The Times of India
Elections 2026Sports / The Times of India
Kolkata Knight Riders face continued concerns despite earning a point from a washout, with potential returns for Chakravarthy and Narine against Lucknow Super Giants. Both teams are sweating over overseas batter form and grappling with injury issues. LSG's top order and KKR's batting lineup have yet to fully fire, adding pressure to their upcoming encounter.
A symbolic dove release for peace at the PSL 2026 match between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen drew significant online criticism. Critics labelled the 'Pakistan - The Peace Maker' initiative as forced and PR-driven, deeming it out of place during the cricket tournament amidst geopolitical tensions.
Former world No. 1 Daniil Medvedev suffered a shocking 6-0, 6-0 defeat to Matteo Berrettini at the Monte Carlo Masters. Medvedev's frustration boiled over, leading to a racquet-smashing outburst and a code violation. Berrettini, ranked 90th, delivered a career-best performance in the swift, one-sided match, marking a rare 'double bagel' against a top-10 player.
Gujarat Titans coach Ashish Nehra's animated reaction to a costly overthrow during Delhi Capitals' chase became a talking point. A deflected ball gifted five runs, nearly costing GT a tense one-run victory. This incident underscored how crucial even minor fielding lapses can be in tightly contested matches, highlighting the fine margins that decide outcomes.
Delhi Capitals faced a crushing one-run loss to Gujarat Titans after David Miller's valiant effort. Despite a dramatic chase, a crucial decision on the penultimate ball led to defeat. However, Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel's empathetic gesture towards a dejected David Miller stole the spotlight, showcasing sportsmanship amidst intense competition.
Indian chess sensation R Vaishali secured a commanding victory over compatriot Divya Deshmukh at the Women's Candidates, seizing a co-lead. Meanwhile, R Praggnanandhaa faced another draw, struggling to convert his advantage against Wei Yi. In the Open section, Javokhir Sindarov leads the pack with 7/9 points. The tournament continues with crucial pairings in both sections.
David Miller's decision to refuse a single in the final over of the IPL 2026 match against Gujarat Titans cost Delhi Capitals a potential win. Despite an injured hand, Miller's late surge brought them close, but his final act left fans questioning his judgment as they lost by one run.
Jos Buttler achieved a significant milestone, hitting his 600th six in T20 cricket. He joined an elite group of players with this achievement. Gujarat Titans secured a thrilling one-run victory over Delhi Capitals. KL Rahul's strong performance for Delhi was not enough to secure the win. The match saw impressive batting displays from both sides.
Gujarat Titans secured their first IPL 2026 win with a thrilling one-run victory over Delhi Capitals. Chasing 211, Delhi fell short at 209/8 after David Miller refused a crucial single late. Despite strong knocks from Rahul and Miller, Rashid Khans wickets and a last-ball run-out by Jos Buttler sealed a dramatic finish.
Gujarat Titans secured a nail-biting one-run victory over Delhi Capitals after David Miller's hesitation on a single in the final over. Prasidh Krishna's slower ball and a direct hit from Jos Buttler proved decisive. Shubman Gill acknowledged the crucial moment and praised the team's fielding and the par-plus total posted.
In Controversial Move, Stars Like Neeraj Chopra Will Be Required To Seek Federations Approval Before Signing Sponsorship Deals.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is emerging as a standout performer in IPL 2026, impressing with fearless batting against top bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. Dale Steyn said the youngster has already instilled fear in bowlers. His quick 39 helped Rajasthan Royals beat Mumbai Indians, extending their winning run, with his aggressive approach troubling even the best in the game.
Vaishnavi Adkar and Sahaja Yamalapalli earned their first wins in India colours, helping India take an unbeatable lead against New Zealand in the BJK Cup Asia/Oceania Group 1 tie. Later, Ankita Raina and Rutuja Bhosale ensured a clean 3-0 win.
BCCI has introduced new IPL 2026 rules restricting substitute players movement. Only the 16 named players can enter the field, while others must stay in the dugout. A maximum of five substitutes can be near the boundary. The move tightens existing rules to reduce on-field crowding and improve discipline, though no official reason has been provided.
Shubman Gill returned for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026 but raised concerns about his neck injury, admitting, Its something similar to a past issue. Delhi Capitals opted to bowl first, citing pitch conditions and form. While DC continue their winning run, GT are still searching for their first victory, with Gills fitness remaining a concern.
The Doha Diamond League meet has been postponed to June 19 due to Middle East tensions, despite a temporary ceasefire. Safety concerns drove the decision, along with a venue shift to a temperature-controlled stadium. The event is notable for Neeraj Chopras 90.23m milestone last year. The conflict has also disrupted several major sporting events across the region.
Empty stadiums in PSL 2026 have sparked debate after Islamabad United owner Ali Naqvi linked the decision to Pakistans role in global peace efforts. His claim conflicts with PCBs earlier explanation citing a fuel crisis. Critics say the situation is being overstated, arguing that logistical issues are being framed as a larger diplomatic sacrifice.
Former Australia cricketer David Warner has been charged with drink driving in Sydney after allegedly recording a blood alcohol level of 0.104 during a random test. He will appear in court on May 7. Cricket NSW called the matter serious but pledged support. The incident may impact his reputation, though it is unlikely to affect his ongoing Pakistan Super League participation.
Netflixs Untold: Chess Mates revisits the 2022 controversy between Magnus Carlsen and Hans Niemann, sparked by Carlsens withdrawal after a shock defeat and the subsequent cheating allegations. The film examines Niemanns lawsuit, claims of reputational harm, and tensions involving Chess.coms business ties. Despite polished storytelling, it offers no new evidence, leaving both players standing by their positions.
Yashasvi Jaiswal's explosive 77 powered Rajasthan Royals to a 27-run victory over Mumbai Indians in a rain-shortened IPL 2026 clash. Jaiswal's innings, featuring 10 boundaries and four sixes, propelled RR to the top of the table. His century of sixes in the IPL is a remarkable feat, underscoring his destructive batting prowess and consistent performance for the franchise.
Sourav Ganguly has advocated for Mohammed Shami's return to the Indian national team, suggesting he should partner Jasprit Bumrah with the new ball. Ganguly praised Shami's recent IPL performances, particularly his economical spell against Sunrisers Hyderabad, and highlighted his strong domestic form, believing the pacer remains fit and capable of performing at the highest level.
Chennai Super Kings may soon welcome back Dewald Brevis, sidelined by a side strain. Head coach Stephen Fleming anticipates his return, potentially for the April 11 clash against Delhi Capitals. Brevis, retained for Rs 2.20 crore, expressed his eagerness to rejoin the team, stating, 'See you guys on the 11th every match, everywhere we play.
We lost momentum Mahela on MIs defeat and key mistakes
Yashasvi Jaiswal reveals RR dressing room mood after third straight win
Amid the Sooryavanshi-Jaiswal mayhem, Bumrah returned wicketless for the third consecutive match. A rarity in Bumrahs illustrious T20 career. For Bumrah, this unwanted hat-trick of going wicketless for three matches in a row was in fact the first time in nearly 8 years and only the fourth time in his entire T20 career.
Delhi Capitals, despite two wins, face top-order woes, relying on Sameer Rizvi's heroics. Gujarat Titans, conversely, falter in the middle order despite strong starts. Key players like Shubman Gill and KL Rahul are poised for impact, while bowlers T Natarajan and Ashok Sharma could be game-changers in this intriguing IPL clash.
Chennai Super Kings face growing uncertainty over MS Dhoni's availability for IPL 2026. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter is undergoing rehabilitation for a calf muscle strain and is unlikely to be match-ready soon. His absence coincides with CSK's poor start, having lost their first three matches, highlighting a critical gap in crunch situations.
Opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal's 'khel bindaas' mantra fueled Rajasthan Royals' fearless 27-run win over Mumbai Indians. Jaiswal, Player of the Match for his unbeaten 77, revealed how positive messaging with opening partner Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who smashed Jasprit Bumrah for six first ball, set the tone for their dominant 80-run partnership.
Former Australian opener David Warner has been charged with drink driving in Maroubra, Sydney, after a random breath test revealed a blood alcohol reading of 0.104. He was pulled over by police and subsequently arrested, with a court appearance scheduled for May 7, 2026. This incident occurred during a break from his PSL 2026 commitments.
Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is creating a stir, with a social media post hinting at a potential future with the Mumbai Indians. The 15-year-old prodigy has rewritten T20 records, becoming the youngest centurion and showcasing a fearless approach against top bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah.
A government probe found widespread irregularities in the Bangladesh Cricket Board elections. Vote-rigging, coercion, and bias were uncovered. The election process was neither free nor transparent. The government has moved to dissolve the BCB board. A new ad hoc committee will oversee the BCB for three months. Tamim Iqbal has been appointed as the new BCB president.
Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stunned cricket fans by hitting two sixes off world-class bowler Jasprit Bumrah in a single IPL over. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan lauded the young prodigy's fearless approach, noting how Sooryavanshi's audacious hitting forced even Bumrah to rethink his strategy. This remarkable feat against a top bowler highlights the youngster's immense potential.
Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya squarely blamed his bowlers for their 27-run IPL loss to Rajasthan Royals. Pandya highlighted the unit's failure to execute plans, conceding too many boundaries early on, which allowed RR's openers to dominate. Despite a strong performance from young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, MI's batting faltered, leading to the defeat.
Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is electrifying the IPL with his audacious batting, fearlessly taking on top bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. Rajasthan Royals' scouting efforts, spearheaded by Akshay Karanje and endorsed by Kumar Sangakkara, identified this prodigious talent, shifting the franchise's focus towards nurturing young stars for consistent performance and national benefit.
Gujarat Titans aim to rebound against an in-form Delhi Capitals, boosted by the return of captain Shubman Gill. While Delhi has secured wins, their top order remains a concern, with Sameer Rizvi consistently rescuing the team. Gujarat, conversely, has faltered in the middle order despite strong starts, making this clash a vital opportunity for both sides to address their weaknesses.
Archery sensation Payal Nag, a quadruple amputee, triumphed over friend Sheetal Devi for individual gold at the World Archery Para Series in Bangkok. Despite a life-altering accident at age eight, Payal's resilience, supported by her parents and coach, propelled her to international success. She now aims for Asian Games and Paralympic glory.
Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans face a weather threat for their IPL 2026 clash. Afternoon showers and thunderstorms are predicted, potentially delaying the match. While evening conditions look clearer, ground staff face a challenge. The match is expected to proceed, but outfield and pitch conditions could be affected.
Delhi Capitals are off to a strong start with two wins, showcasing a balanced bowling attack and eager to extend their winning streak against a winless Gujarat Titans. Despite top-order batting concerns, Capitals' bowlers have been instrumental. Titans, however, welcome back captain Shubman Gill and need their batting to perform to overcome recent struggles.
Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi achieved a remarkable feat against Jasprit Bumrah in the IPL, smashing two sixes off the formidable bowler in his very first encounter. This electrifying performance saw the young batsman score 39 off 14 balls, a feat no other prominent T20 star has managed against Bumrah.
Ace pacer Mohammed Shami, returning to his 'karm bhoomi' Eden Gardens, emphasised his 'labourer' mentality and commitment to hard work despite injuries and national team absence. He highlighted the importance of staying grounded and retaining his hunger for the game, drawing strength from his farmer roots and dedication to Bengal cricket.
Hardik Pandya lauded 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's fearless 39 off 14 balls, which, alongside Jaiswal's 77, propelled Rajasthan Royals to 150/3. Mumbai Indians fell short, restricted to 123/9 in the rain-hit IPL clash. Pandya attributed the loss to his bowlers' lack of execution, urging his team to learn and bounce back stronger.
Yashasvi Jaiswal achieved a significant IPL milestone, hitting his 100th six during Rajasthan Royals' commanding 27-run victory over Mumbai Indians. His unbeaten 77, coupled with a fiery cameo from 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, powered RR to 150/3 in a rain-shortened match. The Royals bowlers then stifled MI's chase, securing a third consecutive win.
Indian chess saw mixed fortunes at the FIDE Candidates 2026. Divya Deshmukh surged to the top of the Women's leaderboard with a stunning victory over Anna Muzychuk, while R Praggnanandhaa's World Championship hopes dimmed after a crucial loss. Vaishali Rameshbabu drew her match, setting up an exciting all-Indian clash in the next round.
At a time when six-hitting has become the defining feature of T20 cricket, South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi has raised serious concerns over the growing imbalance between bat and ball. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians coach Mahela Jayawardene does not see this as a major issue, whereas Kuldeep Yadav believes that Test cricket exists to truly test skill sets.
Rajasthan Royals secured a dominant 27-run victory over Mumbai Indians in a rain-affected IPL 2026 clash. Yashasvi Jaiswal's unbeaten 77 and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's quickfire 39 powered RR to 150/3. Mumbai faltered in the chase, collapsing to 123/9 despite late efforts.
In an 11-over-a-side contest, Sooryavanshi attacked Bumrah in the second over of the innings. The teenage batter hit two sixes in four deliveries, including one off the first ball he faced, putting Mumbai Indians under pressure early.
India trailed Thailand 0-1 in a rain-affected BJK Cup Asia/Oceania Group 1 tie in New Delhi. Vaishnavi Adkar lost her match and Sahaja Yamalapalli's contest was interrupted by rain before play was suspended for the day.
In the match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI), the young batting prodigy took on Bumrah in the second over of the innings, hitting two sixes in the space of four deliveries. The game had already been shortened to 11 overs per side due to rain, adding more weight to every over.
For the Mumbai Indians, captain Hardik Pandya, who missed the last match against Delhi Capitals, and Trent Boult came back into the side.

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