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Elections 2026Sports / The Times of India
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.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Sunrisers Hyderabad in a high-pressure opening match. Virat Kohli and Phil Salt will aim for strong starts for RCB. Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head bring attacking intent for SRH. Ishan Kishan leads SRH with added responsibility. This contest promises a run-fest with individual brilliance expected to decide the outcome.
IPL 2026 commences with a thrilling encounter between defending champions RCB and 2016 winners SRH. RCB, led by Rajat Patidar, face challenges with key pacers missing, while SRH will be without Pat Cummins. The M Chinnaswamy Stadium is set for a high-scoring affair with clear skies predicted.
The Candidates tournament begins in Cyprus with American duo Nakamura and Caruana favored over Indian contenders like Praggnanandhaa. In the women's section, Divya Deshmukh is seen as a strong challenger to top seed Zhu Jiner. This event tests if India's chess dominance extends beyond Gukesh.
Chennai Super Kings face a significant setback as MS Dhoni is ruled out for the first two weeks of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain. In response, former CSK player Ravichandran Ashwin has unveiled his strongest playing XI, featuring Sanju Samson as wicketkeeper-opener and a balanced mix of batsmen and bowlers.
Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam faced online trolling after dropping a catch during an advertisement shoot ahead of the PSL 2026. The tournament will be played behind closed doors due to geopolitical tensions, a move Azam acknowledged will be missed by players and fans alike.
Young batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, now 15, is eligible for senior international cricket. His phenomenal performances, including a century in his IPL debut and Player of the Tournament in the U19 World Cup, have captivated fans. He's already shattered List A records, showcasing immense talent and maturity.
Chennai Super Kings have suffered a major setback as their star wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni has been ruled out for two weeks due to a calf strain. CSK released a statement confirming the development.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a show-cause notice to pacer Naseem Shah for allegedly violating his central contract. A deleted X post by Shah appeared to criticize Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz, who was the guest of honor at the PSL 2026 opening match. The PCB stated that disciplinary action will be determined after hearing Shah's explanation.
Divya Deshmukh, the youngest participant at 20, makes her debut in the World Championship Candidates chess tournament in Cyprus. Having qualified by winning the Women's World Cup, she aims to leverage her strong opening preparations and aggressive play against higher-rated opponents.
Golf legend Tiger Woods was arrested on a DUI charge after his Land Rover overturned near his Florida home. Woods showed signs of impairment and refused a urine test, though a breathalyzer showed no alcohol. This incident follows a serious 2017 car crash that resulted in severe leg injuries.
Bangladesh's new government has lifted the ban on broadcasting the Indian Premier League (IPL), signaling a shift towards a more commercial approach. Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan confirmed no restrictions exist, and any broadcaster can telecast the tournament positively. Cable operators also stated previous directives are no longer valid, allowing IPL broadcasts.
Golf legend Tiger Woods was arrested on a DUI charge after his Land Rover overturned near his Florida home. Woods showed signs of impairment but passed a breathalyzer test. He refused a urine analysis, leading to DUI charges, with experts suspecting medication or drug influence.
Injuries are impacting IPL 2026 team plans, with Australian pacers Starc, Cummins, and Hazlewood facing early absences. While Cummins' recovery is monitored and Hazlewood has joined RCB, Starc's return timeline remains uncertain, causing fan frustration. Delhi Capitals, heavily reliant on Starc, are reassessing strategies to end their playoff drought.
Sunrisers Hyderabad will be without captain Pat Cummins for at least the first two weeks of the IPL as he recovers bowling fitness. Head coach Daniel Vettori confirmed Cummins' overall fitness is excellent, but his bowling workload is being carefully rebuilt. Ishan Kishan will captain in Cummins' absence, praised for his leadership and form.
FanCode and Genius Sports are vying for Indian Super League and Federation Cup commercial rights, with Genius Sports making a significantly higher bid. Capri Sports is the sole bidder for the Indian Women's League. The tender encompasses sponsorship, digital, and merchandising, aiming for a comprehensive commercial ecosystem for Indian club football.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru begin their title defence against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. After a historic maiden IPL win, RCB faces an immediate challenge from SRH's explosive batting. Despite key absences in their bowling attack, RCB relies on a strong batting core and a revamped squad to protect their reputation and start the season strongly.
RCB coach Andy Flower views the IPL's Impact Player rule as a positive tactical innovation, enhancing strategic decisions despite concerns about diluting team selection challenges. He also confirmed Josh Hazlewood's arrival but unavailability for the opener, expressing confidence in other Indian pacers like Mangesh, Abhinandan, and Rasik to fill the void.
Former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad has sharply criticized the Pakistan Super League (PSL), ranking it significantly below the Indian Premier League (IPL). He highlighted how many overseas players commit to the PSL but later opt for the IPL due to better offers, impacting Pakistan's premier T20 competition and its national team's development.
Sai Sudharsan prioritizes batting versatility over solely chasing high strike rates for IPL 2026, aiming to adapt to various pitch conditions. He believes in playing longer innings to secure team victories. Sudharsan also expressed strong trust in Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill's leadership and his ability to understand and support players.
PV Sindhu penned an emotional tribute to her long-time rival Carolina Marin following the Spanish legend's retirement announcement. Sindhu recalled their shared history from junior days to intense on-court battles, highlighting Marin's skill and fighting spirit. She expressed gratitude for their camaraderie and wished Marin a happy retirement, acknowledging the void her absence will leave in badminton.
Shashank Singh is confident Punjab Kings will win the IPL trophy this season after their narrow 2025 final loss. He emphasizes team belief and a match-by-match approach, focusing on preparation over past success. Singh also highlights the importance of embracing his lower-middle order role and prioritizing team impact over individual milestones.
The 2026 Candidates chess tournament in Cyprus faces pre-event anxieties due to Middle East tensions, leading to a player withdrawal and concerns over logistics. This echoes a past instance in 1978 Tehran, where Indian players competed amidst a crumbling monarchy and civil unrest, largely shielded by isolation from news and the tournament's remote location.
Former cricketer Yograj Singh has surprisingly backed MS Dhoni to continue playing in the IPL, urging him to play for another decade. Singh praised Dhoni's fitness, discipline, and dedication, dismissing age as a factor for retirement. He questioned critics and highlighted that performance should be the sole criterion for selection, even referencing younger stars.