IPL 2026: Bowlers Star As PBKS Continue Unbeaten Run With 54-run Win Over LSG
Lucknow Super Giants: In-form Punjab Kings extended their unbeaten streak in IPL 2026 with a clinical 54-run demolition of Lucknow Super Giants on Sunday. Defending a season-high total of 254/7, Marco Jansen finished with 2-37, while Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Vijaykumar Vyshak claimed one wicket apiece to ensure PBKS remained at the top of the points table. While opener Priyansh Arya (93 off 37 balls) and Australian southpaw Cooper Connolly (87 off 46 balls) set up the massive target with their blazing fifties, PBKS bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to restrict LSG to 200/5, despite some late sloppiness in the field. Chasing 255 was always going to be an uphill task for LSG and they went on this pursuit with their third opening combination Mitchell Marsh joining forces with Ayush Badoni. The duo did well to have a 61-run stand, but it wasnt enough to chase a steep target. Though Marsh, Rishabh Pant and Aiden Markram hit 40s each, none could convert it to a huge game-defining knock to give PBKS a scare. With the heavy defeat, LSG got their third straight loss and are now at number eight, with only Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians behind them. LSGs experiment of opening Badoni with Marsh began well as they hit 10 boundaries in their opening stand going past fifty, before Vyshak broke the stand on the final ball of the powerplay by deceiving the former with a slower delivery that was comfortably caught by mid-wicket. Marsh and Pant then tried to inject momentum with the LSG skipper smoking Jansen for back-to-back sixes. But the introduction of Chahal tightened the screws with 20 runs coming off overs 9-11, he broke the threatening second-wicket partnership when Marsh dragged a flighted delivery straight to long-on. Pant continued his solo charge by smashing Chahal for consecutive sixes in the 12th over, but fell for a quick-fire 43 when his attempt to slice a wide yorker from Arshdeep led to him being caught behind, a decision confirmed by UltraEdge. Marsh and Pant then tried to inject momentum with the LSG skipper smoking Jansen for back-to-back sixes. But the introduction of Chahal tightened the screws with 20 runs coming off overs 9-11, he broke the threatening second-wicket partnership when Marsh dragged a flighted delivery straight to long-on. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Punjab Kings 254/7 in 20 overs (Priyansh Arya 93, Cooper Connolly 87; Prince Yadav 2-25, M Siddharth 2-35) beat Lucknow Super Giants 200/5 in 20 overs (Rishabh Pant 43, Aiden Markram 42; Marco Jansen 2-37, Vijaykumar Vyshak 1-30) by 54 runs Article Source: IANS
Varun Chakravarthy: We Are Here to Compete, Not Just Participate
Kolkata, April 19: In an exhilarating match on Sunday, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured a 4-wicket victory against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. KKRs spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who took 3 wickets for just 14 runs in 4 overs, was named Player of the Match. He emphasized that his team is ... Read more Varun Chakravarthy: We Are Here to Compete, Not Just Participate
Varun points to slow Kolkata pitch for his match-winning return
KKR spinner says spinners will always go for runs when there is nothing in the surface to help them
Don't Want To Make A Sweeping Statement: Varun Downplays Return To Form, Unbothered By outside Noise
Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy: Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who returned to form with a decisive Player of the Match performance in Kolkata Knight Riders win over Rajasthan Royals, reflected on the challenging period leading up to the game. He stated that bowlers are bound to leak runs if the wicket isnt in their favour and expressed that there was nothing to worry about his form or the outside noise. Having endured scrutiny since an underwhelming outing in an ICC tournament fixture against South Africa, Varun placed his recent struggles in perspective, insisting that fluctuating returns are part and parcel of a bowlers journey in modern-day cricket. Look, just because I have taken three wickets today, I don't want to make a sweeping statement. That's the nature of the game. Next match, if the wicket has nothing in it, that's going to happen to every spinner. As you can see, initially, every spinner was travelling. So, that's how it is. Once the pitches start slowing down, that's how we start coming into the game and we start being more effective. So, it's the nature of the game and we can't change it. So, I don't think much about that, Varun told the media at the press conference after the game. Varun acknowledged that KKRs inconsistent results and external criticism may have influenced the teams approach at times, but stressed that the collective effort eventually paid off. Yes, there could be many things because we have not been winning and there is much outside noise which comes and which affects the players. But finally, we turned out in the better side today. We won the match. Yes, there are many areas for improvement, for sure. Because we started this tournament with many, as in many injuries and it actually crippled us before even the tournament started. So, I would like to give credit to the coaches, the head coach, Abhishek Nayar. If you are taking up a team in such conditions, you have a lot of work to do and you need a lot of courage for that. So, he has taken up the team from a very tough situation. So, it is going to take some time for build up. And I think, slowly, slowly, step by step, baby step, one win here, one win there, we will be back on track, he said. Highlighting the emotional weight of the victory, Varun revealed the impact it had inside the dressing room, saying, Very, very significant. I can say to you that I could see many tears today, which we did not see in the winning year, the year that we won the IPL in 2024 or so. here, inside the dressing room. I could see many tears. On the tactical front, the mystery spinner reiterated his reliance on attacking lines whenever conditions offered assistance. Once there is something in the pitch, I go back to my strength. My strength is to keep attacking the stumps. But if there is nothing in the pitch, that is when bowlers start searching, they start getting confused, they are clueless, which happens to everyone. It has happened to the best of the best. So, no one can be judged with just one match of good performance and bad performance, he said. Despite the modest first-innings total, Varun believed both teams misread the surface slightly. Generally, it does. Generally, it starts getting a bit slower. I am not telling it slows down so much. But today, I felt it was a 190 wicket. Both teams struggled with batting. As in, both teams were going too explosive. But where you could have just put your head down and played, it could have been done. So, you could have easily scored 190. So, that is what I thought. But again, this win is very important for us. In the next half of the IPL, we are going to build upon the positives that we got in this match, the mystery spinner mentioned. He also shed light on the tactical discussions around his bowling role and praised the team environment for shielding players from criticism. Yes, there was a lot of discussion on when I can start bowling in the powerplay or after the powerplay and all those things. But once I get back in form, I feel more confident. That was the whole plan behind it and Sunny has been doing well in the powerplay. But still, I think we will have the plans fluid. I might bowl in the powerplay or Sunny will bowl in the powerplay. But exactly, the main credit has to go to the coaching staff because they didn't let the outside noise affect us. Because there were too many people floating around with totally baseless judgments. At such times, you need a strong core that supports you and we have a very strong core that supports us, he noted. Varun also revealed that he has been managing multiple injuries during the tournament as he said, Yes, unfortunately, before the first match itself, I fractured one of my fingers. In another match, I fractured another finger. Left hand? Yes, two fractures. So, I couldn't use my left hand itself. Fielding was totally out of the question. I am still trying to manage but it is a little painful. Addressing speculation around changes in his bowling, he clarified that his core approach remains intact. I didn't say anything about speed. Speed is the same. When I was taking wickets, I didn't change anything in terms of speed. I didn't change anything in terms of length either. I am just changing the line. Line of attack. So, more cramping lines. Not in the fourth stump line, more cramping lines. Offside wide, leg side wide. I am working on all the lines right now. I am not just sticking on to stumps. I have not changed anything, he mentioned. Finally, he attributed earlier struggles largely to unhelpful conditions rather than technical flaws. There was no mistake. The pitch was like this. Because I am very tough on myself. If I don't do well, I go and pinpoint what is not there. Because the pitches were such that there was nothing for the spinners. If you see other spinners also, it was the same condition for everyone. So, it's nice that there is something for the spinners now. And hopefully, there is more for the spinners, Varun stated. Finally, he attributed earlier struggles largely to unhelpful conditions rather than technical flaws. Also Read: Live Cricket Score About the wicket, there has been a lot of to and fro about the wicket. I don't know who is deciding on what wicket is going to come. But we are ready for whatever wicket comes. We are just open to play on any wicket, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Wasn't Making Mistakes: Varun Chakravarthy Blames Pitches For Form Dip, Shrugs Off Criticism
On a sluggish Eden Gardens surface in an IPL afternoon match, Chakravarthy returned to form with figures of 3/14, playing a key role in Kolkata Knight Riders' first win after six matches
Kolkata Businessman Joy Kamdar Arrested in ED Raids Linked to Criminal Syndicate
Kolkata, April 19: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested businessman Joy Kamdar following raids on his properties in Kolkata on Sunday. The operation also targeted Deputy Commissioner of Kolkata Police, Shantanu Sinha Biswas. This action is part of an investigation into a money laundering case linked to an alleged criminal syndicate. An ED official stated ... Read more Kolkata Businessman Joy Kamdar Arrested in ED Raids Linked to Criminal Syndicate
'I Am Playing For My Country': Rashid Khan On Rejecting India, Australia Citizenship Offers
Kolkata Knight Riders: Rashid Khan has shared that he turned down offers of citizenship from both India and Australia. He chose to stay committed to representing Afghanistan. The star leg-spinner revealed this in his book, Rashid Khan: From Streets to Stardom. He recounted an incident from the 2023 IPL season. A team official told him that a senior figure from Indian cricket wanted to meet him. Rashid remembered the conversation. He said, I went over and greeted him. We started talking, and he said: The situation in your country (Afghanistan) is very bad. Come stay in India. We will give you Indian documents, live here, play cricket here. I was surprised by what he was saying and didnt know how to respond. But I smiled and said, Thank you very much. I am playing for my country, Afghanistan. Rashid also mentioned that such offers weren't unique to one country. I received such offers (citizenship and playing) from both Australia and India. But I told them, If I dont play for my country, I wont play for any other country either, he wrote, emphasizing his strong loyalty to Afghanistan. The 25-year-old reflected on a similar episode from 2018 while with Sunrisers Hyderabad. After a match-winning performance against Kolkata Knight Riders, social media in India was filled with calls for him to get citizenshipshowing the significant admiration he had already earned. Khan also celebrated a special moment off the field by sharing the news of his sons birth in an emotional social media post, introducing the newborn as Aslan. The 25-year-old reflected on a similar episode from 2018 while with Sunrisers Hyderabad. After a match-winning performance against Kolkata Knight Riders, social media in India was filled with calls for him to get citizenshipshowing the significant admiration he had already earned. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sharing his joy, Rashid wrote on Instagram, Alhamdulillah. Welcome to the world, my little prince, and asked well-wishers to keep his family in their prayers. The post quickly drew congratulatory messages from fellow cricketers and members of the cricketing fraternity, reflecting the admiration he enjoys across the sport. Article Source: IANS
Captain Rahane Expresses Joy After KKRs First Win of the Season
Kolkata, April 19: In a thrilling encounter of IPL 2026, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) showcased an impressive performance, defeating Rajasthan Royals (RR) by four wickets. This victory, secured at Eden Gardens on Sunday, marked KKRs first win of the season, leaving captain Ajinkya Rahane visibly pleased. Following the match, Rahane expressed his happiness, stating, It ... Read more Captain Rahane Expresses Joy After KKRs First Win of the Season
IPL 2026: Lot Of Positives, This Will Give Us Confidence, Says Rahane After KKRs First Win Of Season
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Ajinkya Rahane expressed relief and satisfaction after his side finally opened their account in IPL 2026, crediting the collective effort while singling out Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy and Varun Chakravarthy for their impact in a tense win. Feels really good. There were a lot of emotions going on during the game, but personally, I'm really happy for Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, and Varun Chakravarthy as well. The way he bowled in the middle today, Varun was going through a tough phase, but last three games, he's been bowling fantastically, Rahane said after the win. He highlighted how both Rinku and Varun had worked through difficult phases, making their contributions in this win even more significant. Rinku Singh again, he was going through a tough phase mentally. Really happy to see him finishing the game. And Anukul Roy, he had a fantastic domestic season, very confident guy. We wanted to give him that opportunity. Today, he couldn't bowl because of the left-hand-right-hand combination. But really happy to see how both of them, they batted that partnership for us, Rahane stated. The KKR captain also shed light on his leadership style, emphasising individual conversations and simplicity in approach Most of the practice sessions, we do have common conversation. I like to have one-on-one conversation rather than talking in the groups. Even all the coaches, they've been talking to the players. It's about reading the situation well. I feel cricket is a simple game. If you keep it really simple, rather than thinking far too ahead, he said. Rahane believed the win could be a turning point for the team, especially given the improvements already visible in their bowling unit. I thought this victory will probably give us that confidence as a team because bowling-wise, I felt we've been doing really well. Last three games, the bowlers are coming nicely together. They're bowling in partnership, bowling as a unit. Batting-wise, yes, there are areas we can still improve. But again, as I said, there's lots to take positively from this game. So, really happy with the victory, he noted. He also had special praise for young pacer Kartik Tyagi, who has impressed with his clarity and execution. Fantastic, he's been really good from the practice games which we played. Since then, he's been really clear about his ability, what he wants to do in the middle. As a captain, when you have a guy like that who's really clear coming and playing after a very long time, he's still young. But the confidence which he has in his ability to what he wants to bowl in different kind of situations has been amazing. He bowled in the death overs, bowling in those middle overs as well, sometimes tough overs. So, really happy to see Kartik Tyagi gaining that confidence as a young fast bowler. And the pace which he's bowling has been fantastic, Rahane said on Tyagis three-wicket haul. On the batting approach, Rahane stressed the need for better awareness and adaptability, especially after a string of poor powerplay performances. There's lots to learn from every game. As I said, batting-wise, yes, we had a bad powerplay last three games, basically not good, but again, that's where the cricketing awareness comes in as a team, as a batting unit. Sometimes I feel strike rate is overrated. Wicket like this, you just have to focus on the singles, still keep the intent, but have those singles and doubles. It's not about going out there and hitting big sixes, the skipper mentioned. While acknowledging that the win came after some nervy moments, Rahane called it a timely wake-up call for the batting group, saying, I think if we can have that cricketing awareness, take the game deep, and we saw what happened today. Last couple of games, yes, we made those errors, but that can happen. This was a great escape for us, I would say, that partnership from Rinku and Anukul, but as a batting unit, we need to learn very quickly. Looking ahead, Rahane emphasised reflection and honest communication within the squad. Thankfully, we'll get those five, six extra days now before the next game, and those days will be really good, but we need to reflect, we need to learn what errors we have made, because as I said, cricketing God gives you that one opportunity. And I thought tonight's game was such that as a team, we have to come together, probably be honest with each other, and have that clear communication, he expressed. He also lauded the team environment and preparation, while underlining the importance of execution. Apart from that, everything has been really good, like preparation, the attitude from boys, the atmosphere we have inside the dressing room has been amazing, but it's just simple things where cricket demands. You just have to deliver that, the 37-year-old said. He also lauded the team environment and preparation, while underlining the importance of execution. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The fans have been fantastic throughout here, they come here and support. Last five games were really bad for us, but this victory belongs to them. This victory belongs to the fans, as I said. They have been amazing, very positive. Once we enter the stadium, you get that positive vibe, those loud chants and the atmosphere, that energy has been fantastic, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Rajasthan Royals Captain Riyan Parag Reflects on Missed Victory Against KKR
Kolkata, April 19: Riyan Parag, the captain of Rajasthan Royals (RR), acknowledged that his team let a winning match slip away. Following their loss to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 28th match of IPL 2026 at Eden Gardens, he attributed the defeat to fielding errors and a failure to implement strategies effectively. Discussing the ... Read more Rajasthan Royals Captain Riyan Parag Reflects on Missed Victory Against KKR
Luck was on my side: Rinku Singh reveals game-changing moment in KKR win over RR
Kolkata Knight Riders secured their first IPL 2026 victory with a thrilling four-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals, thanks to Rinku Singh's unbeaten 53. Singh admitted a dropped catch early in his innings proved to be the turning point, allowing him to guide KKR through a nervy chase to the finish line.
IPL 2026: My Mindset Was To Take The Game Deep, Says Rinku After Guiding KKR To First Win
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders vice-captain Rinku Singh credited a calm and calculated approach for his match-winning knock, saying his focus was always on taking the game deep as the side finally registered their first win of the IPL 2026 season by defeating Rajasthan Royals by four wickets at Eden Gardens on Sunday. Coming in at a tense phase of the chase, Rinku anchored the innings and held one end firm despite wickets falling around him, eventually steering KKR home with a composed half-century. Reflecting on his on-field intensity, Rinku said it stemmed from the situation rather than any frustration. Sometimes it happens like that when a few things dont go your way, so you feel that intensity. But it wasnt like I was hesitating or unsure about playing my shots. My mindset was to take the game till the end because I had conversations with the coach and also with my batting partner. The idea was to take it deep since the match was in a tricky situation, he said after the game. The left-hander also survived an early scare in his innings, a moment he admitted could have gone either way as he said, Thats what happens sometimes, sir. In that moment, the mind doesnt work properly and you end up playing such shots. But thankfully, luck was on my side and we eventually won the match. Having endured a string of low scores earlier in the season, Rinku acknowledged the importance of this innings for his own confidence. I had played quite a few innings and was waiting for a big one. This was a very good innings for me and also very important for my confidence, he stated. Rinkus knock came at a crucial juncture for KKR, who were under pressure after a string of defeats and a shaky start in the chase. His partnership with Anukul Roy proved decisive, as the duo absorbed pressure before accelerating in the death overs. Speaking about his batting role, Rinku emphasised flexibility and team-first thinking saying, Theres nothing like a fixed position for me. I can bat at number five, lower down the order, or even at number four. Wherever the team needs me, Im ready to bat in that position. Rinkus knock came at a crucial juncture for KKR, who were under pressure after a string of defeats and a shaky start in the chase. His partnership with Anukul Roy proved decisive, as the duo absorbed pressure before accelerating in the death overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR chased down the target in a tense finish, with Rinkus unbeaten 53-run knock proving to be the difference in a game that swung both ways before the hosts held their nerve at the death. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Silly Errors From Our Side, No Excuses, Says Parag After RRs Defeat To KKR
Kolkata Knight Riders: Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag admitted that his side let a winnable game slip through their fingers, pointing to fielding lapses and execution errors as key reasons behind their defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders in Sundays IPL 2026 clash at Eden Gardens. Reflecting on the first innings, Parag felt his team fell short with the bat despite reading the conditions well early on. I think like the first four or five overs we assessed, the was a 170-run wicket, so we were 10 under par for starters. And then I think the way we clawed back, the effort the bowlers put in, I'll say, and it was our game. No excuses there. We can't be dropping catches, we can't be bowling lines that help the batters. So, silly errors from our side. But this was our game, he said after the game. Despite being slightly under par, Rajasthans bowlers brought them back into contention, particularly through spin, a tactical call Parag stood by. I think there was a lot of spin in the wicket (on not bowling Brijesh and the other pacers until late). And the way Bishnoi and Poonja bowl is different. I felt that spin was what the situation required. And that's why I went with it. When it works out, it looks nice. But then I felt it worked out today as well. And then just a few errors here and there. And that's the point, he noted. Parag also elaborated on his decision-making regarding bowling changes, especially the delay in using pacer Brijesh Sharma. I think he was almost there to bowl, I feel, the 14th and the 16th as well. But then they lost wickets and then they were two left-handers. So I got myself in and the spinners were going really well. So I chose to trust those spinners that we might, you know, get a slog or something to get a wicket. We almost did that. And once that Bishnoi's over was done, I felt, okay, spinners might go here because of the left-hand combinations. And I felt Brijesh will go 18 and 20th over, Parag stated. On the batting front, the 24-year-old acknowledged that the middle-order buildup was in line with the plan, but the finishing phase didnt go as intended. The way the middle order executed today, I think they all set a platform for them. Me and Hetty, we took 10-15 balls each and then when it was time to go, we missed. So I think the game plan was there collectively during the time was we felt, like I said, it was a 170 wicket and we would give ourselves some time and go for the last five overs. We tried doing that, didn't really come off, but I'm happy with the way the boys are thinking, he mentioned. While disappointed with the result, Parag remained optimistic about the teams approach going forward, as he said, I feel, again, a few errors here and there and that's also true, boys. Hopefully next game, we could have a clinical game for you all. He also reserved praise for young bowler Yash Punja, backing him to grow into a key asset for the franchise. While disappointed with the result, Parag remained optimistic about the teams approach going forward, as he said, I feel, again, a few errors here and there and that's also true, boys. Hopefully next game, we could have a clinical game for you all. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals posted a competitive total in the first innings but KKR eventually chased it down, with Rinku Singh and Anukul Roys late heroics sealing a tense final-over win for the hosts. Article Source: IANS
Varun Chakravarthy Sets Unique Record in IPL 2026 with Fastest 200 T20 Wickets
Kolkata, April 19: Varun Chakravarthy has made history by becoming the fastest Indian spinner to reach 200 wickets in T20 cricket. He achieved this milestone while playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Sunday. In the 28th match of IPL 2026, Chakravarthy took his first wicket in his opening ... Read more Varun Chakravarthy Sets Unique Record in IPL 2026 with Fastest 200 T20 Wickets
Rinku Singh stars as Kolkata Knight Riders seal first win, beat Rajasthan Royals
Kolkata: Vice-captain Rinku Singh lived up to expectations with a composed unbeaten 53 as Kolkata Knight Riders survived anxious moments to script their first win of IPL 2026 with a four-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals, here on Sunday, April 19. Courtesy Rinku and Anukul Roy, the target was achieved with two balls to spare and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
IPL 2026: Rinku, Anukul Script Dramatic Turnaround As KKR Beat RR By 4 Wickets To Seal First Win
Debutant Yash Raj Punja: After a torrid start to their IPL 2026 campaign, Kolkata Knight Riders finally found relief as Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy held their nerve in a tense finish to guide the side to their first win of the season, chasing down a modest target against Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on Sunday. In a chase that began disastrously, KKR were reduced to 2/2 in the first two overs. Jofra Archer struck off the very first ball to remove Tim Seifert, while Nandre Burger followed it up by dismissing skipper Ajinkya Rahane for a second consecutive duck. The early collapse continued to haunt KKR as wickets fell at regular intervals, leaving them reeling at 84 for 5 by the 13th over. Cameron Green briefly counter-attacked with a brisk 27 off 13 balls, while Rovman Powell added 23, but Rajasthans spin duo, led by Ravindra Jadeja (2/8), kept the scoring in check through the middle overs. Debutant Yash Raj Punja also made an impact, picking up his maiden IPL wicket and maintaining control after an expensive start. At 97 for 6 in the 15th over, the game seemed to be slipping away from KKR. However, Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy stitched together a match-defining partnership for the seventh wicket, blending caution with calculated aggression. The turning point came in the 16th over when Anukul took on Ravi Bishnoi, smashing a six to inject momentum into the chase. Rinku, who had struggled initially and even survived a dropped catch, gradually found his rhythm, rotating strike effectively before unleashing boundaries at crucial moments. With 40 needed off the last four overs, the duo steadily chipped away at the target. Rinku took charge against Jofra Archer in the 17th over, finding gaps and keeping the equation within reach. Anukul complemented him perfectly, including a towering six off Archer in the 18th over that swung the pressure back onto the Royals. Needing 21 off the last two overs, the pair showed composure under pressure. Anukuls smart running and timely hits, combined with Rinkus calculated strokeplay, brought the equation down to nine off the final over. Facing Brijesh Sharma in the 20th over, Rinku sealed the contest in dramatic fashion. After striking two boundaries early in the over, he brought up his half-century with a top-edged six that sailed over the keeper, sparking wild celebrations at Eden Gardens as KKR completed a memorable win with two balls to spare. Rinku remained unbeaten, anchoring the chase with a composed unbeaten half-century (53*), while Anukuls valuable cameo (29 not out) provided the perfect support in the closing stages. Earlier, Rajasthan Royals had posted a competitive total on the back of disciplined batting, but KKRs bowlers, especially Varun Chakaravarthy, Kartik Tyagi and Sunil Narine, managed to restrict them from posting an imposing score. Despite that, KKRs batting frailties nearly cost them again before Rinku and Anukul turned the tide. Rinku remained unbeaten, anchoring the chase with a composed unbeaten half-century (53*), while Anukuls valuable cameo (29 not out) provided the perfect support in the closing stages. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Rajasthan Royals 155/9 in 20 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 46, Yashasvi Jaiswal 39; Varun Chakaravarthy 3-14, Kartik Tyagi 3-22) lost to Kolkata Knight Riders (Rinku Singh 53*, Anukul Roy 29*; Ravindra Jadeja 2-8, Yash Punja 1-25) by four wickets. Article Source: IANS
KKR Secures First IPL Win with Thrilling Victory Over RR
Kolkata, April 19: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) celebrated their first victory in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) after a thrilling match against Rajasthan Royals (RR), winning by four wickets at Eden Gardens. The remarkable partnership between Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy played a crucial role in this achievement. After losing their initial two matches ... Read more KKR Secures First IPL Win with Thrilling Victory Over RR
IPL 2026: KKR notch first win of season, beat RR by four wickets
Kolkata Knight Riders secured their first win of the season. Rinku Singh's unbeaten 53 was crucial. Rajasthan Royals were restricted to 155 for nine. Varun Chakaravarthy and Sunil Narine took key wickets. KKR chased down the target with two balls to spare. Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy shared a vital partnership.
What Will It Take To Make Kolkata Great Again? Sanjiv Goenka Explains
In an exclusive interview with NDTV Editor-in-Chief Rahul Kanwal on 'Walk the Talk', Industrialist Sanjiv Goenka called for one key measure to ensure Bengal grows, and that is consistency
IPL 2026: KKRs Opening Pair Struggles with Just 144 Runs in 7 Innings
Kolkata, April 19: Captain Ajinkya Rahane and Tim Seiferts opening partnership has disappointed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) fans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The duo has managed only 144 runs at an average of 20.57 across their first seven innings. Lets take a closer look at KKRs opening pair performance match by match ... Read more IPL 2026: KKRs Opening Pair Struggles with Just 144 Runs in 7 Innings
ED arrests businessman, raids Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner in PMLA case
The action is linked to a money laundering case against an alleged local criminal named Biswajit Podder alias Sona Pappu, who is booked in multiple cases on charges of attempted murder and extortion.
Varun Chakaravarthy completes 200 T20 wickets during KKR vs RR IPL 2026 match
Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy achieved a career milestone of 200 T20 wickets. He reached this mark during the IPL 2026 match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals. Chakaravarthy took three wickets in the game. Rajasthan Royals were restricted to 155/9. Kolkata Knight Riders need 156 runs to win.
KKR Coach Abhishek Nayar's Massive Statement On Team Environment After Rocky Start To IPL 2026
Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Abhishek Nayar stressed the importance of maintaining belief and a positive dressing-room environment as the side continues to navigate a challenging phase in IPL 2026.
Varun Chakaravarthy Becomes Fastest Indian Spinner To Take 200 T20 Wickets
Indian Premier League: Varun Chakaravarthy etched his name in the history books as he became the fastest Indian spinner to reach 200 wickets in T20 cricket on Sunday. The landmark came during an Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash between his side, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Eden Gardens, where Chakravarthy struck in his very first over. He removed young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who mistimed a big shot off a well-flighted delivery and was caught in the deep by Ramandeep Singh. That wicket not only gave KKR an early breakthrough but also took Chakravarthy past the 200-wicket mark in record time among all Indian spinners in T20 cricket. Chakravarthy went on to finish with outstanding figures of 3 for 14, also dismissing Riyan Parag and Yashasvi Jaiswal to break the backbone of the Rajasthan Royals batting line-up. His spell proved decisive in controlling the match as RR scored just 159 runs in 20 overs. Across Indian bowlers in T20 cricket, only a few have reached the 200-wicket milestone quickly, but Chakravarthy stands out as the fastest spinner to do so. He reached the landmark in just 155 innings, ahead of several established names in Indian cricket. Chakravarthy went on to finish with outstanding figures of 3 for 14, also dismissing Riyan Parag and Yashasvi Jaiswal to break the backbone of the Rajasthan Royals batting line-up. His spell proved decisive in controlling the match as RR scored just 159 runs in 20 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Across his IPL career, Chakravarthy has taken 105 wickets in 89 matches at an average of 24.17, with an economy rate of 7.65. In the current season, he has picked up five wickets in five games at an average of 30.60. In T20Is, he has claimed 73 wickets from 45 matches at 16.61 apiece with an economy of 7.55, including two five-wicket hauls for India Article Source: IANS
Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane has set a new IPL record for the most ducks as an opener. He was dismissed for a duck against Rajasthan Royals, marking his second consecutive duck. Rahane now has 12 ducks in this role. KKR bowlers performed well, restricting Rajasthan Royals to 155. KKR needs to chase 156 for a win.
Ajinkya Rahane Sets Unwanted IPL Record with Duck in 2026 Match
Kolkata, April 19: In the 28th match of IPL 2026, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced off against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Eden Gardens on Sunday. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane struggled with the bat, returning to the pavilion without scoring. This match marked a new low for Rahane, as he became the batsman with the most ... Read more Ajinkya Rahane Sets Unwanted IPL Record with Duck in 2026 Match
West Bengal elections: CAPF holds key security review meeting in Kolkata
The meeting brought together Directors General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
IPL 2026: Rahane Sets Unwanted Record For Most Ducks As Opener
Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane endured another forgettable outing in IPL 2026, registering a two-ball duck and in the process becoming the player with the most ducks as an opener in the tournaments history during Kolkata Knight Riders clash against Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on Sunday. Rahanes dismissal came early in KKRs chase of 156, when he fell in just the second over to Nandre Burger. Attempting to cut a short delivery outside off, Rahane was undone by extra bounce, edging the ball behind to Dhruv Jurel, who completed a straightforward catch. The early blow left KKR reeling at two wickets down within the first eight balls. The dismissal marked Rahanes second consecutive duck this season and his 12th as an opener in IPL history, pushing him past Parthiv Patel (11) to the top of an unwanted list. Notably, Rahane now sits ahead of names like Shikhar Dhawan, Gautam Gambhir and David Warner in this regard. Rahanes form this season has been inconsistent, with his scores reading 67, 8, 8*, 41, 28, 0 and 0. While he has shown glimpses of fluency, the lack of consistency at the top has hurt KKRs starts. Adding to the hosts woes, both KKR openers were dismissed for ducks in this match, a rare occurrence in IPL history. This is only the 13th instance of both openers falling without scoring in an innings and the first such case for KKR since Gautam Gambhir and Jacques Kallis suffered the same fate back in 2014. Tim Seifert and Rahane found their way back to the pavilion in the first and second overs of the chase, putting immediate pressure on the middle order. Earlier, Rajasthan Royals posted 155/9 after being put in to bat, a total that looked well below par at one stage, given their strong start. Yashasvi Jaiswal (39) and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (46) stitched together an 81-run opening stand, laying a solid platform. Adding to the hosts woes, both KKR openers were dismissed for ducks in this match, a rare occurrence in IPL history. This is only the 13th instance of both openers falling without scoring in an innings and the first such case for KKR since Gautam Gambhir and Jacques Kallis suffered the same fate back in 2014. Tim Seifert and Rahane found their way back to the pavilion in the first and second overs of the chase, putting immediate pressure on the middle order. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite restricting Rajasthan to a modest total, KKRs chase got off to a disastrous start, once again highlighting their struggles this season. Still winless in the tournament so far, the Kolkata-based franchise will need a swift turnaround if they are to keep their playoff hopes alive. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Jofra Archer Achieves Milestone, Matches Mohammad Shamis Record
Kolkata, April 19: In the 28th match of IPL 2026, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced off against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Sunday. A significant achievement was recorded by Jofra Archer, who equaled a major record held by Mohammad Shami. Archer struck early, bowling out Tim Seifert on the very first ball of KKRs ... Read more IPL 2026: Jofra Archer Achieves Milestone, Matches Mohammad Shamis Record
Kolkata Knight Riders: Veteran all-rounder Sunil Narine struck an optimistic note despite acknowledging the ever-evolving challenges of T20 cricket, reflecting on his bowling rhythm and Kolkata Knight Riders approach at the IPL 2026 after registering 2/26 in his four-over spell against Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on Sunday. Coming off an impactful spell in the first innings where he played a key role in pegging Rajasthan Royals back after a strong start, Narine suggested that while he is rediscovering his rhythm, consistency remains a moving target in the shortest format. I think it's getting there. In this T20 format, you're never at your best. Every game is a new challenge and every game you have to try to do your best, Narine said during a mid-innings interaction with the broadcasters, underlining the demands of modern T20 cricket. Addressing observations around a possible dip in pace, the mystery spinner clarified that his variations are largely dictated by the conditions rather than any conscious reduction in speed. No, it's just based on the pitch. If we slowly bowl on the pitch, we are getting a little more, but obviously you have to vary your pace as well. Hopefully it's going to be a good chase, he said. Narine also highlighted the importance of the new-ball phase, especially in a high-scoring tournament like the IPL, where powerplay overs often dictate the course of the innings. He credited the seamers for setting the tone early on. Our seamers swing the new ball and I think we give them the opportunity too. It's obviously a high-scoring IPL in the powerplay, so you can't overthink the powerplay. It's just how you could restrict them for at least as possible and then try to control the middle with the two spinners, he stated. A significant part of Kolkatas bowling resurgence has been the return to form of fellow spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who has found rhythm after a slow start to the season. Narine emphasised how crucial Chakaravarthys presence is for the teams balance, stating, We talk a lot about the cricket, the pitch, what the ball is doing, but I think once he's back in form, it's good for us as a bowling unit and good for us as a team. With him, we realise that he's a wicket-taker, he's someone who could keep down the flow of runs. So it's key to get him back on all cylinders. A significant part of Kolkatas bowling resurgence has been the return to form of fellow spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who has found rhythm after a slow start to the season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead to the chase, Narine kept the approach simple, stressing the need to maximise the powerplay advantage before consolidating. It's up to the powerplay. The powerplay is the best time to bat. So we capitalise on that and then try to cruise the game at the end, he said. Article Source: IANS
CM Mamata Banerjee Promises Jobs for I-PAC Employees Amid Uncertainty
Kolkata, April 19: The future of the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) in West Bengal has been shrouded in uncertainty since Sunday. This confusion intensified following Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees promise to provide jobs to I-PAC employees in Kolkata. Earlier in the day, reports emerged that I-PAC had sent an email to its Kolkata office ... Read more CM Mamata Banerjee Promises Jobs for I-PAC Employees Amid Uncertainty
Riyan Parag under fire as horror run continues with another flop vs KKR
Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag's batting struggles persisted in IPL 2026, as he managed only 12 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders. Across six matches, Parag has scored a mere 61 runs, highlighting a worrying dip in form. His dismissal contributed to a middle-order collapse, leaving Royals with a below-par total.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Abhishek Nayar stressed the importance of maintaining belief and a positive dressing-room environment as the side continues to navigate a challenging phase in IPL 2026. Speaking on the sidelines during KKRs clash against Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on Sunday, Nayar reflected on how the team management is helping players cope with setbacks, including injuries and inconsistent results. When you get hit early with a couple of injuries and you don't get the start you want, you understand that this tournament can take a toll on you. So, being there, you have a lot of experience in (Shane) Watson, DJ (Bravo), Dre Russ (Andre Russell) and (Tim) Southee, so we understand that this sport can sometimes be hard on you and for us, it's really important to keep an environment where you still believe, an environment where you're creating a platform for people to still go out there and want to play for the franchise because sometimes this pressure can get the best out of you and we want to make sure we give them, from our standpoint, the best opportunity to do so, he said. Nayar also elaborated on the tactical use of veteran spinner Sunil Narine, particularly in the powerplay, where KKR have looked to address their struggles. Powerplay has sort of been a concern for us when we've leaked from. So, we've tried to make sure the kind of form he is to get an over there. It's not so much a defensive ploy but we're looking to pick a wicket through him and every time Sunil comes in, you're trying to make sure that he's impacting the game at times and you want wickets. Yes, oppositions are sort of playing him very differently this season but, you know, we're always looking at Sunil as a wicket-taking option more than a defensive option from our end, he stated. With a growing emphasis on powerplay performance across teams, Nayar acknowledged its importance but maintained that success depends on executing well in all phases of the game. Powerplay has sort of been a concern for us when we've leaked from. So, we've tried to make sure the kind of form he is to get an over there. It's not so much a defensive ploy but we're looking to pick a wicket through him and every time Sunil comes in, you're trying to make sure that he's impacting the game at times and you want wickets. Yes, oppositions are sort of playing him very differently this season but, you know, we're always looking at Sunil as a wicket-taking option more than a defensive option from our end, he stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As KKR look to turn their campaign around with a win against RR, Nayars focus remains firmly on fostering confidence and ensuring the players are equipped to respond under pressure. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: KKR Spinners Trigger RRs Collapse, Restrict Them To 155/9
Kolkata Knight Riders: A dramatic collapse in the latter half of the innings saw Rajasthan Royals squander a blazing start to finish at a below-par 155/9 against Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL 2026 clash at Eden Gardens on Sunday. Opting to bat first, Rajasthan Royals looked firmly in control early on, courtesy of an explosive opening partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The duo stitched together a commanding 81-run stand, laying a solid foundation after navigating a relatively quiet start. While Jaiswal showcased his flair with innovative strokeplay, including a fine scoop and crisp drives, Sooryavanshi initially took time before accelerating, punishing anything loose. Rajasthan raced to 63 without loss in the powerplay, with the pair shifting gears effectively, particularly in the sixth over, where they plundered 22 runs. However, the game turned sharply once spin was introduced. Varun Chakaravarthy broke the stand by dismissing Sooryavanshi for a well-made 46, a wicket that triggered a significant slowdown. The mystery spinner, who also reached the milestone of 200 T20 wickets during his spell, continued to apply pressure alongside Sunil Narine. The spin duo choked the scoring rate and picked up key wickets in the middle overs. Jaiswal, who looked set for a bigger score, fell for 39 attempting to force the pace, while Dhruv Jurel was stumped soon after. Rajasthan slipped from 81/0 to 124/5, losing momentum drastically as boundaries dried up. Despite a brief attempt to rebuild through Shimron Hetmyer and Ravindra Jadeja, the innings never quite recovered. Hetmyer struggled for fluency, while Jadejas late boundary offered only temporary respite. The final overs turned chaotic as Rajasthan completely lost their way. Kartik Tyagi delivered a decisive blow with a three-wicket over, removing Jadeja, Hetmyer and Ravi Bishnoi in quick succession. His incisive spell derailed any hopes of a strong finish. In the closing stages, wickets continued to tumble, including a run-out off the final ball that summed up Rajasthans disarray. From a position of strength at 139/4 after 14 overs, they managed to add just 16 runs while losing five wickets in a dramatic collapse. The final overs turned chaotic as Rajasthan completely lost their way. Kartik Tyagi delivered a decisive blow with a three-wicket over, removing Jadeja, Hetmyer and Ravi Bishnoi in quick succession. His incisive spell derailed any hopes of a strong finish. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: Rajasthan Royals 155/9 in 20 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 46, Yashasvi Jaiswal 39; Varun Chakaravarthy 3-14, Kartik Tyagi 3-22) against Kolkata Knight Riders. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026 Live: Tyagi Makes It Up For KKR Star's Blunder, Scalps Huge Wicket
KKR vs RR LIVE Score, IPL 2026 LIVE Cricket Updates: Rajasthan Royals have lost their fifth wicket against Kolkata Knight Riders as Sunil Narine removed Donovan Ferreira for seven.
CAPF Leadership Unites for Security Preparations Ahead of West Bengal Assembly Elections
Kolkata, April 19: In a strong display of inter-agency coordination and commitment to the democratic process, the top leadership of Indias Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) convened a meeting in Kolkata on Sunday. The high-level joint meeting, attended by the Directors General of CRPF, BSF, CISF, SSB, and ITBP, aimed to establish a robust, technology-driven ... Read more CAPF Leadership Unites for Security Preparations Ahead of West Bengal Assembly Elections
Kolkata Knight Riders: Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja shed light on the demands of his dual role, emphasising the importance of workload management and adaptability. He also backed young teammate Vaibhav Sooryavanshis potential ahead of the teams IPL 2026 clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. Jadeja explained how he approaches training as an all-rounder, highlighting the need to strike the right balance between batting and bowling. As an all-rounder, you have to decide whether to focus on bowling or batting during training sessions. You must keep the workload in mind and can't do everything in a single session. I make the decision to split into half so that my workload is balanced, Jadeja said before the KKR vs RR contest. Jadeja, who was traded to Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, also reserved praise for young batter Vaibhav Sooryvanshi, underlining the promise he brings to the side. I think we're lucky to have him (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi) on our team. He bats well and possesses immense confidence for his young age. My opinion hasn't changed - from the first time I saw him, he continues to hit big sixes. He'll improve skillwise and talent wise as time goes on, which is a good thing for India in the future, he said. Reflecting on his role within the team, Jadeja reiterated that flexibility remains central to his approach, with team requirements dictating his contributions in both departments. I think we're lucky to have him (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi) on our team. He bats well and possesses immense confidence for his young age. My opinion hasn't changed - from the first time I saw him, he continues to hit big sixes. He'll improve skillwise and talent wise as time goes on, which is a good thing for India in the future, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With a strong record against Kolkata Knight Riders, Jadeja expressed confidence in delivering once again. My record against KKR is good and I hope to do well today as well. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: We Have To Focus On The Powerplay, Says Chakaravarthy On KKRs Struggles Ahead Of RR Clash
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders spinner Varun Chakaravarthy admitted that inconsistencies in the powerplay have hurt his sides campaign so far, even as he expressed confidence in regaining rhythm ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Rajasthan Royals here at the Eden Gardens on Sunday. After winning the toss, RR opted to bat first in the 28th match of the tournament, putting the spotlight on KKRs bowling unit in home conditions. Chakaravarthy, who missed a few games earlier in the season due to injury, spoke candidly about his fitness and form coming into the contest. I feel confident after the last match because the first 4-5 games I was on and off because of certain injuries which happened on the ground. A few fractures in my left hand. It's still going, I'm still managing, but I'm trying to come back to my rhythm, he told the broadcasters ahead of the game. Despite KKRs winless start to the season, the mystery spinner highlighted the positive environment within the camp, crediting the support staff for keeping the squad motivated during a difficult phase. Well, surprisingly, if I have to tell you, the support staff have managed us really well. As have the coaches, everyone; they have kept us in good spirits. That's all we can do. All we have been told is to focus on the controllables, and we can't control everything. As of now, the results are not going away, but we are putting in the hard work and the hard efforts. A lot of team bonding, a lot of sessions. Everyone's loving each other's company. I think this is one of the best KKR setups I've been a part of. It's just that the results are not coming our way, he added. Identifying key areas for improvement, Chakaravarthy pointed to the powerplay phase as a decisive factor where KKR have fallen short. I feel the power play in the bowling and batting is where we are losing out. We are staying behind in the game. That's where we have to focus, the spinner stated. Identifying key areas for improvement, Chakaravarthy pointed to the powerplay phase as a decisive factor where KKR have fallen short. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Whatever it is, Eden Gardens is a belter. You can't expect much. It's always going to be higher than 180+. I feel if you bat second, it might help. And if you bowl first, it might hold on a bit. That's what I feel, he added. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Hetmyer, Brijesh Come In As RR Opt To Bat Against Unchanged KKR
Kolkata Knight Riders: Rajasthan Royals (RR) won the toss and elected to bat first against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 28th match of the tournament here at Eden Gardens in the first game of the double header on Sunday. KKR aim to stay competitive against a weakened RR in this matchup. While RR gained momentum with four straight wins before being halted in their latest game by SRH, KKR have faced the opposite challenge, still seeking their first victory after six matches. The hosts have only earned one point so far, from a rain-affected home game. RR has proven to be one of the most composed teams this season, maintaining momentum through consistent performances and key wins, keeping them close to the top of the standings. KKR and RR have faced each other 32 times in the IPL so far, with KKR slightly ahead, winning 16 matches while RR has won 14. Winning the toss, RR skipper Riyan Parag said, Were batting first. Looks like a pretty dry wicket; the grass was cut yesterday. It could turn in the first innings and remain the same later on. Let's set the tone at the start: our focus is on doing better, last match was a learning phase, we need to take it into the games. Hetmyer and Brijesh are back, they replace Pretorious and Tushar Deshpande. Meanwhile, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane said, We wanted to bat first. In this situation, we want our batters to be free from any pressure. The bowlers have started to perform well, and I'm happy to lose the toss. We live in the past, we can't say about the future, just focus on the controllables. The preparation has been fantastic and the preparations have been good. Just go out there and do well. We have the same team. Playing XIs: Rajasthan Royals: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, and Brijesh Sharma Impact Substitutes: Sandeep Sharma, Shubham Dubey, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Yash Punja Rajasthan Royals: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, and Brijesh Sharma Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Finn Allen, Manish Pandey, Tejasvi Singh, Navdeep Saini Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026, RR vs KKR LIVE: Rajasthan Royals Wins Toss, Opts To Bat
With a break of about a month looming due to the upcoming Assembly polls, Kolkata Knight Riders will be desperate to secure their first win in front of home fans
Pakistan Super League: Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani's agency has pushed back against the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after the fast bowler was handed a two-year ban from the league, insisting that he had not signed any formal contract before choosing to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Muzarabani was initially named as a replacement signing in the PSL on a deal reportedly worth PKR 11 million (around Rs 37.4 lakh). However, he later pulled out and signed with KKR as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, a move that led to disciplinary action from the league. In a statement shared on X, Muzarabani's agency, 'World Sports Xchange' clarified that no formal contract was ever signed between Muzarabani and any PSL franchise. While he had been approached by Islamabad United (IU) for the 2026 season, the agreement was only provisional and subject to obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Zimbabwe Cricketsomething that requires a valid, signed contract in the first place. Blessing was approached about a playing opportunity for the 2026 PSL, with a deal agreed subject to obtaining a No Objection Certificate from Zimbabwe Cricket. An NOC cannot be obtained without a contract from the PSL. Despite a public announcement, no contract was ever provided. You simply cannot breach a contract you have never received, the agency said. According to the agency, when Muzarabani was approached by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on 27 Feb as a replacement signing for IPL 2026, there was no binding agreement tying him to the PSL, and the Zimbabwe pacer accepted the opportunity without violating any professional commitments. The PCB, led by Mohsin Naqvi, had earlier imposed a two-year ban, citing a failure to honor commitments and a breach of the leagues code of conduct. However, the players camp has described the punishment as incredibly excessive and demanded that the PSL authority lift the ban. According to the agency, when Muzarabani was approached by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on 27 Feb as a replacement signing for IPL 2026, there was no binding agreement tying him to the PSL, and the Zimbabwe pacer accepted the opportunity without violating any professional commitments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Muzarabani has played only two matches for KKR in IPL 2026. He went wicketless in the first match, but camebreach back strongly against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and took four wickets. Article Source: IANS
Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals Live Score Updates, IPL 2026: Head-to-Head
KKR vs RR LIVE Score, IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi On Cusp Of Huge Milestone As RR Face KKR
KKR vs RR LIVE Score, IPL 2026 LIVE Cricket Updates: Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Rajasthan Royals in their IPL 2026 clash on Sunday at the Eden Gardens.
TMC Denies Claims of I-PAC Halting Operations in West Bengal for 20 Days
Kolkata, April 19: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has refuted claims made by the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) regarding a 20-day suspension of operations in West Bengal. In an official statement, TMC asserted that there is an attempt to spread confusion. I-PAC has been functioning as a voter strategy agency for the TMC since 2022. ... Read more TMC Denies Claims of I-PAC Halting Operations in West Bengal for 20 Days
RR vs KKR IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals Eye Comeback as Kolkata Knight Riders Seek First Win
Rajasthan Royals aim to bounce back against winless KKR in IPL 2026. Ajinkya Rahanes side looks for its first victory as RR seek to regain momentum.
IPL 2026: KKR get timely boost as Rs 18 crore recruit finally joins squad
Kolkata Knight Riders have received a significant boost with the arrival of Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana, who has cleared fitness tests. Despite his presence, the team management might be cautious about his immediate inclusion. KKR, struggling with six winless matches and tactical questions, faces a strong Rajasthan Royals side.
Boost For Struggling Kolkata Knight Riders As Matheesha Pathirana Arrives In City
Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana has finally arrived in the city to join Kolkata Knight Riders, giving a much-needed boost to the side that is currently languishing at the bottom of the IPL table.
ED raids Kolkata police officer Shantanu Sinha Biswas, others in money laundering probe
IPL 2026 KKR VS RR: Check pitch report and weather forecast here
Kolkata Knight Riders, struggling with one point from six matches under Ajinkya Rahane, face a strong Rajasthan Royals led by Riyan Parag. The Royals have shown consistent performances, aiming to extend their winning streak. This encounter at Eden Gardens, historically a high-scoring venue, will test team combinations and execution as KKR seeks a turnaround.
KKR VS RR Playing 11: Check probable playing 11 and head-to-head record for today's match
KKR VS RR Playing 11: Rajasthan Royals aim for a strong comeback against Kolkata Knight Riders. RR seeks to recover from their recent defeat. KKR is still chasing their first victory this season. The match takes place at Eden Gardens. Fans can watch the game on Star Sports and JioHotstar. Both teams will field their best players for this crucial encounter.
ED conducts raids at residences of senior cop, businessman in Kolkata over money laundering
The Enforcement Directorate is searching locations linked to Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha Biswas and businessman Joy Kamdar in the Sona Pappu case under the PMLA
ED raids Kolkata police officer, others in money laundering probe linked to criminal syndicate
The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids on Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha Biswas and Joy Kamdar. This action is part of a money laundering investigation. The probe targets alleged criminal Biswajit Podder and his syndicate. The ED previously seized cash and valuables in this case. Podder is wanted for various criminal charges and is currently on the run.
IPL 2026: Crisis-hit KKR brace for tough Rajasthan Royals test
Kolkata Knight Riders are struggling at the halfway stage of the IPL with no wins, facing a daunting task to turn their season around. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane's leadership and confusing batting order decisions, particularly for Cameron Green, have drawn criticism. They now face a Rajasthan Royals side looking to rebound after a recent loss.
ED Raids Homes of Kolkata Police DCP and Joy Kamdar in Money Laundering Case
Kolkata, April 19: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a raid at the residence of Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha Biswas in the Ballygunge area, as well as at the home of Joy Kamdar, Managing Director of Sun Enterprises in Behala. So far, three locations have been raided, two linked to Biswas and one ... Read more ED Raids Homes of Kolkata Police DCP and Joy Kamdar in Money Laundering Case
EC adds around 7 lakh new voters ahead of polls in West Bengal
Kolkata: Around seven lakh new voters have been added to West Bengal electoral rolls ahead of the assembly elections, with the Election Commission yet to disclose the age or gender break-up of this additional electorate, officials said on Saturday, April 18. Around 3.22 lakh of these new voters will vote in the first phase, while Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
KKR vs RR Match 28, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
KKR vs RR Match 28 , Cricket Tips :The campaign for Kolkata Knight Riders is in danger of an early exit, as they have not won a single match in the IPL 2026. KKR have slipped to the bottom of the table with only one point in six matches. They are gearing up to face Rajasthan Royals on Sunday afternoon. This contest will be held at Eden Gardens at 3:30 PM IST. KKR need to win to stay alive in the competition. On the other hand, RR have been pretty consistent so far. They had a poor last game against SRH, but before that they managed four consecutive victories. KKR vs RR: Match Details Date : April 19, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 3:30 PM IST Venue : Eden Gardens, Kolkata KKR vs RR Live Streaming Details The live action of the KKR vs RR contest on Sunday will be available on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the live stream of the match on the Jio Hotstar app or website. KKR vs RR Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 32 KKR : 16 RR : 14 No - Result : 02 KKR vs RR: Ground Pitch Report Eden Gardens is a good batting venue, and it has hosted many high-scoring clashes, including the highest IPL chase. This wicket is flat, and bowlers have very little help. However, the wicket will be dry, and spinners will get good assistance. Hence, the toss will be crucial, and bowling first will be a good option. KKR vs RR Possible XIs KKR : Tim Seifert (wk), Ajinkya Rahane (c), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Cameron Green, Rovman Powell, Anukul Roy, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Sunil Narine, Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi RR : Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi KKR vs RR Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi will be the one to watch out for. If he plays 12-15 balls, RR will be on top. For KKR, Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been consistent throughout this season and will be the one to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Jofra Archer has made a difference with some good opening spells. He will be tough to face in the powerplay. For KKR, Kartik Tyagi has been good. He is bowling with pace and accuracy. Today Match Prediction : KKR are no way near their best. Hence, we back in-form Rajasthan Royals to win this game. KKR vs RR Match 28, IPL 2026, Today KKR vs RR Match, KKR vs RR Prediction, KKR vs RR Predicted XIs, Injury Update for KKR vs RR Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Assam Chief Minister Accuses Trinamool Congress of Appeasement Politics
Kolkata, April 19: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused the Trinamool Congress of engaging in appeasement politics during an election rally in Kalimpong, North Bengal, on Saturday. He asserted that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee should be removed from power. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has made the issue of infiltration a central ... Read more Assam Chief Minister Accuses Trinamool Congress of Appeasement Politics
Struggling Kolkata Knight Riders Get Matheesha Pathirana Boost
Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana is finally joining Kolkata Knight Riders late on Saturday, giving a much-needed boost to the side, who are currently languishing at the bottom of the IPL table
Rajasthan Chief Minister Calls for Unity in Support of BJP in West Bengal
Kolkata, April 19: In a recent event held in Howrah, Kolkata, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma was honored by the local Rajasthan community. During his address, he launched a verbal attack on opposition parties while appealing for a decisive mandate in West Bengal. CM Sharma urged the audience to unite in support of the ... Read more Rajasthan Chief Minister Calls for Unity in Support of BJP in West Bengal
Bengal Elections: Election Commission Issues Strict Directives to Police Ahead of First Phase Voting
Kolkata, April 18: The Chief Electoral Officer of the state, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, warned police officials during a virtual meeting on Saturday that any form of unrest on voting day will not be tolerated. Immediate action will be taken in case of any unpleasant incidents during the polling. The Election Commission also cautioned that any ... Read more Bengal Elections: Election Commission Issues Strict Directives to Police Ahead of First Phase Voting
IPL 2026 points table: Check latest Orange and Purple Cap leaders
Delhi Capitals secured a six-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with strong batting performances from KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs. Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans edged out Kolkata Knight Riders by five wickets, propelled by Shubman Gill's impressive 86. The points table sees Punjab Kings leading, while RCB and RR follow closely.
IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma Scripts History With Fastest Fifty For SRH
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Indian batter Abhishek Sharma made history with a stunning 15-ball half-century, the fastest ever for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), during their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. The attacking left-hander broke the previous franchise record of 16 balls, which he had set against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2024. The same record had also been matched by his opening partner, Travis Head, twice that season against Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Batting first after losing the toss, Abhishek started carefully but soon picked up pace and attacked the bowlers with confidence. The turning point of his innings came in the fifth over, bowled by Matthew Short, where he completely took control and smashed 25 runs, including three fours and two back-to-back sixes, as he reached his record-breaking fifty in style. Abhisheks brilliant innings finally ended in the eighth over when Jamie Overton bowled a hard-length delivery. Abhishek tried to guide it towards the third man but edged it behind, where Sanju Samson completed a sharp catch. Samson was confident and convinced the captain to review, which confirmed the dismissal. Batting first after losing the toss, Abhishek started carefully but soon picked up pace and attacked the bowlers with confidence. The turning point of his innings came in the fifth over, bowled by Matthew Short, where he completely took control and smashed 25 runs, including three fours and two back-to-back sixes, as he reached his record-breaking fifty in style. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He has been in excellent form in IPL 2026 for Hyderabad, playing an important role as an aggressive opener. Recently, he became only the second SRH player to hit more than 100 sixes for the franchise. His performances this season also include a quick 48 off 21 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and a fiery 74 off 28 balls versus Punjab Kings (PBKS). The number one T20I batter has scored 125 runs in five matches in the ongoing season, which includes two half-centuries. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings Win Toss, Elect To Bowl Against Sunrisers Hyderabad
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Match 27 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Saturday. Dilshan Madushanka has come in place of Harsh Dubey in SRH, while Matthew Short replaced Akeal Hosein in CSK. SRH currently sit fourth on the points table, having secured two wins from five matches. Their season has been a bit inconsistent, but theyve managed important victories against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). With the advantage of playing at home, SRH will be looking to build on those positives and add two valuable points to their tally. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have regained some form after a difficult phase that saw them lose three matches in a row. Theyve responded well with consecutive wins over KKR and Delhi Capitals (DC). Despite this resurgence, CSK are still placed eighth in the standings, and the five-time champions will be aiming to keep the momentum going and move higher up the table with another strong performance. After winning the toss, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad said, We are going to bowl first. Looks like a really good track, won't change much, so we look to chase. Good to be up from the bottom. From the second game, we started doing the basics right. The key is to be consistent. Last game, I felt Noor bowled really well, and it's good to have him back on track, and even Anshul bowling really well at the death. In your language, it looks like a belter, but we have to assess it. While after losing the toss, SRH skipper Ishan Kishan said, I think we would have batted first. Looks like a good wicket, so we want to put up a good total. You have to bat for the team and not for individual performances. We just have to take it game by game, and it doesn't matter where we are right now because it's a long tournament. I think the ball is going to move a bit in the beginning, and the batters have to watch the ball and play well. Dilshan Madushanka comes in for Harsh Dubey for more swing upfront. Playing XIs: Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson(wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Matthew Short, Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh Impact substitutes: Ayush Mhatre, Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Matt Henry Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson(wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Matthew Short, Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Smaran Ravichandran, Harsh Dubey, Dilshan Madhushanka, Liam Livingstone, Harshal Patel Article Source: IANS
Eastern Commands Annual Conference: Focus on Strengthening Army Infrastructure
Kolkata, April 18: The Indian Armys Eastern Command held its annual working conference, named Structure Manthan 2026-27, in Kolkata at Vijay Durga. The conference emphasized the crucial role of the Eastern Command in strengthening military infrastructure. Discussions centered on the efficient and effective use of funds. Additionally, the adoption of modern construction techniques and the ... Read more Eastern Commands Annual Conference: Focus on Strengthening Army Infrastructure
IPL 2026: Pat Cummins Reaches Hyderabad Ahead Of SRH's Clash With CSK
ICC T20 World Cup: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have received a big boost ahead of their upcoming match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium as their designated captain Pat Cummins has arrived in the city. Cummins shared an Instagram Story showing him with his family at a restaurant. 'Happy to be back in Hyderabad,' he wrote in the caption. However, despite coming before the match, he will not take part in the encounter. Cummins arrived in India ahead of the season, but didn't take part in the match. The 32-year-old flew back to Australia right after SRHs thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 2 for the scan on his back. Australian Test captain cleared the fitness test on Friday, and he is now targeting to play his first match of the season on April 25, when SRH is scheduled to face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Jaipur. The Australian pacer has not played a single match since the Ashes series at home against England. He also missed the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where Australia exited for the first time from the group stage. In his absence, SRH experimented with their pace attack and found success in debutant fast bowlers Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, both of whom claimed four-wicket hauls against RR at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium earlier this week. The Australian pacer has not played a single match since the Ashes series at home against England. He also missed the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where Australia exited for the first time from the group stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score SRH's season has been a bit inconsistent, but theyve managed important victories against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). With the advantage of playing at home, SRH will be looking to build on those positives and add two valuable points to their tally against CSK. Article Source: IANS
Rashid Khan Welcomes Baby Boy After Gujarat Titans' Win Over Kolkata Knight Riders, Reveals Name
Afghanistan and GT star all-rounder Rashid Khan welcomed a baby boy on Saturday. He made the announcement on social media a day after GT's win over KKR.
Rashid Khan Welcomes Baby Boy After Gujarat Titans' Win Over Kolkata Knight Riders, Reveals Name NDTV Sports
Gill Is Technically So Good That You Will Never See Him Fall Short Of Runs: Piyush Chawla
Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India spinner Piyush Chawla credited Shubman Gills composed knock for tilting Gujarat Titans clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders decisively, while also pointing out the AJinkya Rahane-led teams failure to capitalise at the death as the turning point in the game. Gills fluent 86 powered GT to a five-wicket win at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday. He anchored the 181-run chase with authority and control, helping his side clinch their third consecutive victory. We all know what Shubman Gill is capable of. When he is on song, he is such a pleasing batter to watch. In this knock of 86, Gill played only cricketing shots. He made sure he put the KKR bowling attack on the back foot just by playing those normal cricketing shots. He played on the merit of the ball, hardly taking any risks. He just made sure that everything pitched in his area went out of the park. That is the beauty of his batting. He is technically so good that you will never see him fall short of runs, Chawla told JioStar. Gills innings ensured GT stayed ahead for most of the chase, even as KKR managed to drag the contest into the final over before Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan calmly finished the job. Chawla, however, felt KKR had let the match slip earlier despite a strong platform set by Cameron Green, who top-scored with 79. KKR looked like they were going to cross the 200-run mark easily after scoring 139 at the end of 14 overs, thanks to Cameron Greens brilliant batting. After losing three wickets in the Powerplay, the way they came back in the middle overs was magnificent to watch. Since the beginning of IPL 2026, we have been talking about the middle phase being a problem for KKR. Gills innings ensured GT stayed ahead for most of the chase, even as KKR managed to drag the contest into the final over before Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan calmly finished the job. Chawla, however, felt KKR had let the match slip earlier despite a strong platform set by Cameron Green, who top-scored with 79. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR eventually finished on 180 after losing six wickets for just 33 runs in the final phase, a collapse that allowed Gujarat Titans bowlers to pull things back and keep the target within reach. Article Source: IANS
CSK Must Play MS Dhoni, It Will Give Them An Extra Edge Against SRH: Aditya Tare
Batting Coach Matthew Hayden: Former Mumbai cricketer Aditya Tare stressed the importance of MS Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings setup ahead of their key fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday, stating that the former CSK captains experience in a relatively young side, especially in high-pressure encounters, will be crucial. Chennai Super Kings need MS Dhoni more than ever. If he is fit to play, he has to play against Sunrisers Hyderabad in any capacity. I would personally want him to keep wickets for the full 20 overs because he is excellent behind the stumps. No disrespect to Sanjus wicket-keeping, but you need that experience, Tare told JioStar. With Chennai preparing for a crucial outing, Tare believes Dhonis leadership and on-field inputs could prove decisive in tight situations, particularly for a side blending youth with experience. There is a lot of youth in CSKs line-up and their two debutants Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer need that guidance of someone as experienced as Mahi bhai. The team has shown a lot of faith in those two players, but if you have MSD, you have to make him play. His presence will help Kartik and Prashant handle the pressure better. Mahi bhai has always been a great support to Ruturaj and to the bowlers. We have seen him constantly talking to the bowlers and guiding them and that is something which will give an extra edge to Chennai against SRH, he added. Reflecting on Gujarat Titans chase against the Kolkata Knight Riders, Tare highlighted Gills composure and control through the innings. There is a lot of youth in CSKs line-up and their two debutants Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer need that guidance of someone as experienced as Mahi bhai. The team has shown a lot of faith in those two players, but if you have MSD, you have to make him play. His presence will help Kartik and Prashant handle the pressure better. Mahi bhai has always been a great support to Ruturaj and to the bowlers. We have seen him constantly talking to the bowlers and guiding them and that is something which will give an extra edge to Chennai against SRH, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans chased down 180 runs with ease. Yes, the game went to the last over, but Shubman Gill had already done the damage with the bat. He looked in complete command and his shot selection was excellent. He ran singles and doubles well and played proper cricketing strokes. GTs Batting Coach Matthew Hayden would be proud of him. Gill controlled the middle overs against KKR and Gujarats win showed how KKR felt after the game. They simply had no answers to the way Gill batted, Tare noted. Article Source: IANS
Shubman Gill Takes the Lead in IPL 2026 Orange Cap Race with 251 Runs
Ahmedabad, April 18: Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill has surged to the top of the Orange Cap leaderboard in IPL 2026. Following a match-winning performance of 86 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders, Gill now boasts a total of 251 runs from four matches. He has achieved a strike rate of 154.94 and an impressive average ... Read more Shubman Gill Takes the Lead in IPL 2026 Orange Cap Race with 251 Runs
Rinku Singhs Fall from Grace: KKRs Struggles Continue in IPL 2026
New Delhi, April 18: The IPL 2023 match on April 9 in Ahmedabad between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) introduced a rising star in Indian cricket, Rinku Singh. However, his recent performances have left much to be desired. In that memorable match, KKR faced a daunting target of 205 runs. Needing 29 ... Read more Rinku Singhs Fall from Grace: KKRs Struggles Continue in IPL 2026
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch PBKS Vs LSG Clash, Know All Details
PCA New Cricket Stadium: Punjab Kings will host Lucknow Super Giants in the 29th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the PCA New Cricket Stadium. PBKS is the only team that hasn't lost this season. They have won four of their five games, and their game against the Kolkata Knight Riders was called off. Shreyas Iyer leads PBKS, and they have been especially good at chasing down runs, as shown by their impressive net run rate of 1.067. Their batting unit has always come through under pressure, which has helped them win nine of their last eleven matches while chasing since the 2025 season. This trend continued in their recent win over the Mumbai Indians. The Lucknow Super Giants will need to put in a lot of work to stop their rise, as they are full of confidence and in good form. Lucknow, on the other hand, is having a hard time right now. They are in seventh place on the points table and have lost two games in a row. In the IPL, the Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings have had a fair rivalry, with both teams winning three of the six games they have played against each other. When: April 19, Sunday, 7:30 PM IST Where: PCA New Stadium, New Chandigarh Where to watch: The PBKS vs LSG match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod (wicketkeeper), Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Mitchell Owen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey, Vishal Nishad. Punjab Kings: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rishabh Pant (C), Aiden Markram, Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmad, Arshin Kulkarni, George Linde (replacement for Wanindu Hasaranga), Ayush Badoni, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, M. Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Arjun Tendulkar, Anrich Nortje, Naman Tiwari, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan. Article Source: IANS
Weapons seized in central Kolkata, one detained ahead of West Bengal polls
Acting on suspicion, STF sleuths intercepted the man, carrying a bag, near a bus stand and recovered six single-shot firearms and 14 cartridges from him, an official
West Bengal polls: Azharuddin backs Congresss Adhir Ranjan in Baharampur
Kolkata: Telangana Minister Mohammad Azharuddin on Saturday, April 18, campaigned for Congress nominee Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in the Baharampur assembly constituency in West Bengals Murshidabad district. Ahead of a roadshow in the town, Azharuddin cited Chowdhurys long political experience and connection with the region and appealed to voters to support the Congress candidate. People gathered Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch KKR Vs RR Clash, Know All Details
The Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will host Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the 28th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, at the Eden Gardens. The Kolkata Knight Riders have had a rough start to their campaign, getting only one point from their first six games, thanks to a rainout against the Punjab Kings. Ajinkya Rahane has led the team, but they haven't been able to find their rhythm. Neither the batting nor the bowling units have been able to work together at any point in the tournament so far. On the other hand, the Rajasthan Royals have become one of the more stable teams this season. The Royals, led by Riyan Parag, have been calm and consistent, winning important games to stay firmly in the race for the top of the points table. The match will take place at Eden Gardens, a place known for high-scoring games before spinners start to play. The way the teams are put together and how they carry out their plans could be very important. In 32 IPL meetings, KKR hold a slight edge with 16 wins, while RR have claimed 14 victories, with two matches ending without a result. As KKR look to spark a turnaround in front of their home crowd, RR will be keen to maintain their momentum and tighten their grip on a strong campaign. When: April 19, Sunday, 3:30 PM IST Where: Eden Gardens Where to watch: Where to watch: The KKR vs RR match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: Where to watch: The KKR vs RR match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals: Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Donovan Ferreira, Sandeep Sharma, Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Kwena Maphaka, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, Sushant Mishra, Yash Raj Punja, Vignesh Puthur, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao, Brijesh Sharma, Adam Milne, Kuldeep Sen. Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Iyer Says His Mission As PBKS Skipper Is To go Full Throttle And Lift The Trophy
Indian Premier League: Shreyas Iyer has led Punjab Kings (PBKS) brilliantly since joining the franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season and taking over the captaincy. With IPL 2026 underway now and Iyers team on top of the rankings, the Mumbai-born made it clear that the ultimate objective remains unchanged, while emphasising a process-driven approach. The mission, obviously, is to lift the trophy. But I always feel that the more you stay in the present, the more you stay in control of what is in your hands at that moment and you just have to go full throttle. You dont have to think too far ahead or dwell on the past. I reiterate the same point to my teammates as well, that when we are out there, we are playing for ourselves, not against the opponents. We just want to improve each day and make sure we put our best foot forward. When everything comes together and that synergy builds, everything falls into place, Iyer told JioStar. Having led Punjab to the brink of glory in the Indian Premier League 2025, where they fell just six runs short against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Iyer has quickly become a fan favourite, fondly dubbed Sarpanch Saab for his leadership style. I love it. I was clueless at the start of my journey with Punjab Kings about how the Sarpanch tag came up and what it meant. But later, when I asked a couple of my teammates, they explained that Sarpanch means the head of a family, a group, or even a district. That gave me clarity, and from there onwards, my journey started, Iyer said, reflecting on the nickname that underscores his role within the squad. Iyers impact was immediate last season, headlined by a blistering unbeaten 97 on debut for Punjab, where he prioritised the teams total over personal milestones. Honestly, at that moment, I told Shashank not to overthink because there were 10 balls left. I thought I would get at least one ball out of those 10. So, I told him, You can play freely, dont think too much. In the last over as well, I gave him that belief, that its okay to take it on and not worry about my hundred. In the back of my mind, I felt I would get at least one ball somehow. But then he played the entire over, and I was happy that we got 240 on the board. To get that score in the first match of the season sets the rhythm, he stated. The skipper also highlighted his collaborative leadership style, citing an instance in which teammates' input proved decisive in a crunch situation. When you are on the ground, every individual is involved in the game, and everyones inputs matter in that situation. When bowlers come and say they can execute a certain plan, its important to back them because their instincts can be strong as well. At the same time, there are situations when they run out of ideas and ask what they should do, and thats when I step in and provide input. It goes hand in hand, its not like I always dictate terms. Even in team meetings, players come up with solid points, and you have to value what they bring. We had discussed bowling wide yorkers to Rutherford because wherever else we pitched, he was going bonkers. The plan worked, and Vyshak ended up being the hero in that game, he said. Iyer also reflected on Punjabs dramatic turnaround in a low-scoring clash against Kolkata Knight Riders last season, where his side defended a modest total of 111 through relentless pressure and attacking intent. It goes hand in hand, its not like I always dictate terms. Even in team meetings, players come up with solid points, and you have to value what they bring. We had discussed bowling wide yorkers to Rutherford because wherever else we pitched, he was going bonkers. The plan worked, and Vyshak ended up being the hero in that game, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I made the field more attacking when a new batter came in, and they tried to play improvisational shots, like Ramandeep playing the sweep earlier. Credit goes to the bowlers as well, they were very consistent with their lines and lengths and had an attacking mindset. I keep telling them in every game that its not over until the last ball is bowled or the last run is scored. You never give up, you fight till the end. Weve seen so many matches where consistent wickets create pressure on the opposition, he added. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Wounded Rajasthan Royals eye rebound as struggling KKR seek spin spark at Eden
A struggling Kolkata Knight Riders, yet to secure a win after six matches, face a formidable Rajasthan Royals in an afternoon IPL fixture. KKR's woes are compounded by injuries and questionable on-field decisions, while RR, despite a recent halt to their winning streak, aim to capitalize on their opponents' form.
IPL 2026: Varun Chakaravarthy becomes third to 100 wickets for Kolkata Knight Riders
Varun Chakaravarthy achieved a significant milestone, taking his 100th IPL wicket for Kolkata Knight Riders. He joins Sunil Narine and Andre Russell in this elite club. Despite this personal achievement, KKR faced a loss against Gujarat Titans. Shubman Gill's strong performance guided GT to victory. KKR remains winless in the IPL 2026 season.
IPL 2026: Skipper Ajinkya Rahane urges KKR to embrace tough days, play with freedom
Winless after six matches, Kolkata Knight Riders' playoff hopes are fading, but skipper Ajinkya Rahane urges the team to embrace tough phases and play with freedom. Despite a fifth defeat against Gujarat Titans, Rahane emphasized focusing on one game at a time and playing for their fans, highlighting the team's hard work and discussions on improvement.
Could KKRs Coaching Role Go to Former New Zealand Captain?
New Delhi, April 18: The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are experiencing a disappointing run in IPL 2026. The team has yet to secure a victory in the first six matches of the season. On Friday, KKR faced a 5-wicket defeat against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in a match held in Ahmedabad. Following KKRs string of ... Read more Could KKRs Coaching Role Go to Former New Zealand Captain?
IPL 2026: 'The Most Important Thing Is To Win', Says Rabada On Concern Over NRR
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kagiso Rabada emphasised that the most important thing is to win after delivering a match-defining spell for Gujarat Titans against Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Rabada returned figures of 3/29 in his four overs at the Narendra Modi Stadium, playing a crucial role in restricting KKR. Despite conceding 12 runs in his opening over, the South African struck early by removing Angkrish Raghuvanshi and followed it up with the key wicket of Tim Seifert in the powerplay. He then delivered a tight third over, conceding just one run, before returning later to dismiss Rinku Singh, rounding off a superb spell. Reflecting on his approach across phases, Rabada explained how reading conditions remains central to his success. It depends. It's just about summarising how we feel the wicket is going to play in India Sometimes a wicket is not really going to play the way that you expect it to play, he said. He noted that while the surface looked like a typical red-soil pitch, it behaved differently due to moisture and uneven bounce. With the new ball, perhaps there was a bit more moisture a little bit of uneven bounce. So the batsmen couldn't really throw their hands at everything. Rabada also highlighted how bounce has consistently worked in his favour. I feel like extra bounce has probably been my ally throughout my entire career on pitches that perhaps have a bit more bounce, you are looking at that favouring my strength a bit more. Comparing styles, he added that bowlers like Mohammed Siraj thrive differently depending on conditions. The Titans strategy to attack early paid dividends, with Rabada and Siraj bowling through the powerplay. On any given day, you could have them 5 down in that powerplay. But we'll take 3 down any day, he remarked. On the broader team approach, Rabada dismissed any overemphasis on net run rate. The most important thing is to win The net run rate is something that you want to be good, but I don't think it's something that you prioritize. He stressed trusting batters to play their natural game: Those same guys are not coming to me telling me how to bowl. So we're not going to tell them how to bat. Addressing the decision to bowl first, Rabada acknowledged that chasing often holds an advantage in Indian conditions. It always feels as if the bowling team is under pressure defending but whether you bat or bowl first, you have to find a way to win. He stressed trusting batters to play their natural game: Those same guys are not coming to me telling me how to bowl. So we're not going to tell them how to bat. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The performance also marked a milestone for Rabada, taking him to 126 IPL wickets from 89 matches at an average of 23.19, including 15 wickets against KKR. Overall, he now has 306 wickets in T20 cricket, further cementing his status as one of the formats premier fast bowlers. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Ideally, We Would Have Liked To Finish At Least An Over Before, Says GT Skipper Gill
Kolkata Knight Riders: Shubman Gill may have led Gujarat Titans to a convincing five-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders, but the skipper admitted there was still room for improvement in how his side closed out the chase. Gill starred with a fluent 86 off 50 balls at the Narendra Modi Stadium, anchoring the pursuit of 181 with eight fours and four sixes as GT got home in 19.4 overs. Despite the comfortable result, the opener wasnt entirely satisfied with the finish. Ideally, we would have liked to finish at least an over, a couple of overs before, and I was quite disappointed with the way I got out. I wanted to be there till the end and finish it. Hopefully, the next chance I get, I would be able to do that, Gill said after the match. The victory marked Gujarat Titans third consecutive win of the season, following earlier victories against Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants. With six points from five games, GT moved up to fourth on the points table. KKR, on the other hand, remained winless at the bottom with just one point. Gills performance has been essential to GTs success. His latest innings earned him the Player of the Match award and allowed him to take the Orange Cap from Virat Kohli. The GT captain now has 251 runs in four matches, boasting an average of 62.75, which includes three half-centuries. Reflecting on his preparation ahead of the season, Gill revealed that a focused break helped elevate his game beyond just technique. I got a couple of months before this. And fitness was one thing that I worked on. And apart from that, just working on the mental aspect of the game and trying to get better, not just technically, but tactically as well, he added. Gills performance has been essential to GTs success. His latest innings earned him the Player of the Match award and allowed him to take the Orange Cap from Virat Kohli. The GT captain now has 251 runs in four matches, boasting an average of 62.75, which includes three half-centuries. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Honestly, the way both of them (Siraj and Rabada) were bowling was like they could get a wicket off every ball and giving them one extra over worked for us. I could see the ball was nipping a bit. I asked both of them whether they are okay to bowl an extra over as it was very hot out there and never easy to bowl three overs on the trot. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: KKR Skipper Rahane Credits Gill And Sudharsan After Fifth Straight Loss
Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane credited Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan for their match-winning effort after Gujarat Titans defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by five wickets in Ahmedabad, admitting his side failed to capitalise during key moments despite posting a competitive total. Gill led the chase with a commanding 86 off 50 balls at the Narendra Modi Stadium, striking eight fours and four sixes to guide GT to 181 in 19.4 overs. Sudharsan chipped in with a brisk 22 at the top, ensuring a strong powerplay foundation that proved decisive in the chase. Rahane acknowledged the quality of the Titans opening pair and pointed to KKRs inability to strike early as a turning point. I thought he batted really well [Shubman Gill]. I initially felt slightly back of length, the ball was slightly holding, anything up front, half-volleys were coming nicely, slightly dew as well. But again, no excuse, as I said, 180, we needed wickets in the powerplay, they batted beautifully. Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill batted beautifully, Rahane said after the match. Despite the defeat, the KKR skipper chose to highlight positives, particularly Cameron Greens fighting knock that helped the visitors recover from early setbacks. It's never easy after immediately losing the game, and come and talk about the game. I thought I just wanted to talk about the positives, especially the way we started two-three wickets down. In Cameron Green's innings, he was under pressure, but the kind of counter-attack he did had a positive impact. What he made was amazing to see, going after their bowlers. As you mentioned some time back, 147 for four, and from there, around 180 was slightly difficult from a batting unit, but credit to all our bowlers, the way they bowled, taking the game till the last over. Everyone contributed well, he added. Rahane acknowledged the quality of the Titans opening pair and pointed to KKRs inability to strike early as a turning point. I thought he batted really well [Shubman Gill]. I initially felt slightly back of length, the ball was slightly holding, anything up front, half-volleys were coming nicely, slightly dew as well. But again, no excuse, as I said, 180, we needed wickets in the powerplay, they batted beautifully. Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill batted beautifully, Rahane said after the match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The result pushes Gujarat Titans up to fourth on the points table with six points from five matches, while Kolkata Knight Riders continue their search for a first win, languishing at the bottom with just one point from their campaign so far. Article Source: IANS
Ajinkya Rahane Reflects on KKRs Struggles After Defeat to GT in IPL 2026
Ahmedabad, April 18: In a thrilling IPL 2026 match, the Gujarat Titans (GT) triumphed over the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by five wickets. Following KKRs fifth consecutive loss this season, captain Ajinkya Rahane addressed the media, acknowledging the slight dew on the field that posed challenges for the bowlers. Despite this, he praised Shubman Gills ... Read more Ajinkya Rahane Reflects on KKRs Struggles After Defeat to GT in IPL 2026
IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans Secure Victory Over KKR, Shubman Gill Claims Orange Cap
Ahmedabad, April 18: The losing streak for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) continues in IPL 2026. In a match held at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium on Friday, KKR faced a 5-wicket defeat against Gujarat Titans (GT). This marked KKRs fifth loss in the seasons sixth match, while GT celebrated their third victory in five matches. ... Read more IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans Secure Victory Over KKR, Shubman Gill Claims Orange Cap
Shubman Gill's big IPL title warning after Gujarat Titans beat Kolkata Knight Riders
Shubman Gill expressed satisfaction after Gujarat Titans secured a thrilling five-wicket IPL victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite the win, Gill admitted a desire to finish the chase sooner and was disappointed with his dismissal. He highlighted his improved fitness and mental game as key to his stellar 86-run performance, emphasizing staying present to enhance his batting.
IPL 2026: KKR Slump To 5th Loss As Gill Shines In GT Victory
Shubman Gill delivered another commanding performance at the Narendra Modi Stadium, scoring a fluent 86 to guide Gujarat Titans to a five-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday, April 17.
Gill goes past Kohli to lead IPL 2026 Orange Cap race
The latest updates from the IPL 2026 Orange and Purple Cap tables at the end of Gujarat Titans' win over Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR's next coach decided? Kevin Pietersen makes bold prediction
Kolkata Knight Riders are in a deep slump, losing their fifth match and sitting at the bottom of the IPL 2026 table. Despite a coaching change, results remain elusive. Former England batter Kevin Pietersen has predicted a return for ex-coach Brendon McCullum next season. Captain Ajinkya Rahane acknowledged the tough losses but highlighted positive individual performances.
IPL 2026: Varun Chakaravarthy scripts history for KKR, first Indian to ...
Varun Chakaravarthy achieved a historic 100 wickets for Kolkata Knight Riders, becoming the first Indian to do so for the franchise. Despite his personal milestone, KKR suffered another defeat against Gujarat Titans, who chased down 181 thanks to Shubman Gill's unbeaten 86. KKR remains winless, struggling at the bottom of the IPL 2026 standings.
