The Times of India

Yashasvi Jaiswal stole the show in Rajasthan Royals IPL 2026 practice, smashing Ravindra Jadeja for a six off his first ball despite saying he hadnt slept well. Jadejas amused reaction went viral. After a poor 2025 season, RR hope such moments signal a turnaround, with new additions and young talents boosting confidence ahead of the campaign.

India Women are set for a challenging tour of South Africa, featuring a one-off Test from December 20-23 in Gqeberha and a three-match ODI series from December 9-15. This rare Test encounter, only the fourth between the sides, follows a T20I series earlier in the year. The tour aims to boost women's cricket growth.

The IPL 2026 season kicks off on March 28, with franchises finalizing their overseas player combinations. Teams are strategically selecting key international talents to bolster their squads, aiming for strong starts amidst injury concerns and last-minute withdrawals. Overseas stars will be pivotal in shaping team performances throughout the tournament.

New Zealand beat South Africa by eight wickets in the third T20, chasing 137 with ease. Tom Lathams unbeaten 63 and Devon Conways 39 led the way after bowlers restricted South Africa to 136. The visitors struggled despite a late fightback, while New Zealands calm approach secured a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

For over a decade, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers were RCBs heartbeat, yet an IPL trophy eluded them. De Villiers reflected that their shared naughty trait, wanting to win too much, was both their strength and downfall, making losses feel personal. Their intense competitiveness forged legendary partnerships but came with heavy emotional tolls, highlighting the fine line between passion and pressure.

Bangladesh cricketers' participation in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 is uncertain, awaiting government approval due to regional tensions. Six players were initially cleared by the BCB, but safety concerns have prompted a mandatory government consultation. The final decision rests with authorities, potentially impacting player availability for national duty.

Kolkata Knight Riders received a significant boost as Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed Matheesha Pathirana is fit and ready for the IPL. This eases concerns over KKR's depleted pace attack, with the young pacer cleared after recovering from a calf strain. His availability, especially as a death-over specialist, is crucial for the franchise's title aspirations.

Former CSK batter S Badrinath has expressed significant concerns for KKR ahead of IPL 2026, labeling captain Ajinkya Rahane a weak link and questioning the team's leadership and costly squad decisions. Badrinath also criticized the record Rs 25.20 crore signing of Cameron Green, citing his recent poor form and questioning his value.

Uttar Pradesh is significantly enhancing its sports infrastructure, from village grounds to international stadiums, under CM Yogi Adityanath's leadership. The state is expanding cricket venues, developing local facilities, and hosting major events to foster a vibrant sporting culture and nurture athletes from grassroots to global levels.

Despite clear long-term ambitions from coaching and selection staff, uncertainty looms over the ODI futures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. While both superstars are performing well, the Indian cricket board needs to initiate direct dialogue regarding their inclusion in the 2027 World Cup plans. This lack of clarity, in the current scenario, hurts the dressing room more than it helps promote competitiveness.

Rajasthan Royals face a significant blow for IPL 2026 as all-rounder Sam Curran is ruled out due to injury. His absence creates a void in batting and bowling, prompting the Royals to explore options like Jimmy Neesham, Josh Tongue, Gerald Coetzee, Ottneil Baartman, and Daryl Mitchell to fill the crucial all-rounder role.

Uttar Pradesh is transforming into a sports powerhouse with a comprehensive plan focusing on world-class infrastructure, education, and grassroots development. The upcoming Major Dhyan Chand State Sports University in Meerut is central to this vision, alongside a growing network of sports colleges and private academies.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan urges caution around teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's IPL 2026 hype, acknowledging his potential while highlighting upcoming challenges. Pathan believes Vaibhav's consistent scoring across formats proves his 'dum,' suggesting this season could be his breakout. Mental resilience and adaptation will be key for the 15-year-old prodigy.

Sanju Samson's long-held dream of playing alongside MS Dhoni has materialized as he joins Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2026. This move follows Samson's stellar performance, earning him Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup 2026, where he set new Indian batting records. Fans eagerly anticipate this exciting new chapter.

Uttar Pradesh is bolstering its sports sector with an ambitious incentive structure, offering substantial monetary rewards for medal winners at international and national events. The state is also prioritising job security for athletes, with over 500 securing government positions, fostering a robust sporting ecosystem.

Chennai Super Kings face a major blow as Australian pacer Nathan Ellis is ruled out of IPL 2026 with a hamstring injury. Ellis was expected to be CSK's primary death bowler, leaving a significant void. The franchise is now exploring replacements like Ottneil Baartman, Sean Abbott, Gerald Coetzee, Shamar Joseph, and Fazalhaq Farooqi.

IPL 2026 faces a challenge with numerous player injuries. Key bowlers like Harshit Rana and Nathan Ellis are out for the season. Sam Curran and Jack Edwards will also miss the entire tournament. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood will be absent for initial matches. Lockie Ferguson and Mitchell Starc's early availability is uncertain. Matheesha Pathirana is also sidelined.

It took 2,587 days for top-tier club football to return to Delhi. And then it took a while for the stands to get occupied. But when they did -- for SC Delhi vs Jamshedpur FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium -- by 6,372 fans, it was met by loud chants, dhol beats, and deafening celebrations despite rain in the air.

Pakistan cricket faces renewed criticism after a T20 World Cup exit and ODI series loss. Former opener Ahmed Shehzad alleges the PCB built up a select group of players, now failing to deliver, while neglecting accountability and player development. He claims the board's weakness empowers these stars, hindering genuine progress and leaving fans disillusioned.

Pakistan cricket faces renewed criticism after a T20 World Cup exit and ODI series loss. Former opener Ahmed Shehzad alleges the PCB built up a select group of players, now failing to deliver, while neglecting accountability and player development. He claims the board's weakness empowers these stars, hindering genuine progress and leaving fans disillusioned.

Yuzvendra Chahal is feeling healthier and more focused for the upcoming IPL season after a challenging year. He's embraced lifestyle changes, including giving up alcohol and improving his diet, to ensure peak performance. Chahal expressed confidence in Punjab Kings' renewed spirit and intact core group, aiming for better results this time around.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has stated that Shaheen Shah Afridi's current form does not warrant a place in the T20I playing XI. Latif believes Afridi must first regain his position in the team before any captaincy discussions can be considered, citing recent struggles in both T20 and ODI formats.

Rajasthan Royals usher in a new era with Riyan Parag as captain and Kumar Sangakkara as coach, aiming to rebound from a dismal last season. Parag acknowledges the void left by former captain Sanju Samson, emphasising the difficulty of replacing such a player. He also urged young prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to play freely, free from social media pressure.

Sanju Samson makes a grand entry to Chennai Super Kings, mirroring MS Dhoni's arrival after a T20 World Cup triumph. His primary challenge is to revive CSK's batting consistency and lead them back to IPL supremacy. Samson, now free from international proving pressure, aims to deliver explosive starts and handle wicketkeeping duties, learning from Dhoni himself.

Sunrisers Hyderabad faces a blow as Jack Edwards is ruled out of IPL 2026 due to injury. Australian pacer Nathan Ellis and England all-rounder Sam Curran will also miss the season with hamstring and groin issues respectively. Ishan Kishan will captain SRH in Pat Cummins' absence as they begin their campaign against RCB on March 28.

Dukes, a manufacturer that has been in operation since 1760, supplies red balls for Test and first-class cricket in England. Around 4,000 to 5,000 balls are produced for each summer season, which begins on April 3.

For former India leg-spinner Amit Mishra, the issue wasnt about Chakravarthy being decoded but about execution under pressure.

Lockie Ferguson will miss the early IPL 2026 matches for Punjab Kings to spend time with his newborn. He plans to join later. Despite managing workload, he said, I'm still very committed to play for New Zealand, and aims to feature in upcoming World Cups while supporting a future franchise league at home.

D Gukesh has faced criticism from Anatoly Karpov, who said his world title win over Ding Liren was by chance. Vladimir Kramnik also questioned the match quality. Despite this, Ding has remained calm, saying he is enjoying a quieter phase, playing casually and staying away from intense competition.

According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, Curran, who joined Rajasthan Royals (RR) from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a trade that also involved Ravindra Jadeja moving the other way and Sanju Samson heading to CSK, is in doubt for the entire season.

MS Dhoni's wife Sakshi Dhoni shared a heartfelt post for Pan Singh Dhoni, calling him the strength behind my Man's success. She praised his inspiring journey and role in shaping MS Dhoni. Meanwhile, AB de Villiers suggested Dhoni should bat higher for Chennai Super Kings or consider a mentoring role.

MS Dhoni's wife Sakshi Dhoni shared a heartfelt post for Pan Singh Dhoni, calling him the strength behind my Man's success. She praised his inspiring journey and role in shaping MS Dhoni. Meanwhile, AB de Villiers suggested Dhoni should bat higher for Chennai Super Kings or consider a mentoring role.

India will host the 2028 World Indoor Athletics Championships in Odisha, marking its first major World Athletics event. Sebastian Coe said, The future of the world indoor athletics championships is looking bright and assured. With events also planned in Ahmedabad, India is aiming to grow as a global sports hub.

The post did not mention any individual, but several users linked it to former LSG captain KL Rahul, who is no longer part of the franchise setup, while some linked it to current LSG captain Rishabh Pant.

Chennai Super Kings have suffered a setback ahead of the new IPL season, with Nathan Ellis ruled out due to injury. His absence weakens their pace attack, already missing Matheesha Pathirana. The team is yet to name a replacement, with an official saying, Yes, he is out. We have not yet decided on the replacement. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK open against Rajasthan Royals on March 30.

The 25-year-old Abhishek has built a reputation for fast starts at the top of the order with his high-risk approach. However, his starts have not always turned into big scores.

As the Indian Premier League 2026 season nears, all 10 teams have unveiled jerseys blending performance tech with cultural themes. From Royal Challengers Bengalurus champion look to fresh designs by Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings, each kit reflects identity, history and ambition, highlighting innovation and storytelling in this seasons visual evolution.

A video from the session showed Bhuvneshwar beating Kohli with a yorker that almost hit the stumps. Another clip showed Kohli responding with a six off the same bowler.

EXCLUSIVE: Where did things go wrong for India in Women's Asia Cup? Aditi Chauhan decodes

Ahmed Shehzad criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board after poor results, comparing the Pakistan Super League unfavourably with the Indian Premier League. He said PSL lacks quality and relies on a few backed players. Shehzad blamed both players and management, calling PCB weak and accusing players of avoiding responsibility during Pakistans ongoing slump.

Riyan Parag steps into full-time captaincy for Rajasthan Royals, a significant transition following Sanju Samson's departure. Parag expresses confidence in leading the team to an IPL title, emphasizing team success over individual achievements. He also indicated a flexible approach to his bowling role, prioritizing match situations and conditions as captain.

In his petition, Gambhir has named multiple social media accounts, intermediaries and e-commerce platforms as defendants. He has sought a permanent injunction to restrain them from using his name, image, voice or persona without his consent.

We will be preparing for the World Cup. We will boycott the United States but not the World Cup, Taj said in a video released by the Iranian press agency Fars News Agency on Wednesday, as cited by news agency AFP.

Former Proteas star Faf du Plessis expressed shock over Rajasthan Royals trading Sanju Samson, their decade-long icon, to Chennai Super Kings. Du Plessis highlighted Samson's status as the Royals' defining Indian player, akin to Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli. He believes Samson's departure is a significant loss for the franchise and the IPL, given his pivotal role and historic contributions.

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag acknowledged the immense void left by Sanju Samson's departure, comparing his irreplaceable talent to Virat Kohli's. Parag highlighted the team's focus on addressing last season's late-game losses and building a balanced squad with strong spin and pace options. He expressed confidence in the team's all-round strength and their ability to perform regardless of the venue.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed immense pride in Sanju Samson's Player of the Tournament performance in India's T20 World Cup triumph. Tharoor recalled an early prediction of Samson becoming the 'next Dhoni,' a sentiment later refined by Gautam Gambhir, who emphasized Samson forging his own unique path. Samson's recent match-winning innings solidified his status as a selfless and talented player.

The Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) returns for its eighth edition, set to honour India's top athletes on March 21, 2026, in Lucknow. This edition's nominations highlight exceptional performances from January 1 to December 31, 2025, with a strong representation from Uttar Pradesh athletes across various disciplines.

The Kerala High Court has dismissed a plea challenging the 'Indian Premier League' name, deeming it without merit. Meanwhile, Karnataka has greenlit the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for IPL 2026 matches, ending venue uncertainty. The 19th IPL season kicks off March 28th, with defending champions RCB facing Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru.

Arjun Tendulkar has moved to Lucknow Super Giants for the 2026 IPL season, trading Mumbai Indians for 30 lakh. In a video, he discussed his preference for heavier bats, inspired by his father Sachin Tendulkar. Arjun also revealed he trained with Yuvraj Singh immediately after his wedding, impressing Rishabh Pant with his dedication.