The Times of India

India convincingly swept aside Mongolia in the Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Group 1 tie in New Delhi. But the bigger challenge awaits a day later, against Korea, amid slim playoff qualification hopes.

Rohit Sharma completed 15 years with Mumbai Indians, a journey that began with Sachin Tendulkars backing in 2011. He went on to lead MI to five IPL titles, becoming their most successful captain. With nearly 6,000 runs and multiple records, Rohit remains central to MIs legacy and one of IPLs most iconic player-franchise stories.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's stellar IPL performances have ignited widespread debate about his imminent India debut. However, spin legend Anil Kumble advises against rushing the 15-year-old, emphasizing that time is on his side. Kumble believes Sooryavanshi is doing all the right things and will remain on selectors' radar, with his debut likely in the coming years.

Lucknow Super Giants signed George Linde to replace injured Wanindu Hasaranga for IPL 2026. Hasaranga was ruled out with a hamstring injury. Linde, an experienced all-rounder, will make his IPL debut. Tom Moody confirmed the move earlier. Under Rishabh Pant, LSG hope Linde adds balance ahead of their next match.

Sara Tendulkar went viral after smiling and staying silent when asked which team she supports ahead of LSG vs GT. Her reaction may relate to brother Arjun Tendulkar, now with LSG. The young all-rounder, son of Sachin Tendulkar, is yet to get many chances but remains a promising talent this IPL season.

India finished second at the Asian Boxing Championships 2026 with 16 medals, just behind Kazakhstan. Vishvanath Suresh led the way with gold, while Sachin won silver. The womens team topped the medal tally with 10 medals. Ajay Singh praised the squads depth, calling it a strong sign for the future of Indian boxing.

Faf du Plessis praised Mukul Choudharys unbeaten 54 that led LSG to a last-ball win over KKR, lauding his composure and power. He compared his flick shots to MS Dhoni. Du Plessis called it a season-defining win for LSG, while noting KKRs struggles, saying missed chances and poor luck are hurting them in close matches.

Billie Jean King Cup: Vaishnavi, Vishal Uppal react after Indias loss to Indonesia

Mukul Choudhary made a stunning IPL debut with an unbeaten 54 off 27 balls. His powerful hitting secured a thrilling three-wicket victory for Lucknow Super Giants against KKR. Coach Justin Langer praised Choudhary's athleticism and sharp cricketing mind. This close win provides a significant morale boost for the team early in the season.

Virat Kohli is on the verge of a significant IPL achievement. He needs just three more sixes to reach 300 in his career. This places him alongside elite batsmen like Chris Gayle and Rohit Sharma. Kohli's current form suggests this milestone could be reached soon. He has a strong record against Rajasthan Royals, his next opponent.

Lucknow Super Giants secured a nail-biting win against Kolkata Knight Riders, with debutant Mukul Choudhary starring in the chase. Despite the victory, former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif criticized Rishabh Pant's game awareness and leadership, urging the captain to take more responsibility and bat longer in crucial situations. Pant's inconsistent form was highlighted as a concern.

Table-toppers Rajasthan Royals face defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a thrilling IPL clash. Both teams aim to extend their unbeaten streaks. Key player battles, including Virat Kohli vs. Sandeep Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal vs. Jacob Duffy, are set to define this high-stakes encounter at Barsapara Cricket Stadium.

Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Rovman Powell cited an umpiring lunder and the Eden Gardens pitch as contributing factors to their last-ball defeat against Lucknow Super Giants. Rovman Powell suggested a controversial dismissal of Finn Allen should have been reviewed, while also noting the wicket was not conducive to high scores.

On Friday, Mukul Choudhary became an overnight sensation in the IPL, smashing an unbeaten 27-ball 54, including seven massive sixes, to help Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) pull off a heist against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Eden Gardens. The 21-year-old was bought by LSG for Rs 2.60 crore.

The IPL, a global entertainment powerhouse, has seen 18 thrilling seasons since its 2008 debut. Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings lead with five titles each. The article details every champion and runner-up, highlighting key final performances and the evolution of this premier T20 league.

How Justin Langers belief helped Mukul Choudhary shine

Shresta Iyer, sister of India cricketer Shreyas Iyer, removed a viral social media video after receiving threats. She stated her light-hearted banter about a washed-out match between PBKS and KKR was misunderstood. Despite clarifying her intent was supportive and not hateful, she deleted the clip to prevent negativity and urged for kindness.

Rovman Powell reacts after KKRs heartbreaking home defeat

Aston Villa secured a crucial 3-1 victory over Bologna in their Europa League quarter-final first leg, with Ollie Watkins scoring twice. Ezri Konsa opened the scoring before half-time, and despite Bologna's late goal, Watkins' second strike in stoppage time gave Villa a significant advantage heading into the second leg.

Rajasthan Royals, fueled by explosive openers Jaiswal and Sooryavanshi, face a formidable Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday. RCB boasts a strong top order led by Virat Kohli and a revitalized bowling attack. The match promises high-octane action on a batting-friendly pitch in Guwahati, with weather clearing up for the evening encounter.

Lucknow Super Giants face a significant blow as star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga is out of IPL 2026 due to injury. South African spinner George Linde is the likely replacement. Despite this setback, LSG secured a thrilling last-ball victory against KKR, with Ayush Badoni and Mukul Choudhary starring in the chase.

Babar Azam silenced critics by becoming the fastest T20 player to 12,000 runs in just 338 innings, surpassing Chris Gayle. He achieved this milestone during a dominant performance for Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL, remaining unbeaten on 87. This record-breaking feat came after Azam expressed frustration over comparisons with Virat Kohli.

Rashid Khan silenced critics with a match-winning spell for Gujarat Titans against Delhi Capitals. After two lean seasons attributed to delayed back surgery, the leg-spinner showcased his vintage form, taking 3/17 and regaining confidence. He emphasized improved fitness and rhythm as key to his resurgence.

Rajasthan Royals are enjoying a stellar season, with 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi impressing everyone, including coach Shane Bond. Opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal also shines, holding the Orange Cap. However, they face a formidable challenge against the in-form defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru, led by Virat Kohli and featuring a strong batting and bowling attack.

Prabhsimran Singh is finding clarity and confidence, attributing it to a 'big brother' mentorship from Yuvraj Singh. He's focusing on longer innings and impactful batting, aligning with the IPL's accelerated pace. Inspired by MS Dhoni's wicketkeeping, Prabhsimran is now closer to his dream of representing the senior Indian team, fueled by his India A experience.

Reigning World Champion D Gukesh faced another setback at the Menorca Masters 2026, losing to compatriot Nihal Sarin. Gukesh's early opening misstep allowed Sarin to seize the initiative, leading to a decisive kingside assault and Gukesh's resignation. This loss highlights Gukesh's current slump as he prepares for his title defense, while Sarin surges to the sole lead.

Debutante Mukul Choudhary delivered a match-winning performance, smashing an unbeaten 54 off 27 balls to secure a last-ball victory for Lucknow Super Giants against Kolkata Knight Riders. Inspired by MS Dhoni's finishing prowess, Choudhary's fearless batting showcased his ambition to emulate his idol.

Mukul Choudhary delivered a stunning match-winning performance for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026. His unbeaten 54 off 27 balls secured a dramatic three-wicket victory. This feat fulfilled a prophecy made by head coach Justin Langer. Choudhary's journey from humble beginnings to IPL hero is a testament to belief and sacrifice. His fearless approach at the crease captivated audiences.

Mukul Choudhary and Avesh Khan's record-breaking 54-run partnership for the eighth wicket secured a thrilling three-wicket victory for Lucknow Super Giants against Kolkata Knight Riders. Chasing 182, LSG were in trouble at 128/7 before Choudhary's explosive hitting, including seven sixes, and Khan's support sealed the win on the final ball, marking KKR's struggles at the death.

CD Gopinath, the last surviving member of India's historic 1952 Test win against England, passed away at 96. A natural batsman and shrewd captain, Gopinath also contributed significantly to Tamil Nadu cricket, leading them to their first Ranji Trophy title. Beyond cricket, he was an avid hunter and a skilled tennis player.

India's Vaishali Rameshbabu leads the FIDE Candidates 2026 women's section after a draw in the 10th round, showcasing impressive form. However, compatriots Divya Deshmukh and R Praggnanandhaa faced setbacks. Divya's endgame collapse likely ended her championship hopes, while Praggnanandhaa's tactical misstep against Sindarov cost him dearly, impacting India's overall challenge.

Lucknow Super Giants secured a dramatic last-ball victory against Kolkata Knight Riders, with young Mukul Choudhary scripting a sensational unbeaten 54 off 27 balls. The thrilling chase culminated in an emotional embrace between Choudhary and LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka, a moment that resonated widely and highlighted the team's burgeoning talent and spirit.

Mukul Choudhary emerged as LSGs hero with a match-winning unbeaten 54 off 27 balls in a last-ball win over KKR. Reflecting on his journey, he said, Our financial condition wasnt strong, delaying his start in cricket. Staying calm under pressure, he added, My plan was simple - I wanted to stay till the end. Known for his attacking style, he credited belief and patience, saying he always backed himself to finish the game.

Lucknow Super Giants beat Kolkata Knight Riders by three wickets in a last-ball thriller, chasing 182. KKR scored 181/4 with key knocks from Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi. In reply, Ayush Badonis 54 and Mukul Choudharys unbeaten 54 sealed the win. Despite wickets from Anukul Roy and Vaibhav Arora, KKR couldnt stop LSG in a tense finish.

Chasing 182, LSG rode on Ayush Badoni's 34-ball 54 and Mukul Choudhary's brilliant 27-ball 54 not out to cross the line in a last ball thriller.

India suffered a 0-3 loss to Indonesia in the Billie Jean King Cup after a series of missed opportunities. Vaishnavi Adkar and the doubles pair of Ankita Raina and Rutuja Bhosale let winning chances slip, while Sahaja Yamalapalli struggled against a higher-ranked opponent. Coach Vishal Uppal said, I think today was a day of missed chances, urging players to learn, improve, and keep fighting despite fading qualification hopes.

Hikaru Nakamura said he has no interest in watching Netflixs documentary on Magnus Carlsen vs Hans Niemann, citing lack of context and personal disinterest. While the film revisits their 2022 controversy, Niemann declares: Im gonna be a stone cold killer. Im going to become the best player in the world.

Former India cricketer CD Gopinath, aged 96, passed away on Thursday, ending his status as Indias oldest living Test player and the last survivor of the 1952 historic win over England. Following his death, Chandu Patankar (95) becomes the oldest living Indian Test cricketer, attributing his longevity to Gods grace.

Umpiring faced backlash in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) IPL 2026 match after Finn Allens controversial catch dismissal by Digvesh Rathi on Thursday. Fans questioned its validity, sparking debate and memes online. Despite the uproar, KKR steadied their innings, but the incident kept umpiring standards under scrutiny.

Australia all-rounder Cameron Green could soon resume bowling for Kolkata Knight Riders after being seen practising in the nets. Captain Ajinkya Rahane said his bowling improves team balance. After earlier confusion, Cricket Australia confirmed he is recovering from a back issue and gradually building workload, with a return likely soon.

Indias womens boxing team dominated the Asian Championships 2026, winning 10 medals, including four golds, with every boxer reaching the podium. Golds came from Minakshi, Preeti, Priya, and Arundhati. The mens team had mixed results, with Vishvanath Suresh and Sachin reaching finals, while others lost. India finished with the highest medal tally overall.

When we apply at least 10-innings filter, only Sunil Narine and Phil Salt have scored at a faster rate than Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi among opening pairs in IPL history. The duo have been in sensational touch this season and have fired on all cylinders in the Royals three wins in as many games.

Brazils Laura Cardoso made history by taking a record nine wickets (9/4) in a T20I against Lesotho, the best-ever figures in the format. The 21-year-old bowler surpassed Sonam Yeshey and Rohmalia Rohmalia. Brazil scored 202 before bowling Lesotho out for 13, sealing a massive 189-run win with her unforgettable spell.

An old post by Jofra Archer went viral after David Millers unbeaten 41 nearly won a tense IPL 2026 match. He brought Delhi close but refused a crucial single, leading to a final-ball run-out by Jos Buttler off Prasidh Krishna. Archers tweet, Miller mad? Cricket at 11:30, perfectly matched the late-night drama.

At that time, Yuvraj had just played a big role in Indias 2011 World Cup win, he was Player of the Tournament. During the tournament, he was dealing with fatigue, nausea and discomfort. The illness was not detected then, and he continued to play.

Bangladesh cricket is facing chaos, with off-field controversies overshadowing the sport. Aftab Ahmed criticised mismanagement, political influence, and media hype, calling it a circus. The cricket boards dissolution and a politically linked new committee added to concerns. He mocked the situation, saying its more spectacle than sport, adding: Cricket doesnt exist anymore; the circus does.

Ravichandran Ashwin expressed bewilderment at David Miller's decision to refuse a single on the penultimate ball of the chase, which led to Delhi Capitals' one-run defeat. Ashwin questioned the logic behind Miller's choice, believing it not only shook his team's confidence but also provided Gujarat Titans with a significant psychological boost.

Afghanistan's star spinner Rashid Khan is considering skipping the 2026 Test against India due to workload management post-back surgery. Doctors have advised him to avoid red-ball cricket, prioritizing his fitness for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Rashid expressed comfort in white-ball formats, emphasizing long-term career sustainability.