The Times of India

Mohammed Shami delivered a sensational bowling performance, dismantling Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma early in the Powerplay. His masterful skill and deception earned him two crucial wickets, setting the stage for a dominant display. Despite past injury concerns, Shami's dedication to domestic cricket has revitalized his craft, proving his enduring class.

Kolkata Knight Riders secured their first point in IPL 2026 after their match against Punjab Kings was abandoned due to rain. The game was called off after just 22 deliveries with KKR at 25 for 2. Punjab Kings now lead the table with five points from three games.

After choosing to bat first, KKR lost Finn Allen and Cameron Green early. They were 25 for 2 in 3.4 overs when rain stopped play, with captain Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi at the crease.

Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane drew sharp criticism for choosing to bat first against Punjab Kings despite a rain forecast. Experts like Anil Kumble and Ravichandran Ashwin questioned the decision, especially with an inexperienced bowling attack. The move backfired as KKR lost two early wickets before rain halted play, leaving them struggling.

KKR, in search of their first win of the season, were rocked early as Xavier Bartlett struck twice in the space of three balls.

Former cricketer Wasim Jaffer has backed Yuvraj Singh's claims of receiving poor communication regarding his retirement from then captain Virat Kohli, coach Ravi Shastri, and selectors. Yuvraj revealed he sought clarity from MS Dhoni. Jaffer criticized the management, stating big players deserve respect and clear communication about their future in the sport.

Pakistan's star pacer Naseem Shah faces scrutiny from the cricket board due to mounting fitness concerns and recent off-field conduct. Having been fined a record amount for social media comments, his latest side strain has sidelined him from the PSL, raising questions about his career trajectory and dedication. He's now set for a medical evaluation and rehabilitation.

The comment came after Multan Sultans beat Quetta Gladiators on Sunday to register their third win of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season. The team is set to return to the same venue on Monday for their next game against Rawalpindi Kings.

KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and decided to bat first at Eden Gardens.

He will be available; he had a good couple of hours of net session yesterday. He is fit and fine. Just to clarify Hardik wasnt injured, he was unwell, thats why he missed the game, Mambrey said in the pre-match press conference.

Kolkata Knight Riders' pacer Harshit Rana, sidelined for IPL 2026 due to knee surgery, is supporting his team from the stands. The young bowler, who also missed the T20 World Cup, was recently honored with a debutant award. KKR faces Punjab Kings amidst rain concerns and a search for their first win.

India's Billie Jean King Cup campaign faced setbacks with Shrivalli Bhamidipaty's back spasm and Vaidehee Chaudhari's ankle injury. Zeel Desai has joined the squad as cover, bringing depth to the team led by India No. 1 Vaishnavi Adkar. The team aims to qualify for the playoffs in this round-robin format.

The 28-year-old leg-spinner, bought at a base price of Rs 2 crore by LSG, has not undergone the mandatory fitness test required by Sri Lanka Cricket before issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to players for the IPL. Without clearing this process, his participation in the league remains uncertain.

A techie lost Rs. 1.46 lakh to an Instagram scammer selling fake IPL tickets. The fraudster promised tickets and food coupons for the RCB vs CSK match. The techie made multiple payments, even using his mother's account. Meanwhile, RCB secured a victory over CSK, setting a new IPL record.

Kolkata Knight Riders seek their first win in IPL 2026 against Punjab Kings. Rain threatens the match at Eden Gardens. A low-pressure system brings Kalbaishakhi storms. If the match is washed out, both teams get one point. A shortened game requires play to start by 10:56 pm. This follows a similar rain interruption last season.

Kevin Pietersen claims his international career was cut short due to his insistence on playing in the Indian Premier League, a decision that clashed with the England and Wales Cricket Board's stance. He believes his sacrifices paved the way for current English players to participate in lucrative franchise leagues, despite a public fallout with the board.

Vishal Uppal on Indias BJK Cup chances, tennis growth & why doubles Is more exciting than singles

India's T20 World Cup triumph sees Sanju Samson and Jasprit Bumrah nominated for ICC Player of the Month. Samson's explosive batting, including three crucial high scores, earned him Player of the Tournament. Bumrah's match-winning spells in the semi-final and final, with seven wickets in three games, also impressed. South Africa's Connor Esterhuizen completes the shortlist with a stellar T20I series.

MS Dhoni's potential return for Chennai Super Kings hinges on a crucial fitness test this week, following a calf strain. His comeback could bolster a struggling CSK side, especially with Dewald Brevis also nearing full recovery. Both players' availability for Saturday's clash against Delhi Capitals is eagerly awaited by fans.

Ambati Rayudu has slammed Chennai Super Kings' bowling strategy after their IPL 2026 defeat to RCB, citing a rigid approach and lack of adaptability. He believes CSK failed to adjust their plans when RCB posted a massive 250, particularly struggling at the death. Rayudu contrasted this with RCB's sharp control and decisive execution.

Sanju Samson is under fire from Chennai Super Kings fans amid a poor run in IPL 2026. His low scores and perceived lack of energy have drawn criticism. Coach Stephen Fleming has expressed confidence in Samson, highlighting his past success and the team's support. The team is working to integrate Samson and find winning form.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru are leading the Indian Premier League 2026 standings with a new batting strategy: preserve wickets early, then unleash aggression. Devdutt Padikkal revealed this tactical shift, emphasising lessons learned from past collapses. This approach, coupled with individual form and Tim David's explosive hitting, has powered RCB's dominant start.

Devdutt Padikkal press conference: Chinnaswamy pitch, Tim Davids power & RCBs batting strategy

Fleming explains where CSK lost the match in final 4 overs

Chennai Super Kings suffered a significant defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, marking their third consecutive loss in IPL 2026. Former player Ravichandran Ashwin expressed his disappointment with the team's struggles and his own mentally draining final season. He questioned the team's strategy in nurturing young talent and utilizing bowlers' strengths, highlighting tactical concerns amidst mounting pressure.

IPL 2026 sees early front-runners emerge with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Punjab Kings securing two wins each. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Gujarat Titans are yet to register a victory. This week's schedule features exciting clashes, including KKR vs PBKS and RR vs RCB, promising significant shifts in the standings.

Kolkata Knight Riders face early IPL 2026 struggles, with captain Ajinkya Rahane under scrutiny after two defeats. Despite a strong start, his recent form and captaincy have drawn criticism. Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has defended Rahane, highlighting his supportive leadership and pointing to bowling department limitations as the team's deeper issues.

Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming is optimistic about Dewald Brevis' return for the next game, aiming for his availability after a side strain. The team, having lost three matches, desperately needs the young batter's firepower. Fleming also highlighted Tim David's late surge as the turning point in their recent defeat, emphasizing the need for better execution.

Kolkata Knight Riders face a formidable Punjab Kings, led by former KKR star Shreyas Iyer, in a crucial IPL clash. Struggling KKR, seeking to avoid a third consecutive loss, must overcome strategic missteps and inconsistent form against a confident Punjab side. Eden Gardens is expected to host a high-scoring encounter.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a strong victory against Chennai Super Kings. Virat Kohli showed great sportsmanship towards Sarfaraz Khan. Kohli applauded Sarfaraz's fighting knock. RCB posted a high score thanks to strong batting. CSK struggled to chase the target. RCB's bowlers performed well. The win marks a significant moment for RCB.

Punjab Kings, riding a two-match winning streak, enter Monday's clash against Kolkata Knight Riders as clear favourites. KKR, still seeking their first points, grapple with bowling woes and an unsettled batting order. Injuries and the bowling limitations of their star player further complicate matters for the home side facing a formidable Punjab attack.

Michael Vaughan has voiced concerns over Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka's public interactions with players post-match, warning it could destabilize the team. These visible discussions, particularly after a loss, fuel speculation and can create an unhealthy perception of internal discord. Vaughan stressed the need for clear leadership and consistent backing of player roles to maintain team balance.

Lucknow Super Giants secured a nail-biting five-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad, thanks to Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 68. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru dominated Chennai Super Kings with a massive 250/3, powered by Tim David's explosive 70, ultimately winning by 43 runs.

Mohammed Shami's clinical 2 for 9 spell, featuring 18 dot balls, powered Lucknow Super Giants to a five-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Shami revealed his tactical shift to slower deliveries, inspired by last season's trends, was key to dismantling SRH's top order. The win was crucial for LSG to build momentum after a previous loss.

Ruturaj Gaikwad shouldered blame for Chennai Super Kings' heavy defeat, admitting his early dismissal hurt their chase. He highlighted missed opportunities, including a dropped catch of Virat Kohli, and a brutal finish from RCB's batters as key turning points. Despite a spirited fightback from his teammates, Gaikwad felt the game had already slipped away due to the poor start.

Chennai Super Kings achieved a new IPL record with their 37th score of 200 or more. This happened during their match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Despite a significant loss, CSK's batting crossed the 200-run mark. RCB posted a massive 250, powered by strong batting performances. CSK's chase fell short, highlighting the high-scoring nature of modern IPL games.

The FIDE Candidates 2026 sees a dominant Javokhir Sindarov in the Open section, while the Women's category is a 'comedy or tragedy of errors'. Indian players Vaishali Rameshbabu and Divya Deshmukh experienced mixed fortunes in Round 7, with Vaishali winning through opponent blunders and Divya failing to convert a sure win. Praggnanandhaa drew his match.

Rain threatens to disrupt Kolkata Knight Riders' crucial IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens. With a strong possibility of showers and thunderstorms, a shortened game or even a washout looms, adding to KKR's early-season pressure. Officials face a narrow window to ensure a result, potentially leading to a high-octane, brief encounter.

Defending champions RCB extended their winning streak with a 43-run victory over CSK at Chinnaswamy Stadium. After a cautious start, Phil Salt (46) and Devdutt Padikkal (50) built momentum, while Tim David (70*) and Rajat Patidar (48*) unleashed a brutal assault to reach 250/3. CSKs chase faltered early despite Sarfaraz Khans 50, and they were bowled out for 207.

Batting in the lower middle order at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, David struck eight sixes during his innings. That effort is now the joint second-highest number of sixes hit by an RCB batter from No.5 or lower in an IPL match.

James Franklin post-match PC: SRH surprised by pitch, hails Nitish-Klaasen rescue act

Shami reveals what makes this LSG team special after big win

Lucknow won by five wickets, chasing 157 with one ball to spare. Captain Rishabh Pant guided the chase after Hyderabad had put up a fight.

Kohli was batting after RCB were put in. He got an early lifeline when Shivam Dube dropped a catch. Soon after, Kohli hit Henry for a six when the ball was pitched in his hitting range, swinging across the line to clear the boundary.

The late surge came from Tim David, captain Rajat Patidar and Devdutt Padikkal, who built on the base set earlier in the innings. Padikkal scored 50 off 29 balls, David made 70 off 25 balls, while Patidar remained unbeaten on 48 off 19 balls.

Playing at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru opener went past Rohit Sharma to take his total against CSK to 1,174 runs. Kohli needed just two runs at the start of the match to break Rohits record of 1,161 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders, and reached the mark in the first over.

Mohammed Shami's exceptional opening spell choked Sunrisers Hyderabad, but a strong recovery led by Klaasen and Reddy set a competitive target. Rishabh Pant anchored Lucknow Super Giants' chase, guiding them to a thrilling five-wicket victory with a composed unbeaten half-century in the final over.

India BJK Cup team on loneliness on tour, street food, and social media abuse