The Times of India

Cricket Canada has appointed Monty Desai as the new head coach of the men's national team, marking a pivotal moment for the country's cricketing future. Desai, with extensive experience in Associate cricket, including significant success with Nepal, aims to restore Canada's prominence through performance and a long-term vision.

KL Rahul lauded Rajasthan Royals' 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, highlighting his phenomenal rise as a testament to T20 cricket's evolution. Sooryavanshi's fearless approach and exceptional batting, including two centuries at a young age, showcase the new generation's aggressive mindset, a trend amplified by the IPL.

Sunrisers Hyderabad have signed teenage all-rounder RS Ambrish as a mid-season replacement for the injured Shivam Mavi for IPL 2026. Ambrish, an 18-year-old right-arm medium pacer and left-handed batter, was a key performer for India's U19 World Cup winning team. He joins SRH for Rs 30 lakh, aiming to leverage this opportunity on the big stage.

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has impressed in IPL 2026, scoring 400 runs at a strike rate of 238.10 against top bowlers. He now faces a new challenge against Mitchell Starc, who has recovered from injury and joined Delhi Capitals. The duel between the fearless youngster and the experienced Australian quick is anticipated to be a key contest.

Virender Sehwag champions Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the Indian team, citing his vintage form. The swing king recently became the first Indian pacer to bag 350 T20 wickets, leading the Purple Cap race with 17 wickets. Sehwag lauded his sharp bowling against top batters, urging selectors to consider him for the T20 format.

Rajasthan Royals' 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is on the verge of a major T20 milestone, needing just one six to reach 100 career sixes. He has already achieved several remarkable records this IPL season, including the fastest 400 runs and youngest to 1,000 T20 runs.

Vikram Solanki on GT strategy, pitch & team decisions

Bhuvneshwar Kumar on RCB loss: It was just one off day

Shikhar Dhawan on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, life after retirement and more

Jasprit Bumrah is experiencing an uncharacteristic lean patch in IPL 2026, with his bowling average soaring to 132, the worst of his T20 career. Despite his historical dominance, he has struggled to take wickets and has conceded sixes to batsmen he previously contained. Experts cite a demanding international schedule and potential mental pressure as contributing factors to his current struggles.

Sunrisers Hyderabad star Heinrich Klaasen sternly warned a fan attempting to photograph him and his family. The incident, captured on video, saw Klaasen threaten to retaliate if the fan continued. This follows similar encounters with other IPL cricketers facing unsolicited photo requests.

Virat Kohli and Ishant Sharma shared a heartwarming reunion during an IPL 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans, showcasing their enduring friendship. The game also featured a controversial dismissal of RCB's Rajat Patidar, which visibly irked Kohli and the RCB camp. Gujarat Titans ultimately secured a close four-wicket victory.

South African batter Heinrich Klaasen suggests T20 cricket should be treated as a distinct sport, allowing leagues to thrive and globalize the game. He believes cricketers are moving towards football-like careers, though purists resist a future where international cricket is diminished. Klaasen emphasizes T20's role in evolving the sport and coaching methodologies.

A thrilling contest awaits as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi faces Mitchell Starc tonight. The aggressive young batter, known for his explosive starts, takes on the seasoned Australian pacer returning from injury. Sooryavanshi's remarkable strike rate against top bowlers sets the stage for a high-octane duel, with Starc aiming to curb his fearless approach.

Former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop suggests India's T20 World Cup winners might have benefited from a longer break before the IPL, citing their subsequent inconsistent performances. He also advocates for more varied pitches to balance the game between bat and ball, noting that strong bowling is crucial for champion teams.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup, set to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Despite recent geopolitical tensions and reports of visa issues for Iranian officials, Infantino stressed football's power to unite a divided world, assuring Iran will play in the USA.

Kagiso Rabada dismissed Virat Kohli early in the IPL 2026 clash between Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Despite a tough start, Rabada bounced back to take Kohli's prized wicket, triggering an intense celebration. RCB struggled and were bowled out for 155, with Gujarat Titans securing a four-wicket victory.

A controversial catch by Jason Holder dismissed Rajat Patidar during the RCB vs GT IPL clash, sparking outrage. Despite replays appearing inconclusive, the third umpire upheld the decision. Former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin clarified that Holder's grip likely prevented the ball from touching the ground, validating the umpire's call.

Virat Kohli was seen in an animated exchange with an umpire during the Gujarat Titans vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL match. The incident occurred after Rajat Patidar's dismissal, with replays appearing inconclusive. Despite the controversy, the third umpire upheld the on-field decision, leaving Kohli and the RCB dugout visibly frustrated.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has reclaimed the IPL 2026 Purple Cap lead with 17 wickets after a stellar 3/28 performance. He now leads Eshan Malinga by two wickets, with Jofra Archer, Anshul Kamboj, and Kagiso Rabada closely trailing. The race for the highest wicket-taker remains intensely competitive as the league stage progresses.

Two Sri Lanka Under-19 cricketers were arrested in Colombo after women accused them of filming them while bathing in a hotel. The players, released on bail, are under police investigation for potential online sharing of alleged videos. Sri Lanka Cricket has yet to announce disciplinary measures amidst recent board changes.

Delhi Capitals receive a significant boost with Mitchell Starc's availability for their IPL 2026 clash against Rajasthan Royals. Bowling coach Munaf Patel confirmed the pacer's recovery, highlighting his crucial role in a struggling attack. Despite recent batting collapses, Patel expressed confidence in the team's approach, emphasising a do-or-die mindset for the upcoming must-win game.

Shikhar Dhawan champions young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, emphasizing performance over age. Dhawan lauded the teenager's fearless batting against top bowlers, a rarity at his age. Sooryavanshi's impressive IPL 2026 stats, including 400 runs at a 238.10 strike rate and 37 sixes, back Dhawan's praise. However, Dhawan acknowledges the challenge of breaking into India's strong top order.

Shubman Gill's aggressive 43 off 18 balls, aided by early luck, propelled Gujarat Titans to a four-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Gill's powerplay blitz set the tone, despite a middle-order wobble, with Rahul Tewatia providing crucial late runs. RCB skipper Rajat Patidar acknowledged Gill's decisive impact, while praising his team's bowling effort in stretching the chase.

Gujarat Titans secured a commanding six-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, successfully chasing 156. Skipper Shubman Gill's aggressive 43 off 18 balls set the tone, with Jos Buttler and Rahul Tewatia providing crucial support. Earlier, RCB faltered after a strong start, collapsing to 155 due to excellent bowling from Arshad Khan and Jason Holder.

Gujarat Titans secured a four-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, avenging their earlier loss and strengthening their playoff contention. This win propelled GT to 10 points, narrowing the gap with the top teams, while RCB remained second despite the defeat. The league stage is intensifying as teams vie for playoff spots.

Virat Kohli's animated celebration after taking a sharp catch to dismiss Shubman Gill became a highlight of the RCB vs GT match. Kohli's intense reaction, including a ball-throw and a fired-up 'come on' to Gill, underscored the significance of ending the dangerous innings. He later smiled watching the replay, enjoying the moment.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar achieved a significant T20 milestone, becoming the second Indian bowler to take 350 wickets by dismissing Sai Sudharsan. He further claimed Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler, finishing with figures of 3 for 28 against GT. This performance propelled him to the top of the IPL 2026 Purple Cap standings.

Shubman Gill made history for Gujarat Titans. He became the first player to hit 100 sixes for the team. This happened during their IPL 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Earlier, Gujarat Titans bowlers restricted Bengaluru to 155. Gill then led the charge with a rapid 35 off 10 balls. He smashed 24 runs in one over against Josh Hazlewood.

A spectacular diving catch by Jason Holder to dismiss Rajat Patidar sparked controversy, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru players and coach Andy Flower questioning the umpire's decision. Despite RCB's protests that the ball may have touched the ground, the umpires upheld the dismissal. This crucial wicket shifted momentum in the match, even as the debate over the catch's legitimacy continued.

Virat Kohli achieved a special milestone in IPL 2026, smashing five consecutive fours off Kagiso Rabada in a single over. This rare feat places him alongside Chris Gayle and Shane Watson in Royal Challengers Bengaluru history. Despite Rabada striking back later, Kohli's explosive start set a strong tone for RCB.

Gujarat Titans won the toss and elected to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a crucial IPL 2026 encounter. Both teams opted for unchanged playing XIs, with GT skipper Shubman Gill emphasising the importance of their home fixtures. RCB captain Rajat Patidar expressed confidence in his team's batting prowess despite being put in to bat.

Shikhar Dhawan believes Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will adapt to reduced ODI frequency ahead of the 2027 World Cup due to their experience and professionalism. He noted that while less match exposure can disrupt rhythm, these seasoned players know how to manage it. Dhawan also highlighted that upcoming scheduling will provide sufficient ODI games for them to find form.

The Marylebone Cricket Club has defended the controversial 'obstructing the field' dismissal of KKR's Angkrish Raghuvanshi. They clarified that changing direction to run on the pitch, as Raghuvanshi did, constitutes a wilful act under the laws. The MCC emphasised that the batter's intent and actions, not whether they would have been out anyway, are key to such decisions.

Rohit Sharma celebrated his 39th birthday with heartfelt wishes from wife Ritika Sajdeh and a joyous Mumbai Indians dressing room. Tributes poured in from the cricket fraternity, acknowledging his stellar career and leadership. Sharma's legacy as a white-ball great and successful captain continues to grow, marked by significant ICC and IPL achievements.

Travis Head lauded opening partner Abhishek Sharma as one of the best spin-hitters he's ever seen after Sunrisers Hyderabad achieved a record chase against Mumbai Indians. The 'Travishek' duo's fearless approach laid the foundation for SRH's remarkable six-wicket victory, with Head highlighting their seamless understanding and Sharma's immense pressure on opposition bowlers.

Cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to amaze, with England cricketer Jos Buttler jokingly questioning if the 15-year-old prodigy is 'AI'. Sooryavanshi's witty 'God-gifted' reply to 'AI chip' theories has won hearts. Buttler lauded his fearless six-hitting against top bowlers, while Sooryavanshi rewrites IPL history, becoming the fastest to 400 runs.

Aakash Chopra expresses concern over Jacob Bethell's quiet start for RCB, noting his inability to convert starts despite opportunities. He also questions Romario Shepherd's unclear role and effectiveness. For Gujarat Titans, Chopra highlights their top-order dependency and struggles to score in the death overs, posing significant challenges for the upcoming match.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's historic IPL 2024 turnaround from 1-7 to playoffs is contrasted with Mumbai Indians' current IPL 2026 struggles. Languishing in ninth place with two wins from eight matches, the Hardik Pandya-led side faces an uphill battle.

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has been fined 25% of his match fee and received a demerit point for breaching IPL conduct rules. The incident, captured on live broadcast, involved Parag vaping in the dressing room during a match.

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag is under scrutiny after visuals emerged of him using a vape-like device in the dressing room during an IPL match. A women's group has demanded an inquiry, citing the ban on e-cigarettes in India and the potential negative influence on young viewers.

Mumbai Indians' IPL 2026 playoff hopes are in dire straits after a six-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad. Despite a stellar 123* from Ryan Rickelton, MI's bowling woes persist, leaving them with a daunting task of winning nearly all remaining matches. Their poor net run rate further complicates qualification, demanding dominant victories. With 2 wins in 8 games (4 points) and a NRR of -0.784, they are far from the pack.

Young Salil Arora's audacious 10-ball 30, featuring a stunning no-look six off Jasprit Bumrah, stole the show in a high-scoring IPL 2026 match. Despite a star-studded Sunrisers Hyderabad lineup, Arora's fearless finishing, including an unbeaten 30, sealed a dominant chase, repaying the franchise's faith in his potential. Despite modest returns initially, SRH continued to back Arora in the lower order. That faith was repaid last night.

Mumbai Indians suffered a crushing defeat despite a formidable 243/5, as Sunrisers Hyderabad successfully chased the target. Skipper Hardik Pandya acknowledged bowling struggles, with Jasprit Bumrah and others proving expensive. The loss leaves MI ninth in the standings, while SRH climbs to third. Pandya expressed commitment to finding solutions and apologized to loyal fans for the team's performance.

Shubham Dubey, a 31-year-old cricketer, seized his long-awaited opportunity with a match-winning unbeaten 31 off 12 balls. His explosive innings, coupled with Donovan Ferreira's support, secured a stunning six-wicket victory for Rajasthan Royals against Punjab Kings. Dubey's journey from humble beginnings to IPL success highlights his remarkable resilience and power-hitting prowess.

Former India pacer Zaheer Khan is thrilled by bowlers' resurgence in IPL-2026, citing low scores and defended totals. He lauded Bhuvneshwar Kumar's consistent RCB performance as a strong national comeback bid. Zaheer urged patience for Jasprit Bumrah's current form, believing he can recover. He also expressed excitement for promising young talents Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav, highlighting their potential.

The Mumbai Indians left fans scratching their heads by employing Shardul Thakur as an Impact Sub while he never got the chance to bowl a single ball. This curious tactic came after a dismal display against Sunrisers Hyderabad, where Thakur's experience could have potentially turned the tides. On a day when every MI bowler went at an economy of over 10, it was baffling to see the bowler with over 100 IPL wickets not getting a bowl.

Gujarat Titans face Royal Challengers Bengaluru again, seeking solutions to their middle-order struggles and bowling inconsistencies. Despite a strong top order, GT's campaign shows imbalance, while RCB arrives with momentum and a flexible batting lineup. The Titans' bowling after the Powerplay remains a key concern.