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Virat Kohli eyes 9000 runs and IPL half-century record as RCB take on LSG

As RCB get ready to face LSG in their final IPL 2025 league game, Virat Kohli stands close to hitting 9000 runs for the franchise and setting a new record for most half-centuries in IPL history.

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Virat Kohli stands on the brink of adding two monumental records to his already illustrious IPL career as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gear up for their crucial final group stage clash against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025.

Kohli nears 9000 runs for RCB

Kohli, who has remained a one-franchise man since the inception of the IPL, is just 24 runs away from completing 9000 runs for RCB across all T20 formats. The veteran batter has amassed 8,976 runs in 270 innings, which includes 8,552 runs in 256 IPL innings and 424 runs in 14 Champions League T20 matches.

In the ongoing season, the 36-year-old has led RCB’s batting charts with 548 runs in 12 innings. His consistent form has been a cornerstone of Bengaluru’s campaign, helping the franchise secure a playoff spot.

Battle for most IPL half-centuries

Kohli is also on the cusp of overtaking David Warner for the most half-centuries in IPL history. Both batters are currently tied at 62 fifties. With one more, Kohli will break the deadlock and extend his lead over fellow Indian opener Rohit Sharma, who has 46 IPL fifties to his name.

Having notched up seven half-centuries already this season, 2025 ranks as Kohli’s third-best IPL campaign after 2016 (11 fifties) and 2023 (8 fifties).

RCB push for top-two finish

Currently placed third on the points table with 17 points from 13 games, RCB have a golden opportunity to finish in the top two for the first time since 2016. A win against LSG — provided they better Punjab Kings’ net run rate — could seal that spot.

RCB’s recent form has been a mixed bag. A rain-interrupted game was followed by a 42-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad. Their last win came on May 3, and signs of rust were evident in the SRH loss.

Hazlewood’s return boosts bowling attack

Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been a standout performer for RCB this season. With 18 wickets in 10 matches, he currently ranks fourth among the top wicket-takers of the tournament. His return has significantly boosted the team’s morale ahead of the final league encounter.

Moreover, RCB may benefit from familiar conditions, having played their previous match at the Ekana Stadium, where they will face LSG.

With Gujarat Titans stumbling in their recent games, the door is wide open for RCB to make a strong finish and head into the playoffs with momentum — and possibly with Kohli etching another record into the IPL annals.

Cricket news

Who is Praful Hinge? Young pacer who made instant impact with match-turning IPL debut spell

Praful Hinge grabbed attention with a three-wicket over on his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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Praful Hinge bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL

Praful Hinge is an emerging Indian fast bowler who grabbed attention after a remarkable debut in the Indian Premier League. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, the young pacer made headlines by taking three wickets in a single over, a rare and impactful feat in T20 cricket.

His performance came against Rajasthan Royals, where he turned the game with a decisive spell, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

Domestic cricket background

Hinge hails from Nagpur and has been associated with the Vidarbha cricket team in domestic cricket. Like many cricketers rising through India’s competitive system, his progress at the domestic level paved the way for his IPL opportunity.

While detailed statistics from his domestic career remain limited in public reports, his selection in the IPL reflects recognition of his potential and performances.

Bowling style and strengths

Praful Hinge is a right-arm fast bowler known for:

  • Maintaining a disciplined line and length
  • Ability to generate movement off the pitch
  • Effectiveness in short, impactful spells

His debut spell highlighted composure under pressure, especially in a high-intensity league like the IPL.

Breakthrough IPL moment

Making an immediate impact in the IPL is never easy, but Hinge’s three-wicket over on debut stands out as a defining moment. Performances like these often play a key role in shaping a young cricketer’s early career and gaining attention from teams and selectors.

A promising start

Praful Hinge’s debut has positioned him as a young fast bowler to watch. While it is still early in his career, such impactful performances suggest potential for further opportunities in domestic and franchise cricket.

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Cricket news

At 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi eyes India debut, could surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may soon make his India debut after a standout IPL 2026 season with Rajasthan Royals.

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Rising cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is reportedly on the verge of earning his first senior India call-up following an impressive run in IPL 2026. The 15-year-old batter has been shortlisted for the upcoming India tour of Ireland, according to multiple reports.

The young Rajasthan Royals player has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about talents this season, delivering impactful performances that have caught the attention of selectors.

Strong performances boost selection chances

Sooryavanshi’s explosive batting in IPL 2026 has played a key role in pushing his case for national selection. Representing Rajasthan Royals, the teenager has consistently taken on top bowlers with confidence, showcasing both aggressive stroke play and maturity beyond his age.

Reports suggest he is among several young players being monitored for India’s Ireland tour, with selectors looking to test emerging talent in a relatively shorter series.

Could become youngest India debutant

If selected and given an opportunity, Sooryavanshi could script history by becoming one of the youngest players to represent India at the international level. At just 15, he would surpass long-standing age records set by former greats like Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16.

The potential milestone has added further excitement around the youngster, whose rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket has been closely followed by fans and experts alike.

Future tours also on radar

Apart from the Ireland series, reports indicate that Sooryavanshi could also be considered for other upcoming assignments later in 2026, including a possible tour of Zimbabwe. His consistent performances and fearless approach have made him a strong contender for continued inclusion in India’s plans.

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Cricket news

Guwahati weather poses threat to RR vs MI blockbuster as rain delays toss

The IPL 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians faces a delay as the Guwahati weather brings persistent rain to the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.

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Guwahati weather

The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) has hit a weather hurdle. Scheduled to take place at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the toss for Match 13 has been officially delayed due to persistent rain in the city.

Rain intensifies at Barsapara Stadium

The Guwahati weather has taken a turn for the worse as heavy drizzle forced the groundstaff to keep the pitch and square under covers. While the rain had momentarily eased, allowing for a brief inspection, it returned shortly after, frustrating both fans and players. According to media reports, the probability of rain during match hours has surged to nearly 50%, a significant increase from earlier forecasts.

Cut-off time and over reductions

As the clock ticks, the pressure on the match officials increases. Overs were scheduled to start being reduced from 8:40 PM IST. For those hoping for at least a shortened game, the cut-off time for a minimum five-over-a-side contest has been established at 10:56 PM IST. The city remains under a weather alert, with cloud cover expected to be a major factor throughout the evening.

High-stakes encounter on hold

Rajasthan Royals enter this game with a perfect record, having won their first two matches of the season. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, are looking to bounce back after a mixed start. A key highlight of this match is the potential battle between 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the experienced Jasprit Bumrah.

Historically, the two teams share a fierce rivalry, with Mumbai holding a slight edge with 16 wins compared to Rajasthan’s 14 in their 31 previous meetings.

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