The Times of India

Rohit Sharma dropped a crucial catch off Angkrish Raghuvanshi's bat during the Mumbai Indians vs. Kolkata Knight Riders IPL 2026 clash. The costly miss allowed Raghuvanshi to continue his impressive innings, contributing significantly to KKR's formidable total of 220. This fielding lapse, among others, highlighted MI's struggles as KKR dominated the match.

Sunil Narine has set a new IPL record. He is now the overseas player with the most appearances in the tournament's history. Narine achieved this milestone in his 190th match for Kolkata Knight Riders. He surpassed Kieron Pollard's previous record. Narine has been a consistent performer for KKR since his debut in 2012.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and chose to bowl against Kolkata Knight Riders at Wankhede Stadium, citing a greener pitch. Suryakumar Yadav is absent from the starting XI, expected as an Impact Player. MI aims to break their opening match losing streak since 2012, with debut caps for Ghazanfar and Rutherford.

Chennai Super Kings face significant injury blows ahead of IPL 2026, with Dewald Brevis sidelined for the initial matches due to a side strain. This adds to the absence of MS Dhoni and Nathan Ellis, impacting the team's middle order and bowling attack. CSK will aim to overcome these setbacks as they begin their campaign against Rajasthan Royals.

The AIFF Executive Committee has referred three long-term commercial rights bids for club competitions to KPMG for audit. This decision follows ISL clubs' request to avoid a binding decision on the 15+5 rights cycle. Clubs will also meet with bidders to address queries, ensuring transparency before the AIFF General Body considers the matter.

England Test captain Ben Stokes' return to cricket is delayed due to a serious facial injury sustained in February. Recovering from a fractured cheekbone, Stokes will miss Durham's opening County Championship match. Head coach Ryan Campbell confirmed the injury's severity and Stokes' determination to regain fitness after a challenging Ashes campaign and personal difficulties.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said Rohit has often been comfortable against KKR and expects that trend to continue at the Wankhede Stadium.

Delhi Capitals unveil new jersey ahead of IPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru began their Indian Premier League 2026 season with a strong victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli's partnership was key in chasing a 202-run target. Padikkal highlighted Kohli's guidance and the support from coaches. This win marks a significant start for the defending champions.

Manish Pandey, a constant in the IPL since 2008, reflects on his 19-year journey, calling it a 'flash'. He's set for IPL 2026 with KKR, cherishing his maiden century and the tournament's evolution. Pandey highlights the IPL's role in talent development and his own career, citing a match-winning knock in the 2014 final as pivotal.

Harbhajan Singh went viral after hitting back at a troll who called him, Virender Sehwag, and Aakash Chopra three clowns during an IPL broadcast. He replied, Inme se ek ko papa chun le, earning praise for his witty comeback. The exchange sparked debate on trolling, highlighting how quickly social media reactions can escalate during major cricket events.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Jammu and Kashmirs first Ranji Trophy win as a proud moment after nearly 70 years. In Mann Ki Baat, he praised the teams hard work, captain Paras Dogras leadership, and Aaqib Nabis 60 wickets. Modi said the victory has inspired the region and boosted sports enthusiasm, adding that Jammu and Kashmir is emerging as a sporting hub and expressing hope for continued success.

Virat Kohlis unbeaten 69 powered RCB to a successful chase, showing his top form after a T20 break. Dale Steyn praised his improved six-hitting and evolving mindset. Kohlis aggressive approach has grown over time. Devdutt Padikkal said Kohlis presence eased pressure, while also crediting coaches Andy Flower and Dinesh Karthik for his development.

Ravichandran Ashwin lauded Virat Kohli's izarre energy levels at his age, stating the Indian stalwart continues to walk the talk after stepping away from Tests and T20Is. Kohli's unbeaten 69 in the IPL 2026 opener against SRH showcased his enduring hunger and intensity between the wickets, setting a benchmark for the game.

Mumbai Indians are set to become the first franchise team to play 300 T20 matches when they face Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL 2026 opener. This historic milestone underscores their enduring presence and success in the shortest format of the game. The team aims to mark this occasion by ending their five-year title drought.

Mumbai Indians face Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL 2026 opener at Wankhede. MI aim to end their title drought, while KKR seek a comeback. Key players include Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Mitchell Santner for MI, alongside Sunil Narine and Blessing Muzarabani for KKR, who could play decisive roles in this high-stakes clash.

Nihal Sarin Exclusive: Candidates 2026 Predictions, Anish Giri's 'Drawish' Tag, and More #Chess

England all-rounder Sam Curran has revealed his withdrawal from IPL 2026 was due to a groin injury that had been worsening. He admitted the issue, carried through the T20 World Cup, required a ough decision after scans confirmed significant damage. Curran is now focused on rehabilitation in England, with his return timeline uncertain.

Sunil Gavaskar has urged the BCCI to implement tougher penalties for last-minute IPL withdrawals, citing Ben Duckett's exit as evidence the current two-year ban is ineffective. Duckett's decision to prioritize England commitments, despite being picked by Delhi Capitals, has disrupted team planning and reignited calls for greater player accountability in the league.

Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach Daniel Vettori described his team's bowling effort in their IPL 2026 opener as one of our poorer performances after a six-wicket loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Despite posting 201/9, SRH struggled to contain RCB's batting, with Vettori citing missed lengths and a lack of discipline as key issues.

Virat Kohli starred with an unbeaten 69, guiding Bengaluru to a record chase of 202 against Hyderabad. Ambati Rayudu said hes far from a finished product and should return to Tests. Hyderabad posted 201/9, but Kohli, with Padikkal and Patidar, sealed the fastest 200+ IPL chase while crossing 4000 runs in chases and surpassing Shoaib Malik.

Virat Kohli has etched his name in T20 history, becoming the Asian batter with the most runs, surpassing Shoaib Malik. Achieving this feat in the IPL opener, Kohli's unbeaten 69 guided RCB to victory. He attributed his sustained performance to careful workload management and a commitment to team success, highlighting his enduring impact on the game.

Virat Kohli made history by becoming the first player to score 4000+ IPL runs in chases and surpassed Shoaib Malik in T20 runs. Sunrisers Hyderabad posted 201/9, powered by Ishan Kishans 80. In reply, Kohlis 69*, along with Devdutt Padikkal and Rajat Patidar, helped Bengaluru chase 202 in 15.4 oversthe fastest 200+ chase.

Two years after retiring from T20Is, Virat Kohli continues to shine, scoring an unbeaten 69 to guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a big win over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Mohammad Kaif praised his form. Kohli also broke records, becoming the first to 4000 IPL chase runs, as RCB sealed a dominant victory.

MS Dhoni's 'final' IPL season faces an early setback with a calf strain, potentially sidelining him for three weeks and at least six matches. This injury forces CSK to rely on a new leadership group and opens opportunities for younger players in the lower order, while Sanju Samson will handle wicket-keeping duties.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru launched their IPL 2026 title defence with a commanding six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Virat Kohli's unbeaten 69 was the cornerstone of the chase, with skipper Rajat Patidar hailing him as the team's backbone. Debutant Jacob Duffy's early wickets also proved crucial in securing the win.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru achieved the IPL's fastest 200-plus chase, defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad by six wickets. Chasing 202, RCB reached the target in just 15.4 overs, powered by a rapid 101-run partnership between Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal. Padikkal's explosive 61 off 26 balls set the tone for the record-breaking victory.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru commenced IPL 2026 with a dominant six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Virat Kohli anchored the chase with an unbeaten 69, supported by Devdutt Padikkal's explosive 61, as RCB comfortably surpassed 201 with 26 balls to spare. The focus now shifts to Mumbai for the clash between MI and KKR.

Virat Kohli's unbeaten 69 powered Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2026 opener. Kohli's stellar performance, coupled with a romantic gesture towards wife Anushka Sharma, captivated fans. Devdutt Padikkal's quickfire 61 also proved crucial in the successful chase, while Ishan Kishan's 80 wasn't enough for SRH.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a dominant win over Sunrisers Hyderabad, but a controversial catch by Phil Salt, which led to Heinrich Klaasen's dismissal, sparked debate. Despite the umpire's decision, replays suggested Salt might have touched the boundary sponge. Virat Kohli's unbeaten 69 then powered RCB's successful chase of 202.

Virat Kohli etched his name in IPL history, playing his 19th consecutive season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He anchored RCB's chase with an unbeaten 69, guiding them to a six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Devdutt Padikkal's explosive 61 set the stage for the dominant win, while Ishan Kishan's 80 was the highlight for SRH.

Kohli then went on to register two milestones during the game between defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. He became the first batter in IPL history to cross 4000 runs in run chases.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru began their IPL 2026 season with a strong six-wicket win against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Virat Kohli led the chase with an unbeaten 69. Devdutt Padikkal also played a crucial role with a quickfire 61. The team paid tribute to fans lost last year. This victory sets a positive tone for RCB's campaign.

Chasing 202, RCB reached 203 for 4 in 15.4 overs. Padikkal scored 61 off 26 balls, while Kohli remained unbeaten on 69 from 38 deliveries. The pair added 101 runs for the second wicket in just 45 balls after the early dismissal of Phil Salt.

Virat Kohli's dropped catch in the IPL opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad was a moment of drama, but he later redeemed himself by dismissing the same batter. Ishan Kishan's explosive 80 powered SRH to 201/9, despite a strong bowling performance from RCB's Jacob Duffy. The match saw several crucial wickets fall, with Kishan's innings being a highlight.

Kolkata Knight Riders assistant coach Shane Watson expressed confidence that Cameron Green will not be burdened by his Rs 25.20 crore price tag. Watson highlighted Green's free-spirited approach and past IPL success, suggesting it will enable him to perform at his best. The team is also managing injuries and awaiting Matheesha Pathirana's arrival.

Mumbai Indians welcome back star pacer Jasprit Bumrah for their IPL 2026 opener against KKR. However, key overseas players Mitchell Santner and Will Jacks are on an extended break. KKR's Shane Watson hopes to exploit MI's notorious slow start to the season, while MI looks for Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma to hit form.

ISL commercial rights: AIFF get two different bids

Phil Salt's spectacular one-handed catch ended Ishan Kishan's blistering 80-run knock, a pivotal moment in the IPL 2026 opener. Despite Kishan's brilliance, which anchored Sunrisers Hyderabad's innings, Salt's fielding heroics, including another debated boundary catch, shifted momentum. Hyderabad ultimately posted 201/9, a total that felt short after Salt's impactful contributions.

Cricket returned to Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium with a revamped fan experience, though a poignant tribute marked the anniversary of a past tragedy. While many praised smoother entry and improved security, some faced minor inconveniences with new protocols. Over 2,000 personnel ensured crowd management, leading to less congestion. A minute's silence honored victims before play commenced.

Uttar Pradesh pacer Abhinandan Singh made his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Sunrisers Hyderabad, a remarkable rise from tennis-ball cricket just four years ago. His impressive intra-squad performances, including dismissing Virat Kohli, secured his spot amidst RCB's bowling challenges. This debut marks a significant moment for the young talent.

Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to make history as the first Indian-capped player in Major League Cricket, joining the San Francisco Unicorns for the 2026 season. Ashwin, a celebrated international cricketer, expressed his excitement about the league's growth and his commitment to helping the Unicorns secure a championship.

As the 2026 Candidates tournament approaches, Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri faces the lingering King of Draws stereotype. Indian Grandmaster Nihal Sarin refutes this, highlighting Giri's fighting spirit and recent FIDE Grand Swiss victory as proof of his winning intent. Sarin also offers his predictions for the volatile Open and Women's Candidates fields.

Genius Sports and FanCode have submitted bids for Indian Super League (ISL) and Federation Cup commercial rights, with Genius Sports offering a significantly higher amount. While the All India Football Federation (AIFF) favours Genius Sports' larger upfront offer, ISL clubs prefer FanCode's more sustainable financial structure, leading to a divergence in opinions on the long-term deal.

Mitchell Starc clarifies his absence from early Indian Premier League 2026 games. An elbow injury delayed his arrival for Delhi Capitals. Starc stated the injury extent became clear after the Australian summer. He is rehabbing and managing the issue. Starc reaffirms his commitment to Delhi Capitals and apologizes for the disruption.

Pakistan cricketer Naseem Shah faces a show-cause notice from the PCB for a social media post allegedly criticizing Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The tweet, quickly deleted with a hacking claim, was seen as a jab at her security escort during the PSL opener.

Jos Buttler credits the Indian Premier League as the most significant influence on his career, highlighting invaluable lessons learned from figures like Rahul Dravid and Matthew Hayden. Despite a recent World Cup dip, Buttler approaches the IPL with consistent focus, aiming to contribute to Gujarat Titans' success. He also praised uncapped Indian pacer Ashok Sharma's potential.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will begin their IPL 2026 title defense against Sunrisers Hyderabad, wearing black armbands to honor eleven fans who tragically died in a stampede following last year's victory. Coach Andy Flower stated that Virat Kohli is in excellent form and peak of his powers for the upcoming season.