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The Times of India

Sports / The Times of India

BFI defies SAI warning, insists head coaches role inescapable in selection trials

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.

7 May 2026 9:44 am
IPL playoff qualification scenarios: Punjab Kings still in control despite slide

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

7 May 2026 9:29 am
IPL 2026 Preview: LSG seek revival as RCB eye top-two surge

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.

7 May 2026 9:27 am
UCL: Ousmane Dembele strike sends PSG into blockbuster final against Arsenal F.C.

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.

7 May 2026 9:19 am
Why IPL teams feel home advantage has vanished as 220+ scores become the norm

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.

7 May 2026 8:39 am
'Ball was bouncing unusually': R Ashwin decodes PBKS fielding woes vs SRH

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.

7 May 2026 8:32 am
Salil Ankola, ex-India pacer & national selector, battling depression; undergoing treatment

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.

7 May 2026 8:19 am
5 dropped catches in 3 matches PBKS star Shashank Singh faces mounting criticism

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.

7 May 2026 8:08 am
Cooper Connolly creates historic IPL milestone, youngest overseas batter to

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.

7 May 2026 7:04 am
IPL playoff qualification scenarios: Sunrisers Hyderabad inch closer to top-4 finish

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.

7 May 2026 7:00 am
IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma scripts history, hits 300 sixes to enter elite club

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.

7 May 2026 6:30 am
SRH create unique IPL record with unmatched Hyderabad dominance over PBKS

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.

7 May 2026 6:28 am
IPL not as good as everyone thinks: Cooks bold claim stirs fresh controversy

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.

7 May 2026 6:00 am
Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB rocked by billion-rupee crisis as PSL payment row explodes

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.

7 May 2026 5:30 am
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could be burnt out by 21 - explosive claim on RR prodigy

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.

7 May 2026 5:00 am
In disbelief! Chahal's reaction to dropped catches goes viral - Watch

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.

7 May 2026 12:17 am
'Dropped catches cost us'- Iyer rues missed chances as PBKS suffer third straight defeat

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.

7 May 2026 12:14 am
Heinrich Klaasen goes top of Orange Cap list after match-winning knock vs PBKS

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.

6 May 2026 11:59 pm
Connollys unbeaten ton in vain after SRH defeat PBKS by 33 runs

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.

6 May 2026 11:48 pm
IPL Points Table: SRH climb to top spot; PBKS suffer three consecutive losses

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.

6 May 2026 11:30 pm
Former teammate of Virat Kohli passes away at 36; Yuvraj Singh pays tribute

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.

6 May 2026 11:05 pm
Vineshs Asiad 2026 dream crushed as WFI bars her from trials

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.

6 May 2026 10:47 pm
Hardik Pandya set to link up with MI; SKY doubtful for RCB game

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.

6 May 2026 10:07 pm
IPL 2026: SRH script history, rewrite record books in run-fest against PBKS

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.

6 May 2026 9:38 pm
Rare! Gukesh celebrates emotionally after beating Sindarov - Watch

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.

6 May 2026 9:24 pm
IPL: Chahal scripts unwanted record thanks to Punjab Kings butter fingers

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.

6 May 2026 8:42 pm
Lafda ho gaya na: R Ashwins cheeky reply on Rohit Sharma rift rumours

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.

6 May 2026 8:17 pm
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi at centre of bizarre child labour FIR threat against RR

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.

6 May 2026 7:32 pm
IPL Toss Today: PBKS choose to field as Nitish Kumar Reddy comes back into SRH XI

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.

6 May 2026 7:14 pm
'Want to play 2027 WC with Rohit, Virat': IPL sensation makes bold claim

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.

6 May 2026 5:41 pm
IPL 2026: Top 5 expert reactions to Sanju Samsons match-winning 87* vs DC

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.

6 May 2026 4:57 pm
Sharam karo... Pant se kuch seekho: Yuvraj teases Abhishek, Gill - Watch

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.

6 May 2026 4:49 pm
Sports Ministry reiterates policy on India-Pakistan sporting relations: No bilaterals, multi-nationals exempted

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.

6 May 2026 4:37 pm
KSCA reacts to Bengaluru losing IPL 2026 final: Specific reasons not communicated

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.

6 May 2026 3:50 pm
'IPL lines everyones pockets': Cook's fresh dig at Pietersen over Bethell 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.

6 May 2026 3:32 pm
FIFA World Cup 2026: Will one-third of the world be left in the dark?

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.

6 May 2026 2:40 pm
Why Bengaluru lost IPL 2026 final hosting rights to Ahmedabad

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.

6 May 2026 2:38 pm
IPL 2026: Will Nitish Kumar Reddy play vs PBKS today? SRH coach drops big hint

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.

6 May 2026 2:09 pm
Samson not in peak physical condition, says Manjrekar; cites Kohli example

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.

6 May 2026 2:06 pm
Hemang Badani admits perform or perish as DC face must-win situation

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

6 May 2026 1:11 pm
Akeal Hosein stresses discipline over wickets

Akeal Hosein stresses discipline over wickets

6 May 2026 1:10 pm
IPL 2026: Fortress factor how home advantage is shaping playoff race

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.

6 May 2026 1:01 pm
IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad; Mullanpur and Dharamsala to host playoffs

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.

6 May 2026 12:12 pm
Aaron Finch calls Samson the 'superstar' CSK were 'crying out for'

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.

6 May 2026 11:20 am
Vinesh Phogat faces whereabouts failure notice; ITA warns of possible sanction

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.

6 May 2026 10:49 am
From gruelling train journeys to Asian bronze: Inunganbi breaks Indias 13-yr drought

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.

6 May 2026 10:03 am
IPL: RickeltonRohit duo the lone bright spot in Mumbai Indians fading campaign

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.

6 May 2026 9:49 am
Samson joins elite list of Kohli and Rahul after unbeaten 87 against DC

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.

6 May 2026 9:37 am
There was a desire: Samson on missing ton; Gavaskar says, he played for the team

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.

6 May 2026 9:13 am
'He's backbone now': Gaikwad credits Samson for CSK's late-season revival

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.

6 May 2026 9:07 am