Sports / The Times of India
Tensions flared before the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona as referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, in an unusual press conference, tearfully addressed pressure stemming from Real Madrid TV's criticism. VAR official Pablo Gonzalez Fuentes echoed concerns about the impact on referees. Real Madrid retaliated by skipping pre-match events and issuing a statement condemning the officials' 'animosity'.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has taken responsibility for the team's poor performance in the IPL 2025, admitting unsuccessful auction outcomes and urging players to improve. Highlighting injuries, form issues, and an unsettled strategy as key factors, Fleming acknowledged CSK's struggles after a five-wicket defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Mahendra Singh Dhoni expressed disappointment as Chennai Super Kings suffered a five-wicket defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad, further diminishing their IPL 2025 play-off hopes. Dhoni felt that their score of 154 was inadequate on the Chepauk pitch, and the team's overall performance lacked cohesion. CSK, meanwhile, sit at the bottom with just two wins from nine games and only four points to show.
Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk, marking their first-ever win at the venue in IPL history and keeping their playoff hopes alive. CSK, on the other hand, suffered their joint-highest number of home defeats in a single season, dimming their chances of reaching the top four.
Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Chennai Super Kings by five wickets, keeping their playoff hopes alive while virtually knocking CSK out of the tournament. SRH chased down CSK's 154-run target in 18.4 overs, marking their first-ever win at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. With the victory, SRH leapfrogged Rajasthan Royals to move into seventh place on the points table. Meanwhile, CSK, with just two wins from nine matches, are all but out of the tournament.
Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Chennai Super Kings by five wickets at Chepauk, marking their first-ever win at the venue. Harshal Patel's impressive 4 for 28 restricted CSK to 154, a target SRH chased down in 18.4 overs, led by Ishan Kishan's 44 and a crucial unbroken partnership between Kamindu Mendis and Nitish Kumar Reddy.
Sunrisers Hyderabad broke their losing streak with a dominant five-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk, marking their first win at the venue. SRH's pace attack, led by Harshal Patel's 4 for 28, restricted CSK to 154. Ishan Kishan's 44 and a late partnership sealed the win, boosting SRH's playoff hopes while deepening CSK's struggles.
Sunrisers Hyderabad spoiled MS Dhoni's 400th T20 appearance, defeating Chennai Super Kings by five runs. Harshal Patel's impressive 4 for 28 led SRH's dominant pace attack, restricting CSK to 154 in pursuit of 149. Despite resistance from Brevis and Mhatre, CSK lost wickets consistently, ultimately succumbing to SRH's relentless bowling performance.
Veteran spinner Amit Mishra has strongly criticised Riyan Parag's captaincy and performance after Rajasthan Royals' defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Mishra highlighted Parag's errors during crucial moments, including a dropped catch and poor shot selection, contributing to the loss. RR's batting faltered despite promising starts from Jaiswal and Jurel, while Hazlewood's exceptional bowling sealed RCB's victory, ending RR's playoff hopes.
Sourav Ganguly has firmly advocated for severing relations with Pakistan following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in 26 fatalities. He emphasised that terrorism should not be tolerated and strict measures are essential. The BCCI has condemned the attack, observing a minute's silence and wearing black armbands during an IPL match as a mark of respect.
Sunrisers Hyderabad's dominant bowling performance against Chennai Super Kings was overshadowed by co-owner Kavya Maran's expressive reaction to a dropped catch. Harshal Patel's dropped catch of Ravindra Jadeja sparked Maran's visible frustration, quickly going viral. Despite the let-off, Patel rebounded with a four-wicket haul, showcasing the emotional highs and lows of the game.
In a thrilling IPL 2025 match, Kamindu Mendis of Sunrisers Hyderabad stunned spectators with an extraordinary catch, dismissing Dewald Brevis. Mendis's athletic feat is already being touted as the 'Catch of the Tournament'. Earlier, Ravindra Jadeja and Noor Ahmad faced unexpected umpire inspections, leading to bat replacements due to regulation failures.
Shreyas Iyer's impressive IPL 2025 performance, marked by significant scores and consistency against spin, has sparked discussions about his potential return to the national team. Sunil Joshi, Punjab Kings' spin coach, attributes Iyer's success to his hunger for challenges and leadership qualities. Iyer's technical adjustments and team-oriented approach further contribute to his resurgence.
In an unusual incident during the IPL match between Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Ravindra Jadeja's bat failed the umpire's inspection due to size regulations. This forced Jadeja to change his bat immediately after Sam Curran's dismissal. Sunrisers Hyderabad chose to bowl first after winning the toss, leading to strategic lineup changes for both teams.
Mohammed Shami etched his name in IPL record books by becoming the first bowler to claim a first-ball wicket for the fourth time, dismissing Shaik Rasheed in the SRH vs CSK match. Rasheed and Ayush Mhatre also made history as the second-youngest opening pair in IPL history, with a combined age of 38 years and 131 days.
MS Dhoni expressed concerns about the MA Chidambaram Stadium pitch, preferring the old red soil surface from before 2010. Pat Cummins chose to bowl first due to the dry surface and potential dew, a decision Dhoni also favoured. CSK made changes, bringing in Dewald Brevis and Deepak Hooda, as both teams aimed to improve their standing after recent setbacks.
MS Dhoni marked his 400th T20 match, joining an elite group of Indian cricketers. His career, highlighted by a T20 World Cup win and five IPL titles with CSK, showcases his enduring impact. Despite CSK's current struggles, Dhoni's tactical acumen and unwavering fan support continue to define his legendary presence.
Indian cricket legend Virender Sehwag advises young IPL sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, cautioning him against complacency. Despite Suryavanshi's impressive debut and lucrative contract, Sehwag stresses the importance of long-term dedication, citing Virat Kohli's enduring career as an example. Sehwag warns that early success doesn't guarantee lasting impact, emphasizing the need for sustained performance and grounded perspective.
Mumbai Indians are making a strong comeback in IPL 2025, securing four consecutive wins and climbing into the top four, fueled by Rohit Sharma's resurgence. After a slow start, Rohit has found his form, notching back-to-back half-centuries, which is his first time since 2016. His performance is boosting the team's chances as they aim to solidify their playoff spot.
Virat Kohli's stellar form continues as he scored his fifth half-century in IPL 2025, leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a crucial 11-run victory against Rajasthan Royals. Kohli's impressive 70 off 42 balls propelled RCB to 205/5, which their bowlers defended successfully. Dinesh Karthik praised Kohli's hunger and adaptability, highlighting his reflection on past performances.
Neeraj Chopra and his family have faced social media abuse after he invited Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem to the Neeraj Chopra Classic. Chopra expressed his deep hurt at having his integrity questioned and emphasised his commitment to India. He clarified that the invitation was a gesture of sportsmanship, and Nadeem's participation is now unlikely due to prior commitments.
Chennai Super Kings will clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad in a vital IPL 2025 match. Both teams need a win to boost their playoff hopes. CSK aim to regain dominance at Chepauk while SRH seek batting consistency. The weather is expected to be hot at Chepauk with spinners slated to come into play. The head-to-head record between these two teams favours CSK.
Chennai Super Kings, struggling with just two wins in IPL 2025, face Sunrisers Hyderabad in a critical match. Coach Stephen Fleming acknowledged CSK's batting woes, both at the top and in the middle order. Despite their position at the bottom of the table, Fleming remains optimistic, drawing inspiration from RCB's previous turnaround.
In a crucial IPL 2025 encounter, Chennai Super Kings face Sunrisers Hyderabad at Chepauk, marking MS Dhoni's 400th T20 match. Both teams, languishing at the bottom, desperately need a win to revive their playoff hopes. For CSK, victory on Dhoni's milestone night could spark a resurgence, while SRH aims to keep their slim chances alive.
Javelin star Neeraj Chopra addressed criticism for inviting Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem to the Neeraj Chopra Classic in Bengaluru, scheduled for May 2025. He clarified the invitation preceded the Pahalgam attacks and condemned the ensuing hate directed at him and his family. The two-time Olympic medallist emphasised his patriotism and the event's aim to promote Indian sports, stating Nadeem's participation is now impossible.
Rajasthan Royals are facing a tough time in the IPL, having lost five consecutive matches, including a recent defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his disappointment with RR's approach, especially considering Rahul Dravid's presence as coach. The team struggles with Sanju Samson's injury and inconsistent performances from key players, impacting their chances of making the playoffs.
Virat Kohli's record-breaking 26th T20 half-century at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their first home win of the IPL 2025 season against the Rajasthan Royals. Kohli surpassed Alex Hales for most fifties at a single venue and also overtook Chris Gayle in fifty-plus scores in T20 cricket.
We haven't been able to win the crunch moments of a match: Sandeep Sharma
Josh Hazelwood is a class operator and a world class bowler: Andy Flower
Josh Hazlewood's impressive 4/33 led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to an 11-run victory over Rajasthan Royals in a thrilling IPL match. Bengaluru scored 205-5, powered by Virat Kohli's 70. Rajasthan faltered despite promising starts from Yashasvi Jaiswal and other top-order batters. Key wickets by Hazlewood in the final overs sealed the win for Bengaluru
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a crucial victory against Rajasthan Royals, fueled by Virat Kohli's composed seventy and Josh Hazlewood's game-changing final overs. Kohli's innings anchored Bengaluru's innings, while Hazlewood's exceptional death bowling restricted Rajasthan's chase, ultimately sealing an eleven-run win for the home side. This victory propelled Bengaluru to third place, while Rajasthan's playoff aspirations suffered a setback.
Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar was seen enjoying a playful moment with Champak, the IPL's new robot dog, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium before a match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. Champak, named through an online poll referencing a popular TV character, impressed Gavaskar with its ability to jump and run.
During an IPL 2025 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals, an umpire's hasty LBW decision created a stir. Initially signaling OUT on Krunal Pandya's appeal against Dhruv Jurel, the umpire quickly reversed his call to NOT OUT after Jurel's review showed a clear inside edge. Earlier, Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal's half-centuries propelled RCB to 205/5 in Bengaluru.
Rajasthan Royals are dominating the IPL 2025 Powerplay with a league-leading 37 sixes, showcasing their aggressive batting strategy. Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, and Punjab Kings follow behind. Chennai Super Kings are surprisingly at the bottom with only five Powerplay sixes. Earlier, Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted a competitive 205 for five, powered by fluent half-centuries from Virat Kohli (70 off 42) and Devdutt Padikkal (50 off 27).
Virat Kohli achieved a new milestone in T20 cricket. He now holds the record for the most half-centuries while batting first. This happened during the IPL match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals. Kohli scored 70 runs. RCB reached a total of 205/5. Sandeep Sharma and Jofra Archer took wickets for RR.
Bengaluru is set to host the Neeraj Chopra Classic on May 24. This Gold-Label javelin meet will feature top international athletes. Anderson Peters, Thomas Rohler, and Julius Yego are among the stars. Arshad Nadeem will miss the event due to the Asian Athletics Championships. The competition aims to inspire Indian athletes.
Yashasvi Jaiswal etched his name in IPL history during the 2025 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, smashing a six off the very first ball. This feat marked his third time achieving this, making him the record holder for most sixes on the first ball of an innings. Earlier, Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted a competitive 205 for five, powered by fluent half-centuries from Virat Kohli (70 off 42) and Devdutt Padikkal (50 off 27).
Sachin Tendulkar at 52: Power, Pride, and a Nations Pulse
Sunil Gavaskar passionately condemned the Pahalgam terror attack during a live IPL broadcast, questioning the purpose of the violence and urging for peace. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia also issued a strong statement, expressing condolences and solidarity with the victims' families. The BCCI further conveyed its condolences via social media, standing in support of those affected by the tragic event.
Sir Vivian Richards has voiced his support for Babar Azam amidst his current struggles, assuring fans of his imminent return to form. Despite recent poor performances and being dropped from the T20I squad, Richards remains confident in Babar's resilience. Salman Iqbal predicts Babar will surpass even Virat Kohli upon his resurgence, comparing him to legends like Garry Sobers.
Former Pakistani cricketer Danish Kaneria criticized Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the Pahalgam terror attack, questioning his silence and accusing Pakistan of harboring terrorists. Kaneria defended his loyalty to Pakistan despite being Hindu, highlighting the discrimination faced by Hindus there. The Pahalgam attack the deadliest since the 2019 Pulwama tragedy drew widespread condemnation globally. Leaders from around the world, along with prominent voices from the cricketing fraternity a
Rajasthan Royals fans are hopeful as Riyan Parag shares that Sanju Samson is nearing his return from a finger injury. Samson's absence has impacted the team's performance, with the Royals currently struggling in the standings. Parag has stepped up as captain, making strategic changes like bringing in Fazalhaq Farooqi, while eagerly awaiting Samson's comeback to revitalize the team's season.
Andrew Flintoff, the former England cricket captain, has opened up about the profound impact of his near-fatal car crash during Top Gear filming in 2022. He candidly admits that he felt it would have been much easier if he had died, revealing the depth of his despair following the incident. Flintoff retired from cricket in 2010 at the age of 31, having represented England in 79 Test matches between 1998 and 2009.
Rohit Sharma's brilliant 70 and a 53-run partnership with Suryakumar Yadav propelled Mumbai Indians to a dominant seven-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Mumbai chased down the 144-run target with ease, securing their fourth consecutive win. Earlier, Heinrich Klaasen's 71 helped SRH recover to 143/8, but it wasn't enough to stop Mumbai's momentum.
FanCode has suspended the broadcast of PSL 2025 in India, effective immediately, following the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the loss of many lives. The decision reflects the national sentiment and sensitivity towards the incident. During the IPL match, players honored the victims with black armbands and a moment of silence.
Islamabad United showcased a dominant batting display, securing a convincing seven-wicket victory over Multan Sultans in their recent PSL encounter. Andries Gous's explosive unbeaten 80 led United's successful chase of 169, overshadowing Usman Khan's earlier 61 for the Sultans. Mohammad Rizwan's frustration was evident as Multan struggled to contain Islamabad's fluent response.
Rohit Sharma's resurgence has propelled Mumbai Indians back into IPL 2025 contention. His explosive 70 off 46 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad secured MI's fourth consecutive victory. Suryakumar Yadav presented Sharma with the Dressing Room Batting Award for his impactful innings. Sharma's recent form contrasts sharply with his early-season struggles, marking his first back-to-back IPL fifties since 2016.