The Times of India

Ian Nepomniachtchi criticised reigning world champion D Gukesh for inconsistent performances, saying nearly every top GM currently has a strong chance against him. Nepomniachtchi also backed Javokhir Sindarov as favourite for their 2026 World Championship clash, citing his strong form and higher rating. Gukesh, meanwhile, has taken a break from classical chess to prepare for his title defence.

IPL 2026 playoffs are set to be exciting. Gujarat Titans hold a statistical edge to win the title. Royal Challengers Bengaluru finished first but history favors second-placed teams. Sunrisers Hyderabad face a tough Eliminator route. The final stages promise intense competition for the coveted IPL trophy.

Song Yadong has openly spoken about his mission to become Chinas first male UFC champion, a goal that sits alongside Zhang Weilis success as part of a larger ambition for Chinese MMA. Headlining UFC Fight Night in Macau on May 30 against Deiveson Figueiredo represents both a homecoming and an audition.

Zee Entertainment is making a significant comeback into sports broadcasting, planning to launch seven new channels under the 'Unite8 Sports' brand. This strategic move coincides with the ongoing negotiations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup broadcast rights in India, a major event where pricing disagreements have stalled a deal.

Aravindh Chithambaram recently became the first Indian to qualify for the 2026 Esports Chess World Cup after winning at DreamHack Atlanta. Raised by his mother and grandparents after losing his father at age three, Aravindh discovered chess through his grandfather. With strong family support and guidance from coach RB Ramesh, he steadily rose through the ranks to become a national champion and elite player.

Daniel Vettori reflects on SRHs strong IPL 2026 campaign after RCB clash

Andy Flower explains how RCB conquered the IPL 2026 league stage

Akash Maharaj Singhs viral chit celebration became one of IPL 2026s most debated moments, drawing criticism, trolling and even mockery from fellow cricketers. But behind the celebration was years of frustration, waiting and perseverance across four IPL franchises. From taking 10 wickets in an innings as a teenager to finally earning his chance at LSG, this is the emotional story behind Akashs moment in the spotlight.

CSK IPL 2026 season analysis: How it all fell apart, AGAIN!

Indian Super League clubs have urged the AIFF to delay a decision on commercial rights, seeking collaborative engagement. They oppose a long-term deal with Genius Sports, proposing a club-led model instead. Clubs cite a lack of financial projections and safeguards, with some facing potential shutdowns. The AIFF General Body will discuss proposals today.

Tempers flared between Virat Kohli and Travis Head during an IPL 2026 match, escalating into a post-match handshake snub. After a verbal exchange on the field, Kohli notably ignored Head's outstretched hand during the customary greetings, despite warmly acknowledging other SRH players.

Michael Vaughan has advised Jacob Bethell to return to England from the IPL due to injury concerns and limited playing time with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Vaughan believes Bethell should prioritize his recovery and England's upcoming Test series against New Zealand, especially with a national training camp starting soon.

Former tennis star Sania Mirza believes Jannik Sinner is the clear favourite for the mens singles title at the French Open, especially with Carlos Alcaraz out of contention. In the womens draw, she called the competition very open and backed Mirra Andreeva as a potential surprise champion. Mirza also said Novak Djokovic remains a dangerous contender despite his age and recent Grand Slam struggles.

Yashasvi Jaiswals omission from Indias ODI squad for the Afghanistan series has slipped under the radar. Despite scoring an unbeaten century in his last ODI appearance and playing a key role in reshaping Indias aggressive T20 batting approach after the 2022 T20 World Cup, the 24-year-old has quietly gone out of contention in both formats. With no spot in the India A squad either, Jaiswal finds himself in an unusual limbo despite being regarded as an all-format player and one of Indias brightest

Celebrations Continue For East Bengal A Day After Winning The ISL

Joe Root expressed immense admiration for Sachin Tendulkar's record Test run tally, acknowledging the impossibility of ignoring conversations about surpassing it. Despite nearing the milestone, Root prioritizes continuous batting improvement over statistical achievements, aiming to play instinctively in matches.

Uttarakhands Deepak Bhatt won the mens 10,000m race at the National Senior Athletics Federation Competition in Ranchi with a personal-best time of 29:42.93. Karnatakas Shivaji Parashuram collapsed from dehydration after finishing second and was later disqualified for stepping outside track limits. Harsh weather conditions saw eight athletes fail to finish. In the womens event, Maharashtras Ravina Gayakwad claimed gold with a timing of 35:30.98.

Kerala-born footballer Jobby Justin played a key role in Diamond Harbour FCs promotion to the Indian Super League after winning the IFL title. The club, formed in 2020, impressed under coach Kibu Vicunas attacking style. Justin, now captain, praised the teams never-say-die spirit after a dramatic season. After years in Kolkata football, he now calls the city his home away from home.

The IPL 2026 playoff race intensifies with four teams vying for the final spot. Sunrisers Hyderabad secured a win but missed a top-two finish. Rajasthan Royals are frontrunners, needing a win against Mumbai Indians. Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals face uphill battles, requiring specific results and strong Net Run Rates to qualify.

Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer Sakib Hussain called Virat Kohlis wicket a dream moment after SRHs 55-run win over RCB in IPL 2026, saying, Maza toh aya. The young Bihar bowler now has 15 wickets in 10 matches. SRH posted 255/4 through strong knocks from Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen. Despite the loss, RCB still finished top of the league table.

Virat Kohli and Travis Head were involved in a heated exchange during RCBs chase against SRH in IPL 2026. Kohli later ignored Heads handshake after the match, sparking attention. SRH posted 255/4 with strong knocks from Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen, winning by 55 runs. Despite the defeat, RCB finished top of the league table after crossing the required score mark.

Krishnamachari Srikkanth slammed Chennai Super Kings management for misleading fans about MS Dhoni's fitness throughout IPL 2026. He accused the franchise of creating false hope with repeated suggestions of Dhoni's imminent return, despite him missing the entire season due to injury. Srikkanth urged for transparency, stating fans were prepared for the Dhoni era's end.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a 15-year-old Indian cricketer, is captivating global audiences with his IPL 2026 performances. Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes Sooryavanshi's age is the only barrier to his India debut. Vaughan considers him the season's best opener, urging his inclusion in the T20I squad. Sooryavanshi's exceptional batting has made him a standout player.

Rajat Patidar has etched his name in IPL history, surpassing Chris Gayle for the third-fastest batter to 100 sixes. Achieving this milestone in just 933 deliveries, Patidar showcased his power-hitting prowess during a challenging chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad. His impactful innings, including a crucial six that secured RCB's top-two finish, highlights his growing importance for the team.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's explosive batting secured a 55-run victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Despite the loss, RCB clinched the top spot in the league table, powered by stellar performances from Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Heinrich Klaasen. RCB's chase, though falling short of the target, successfully achieved their crucial goal of crossing 166 runs to secure a top-two playoff finish.

Top tennis players at the French Open are limiting Media Day engagements to protest Grand Slam revenue distribution. Stars like Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner are demanding a higher share of tournament revenue, improved benefits, and a greater say in the sport's decisions. This united stand aims to secure better financial security and influence for players.

Virat Kohli has etched his name in T20 cricket history, now holding the record for the most 50-plus partnerships. This latest milestone was achieved during the IPL 2026 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he and Venkatesh Iyer forged another significant opening stand. Kohli's remarkable consistency continues to set new benchmarks in the sport.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar hit an unwanted IPL record, conceding 50+ runs for the ninth time. Sunrisers Hyderabad's explosive batting, led by Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, dismantled Royal Challengers Bengaluru's bowling attack on a flat pitch. SRH posted a massive 255/4, highlighting their batting prowess and exposing RCB's bowling weaknesses ahead of the playoffs.

Indian Super League clubs have threatened to review their commitment beyond this season due to a lack of structural and commercial clarity. Thirteen clubs had proposed an alternative model, emphasising the need for a financially sustainable league and urging the AIFF to collaborate on a framework for all stakeholders.

Sunrisers Hyderabad continued their explosive IPL 2026 run, smashing 255 for 4 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This marked their ninth 200-plus total this season, a new record. Powered by Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Heinrich Klaasen's blistering knocks, SRH solidified their status as IPL's most destructive batting unit, owning six 250-plus scores in history.

Heinrich Klaasen achieved a significant milestone, becoming the fifth Sunrisers Hyderabad player to score 2000 IPL runs for the franchise. He also equaled the record for most 50+ scores at No. 4 or lower in a single IPL season. Klaasen's explosive 51, alongside contributions from Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma, powered SRH to a massive 255/4 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Ishan Kishan continued his dominance against Royal Challengers Bengaluru with a 79, marking his fourth consecutive 50-plus score against them. Sunrisers Hyderabad's batting prowess was further evident with fifties from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, leading to a massive total and a record-breaking season for 200+ scores.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's Abhishek Sharma, Heinrich Klaasen, and Ishan Kishan have etched their names in IPL history, becoming the second trio to score over 500 runs each in a season. This remarkable batting feat fuels SRH's strong IPL 2026 campaign as they aim for a top-two finish.

Rasikh Salam Dar's fiery yorker dismantled Travis Head's stumps, igniting a passionate celebration from the young pacer and a pumped-up Virat Kohli. Head's aggressive 26 off 16 balls ended abruptly, giving RCB a crucial breakthrough. Defending champions RCB, already playoff-bound in IPL 2026, faced Sunrisers Hyderabad in a key clash.

Replays showed the ball striking the glove rather than the pads.

Ravichandran Ashwin highlights the intense competition for India's T20I squad, praising Shubman Gill's IPL form but acknowledging emerging talents like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Priyansh Arya. He notes the difficulty selectors face with a deep talent pool, including established players like Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, making selection a significant challenge.

Kolkata Knight Riders have been dealt a significant blow as Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been ruled out of IPL 2026. The star wicketkeeper-batter sustained a concussion and a fractured finger on his left hand during a match against Mumbai Indians. Raghuvanshi was a key performer for KKR this season.

All-rounder Vijay Shankar has announced his retirement from all Indian domestic cricket and the IPL, concluding a career that saw him represent India in ODIs and T20Is, including the 2019 World Cup. Shankar, who played 12 ODIs and 9 T20Is, expressed gratitude for his journey and plans to explore new opportunities in cricket.

Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins won the toss and chose to bat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL 2026 playoff clash. Both teams have already secured their playoff berths. Cummins expressed a desire to test strategies and enjoy the game before the serious business of the finals begins. Rajat Patidar returns to captain RCB.

Only four years ago, two new teams Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants were added to the league.

Guardiola, who still had one year left on his contract, will take charge of his final match against Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday.

Ravichandran Ashwin believes Chennai Super Kings must invest in quality cricketers and a balanced squad for future IPL seasons. He stated the franchise can no longer rely on past strategies, emphasizing the need for experienced bowlers and spinners. Ashwin also questioned if the current CSK squad is suited for Chepauk's batting conditions, suggesting a more patient approach is required.

Exclusive! Pat Cummins opens up on SRH, six-hitting era & Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Devdutt Padikkal lauded teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as a are talent, deeming any attempt to replicate his unique batting style foolish. Sooryavanshi's explosive 93 off 38 balls made him the youngest to score 500+ T20 runs in a season, surpassing Padikkal's previous record. Both left-handers have been impactful players for their franchises.

The Delhi High Court strongly criticised the Wrestling Federation of India for deeming Vinesh Phogat ineligible, suspecting rule changes targeted her post-maternity break. The court questioned the federation's actions, emphasising motherhood shouldn't disadvantage athletes, and directed the Centre to form an expert panel to assess her fitness for the Asian Games trials, ensuring her participation.

Punjab Kings coach Ricky Ponting dismisses social media criticism amid a six-match winless streak, asserting the team remains focused. He believes qualifying for the playoffs will silence negativity and urges players to recall their early-season fearless brand of cricket to revive their fading hopes against Lucknow Super Giants.