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Tag: Shreyas Iyer

  • Top 5 fastest centuries in T20 cricket ft. Abhishek Sharma

    Top 5 fastest centuries in T20 cricket ft. Abhishek Sharma

    In the fast-paced world of T20 cricket, centuries are not just milestones; they are statements of intent, showcasing the explosive power and skill of the batsman. Recently, Punjab’s Abhishek Sharma electrified the cricketing community by scoring a blistering century off just 28 balls during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024. This remarkable feat not only highlighted his talent but also placed him among the elite in T20 history.

    Abhishek Sharma’s carnage in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024

    Abhishek’s phenomenal innings against Meghalaya was a game-changer. Chasing a target of 143 runs, he propelled Punjab to victory in just 9.3 overs, finishing with an astonishing 11 sixes and several boundaries. This performance came after a lacklustre start to the tournament, where he managed only one fifty in six innings. His explosive century not only equalled Urvil Patel‘s record for the fastest T20 hundred by an Indian but also showcased his potential as a future star in Indian cricket.

    Also READ: Twitter reactions: Abhishek Sharma equals fastest T20 century by an Indian, also shatters Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav’s record

    Top 5 fastest tons in T20 history

    1. Sahil Chauhan – 27 Balls (Estonia vs. Cyprus, 2024)

    Sahil Chauhan holds the record for the fastest century in T20 cricket, achieving this remarkable milestone in just 27 balls against Cyprus on June 17, 2024. His innings included an incredible display of power hitting, culminating in a total of 18 sixes. Chauhan’s record-breaking performance not only led Estonia to victory but also set a new benchmark for T20 batting.

    (Image source: X)
    1. Urvil Patel – 28 Balls (Gujarat vs. Tripura, 2024)

    Just days before Abhishek’s feat, Urvil made headlines by scoring a century off 28 balls against Tripura during the SMAT. This performance marked him as one of India’s most promising talents and solidified his place in T20 history as he surpassed previous records held by other Indian cricketers.

    Urvil Patel 28 ball century
    (Image source: X)
    1. Abhishek Sharma – 28 Balls (Punjab vs. Meghalaya, 2024)

    Matching Urvil’s record, Abhishek’s explosive batting helped Punjab secure a swift victory against Meghalaya. His ability to hit boundaries at will and maintain an aggressive approach under pressure showcased his maturity and skill as a young cricketer.

    Abhishek-Sharma 28 ball 100
    (Image source: X)
    1. Chris Gayle – 30 Balls (Royal Challengers Bangalore vs. Pune Warriors, 2013)

    No discussion of T20 batting records would be complete without mentioning Chris Gayle, often referred to as the “Universe Boss.” His iconic innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore against Pune Warriors in the IPL saw him reach his century in just 30 balls—a record that stood tall for years before being challenged by newer players.

    Chris Gayle 30 ball century
    (Image source: X)
    1. Rishabh Pant – 32 Balls (Delhi vs. Himachal Pradesh, 2018)

    Rishabh Pant‘s blistering century against Himachal Pradesh in 2018 was not only a testament to his explosive batting style but also marked him as one of India’s finest young talents. Scoring off just 32 balls, Pant’s innings remains memorable for its aggressive intent and skilful execution.

    Rishabh Pant 32 ball
    (Image source: X)

    The landscape of T20 cricket continues to evolve, with players like Abhishek leading the charge into a new era characterized by aggressive batting and record-breaking performances. As these young talents redefine what is possible within the format, fans can only anticipate more thrilling displays of power hitting and skilful batting in future matches.

    Also READ: Fastest T20 century by an Indian: Urvil Patel breaks Rishabh Pant’s record

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  • Punjab Kings IPL 2025 Squad: Complete players list of PBKS after the mega auction

    Punjab Kings IPL 2025 Squad: Complete players list of PBKS after the mega auction

    Punjab Kings (PBKS) have assembled a competitive squad for the IPL 2025 season following a high-stakes mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The franchise secured a mix of proven performers, exciting young talents, and versatile all-rounders, signalling their intent to make a strong bid for their maiden IPL title.

    Punjab Kings IPL 2025 Squad

    Key players:

    • Shreyas Iyer: A dependable batter and dynamic leader, Iyer will aim to guide PBKS to new heights.
    • Yuzvendra Chahal: The IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker, Chahal brings experience and control to the spin department.
    • Arshdeep Singh: Retained as a cornerstone of the bowling unit, Arshdeep is expected to lead the pace attack with precision.
    • Marcus Stoinis & Glenn Maxwell: These two Australian powerhouses offer all-round capabilities that add balance to the squad.

    PBKS’s complete squad:

    Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Shashank Singh, Prabhsimran Singh, Harpreet Brar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Yash Thakur, Marco Jansen, Josh Inglis, Lockie Ferguson, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harnoor Pannu, Kuldeep Sen, Priyansh Arya, Aaron Hardie, Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge, Xavier Bartlett, Pyla Avinash, Pravin Dubey, Nehal Wadhera.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Auction – Who is Priyansh Arya? The young prodigy signing of Punjab Kings

    Key Auction Highlights:

    1. Strengthening the bowling unit:
      PBKS invested heavily in their bowling attack, adding international stars like Marco Jansen and Lockie Ferguson alongside emerging talents like Yash Thakur and Vijaykumar Vyshak.
    2. Focus on all-round balance:
      Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell will bring stability, with Maxwell’s explosive batting and off-spin providing an edge in critical matches.
    3. Youthful additions:
      The inclusion of promising players like Harnoor Pannu, Priyansh Arya and Musheer Khan underscores PBKS’s commitment to developing young talent.

    PBKS’s quest for IPL glory

    With a blend of seasoned campaigners and fresh faces, Punjab Kings have built a squad capable of mounting a serious challenge in IPL 2025. The presence of leaders like Shreyas Iyer and match-winners such as Glenn Maxwell makes them a formidable contender.

    Fans are optimistic about PBKS’s chances as they prepare to enter the season with renewed determination and a well-rounded team.

    Also READ: Gujarat Titans IPL 2025 Squad – Complete players list of GT after the mega auction

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  • IPL 2025 [Day 1]: Complete list of players sold at the mega auction with their price

    IPL 2025 [Day 1]: Complete list of players sold at the mega auction with their price

    The first day of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction unfolded with grandeur at the Abadi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, November 24. With a vast pool of 577 players available for selection, only the top-tier names from the first 12 sets were in focus during the initial phase of the two-day auction. By the end of Day 1, 84 players had gone under the hammer, setting the stage for a high-stakes bidding war between franchises.

    Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer shatter records

    Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant stole the spotlight by becoming the most expensive player in IPL history. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured his services for a staggering INR 27 crore, breaking all previous records. Pant’s explosive batting, leadership potential, and adaptability made him the most sought-after player of the auction, highlighting his immense value in the shortest format.

    Before Pant’s record-breaking deal, Shreyas Iyer briefly held the title of the highest-paid player in IPL history. Punjab Kings (PBKS) acquired the stylish middle-order batter for INR 26.75 crore. Known for his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed, Iyer’s addition brings balance and stability to PBKS’s batting lineup. Reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made headlines by re-signing all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer for a hefty INR amount of over 20 crores. Iyer’s versatility as a hard-hitting batter and a dependable seam-bowling option proved too valuable for KKR to let go. His performances in previous seasons were instrumental in KKR’s success, prompting the franchise to break the bank for him.

    Indian bowlers command high prices: Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh

    Indian bowlers were in high demand, with Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh each fetching INR 18 crore. Punjab Kings (PBKS) acquired both bowlers, solidifying their bowling lineup. Chahal, the IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker, and Arshdeep, one of the most promising left-arm pacers in the league, are expected to play crucial roles in PBKS’s title aspirations.

    Day 1 of the IPL 2025 auction showcased the growing value of Indian players in the league. High-profile acquisitions like Pant, Iyer, and Iyer underscored the premium franchises are willing to pay for proven performers and game-changers. As the auction progresses, the focus will shift to uncovering hidden gems and finalizing squads for the highly anticipated season ahead.

    Also READ: IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, Australia, USA & other countries

    Complete list of players sold at the IPL 2025 mega auction with their price

    1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

    • Devon Conway – INR 6.25 CR
    • Rahul Tripathi – INR 3.4 CR
    • Rachin Ravindra (RTM) – INR 4 CR
    • R. Ashwin – INR 9.75 CR
    • Khaleel Ahmed – INR 4.8 CR
    • Noor Ahmad – INR 10 CR
    • Sameer Rizvi – INR 95L
    • Vijay Shankar – INR 1.2 CR

    2. Delhi Capitals (DC)

    • Mitchell Starc – INR 11.75 CR
    • KL Rahul – INR 14 CR
    • Harry Brook – INR 6.25 CR
    • Jake Fraser-McGurk (RTM) – INR 9 CR
    • Karun Nair – INR 50L
    • T Natarajan – INR 10.75 CR
    • Mohit Sharma – INR 2.2 CR
    • Ashutosh Sharma – INR 3.8 CR

    3. Gujarat Titans (GT)

    • Kagiso Rabada – INR 10.75 CR
    • Jos Buttler – INR 15.75 CR
    • Mohammed Siraj – INR 12.25 CR
    • Prasidh Krishna – INR 9.5 CR
    • Nishant Sindhu – INR 30L
    • Kumar Kushagra – INR 65L
    • Manav Suthar – INR 30L

    4. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

    • Venkatesh Iyer – INR 23.75 CR
    • Quinton de Kock – INR 3.6 CR
    • Anrich Nortje – INR 6.5 CR
    • Rahmanullah Gurbaz – INR 2 CR
    • Angkrish Raghuvanshi – INR 3 CR
    • Vaibhav Arora – INR 1.8 CR
    • Mayank Markande – INR 30L

    5. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

    • Rishabh Pant – INR 27 CR
    • David Miller – INR 7.5 CR
    • Aiden Markram – INR 2 CR
    • Mitchell Marsh – INR 3.4 CR
    • Avesh Khan – INR 9.75 CR
    • Abdul Samad – INR 4.2 CR
    • Aryan Juyal – INR 30L

    6. Mumbai Indians (MI)

    • Trent Boult – INR 12.5 CR
    • Naman Dhir (RTM) – INR 5.25 CR
    • Robin Minz – INR 65L
    • Karn Sharma – INR 50L

    7. Punjab Kings (PBKS)

    • Arshdeep Singh (RTM) – INR 18 CR
    • Shreyas Iyer – INR 26.75 CR
    • Yuzvendra Chahal – INR 18 CR
    • Marcus Stoinis – INR 11 CR
    • Glenn Maxwell – INR 4.2 CR
    • Nehal Wadhera – INR 4.2 CR
    • Harpreet Brar – INR 1.5 CR
    • Vijaykumar Vyshak – INR 1.8 CR
    • Yash Thakur – INR 1.6 CR
    • Vishnu Vinod – INR 95L

    8. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

    • Jofra Archer – INR 12.5 CR
    • Wanindu Hasaranga – INR 5.25 CR
    • Maheesh Theekshana – INR 4.4 CR
    • Mahipal Lomror – INR 1.7 CR
    • Akash Madhwal – INR 1.2 CR
    • Kumar Kartikeya – INR 30L

    9. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

    • Liam Livingstone – INR 8.75 CR
    • Phil Salt – INR 11.5 CR
    • Jitesh Sharma – INR 11 CR
    • Josh Hazlewood – INR 12.5 CR
    • Anuj Rawat – INR 30L
    • Rasikh Salam Dar – INR 6 CR
    • Suyash Sharma – INR 2.6 CR

    10. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)

    • Mohammed Shami – INR 10 CR
    • Harshal Patel – INR 8 CR
    • Rahul Chahar – INR 3.2 CR
    • Adam Zampa – INR 2.4 CR
    • Atharva Taide – INR 30L
    • Abhinav Manohar – INR 3.2 CR
    • Simarjeet Singh – INR 1.5 CR
    • Ishan Kishan – INR 11.25 CR

    Also READ: From Eoin Morgan to Suresh Raina: Here’s the full list of cricket experts for IPL 2025 mega auction

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  • Cricket Weekly Roundup: From beginning of Women’s T20 World Cup to Mumbai bagging Irani Cup 2024

    Cricket Weekly Roundup: From beginning of Women’s T20 World Cup to Mumbai bagging Irani Cup 2024

    This week’s cricket update brings a captivating mix of events and major announcements that have grabbed fans’ attention. From the kickoff of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 to Mumbai’s triumph in the Irani Cup 2024, the excitement within the cricketing world remains unwavering. With fierce battles among top teams and prominent captains stepping down, this summary captures the key cricket headlines. Join us as we explore the week’s most memorable moments!

    Let’s have a look at the major highlights

    Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 begins

    The Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 has officially commenced, bringing together the top teams in women’s cricket to compete for the coveted title. Hosted in the United Arab Emirates, this tournament showcases the rising talent and competitive spirit of women’s cricket on a global stage. With teams like Australia, England, India, and New Zealand vying for supremacy, fans are in for thrilling matches filled with exceptional performances. As players aim to make their mark and inspire the next generation, the tournament promises to deliver exciting cricket, memorable moments, and a celebration of women’s sportsmanship and athleticism.

    Mumbai wins Irani Cup 2024

    Mumbai have clinched the Irani Trophy for the 15th time, marking their first victory in this prestigious tournament in 27 years and reaffirming their dominance as a powerhouse in Indian cricket. After being put to bat first, Mumbai found themselves in a precarious position at 37 for 3, struggling against the Rest of India (ROI) bowlers who capitalized on the swinging conditions. However, the experienced duo of Ajinkya Rahane and Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings, forming a crucial partnership that turned the tide for Mumbai.

    Sarfaraz Khan then entered the fray, delivering a stunning performance with a remarkable score of 222 runs, propelling Mumbai to a staggering total of 537. With a significant first-innings lead established, ROI needed a strong response, and they started well with Abhimanyu Easwaran leading the charge alongside Dhruv Jurel. However, a top-edged sweep led to Easwaran’s dismissal, and the momentum quickly shifted as the remaining batters struggled against Mumbai’s bowling attack, resulting in a dramatic collapse. This victory not only showcases Mumbai’s resilience and depth in talent but also celebrates a long-awaited triumph in the Irani Trophy, setting a benchmark for excellence in Indian domestic cricket.

    Babar Azam resigns as Pakistan white-ball captain

    Pakistan men’s cricket team captain, Babar Azam, has recently revealed his decision to step down from the white-ball captaincy following a disappointing run for the team. The announcement came on Tuesday night (October 1), with Babar stating that he wishes to concentrate more on his performance as a player and reduce the burden that comes with leading the side.

    India versus Bangladesh T20I series to begin

    After whitewashing Bangladesh in the 2-match Test series, India are now focused to take on the neighboring nation in the T20I leg. The three-match series starts on October 6 in Gwalior. Notably, a relatively young side will take on Bangladesh in the T20I battle as many Test regulars have been given a break.

    Ben Stokes ruled out of first Test against Pakistan

    England captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the opening Test against Pakistan as he continues to recover from a torn hamstring. Stokes sustained the injury during The Hundred in August. With Stokes unavailable, wicketkeeper-batter Ollie Pope will step in as captain for the fourth match in a row.

    Tim Southee steps down as New Zealand captain

    Experienced fast bowler Tim Southee has recently stepped down as New Zealand’s Test captain after their 2-0 series defeat to Sri Lanka. Opening batter Tom Latham has been appointed as the new Test captain and will lead the side in the upcoming three-match series against India, starting on October 16.

    Also READ: Here’s how India can qualify for semifinal after humiliating loss against New Zealand in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

    SA20 player auction for 2025 season

    The SA20 player auction for the 2025 season was held in Cape Town recently, with all six franchises looking to finalize their squads. MI Cape Town made the biggest impact by securing South African opener Reeza Hendricks for an impressive R4.3 million. Meanwhile, notable players such as South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma and top-order batter Tony de Zorzi went unsold during the event.

    Rashid Khan ties the knot

    Afghan cricket star Rashid Khan has embarked on a new journey, tying the knot in a grand ceremony in Kabul on October 3, 2024. The skilled leg-spinner, known worldwide for his prowess on the field, celebrated the special occasion with a lavish wedding attended by teammates and several distinguished guests from Afghanistan and beyond.

    South Africa capture ODI series against Ireland

    South Africa have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against Ireland, with one match still left to be played. After winning the first ODI by 139 runs, South Africa carried their momentum into the second match, triumphing by 174 runs. The Proteas have been dominant throughout, both with bat and ball, leaving Ireland with the challenge of trying to salvage some pride in the final encounter.

    Also READ: England captain Ben Stokes ruled out of the first Test against Pakistan

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  • IPL 2025: KKR to trade Shreyas Iyer for Suryakumar Yadav? Here’s what we know

    IPL 2025: KKR to trade Shreyas Iyer for Suryakumar Yadav? Here’s what we know

    The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been marked by a significant upheaval within the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp. In a dramatic move, MI has replaced their long-time captain Rohit Sharma with all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has returned from the Gujarat Titans (GT) in a high-profile cash deal.

    Future and franchise interest

    This bold decision has ignited speculation about potential rifts between Rohit and Pandya, especially given MI’s underwhelming performance, finishing at the bottom of the points table. Despite an apparent reconciliation during India’s successful T20 World Cup 2024 campaign earlier this year, speculation about Rohit’s future continues to swirl. Reports suggested that Rohit has attracted interest from several franchises who are keen to secure his leadership for the upcoming IPL season. This ongoing uncertainty adds another layer to the evolving story at MI.

    KKR’s pursuit of Suryakumar Yadav in place of Shreyas Iyer

    In addition to the MI drama, recent developments suggest that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have shown interest in another player of Mumbai-based frnachise Suryakumar Yadav. The newly appointed T20I captain for India is reportedly being courted by KKR to lead their squad starting with IPL 2025. According to journalist Rohit Juglan, KKR has made an unofficial approach to Suryakumar, and a potential trade deal is in the works. This proposed swap could see Yadav return to a former team, with Shreyas Iyer, who led KKR to a title victory last year, potentially moving in the opposite direction.

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

    Implications of the  IPL 2025 mega auction

    With a mega auction scheduled before the next IPL season, these rumors are likely to gain traction. However, KKR has yet to release an official statement regarding these speculations. Both Suryakumar and Shreyas are currently participating in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament. The final decision will hinge on whether Suryakumar is inclined to return to KKR and how the Mumbai choose to navigate this situation.

    Suryakumar’s IPL record and future prospects

    Suryakumar began his IPL career with KKR under the leadership of Gautam Gambhir, contributing to their IPL-winning squad in 2014. He was later traded to Mumbai in exchange for Nitish Rana. Since joining MI, Yadav’s performance has been exceptional. He has accumulated 3,594 runs in 150 IPL matches at an average of 32.28 and a strike rate of 145.33. His prowess in the top order has been instrumental in several MI victories.

    As the full-time captain of India, Suryakumar led the team to a 3-0 series win over Sri Lanka in his debut series. His next challenge will be leading India in the T20I series against Bangladesh. With the IPL mega auction looming, Suryakumar’s future remains a key topic of discussion.

    Also READ: Rinku Singh reveals why he prefers to join RCB if released by KKR ahead of IPL 2025 auction



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  • Reports: India captain Suryakumar Yadav to be traded to KKR with title-winning skipper Shreyas Iyer

    Reports: India captain Suryakumar Yadav to be traded to KKR with title-winning skipper Shreyas Iyer

    Kolkata Knight Riders are known to recruit the best talents as evidenced by the rise of Rinku Singh, Shubman Gill, and in the last edition, speedsters like Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora. But the franchise is also known to gratify their grey heads, with the likes of Andre Russel and Sunil Narine still wearing the purple jersey proudly.

    As per the reports from NDTV Sports, the defending champions are contemplating bringing in their estranged family member ahead of the IPL 2025. KKR are reportedly trying to rope in Mumbai Indians’ star batter and India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav into their camp. Though Shreyas Iyer led the team to glory in IPL 2024, the move to bring Suryakumar can potentially lead the franchise in disarray among their ardent fans.

    Also Read: Shikhar Dhawan picks his favourite knock in India colours

    Moreover, furthering the collateral damage MI faced since the start of 2024, Rohit Sharma is also reportedly being approached by other franchises with a captaincy role served on a platter. Shedding light on Suryakumar’s potential comeback to KKR, the Kolkata-based franchise seems all in to strike a trade with MI keeping Iyer as the trading card. For the unversed, Yadav played for KKR from 2014 to 2017, before MI assumed his services.

    Iyer to play Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament for Mumbai

    Speaking of Iyer, the India batter was denied a central contract by the BCCI over abstaining from participating in India’s domestic cricket. The right-handed batter had recently made a comeback into the team despite being expelled from the annual contract list. However, the 29-year-old is named in the Duleep Trophy and will also feature in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament for Mumbai alongside Suryakumar.

    Also Read: Shami and Iyer open up on Rohit’s hilarious on-field reactions

    “Shreyas Iyer will play for the Mumbai team at the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament organised by Tamil Nadu Cricket Association. He will be playing the Mumbai v Jammu & Kashmir match to be played from August 27 at Coimbatore,” said MCA joint secretary, Deepak Patil.

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  • WATCH: Asitha Fernando delivers an absolute peach to send Shreyas Iyer packing | SL vs IND, 1st ODI

    WATCH: Asitha Fernando delivers an absolute peach to send Shreyas Iyer packing | SL vs IND, 1st ODI

    In the 1st ODI between Sri Lanka and India at the R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Shreyas Iyer encountered an exceptional delivery from Asitha Fernando that became a turning point in the match. This dismissal, taking place at a pivotal stage of India’s chase of Sri Lanka’s target of 231, significantly heightened the pressure on the Indian batting lineup.

    Shreyas Iyer’s dismissal by Asitha Fernando in the 1st ODI at Colombo

    In the 24th over of the Indian innings, Fernando, renowned for his ability to generate bounce and seam movement, bowled a superb delivery that nipped back sharply off the seam. Positioned deep inside his crease, Iyer attempted to play across the line but was completely beaten by the sudden movement. The ball crashed into his stumps, leaving Iyer out at a critical juncture. This dismissal not only disrupted a promising partnership but also added immense pressure on the remaining Indian batters, making the task of chasing the target even more challenging.

    Here’s the video:

    Also WATCH: SL vs IND : KL Rahul hilariously asks about the IPL rule query to Rohit Sharma during first ODI

    India’s struggle after a great start

    India’s innings started on a high note with captain Rohit Sharma playing an aggressive knock. He scored a brisk 58 off 47 balls, including seven boundaries and three sixes, setting a solid foundation for the chase. Shubman Gill, opening alongside Sharma, contributed 16 runs off 35 balls before falling to Dunith Wellalage. The early dismissals of Sharma and Gill slowed down the momentum, but Virat Kohli and Iyer tried to stabilize the innings. But Kohli’s innings was cut short at 24, leaving India at 130/4.

    Shreyas Iyer’s dismissal at 132/5 further dented India’s chase, and they found themselves struggling to keep up with the required run rate. The middle order, including KL Rahul and Axar Patel, faced the challenge of rebuilding the innings under increasing pressure. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, particularly Dunith Wellalage and Wanindu Hasaranga, maintained tight lines and lengths, making scoring difficult.

    Sri Lanka’s fight back after early collapse

    Earlier, Sri Lanka’s innings saw a steady but cautious approach, culminating in a total of 230/8 in their allotted 50 overs. Pathum Nissanka played a pivotal role at the top of the order, scoring a patient 56 off 75 balls, laced with nine boundaries. Despite losing his opening partner Avishka Fernando early, Nissanka anchored the innings. Contributions from Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka kept the scoreboard ticking, but regular wickets prevented Sri Lanka from gaining momentum.

    The middle-order saw Janith Liyanage and Wellalage making valuable contributions. Wellalage’s unbeaten 67 off 65 balls, with seven fours and two sixes, was instrumental in pushing Sri Lanka to a competitive total. India’s bowlers, particularly Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, kept the scoring rate in check with economical spells. Patel’s 2/33 and Yadav’s 1/33 were highlights of the bowling performance, supported by wickets from Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar.

    Also WATCH: Shivam Dube claims maiden ODI wicket by dismissing Kusal Mendis | SL vs IND 2024, 1st ODI



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  • Shreyas Iyer likely to make India comeback on Sri Lanka tour

    Shreyas Iyer likely to make India comeback on Sri Lanka tour

    Despite losing out on BCCI’s central contract, star batter Shreyas Iyer could feature for the Indian team in the upcoming tour against Sri Lanka on the back of his sublime campaign in the IPL (Indian Premier League) 2024. Iyer led Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title.

    On top of his brilliant performance in the shortest format, Iyer could also be selected for India’s upcoming series against Zimbabwe in July 2024. Furthermore, the assignments against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe could also be former batter Gautam Gambhir’s first assignment as the head coach of the Indian team. This could result in Iyer reuniting with KKR’s mentor once again shortly after the IPL win.

    “Shreyas is currently not at NCA. Here mostly those players are there who have performed in the IPL and will be in contention for Zimbabwe selection. Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, Mayank Yadav, Harshit Rana, Nitish Reddy, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Yash Dayal are all at the camp. Some will go to Zimbabwe T20Is,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying by The Times of India.

    Also Read: Reports: W.V. Raman also interviewed by CAC for head coach job, Gautam Gambhir still the frontrunner

    It is worth noting that Shreyas Iyer sustained a back injury but made a strong return in the Asia Cup 2023. He was also influential for India in the ODI World Cup 2023, where the Men in Blue reached the summit clash but lost the game to Pat Cummins-led Australia. 

    “However, there is every possibility that Shreyas will travel for the three-match ODI series in Sri Lanka. The last ODI that India played was in South Africa and he scored a half-century (52). He had 500 plus runs (530) in World Cup and averages just around 50. Can you drop him?” the source added.

    Also Read: Shreyas Iyer breaks silence on BCCI contract snub happening ‘due to lack of communication’

    Interestingly, Iyer’s last appearance for India was during the recent home Test series against England. He played the first two Tests of the series, which India comfortably won.

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  • IPL 2024: Videos of Shreyas Iyer and Sunil Narine’s special celebration with KKR teammates go viral

    IPL 2024: Videos of Shreyas Iyer and Sunil Narine’s special celebration with KKR teammates go viral

    Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged as emphatic champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, dismantling Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. This comprehensive victory marked their third IPL title and went down as the most lopsided final in IPL history.

    KKR’s dominance on full display

    KKR displayed their absolute supremacy, chasing down a meagre 113-run target (the lowest ever in an IPL final) with a staggering 8 wickets and 57 balls to spare. This clinical performance capped off a season where they were arguably the most consistent team, finishing with just three losses throughout the entire tournament.

    Also READ: Mitchell Starc showers love on wife Alyssa Healy after KKR wins the IPL 2024 title

    Meanwhile, SRH, considered the most entertaining team in the IPL, simply couldn’t match the KKR juggernaut. This defeat marked their third loss to the Knight Riders this season, having fallen to them twice in the league stage and once in the playoffs.

    Gautam Gambhir’s midas touch

    KKR’s resurgence can be partly attributed to the return of Gautam Gambhir, their two-time championship-winning captain, who rejoined the franchise as a mentor. His impact was immediate, instilling an aggressive playing style and a winning mentality within the team. Gambhir’s leadership also focused on giving players clear roles and bringing out their best potential.

    Champions’ Celebrations

    The jubilation continued at the team hotel, where a celebratory cake and champagne awaited the victorious KKR squad. Sunil Narine, who recently celebrated his birthday, had the honours of cake cutting, followed by skipper Shreyas Iyer christening the occasion with a champagne shower for his teammates. The boisterous celebrations, complete with cheers echoing through the night, promised a night of revelry for the well-deserved champions.

    Also WATCH: Emotional Shah Rukh Khan celebrates KKR’s IPL 2024 win with daughter Suhana, warmly embraces Gautam Gambhir



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  • IPL 2024 Final: Here’s what will happen if KKR vs SRH clash is abandoned due to rain

    IPL 2024 Final: Here’s what will happen if KKR vs SRH clash is abandoned due to rain

    The stage is set for a classic clash as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) lock horns in the IPL 2024 final. This marks the 11th time in IPL history that the top two teams from the league stage will battle for the championship title.

    KKR on a roll with Gautam Gambhir’s guidance

    KKR, led by Shreyas Iyer, booked their spot in the final after a dominant eight-wicket victory over SRH in Qualifier 1. This win came under the watchful eye of Gautam Gambhir, who rejoined the franchise as mentor this season. With Gambhir at the helm in 2012 and 2014, KKR lifted the IPL trophy twice. The Knight Riders aim to repeat history under his guidance.

    SRH boasts strong batting and bowling attack

    Despite the Qualifier 1 setback, SRH, under captain Pat Cummins, shouldn’t be underestimated. They fought their way back with a convincing 36-run win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2. Their pace bowling attack, featuring players like Bhuvneshwar Kumar, T Natarajan and in-form spinners, Shahbaz Ahmed and Abhishek Sharma, can pose a serious threat to the KKR batters. The Sunrisers batting strength lies in players like Abhishek, Travis Head, Rahul Tripathi and Heinrich Klaasen, who will be crucial in their quest for the title.

    What will happen if KKR vs SRH clash is washed out?

    While the forecast predicts moderate temperatures around 32 degrees Celsius and a slight breeze, there’s a chance of rain due to a storm brewing in the Bay of Bengal. However, current predictions suggest minimal impact on the match in Chennai. The IPL Governing Council has a designated reserve day in case of a washout on Sunday, May 26.

    Also READ: IPL 2024 Final, KKR vs SRH: My11Circle Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad

    In the highly unlikely scenario where neither a full match nor a replay on the reserve day is possible due to persistent rain, the team that finished higher in the points table at the end of the league stage will be declared the IPL 2024 champions. Currently, KKR sits atop the table, giving them a slight edge in this situation.

    Fans gear up for an electrifying final

    Both teams boast impressive form and talented players, making for a much awaited final at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. With a potential rematch narrative and the title at stake, this promises to be an exciting encounter that will keep cricket fans glued to their TV sets and mobile screens.

    Also READ: IPL 2024, KKR vs SRH – MA Chidambaram Stadium Pitch Report, Chennai Weather Forecast, T20 Stats & Records | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad

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