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The Times of India

Sports / The Times of India

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Can the bindaas star avoid second-season blues?

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi took the Indian Premier League (IPL) by storm last season, smashing 24 sixes off just 122 balls. In seven matches, he piled up 252 runs at a staggering strike rate of 206.55. Since then, he has continued his explosive form and helped India U-19 win the title. The second-season blues have affected many young stars in the past; the big question remains: will Vaibhav be able to sustain his meteoric rise?

30 Mar 2026 1:50 pm
'Umpires ne bola side ho jaayein': First-hand account of ball-tampering roq

Pakistan Super League (PSL) is embroiled in a ball-tampering scandal after a controversial incident involving Lahore Qalandars players. Umpires awarded five penalty runs to Karachi Kings after deeming the ball deliberately altered, leading to a reduced target and a Lahore Qalandars loss. Opener Fakhar Zaman has denied charges of ball-tampering.

30 Mar 2026 1:07 pm
Rohit 2.0 will worry all IPL teams: Kumble hails MI stars blazing return

Anil Kumble lauded Rohit Sharma's explosive 78 off 38 balls, heralding a formidable 'Rohit 2.0' ready to dominate the IPL. Kumble highlighted Rohit's effortless mastery over quality bowlers, suggesting this revitalised form will pose a significant threat to all opposing teams. He also critiqued KKR's spin strategy, particularly their delayed use of Sunil Narine, which proved costly.

30 Mar 2026 1:06 pm
Angkrish Raghuvanshi focused only on team's wins

Angkrish Raghuvanshi focused only on team's wins

30 Mar 2026 1:05 pm
Not here to show how talented I am: Rahane unfazed by noise around his future

Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane dismissed criticism after his 67 against Mumbai Indians, stating he's focused on personal growth, not proving critics wrong. Despite cramps and Jasprit Bumrah's impactful bowling, Rahane expressed happiness with his white-ball improvement. He also backed struggling spinner Varun Chakravarthy, urging patience for the inexperienced bowling attack.

30 Mar 2026 12:19 pm
Cameron Green workload row: Who calls the shots, KKR or Cricket Australia?

Cameron Green's massive INR 25.20 crore IPL price tag is under scrutiny as he's unavailable to bowl due to a lower back injury. Cricket Australia clarified KKR knew of the situation, sparking debate about player workload management and franchise rights versus national board control. This situation has left KKR struggling with team balance.

30 Mar 2026 12:15 pm
PSL hotel security breach! 4 'guests' till 1:25 am

Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Afridi and player Sikandar Raza are accused of breaching hotel security protocols by hosting four guests in Raza's room until 1:25 a.m., despite repeated denials from security. Raza claims it was his request to meet family and friends, stating he and Afridi were unaware of updated SOPs.

30 Mar 2026 11:27 am
KKR ... : Cricket Australia forced to clarify on Green after Rahanes ask CA jibe

Cricket Australia clarified Cameron Green's inability to bowl for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026, citing a lower back injury. This came after KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane's pointed remarks about the Australian board. Green is undergoing managed rehabilitation and is expected to resume bowling in 10-12 days, with KKR fully informed.

30 Mar 2026 10:47 am
'Enough hopping': Hardik wants Shardul to finish career at Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians ended their 13-year opening match losing streak with a six-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders. Skipper Hardik Pandya praised Shardul Thakur, who took 3/39, expressing a desire for him to stay with the franchise long-term. A strong opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton anchored the successful chase.

30 Mar 2026 10:32 am
Hauled up for ball-tampering in PSL, Fakhar Zaman denies charges

Pakistani cricketer Fakhar Zaman faces ball tampering allegations from a recent PSL match. He was reportedly caught on live television altering the ball. Umpires intervened and changed the ball, penalizing his team. Zaman has denied the charges before the match referee. A verdict is expected soon. This incident impacted the match outcome.

30 Mar 2026 9:36 am
Candidates Chess: Different time controls for men and women add intrigue

The Candidates chess tournament in Cyprus features varied time controls for men and women. Men face no time increment until move 41, aiming for excitement. Women receive a 30-second increment from the first move. This difference in time management for the first 40 moves has drawn criticism from chess experts.

30 Mar 2026 9:28 am
IPL Preview: Reset Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings eye revival

Guwahati gears up for an IPL clash between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings, with weather being the only concern. Both teams aim for a reset after disappointing 2025 campaigns. Sanju Samson returns to Guwahati, now playing for CSK against his former franchise, Rajasthan Royals.

30 Mar 2026 9:06 am
IPL match today, RR vs CSK: Team prediction, head-to-head, pitch report, weather update

Sanju Samson faces an emotional reunion with Rajasthan Royals, his former team, as he debuts for Chennai Super Kings. Having led RR to a final and becoming their top scorer, Samson's move marks a significant shift. Both teams, aiming for a fresh start after disappointing seasons, will battle it out in Guwahati, with weather potentially playing a role.

30 Mar 2026 8:33 am
Record broken! Rohit Sharma dethrones Virat Kohli with KKR carnage

Rohit Sharma's explosive 78 off 38 balls, coupled with Ryan Rickelton's 81, powered Mumbai Indians to a six-wicket victory over KKR in their IPL 2026 opener. The duo's record 148-run stand secured MI's highest successful home chase. Rohit also set a new IPL record for most runs against a single opponent.

30 Mar 2026 8:25 am
No rust despite rest as Kohli does Kohli things

Virat Kohli showcased imperious form upon his return to T20 cricket, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 38 balls to guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a six-wicket win. He attributed his smooth transition to recent ODI success and dedicated fitness work, emphasizing the importance of breaks for staying fresh and motivated.

30 Mar 2026 7:38 am
PSL ball-tampering row! Afridi says 'We'll check camera'

Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Afridi addressed a controversial final over where teammate Fakhar Zaman was accused of ball tampering. The incident led to five penalty runs for the opposition, Karachi Kings, significantly impacting the match's outcome. Afridi stated the team would review the footage to understand the situation fully.

30 Mar 2026 7:27 am
Ball-tampering in PSL! Fakhar caught on camera, Afridi reacts

A ball-tampering controversy has erupted in the Pakistan Super League, centering on Lahore Qalandars' Fakhar Zaman. During a crucial final over, Fakhar was seen altering the ball, leading umpires to award five penalty runs to Karachi Kings. A disciplinary hearing is underway, with a potential one-match ban if found guilty.

30 Mar 2026 6:54 am
Candidates Chess: How R Praggnanandhaa outfoxed Anish Giri

India's R Praggnanandhaa delivered a tactical masterclass on the opening day of the 2026 FIDE Candidates, defeating Dutch No. 1 Anish Giri. While only three games in the Open section saw decisive results, Praggnanandhaa's clinical precision highlighted a formidable start to his campaign. The Women's section saw all four games end in draws.

30 Mar 2026 6:21 am
IPL 2026: Rohit Sharma scripts history, becomes the first player to

Rohit Sharma achieved a major IPL milestone. He became the first capped player to participate in all 19 seasons. Sharma marked the occasion with a strong batting performance. He scored 78 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders. Mumbai Indians successfully chased a large target. This victory secured a six-wicket win for Mumbai.

30 Mar 2026 6:00 am
PSL controversy erupts! Shaheen Afridi under scanner after shocking rule violation

Lahore Qalandars stars Shaheen Afridi and Sikandar Raza reportedly flouted PSL security rules, allowing unauthorized visitors into a hotel room. This breach, despite denied requests, has prompted an official inquiry. The Pakistan Cricket Board faces a disciplinary decision, with potential fines or bans, as the tournament grapples with heightened security and fuel shortage concerns.

30 Mar 2026 5:00 am
Rohit Sharma, Rickelton fire MI to record chase, ending 13-year jinx

Mumbai Indians shattered their opening match losing streak, chasing down KKR's 220 with a six-wicket victory. Rickelton and Rohit Sharma's explosive 148-run stand powered the chase. Despite KKR's strong batting performance, including fifties from Rahane and Raghuvanshi, MI's bowlers, led by Shardul Thakur, managed to restrict them. This win marks a significant start for MI in IPL 2026.

29 Mar 2026 11:44 pm
Dhurandhar 2 fame Sara Arjun turns heads at Wankhede for MI vs KKR - Watch

Actress Sara Arjun graced the Wankhede Stadium with her family, witnessing Mumbai Indians' thrilling six-wicket IPL victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. This win marked MI's first opening-game success since 2012, fueled by stellar performances from Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton. KKR's strong total was overcome by MI's dominant batting, delighting fans and celebrity guests alike.

29 Mar 2026 11:24 pm
Rohit Sharma scripts history with 50th IPL fifty, joins Virat Kohli in elite list

Rohit Sharma's magnificent 78 off 39 balls powered Mumbai Indians' chase against KKR, marking his 50th IPL half-century. He partnered with Ryan Rickelton for a record 148-run opening stand, setting the tone for a strong pursuit of KKR's 221. Despite falling short of a century, Sharma's innings was crucial in keeping MI ahead of the required rate.

29 Mar 2026 10:44 pm
Rohit Sharma shell-shocked after dropping sitter off Raghuvanshi - Watch

Rohit Sharma dropped a crucial catch off Angkrish Raghuvanshi's bat during the Mumbai Indians vs. Kolkata Knight Riders IPL 2026 clash. The costly miss allowed Raghuvanshi to continue his impressive innings, contributing significantly to KKR's formidable total of 220. This fielding lapse, among others, highlighted MI's struggles as KKR dominated the match.

29 Mar 2026 9:24 pm
Sunil Narine scripts history, etches name in IPL record books

Sunil Narine has set a new IPL record. He is now the overseas player with the most appearances in the tournament's history. Narine achieved this milestone in his 190th match for Kolkata Knight Riders. He surpassed Kieron Pollard's previous record. Narine has been a consistent performer for KKR since his debut in 2012.

29 Mar 2026 8:03 pm
No Suryakumar Yadav in MI XI as Hardik Pandya opts to bowl vs KKR

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and chose to bowl against Kolkata Knight Riders at Wankhede Stadium, citing a greener pitch. Suryakumar Yadav is absent from the starting XI, expected as an Impact Player. MI aims to break their opening match losing streak since 2012, with debut caps for Ghazanfar and Rutherford.

29 Mar 2026 7:09 pm
CSK in trouble! After Dhoni injury, star player ruled out of IPL 2026 start

Chennai Super Kings face significant injury blows ahead of IPL 2026, with Dewald Brevis sidelined for the initial matches due to a side strain. This adds to the absence of MS Dhoni and Nathan Ellis, impacting the team's middle order and bowling attack. CSK will aim to overcome these setbacks as they begin their campaign against Rajasthan Royals.

29 Mar 2026 6:49 pm
KPMG to evaluate 'feasibility' of bids received for Indian football's commercial rights

The AIFF Executive Committee has referred three long-term commercial rights bids for club competitions to KPMG for audit. This decision follows ISL clubs' request to avoid a binding decision on the 15+5 rights cycle. Clubs will also meet with bidders to address queries, ensuring transparency before the AIFF General Body considers the matter.

29 Mar 2026 6:27 pm
Ben Stokes injury 'so much worse than what you think', reveals coach

England Test captain Ben Stokes' return to cricket is delayed due to a serious facial injury sustained in February. Recovering from a fractured cheekbone, Stokes will miss Durham's opening County Championship match. Head coach Ryan Campbell confirmed the injury's severity and Stokes' determination to regain fitness after a challenging Ashes campaign and personal difficulties.

29 Mar 2026 6:04 pm
MI vs KKR: Ex-India cricketer says Rohit will smash KKR like 'halwa'

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said Rohit has often been comfortable against KKR and expects that trend to continue at the Wankhede Stadium.

29 Mar 2026 5:47 pm
Delhi Capitals unveil new jersey ahead of IPL 2026

Delhi Capitals unveil new jersey ahead of IPL 2026

29 Mar 2026 5:08 pm
'Virat bhais only instruction was': Padikkal reveals Kohlis mantra in RCBs chase

Royal Challengers Bengaluru began their Indian Premier League 2026 season with a strong victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli's partnership was key in chasing a 202-run target. Padikkal highlighted Kohli's guidance and the support from coaches. This win marks a significant start for the defending champions.

29 Mar 2026 5:06 pm
'It all went by in a flash': Manish Pandey opens up on his 19-year IPL journey

Manish Pandey, a constant in the IPL since 2008, reflects on his 19-year journey, calling it a 'flash'. He's set for IPL 2026 with KKR, cherishing his maiden century and the tournament's evolution. Pandey highlights the IPL's role in talent development and his own career, citing a match-winning knock in the 2014 final as pivotal.

29 Mar 2026 4:23 pm
'Ek ko papa chun le': Harbhajan's reply to three clowns jibe goes viral

Harbhajan Singh went viral after hitting back at a troll who called him, Virender Sehwag, and Aakash Chopra three clowns during an IPL broadcast. He replied, Inme se ek ko papa chun le, earning praise for his witty comeback. The exchange sparked debate on trolling, highlighting how quickly social media reactions can escalate during major cricket events.

29 Mar 2026 4:19 pm
'A long wait of nearly seven decades': PM Modi hails J&K's Ranji win

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Jammu and Kashmirs first Ranji Trophy win as a proud moment after nearly 70 years. In Mann Ki Baat, he praised the teams hard work, captain Paras Dogras leadership, and Aaqib Nabis 60 wickets. Modi said the victory has inspired the region and boosted sports enthusiasm, adding that Jammu and Kashmir is emerging as a sporting hub and expressing hope for continued success.

29 Mar 2026 3:35 pm
Virat Kohli 'changed a lot after retiring from Test cricket'

Virat Kohlis unbeaten 69 powered RCB to a successful chase, showing his top form after a T20 break. Dale Steyn praised his improved six-hitting and evolving mindset. Kohlis aggressive approach has grown over time. Devdutt Padikkal said Kohlis presence eased pressure, while also crediting coaches Andy Flower and Dinesh Karthik for his development.

29 Mar 2026 2:57 pm
Bizarre at this age: R Ashwin in awe of Virat Kohlis relentless intensity

Ravichandran Ashwin lauded Virat Kohli's izarre energy levels at his age, stating the Indian stalwart continues to walk the talk after stepping away from Tests and T20Is. Kohli's unbeaten 69 in the IPL 2026 opener against SRH showcased his enduring hunger and intensity between the wickets, setting a benchmark for the game.

29 Mar 2026 2:25 pm
Mumbai Indians hit 300-match mark, first franchise to reach T20 milestone

Mumbai Indians are set to become the first franchise team to play 300 T20 matches when they face Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL 2026 opener. This historic milestone underscores their enduring presence and success in the shortest format of the game. The team aims to mark this occasion by ending their five-year title drought.

29 Mar 2026 1:55 pm
MI vs KKR: 5 players to watch out for

Mumbai Indians face Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL 2026 opener at Wankhede. MI aim to end their title drought, while KKR seek a comeback. Key players include Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Mitchell Santner for MI, alongside Sunil Narine and Blessing Muzarabani for KKR, who could play decisive roles in this high-stakes clash.

29 Mar 2026 1:38 pm
Nihal Sarin Exclusive: Candidates 2026 Predictions, Anish Giri's 'Drawish' Tag, and More #Chess

Nihal Sarin Exclusive: Candidates 2026 Predictions, Anish Giri's 'Drawish' Tag, and More #Chess

29 Mar 2026 12:36 pm
Tough call: Sam Curran reveals injury that forced IPL 2026 withdrawal

England all-rounder Sam Curran has revealed his withdrawal from IPL 2026 was due to a groin injury that had been worsening. He admitted the issue, carried through the T20 World Cup, required a ough decision after scans confirmed significant damage. Curran is now focused on rehabilitation in England, with his return timeline uncertain.

29 Mar 2026 12:32 pm
Two-year ban not working: Gavaskar calls for stricter IPL pullout rules

Sunil Gavaskar has urged the BCCI to implement tougher penalties for last-minute IPL withdrawals, citing Ben Duckett's exit as evidence the current two-year ban is ineffective. Duckett's decision to prioritize England commitments, despite being picked by Delhi Capitals, has disrupted team planning and reignited calls for greater player accountability in the league.

29 Mar 2026 11:57 am
We werent disciplined: Vettori comes down hard on SRH bowlers after loss

Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach Daniel Vettori described his team's bowling effort in their IPL 2026 opener as one of our poorer performances after a six-wicket loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Despite posting 201/9, SRH struggled to contain RCB's batting, with Vettori citing missed lengths and a lack of discipline as key issues.

29 Mar 2026 11:22 am
'Return as captain': Virat Kohli urged to rethink Test retirement

Virat Kohli starred with an unbeaten 69, guiding Bengaluru to a record chase of 202 against Hyderabad. Ambati Rayudu said hes far from a finished product and should return to Tests. Hyderabad posted 201/9, but Kohli, with Padikkal and Patidar, sealed the fastest 200+ IPL chase while crossing 4000 runs in chases and surpassing Shoaib Malik.

29 Mar 2026 10:57 am
Virat Kohli surpasses Pakistan batter to become Asias top T20 run-scorer

Virat Kohli has etched his name in T20 history, becoming the Asian batter with the most runs, surpassing Shoaib Malik. Achieving this feat in the IPL opener, Kohli's unbeaten 69 guided RCB to victory. He attributed his sustained performance to careful workload management and a commitment to team success, highlighting his enduring impact on the game.

29 Mar 2026 10:44 am
Chasemaster Virat Kohli scripts IPL history, first to 4,000 in chases

Virat Kohli made history by becoming the first player to score 4000+ IPL runs in chases and surpassed Shoaib Malik in T20 runs. Sunrisers Hyderabad posted 201/9, powered by Ishan Kishans 80. In reply, Kohlis 69*, along with Devdutt Padikkal and Rajat Patidar, helped Bengaluru chase 202 in 15.4 oversthe fastest 200+ chase.

29 Mar 2026 10:24 am
'Virat Kohli was over': Kaif's post after RCB win goes viral

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.

29 Mar 2026 9:30 am
IPL: Can CSK learn to live without Dhoni? Legend set to miss up to six games

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.

29 Mar 2026 9:01 am
No words for Virat Kohli: Rajat Patidar hails RCB star after emphatic win

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.

29 Mar 2026 8:33 am