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MS Dhoni (BCCI/IPL)
MS Dhoni (BCCI/IPL)
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Chennai Super Kings Likely To Retain MS Dhoni For Next 3 IPL Seasons As Franchises Decide On Player Retentions For IPL 2022

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Chennai Super Kings are likely to retain their longstanding captain MS Dhoni for the next three Indian Premier League seasons. Apart from MS Dhoni, the franchise Chennai Super Kings is set to retain all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad-the top run-getter in IPL 2021, who played crucial roles as Chennai Super Kings won the 2021 IPL title.

As per BCCI rules, each team is allowed to retain a maximum of four players. Chennai Super Kings is also in talks with England all-rounder Moeen Ali to come on board. As BCCI secretary Jay Shah had stated that the next season of IPL 2022 will be played in India, CSK feels Moeen Ali could be a handy player on the slow, turning Chennai wicket.

Chennai Super Kings' Ravindra Jadeja With MS Dhoni CSK Twitter Handle
Chennai Super Kings’ Ravindra Jadeja With MS Dhoni CSK Twitter Handle

Chennai Super Kings Likely To Retain MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad And Moeen Ali Or Sam Curran

If Moeen Ali doesn’t agree to stay, Chennai Super Kings will have left-arm medium-pacer Sam Curran as their fourth retained player. The franchises have to submit their lists of retained players by November 30 and the IPL 2022 will have its mega auction next month.

Chennai Super Kings retaining MS Dhoni wouldn’t come as a surprise, especially with the brand value he brings to the team. At a recent Chennai Super Kings event, MS Dhoni had confirmed that his last T20 game will be in Chennai, putting his IPL retirement speculations to bed.

“I have always planned my cricket. My last ODI in India was in Ranchi. Hopefully, my last T20 will be in Chennai. Whether it’s next year or in five years’ time, I don’t know,” Dhoni had said.

Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant | BCCI/IPL
Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant | BCCI/IPL

Chennai Super Kings are also likely not to retain Suresh Raina for the first time. The former India batsman has been out of touch and didn’t play crucial knockout IPL games. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals are set to retain wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Axar Patel, Prithvi Shaw and pacer Anrich Nortje. Shreyas Iyer was released since he wanted to lead Delhi Capitals, but the franchise was keen to have Rishabh Pant as their leader going ahead.

However, most franchises will be following the tactic of not retaining four players as this could lead to stress on their purse during the auction. It is understood that Mumbai Indians will retain Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah. While negotiations with their West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard are still on, the franchise wants to buy Suryakumar Yadav from the auction pool and chances of Ishan Kishan being retained are also bright.

KL Rahul Has Parted Ways With Punjab Kings And Will Likely Lead Lucknow Franchise

Two new teams Sanjiv Goenka’s RPSG group and CVC Capitals (though they haven’t been given the green signal yet from the board), have begun approaching a few top Indian players. India opener KL Rahul is likely to lead Sanjeev Goenka’s new Lucknow team. KL Rahul, who was signed by PBKS for Rs 11 crore at the IPL 2018 auction, will reportedly spearhead the new Lucknow franchise in the IPL 2022.

It is learnt KL Rahul has parted ways with Punjab Kings and has accepted Sanjeev Goenka’s offer. It is also learnt that Suryakumar Yadav was approached by the new franchise, but the batsman hasn’t responded yet.

KL Rahul
KL Rahul (Image Credit: Twitter)

Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders are likely to retain their two all-rounders, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell, while they want to keep Varun Chakravarty too. However, it is learnt that KKR is still deciding on whether to retain Shubman Gill or Venkatesh Iyer.

Meanwhile, Aakash Chopra opined that RCB will retain Virat Kohli, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Siraj, and Devdutt Padikkal. However, he excluded pacer Harshal Patel, who was the Purple Cap winner in IPL 2021 and inconsistent big-hitting batsman Glenn Maxwell.

Players Likely To Be Retained:

CSK: MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali/ Sam Curran , Ruturaj Gaikwad

KKR: Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Shubman Gill/Venkatesh Iyer, Varun Chakravarthy

RCB: Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Yuzvendra Chahal

DC: Rishabh Pant, Prithvi Shaw, Anrich Nortje, Avesh Khan/Axar Patel

RR: Ben Stokes, Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler

SRH: Rashid Khan, Jonny Bairstow/Kane Williamson

MI: Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard

PBKS: KL Rahul (if he agrees to stay), Mayank Agarwal, Ravi Bishnoi

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KL Rahul
KL Rahul (Image Credit: Twitter)
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In-Form KL Rahul Could Become Most Expensive Player At IPL 2022 Auction If Not Retained By Punjab Kings, Says Aakash Chopra

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Aakash Chopra believes KL Rahul could be the most expensive player at the IPL 2022 auction if the Punjab Kings does not retain him. KL Rahul won the orange cap scoring 670 runs at an average of 55.83 in IPL 2020, and followed it up by scoring 626 runs averaging 62.6 in 13 IPL 2021 games. As a result, KL Rahul finished as 3rd highest run-getter in IPL 2021.

KL Rahul scored 65 runs off 49 deliveries in the second T20I against New Zealand in Ranchi last night. The stylish right-handed opener also strung together 117 runs for the first wicket with skipper Rohit Sharma.

KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma---Image: Twitter
KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma—Image: Twitter

Aakash Chopra: KL Rahul Is India’s Best T20 Batsman

While lauding India’s opening pair, in a video shared on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra was particularly effusive in his praise for KL Rahul.

“Rohit and Rahul, what a tone they have. KL Rahul, I am saying it again – he is India’s best T20 batsman. There is no better batter than him. He will be the most expensive player if he goes into the IPL auction, if the ceiling is not fixed because of the draft,” said Aakash Chopra.

The former India cricketer added that KL Rahul had exhibited amazing consistency after his failures against Pakistan and New Zealand in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2021, where India was ousted from the group stage.

Aakash Chopra observed: “If you see the last five matches, he has scored three-four fifties in that. I know he didn’t score against Pakistan and New Zealand, but this player is of a different level.”

KL Rahul has struck four half-centuries in India’s last five T20Is. His dismissal for 15 in the first T20I against New Zealand was the only time he failed to reach the fifty-run mark in this period. He struck three consecutive fifties against Afghanistan (69), Scotland (54), and Namibia (50*) in the T20I World Cup after a poor show in the 1st two matches versus Pakistan and New Zealand, both of which India lost.

Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Aakash Chopra is in awe of the sublime sixes KL Rahul hits over covers against pacers.

He elaborated: “The six he hits over the covers against the fast bowlers, however fast you may bowl, it is kamaal and lajawab. Of course, I am a KL Rahul fan, you know it already. You should also be his fan because the skill level is unbelievable.”

A 117-run stand between KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma topped off a superb team effort with the ball in dewy conditions as India wrapped up victory in the T20I series against New Zealand with one match still remaining. Both openers made half-centuries during which their calculated risks came off at just the right times.

Aakash Chopra Praised Skipper Rohit Sharma For Hitting Amazing Sixes Against The Short Ball

The reputed commentator also had a word of praise for Rohit Sharma.

Aakash Chopra said: “Rohit Sharma started very slowly; he was going at run-a-ball for the first 20 deliveries. He decided around the 10th over that enough respect has been given. After that, a 16-run over from Mitchell Santner and then another big over. He hits amazing sixes against the short ball.”

Harshal Patel picked up the key wickets of Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips BCCI
Harshal Patel picked up the key wickets of Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips BCCI.

KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma complemented each other very well. While the former was quick off the blocks, the newly appointed Indian T20I captain also joined the party once he got his eye in to help the hosts register a comfortable seven-wicket win.

Man of the Match Harshal Patel’s slower ball, meanwhile, proved just as effective on international debut as it had done through his record-breaking 2021 IPL season where he took the maximum of 32 scalps, in conjunction with the long boundaries at the JSCA Stadium. He conceded just 25 in his four overs and took the wickets of Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips, both caught in the deep.

Post-powerplay, New Zealand only scored 89 at 6.36 per over, with Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Tim Seifert, and James Neesham combining to score 36 off 51 after the fields spread out. That New Zealand ended up with 153 was largely down to the fast hands of Glenn Phillips, who hit three sixes in scoring 34 off 21.

India 155 for 3 (Rahul 65, Rohit 55, Southee 3-16) beat New Zealand 153 for 6 (Phillips 34, Mitchell 31, Harshal 2-25, Ashwin 1-19) by seven wickets

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KL Rahul
KL Rahul-Reuters.
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Dale Steyn Picks KL Rahul As Modern Indian Batsman Who May Have Created A Problem For Him As A Bowler

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Dale Steyn, former South African pacer in his Q/A session on Twitter on Tuesday, picked one present Indian batsman who may have troubled him the most during his playing days.

Dale Steyn had retired from Test cricket after taking 439 scalps from 93 Tests averaging 22.95. He also has 196 ODI scalps and 64 T20I scalps besides his name. He had also taken 97 scalps from 95 IPL matches playing many games for Royal Challengers Bangalore besides skipper Virat Kohli. He has played 33 matches for RCB taking 32 scalps.

Dale Steyn has picked current Indian batter who would have caused him trouble during his playing days
Dale Steyn has picked current Indian batter who would have caused him trouble during his playing days  |  Photo Credit: AP, File Image

India Didn’t Have Results As Desired At The T20I World Cup Campaign But Finished With Victories In Last 3 Consecutive Games

India may not have had the desired T20 World Cup 2021 campaign this year after being eliminated from the Super 12 stage, but there is no denying that this team is filled with superstars and players who can win games, all the way through single handedly. Team India signed off with three consecutive wins, putting up dominant performances.

Perhaps a couple of good shows in the earlier games against heavyweights Pakistan and New Zealand could have seen India playing the semi-finals as well.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma
Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma—Twitter

However, no one would deny the fact that this Indian team is one of the best in the world, looking at heights scaled and achievements accomplished over the years. India won two back-to-back Test series in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21. Moreover, they were leading 2-1 in the Test series against England this year, before the fifth and final Test was unfortunately called off for the time being due to Covid-19.

These results are a clear testimony to the potential of this team and its players. India’s top three batsmen, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli, are exceptional and intimidating. The likes of pacers Mohammed Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah have been vital pillars of the side among the group of talented bowlers the team possesses.

Dale Steyn Thinks KL Rahul Would May Have Created A Problem For Him As A Bowler

Dale Steyn, former South Africa speedster, took to Twitter on Tuesday, where he hosted a Question and Answer session. Quite obviously, Dale Steyn was bombarded with several questions pertaining to matters both on and off the field. One of the questions to Dale Steyn was to select one batter from the present who would have caused him trouble during his career.

“In today’s generation which batter do you think would have created a problem for you as a bowler?” the tweet read. 

Two letters were all that Dale Steyn needed to reply to this question. His reply, stating ‘KL’, quite obviously means India’s most promising batsman KL Rahul. It is only fair to say that KL Rahul is perhaps in the form of his life. Ever since he made his return to the Test side, KL Rahul has consistently been among the runs. The stylish openers accumulated 315 runs in four Tests in England, which included a brilliant match-winning century at Lord’s.

KL Rahul
KL Rahul (Image Credit: Twitter)

KL Rahul carried forward his good run into the IPL 2021 as well as being on the orange cap list is nothing new to him. He scored 626 runs, emerging as the third-highest run-getter in the 2021 season. Unfortunately, he could not replicate the same form against Pakistan and New Zealand in the T20 World Cup. But he did come back strong, striking three consecutive fifties against Afghanistan (69), Scotland (54), and Namibia (50*).

KL Rahul won the orange cap scoring 670 runs at an average of 55.83 in IPL 2020, and followed it up by scoring 626 runs averaging 62.6 in 13 IPL 2021 games. As a result, KL Rahul finished as 3rd highest run-getter behind CSK’s openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis in IPL 2021.

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Virender Sehwag Reuters Photo
Virender Sehwag Reuters Photo
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Virender Sehwag Names Jasprit Bumrah As His Choice For Vice Captaincy Role In 3 Formats

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Virender Sehwag has named his choice for the vice-captaincy role in India’s T20I squad. The former India opener has snubbed the likes of wicket-keeper batsmen KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant while picking pacer Jasprit Bumrah for the role.

The Indian cricket team is set to enter a new phase with the arrival of head coach Rahul Dravid and a new T20I captain, most likely in the form of Rohit Sharma. However, the debate over the vice-captain’s role in the shortest format of the game is also a hot and debatable one. While KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant are the names that have been spoken about a lot, former India cricketer Virender Sehwag has another name in mind.

Virender Sehwag
Virender Sehwag (Image Credit: Twitter)

Virender Sehwag: There Can’t Be A Better Option Than Jasprit Bumrah As Vice-Captain Who Plays All 3 Formats

KL Rahul has the experience of captaincy through his stint with Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Rishabh Pant is another name that has been floated, with the wicket-keeper batsman showing his leadership skills in the IPL 2021, too, with the Delhi Capitals after Shreyas Iyer’s injury.

However, Virender Sehwag feels considering the consistency that Jasprit Bumrah has shown over the years, he should be sitting top of the contenders for vice-captaincy debate in T20Is among fans and experts.

“You make your captain or vice-captain someone who plays all three formats. So there can’t be a better option than Jasprit Bumrah among players who play all three formats. No doubt, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, among others, are certainly there but do they play all three formats or will they do so in the future? Will they be able to perform as consistently as Jasprit Bumrah?”, Sehwag said.

India's Jasprit Bumrah in action during the 2019 ICC World Cup | AFP / Dibyangshu Sarkar
India’s Jasprit Bumrah in action during the 2019 ICC World Cup | AFP / Dibyangshu Sarkar

The Indian cricket team hasn’t had an out-and-out fast-bowler leading the team in the past. Even 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev was an all-rounder while Anil Kumble, a leg-spinner, led the team for a brief period of time in Tests.

Virender Sehwag Feels Jasprit Bumrah Could Be The Best Choice For Vice Captaincy

Considering the current scenario, however, Virender Sehwag feels Jasprit Bumrah would be the ideal choice for vice-captaincy in India’s T20I side. Rohit Sharma’s formal appointment as India’s next T20I skipper could be only a few days away. With Virat Kohli set to step down after the T20 World Cup 2021 concludes, Rohit Sharma is the odds-on favourite to take up the job.

“There have been very few such occasions in Indian cricket, perhaps Kapil Dev was the only fast-bowler who captained and then Anil Kumble became captain as a bowler. Apart from these, there hasn’t been any other name of a fast-bowler or spinner becoming the captain or being good enough for being a captain or vice-captain… But in today’s day and age, I think Bumrah could be the best choice for vice-captaincy.”

While the selectors are yet to officially stamp on a name for the captaincy role in the shortest format, Virender Sehwag feels Jasprit Bumrah should be groomed into the leadership role, and for that to happen, handing him the vice-captain’s responsibility would be ideal.

KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. (Photo Source: Twitter)
KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. (Photo Source: Twitter)

“When he’ll become and play as the vice-captain, he’ll get groomed to right? And whoever the selectors make the captain, Jasprit Bumrah can be his vice-captain. It’s not necessary that Rohit Sharma will be the captain. But Bumrah can certainly be the vice-captain,” Sehwag further explained.

Unlike the other names in the vice-captain’s debate, the only factor working against Jasprit Bumrah is prior experience. Jasprit Bumrah hasn’t officially been given a leadership role at his IPL franchise Mumbai Indians. But, the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and even Shreyas Iyer have played that role in T20 cricket.

Rohit Sharma is likely to be rested from India’s forthcoming bilateral limited-overs assignment against New Zealand, which means the selectors will need to put a temporary captain for the series too. KL Rahul could don the captain’s hat as keeping in mind the players’ fatigue due to the bio- bubble life, some senior players will be rested for the T20I series against New Zealand.

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Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh SUJIT JAISWALGETTY IMAGES
Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh (SUJIT JAISWALGETTY IMAGES)
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Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh Could End Up Owning A New IPL Team

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Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh could end up owing an IPL 2022 team with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester United, a dark-horse. The race to buy two new Indian Premier League teams is really hotting up. If well-placed sources are to be believed, the Bollywood superstar couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are the latest to join the bandwagon.

What was once seen as a two-horse race previously is now going to see multiple companies or consortiums bidding for the two new teams, which the BCCI will sell.

The Adani Group and the RP-Sanjeev Goenka Groups are no more tagged as the ‘favourites’ to walk away with the new teams. However, some serious bidders are willing to spend money on the world’s most lucrative T20 cricket league, said a top official involved with the bidding process.

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh
Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh (Photo: @ranveersingh/Instagram)

Deepika Padukone And Ranveer Singh Could End Up Owing A New IPL 2022 Team Along With Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester United

IPL and Bollywood have always had a great connection. Kolkata Knight Riders continue to be co-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla, while Preity Zinta has stakes in Punjab Kings. Deepika Padukone has sport in her genes.

Her father, Prakash Padukone, is a former All England badminton champion. Ranveer Singh has been involved with the English Premier League and is currently the brand ambassador of the world’s most popular basketball league, the NBA.

Apart from the Adanis and the RP-Sanjeev Goenka Group, the Glazer family, the owners of English Premier League giants Manchester United, have shown interest in the IPL teams.

It is learned that a corporate behemoth in India is backing Manchester United. According to a report in March this year, Manchester United’s net debt increased to 455 million Great Britain Pounds due to a sharp fall in gate receipts due to COVID-19.

Manchester United
Manchester United. Image Credits: Twitter

“The BCCI is not keen to give the rights to an off-shore company and will prefer Indian buyers but power equations can change the script dramatically,” said the source.

Among those who have picked up bids, documents are pharma companies like Torrent Pharma and Aurobindo Pharma. A Singapore-based private equity firm and US-based venture capitalists have also shown interest. Naveen Jindal (Jindal Power and Steel) and entrepreneur Ronnie Screwvala are also keen to acquire a new team.

Deepika Padukone Keen To Take Part Bidding Process Of Two New IPL Teams

The results will be declared in Dubai on October 25, a day after the T20 World Cup blockbuster clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. But, first, there will be an elimination round where all bids will be ‘technically’ verified as per rules laid out by the BCCI. All successful bids will then be opened, and the highest bidders will be awarded the teams.

“Although it is a closed bid, we are expecting a fair and transparent process. The only hodgepodge could happen in the verification/elimination stage but it is unlikely BCCI will adopt unfair means to favour particular companies,” said a bidder on condition of anonymity.

Winning bids could be anywhere between 375 to 425 million USD per team for a 10-year license. That means BCCI will make anything between 3000-3500 Crores per team. But there could be bigger surprises in store.

Shah Rukh Khan | Punit Paranjpe/AFP
Shah Rukh Khan | Punit Paranjpe/AFP

Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone are said to be very keen on taking part in the bidding process of two new IPL teams. But the sources refused to reveal more details. Deepika Padukone has a sports background, and earlier, she was the ambassador for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Bollywood has a great connection with cricket, and stars like Shah Rukh, Preity Zinta, and Shilpa Shetty already own three teams, respectively.

BCCI expects to raise around Rs 7,000-10,000 crore from the team bidding process slated to take place on October 25. While the IPL bid document costs just Rs 10 lakh, the league allows only firms and consortiums with an annual turnover of Rs 3,000 crore to bid for the teams. The base price for new IPL teams is pegged at Rs 2,000 crore.

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KL Rahul And Rohit Sharma (Image Credit: Twitter)
KL Rahul And Rohit Sharma (Image Credit: Twitter)
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KL Rahul Should Open Alongside Rohit Sharma In 2021 T20I World Cup: Aakash Chopra

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Aakash Chopra has shared his wishlist about Team India ahead of the T20 World Cup warm-up game against England. It includes KL Rahul batting at the top of the order alongside Rohit Sharma.

The 15-member Indian squad has multiple opening spot options in Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Ishan Kishan. Skipper Virat Kohli had also expressed his wish to bat at the top of the order after India’s home series last match against England.

KL Rahul Image Source : GETTY IMAGES
KL Rahul Image Source: GETTY IMAGES

Aakash Chopra:  Now That KL Rahul Is Firing And Running Better, He Should Open Alongside Rohit Sharma

While reflecting on India’s opening conundrum, in a video shared on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra highlighted that KL Rahul is in better touch than Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

“The first thing is the batting order, who is going to open? Last time when they played, Rohit and Kohli had opened, and both had hit a lot and the talk started to make them open because Rahul was not making runs at that time. But now Rahul is firing. He is not walking; he is running and running better than Rohit and Virat.”

KL Rahul
KL Rahul (Image Credit: Twitter)

While picking Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul as his two openers, Aakash Chopra wants KL Rahul to be carefree and bat in a fearless approach.

“So, please get Rohit and Rahul to open. Virat Kohli at No.3, I want to see how Surya is batting. I want the carefree and fearless approach from Rahul. I want the big innings from Rohit because he is only showing the trailer, we haven’t seen the picture for a long time in white-ball cricket.”

KL Rahul brought his explosive side to the fore in the Punjab Kings’ last match of IPL 2021 against the Chennai Super Kings. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians skipper Rohit Sharma got off to starts but did not play substantial knocks in the UAE leg of the tournament.

KL Rahul scored 626 runs from 13 innings in IPL 2021 while opening the batting for Punjab Kings and his last innings against Chennai Super Kings was breathtaking. The Punjab skipper smashed an unbeaten 98 off 42 balls with seven fours and eight sixes that took his overall strike rate to 138.30 at the end of the tournament.

The 23-year-old Ishan Kishan scored 84 off 32 balls and 50 not out off 25 balls at the top of the order in the final two games for Mumbai Indians, but it went in vain as the defending champions were knocked out of play-offs due to inferior net run-rate compared to Kolkata Knight Riders.

Aakash Chopra: If Hardik Pandya Is Unable To Bowl, Batting Order Will Be Changed Entirely

While naming Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya as his finishers, Aakash Chopra highlighted the question marks about the latter’s ability to bowl, though.

“Virat Kohli should continue playing the way he is playing. He anyways plays very well in the World Cup. I will keep Rishabh Pant at No.5, Hardik Pandya at No.6, and that’s my big question – Hardik Pandya’s bowling.”

The 44-year-old commentator added that India’s balance will be compromised if all-rounder Hardik Pandya can’t roll his arm over.
Aakash Chopra pointed out: “If Hardik Pandya is bowling, we are all happy. You will have to change your batting order entirely if Hardik Pandya is not bowling. How will you do that, I am unable to understand.”
Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Aakash Chopra concluded by saying that Team India will have a formidable look if Hardik Pandya is at his best both with bat and ball, which wasn’t on show in the recently concluded IPL 2021.

He reasoned: “Hardik Pandya at No.6 is only possible if you get him to bowl and he scores runs because he has not scored runs. If he is there at No.6 and Jaddu at No.7, you will have six bowling options and two rocket batsmen at No.6 and No.7.”

Team India will have their task cut out if Hardik Pandya can’t bowl. They would either have to bat Ravindra Jadeja at No.6 if they want an extra bowling option or hope that the five frontline bowlers would do the job.

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Ness Wadia. (TOI Photo)
Ness Wadia. (TOI Photo)
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Ness Wadia Thinks Each New Team In IPL 2022 Would Go For 3,000 To 3,500 Crores

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Ness Wadia, Punjab Kings co-owner, expects each of two new teams in the IPL – set to be announced by the BCCI on October 25 after a team auction – to be sold for not less than 3,000 to 3,500 cr.

Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia feels Rs 2000 crore base price for two new IPL teams is a conservative number that should go up by 50 to 100 per cent during bidding.

Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia. - PTI
Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia. – PTI

Ness Wadia Thinks Each New Team Would Go For A Minimum Of 3000-3500 Crores

Punjab Kings, who are almost out of playoffs contention this season, are again expected to build a squad from scratch, having failed in their pursuit of success repeatedly, as they are one of the teams yet to win an IPL.

“The value of each of the new teams should be 50 to 75% more than the base price of Rs 2000 cr. I think each team would go for a minimum of 3,000 to 3,500 cr,” Ness Wadia said.

He welcomed the addition of the new teams to the current eight-team IPL.

“I’m excited about two new teams coming in because it will add a new dimension to the league. It will bring in a much wider base of viewership. I believe that it will add a lot of opportunity to not only several other cricketers but will bring in a lot of income to coaching staff and owners. More importantly, it will enhance the number of games in the IPL, so the fans will get a lot more cricket to watch,” said Ness Wadia.

IPL Trophy. (BCCI/IPL Photo)
IPL Trophy. (BCCI/IPL Photo)

The IPL player auction would be a mega auction as it will be interesting to see how many players each franchise would be allowed to retain, now that there would be two new teams in the mix.

“It should be fair and equitable, especially to the two new teams coming in. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens from that perspective,” he said.

While several teams will try to retain their top players, there will still be players who’ll be hot property in the auction.

“We don’t know what the retention or right to match will be. We’ll see (things) based on that. I think there are several players which teams will be gunning for,” said Ness Wadia.

He hailed the BCCI’s decision to schedule two IPL matches at the same time on the final day of the league phase so that no team has an extra advantage in terms of knowing what to do in their last league match.

“I think the BCCI’s objective has always been to have a balanced and equitable standing and positioning for each of the teams. It’s a good decision. I congratulate them for being so pro-active,” said Ness Wadia.

The KL Rahul-led side is sitting at the fifth position in the IPL 2021 points table with 10 points from 13 games, and their habit of losing games from winning positions will definitely come to haunt them. They have played a game extra, and Kolkata Knight Riders winning against Sunrisers Hyderabad has also made their chances bleak.

Ness Wadia Opens Up On Chris Gayle’s Decision To Leave PBKS Bio-Bubble, Nicholas Pooran’s Poor Form

Ness Wadia expressed sympathy for ‘Universe Boss’ West Indies veteran batsman Chris Gayle, who, citing bubble fatigue, decided to leave the Punjab Kings bio-bubble in UAE midway to take a break for the forthcoming T20I World Cup.

“We respect his decision and totally understand and sympathize with him. The bubble is a very difficult place and we’re grateful, thankful and respectful of all our players and we do know that they compromise a lot of their life by spending time in the bubble, and we salute each of our players for doing so,” said Ness Wadia.

He was disappointed by the poor form of West Indies’ batting gun Nicholas’ Pooran, who has managed to put together just 85 runs in 12 matches averaging 7.72.

“Pooran’s form has been disappointing. However, he’s a world-class player and I’m sure that he’ll bounce back, learn from his shortcomings in this IPL season, and do well for the West Indies and club. I’m sure that he’ll be an improved player, and will understand that his role is critical in the team. He’ll understand that he has the potential to do greater things. It’s just about optimizing his talent,” said Ness Wadia.

Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran (Picture Credit: BCCI/IPL)
Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran (Picture Credit: BCCI/IPL)

Skipper KL Rahul has evolved into an all-format leading player for India. His evolution is pleasing to the Punjab Kings’ co-owner. KL Rahul is the leading run-scorer in IPL 2020 (670 runs) and IPL 2021 so far (528 runs).

“KL’s evolution is definitely pleasing. Firstly from an India perspective. He’s a wonderful all-round player. I’m so happy for him and the Indian team. I’m sure that he’ll go from strength to strength,” he said.

Ness Wadia also opened up about the change in the franchise’s name from Kings XI Punjab to Punjab Kings.

“The board felt that it was important to change the name after playing with the same name for 14 years. We felt that I was a good change to bring in, so we did that,” Ness Wadia said.

Punjab Kings have lost a few games from winning positions. For example, in a league match against the Rajasthan Royals, they needed 15 off the final two overs, with eight wickets in hand. These kinds of close defeats snatched from certain victories have left the team’s co-owner disappointed.

“It’s a bit disappointing. We should’ve done better, and I’m sure that we will. I’m sure that the players are well aware of their responsibilities, required focus, and improvement in closing out of games. But there’s a lot of pressure, and one does understand that,” Ness Wadia said.

Youngsters pacer Arshdeep Singh and spinner Ravi Bishnoi have shown tremendous promise.

“I think that India has a wonderful bunch of players. If India were to play with two cricket teams, we’d still be in the top five in the world. That’s the kind of talent we have,” concluded Ness Wadia.

The only possible way for Punjab Kings will be to win their remaining game at first by a considerable margin as it will keep them in the race for the playoff spot. But it won’t be easy as their next fixture will be against Chennai Super Kings. They will also have to hope that Kolkata Knight Riders lose the game to RR by a huge margin.

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RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team- IPL 2021
RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team- IPL 2021.
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IPL 2021- RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team, Playing XI, Pitch Report and Injury Update

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IPL 2021- RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Dream11 Team, and Injury Update of the match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Punjab Kings.

RCB vs PBKS IPL 2021 Match Preview:

Royal Challengers Bangalore will lock horns with Punjab Kings in the 48th match of the Indian Premier League, at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, on Sunday.

The Virat Kohli-led side finally got back to winning ways after losing two consecutive matches in the UAE leg. They secured a dominating win against Rajasthan by seven wickets in their previous encounter.

Glenn Maxwell is in sublime form and he is the key player for them. Virat Kohli and his boys have lost their last three matches against Punjab Kings and they need to be more careful this time around. They currently sit at the third spot in the standings with 14 points.

Punjab, on the other hand, exuded great character to secure victory against Kolkata and kept their hopes of making it to the play-offs alive. Heading into this game, as the race to play-offs is already heated, both the teams will be keen on clinching victory and it would thus be an intriguing contest to watch out for.

The tournament is wide open and there are five teams battling for the remaining playoff spots. Kings finally found their finisher in the form of Shahrukh Khan. However, they still mainly rely on their openers. Punjab must win their remaining matches to give themselves a chance of seeking into the playoffs.

RCB vs PBKS IPL 2021 Match Details:

Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah

Date & Time: 3rd Oct, at 03:30 PM IST

Live Score:  Cricketaddictor 

RCB vs PBKS IPL 2021 Pitch Report:

The pitch of the Dubai International Cricket Stadium offers lots of assistance to pacers in the powerplay and wickets in hand will be key at this venue. as batting will become easier as the match progress.

RCB vs PBKS IPL 2021 Probable Playing XIs:

RCB: Virat Kohli (c), Devdutt Padikkal, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, George Garton, Harshal Patel, Dan Christian, Srikar Bharat (wk), Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal

PBKS: KL Rahul (c, wk), Mayank Agarwal, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Shahrukh Khan, Fabian Allen, Deepak Hooda, Nathan Ellis, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh

Top Picks for RCB vs PBKS IPL 2021 Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips:

RCB

Devdutt Padikkal has impressed the cricketing world with his aesthetic shots and also with his temperament. He was the Emerging Player of the Tournament in the last edition of the IPL and is extending his good run of form In 10 matches so far in this IPL, he has scored 309 runs at an average of 34.33.

Kona Srikar Bharat is getting pressure off from the other batters. RCB have found a reliable number 3 in him, and he is exceptional behind the stumps as well. In 3 innings in this IPL, Bharat has scored 92 runs, with the highest score of 44.

Glenn Maxwell is a dangerous customer with the bat and he is heading into this match on the back of 2 successive half-centuries. He is the leading run-scorer for RCB in this IPL with 350 runs in 10 innings and has picked up 3 wickets as well.

Harshal Patel has been the best bowler for the Bangalore side in the 2021 edition of the Indian T20 League. Patel is currently the highest wicket-taker in the tournament and has scalped a staggering 26 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 13.31.

PBKS

KL Rahul scored a match-winning 67 off 55 deliveries for the Punjab outfit in their encounter against Kolkata and helped his side win the match with 5 wickets to spare. Rahul has currently scored 489 runs in 11 innings in the 2021 edition of the Indian T20 League and has scored his runs at an average of 54.33.

Mayank Agarwal is a consistent performer for Punjab Kings at the top of the order. He likes to be busy at the crease and did really well for his 40 runs against Knight Riders. Overall in this tournament, he has scored 372 runs in 10 matches at an average of 41.33.

Ravi Bishnoi has been exceptional for Punjab. In the last game, he picked up two crucial wickets of Venkatesh Iyer and Rahul Tripathi. He can be the other good pick for this game.

Arshdeep Singh is the leading wicket-taker for Punjab Kings in this edition. In 10 matches, he has bagged 16 wickets at an economy of 7.71.

RCB vs PBKS IPL 2021 Must Picks for Dream11 Team Prediction:

Player Statistics (Last 5 matches) Dream 11 Points
Devdutt Padikkal  123 runs 12, 29, 95, 10, 58
Glenn Maxwell  127 runs + 3 wickets 2, 10, 42, 154, 74
Harshal Patel  46 runs + 9 wickets 40, 20, 57, 148, 83
KL Rahul   249 runs 132, 75, 36, 35, 87
Mayank Agarwal 242 runs 44, 141, 110, 9, 67
Arshdeep Singh 10 wickets 30, 161, 47, 4, 99

RCB vs PBKS IPL 2021 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices:

Captain – Devdutt Padikkal, Lokesh Rahul

Vice-Captain – Mayank Agarwal, Glenn Maxwell

Suggested Playing XI No.1 for RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Team:

Wicketkeeper– Lokesh Rahul, Kona Srikar Bharat

Batsmen–  Mayank Agarwal(vc), Aiden Markram, Devdutt Padikkal(c)

All Rounders–  Glenn Maxwell, Shahbaz Ahmed

Bowlers–  Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal

IPL 2021- RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team
IPL 2021- RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction

Suggested Playing XI No.2 for RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Team:

Wicketkeeper– Lokesh Rahul(c)

Batsmen–  Virat Kohli, A de Villiers, Shahrukh Khan, Devdutt Padikkal

All Rounders–  Glenn Maxwell(vc), Shahbaz Ahmed

Bowlers–  Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, Nathan Ellis

IPL 2021- RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team
IPL 2021- RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction

RCB vs PBKS IPL 2021 Probable Winner:

Royal Challengers Bangalore are expected to win this match of IPL 2021.

Disclaimer: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.

 

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KL Rahul
KL Rahul (Image Credit: Twitter)
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KL Rahul’s Disallowed Catch By 3rd Umpire A Shocking Decision: Gautam Gambhir

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KL Rahul anchored the chase for his team, scoring 67 off 55 as PBKS chased down the 166-run target with three balls to spare. However, things could have been different if KL Rahul had been given out in the penultimate over of the chase, but the third umpire made a huge call, deciding that KKR’s Rahul Tripathi had not taken the catch cleanly.

Punjab Kings remained in contention to qualify for the playoffs thanks to a five-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders in Dubai on Friday. The victory helped PBKS go level on 10 points with KKR and Mumbai Indians, who have a game in hand over both the teams.

Rahul Tripathi's catch was disallowed by the third umpire.© BCCI/IPL
Rahul Tripathi’s catch was disallowed by the third umpire.© BCCI/IPL

KL Rahul’s Disallowed Catch Was A Shocker: Gautam Gambhir

KL Rahul pulled a shortish Shivam Mavi delivery with Rahul Tripathi running in from the deep and diving forward to take a brilliant catch, or that’s what many thought. But the third umpire thought otherwise. Former cricketers Gautam Gambhir and Graeme Swann, speaking on Star Sports’ post-match show, tore into the third umpire. Ex-KKR captain Gautam Gambhir termed the decision a “shocker”.

“That was a shocker. This can end someone’s campaign. It was clearly out. He shouldn’t have even seen the replay more than once. Even without the slow-mo, it looked out. Things could have changed. We have seen Punjab panic in the last over. These sorts of shockers cannot happen, especially at the level of IPL. It could be very unfair not only to the player but to the entire franchise,” said Gambhir.

Gautam Gambhir AFP
Gautam Gambhir AFP

But the result could have been different had the third umpire deemed Rahul Tripathi’s catch as legal which would have seen the back of Rahul with Punjab needing 11 from 9 balls. The controversial moment occurred in the 19th over when KL Rahul hooked a short delivery from Shivam Mavi towards the mid-wicket boundary. Rahul Tripathi, who was stationed on the boundary line by Eoin Morgan, ran in to take the catch while diving forward.

Graeme Swann Witnessed One Of The Worst Bit Of 3rd Umpire’s Decision

Former England spinner Graeme Swann, didn’t mince his words either, calling the decision one of the “worst” third umpiring calls he had seen.

“I have just witnessed one of the worst bits of third umpiring in my life. That is blatantly out. Running in and taken a brilliant catch. That is superb. It’s out in full motion,” said Swann.

KL Rahul
KL Rahul (Image Credit: Twitter)
“That shouldn’t have been looked into anyway but they have looked at it, there is none of that silly soft signal anymore. The third umpire has somehow not got the cricketing knowledge to know that’s out. He’s looked at it from four or five angles that we saw up close and it never looked not out at any point. And yet he gave him not out. It’s terrible umpiring. That was just a joke.”

While KL Rahul was dismissed on the second ball of the final over, PBKS’ Shahrukh Khan kept his cool to get the team over the line. Eventually, Shah Rukh Khan, who scored an unbeaten nine-ball 22, smashed a six on the third delivery in the final over to seal a much-needed win for his team.

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MI vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team- IPL 2021
MI vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team- IPL 2021.
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IPL 2021- MI vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team, Playing XI, Pitch Report and Injury Update

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IPL 2021- MI vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Dream11 Team, and Injury Update of the match between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings.

MI vs PBKS IPL 2021 Match Preview:

Punjab Kings will lock horns with Mumbai Indians in the 42nd match of the Indian Premier League, at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on Tuesday.

Both teams are stuck on eight points with four wins and six losses in this tournament and are looking to make a late surge into the top four. MI seem to have lost their way in this UAE leg and have lost three games in a row. They have slipped to the seventh position on the points table.

On the other hand, Punjab Kings have fluffed multiple opportunities throughout this season, including one against RR where they failed to chase eight runs in the last two overs. However, they bounced back strongly as they beat SRH by five runs while defending 125.

MI vs PBKS IPL 2021 Match Details:

Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Date & Time: 28th Sep,  at 07:30 PM IST

Live Score:  Cricketaddictor 

MI vs PBKS IPL 2021 Pitch Report:

The pitch of Shaikh Zayed Cricket Stadium provides extra swing and bounce to pacers in initial overs the pitch could get a touch slower as the match progresses, bringing the spinners into play. both teams are likely to prefer batting first.

MI vs PBKS IPL 2021 Probable Playing XIs:

MI: Rohit Sharma (c), Quinton de Kock(wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Hardik Pandya, Adam Milne, Rahul Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult.

PBKS: KL Rahul (c, wk), Mayank Agarwal, Chris Gayle, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Deepak Hooda, Harpreet Brar, Ravi Bishnoi, Nathan Allis, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami

Top Picks for MI vs PBKS IPL 2021 Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips:

MI

Rohit Sharma is a very crucial batsman for MI, In the last match the skipper has got a flying start to his side with 43 runs knock. The hitman has scored 326 runs in nine games at an average of 36.22.

Quinton de Kock  The South Africa skipper and wicket-keeper batsman will be another crucial pick for MI in this match. He has been in sublime form with the bat as he has scored 251 runs in this IPL 2021.

Jasprit Bumrah  The Ace bowler for MI and team India is in spendid form with the ball. The right arm pacer has picked 8 wickets in just three matches in UAE leg. overall, he is the leading wicket taker for MI with 14 wickets in 10 matches.

Rahul Chahar has blown hot and cold in the last few games but he is a wicket-taking leg-spinner. He has picked 12 wickets at an economy rate of 7.46.

PBKS

KL Rahul will be top captaincy option in this match. The PBKS skipper has scored 401 runs at an average of 57.28 and a strike rate of 135.01 in this IPL 2021. Plus, he has a splendid record against MI of 443 runs in 7 matches at an average of 110.75.

Mayank Agarwal is well known for his adaptivity to any condition. Punjab King’s opening batter has mustered 332 runs in 9 matches in this IPL at an average of 41.5, including the highest score of 99*.

Aiden Markram  the South African batsman has been in good touch with the bat in this competition as he has scored 53 runs in two matches and he can also contribute with the ball if required.

Mohammed Shami  the premium fast bowler of India has been in brilliant form with the ball as he has scalped 13 wickets in nine games in the IPL 2021.

MI vs PBKS IPL 2021 Must Picks for Dream11 Team Prediction:

Player Statistics (Last 5 matches) Dream 11 Points
KL Rahul   240 runs 89, 33, 132, 75, 36
Mayank Agarwal  227 runs 35, 44, 141, 110, 9
Mohammed Shami 7 wickets 40, 29, -2, 95, 80
Rohit Sharma  188 runs 84, 20, 51, 45, 62
Quinton de Kock    213 runs 89, 96, 26, 79, 48
Jasprit Bumrah   10 wickets 43, 31, 55, 97, 89

MI vs PBKS IPL 2021 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices:

Captain – Quinton de Kock, Lokesh Rahul

Vice-Captain – Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma

Suggested Playing XI No.1 for MI vs PBKS Dream11 Team:

Wicketkeeper– Lokesh Rahul, Nicholas Pooran, Quinton de Kock (c)

Batsmen–  Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Aiden Markram

All Rounders– Hardik Pandya

Bowlers–  Mohammed Shami, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Nathan Ellis

IPL 2021- MI vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team
IPL 2021- MI vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction

Suggested Playing XI No.2 for MI vs PBKS Dream11 Team:

Wicketkeeper– Lokesh Rahul (c), Ishan Kishan

Batsmen–  Mayank Agarwal, Rohit Sharma (vc), Suryakumar Yadav, Aiden Markram

All Rounders– Hardik Pandya

Bowlers–  Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar, Ravi Bishnoi

IPL 2021- MI vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Dream11 Team
IPL 2021- MI vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction

MI vs PBKS IPL 2021 Probable Winner:

Mumbai Indians are expected to win this match of IPL 2021.

Disclaimer: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.

 

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