This week in IPL, a lot went down and you simply can’t miss the highlights! So, buckle up for your IPL weekly wrap - full-on masala, zero bakwaas. Okay, maybe just a little bakwaas.
First up, did you spot former England football manager Gareth Southgate at the Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians match? Yes, the same Gareth Southgate who led England to Euro finals and a World Cup semi-final was seen sporting an RR jersey at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium. Sadly for him, RR got absolutely steamrolled by Mumbai Indians. Sorry, Mr. Southgate, but heartbreaks must be familiar territory by now!
Next, let’s talk about IPL’s robo-dog mascot, ‘Champak’. But wait, can we even call it Champak? The BCCI is now in a legal tussle with Delhi Press, who claim the name ‘Champak’ is trademarked by their iconic kids’ magazine. The name was chosen by a public poll, with other options like Buddy, Chulbul, and Jaffa on the table. BCCI says the name is inspired by Champaklal from the popular show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. Meanwhile, I’m curious if the ‘Chulbul’ option was a nod to Dabangg!
The biggest star of the week? Vaibhav Suryavanshi. This 14-year-old prodigy smashed records so fast that even Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri gave him a shoutout on social media. Skeptics still doubt his age, but remember guys, BCCI’s bone density test had already confirmed he’s truly 14. No more debates!
Now, onto the infamous “slapgate.” Kuldeep Yadav gave Rinku Singh two friendly slaps which were caught on camera, sparking a social media frenzy. But chill, it was just playful banter between two UP boys. No tears, no bans - just good old brotherly fun. This one’s a far cry from the OG Slapgate between Harbhajan and Sreesanth!
Talking team drama, Chennai Super Kings missed the playoffs for the second year running - a first in their history - with 8 defeats. Rajasthan Royals also bowed out, deservedly so after failing in crucial run chases. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians have surged from 9th place on April 13 to the top of the table with six consecutive wins. History suggests when MI wins 5+ in a row (at least the last 4 times) they lift the trophy. So, MI fans, keep those fingers crossed!
That’s your IPL weekly wrap! See you next week for more cricket masala. Till then, goodbye!
