The Times of India

Sunrisers Hyderabad has signed England pacer David Payne as an injury replacement for Jack Edwards for Rs 1.5 crore. Payne, a left-arm fast-medium bowler with extensive T20 experience and 304 wickets, joins SRH ahead of their IPL 2026 opener. He previously played one ODI for England and excelled in various T20 leagues.

Delhi Capitals have heavily revamped their squad for IPL 2026, spending nearly their entire purse to acquire new talent. With a blend of retained experienced players and new signings like Pathum Nissanka and David Miller, DC aims to overcome past underachievements and challenge for their maiden title.

Impact Player Rule: Game-changer or all-rounder killer?

Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill desires his fast bowlers to exhibit the same intensity and aggression as former India pacer Ashish Nehra. Gill wants his pace attack to be fierce, drawing inspiration from Nehra's passionate on-field demeanor. This comes as the team aims to rectify mistakes from last season and contend for the IPL 2026 title.

Chennai Super Kings celebrated their IPL legacy with a special event at Chepauk, bringing together current stars and former legends. A heartwarming moment saw MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina join Dwayne Bravo and Murali Vijay on a video call, sharing laughter and CSK's iconic slogan ahead of IPL 2026.

England captain Ben Stokes has revealed the recent Ashes defeat was the most challenging period of his captaincy. Despite the 4-1 loss and internal issues, Stokes reaffirmed his commitment to leading the team forward with head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key, vowing to improve and bring pride to the fans.

M Chinnaswamy Stadium will honor 11 fans lost in a tragedy. A memorial plaque and 11 reserved seats will be unveiled. Royal Challengers Bengaluru will lead tributes before the match. The stadium remembers the lives lost during celebrations. This tribute ensures their memory remains part of the venue.

Virat Kohli reflects on Royal Challengers Bengaluru's historic IPL 2025 triumph, calling the final moments of the title clash against Punjab Kings the most nerve-wracking phase. Despite victory being within reach, the wait for the last few deliveries tested his emotions, bringing back memories of his 18-year journey with the franchise.

Rebel groups have issued a stark warning to international cricketers, urging them to pull out of the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL). Citing the volatile security situation in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, the TTP faction claims player safety cannot be guaranteed. This threat casts a shadow over the tournament, which the PCB insists will proceed as planned.

Sunrisers Hyderabad faces a mixed start to IPL 2026 as captain Pat Cummins will miss the initial games due to a back injury, with Ishan Kishan stepping in as interim leader. Meanwhile, the team's pace attack receives a boost with the arrival of Sri Lankan pacer Eshan Malinga, who has secured his NOC.

KKR's explosive batting and strong spin attack, featuring Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine, offer significant advantages. However, concerns linger over a fragile pace department due to injuries and the departure of key players. Ajinkya Rahane's form and Varun Chakravarthy's recent bowling struggles pose potential threats to the team's leadership and spin dominance.

Sri Lanka Cricket has cleared young pacer Eshan Malinga for IPL 2026, with Sunrisers Hyderabad expecting his arrival soon. However, key players like Hasaranga and Pathirana are still awaiting clearance due to missed fitness tests. Nuwan Thushara's status also remains uncertain under SLC's strict policy. Several others have already received their NOCs.

IPL teams will no longer hold practice sessions on match days starting in 2026, with new regulations outlining net and wicket allocations. Strict rules are in place for player movement, fitness tests, and attire during matches and presentations to ensure smooth operations and broadcasting.

Kolkata Knight Riders' massive Rs 25.20 crore investment in Cameron Green faces intense scrutiny, mirroring past expensive buys like Mitchell Starc and Rishabh Pant. While some flourish, many falter under the immense pressure of their price tags. Green's form post-surgery and bowling workload are key concerns for KKR, who are banking on his past IPL success.

If Delhi Capitals are to end their IPL title drought, Axar Patel will have to step up with the bat, ball and as a captain. Interestingly, Axar has never crossed the 300-run mark in the IPL in the 162 games he has played over twelve years. The all-rounder is yet to better his debut season with the ball, where he picked up 17 wickets for Kings XI Punjab, now Punjab Kings.

As IPL 2026 nears, 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' is dominating headlines, even overshadowing cricket. This spy-action sequel, a box office sensation, has fans scrambling for tickets, with cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar himself struggling to secure a seat. The film's immense popularity is evident as players and captains alike are flocking to cinemas, proving its widespread appeal.

The review, which was announced soon after the final Test in January, was completed on Monday. ECB chief executive Richard Gould said removing individuals would have been the easier option but the board has chosen not to take that route.

Fast bowler Mayank Yadav has transformed his fitness and recovery approach after surgery, previously neglecting his body. Now, he prioritizes recovery, nutrition, and sleep, inspired by Jasprit Bumrah's guidance. Yadav, who recorded the fastest Indian delivery in IPL 2024, discovered his pace talent early and was inspired by Morne Morkel and Dale Steyn.

Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane signaled his intent for IPL 2026 with a rapid 58 off 25 balls in a practice game. Despite a tough 2025, Rahane, the team's leading scorer, expressed optimism and a positive outlook towards the upcoming season. He emphasized the importance of a strong start and consistent performance for the revamped KKR squad.

In a statement issued on Monday, the board said it had been in touch with the Ministry of Youth & Sports and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before taking a decision.

Indian cricketer Axar Patel revealed the team's temple visits during major tournaments are often for convenience and security. He also reiterated his strong disapproval of the Impact Player rule, stating it negatively affects all-rounders like himself by reducing the need for multi-skilled players. Patel's views echo those of other senior players.

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has shared positive news about his recovery, stating he's improving daily after a recent hamstring injury. The Al-Nassr captain sustained the setback during a league match, leading to his omission from Portugal's upcoming friendlies. While his return timeline remains unconfirmed, fans are hopeful for his swift comeback to the pitch.

India's sports economy has surged past $2 billion, driven by a 13.4% year-on-year increase to $2.13 billion. Cricket dominates, accounting for 89% of total receipts and a staggering Rs 16,704 crore. Emerging Sports' share has contracted to 11%, with the postponement of the Indian Super League impacting growth.

Rajasthan Royals face a setback as Sam Curran is out of IPL 2026 due to injury. Dasun Shanaka has been signed as his replacement. Shanaka brings T20 experience and all-round ability. The Royals begin their campaign against Chennai Super Kings on March 30. They will then play Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Hyderabad begin their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28. While focus remains on players like Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen and Liam Livingstone, Pathan said Reddy could provide balance after a dip in form last season.

Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel expressed his dislike for the Impact Player rule ahead of IPL 2026, believing it devalues all-rounders. He feels teams now prioritize specialist players, impacting his role. Despite a challenging bowling season in 2025 due to a finger injury, Axar had a strong batting performance, scoring significantly.

Jasprit Bumrah has arrived at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Karnataka, with his presence not confirmed to be injury-related or for routine checks. This comes as Mumbai Indians' T20 World Cup winning players, including Bumrah, were granted an extended break. MI's IPL 2026 campaign begins against KKR on March 29.

Indian Grandmaster (GM) Koneru Humpy withdrew from the FIDE Womens Candidates in Cyprus citing safety concerns amid Middle East tensions and Level 3 travel advisories. She prioritised security over competing, despite potential fines and lost title chances. Criticising FIDE for not reconsidering the venue, Humpy called the decision mentally taxing but necessary, urging fans to understand her stance.

Pakistan Cricket Board chief Mohsin Naqvi has responded to former head coach Gary Kirsten's claims of significant interference during his tenure. Naqvi stated he had limited engagement with Kirsten and suggested those directly involved should address the allegations. Kirsten, who resigned after six months, cited constant external noise and punitive actions as major challenges.

Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has raised questions about Riyan Parag's appointment as Rajasthan Royals captain for IPL 2026. Srikkanth suggests Parag receives preferential treatment within the franchise. He noted Parag's inconsistent performance last season. The Royals' chances for the upcoming season are seen as unpredictable. Their top order has the potential to win matches.

Axar Patel questions Impact Player rule: All-rounders lose value

The development comes a day after the league was reduced to a closed-door event at two venues Karachi and Lahore amid the ongoing West Asia situation and related security issues.

Ravichandran Ashwin believes Suryakumar Yadav should captain Mumbai Indians, citing his unbeaten T20I record and World Cup triumph. Despite Hardik Pandya's past success with Gujarat Titans, Ashwin feels Suryakumar's current leadership of India makes him the more logical choice for MI. The franchise faces a leadership dilemma as the IPL 2026 season approaches.

Rajasthan Royals' young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, set to turn 15, is poised for IPL 2026 after a record-breaking debut. His meteoric rise includes international centuries and a match-winning U-19 World Cup performance. While lauded for his talent, questions linger about his professional approach off the field, sparking debate among cricket veterans.

Pakistan's Sahibzada Farhan has been crowned ICC Men's Player of the Month for February 2026 after smashing Virat Kohli's T20 World Cup record with 383 runs. India's Arundhati Reddy also earned the Women's Player of the Month award for her stellar bowling performance in Australia. Both players expressed immense pride in their achievements.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru held their first warm-up game for IPL 2026, with Virat Kohli showing good form. Jitesh Sharma starred with a blistering 81, while Rajat Patidar sealed the win for Team Krunal. RCB begin their title defence against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28, facing player unavailability.

Is this Indias best white-ball team? Nikhil Chopra on 2027 ODI World Cup

Delhi Capitals are awaiting Cricket Australia's clearance for pace spearhead Mitchell Starc's participation in IPL 2026. While coach Hemang Badani confirmed no official update, captain Axar Patel and Director of Cricket Venugopal Rao expressed optimism about his eventual arrival. Starc, 36, is expected to miss initial matches due to workload management.

Sourav Ganguly lauded Gautam Gambhir's coaching success, highlighting his T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy wins. While acknowledging Gambhir's aggressive style, Ganguly believes he doesn't need to be rude, calling him a good man and a competitor. Ganguly expressed confidence in Gambhir improving his Test coaching, especially on good wickets, and expects him to master away tours.

Suresh Raina, affectionately known as 'Mr. IPL', was inducted into the Chennai Super Kings Hall of Fame, celebrating his significant contributions to the franchise's four title wins. Fans cheered as he received the honour, with MS Dhoni's wife adding a personal touch by calling him 'Gracia ke papa'. Raina's remarkable IPL career includes 5,528 runs in 205 matches.

Hardik Pandya & Kieron Pollard Address MI Fans in Aamchi Mumbai

Anna Muzychuk will play in the Cyprus Candidates Tournament. Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy withdrew citing safety concerns. The tournament will decide challengers for world championship titles. Humpy's withdrawal is a setback for India. Other Indians participating include R Praggnanandhaa, R Vaishali, and Divya Deshmukh. FIDE confirmed Muzychuk's inclusion.

Sanju Samson transitions to Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2026. He recently played a key role in India's T20 World Cup 2026 victory. Samson shared a memorable moment with MS Dhoni and Muttiah Muralitharan during a CSK event. India won their third T20 World Cup title. CSK begins their IPL 2026 season against Rajasthan Royals.

Fans eagerly await MS Dhoni's IPL future, with many hoping he continues beyond 2026. When questioned about retirement, the former CSK captain offered a subtle hint, stating, It is very difficult. It is on the way down, not on the way up. But I will try, sparking thunderous applause from the excited crowd.

Kuldeep Yadav reflects on India's consecutive T20 World Cup triumphs, calling it an incredible feeling. He highlights his father's encouragement as his career's biggest moment and was moved by Sanju Samson's crucial World Cup knock. Yadav is focused on taking wickets for Delhi Capitals in the IPL and gradually preparing for the ODI World Cup.

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla revealed that Sourav Ganguly's iconic T-shirt twirl at Lord's in 2002 was initially intended as a team celebration. However, Sachin Tendulkar advised against it, deeming it inappropriate. Ganguly proceeded alone, creating a memorable cricketing moment after India's NatWest Trophy win.

Lucknow hosted the Times of India Sports Awards, celebrating Indian sporting royalty with glamour. Olympians, world champions, and para-athletes graced the red carpet. Hosts Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi kept the energy high, while candid moments with the women's cricket team and Taapsee Pannu added charm. The emotional highlight was para chess winner Vaibhav Gautam's standing ovation.

MS Dhoni's priceless reaction was captured as former CSK star Michael Hussey smashed a six during an exhibition match at Chepauk. The game, featuring ex-CSK players against the current squad, saw Hussey, now the batting coach, hit a big shot off Ruturaj Gaikwad's bowling, much to Dhoni's amusement. The event celebrated CSK's legacy with a crowd of enthusiastic fans.