Kolkata Knight Riders Spinner on Favorite Wickets

Star spinner of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Varun Chakaravarthy has admitted he enjoys getting in-form batters out, or more so, some of the best in the game. Chakaravarthy recently mentioned that he enjoys getting out the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Heinrich Klaasen, and Nicholas Pooran.

#IPL #KKR

Varun Chakaravarthy said he likes to pick the wickets of in-form batters, like Heinrich Klaasen, Nicholas Pooran, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav!https://t.co/eXBGKZC08U

— News18 CricketNext (@cricketnext) March 31, 2025

Also read:LSG vs PBKS: Match 13 Weather and Pitch report – IPL 2025

As a mystery spinner, Chakaravarthy is known for his ability to misdirect some of the top batters in the world with varied spin. As he goes after these high-quality players he is looking for the in-form batter who can take over a match and create havoc for KKR.

As KKR continues their season, fans will be watching to see if Chakaravarthy continues this form of in-pursuit of prized batters in the lockeroom.

Gujarat Titans’ First IPL 2025 Victory Comes from Defeating Mumbai Indians by 36 Runs

Gujarat Titans clinched their first victory in IPL 2025 by overcoming the Mumbai Indians (MI) by 36 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Batting Wins the Game for GT

GT faced no trouble, as they comfortably managed 196 runs with 8 wickets taken in the 20 overs. Sai Sudharsan managed the innings, while both Shubman Gill (38) and Jos Buttler (39) played their parts. Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia’s cameos played a major impact as wickets fell regularly.

A Slow But Steady Chase by MI

MI’s chase began on a rough note as they lost Rohit Sharma early to Mohammed Siraj. Suryakumar Yadav struggled but managed a strong 48 runs off 28 balls. With Siraj and Prasidh Krishna’s amazing bowling skills, the rest of MI struggled as well. Hardik Pandya’s poor performance during the middle overs did not help MI's cause either, and at the end they fell short, scoring 160 with 8 wickets taken.

Also read:Watch: Hardik Pandya fight with Sai Kishore IPL 2025

Key Performances

• Sai Sudharsan (GT): Crucial innings refresher.
• Suryakumar Yadav (MI): Tried to keep MI stable, scored 48.
• Mohammed Siraj (GT): Smashed both Yadav and Sharma’s wickets early in the game.
• Prasidh Krishna (GT): Minimized MI’s scoring during the middle overs.

Post-Match Reactions

Mumbai Indians Captain, Hardik Pandya:
"It was a hard-fought game. The team showed great resilience, especially after our previous loss. Our bowlers executed the plans well, and the batsmen held their nerve during the chase. This win boosts our confidence moving forward.

Gujarat Titans Captain, Shubman Gill:
"Disappointed with the result. We were in the game till the end but couldn't capitalize on key moments. Credit to MI for their performance. We'll analyze our mistakes and come back stronger in the next match.

Also read:Suryakumar Yadav hit on helmet by Prasidh Krishna’s fiery bouncer

Player of the Match, Suryakumar Yadav:
"Happy to contribute to the team's victory. After being hit on the helmet, I took a moment to compose myself. The support from teammates helped me regain focus and see the game through.

Both teams acknowledged the competitive spirit of the game and emphasized learning from this encounter as they progress in the tournament.

A breath-hitching incident occurred during an IPL 2025 match between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI) when Suryakumar Yadav was struck on the helmet by a vicious bouncer from Prasidh Krishna.This event has transpired within the 13th over of MI’s run pursuit with SKY’s score reading 45 at just 23 balls. 

That was a close call for Surya! Prasidh Krishna delivered the ball straight into SKY's grill. He was down! That was a poor shot selection from SKY as he simply missed the pickup shot, got a top edge, and the ball crashed into his helmet. Luckily, it was a slower bowl from Prasidh, and the grill protected him.

However, it appears the ball may have clipped his right eye. The physio ran out for a quick look, and SKY is up and ready to go again. He will take a fresh guard and continue his innings! Not challenging this moment was really compliant but Yadav proved to be more powerful than the head in choosing comfort and after a round of applause stood up expecting support returning to middle.  

Sky Just missed a big injury #ipl2025 #GTvMI pic.twitter.com/eBOtRIcgst

— Dhanush (@Hitmanbabu45) March 29, 2025

Also Read: Rohit Sharma guides Satyanarayana Raju in IPL 2025 clash

Yadav is the strongest contestant in the MI squad due to his mental muscle. Every IPL match shows the level of extreme fast bowling with astonishing use of headgears. Yadav’s grit and determination has once again proven along the sides of Suryakumar embellishing reasons fuelling why he is one of the most crises deep valuable players of the tournament.

Mumbai Indians Stars Playfully Push Admin into the Pool

Mumbai Indians cricketers are famous for their camaraderie and light-hearted moments off the field. The other day, three of their star players Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Suryakumar Yadav wanted to play a prank on the team admin by pushing him into the pool.

The playful prank happened at the hotel of the team where the players were taking a break following a practice session. The three executed it to perfection. They started by diverting the admin's attention with a conversation. Then, before he could do anything, they picked him up and, smiling broadly, chucked him into the water.

Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav together are throwing the Mumbai Indians admin into the pool 😭🤣 pic.twitter.com/luubtrrGI4

— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) March 27, 2025

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All those present burst out laughing, and even the admin himself was surprised. Other players like  Hardik Pandya looked on and cheered and captured the moment on their phone. The video soon became popular among fans because it captured the lighter side of the Mumbai Indians team.

Mumbai Indians players have been close to each other always, and such sportive moments just add to the strength of their team. Both on and off the field, the team never fails to retain the spirit alive.

India's best all-rounder Hardik Pandya recently spoke about his experience of sharing the same team with cricket's biggest leaders. He talked about how fortunate he is to be playing for the Mumbai Indians, where he gets to play with three of cricket's greatest captains in Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav.

Pandya, a key Mumbai Indians and Indian team member, emphasized how nice it is to have such veteran leaders working around him. Hardik further added that Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav are always there to advise him and support him. He further added that the three of them are like a pillar of support, always ready to assist him whenever he needs guidance or assistance.

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Hardik Pandya talks about the Support of Rohit, Surya & Bumrah in the team. 👏

- MI is coming for their 6th Title...!!!! pic.twitter.com/mgnPi2lMqJ

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 19, 2025

Hardik outlined the way that players of this type prefer to put an arm across his shoulder, soothing and supporting him when he is down. For Pandya, to have these captains is more than cricket. They on-field captaincy and mentoring off the pitch have proved as precious as anyone could have thought, helping him to develop not only as a cricketer but as a person.

Having shared the pitch with such seasoned leaders has provided a platform for Hardik to learn and develop as a player. He said that having such players surrounding him provides additional confidence and their experience and suggestions have been priceless in his development as a cricketer.

Overall, Hardik Pandya's words refer to the importance of effective leadership in cricket. It is not just about winning matches but also about establishing a support group where players feel at ease opening up. With Rohit, Bumrah, and Suryakumar being his support group, Hardik is in an even better position to handle any situation that he finds himself in, both on and off the field.

Indian cricket fans will never forget the final over of the 2024 ICC T20 World  Cup, it was so heart stopping. In the final over, with South Africa needing 16 runs to  win, David Miller, their most destructive batter, was on the crease. It was tense. And then there was the catch, the incredible grab by Suryakumar Yadav at the  boundary, a moment that sealed India’s victory and their second T20 World Cup title, after 17  long years.        

Suryakumar Yadav on His Match-Winning Catch: “I Watch  It Every Hour”

In his words: How he feels about his game changing moment,  Suryakumar Yadav opened up on.

“I watch it every hour. I get a lot of chances to  use my phone and I watch it a lot of times and I am very grateful.”

This statement shows  how much the significance of his catch is not only to him but to millions of Indian cricket fans who  watched history being created.

Also See : Varanasi Fans Perform Aarti and Pray for Team India’s Victory in Champions Trophy Final

The Game-Changing Catch

The turning point moment occurred in the last over bowled by Hardik Pandya. David Miller, who has a reputation of winning games for his team, smashed a massive shot in the direction of long-off. For a brief moment, Indian hearts stopped beating. But then suddenly, Suryakumar Yadav judged the jump to perfection, caught the ball, and kept himself inside the boundary rope—giving India a dismissal that shattered the dreams of South Africa.

India went on to win the final seven runs, courtesy of exceptional death bowling by Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Pandya, but Suryakumar's catch was the standout moment that will be remembered.

The Power of Fitness and Reflexes

That one spectacular catch didn't come through luck-it was a product of intense fitness practice and quick reflexes. The speed, quickness, and accuracy of Suryakumar Yadav bespeak the superlative state of fitness which contemporary cricketers enjoy. From grueling exercise routines to specific field practice, players pump in lots of money into the fitness regimen just to achieve something like that on the field. 

Social Media Buzz and Fan Engagement

In the digital age, sensational sporting moments don't remain on the pitch-they burst on the internet. Yadav's catch went viral the moment it happened, with millions of fans posting, debating, and rejoicing over it on social media. Such moments enable cricketers to establish their brand, grow fan base, and make the sport even more exciting for global viewers.

Also See : Varanasi Fans Perform Aarti and Pray for Team India’s Victory in Champions Trophy Final

A comparison of the M.O.M. awards won by Indian players under the captaincy of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has spotted interesting trends that are enlightening.

Rohit Sharma Shines Under Kohli's Captaincy

When Virat Kohli led Indian in ICC tournament, Rohit Sharma emerged as the standout performer, winning the most M.O.M awards:

• 6 awards in just 19 matches, making him the most impactful player during Kohli’s tenure as captain
• Apart from Rohit, all rounder Ravindra Jadeja (2 awards in 12 matches) and pace spearhead
• Jasprit Bumrah(2 awards in 19 matches) also made valuable contributions.

Rohit’s performance under Kohli includes his record -breaking five centuries in the 2019 world cup, which played a crucial role in India’s dominant group-stage run.

Virat Kohli’s Dominance Under Rohit Sharma Captaincy

With Rohit Sharma taking over as India’s captain the table turned. Kohli himself became the most decorated player in terms of M.O.M awards:

• 7 awards in 29 matches, proving why he is one of the best batters in ICC tournaments. Kohli’s heroics in the 2022 T20 World Cup, Including the unforgettable 82 against Pakistan, reaffirmed his status as a match-winner.

Several Other players also stepped out under Rohit’s leadership:

• Mohammed Shami – 3 awards (17 matches)
• Jasprit Bumrah - 3 awards (19 matches)
• Suryakumar Yadav - 3 awards (21 matches)
• Rohit Sharma - 3 awards (29 matches)

Also Read : Shreyas Iyer Likely to Regain BCCI Central Contract

That is one big point that is visible, which is the way impact players changed with leadership difference. Under Virat Kohli, Rohit was India’s biggest match-winner; again, under Rohit, it has been Kohli as India’s go-to player in ICC tournaments. Under Rohit’s captaincy, bowlers have also gained supreme importance, with Shami, Bumrah, and Surya contributing to India’s success. And this shift is reflective of Rohit's leadership, whereby more of a balance was brought about in the contribution of the team, rather than being reliant on a couple of players or so.

India has always been richly blessed in ICC tournaments with match-winners. Under either Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma, it has always been a cesspool of players that rises in times of need on the big stage. With these two continuing to provide a backbone to India, we'll have many more promising batsmen and bowlers—the likes of Shami and Bumrah, alongside the brilliance of Surya cutting their teeth in action-filled ICC events.

As far as stump mic antics are concerned, India captain Rohit Sharma is a never-ending gift. Rohit's stump mic wisecracks, most times, have been trending on social media. Most importantly, fans love Rohit's antics. Who can ever forget his 'Garden mein ghoomne wale ladke' (boys who roam in the garden) comment to the young lads during the Test series against England last year. In recent times, India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav if the boys still walk in the garden, particularly with Rohit no longer included in the setup after he retired from the format.

SURYAKUMAR YADAV ON THE TALKS ON CAPTAIN ROHIT SHARMA'S FITNESS. pic.twitter.com/e2OrBzb5iN

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 6, 2025

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Suryakumar did, however, joke that he doesn't hold anyone back from shifting as no one does it anymore. He further added that he tries not to get close to the stump mic, further adding that someone's specialist work should stay with them alone, indirectly referring to Rohit's legendary stump mic chirps.

Suryakumar Yadav, is ready to appear in the Ranji Trophy 2025 quarter-final match against Haryana.He will be the one to give Mumbai the necessary aggressive batting needed to set the tone for the innings.

On other side Shivam Dube's performance will come in Mumbai plays at upcoming quarter-final match against Haryana. 

Mumbai Road to quarter-finals

Mumbai have qualified for the quarter-finals by completing the league stage second in their group, and a match lost  to Jammu and Kashmir. Dominating performances in the league stage, with a much  win against Meghalaya, secured Mumbai a spot in the knockouts. Yadav and Dube are expected to help Mumbai to win its 42nd Ranji Trophy title.

ALSO SEE:  Where to Watch WPL 2025 Live: TV and Streaming Details

Match Details:

• Fixture: Mumbai vs Haryana – Ranji Trophy Quarter-Final
• Date: February 8, 2025
• Venue: Eden Gardens , Kolkata, West Bengal
• Time: 9:30 AM IST

Suryakumar Yadav preparing for the Ranji Quarters. 🌟 pic.twitter.com/XEue2UMeh7

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 7, 2025

Live Stream and Telecast:

• TV: Watch live on Sports18.
• Online: Free streaming on JioCinema (app & website).
• International: Can be watch in sports channels like Willow TV (USA), Sky Sports (UK), Fox Sports (Australia).
• Updates: Follow BCCI’s social media for live scores and highlights.

Exceptation from the match:

Lahli pitch is known to help the bowler mainly pacer. Mumbai strong batsmen, including Yadav, Dube, and skipper Ajinkya Rahane, would take  Haryana's bowling attack. For Haryana, facing the match would like to win and entry the semi-finals.

It's going to be a highly charged knockout pressure situation, with players returning, which promises this quarter-final to be an exciting contest.

4th T20I of India vs England Predicted XI & Match details

The 4 T20I between India and England is a must win for both trying to get out of the series. India might opt for the strongest XI in the 4th T20I beginning with Suryakumar Yadav as Rinku Singh has fully fit and returns for the 4th T20I against England, strengthening India's middle order by his explosive finishing. He would add a crucial depth and power to the batting line up in this match.

Match Details:

• Match: IND VS ENG,4th,T20I
• Date: January 31, 7:00 PM (IST)
• Venue:Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune
• Live streaming:Star Sports Network, DD Sports & Disney+HotStar

Predicted playing IX:

1. Sanju Samson (WK): Provides stability at the top and adds flexibility in the batting order.
2. Abhishek Sharma: A young left-hander with aggressive stroke play, capable of providing quick starts.
3. Tilak Varma: A dependable middle-order batter with the ability to accelerate when needed.
4. Suryakumar Yadav (C): The skipper and India’s most experienced T20 batter, known for his 360-degree shots.
5. Hardik Pandya: The pace-bowling all-rounder adds power with the bat and provides crucial overs.
6. Rinku Singh: Back to full fitness, he is India’s designated finisher with exceptional hitting ability in the death overs.
7. Washington Sundar: A spin-bowling all-rounder, effective in both batting and bowling departments.
8. Axar Patel: A key player in the lower order, offering control with the ball and handy contributions with the bat.
9. Arshdeep Singh: India’s lead left-arm pacer, effective with both the new and old ball.
10. Mohammed Shami:  pacer brings experience and pace to the bowling attack.
11. Varun Chakravarthy: The mystery spinner can trouble England’s batters with his variations.

India's Probable XI: Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy

Key Updates:

• Rinku Singh is fit and comes back into the playing XI.
• The experience from Mohammed Shami will also bolster the pace attack.
• Varun Chakravarthy's mystery spin will be of huge importance in Ranchi conditions
• Balanced team with both old players and new blood.

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