Tag: CSK

  • IPL 2024: Rating teams’ performances after first week

    IPL 2024: Rating teams’ performances after first week

    The 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) completed its first week on March 28 and in these seven days, cricket fans witnessed some blockbuster cricketing action. The defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are currently on the top of the points table with two off two wins while the five-time trophy winners Mumbai Indians (MI) are sitting on the bottom of the tally with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), yet to open their account.

    The week also saw some intriguing encounters that raised the excitement level of the competition. With the conclusion of the first week, it’s essential to analyse the performances of the 10 sides. Talking more, let’s rate the performances of all sides in the tournament, thus far.

    Here are the ratings of all 10 sides after the first week

    10. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)- 4/10

    Lucknow Super Giants. (Photo Source: IPL/BCCI)

    LSG kicked off their tournament with a 20-run defeat against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. Lucknow’s pace attack looked indisciplined in their first game, which helped RR to score 193 runs in 20 overs. Chasing a mammoth target, LSG’s top-order batters Quinton de Kock and Devdutt Padikkal went back to the pavilion early. KL Rahul played a steady knock of 58 and Nicholas Pooran also hit a half-century, but that wasn’t enough for the Super Giants to cross the line. 


    9. Mumbai Indians (MI)- 4/10

    Mumbai Indians
    Mumbai Indians. (Photo Source: IPL/BCCI)

    MI haven’t performed upto the expectations in their initial two games. Against Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Narendra Modi Stadium, they faced a six-run defeat while in their next game, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) crushed them by 31 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Following two defeats, MI captain Hardik Pandya has come under fierce criticism due to his leadership decisions that impacted the team’s performance negatively.


    8. Delhi Capitals (DC)- 4/10

    Delhi Capitals Team
    Delhi Capitals Team. (Photo Source: IPL/BCCI)

    Delhi Capitals (DC) are struggling to rack up two points on the points tally as they lost their both games in the previous week. In their opening contest against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mohali, they fell 20 runs short while following 175. Similarly, against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Jaipur, they couldn’t achieve 186 runs. In both games, DC looked out of rhythm in all departments of the game.


    7. Gujarat Titans- 6/10

    GT won their maiden game against MI by six runs, but their batting woes came out in the open. Wriddhiman Saha, David Miller, and Vijay Shankar failed to play impactful knocks against Mumbai, but the bowlers’ decent work escaped Gujarat from a defeat. After beating MI, GT clashed with CSK at Chepauk and got a 63-run hammering. The Yellow Army outclassed Shubman Gill and his boys in all departments of the game. GT’s key players Rashid Khan, Gill, Miller, and Umesh Yadav failed to be at their best against the defending champions.


    6. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)- 6/10

    RCB

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) looked ordinary against CSK in the inaugural game of the competition at the MA Chidambaram Stadium and faced a six-wicket loss. The visitor’s solid batting got exposed as some of their eminent names went back to the pavilion cheaply. In the bowling department, only Mayank Dagar looked decent. Following the loss against CSK, the Challengers tasted a four-wicket victory against PBKS, but their upper middle order again put up a disappointing show with their lacklustre performances.


    5. Punjab Kings (PBKS)- 7/10

    Punjab Kings

    PBKS began their tournament with a four-wicket win over DC, riding on Sam Curran’s spunky 63-run innings off 47 deliveries. Shikhar Dhawan and his men failed to carry the winning momentum ahead as they couldn’t defend a competitive total of 176 against RCB at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Harpreet Brar bowled an impressive spell for his side, picking up 2/13 figures in four overs.


    4. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)- 8/10

    KKR vs SRH
    KKR vs SRH. (Source -IPL)

    Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) didn’t have a great start against SRH at the iconic Eden Gardens, but Phil Salt held his nerves and notched up a fine fifty. After Salt’s departure, Andre Russell took the matter into his own hands and smashed an unbeaten 64 off 25. Russell’s batting effort helped KKR post 208 runs on the board. Saving the massive total, Kolkata got exceptional numbers from their veteran spinner Sunil Narine, who recorded 1/19 figures. Young pacer Harshit Rana also impressed with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets with an impressive last over.


    3. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)- 8/10

    SRH vs MI

    SRH have played an aggressive brand of cricket in the first week. They fell four runs short while chasing 209 against Kolkata but against MI at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, they looked extremely fabulous and won the game by 31 runs. Batting first, the Orange Army scored 277 runs in 20 overs and surpassed RCB’s highest team total of 263, among many other records that were tumbled. Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, and Heinrich Klaasen displayed their batting brilliance, while Pat Cummins also shone with the ball.


    2. Rajasthan Royals (RR)- 9/10

    Rajasthan Royals

    Rajasthan stood at the second spot on the points table after winning their both games in the first week. Against LSG in Jaipur, when their openers returned to the pavilion early, Sanju Samson and Riyan Parag played their roles exceptionally and helped the Men in Pink score 184 runs in 20 overs. RR bowlers restricted Lucknow to 173 and accumulated two points with a 20-run win. RR continued their sensational show on their home ground against DC, with a 12-run victory. Parag again stepped up with his bat and smashed an unbeaten 84 off just 45.


    1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)- 9.5/10

    CSK vs GT
    CSK vs GT. (Source -IPL)

    CSK kicked off the tournament with their four-wicket triumph against RCB at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Riding on Mustafizur Rahman’s 4/29, the defending champions restricted the Royal Challengers to 173. The Men in Yellow pulled off the chase in 18.4 overs with the sensational batting efforts of Rachin Ravindra (37 off 15) and Shivam Dube (34 off 28). Mustafizur received the Player of the Match award for his stunning bowling.

    Chennai’s next victim was GT, who faced a 63-run defeat. Ravindra (46 off 20) and Dube (51 off 23) again shone with their bats again and helped their team amass 206 runs in 20 overs. With the ball, Tushar Deshpande grabbed 2/21 figures in his four overs to stop the visitors on 143.

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  • WATCH: Sameer Rizvi’s family goes crazy as the young CSK batter hits Rashid Khan for 2 sixes on IPL debut

    WATCH: Sameer Rizvi’s family goes crazy as the young CSK batter hits Rashid Khan for 2 sixes on IPL debut

    Sameer Rizvi’s dream debut for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) was a highlight in their convincing 63-run victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2024 on Tuesday. The big-hitting batter, acquired by CSK for a hefty Rs 8.40 crore last year, announced his arrival in style.

    Sameer Rizvi smashes Rashid Khan for two sixes in an over

    Coming into bat at No. 6 after Shivam Dube‘s dismissal, Rizvi faced T20 specialist Rashid Khan for the very first ball of his IPL career. In a moment that will be etched in his memory, Rizvi dispatched the ace spinner for a massive six over deep backward square leg.

    Living up to his reputation as a six-hitting specialist, Rizvi wasn’t done there. He followed his first six with a double and another dot ball before launching another six off Rashid’s bowling. Rizvi displayed nerves of steel, stepping out and slogging the last ball of the 19th over – a slightly fuller delivery outside off – for a towering six over long-off. The power on the shot ensured it cleared the boundary with ease.

    Rizvi’s family, watching the match back home in Meerut, erupted in joy witnessing their son’s dream debut unfold on the big stage.

    “Pehli ball pe chakka keh ke gaya tha’ (He said he will hit a six on the first ball),” stated one of the family members.

    Even CSK captain MS Dhoni couldn’t hide his elation, sporting a wide smile after Rizvi’s audacious six-hitting against Rashid.

    Here’s the video:

    Also WATCH: CSK youngster Sameer Rizvi makes heartfelt gesture towards ‘forever legend’ Virat Kohli

    Dominant victory for CSK

    While Rizvi’s cameo was a memorable moment, the real heroes for CSK were openers Rachin Ravindra (46 off 20) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (46 off 36) who provided a solid foundation with their respective knocks. The in-form Dube continued his rampage with a blistering 52 off just 23 balls, propelling CSK to a daunting total of 206/6.

    In reply, the CSK bowling attack complemented the batting brilliance. Deepak Chahar rattled the Gujarat top order with quick dismissals of Shubman Gill and Wriddhiman Saha.

    Dhoni, known for his exceptional wicketkeeping skills, joined the party by taking a blinder to dismissVijay Shankar off Daryl Mitchells bowling. Mustafizur Rahman and Tushar Deshpande then efficiently restricted the GT batters from scoring runs, picking up two wickets each. The Titans could only manage 143/8 in their 20 overs, handing CSK a dominant victory.

     



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  • IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s hilarious exchange with Dwayne Bravo takes centre stage in Chennai

    IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s hilarious exchange with Dwayne Bravo takes centre stage in Chennai

    Former skipper of the Chennai Super Kings, MS Dhoni, playing in his seventeenth edition of the IPL, didn’t have any role to play with the bat, with his side winning both their games against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and the Gujarat Titans quite comprehensively, by respective margins of six wickets and 63 runs, respectively.

    However, even though the cricketing icon has only played a part in the marquee tournament as a wicketkeeper so far, the fixation and craze revolving him hasn’t diminished one iota, with those at the stadium going absolutely bonkers every time the five-time IPL-winning captain appeared on the big screens attached beyond the boundary ropes. He grabbed a phenomenally athletic catch to get Vijay Shankar dismissed off the bowling of Daryl Mitchell, which left every viewer amazed at his mobility considering his age.

    In a mirthful moment which took place between MS Dhoni and former CSK player and current bowling coach Dwayne Bravo during the post-match ritual of shaking hands with the opposition’s players as well as their own teammates, after Bravo congratulated and hugged CSK’s skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad for the emphatic victory, Dhoni was next in line. However, Dhoni took him by surprise by impulsively trying to attack Bravo on his lower abdomen, which left Bravo in splits.

    Also Read: I enjoyed leading MS Dhoni, he certainly helped me out: Steve Smith

    Sameer Rizvi credits MS Dhoni for debut IPL knock

    20-year-old Sameer Rizvi, the destructive middle-order batter from Uttar Pradesh, made his IPL debut against GT after he was named in the playing XI at the toss. Coming into bat halfway through the 19th over of the innings, he thumped the seasoned wrist-spinner, Rashid Khan, for a six over deep square-leg with an immaculate sweep on his first ball in the IPL. Three balls later, he came down the ground to mistime it for six once again, demonstrating the sheer raw power he possesses.

    Rizvi credited Dhoni for his swift and impactful debut knock of 14(6) in the IPL, mentioning that the talismanic former Indian skipper encouraged him to play his natural game during his cameo against Gujarat Giants. As per Rizvi, Dhoni told him to be his authentic self while with the bat and encouraged him to not go out with any sort of nerves, directing him to play according to the demands of the situation.

    “Bhaiya (Dhoni) told me to play how I generally play since it is all about the actual gameplay. He said, ‘There is nothing different. Skills remain the same, and it’s all just about mindset. Never take any pressure or be nervous, and play as per the situation’,” Rizvi said in a video published on the official website of the IPL.

    Also Read: ‘I am going to go with Shivam Dube’ – Aakash Chopra advocates for inclusion of Shivam Dube in India’s T20 World Cup squad

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  • Twitter reactions: Shivam Dube, bowlers lead CSK to emphatic win over GT in IPL 2024

    Twitter reactions: Shivam Dube, bowlers lead CSK to emphatic win over GT in IPL 2024

    In the seventh match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) clashed with Gujarat Titans (GT) in an exhilarating encounter. The contest saw domination from the home team as they registered a convincing victory by 63 runs.

    Shivam Dube takes CSK to a formidable total

    Winning the toss, Gujarat Titans opted to bowl first, inviting Chennai Super Kings to set the target. The Super Kings got off to a blistering start with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra showcasing their batting prowess. Gaikwad contributed a solid 46 runs off 36 balls, while Ravindra added a quickfire 46 off just 20 deliveries.

    Shivam Dube continued the onslaught with a breathtaking innings of 51 runs off 23 balls, supported by contributions from Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, and Sameer Rizvi. The Super Kings posted a formidable total of 206/6 in their allotted 20 overs.

    CSK bowlers deliver commendable performance

    In response, Gujarat Titans faced a daunting task of chasing down the target set by Chennai Super Kings. However, they faltered under pressure as wickets fell at regular intervals. Wriddhiman Saha, Sai Sudharsan, and David Miller tried to stabilize the innings with their contributions, but the required run rate kept mounting. Despite some resistance, Gujarat Titans could only manage to reach 143/8 in their 20 overs.

    The Super Kings’ bowlers delivered a commendable performance, with Deepak Chahar, Mustafizur Rahman, and Tushar Deshpande claiming crucial wickets. Ravindra Jadeja and Daryl Mitchell also chipped in with valuable contributions with the ball. In the end, the Super Kings emerged victorious, clinching a convincing win by 63 runs. Their dominant performance with both bat and ball secured them a well-deserved triumph, maintaining their strong position in the Indian Premier League 2024.

    Also WATCH: IPL 2024 – MS Dhoni plucks age-defying catch to get rid of Vijay Shankar in CSK vs GT game

    Here is how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: Fans salute Sameer Rizvi for his grand arrival in IPL 2024 with 2 sixes off Rashid Khan during CSK vs GT clash



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  • Twitter reactions: Mustafizur Rahman, Shivam Dube sizzle in CSK’s triumph over RCB in IPL 2024 opener

    Twitter reactions: Mustafizur Rahman, Shivam Dube sizzle in CSK’s triumph over RCB in IPL 2024 opener

    In a thrilling encounter to kick off the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) clashed with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The exciting contest saw an intense battle where CSK eventually won the battle and kept their domination over RCB at their home ground.

    Mustafizur Rahman shines with the ball

    RCB won the toss and elected to bat first, setting the stage for an exciting showdown. The Challengers began their innings with a decent start, posting a total of 173/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis provided a steady foundation, but it was Anuj Rawat‘s explosive knock of 48 runs off 25 balls that propelled them to a competitive total. Dinesh Karthik also made a valuable contribution with 38 runs off 26 balls.

    Among the bowlers, Mustafizur Rahman was the standout performer for Chennai Super Kings, claiming four wickets for 29 runs in his four overs, while Deepak Chahar also chipped in with a crucial wicket.

    Shivam Dube’s finishing skills takes CSK over the line

    Chasing a target of 174 runs for victory, Chennai Super Kings displayed a clinical batting performance, reaching the target with ease in 18.4 overs, finishing at 176/4. Rachin Ravindra‘s explosive knock of 37 runs off 15 balls set the tone for the chase, well supported by contributions from Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, and Shivam Dube.

    For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Cameron Green and Karn Sharma picked up crucial wickets, but they couldn’t contain the Super Kings’ batting onslaught. In the end, it was Chennai Super Kings who emerged victorious, winning the match by 6 wickets. With this win, CSK kick-starts their IPL 2024 campaign on a high note, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru will look to regroup and bounce back stronger in their upcoming fixtures.

    Also WATCH: IPL 2024 – Virat Kohli gives a warm hug to MS Dhoni during CSK vs RCB clash

    Here is how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: IPL 2024 – AR Rahman, Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff and other prominent figures shine bright at the opening ceremony



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  • IPL 2024, CSK vs RCB: Probable Playing XI, Match Preview, Head to head Record | Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru 

    IPL 2024, CSK vs RCB: Probable Playing XI, Match Preview, Head to head Record | Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru 

    The much-awaited clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will mark the opening match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, set to take place in Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium (commonly known as Chepauk Stadium) on Friday (March 22). This encounter carries significant weight as it sets the tone for the entire tournament.

    Both teams will be eager to kick start their campaign with a statement win, and the intensity is expected to be palpable right from the first ball.

    CSK vs RCB: Head to Head Record:

    • CSK and RCB have faced each other 31 times since the inception of the IPL in 2008.
    • CSK have emerged victorious in 21 matches, while RCB have just won 10 times.
    • Out of their five previous encounters, CSK hves emerged victorious on four occasions, while RCB have tasted success only once against of their formidable opponents.
    • In the matches played at Chepauk , CSK leads the head-to-head record with 7 wins out of 8 encounters.

    Chennai Super Kings (CSK) overview

    As IPL 2024 approaches, CSK undergo a significant transition with the young Ruturaj Gaikwad assuming the captaincy reins from the iconic leader MS Dhoni. Despite this change in leadership, the defending champions remain a force to be reckoned with, renowned for their seasoned squad and tactical acumen. CSK presents a formidable combination of seasoned veterans and promising talents, boasting a strong batting lineup, a potent bowling attack, and a dynamic fielding unit. With their well-rounded skill set, CSK are primed to challenge any opposition in the upcoming tournament.

    Also READ: IPL 2024: CSK appoint Ruturaj Gaikwad as their new captain; MS Dhoni to keep wickets

    CSK’s probable playing XI for the IPL 2024 opener against RCB

    1. Ruturaj Gaikwad (c)
    2. Rachin Ravindra
    3. Ajinkya Rahane
    4. Daryl Mitchell
    5. Moeen Ali
    6. Ravindra Jadeja
    7. MS Dhoni (wk)
    8. Shardul Thakur
    9. Deepak Chahar
    10. Tushar Deshpande
    11. Mustafizur Rahman

    Explanation

    • Tailored for Chepauk conditions: This playing XI is specifically tailored to excel in the conditions expected at Chepauk, which traditionally favor spin bowling and controlled pace.
    • Experience and stability: With the presence of experienced players like Gaikwad, Rahane, and Dhoni, the team gains invaluable leadership and stability, crucial in high-pressure situations.
    • Versatile all-rounders: All-rounders like Jadeja and Moeen offer a perfect blend of batting and bowling prowess, adding depth to both departments and providing the team with flexibility in strategy.
    • Bowling variety: The pace duo of Chahar and Mustafizur, along with the inclusion of Shardul and Deshpande, offers a blend of pace, swing, and variation, ensuring potency and adaptability in the bowling lineup.

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) overview

    On the contrary, under the leadership of Faf du Plessis, RCB shoulders the burden of expectations as they strive to transcend previous setbacks and assert themselves in IPL 2024. Armed with a roster replete with talent and potential match-winners, RCB are poised to kickstart their journey on a positive note by triumphing over a formidable adversary such as CSK.

    RCB’s probable playing XI for the IPL 2024 opener against CSK:

    1. Faf du Plessis (c)
    2. Virat Kohli
    3. Cameron Green
    4. Rajat Patidar
    5. Glenn Maxwell
    6. Dinesh Karthik (wk)
    7. Mahipal Lomror
    8. Mayank Dagar
    9. Alzaari Joseph
    10. Yash Dayal
    11. Mohammed Siraj

    Explanation

    • Tailored for Chepauk conditions: RCB’s strategy is adjusted to suit the unique challenges posed by the Chepauk pitch, emphasizing spin bowling and disciplined pace to exploit the slow, turning surfaces.
    • Blend of Experience and Stability: RCB’s batting lineup is anchored by seasoned veterans such as Du Plessis and Kohli, providing stability and leadership to navigate high-pressure situations effectively.
    • Versatile All-rounders for Depth: With players like Maxwell and Lomror, RCB boasts a well-rounded middle-order, offering both batting prowess and bowling support to bolster the team’s depth and adaptability.
    • Bowling Variety for Tactical Flexibility: RCB’s bowling attack showcases a blend of pace and spin options, led by Siraj and Dagar, offering tactical versatility to counter different oppositions and match situations effectively.

    Also READ: IPL 2024: Matthew Hayden, Harbhajan Singh pick winner in Ravindra Jadeja-Glenn Maxwell duel ahead of CSK vs RCB opener

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  • IPL 2024: Harsha Bhogle selects the opening pair for Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

    IPL 2024: Harsha Bhogle selects the opening pair for Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction witnessed all ten teams bolstering areas they deemed necessary to address. While some teams relied on their core from the previous year, others opted to initiate a reset with significant new signings. As the tournament approaches, each team has devised strategies tailored to their specific needs and objectives.

    Opening partnerships crucial in Modern T20

    Given the critical importance of powerful batting in the modern T20 game, every team will prioritize solidifying their opening partnership. While most teams may stick with what worked for them last year, there are exceptions such as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Unfortunately, they will need to adjust their opening combination due to a major setback caused by the injury to attacking batter Devon Conway.

    Absence of Devon Conway

    Conway’s impact over the last two years alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad for CSK has been truly profound. Their partnership has flourished, amassing an impressive 1208 runs in just 22 innings, with an average of 54.9 and a striking rate of 150.4. Notably, they also achieved the franchise’s best-ever partnership at the top of the order, scoring 182 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the 2022 edition of the IPL. Their presence at the crease brings a sense of calmness to the dressing room and the fans. However, ahead of the 2024 IPL, this tranquility was disrupted by Conway’s injury, which has ruled him out of the tournament until May.

    Also READ: Chennai Super Kings (CSK)’s best playing XI for IPL 2024

    Harsha Bhogle names a potential opening pair for CSK

    Ahead of the upcoming season, speaking on Cricbuzz show, cricket analyst Harsha Bhogle has suggested his choice for Gaikwad’s opening partner in the absence of Conway. Despite their differences in experience and playing style, Bhogle believed there is a suitable replacement in Rachin Ravindra. Expressing his confidence in Ravindra’s abilities, Bhogle highlighted his impressive performance in white-ball cricket and even noted his recent century in Test cricket. With Ravindra flourishing in the conducive environment at CSK, Bhogle advocated for pairing him with Gaikwad as CSK’s opening combination for the IPL 2024 season.

    “In the absence of Conway, there is, what I believe, a like-for-like replacement even though they are vastly different in terms of year and experience. I won’t be surprised at all if, in CSK, Rachin Ravindra comes out and tells the IPL, ‘Come look at me,’ because he has done very well in white-ball cricket. He has gone up and got 100 in Test match cricket. He’s playing the best cricket of his life, and he’s playing in a wonderful environment at CSK. So, my opening combination would be Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra,” Bhogle said.

    CSK’s IPL 2024 campaign begins

    Defending champions CSK will kick off their IPL 2024 campaign against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on March 22. As they embark on their title defense, CSK will aim to overcome the setback of Conway’s absence and maintain their legacy of success in the tournament.

    Also READ: IPL 2024: 3 potential opening partners for Ruturaj Gaikwad in the absence of Devon Conway for CSK

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  • MS Dhoni’s friend Paramjit Singh gives major update on his IPL retirement plans

    MS Dhoni’s friend Paramjit Singh gives major update on his IPL retirement plans

    Legendary Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain and former India captain MS Dhoni is expected to play his last season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the upcoming season. Notably, the fans will get to witness one of the greatest rivalries of the tournament as CSK take on Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the curtain raiser of IPL 2024 on March 22 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

    While the entire nation is preparing for Dhoni’s swansong, his childhood friend Paramjit Singh, who played a major role in getting the cricketer his first kit during his formative years, feels the IPL 2024 won’t be his last season. He further said that the Ranchi-born cricketer is likely to play one more season due to his exceptional fitness.

    Also Read: Fact Check: MS Dhoni’s old photo falsely linked to farmers’ protest, photo goes viral

    “I do not think this will be his (Dhoni’s) last season. He is still fit. I think he will play one or two more seasons. He will definitely play one more season. The reason is he is fit,” said Paramjit in a viral video.

    Recently, Dhoni was also spotted sporting Paramjit’s shop’s name sticker ‘Prime Sports’ on his bat while practicing in the nets ahead of IPL 2024. Speaking about Dhoni’s heartfelt gesture, Paramjit described their bond as ‘Yaari No 1’.

    Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings will head into IPL 2024 as defending champions as they clinched their fifth title in 2023 by defeating Gujarat Titans in a thrilling final. Following CSK’s win, Dhoni became the joint-most successful skipper in the history of the league along with Rohit Sharma who has also led Mumbai Indians to five title victories.

    MS Dhoni batted a strike rate of 182.46 in IPL 2023

    Also Read: MS Dhoni, Dwayne Bravo play Dandiya in Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant pre-wedding celebrations

    Dhoni battled through a knee injury throughout the season and sent his fans into a frenzy every time he walked onto the pitch. He looked at his vintage best scoring 104 runs from 12 innings in the previous season at a strike rate of 182.46 clobbering three fours and ten sixes.

    Following CSK’s historic triumph, he even promised his fans to return in IPL 2024 as a return gift for all the love they had showered on him throughout the 2023 edition. Hence, CSK’s large fanbase will look to give their beloved ‘Thala’ a rousing farewell if he decides to hang up his boots at the end of the season.

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  • BCCI announces the schedule for first leg of IPL 2024; CSK to take on RCB in the opening match

    BCCI announces the schedule for first leg of IPL 2024; CSK to take on RCB in the opening match

    The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the schedule for the first leg of the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. The tournament is set to kick off with a thrilling clash between two cricketing powerhouses, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

    IPL 2024 begins on March 22

    The opening match of IPL 2024 is scheduled to take place on March 22, with CSK locking horns with RCB at the M. Chidambaram stadium in Chennai.

    The first leg of IPL 2024 comprises of 21 matches scheduled between March 22 and April 7. The IPL final is slated for May 26, leaving just a five-day gap before the start of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, set to be hosted in the USA and the Caribbean Islands from June 1.

    The second phase of the tournament’s schedule is anticipated to be released following the release of the dates for the national elections by the Election Commission of India, expected to be held in April and May.

    The initial leg features four double-headers, including two matches on the opening weekend. In total, 74 matches will be played in the IPL 2024, inclusive of four playoff encounters.

    Also READ: Gujarat Titans’ pacer Mohammed Shami ruled out of IPL 2024

    Here’s the schedule for the first leg of IPL 2024:

    Cricket enthusiasts and fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the start of the tournament, which promises to deliver high-octane cricketing action and entertainment.

    The IPL has become one of the most prestigious and widely followed T20 cricket leagues globally, attracting top cricketing talent from around the world. With its unique blend of sporting excellence and entertainment, the IPL has captured the imagination of cricket fans and has emerged as a major sporting spectacle on the global stage.

    Also READ: Star Sports expert panel pick all-time best IPL 16; Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers & MS Dhoni make the cut

    As the countdown to IPL 2024 begins, fans can expect an exhilarating tournament featuring intense rivalries, spectacular performances, and unforgettable moments on the cricket field. The initial leg of the IPL will set the stage for what promises to be another thrilling season of T20 cricket at its best.



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  • India legend Sunil Gavaskar picks the most overpriced buy of IPL 2024

    India legend Sunil Gavaskar picks the most overpriced buy of IPL 2024

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a stage for glitzy auctions and jaw-dropping deals, and the 2024 edition took extravagance to new heights with certain players breaking all previous records for the most expensive IPL deals. Notably, Mitchell Starc (24.75 crore), Pat Cummins (INR 20.50 crore) and Daryl Mitchell (INR 14 crore) were the top three costliest buys in the IPL 2024 auction.

    As anticipation is at an all-time high and fans eagerly await the 17th edition of the tournament, cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar has shared his insights on what he believes is the ‘most overpriced buy’ of the season.

    Sunil Gavaskar picks the most overpriced buy of IPL 2024

    Former India skipper Gavaskar recently pointed to Australian pacer Starc as the player who may not justify the hefty price tag attached to his name in the Kolkata Knight Riders‘ squad. Gavaskar, known for his candid opinions, did not mince his words when expressing his thoughts on Starc’s value for money.

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    Performance criteria set by Gavaskar

    Gavaskar laid down specific criteria for Starc to justify his price tag. According to the cricketing legend, Starc must deliver match-winning spells in at least four out of the 14 matches he plays. The real test, Gavaskar suggests, will be against formidable teams like the Mumbai Indians (MI), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), all known for their top-class batting lineups.

    “Over the top, to be absolutely frank. I don’t think anybody is worth that kind of money. If Starc can make an impact and win maybe four out of the 14 matches that he plays, then you can say money’s worth. Then if he makes contributions in the other games – absolutely fantastic,” Gavaskar told Star Sports.

    “He has got to bowl match-winning spells in at least four out of the 14 matches, and maybe the crucial matches against the Mumbai Indians, the Chennai Super Kings and RCB, because these three have top-class batting lineups. Bowl those teams out and you could even then say – money’s worth,” he added.

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