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Tag: Indian Premier League (IPL)

  • WATCH: Ed Sheeran displays his cricket skills at Rajasthan Royals camp donning Shane Warne’s jersey

    WATCH: Ed Sheeran displays his cricket skills at Rajasthan Royals camp donning Shane Warne’s jersey

    Ed Sheeran, the global music sensation, is known for his soulful melodies and chart-topping hits. But during his recent visit to India for the ‘Mathematics’ tour, he showcased a different kind of talent—his cricketing skills. The British singer, who has been captivating audiences across the country, took a break from his musical journey to spend time with the Rajasthan Royals, one of the most beloved franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). What followed was a heartwarming interaction, a batting session, and a touching tribute to the late Shane Warne, the legendary cricketer who once led the Royals to glory.

    A royal welcome with gifts and smiles

    Sheeran’s visit to the Rajasthan Royals camp was nothing short of special. The singer was greeted by Riyan Parag and Tushar Deshpande, who presented him with a custom Rajasthan Royals jersey. But this wasn’t just any jersey—it bore the name and number of Warne, the iconic spinner who captained the Royals to their maiden IPL title in 2008. Sheeran’s face lit up with joy as he held the jersey, a testament to his deep admiration for Warne.

    The gifts didn’t stop there. Sheeran was also handed a cricket bat, a symbol of the sport that unites millions in India. The singer, known for his humility and down-to-earth nature, seemed genuinely touched by the gesture.

    From mic to pitch: Ed Sheeran’s batting debut

    The highlight of the day came when Sheeran stepped onto the field for a batting session. With Parag bowling to him, the singer showcased his cricketing prowess, much to the delight of everyone present. Sheeran’s swing was smooth, and he even managed to hit a six with a well-executed sweep shot.

    Parag, who was bowling to the singer, couldn’t hide his surprise. “He’s got a good swing. I’m pleasantly surprised,” the young cricketer remarked. It was clear that Sheeran wasn’t just a music icon but also a sports enthusiast who could hold his own on the pitch.

    As the session came to an end, Sheeran returned the favour by gifting Parag and Deshpande jerseys from Ipswich Town, the English football club of which he is a part owner. The exchange symbolized the beautiful intersection of sports and music, two worlds that Sheeran effortlessly bridges.

    Here’s the video:

    Also READ: IPL 2025: Is Virat Kohli returning as RCB captain? COO Rajesh Menon clears speculation

    Sheeran’s bond with Shane Warne: A friendship beyond borders

    The tribute to Warne held a deeper meaning for Sheeran. The singer shared a close friendship with the cricketing legend, who passed away in 2022. Sheeran had previously paid homage to Warne during his concert at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2023, where he sang in memory of his late friend.

    “Shane was an incredible human to me and every single person that he came across, and I’ve got such wonderful stories of him. People that he didn’t even know have wonderful stories of him—he gave so much of his time and energy and love. He was such a great bloke,” Sheeran once said for the legendary player.

    Warne’s legacy lives on in the hearts of cricket fans worldwide, and Sheeran’s gesture of donning the Warne 23 jersey was a touching reminder of the bond they shared. The Royals, under Warne’s leadership, clinched the inaugural IPL title in 2008. As the franchise aims to reclaim the trophy in the coming seasons, Sheeran’s visit served as a source of inspiration. The singer’s love for cricket and his connection to Warne added a layer of emotion to the interaction, making it a memorable moment for everyone involved.

    Also READ: Sanjiv Goenka outbids an IPL rival to acquire Manchester Originals for a record price in The Hundred – Reports



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  • Breakdown of Yuzvendra Chahal’s IPL salary since debut

    Breakdown of Yuzvendra Chahal’s IPL salary since debut

    Yuzvendra Chahal, a prominent figure in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has recently been at the center of controversy due to rumors surrounding his divorce to choreographer Dhanashree Verma. Speculation about their potential divorce intensified when both unfollowed each other on social media, and Chahal deleted all photos of Dhanashree from his Instagram account. Amidst this turmoil, he shared a cryptic message hinting at personal struggles, stating, “Hard work spotlights the character of people. You know your journey. You know your pain.”

    Despite these challenges, Chahal’s financial trajectory in the IPL is remarkable. Chahal’s journey from INR 10 lakh to INR 18 crore epitomizes his growth and impact in the IPL, underscoring his crucial role as a reliable wicket-taker while he navigates personal challenges off the field.

    Yuzvendra Chahal: From humble beginnings to stardom

    Chahal made his IPL debut in 2011 with the Mumbai Indians, but it was during his tenure with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) from 2014 to 2017 that he began to make a name for himself. His initial salary of INR 10 lakh reflected his status as an emerging talent. However, as he developed into a match-winner, his value skyrocketed.

    In 2018, after showcasing consistent performances, Chahal’s salary jumped to INR 6 crore, a figure that remained unchanged through 2021. This period marked a significant phase in his career as he became one of RCB’s key players, contributing crucial wickets and often turning matches in their favour.

    Also READ: Breakdown of Mitchell Marsh’s IPL salary since debut

    A new chapter with Rajasthan Royals

    In 2022, Chahal transitioned to the Rajasthan Royals (RR), where he continued to excel. His salary increased slightly to INR 6.50 crore, reflecting his growing reputation as one of the league’s premier spinners. His performances during this period were instrumental in RR’s success, further solidifying his place in the team.

    The consistency of Chahal’s performances earned him retention at the same salary for both 2023 and 2024 seasons. He became a fan favorite at RR, known not just for his bowling prowess but also for his engaging personality on social media.

    The record-breaking auction

    The IPL auction in late 2024 brought about a seismic shift in Chahal’s career. At the mega auction for IPL 2025, he was signed by Punjab Kings for an astonishing INR 18 crore, making him the most expensive spinner in IPL history. This monumental leap from INR 6.50 crore to INR 18 crore underscores not only his value as a player but also the increasing financial stakes within the league.

    Year Team Salary
    2011 Mumbai Indians INR 10 lakh
    2014 Royal Challengers Bengaluru INR 10 lakh
    2015 Royal Challengers Bengaluru INR 10 lakh
    2016 Royal Challengers Bengaluru INR 10 lakh
    2017 Royal Challengers Bengaluru INR 10 lakh
    2018 Royal Challengers Bengaluru INR 6 crore
    2019 Royal Challengers Bengaluru INR 6 crore
    2020 Royal Challengers Bengaluru INR 6 crore
    2021 Royal Challengers Bengaluru INR 6 crore
    2022 Rajasthan Royals INR 6.50 crore
    2023 Rajasthan Royals INR 6.50 crore
    2024 Rajasthan Royals INR 6.50 crore
    2025 Punjab Kings INR 18 crore

    Chahal’s net worth and future prospects

    With earnings from IPL alone exceeding INR 68 crore throughout his career, Chahal’s net worth is reflective of both his on-field success and off-field endorsements. As he embarks on this new chapter with Punjab Kings, fans are eager to see how he will adapt and perform under new pressures.

    Chahal’s journey from a relatively unknown player to one of the highest-paid cricketers in the IPL is not just a testament to his skills but also highlights the evolving landscape of cricket where performance directly translates into financial rewards.

    Also READ: Breakdown of Robin Uthappa’s IPL salary since debut

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  • IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players SRH can retain as per the current ‘3+1’ rule

    IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players SRH can retain as per the current ‘3+1’ rule

    Sunrisers Hyderabad, a franchise that has consistently showcased its potential in the Indian Premier League, delivered a dominant and fearless performance in the recently concluded IPL 2024. Their journey throughout the tournament was marked by exceptional displays of skill, determination and teamwork, culminating in a well-deserved finish as runners-up.

    SRH’s performance in IPL 2024 was a testament to their ability to rise to the occasion and compete at the highest level. Their aggressive batting approach, combined with a disciplined bowling attack, proved to be a formidable combination. The team’s ability to adapt to different conditions and execute their game plans effectively was a key factor in their success.

    As SRH looks ahead to the upcoming IPL season mega auction, they are expected to retain a formidable core of players ahead of the upcoming IPL season. With a strategic approach, SRH is likely to prioritize players who have consistently delivered impressive performances and have been integral to the team’s success.

    Anticipating the mega auction for IPL 2025

    With the IPL 2025 season looming, the highly anticipated mega auction is set to take place, marking the conclusion of the current cycle. While franchises have historically been permitted to retain a maximum of four players, there are ongoing discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the possibility of expanding this limit to eight. This auction will serve as a pivotal opportunity for teams to revamp their squads and assemble the most formidable combinations to vie for the coveted IPL championship.

    With the possibility of retaining more players, teams will have greater flexibility in deciding which players to prioritize. This could lead to some interesting decisions as franchises weigh the benefits of retaining established stars against the potential of investing in promising young talent.

    Also READ: Virat Kohli stuns everyone by naming this team his surprise pick as favourite IPL rival

    Sunrisers Hyderabad’s probable retention of key players in IPL 2025

    Pat Cummins: The Premier Fast Bowler

    Pat Cummins, the Australian pace sensation and captain, is set to be SRH’s first retention. His exceptional skills and ability to deliver consistently high-quality performances have made him a prized asset for the franchise. Cummins’ ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with his lethal pace and accuracy, has made him a nightmare for batsmen. His presence in the SRH bowling attack provides a significant boost to their chances of success.

    • Lethal pace and accuracy: Cummins’ ability to consistently bowl at high speeds and hit the right length makes him a nightmare for batters.
    • Swing bowling prowess: His ability to swing the ball both ways, especially in the powerplay, gives him a significant advantage over other fast bowlers.
    • Leadership and versatility: Cummins the World Cup-winning SRH captain can be a useful batter, providing valuable runs down the order and was also the captain of the side recently in IPL 2024.

    Abhishek Sharma: The Rising Star

    Abhishek Sharma, the young and talented left-handed batsman, is another likely candidate for retention. Sharma has showcased immense potential and has been a valuable contributor to SRH’s batting lineup. His ability to play aggressive shots while maintaining a solid technique has made him a force to be reckoned with. Sharma’s versatility, which allows him to contribute both with the bat and the ball, makes him a valuable asset for the team.

    • Explosive batting: Sharma’s aggressive approach and ability to hit sixes at will make him a valuable asset in the powerplay and middle overs.
    • Versatility: He can also contribute with the ball, providing a useful spin bowling option.
    • Youth and potential: Sharma is a young player with immense potential for growth and development.

    Bhuvneshwar Kumar: The Experienced Swing King

    Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the seasoned swing bowler, is expected to be retained for the third time by SRH. Kumar’s ability to consistently extract swing and seam movement, even in challenging conditions, has made him a vital part of the SRH bowling attack. His experience and expertise have been invaluable in guiding the team’s bowling unit. Kumar’s presence in the team provides a sense of stability and reliability.

    • Swing bowling expertise: Kumar’s ability to extract swing and seam movement, even in challenging conditions, makes him a valuable asset in the powerplay and death overs.
    • Economy rate: Kumar is known for his ability to bowl tight spells and control the run rate.
    • Experience: His experience and expertise can be invaluable in guiding the team’s bowling unit.

    Abdul Samad: The Promising Young Talent

    Abdul Samad, the talented young batsman, is likely to be the one foreign player retained by SRH. Samad’s explosive hitting abilities and his ability to finish innings strongly have made him a valuable asset for the team. His aggressive approach and his ability to handle pressure situations have impressed many. Samad’s potential for growth and development makes him a promising prospect for the future.

    • Explosive hitting: Samad’s ability to hit sixes at will makes him a valuable finisher in the lower order.
    • Pressure handling skills: He has shown a remarkable ability to handle pressure situations and deliver when it matters most.
    • Youth and potential: Samad is a young player with immense potential for growth and development.

    SRH’s path to IPL glory

    Sunrisers Hyderabad, having consistently shown their mettle in the IPL, can further strengthen their position and aim for the coveted title by strategically addressing key areas. To achieve this, SRH should prioritize acquiring a reliable middle-order batter to bolster their batting lineup and a quality spin bowler to add variety and control to their bowling attack. Maintaining a strong core of players who have been instrumental to their success is crucial, and investing in player development programs can help unlock the full potential of their young talent.

    Strategic auction planning, focusing on identifying target players and setting a realistic budget, is essential. Improving fielding standards through dedicated drills and the guidance of specialized coaches can also significantly impact the team’s performance. Cultivating a positive and supportive team culture, encouraging team bonding, and maintaining a strong sense of camaraderie can create a conducive environment for success. By implementing these strategies, Sunrisers Hyderabad can enhance their squad, improve their performance, and increase their chances of lifting the IPL trophy in the future.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Auction: 4 Players MI can retain as per the current ‘3+1’ rule

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  • IPL 2024: Ricky Ponting, Sourav Ganguly left fuming at Sanju Samson’s tactics during RR vs DC clash

    IPL 2024: Ricky Ponting, Sourav Ganguly left fuming at Sanju Samson’s tactics during RR vs DC clash

    The decision by Sanju Samson to substitute Rovman Powell during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Friday garnered attention from DC’s head coach Ricky Ponting and Director of Cricket Sourav Ganguly.

    Ricky Ponting and Sourav Ganguly’s concerns

    This move occurred after the second ball of the first over of Delhi’s innings when Samson signalled for Powell to replace Shubham Dubey. It’s worth noting that both Powell and Dubey were listed as substitute players by skipper Samson before the match began. Ponting, observing from the dugout, immediately raised concerns and engaged in a discussion with an off-field match official regarding why Rajasthan had four overseas players on the field when they had originally named only three in the playing eleven.

    Debate on Rajasthan Royals’ tactics

    The original three overseas players named in the Rajasthan playing eleven against Delhi were Jos Buttler, Shimron Hetmyer and Trent Boult. Pacer Nandre Burger replaced Hetmyer as an impact substitute in the second essay, setting a 186-run target for Delhi. While Ponting attempted to address the matter patiently from the dugout, Ganguly, seated behind him, also intervened and discussed the issue with the official.

    Also READ: IPL 2024: Social media users target Hardik Pandya’s wife amid MI’s successive defeats

    Overseas player rules in IPL matches

    According to overseas playing conditions, rule 1.2.5 specifies that no team can have more than four overseas players in their team. However, rule 1.2.6 states that if all four players have been named in the XI, an overseas player can only enter as a substitute for another. After extensive discussion, it was determined that there was nothing wrong with RR’s tactics, and the debate was resolved.

    Impact of the substitution in the DC vs RR match

    In the match, a maximum of four overseas players are allowed to participate, and no more than four can field at once. Therefore, Samson’s Rajasthan were well within their rights to utilize Powell on the field. Powell did not bowl or bat in the match, which Rajasthan managed to win by 12 runs. Impact substitute Burger took two wickets for 29 runs in three overs, while Boult conceded 29 runs without taking any wickets in three overs. Buttler scored 11 runs, and Hetmyer contributed 14 unbeaten runs off seven balls.

    Also READ: IPL 2024: Surya Kumar Yadav makes a special revelation on Riyan Parag after his blistering knock in the RR vs DC clash



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