The Times of India

The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has commenced its assessment tests for upcoming international events, including the CWG and Asian Games, despite objections from SAI. The BFI insists on the inclusion of head coaches in the selection panel, deeming it crucial for informed, performance-based decisions. Athletes are undergoing rigorous strength and conditioning tests to gauge their readiness for the competition.

Punjab Kings' strong start is faltering with three consecutive losses, raising concerns about their playoff security. Sloppy fielding and a top-order batting collapse against Sunrisers Hyderabad highlighted recent struggles. While mathematically still in a good position, the team needs to quickly address these issues to avoid entering the playoffs with a losing momentum. Punjab remain in control of qualification mathematically. But unless they quickly clean up the details, they risk entering the

Lucknow Super Giants are struggling at the bottom of the IPL table, facing a six-match losing streak and needing to salvage pride. In contrast, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are performing strongly, sitting second with a consistent blend of batting and bowling. The match is expected to be a tactical battle on a slow Lucknow pitch.

Paris Saint-Germain secured their second consecutive Champions League final appearance with a 1-1 draw against Bayern Munich, winning 6-5 on aggregate. Ousmane Dembl opened the scoring early, and despite Bayern's pressure and a late Harry Kane equalizer, PSG's defensive resilience saw them through to face Arsenal in Budapest.

With BCCI getting strict on keeping franchises away from pitch preparation, the endeavour is to produce uniform flat pitches conducive to high scores across venues.

Punjab Kings suffered a costly fielding collapse against Sunrisers Hyderabad, dropping three catches and missing a stumping. These errors allowed Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen to score heavily, setting up a formidable total. Ravichandran Ashwin attributed the sloppiness to tricky outfield conditions and unexpected bounce at the Hyderabad stadium, impacting the team's performance.

Former India and Mumbai fast bowler Salil Ankola is undergoing treatment for severe depression at a rehab centre near Pune. His wife, Ria Ankola, confirmed he was admitted after struggling to cope with his mother's passing in October 2024. The family is optimistic about his recovery, highlighting his fighter spirit and the support he has received from the cricket fraternity.

Shashank Singh's fielding struggles continued as Punjab Kings suffered a 33-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Singh dropped a crucial catch of Heinrich Klaasen, who went on to score 69, significantly impacting the match. This latest lapse adds to a growing concern for PBKS, with Singh having dropped five catches in his last three games.

Young Australian Cooper Connolly achieved IPL history with a stunning unbeaten 107 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, becoming the youngest overseas batter to score a century. Despite his remarkable knock, Punjab Kings fell short by 33 runs. Connolly's century, his first in the IPL, showcased a brilliant lone-hand effort in a high-scoring chase.

Sunrisers Hyderabad surged to the IPL 2026 summit with a commanding win, now boasting 14 points and a healthy net run rate. Their batting and bowling units are peaking, with recent dominant victories showcasing renewed balance. One more win should secure their playoff spot, with two victories potentially eyeing a top-two finish. SRH no longer look like a side trying to survive the playoff race. Right now, they look like one building toward a genuine title challenge.

Abhishek Sharma's explosive 35 off 13 balls, including four sixes, propelled Sunrisers Hyderabad to a strong start against Punjab Kings. His quickfire cameo saw him reach a personal milestone of 300 T20 sixes in India. Despite fielding lapses, SRH posted a formidable 235/4, with significant contributions from Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan.

Sunrisers Hyderabad secured a historic 33-run victory over Punjab Kings in Hyderabad, marking their ninth consecutive win against PBKS at the venue. Heinrich Klaasen's 69 and Ishan Kishan's 55 powered SRH to 235/4. Despite Cooper Connolly's maiden IPL century (107*), PBKS fell short, allowing SRH to top the IPL 2026 table.

Former England captain Alastair Cook defended his advice to Jacob Bethell regarding IPL opportunities, emphasizing the need for game time over just learning from top players. Cook acknowledged Bethell has since played more, but reiterated that public criticism of the IPL is unlikely due to financial incentives and career implications, suggesting both viewpoints can be valid.

Pakistan Cricket Board is under financial strain. It is seeking billions in unpaid dues from various entities. This includes Pakistan Super League franchises and broadcast partners. Some franchises have cleared their dues but are awaiting their revenue share. A major rights holder owes a significant amount. This situation is impacting the board's financial records and operations.

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is electrifying the IPL 2026 with his explosive batting, amassing 404 runs and a remarkable 37 sixes. Experts like Michael Vaughan are hailing him as potentially the world's best six-hitter, drawing comparisons to Chris Gayle. His rapid ascent has sparked discussions about his value and future international prospects, with Vaughan predicting an imminent India call-up.

Yuzvendra Chahal endured a frustrating night as Punjab Kings dropped multiple catches off his bowling during the loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad. SRH batters Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan capitalised on the missed chances to help post 235 runs. Chahal now has six dropped catches off his bowling this IPL season, the most for any bowler in IPL 2026.

Sunrisers Hyderabad ascended to the IPL 2026 summit after a commanding victory over Punjab Kings. Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan's explosive batting, aided by dropped catches, propelled SRH to 235/4. Despite Cooper Connolly's brilliant unbeaten century, PBKS faltered, managing 202/7. Captain Shreyas Iyer lamented costly fielding errors as the decisive factor in their third consecutive loss.

Heinrich Klaasen has seized the Orange Cap lead with a stellar 69, propelling Sunrisers Hyderabad to the top. His consistent performance, averaging over 54, is remarkable given his batting position. Abhishek Sharma follows closely, showcasing explosive batting at the top. KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Sanju Samson also feature prominently in the run-scoring charts, highlighting a competitive season.

Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Punjab Kings by 33 runs to move to the top of the IPL table after posting 235/4. Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan starred with the bat, while Punjabs poor fielding and dropped catches proved costly. Cooper Connollys unbeaten century was not enough as PBKS slumped to their third straight loss and ninth consecutive defeat in Hyderabad.

Sunrisers Hyderabad surged to the top of the IPL 2026 table with a dominant win over Punjab Kings. Riding on strong batting performances, SRH posted a massive total, securing a crucial victory. This result reshaped the standings, with Punjab slipping to second and several teams vying for playoff spots.

Cricketing circles mourn the loss of Amanpreet Singh Gill, a former Punjab fast bowler and Kings XI Punjab player. He passed away at 36. Yuvraj Singh remembered him as a quiet, hardworking cricketer. Gill also served on Punjab's senior selection committee. His contributions to the game and his presence are deeply missed. The cause of death remains undisclosed.

The Wrestling Federation of India announced new eligibility rules for the 2026 Asian Games trials, making Vinesh Phogat ineligible as only recent national and federation medal winners can participate. The returning wrestler is also facing an ITA warning for missing a doping test in December 2025. It counts as her first whereabouts failure but is not a doping violation.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is likely to join the squad in Raipur on Thursday for their Sunday fixture against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The all-rounder didn't travel with the first batch of players on Wednesday and will link up with the squad on Thursday.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's batting prowess against Punjab Kings reached new heights with another 200-plus total, marking their eighth such score in this fixture. This achievement equals the IPL record for most 200-plus totals against a single opponent. The innings featured explosive hitting from key players and highlighted Hyderabad's sustained batting dominance in this matchup.

World champion D Gukesh showed rare emotion after defeating future title challenger Javokhir Sindarov at the Grand Chess Tour in Poland. Playing with the black pieces, Gukesh outplayed the Uzbek grandmaster in 52 moves and celebrated with a fist pump after the win. The victory was seen as a strong statement ahead of their World Championship clash later this year.

Punjab Kings poor fielding left Yuzvendra Chahal frustrated during their clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad as dropped catches denied him crucial wickets. Shashank Singh dropped Heinrich Klaasen, while Lockie Ferguson spilled Ishan Kishan, both off Chahals bowling. PBKS have now dropped six catches off Chahal this season, the most for any bowler in IPL 2026, hurting Punjab badly on a batting-friendly Hyderabad pitch.

Ravichandran Ashwin playfully addressed fan speculation about a rift with Rohit Sharma after missing the LSG vs MI IPL 2026 clash. He clarified his absence was due to prior commentary commitments and travel, not any personal issue. Ashwin lauded Rohit's spectacular 84-run innings, despite the match's limited impact on both teams' playoff hopes.

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is making waves in IPL 2026. His incredible batting skills have drawn attention. A social activist has raised concerns about child exploitation. He plans legal action against Rajasthan Royals. The activist believes the young player is a victim of child labor. Sooryavanshi's performances have been historic. He is the youngest T20 centurion.

Punjab Kings won the toss and chose to field against Sunrisers Hyderabad in a crucial IPL 2026 encounter. Both teams, aiming to recover from recent losses, boast explosive batting lineups. PBKS, currently leading the table, and SRH, close behind, are vying for playoff advantage in this high-stakes clash. Shreyas Iyer confirmed one change, bringing in Shashank Singh.

Prince Yadavs rise from playing tennis-ball cricket in Delhis Dariyapur Khurd to becoming an exciting IPL fast bowler reflects determination and resilience. Inspired by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the LSG pacer dreams of winning the 2027 World Cup alongside them. Despite setbacks, including a two-year ban, Prince rebuilt his career with guidance from mentors like Mohammed Shami and Zaheer Khan.

Sanju Samson played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 87 runs. He led Chennai Super Kings to a comfortable eight-wicket victory against Delhi Capitals. Samson's composed innings, supported by Kartik Sharma, chased down the target with ease. This crucial win keeps CSK in contention for the IPL 2026 playoffs. Experts praised Samson's form and leadership.

Rishabh Pant gifted Yuvraj Singh a golf club and heartfelt note to thank him for mentoring him ahead of IPL 2026 after a difficult phase in his career. Sharing the gesture online, Yuvraj jokingly teased Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma and other mentees, saying, Sharam karo... Rishabh Pant se kuch seekho. Meanwhile, Pant continues to struggle for form in IPL 2026.

Sports Ministry has reaffirmed its policy of a blanket ban on bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan, with no Indian teams participating in Pakistan and vice-versa. However, exemptions remain for multi-nation events like the Olympics and Asian Games. The ministry also aims to simplify visa processes to position India as a preferred international sports hosting destination.

Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has lost the rights to host the IPL 2026 final to Ahmedabad, much to the Karnataka Cricket Association's disappointment. Despite claiming full preparedness and a strong operational record, the KSCA was informed of the shift due to unspecified 'operational and logistical considerations' by the BCCI, sparking debate.

Alastair Cook reignited his debate with Kevin Pietersen over Jacob Bethell's IPL stint. Cook believes the young batter needs game time in county cricket over sitting on the bench in India. Pietersen countered, asserting Cook lacks understanding of the IPL's developmental benefits. Cook reiterated his stance, emphasizing playing matches over observation, despite the IPL's financial allure.

Millions in Asia, including India, China, and Thailand, face uncertainty over watching the FIFA World Cup 2026 due to delayed broadcast rights. Unfavorable late-night match timings and high costs are stalling deals, potentially impacting viewership. Experts, however, believe agreements will be reached, ensuring widespread access to the global football spectacle.

The IPL 2026 final has been moved from Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium to Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium due to operational and logistical issues with the local association. This marks Ahmedabad's fourth final in five seasons. Previously, Ahmedabad hosted in 2022 and 2025, with scheduling and weather concerns influencing those decisions as well.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's Nitish Kumar Reddy is set to return for their crucial IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings, according to head coach Daniel Vettori. Reddy's availability is seen as vital for SRH's balance, bolstering both their batting and bowling ahead of the high-stakes encounter as the playoff race tightens.

Sanjay Manjrekar urges Sanju Samson to emulate Virat Kohli's fitness dedication for sustained success. Despite Samson's stellar IPL 2026 season with two centuries and over 400 runs for CSK, Manjrekar believes the 31-year-old wicketkeeper-batter can enhance his physical conditioning. He highlighted Kohli's longevity, attributing it to prioritizing fitness to complement his skills and prevent physical limitations.

Hemang Badani admits perform or perish as DC face must-win situation

Akeal Hosein stresses discipline over wickets

IPL 2026's playoff race is heating up, with home advantage proving crucial. Top teams like Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are leveraging their home grounds to secure vital points. Meanwhile, teams in the bottom half are struggling significantly at home, making their playoff aspirations increasingly difficult as the league stage concludes.

The 2026 Indian Premier League final is scheduled for May 31 at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, deviating from the tradition of hosting it at the reigning champions' home ground. Playoffs are slated for May 26, 27, and 29, with matches to be held in Mullanpur and Dharamsala.

Sanju Samson has silenced early critics with a stellar IPL 2026 campaign for Chennai Super Kings, earning praise from Aaron Finch. After a rocky start, the star batter has delivered crucial performances, including match-winning innings and crossing 5,000 IPL runs, proving his superstar status for CSK.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat received a formal warning from the International Testing Agency for a missed doping test in December 2025. This marks her first whereabouts failure within a year. Despite her explanation citing legislative duties and personal commitments, the ITA deemed it insufficient. The warning won't impact her upcoming Gonda tournament return.

Manipur judoka Inunganbi Takhellambam, overcoming arduous journeys and early setbacks, achieved a historic bronze at the Asian Judo Championships. This marks a significant milestone after years of dedication, with her sights now set on the Commonwealth and Asian Games. Her journey highlights resilience and the pursuit of excellence in Indian sports.

Ryan Rickelton has emerged as Mumbai Indians' standout performer in IPL 2026, leading the team in runs with an impressive strike rate. His explosive batting, including multiple century partnerships with Rohit Sharma, has been crucial to MI's successful chases. Rickelton credits his chemistry with Sharma and the Wankhede pitch for his dream run.

Sanju Samson's unbeaten 87 against Delhi Capitals propelled him into an elite club with Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. His stellar performance, including two 100-plus partnerships against DC this season, secured a crucial win for Chennai Super Kings, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Sanju Samson's unbeaten 87 steered Chennai Super Kings to a crucial victory over Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. Prioritising the team's win over a personal century, Samson displayed remarkable composure and calculated aggression. His mature approach earned praise from cricket legends, highlighting his significant impact on CSK's playoff aspirations this season.

Ruturaj Gaikwad lauded Sanju Samson's match-winning 87* against Delhi Capitals, calling him the team's backbone. Samson's unbeaten knock, alongside Kartik Sharma's support, secured an eight-wicket win for CSK, keeping their playoff hopes alive. This victory propelled CSK to fifth place in the IPL 2026 standings.