SPORTS

During MI's recent match against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings, their bowling unit faced a tough time. Despite utilizing seven different bowling options, players like Akash Madhwal, skipper Hardik Pandya, and Romario Shepherd struggled, conceding runs at an economy rate of over 12.

Presiding over the proceedings, Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Priyanka Rajpoot of Rouse Avenue Court decided to adjourn the pronouncement of the order, setting the next hearing for April 26.

The pitch, unfamiliar with its black-soil composition for this season, offered considerable assistance to the bowlers. Low bounce, sluggish pace, and subtle turn favored the DC bowlers, restricting GT to a mere 89 runs. Except for Kuldeep Yadav, who managed to resist, every DC bowler made significant contributions, with Kumar emerging as the standout performer.

During his court appearance, Slater, attired in prison attire, sat in the dock before collapsing to the ground upon the magistrate's refusal of his bail request. Assistance from prison officers was required to help him back on his feet, as per the ABC report. Since his arrest over the weekend, he has been held at the Maroochydore police watch house. Slater vehemently denies all accusations of violence against the complainant. His next court appearance is slated for May 31.

Reflecting on his return, Nadal acknowledged the challenges that come with age, stating, "Every time it is more difficult and especially when you are at an advanced age, it makes things even tougher." Despite facing tough moments, Nadal expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be back on the tour, practicing with fellow players, and competing once again. He emphasized the significance of being able to enjoy the sport enough to continue his journey.

In a recent encounter, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set a formidable target of 224 runs, powered by Sunil Narine's explosive century (109 off 56 balls). Despite RR's hopes of chasing the target, consistent wickets slowed their progress, leaving them at 128/6 in 14 overs, with boundaries becoming scarce.

Reflecting on his match-winning innings, Buttler emphasized the importance of maintaining faith in oneself, even during the most challenging moments. He acknowledged the influence of RR's Director of Cricket, Kumar Sangakkara, in reinforcing his self-belief and resilience on the field.

Buttler's blistering knock of 107 runs off just 60 balls, adorned with nine boundaries and six sixes, was a masterclass in counter-attacking batting. Despite a sluggish start and the early loss of key wickets, Buttler's partnership with Rovman Powell injected life into the chase, with Powell contributing a quickfire 26 off 13 balls.

Reflecting on the staggering run-fest, du Plessis remarked, "It’s remarkable the number of runs scored today, setting a world record. I wouldn’t consider 270 as the par score, Danny. Bowling on a day like this is challenging; we experimented with a few strategies, but they didn’t quite click."

Efforts to identify the attackers have led to the recognition of one individual as Vishal from Gurugram, and the other from Rajasthan, both purportedly associated with the Rohit Godara gang. Vishal, known as Kalu, has a criminal record, having served time in Delhi's Tihar Jail for thefts in 2020. While the police have identified the second shooter, they have refrained from disclosing further details at this stage.