20 WC,” Prasad posted on social media.

However, the wicket-keeper’s spot remains a contentious issue. Prasad did not mention any specific names, leaving the door open for a number of players to stake their claim.

The selection committee will have a tough decision to make when it comes to the batting unit. With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma being automatic selections, the remaining spots will be fiercely contested. The likes of Hardik Pandya, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul will all be hoping to prove their worth in the IPL and earn a place in the World Cup squad.

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