Indian Cricket Team Updates |
- Sachin Tendulkar ends IPL career
- Would trade Orange Cap for Trophy: Michael Hussey
- Bowling at the death helped me: Dwayne Bravo
- One of the best days of my career: Aditya Tare
- This win is for Sachin Tendulkar: Ambati Rayudu
- We took the final as a fresh start: Dinesh Karthik
- Glad to win IPL on sixth attempt: Anil Kumble
- Eden magic continues for John Wright
- Ricky Ponting hails MI leadership group
- Getting wickets up front was the key: Mitchell Johnson
- I’ve enjoyed leading my side: Rohit Sharma IPL2013
- IPL has lifted fielding standards: Jonty Rhodes
- Team needed me to fire today: Kieron Pollard
- Glad to strike form in the final: Lasith Malinga
- Dwayne Smith hails the Caribbean power in IPL
- Rohit Sharma is a bowlers’ captain: Pragyan Ojha
- I’ve waited six years for this moment: Sachin Tendulkar
- IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics
- CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013
| Sachin Tendulkar ends IPL career Posted: 27 May 2013 02:49 AM PDT  Sachin Tendulkar enjoyed a "perfect ending" to his Indian Premier League career as he retired from the competition following Mumbai Indians' title-winning victory over Chennai Super Kings. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) The 40-year-old India superstar did not play last night in Kolkata because of a hand injury, but - moments after his side secured a 23-run victory - he announced he was to bow out of the IPL. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) His casual announcement came in an IPL pitchside interview shortly after the match when asked where the Mumbai Indians' maiden triumph rated in his long and illustrious career. "The World Cup I had to wait for 21 years, and this for six years, so it's never too late. This is my last IPL and it's perfect way to end IPL," he said, to the interviewer's apparent surprise. He added: "I've got to be realistic here, I've enjoyed my six seasons with Mumbai and it's been a fantastic journey, especially this season which was also superb. "I thought until now our third season was our best season, but this one is the icing on the cake." The 'Little Master' cited his age as a main factor while revealing it had not been a sudden decision but one he had already made. In quotes reported elsewhere, Tendulkar said: "I think this is the right time to stop playing. "I am 40. I have to face the reality. I had decided that this would be my last season." Tendulkar had announced his one-day international retirement towards the end of last year. source: ecb.co.uk | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Would trade Orange Cap for Trophy: Michael Hussey Posted: 27 May 2013 02:29 AM PDT  With each of his 733 runs in IPL 2013, Michael Hussey evoked a question in the minds of many. 'Why on earth did he retire from international cricket so early'? So prolific and fluent has he been in the young man's game that leaving the overwhelming and buzzing fresh batting talents behind, he walked away with the Orange Cap – presented to the highest run-getter in the tournament. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) Team man that he is, Hussey found little consolation in the individual reward as his team, Chennai Super Kings, fell short by 23 runs of their third IPL title. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) Gracious in defeat, the former Australian batsman spoke to IPLT20.com after the final. He talked about his team's shortcomings in the big game, lauded Mumbai Indians' performance and re-lived his favourite 2013 IPL moments. Is the Orange Cap a consolation? Not really. I'd give the Orange Cap back away for the Trophy definitely. It's quite an honour to have got it but it would have been nice to perform on the last day and in the big game. Isn't it a bit ironical that CSK played their most consistent cricket throughout this season and yet, you don't have a Trophy in the end? That's how the game goes, doesn't it? T20 cricket is such a fickle game. You've got to stay positive and philosophical about it. We've had a fantastic season and it's just unfortunate that we got beaten by a better team on the day and we couldn't get over the line. But we can still be very proud of our efforts throughout the course of this season. It's been brilliant. What went wrong with the batting today; on another day CSK would have chased down 150 without much fuss? We obviously got off to a very bad start, losing two wickets in the first over. That set the negative tone for us and then we just kept losing wickets; couldn't get a nice, busy partnership going, which would have given us a chance. Credit goes to the Mumbai Indians; they started very, very well with the ball and had us on the back foot right from the start. Talking about MI; they revamped their entire team management this year. How big a factor did that play in their resurgence? They have got some great people around who know cricket, who understand the game and know how winning teams work. Having quality people around definitely helps get results on the field. What is your most favourite performance from this IPL? We had great run-chases at home against the Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals. They were two very memorable victories for us. But personally, I really enjoyed the performances of obviously Chris Gayle getting a 175 but also David Miller's century. That innings of him was a real standout for me. CSK have always been good batting team. But the in-coming pacers have added a lot of value this season. Yes, we have always been a good batting team and it was a goal of the franchise to strengthen the fast bowling stocks and we have been able to do that. Mohit Sharma in particular has been fantastic over the course of the season and hopefully it gives him a lot of confidence going forward. Looking forward to the CLT20? Without a doubt, yes! It's just nice to be able to see each other more than once in a year. So, to get together as a team, from all parts of the world again after a few months should be really good fun. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bowling at the death helped me: Dwayne Bravo Posted: 27 May 2013 02:29 AM PDT  The Chennai Super Kings may have lost the IPL 2013 final to the Mumbai Indians, but they still can take heart in the fact that two of their own won both the Purple and Orange Caps. While Michael Hussey's exploits at the top of the order helped CSK on the batting front, it was Dwayne Bravo's wicket-taking form that deflated many an opposition line-ups. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) The newly appointed West Indies ODI captain was on song throughout the tournament and ended up claiming a staggering 32 wickets this season. He duly won the Purple Cap for his efforts. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) In an exclusive chat with IPLT20.com, Bravo mentioned how bowling in death overs gave him the freedom to change his pace and use more variations this year. Here are excerpts from his interview: What did you do different this year when it came to bowling? This year what I did different was bowl more overs at the death. I have to give credit to Mahi (MS Dhoni) for having faith in me. I always love the challenge of bowling in the latter stages of the game when batsmen tend to go for it. So, I change the pace and use variations. I am happy that I was able to produce results with the ball for the team at crucial moments. Along with taking wickets, you have become popular for your unique celebrations and dances as well. The celebrations and dances are all for the fans. We are entertainers, and we come here to give the fans their money's worth. I like having fun on the field. All of us West Indians, we tend to enjoy our cricket. That is part of our culture. You squared off against Kieron Pollard four times this season. You two compatriots seem to have a special rivalry brewing. I always love playing against Pollard. He is one of the best players in the world along with Gayle and Dhoni in this format of the game. So, there is a great competition between us and we never back down. I enjoy that competition we have. And it is great that he is part of a good side now. And credit to him the way he played in the final and in this IPL. Apart from Pollard, even other West Indians seem to have struck form during this IPL. This must please you as the West Indies ODI captain. All the West Indians did well this season. Darren Sammy, he came in late and still did well. Then there is of course Chris Gayle and Sunil Narine. It is a good tournament for us West Indians, and we hope to continue doing well and are looking forward to the next IPL. Right now, it is good to have so many West Indians in form ahead of the Champions Trophy. The shorter formats really suit us. And we just hope to come together as a team and try and bring these individual talents together and hope they perform the same way. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| One of the best days of my career: Aditya Tare Posted: 27 May 2013 02:13 AM PDT  For a youngster like Aditya Tare, playing under the watchful eyes of some of the most respected coaches itself provides an invaluable opportunity. Add to that the chance to fill in Sachin Tendulkar's shoes atop the Mumbai Indians order and you have the perfect baptism by fire for an up and coming cricketer. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) The 25-year-old showed a lot of promise during the handful of chances he got this year for MI. He even managed to score a remarkable half-century during one of his outings for the franchise. However, he was completely awestruck after his team won their first IPL title. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) "Winning the Ranji Trophy and the IPL this year is two of the best days of my career," said Tare during his post-game chat with IPLT20.com. Tare also relished the opportunity to replace the Little Master as one-half of MI's opening pair. "This is a big responsibility and I am glad that the support staff and the captain have put the faith in me to open the innings. I relish this opportunity and I just want to bat to the best of my ability," he said. Tare also looks forward to the invaluable advice Tendulkar offers him, both as his Ranji and MI teammate. "He is always talking to me about my game even in the Ranji team. He always shares whatever information he thinks is important to be shared with me," Tare said. He added that in a diverse set-up like MI's, even an experienced leader like Ricky Ponting offers great insight into the game. "He is a great leader even when he is not playing. He has been leading the side well in the dressing room. And I have learnt a lot from both Tendulkar and Ponting this year," he said Thanks to his stint with the Mumbai Indians, Tare says he has improved as a cricketer. Given that he has spent the last four years under some of the most brilliant minds in the game, he takes back a lot from his IPL experience. "I have learnt a lot from coaches like Shaun Pollock, John Wright, Robin Singh, Kiran More – he has helped me with my wicket-keeping – and Paras Mhambrey in the IPL." | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| This win is for Sachin Tendulkar: Ambati Rayudu Posted: 27 May 2013 02:09 AM PDT  Ambati Rayudu has been an understated, yet integral part of the Mumbai Indians line-up over the last few years. The 27-year-old batter has time and again steadied the MI innings and whenever need be, even unleashed big hits to steer his side to a favourable position. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) For him to finally get his hands around the IPL Trophy meant a culmination of four seasons of tireless efforts. "This is extraordinary! Four years of hard work. We have come so close before and were really very hungry for it. This is beyond words," Rayudu told IPLT20.com. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) He also pointed out that MI gained a lot of confidence from their first perfect home season. "I think the unbeaten run at home set the tone for the Playoffs," said Rayudu as he spoke about what boosted the team in the highly-competitive league. The MI batsman was also thrilled about winning the biggest prize in franchise cricket at one of the sport's most historic venues. "It is unbelievable how a packed Eden Gardens witnessed us. It is a dream. There is nothing better than this," he said. And finally, Rayudu dedicated MI's maiden IPL title to Sachin Tendulkar, the team's most iconic player, who has been a pillar for the franchise since the inception of the IPL. "I think he is the one who is the backbone of the team," Rayudu said. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| We took the final as a fresh start: Dinesh Karthik Posted: 27 May 2013 02:05 AM PDT  Mumbai Indians' successful title run in IPL 2013 was propelled by consistent performers in all three departments of the game. Dinesh Karthik was one such performer, who featured in all 19 games for the franchise and excelled both with bat and behind the wickets. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) The 27-year-old, who has been part of the MI squad for a couple of seasons, often came through in the middle order whenever his team was marred by an indifferent start with the bat. Capping off a good season with a league title, courtesy a win over the Chennai Super Kings seemed like a fitting end to his IPL 2013 campaign. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) "It has been a long journey for us. And it feels really good to be on the right side of the final result for the first time," Karthik said. "The Playoffs loss did not play on our minds. We took it as a fresh game. And we had beaten them twice, so obviously we knew that we could beat them again." Karthik also mentioned how MI had to be at their best against a solid outfit like CSK. "They played a real good game against us the last time. So we knew it was going to be a good contest. Playing CSK is always tough," he said while explaining his team's approach during the finals. The 'keeper-batsman scored a total of 510 runs in IPL 2013 and effected 14 sharp dismissals behind the wicket, thereby marking his best overall season in the league. "My own form has been really good. I am really glad about what I have helped Mumbai Indians achieve this IPL. It feels special and really good," he said. He added that the key to his success has been a calm mind. "I have also been working on my technique. My coach has given me a lot of confidence and inputs and I am glad it paid off in the end," Karthik said. Karthik stated that along with the 2007 World T20 triumph, the IPL win at the Eden Gardens is something he will 'cherish for a long time'. He even praised senior members of the MI set-up for guiding the side over the last couple of months. "Hats off to Anil Kumble, John Wright, Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar! They have been a part of this unit and they have been helping all of us throughout this tournament," he said. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Glad to win IPL on sixth attempt: Anil Kumble Posted: 27 May 2013 01:59 AM PDT  One of Mumbai Indians' early recruits ahead of IPL 2013 was their team mentor, Anil Kumble. It was also perhaps, their smartest move, to get on board a man who has tremendous understanding of the game of cricket on the whole and that of the IPL. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) After his illustrious international career, the former India captain has been involved in the IPL as a player, captain and mentor. He dons the administrator's hat too, thus enabling him of decision-making and planning right. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) MI's move to hire one of the shrewdest brains in Indian cricket paid rich dividends in the form of the IPL 2013 Trophy. We, at IPLT20.com, spoke with Anil Kumble about the process that went behind the closed doors of the dressing room to lead MI to their long-desired IPL title. The whole new leadership group, that MI put together, seems to have done wonders Our job was just to create an environment where players could go and play to their potential and the team has responded exceptionally well. I'm really glad that after five years, on sixth attempt –both as player and mentor – I have finally won an IPL Trophy. It's great to be on the winning side. With a team in abundance of wealth in their management group, how does the distribution of role work? We are all professionals and everybody understands their role. It's always nice to have some experienced heads working together. Did it help as the team mentor that there was already a good relationship with the coach? Oh, yes, of course! As soon as I became the team mentor the first call I made was to John (Wright) to find out whether he was available to coach and he readily agreed. We have a good partnership and we know each other well since our Team India days. The next job was to choose a leader and Ricky (Ponting) was the obvious choice. With Sachin there, it all seemed complete. The owners too have been great and it's been fantastic for us. What has been the biggest contribution of Ricky Ponting to the team? His leadership has been brilliant. It's never easy when you're nominated as the captain and you have to sit out of games. It's not been easy for him too but he has handled it commendably. His experience of being part of winning Australian teams has certainly helped. He knows how to motivate the players and what exactly to say to the players. How much have you been involved with the spinners in the team? I have passed on whatever little information I have about playing in the IPL and bowling in T20. I have tried to encourage both Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh) and (Pragyan) Ojha to bowl to their best. I'm glad that they have done well and helped us win. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Eden magic continues for John Wright Posted: 27 May 2013 01:54 AM PDT  For John Wright Eden Gardens brings back memories of one of India's most famous Test wins – against Australia in 2001. As coach of that spirited Indian side, Wright was managing the show in the background much like he was during the Mumbai Indians' maiden IPL title win on Sunday. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) Both wins came after Wright's team got off to bad starts. And in both instances, Harbhajan Singh weaved his magic to see the team through, rather emphatically in the end. No little wonder then that coach Wright ranks both wins 'right next' to each other. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) In a brief chat with IPLT20.com, the former India, and current MI, coach spoke about winning an IPL title in his first season in the league. Here are excerpts from his interview: On leading MI to their maiden IPL title It is an amazing feeling. It is unbelievable! It is the big league, and there are tough games in it. I always wanted to come here and experience it as a coach. I am just thrilled for the franchise and everyone involved. I am so thrilled for the boys. They have worked very hard. We have tried to create an environment, so they can go out and express themselves and fight hard. We have played well as a team and have really come together, particularly in our fielding and our bowling. We had to hustle on Sunday night. We had a pretty tough start and we managed to get 148, which was good. On his approach with MI this season We have worked hard to be together. We wanted to be aggressive, we tried to be fearless. To get our bowling combinations right, we had to make tough decisions early in the tournament and we went with two overseas bowlers in Malinga and Johnson. They have been magnificent along with our spinners. A brief overview of MI's season Winning all home games was a great achievement. We enjoy playing at home. It is always great to play in front of your home fans. But the challenge is in winning away. We went to Delhi and we got well beaten by CSK. And then we got into the final and we were just looking forward to this match to have another go at them. On the Eden connection Eden Gardens has been so wonderful to me. I will never forget 2001 against Australia. This one ranks right next to it! source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ricky Ponting hails MI leadership group Posted: 27 May 2013 01:49 AM PDT  A few days back, Dinesh Karthik told this website that Ricky Ponting was the best thing to have happened to Mumbai Indians. One thing that all the MI players vouch for is the positivism that the most successful Australian captain has brought into the camp. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) He played no more than six matches in IPL 2013, but Ponting's involvement with the team was unmistakable every time he stepped on the field during a timeout. And in the end, the three-time World Cup winning captain, along with some stellar names in mentoring – John Wright and Anil Kumble – fulfilled a dream that the Mumbai franchise have harboured for the last six years. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) As the glittering IPL Trophy went into the MI dressing room, Ponting took time out to talk to IPLT20.com about his role in the team and how he, along with the team coach and mentor, helped MI become the 2013 IPL champions. In your first year as the Mumbai Indians leader you have won them the Trophy! It's been a great experience for me but I can't take any credit for what the guys have done on the field. We have played some very good cricket throughout the tournament. Yes, we've had our high and low points but that's what T20 cricket is all about. I along with the coaches just kept reinforcing that belief and the positivism in the guys. We just encouraged them to play with freedom and not have any doubts of second thoughts. To the boys' credit they've been able to do that. Sunday's performance, particularly with the ball, was the best we've had in the tournament. You know a thing or two about winning trophies, having won three World Cups for Australia. But it must be a unique experience for you to win a tournament like this? Yes! I said at the start of the tournament that coming into an IPL team and trying to bring all the different cultures together can be difficult because the group doesn't get together until just before the tournament starts. That's probably the biggest challenge we faced but I, John (Wright) and Anil (Kumble) made sure that we kept working hard towards keeping the team together. We've played the tournament like one team and not individuals. We are all really pleased and proud of what we have done and the boys have a good reason to celebrate. What do Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar talk about in their spare time? Just about cricket! It's just really great sitting with him on the bench watching the game unfold. We talk about what we might do in this situation and what we would do if we were captain. Because we have both played so much cricket; we have a lot of understanding of the game and we share that with each other. Obviously I would have preferred to be out playing the game but just to be around this group of people and to be able to achieve something that hasn't been done by the Mumbai Indians before has been very satisfying. This is probably the first time you have worked with John Wright. What is the best thing about his coaching style? He keeps things very simple. He relies on the players and the leaders around the team to make sure the players are well prepared. He doesn't really talk too much; the team meetings are short, sharp and to the-point. That's where I have been involved as well; making sure that all the planning is how it should be and all our tactics are in place for each game. You and Anil Kumble are both leaders with very strong personalities. How has it been working with him? We have worked together – all three of us, Anil, John and myself. We ensured the players are fully prepared when they step on the field. Anil has done a terrific job. The idea behind having the three of us together was to have a strong leadership group around the team. We're glad that we could get the players to do what they have done. I'm sure we have done our owners proud. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Getting wickets up front was the key: Mitchell Johnson Posted: 27 May 2013 12:37 AM PDT  In just his first season in the IPL, Mitchell Johnson made quite an impression on the opening batsmen who were left with the tough task of facing him. Generating pace, bounce and movement, the Mumbai Indians' strike bowler made sure his probing deliveries left batters around the league clueless and got him 24 wickets – the joint highest for MI alongside Harbhajan Singh. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) Johnson bowling with the intention of taking wickets up front ensured that MI were always in the contest, no matter how modest a total they were defending. This was evident in the final as well, when he bowled yet another testing first spell to pin down the strong Chennai Super Kings top order. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) Here's what the MI pacer had to say to IPLT20.com about his exploits this season. On winning the title This victory rates very highly. I am really proud of what the team has achieved this IPL – my first IPL. And to beat the Chennai Super Kings after being beaten by them in the Playoffs is amazing. So, this is a very proud moment and a very happy moment and I am sure we are going to celebrate really hard. On his bowling strategy All I was trying to do was try and get wickets up front. And on most occasions I could do it early on by swinging the ball. And in the final, it all counts. So, I am glad it happened again. It has been a great tournament for us. We have had a very good bowling unit with me being the strike bowler. On MI going 3-0 at the Eden Gardens this year I sort of said it to myself today, 'We've got to try and think of it as a home ground.' We have done well here. We are used to the wicket, and were pretty happy with playing the final here. I guess you could say it was like our second home ground. We have done very well at home and we really like playing in Mumbai. But the crowd here was also very supportive and loud, and they got right into the game as well. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| I’ve enjoyed leading my side: Rohit Sharma IPL2013 Posted: 27 May 2013 12:32 AM PDT  Rohit Sharma's leadership was one of the cornerstones of Mumbai Indians' successful IPL 2013 campaign. The stylish batsman was handed the captaincy in the early stages of the season, and far from buckling under pressure he managed to make the most of the opportunity on offer. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) Along the way, the 26-year-old was ably guided and backed by experienced MI players, coaches and support staff. In an exclusive interview with IPLT20.com, Rohit Sharma speaks of how all the pieces fell in place for the IPL 2013 champions under his leadership. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) On the finals and what it meant to him The way we performed shows the character of the team. It was not an easy victory and I am really happy. I would like to thank each and everyone as we stuck it out. This is for the people of Mumbai who have been coming and supporting us over five years. And, of course, it's also for the fans of Mumbai Indians across the globe. On winning with his hometown team It is simply amazing to win the IPL title with Mumbai, my hometown. I have no words to describe this feeling. I am happy because our owners are really passionate about this game and they wanted us to win. They helped us in all possible ways. I would like to dedicate this victory to them. On stepping into the role of captain It was tough when we changed our captain. It was not easy to come in suddenly to do the job. But I have really enjoyed this role since the moment Ricky stepped down and I was handed the captaincy. I knew the responsibility would fall on my shoulders since I was vice captain for two years. On the backing he received from his seniors The support from Ricky Ponting from beyond the boundary was superb. And it was not just Ricky Ponting, but everybody else as well. Right from John Wright to our masseur… they were really fantastic. I would like to mention Robin Singh as he has been working day in and day out with all of us. Anil Kumble was brilliant and so was our support staff. We just stuck together as a team, which is really important in this format. On Sachin Tendulkar finally winning the elusive IPL title Yes, this was the only trophy he did not have. Now he is happy. You could see how excited he was when we won. That shows what this win means to him. On MI's successful run at the Eden Gardens We have always done well in Kolkata. We have had an outstanding record here over the last six years. Plus, the people of Kolkata are really amazing. They have been supporting us. Even when we play against KKR, we get some support. On his own form this season I am happy with my overall form, but I am a little bit disappointed with my performance in the Playoffs. But it happens sometimes. I was focusing on getting my team in shape for this challenge. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| IPL has lifted fielding standards: Jonty Rhodes Posted: 27 May 2013 12:26 AM PDT  For a generation of cricket lovers the name 'Jonty Rhodes' is synonymous with the art of fielding. After all, not many cricketers can claim to have won an ODI Man of the Match award just for their performance on the field. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) Now, the legendary South African fielder teaches the tricks of his trade to the mélange of players from all over the world in the Mumbai Indians camp. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) In a chat with IPLT20.com after MI's first IPL title victory, Rhodes credited the league for lifting the standard of fielding several notches. Finally an IPL title under your belt! Yes! We were in the final in 2010 and lost to CSK. So it is nice to turn it around this time. We've had some ups and downs and disappointments but we've finally got our first IPL title. We won the CLT20 two years ago and it is nice to add an IPL Trophy to that. Would you say that this is the best MI has played in an entire season as compared to the previous ones? Yes, 11 wins out of 16 league matches is not bad. Two or three games that we lost were such that we should have won. I think overall this has been a consolidated team effort. At the start of the season Dinesh Karthik played very well, Rohit Sharma and Ambati Rayudu chipped in, Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Smith too had their contributions. We had Mitchell Johnson and Lasith Malinga; Pragyan Ojha and Harbhajan Singh bowled really well. Our fielding performance has been amazing and so has the batting. So, an all round, great team effort. The bowling in particular stepped up when it mattered most, didn't it? Yes, I think batting second in the final is difficult. We experienced that in 2010 against CSK when we couldn't get past a chaseable total. A final does funny things to guys. No matter how many times you've been there, it's a matter of trying to get the job done on that day. CSK have a very good batting lineup and the key for us was to keep taking wickets. I don't think CSK panicked at all. They just got some very good bowling – Malinga's and Mitch's first overs were brilliant. How happy are you as the team's fielding coach? It was the beauty of this tournament. Pollard kept taking those brilliant catches for us. He caught MS Dhoni on the boundary in our first game. Against Kings XI Punjab he caught Shaun Marsh one-handed. But it hasn't just been the international players – Ambati Rayudu did well, Rishi Dhawan, on his debut, took two great catches. Even Ojha, who is not the fastest guy on the field and he'd be the first one to admit it. Everybody has backed it up. As the fielding coach that's all I want. I am not expecting 11 Ricky Pontings. If Malinga to Bhajji to Rayudu are doing their best, that's all I can ask for. Overall, do you think the standard of fielding went really high this year? Oh, it a real asset what the IPL has done. If you look at the most stunning catches this season, it's not only the international players but young Indian players who are coming through. Look at the CSK team –I watch them in marvel. I told Suresh Raina that I love watching him play. He's so busy in the field. Jadeja with his arm, Virat Kohli, who affected two direct hits against us in Mumbai – these Indian guys have a great future ahead of them and the standard of fielding through out has improved and the IPL has done that. In a long tournament like this, is it possible to pick one match or moment that changed things around for the team? I think for us it came here in Kolkata, against the Kolkata Knight Riders. We had lost two on the road, against DD and RR, and coming here, we chased down 160 on a typical Eden Gardens wicket. I think that really turned things around for us because it was a win away from home against the odds when we needed one desperately to get back our campaign back on track. Guys speak about different moments but for me that game stood out. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Team needed me to fire today: Kieron Pollard Posted: 27 May 2013 12:21 AM PDT  There is no doubt that Kieron Pollard has been one of the most important players in the Mumbai Indians set-up this year. The all-rounder has not only shone with bat and sometimes with ball, but he has been a game-changer with his exceptional fielding as well. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) From plucking certain sixes in midair on the field to crafting championship-winning innings, Pollard gave his 100 percent in all departments this season. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) In an exclusive chat with IPLT20.com, this is what the West Indian all-rounder had to say about his half century against the Chennai Super Kings and winning the coveted IPL title for the first time. MI have come close before and finally with your help they got their hands around the IPL Trophy This is a great feeling! I have been playing for the Mumbai Indians for four years and to get this opportunity and to be able to pull it off, it is fantastic. It is something I will cherish forever. What were you thinking when you went in to bat with MI reeling at 52/4? Nothing much was going on in my mind when wickets were tumbling. I just wanted to focus on my game. I just wanted to back myself and my ability. I know what the team needed from me at that point in time. These are the games that you have to win for your franchise and thank God it came off and we actually won! This season, your fielding alone gave MI a leg up in many contests. Have you been focusing on any particular drills? I have not really been doing anything extra for my fielding. I just feel it is important to give your best each and every time you go on the field. And if you don't score runs or take wickets, you have the opportunity to make up for it in the field. At least, that is the way I look at it. I just want to contribute in all three departments. To me, if I don't contribute in either one of these departments, then I think I have failed. You have won three finals over the last one year. You seem to be making a habit of winning It is a fantastic feeling. So far I have been in three finals over the last year. First it was the World T20 finals; then I was in the finals for my Club back home - we (Trinidad & Tobago) won that and qualified for the Champions League (CLT20), before I got here and now the IPL. And that is what I was talking about before this final, that I have been in two winning finals before and I just wanted to keep that record going. And now in the next few days, we have another important tournament coming up, the Champions Trophy. We (West Indies) are looking forward to that as well. Dwayne Bravo is going to be our captain, and we are really enthusiastic about it and let us see if we (West Indies) can play good cricket and come out on top over there as well. Speaking of Bravo, you two seem to be enjoying your rivalry? Yes, of course. I bring out my best against Bravo. He is my good friend, and we have a big rivalry going on. So, when we chat, we talk about how many championships he has won as compared to how many I have. I am neck and neck with him since I have won the IPL now. But he just told me that he has won the Champions Trophy as well. So I told him, 'Don't worry both of us can now go and win that!' Finally, what do you have to say to all the MI fans who consider you a cult hero? I would like to thank the Mumbai crowd. The support of the Mumbai fans, and fans all over India have been spectacular. This would not be possible without them. And hopefully, each and every time I come back to India, it will be the same great feeling. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Glad to strike form in the final: Lasith Malinga Posted: 27 May 2013 12:12 AM PDT  Over the last few years, Lasith Malinga's name has been synonymous with the Mumbai Indians. The Sri Lankan Slinger has been the sharpest weapon in the MI arsenal with all the timely, unplayable yorkers that he is known to dish out. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) However, this year Slinga Malinga had a relatively sedate season as per his own high standards. But come the IPL 2013 final, the veteran pacer did not disappoint. Eager to nudge his side over the line, Malinga gave MI the kind of start they had grown accustomed to in previous seasons. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) "Until this match, I did not do anything for the team. So, I am really happy I did something special today in the first over itself," said Malinga about the two crucial wickets – of Michael Hussey and Suresh Raina – he claimed up front. According to the pacer, his bowling had somehow not clicked this season until the big game on Sunday. "Nothing much was different today. I had tried to do everything till now but I did not get good results. I always try to do my best, and that is why I feel great that I did something for the team today," said an ecstatic Malinga. His excitement was of course resulting from the fact that after coming close in previous years, MI were finally able to strike gold in the IPL. "It is a really good feeling. The thing is that over the past few years we have tried very hard but did not get the cup. But today that we have won it, I am really happy," he said. Malinga also made a special mention of all the MI fans, who are known to drown the Wankhede Stadium with rhythmic chants of 'Malinga,' 'Malinga' every time their curly-haired hero comes on to bowl. "The fans there love cricket. I really like playing in India so much. I have been really happy playing for the Mumbai Indians," he said. While Malinga may have blown hot and cold this season, he still managed to become the first bowler in the IPL to cross the 100-wicket mark. "I am really happy that I have played in the IPL for five years. I have 103 wickets now and I am the first bowler in the IPL to get to 100 wickets. Every year I am getting 20-odd wickets and I am just happy about my performance overall," said Malinga, who got 20 scalps this year as well. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dwayne Smith hails the Caribbean power in IPL Posted: 27 May 2013 12:08 AM PDT  This season of IPL has seen some superlative cricketing performances with bat, ball and in the field. And some of the most entertaining ones have come from the swaggering Caribbean contingent. Be it Chris Gayle's incredible willow-wielding, Dwayne Bravo dancing his way to the purple cap or Kieron Pollard plucking those stunners out of thin air – the Caribbean magic was on full view for the last two months. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) Two of the West Indians kept their region's flag flying high till the very end of the tournament. Dwayne Smith and Pollard played significant roles in taking the Mumbai Indians to their maiden IPL title, with a 23-run win over Chennai Super Kings at the Eden Gardens. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) Smith, one half of the opening pair that replaced the Sachin Tendulkar-Ricky Ponting duo, scored 418 runs in 13 matches with four fifties. He couldn't take the smile off his face, chatting to iplt20.com as part of the Pepsi IPL 2013 winning team. Smith spoke about the promises he made with his Caribbean mates and how they fulfilled them. Isn't this what you have been waiting to experience in your career? Yes. I watched the team lose the 2010 final and tonight I am so glad to be part of the winning team. Before the game I was talking to (Kieron) Pollard that one of us has to be the Man of the Match today. When I got out, I told him, 'I didn't do it so you will have to win this for us and I know you will.' He came out trumps and I love that. Where does this IPL triumph stand in your career? Oh, it's up there. This is my first major final that I've played in and I've come out as a winner. I'm so happy. You didn't do it today but you were a key performer for the team throughout the season. Replacing the Tendulkar-Ponting pair at the top of the order I had nothing to lose. I just had to go out there, back myself and be positive in everything I do. It came good at times and I'm glad it resulted in us winning the tournament. How was it being captained by one of the most successful international captains, in Ricky Ponting? It was amazing. Even when he wasn't playing he always had something positive to say and that helped the team to no end. He was always involved, was out on the field during every strategic timeout and he kept us all together. How has it been working with John Wright? Apart from him being really nervous during the games, he's been very good. He's very inspirational and it's been great working with not only him but the entire leadership group including Ponting, Kumble, Jonty Rhodes and Robin Singh. The West Indian guys have rocked this IPL! Yes, at the beginning of the tournament I talked to Chris (Gayle) and we said, 'at least one of us has to make it to the final and make we end up winning'. It's good to fulfill that promise and I am glad that all the West Indian players have performed well throughout. Will the Caribbean boys plan a grand IPL party back home? Some of the guys will go to the England for the Champion Trophy and I go back to Barbados and then join Sussex later in June. But hopefully some day we can all come together, talk about the IPL and celebrate together. Have you worked on your dance moves for the victory party? We West Indians don't have to work on our dance moves because we always have them! source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Rohit Sharma is a bowlers’ captain: Pragyan Ojha Posted: 26 May 2013 11:46 PM PDT  Throughout the season, Mumbai Indians' skipper, Rohit Sharma, has marshaled his troops like a veteran. In just his first full-time leadership role at the top level, the 26-year-old managed the array of world-class bowlers at his disposal with aplomb. This was especially evident when he brought in Pragyan Ojha in the middle overs to decisively tilt the IPL 2013 Final in MI's favour. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) The left-arm spinner repaid his skipper's faith with the wicket of Albie Morkel, thereby neutralising the potential threat of the South African all-rounder mounting a comeback with the hard-hitting MS Dhoni. "I think it was a very crucial wicket as these two guys (Morkel and Dhoni) would have made a lot of difference and getting them out at a crunch time was extremely vital," Ojha said. (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) The spinner credited his captain for such well-timed bowling changes and tactics, which saw MI win their maiden IPL title. "I think Rohit is very calm. He knows what to do and he does not react much. So, he is very good while managing things on the field. And most importantly, he is a bowlers' captain," said Ojha while lauding Sharma's calculated approach. However, Ojha also played a crucial role with the bat in the final when he somehow managed to hand Kieron Pollard the strike with two balls left in the MI innings. Just when it seemed like Dwayne Bravo was destined to bowl a magical last over, Pollard struck him for two massive sixes that took MI's total to a challenging 148. "When I came to bat, I just kept thinking that I have to give Pollard a single because in two balls you never know what happens. And then after I took the single, he got those 12 runs and it made a big difference," Ojha said. Meanwhile, he also lauded the entire MI set-up for gelling well throughout IPL 2013. "It was an outstanding season. We played like a team. Everyone was backing each other; everyone trusted one another's abilities. And this season was special right from the start. "And in a big game like this when two of the best sides are playing and you want to be the better team, you have got to play as a unit and back each other. That is because this game is played with 11 players," he said. Ojha was also thrilled to win his second IPL title – his first one came back in 2009 with the Deccan Chargers. "I am lucky enough to be part of a winning side twice. The feeling is just awesome. And to do it in front of the Eden Gardens crowd, nothing can be better than that," Ojha said. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| I’ve waited six years for this moment: Sachin Tendulkar Posted: 26 May 2013 11:36 PM PDT  He cheered every wicket when the Chennai Super Kings were batting. When Mumbai Indians' win was a ball away, he was the first one to jump off his seat in the dugout and jump onto the field to celebrate with his victorious team-mates. (Also Read: CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013) Even while talking to IPLT20.com after the match, he kept looking at the trophy. Finally, pointing towards it, he said, "I can't wait to get my hands on that trophy"! (Also See: IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics) After spending 23 years playing cricket at the highest level, accumulating almost every individual batting record in the sport, being part of world's No.1 Test team and winning the ODI World Cup, Sachin Tendulkar remains a wide-eyed cricket lover. The enthusiasm of the 40-year-old is so genuine, it can make some of his awestruck teenage fans look jaded. Excerpts from our chat with him: What does this moment mean to you? I have waited for this for six years and six years is a long time. But it's never too late. This has been an outstanding season for us; we have thoroughly enjoyed every moment with each other. It's been really solid. The goal for this season was to win the trophy and I am glad that we have been able to do that. You were the captain when MI last reached the IPL final in 2010. Was this like déjà vu for you? It was good to reach the final but this year we made it till the end. Whoever is the captain, it doesn't matter as long as we lift the trophy. That is what you play for and Sunday was that moment. It's a different feeling to get your hands on that trophy and I can't wait to celebrate with the team. We've really worked hard for it. After two and a half months of sheer hard work we have been able to win this trophy ours. It's a wonderful feeling. With the likes of John Wright, Anil Kumble and Ricky Ponting coming in, did it take a bit of pressure off you as far as mentoring was concerned? Yes, it helps having such great former players working with the team and guiding them. Even earlier we had some good leaders and this year has been fantastic. As far as my pressure goes, it is always there (smiles). I'm always under pressure to go out and deliver, irrespective of whether I am a captain or just another player. You have your expectations and you want to do your best. You want to deliver at every occasion. What do two greatest batsmen of their era talk to each other when they play for the same team? (Laughs). Unfortunately, we didn't spend much time together batting in the middle and I would have loved to do that. I knew Ricky a bit before the IPL, sitting in the opposition tent. Here we sat in the same tent. We have spent some quality time with each other in the evenings, having casual dinners and during the pre and post-match discussions. It's really worked well and he is a fantastic guy. Has he brought that Australian-ness with him in the team? He has. We have got guys from West Indies, New Zealand and all over the world. Even from India we have guys from all parts of the country. We have been lucky to have developed a strong bonding between different cultures and that brings the best in us. source: iplt20.com | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| IPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics Posted: 26 May 2013 11:11 PM PDT Mumbai Indians clinched their first IPL Trophy as they defeated Chennai Super Kings by a convincing 23-run margin in the Pepsi IPL 2013 final at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on 26th May 2013. source: iplt20.com Thanks BCCIIPL 2013 Winner Mumbai Indians Celebrations - Pics
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| CSK vs MI - Final Report & Stats: IPL 2013 Posted: 26 May 2013 11:37 PM PDT Match Report: Mumbai Indians clinched their first IPL Trophy as they defeated Chennai Super Kings by a convincing 23-run margin in the Pepsi IPL 2013 final at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday night. Batting first, MI posted 148 after opting to bat first before their bowlers restricted CSK to 125.
Chasing 149, Lasith Malinga drew first blood in the very first over as he uprooted Michael Hussey's (1) leg-stump with a toe-crushing Yorker before having Suresh Raina (0) caught by Dwayne Smith at backward square-leg. Mitchell Johnson had Subramaniam Badrinath caught behind to leave CSK reeling at 3 for 3 in the second over. Murali Vijay smashed two boundaries off Johnson as CSK started to rebuild. Vijay was given a chance as Dinesh Karthik dropped him on 14, before Dwayne Bravo (15) perished, caught by Johnson off Pragyan Ojha.
Ravindra Jadeja (0) was caught in the deep by Kieron Pollard off Harbhajan Singh as CSK lost half their side for 36. The collapse continued as Vijay (18) miscued a pull shot off Johnson to be caught by Rohit Sharma. Albie Morkel launched Harbhajan for a six in the ninth over. CSK at the halfway stage were 54 for 6, still requiring 95 more. Ojha, introduced into the attack in the eleventh over, bowled Morkel (10) with his sixth ball before Harbhajan had Chris Morris (0) edge one to the keeper to leave CSK eight down in the twelfth over. MS Dhoni slapped Ojha for a six in the 13th over before launching another one in the 15th. Needing 66 from 30 balls, Dhoni smashed Pollard for a six. Ravichandran Ashwin (9) fell in the 18th over, caught off Pollard to all but knockout CSK's hopes. Dhoni hit a couple of sixes in the final over but CSK eventually fell 23 runs short.
Earlier, MI won the toss and elected to bat. MI were rocked early as Mohit Sharma struck in the first over trapping Smith (4) leg before. Aditya Tare (0) followed him with Morkel landing a toe-crusher to break his leg stump. It only got worse as Rohit Sharma was caught and bowled by Morkel to leave MI reeling at 16 for 3 in the fourth over. Karthik was given a reprieve on 13 when Bravo put him down off Mohit Sharma. Ambati Rayudu showed some fight hitting two boundaries off Morkel in the sixth over.
Karthik (21) dragged a Chris Morris delivery back onto his leg-stump to leave MI four down at the half-way stage. Pollard smashed Ashwin for a six in the twelfth over before hitting two boundaries off Jadeja in the 15th. Bravo then knocked over Rayudu's (37) stump. Harbhajan Singh hit three boundaries off Bravo before holing out to Hussey. Rishi Dhawan (3) was then run out in the 19th over. Bravo had Johnson (1) and Malinga (0) caught behind before Pollard (60*) smoked a couple of sixes in the last over to help MI reach 148 for 9.
Man-of-the-Match: Kieron Pollard Brief Scores: Mumbai Indians 148 for 9 in 20 overs (Kieron Pollard 60*, Dwayne Bravo 4-42) defeated Chennai Super Kings 125 for 9 in 20 overs (MS Dhoni 63*, Harbhajan Singh 2-14) by 23 runs.
Stats Highlights: 1: Mumbai Indians won the IPL title for the first time. They had lost to Chennai Super Kings by 22 runs in the 2010 final. 1: Chennai Super Kings suffered their first loss in a chase with MS Dhoni at the crease! 3: Number of players to accomplish the all-round double of 1000 runs and 50 wickets in IPL. Kieron Pollard emulated Jacques Kallis and Irfan Pathan. 4: For 42 – Dwayne Bravo's figures in the match – best by any bowler in an IPL final on Indian soil. R Ashwin had taken 3 for 16 in 2011 edition (incidentally Anil Kumble's 4 for 16 for Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Deccan Chargers at Johannesburg in 2009 are the best figures by a bowler in any IPL final). 6: Number of ducks recorded in the match – second most in an IPL match. Seven batsmen were dismissed for duck in Deccan Chargers vs Kochi Tuskers Kerala match at Kochi in 2011. 18: Number of sixes conceded by Dwayne Bravo in IPL 2013 – most by any bowler. 22: Number of consecutive innings in which Dwayne Bravo has taken a wicket in IPL – the longest sequence for a bowler in IPL. 26: Number of times Lasith Malinga has dismissed batsmen on ducks in IPL – most by a bowler. 32: Number of wickets taken by Dwayne Bravo in IPL 2013 – most by any bowler in a single IPL tournament. He went ahead of Lasith Malinga and James Faulkner who took 28 wickets in 2011 and 2013 editions respectively. 90: Number of sixes conceded by Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2013. Only Deccan Chargers (96 in 2012) and Kings XI Punjab (93 in 2008) conceded more sixes in a single edition of IPL. 273: The match aggregate is the lowest in an IPL final. The 2009 final between Deccan Chargers and Royal Challengers Bangalore had produced 280 runs. 510: Runs scored by Dinesh Karthik in IPL2013 – most by a wicketkeeper in a single edition of IPL. The previous record was of 495 runs held by Adam Gilchrist for Deccan Chargers in 2009.
Presentation Saina Nehwal's a part of the presentation party. N Srinivasan's there too. Kieron Pollard wins the man of the match award. Pollard: Good to play some of your best cricket against the best IPL team. I thank my family and the crowd for backing us. I have to try and take responsibility and it came off today. Mumbai, Punjab and Rajasthan have shared the best ground and pitch award for five or more games. Gurkeerat Singh wins the catch of the tournament, a diving catch at fine-leg off a Ross Taylor hook. Sanju Samson wins the best young player of the tournament award. Samson: Feel very lucky to be a part of Rajasthan, allowed them to express myself. Great experience to bat with 'Rahul sir', or Hodge or Watson. Chennai Super Kings win the Fairplay Award. Michael Hussey wins the Orange Cap. Dwayne Bravo wins the Purple Cap. Hussey: Good fun but couldn't do the business on the final-day. Thoroughly enjoyed playing for CSK and hopefully can continue playing for them. Bravo: Thanks to the fans for coming for the game, congratulations to Mumbai Indians, unfortunately for us we came out second. Good to know Dhoni trusted my ability and I enjoyed the challenge. Shane Watson wins the MVP award. 386 points for him, which is apparently more than all others. Stephen Fleming collects the runner-up award. I think we are getting closer to the end now...thanks for your patience. MS Dhoni comes up to collect the runner-up cheque. Dhoni: I think the batting department failed, Huss and Raina got out to good balls but the rest of them played some bad shots. Was important to get some partnership going but did not. Think we did well to restrict them to 148 because we had the depth in our batting. First time we weren't under pressure going into the last stage of the league matches. John Wright comes up to collect the winner's award. And now Rohit Sharma comes up to collect the winner's cheque for Rs.10 crores. Rohit Sharma: Captaincy was a good challenge and it's been a great experience and a learning curve. We knew we haven't won the title for the last five years but this time we were very determined, credit goes to all the players and staff involved. Plan was to bowl our strike bowler at their best batsmen. I want to thank everyone who supported us. Rohit and Ricky Ponting collect the trophy from the BCCI President, N Srinivasan. ...in the favour of Mumbai Indians, who have won their first ever IPL! This has been the most convincing win too! Lot of dancing, with Harbhajan Singh leading them from the front! Karthik calls it one of the happiest days of his life. Ojha calls it an outstanding feeling to have won the IPL for the second time (after winning it for the Deccan Chargers). Ojha, on his sprint after getting the wicket of Morkel, says he wanted to prove a point that he can bowl to left-handers. The Mumbai Indians are on a lap of honour with Sachin Tendulkar being lifted by his players yet again. Anil Kumble says his role was to keep the environment good in the dressing room. Credits John Wright as well, who says he's delighted for the boys. Wright also calls it a tough, two-month long tournament and adds the team got stronger as the tournament progressed. Wright credits Ricky Ponting, Robin Singh and Nitin Patel and all his backroom staff for the win. Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting in an interview now. Tendulkar says this was going to be his last IPL! That's a big announcement! Ponting says he was looking to keep up with the younger guys in the team. Lasith Malinga and Mitchell Johnson now. Johnson says he enjoyed himself, especially bowling with 'Mali'. Calls it a great feeling to have won his first edition of the IPL. Malinga admits he did not do much earlier last two games but is happy to have bowled well in the final. Harbhajan joins the duo now and says he's happy to proven many people wrong. Says he has bowled well and taken wickets and proved it those, who he asks "to go and have a look at their own record"! Fiesty! Tendulkar calls it the right time to end playing the IPL and reveals he had decided to do that before the tournament. Gavaskar tempts him with an offer of playing one more game next season at Wankhede before calling it quits. source: iplt20.com, cricinfo.com |
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