Jaiswal powers Royals past Mumbai Indians in 11-over thrash
The Rajasthan Royals openers added 80 runs in five overs to stun Mumbai Indians in a rain-hit game
New BCB President Tamim Iqbal Chairs First Official Meeting
Bangla National Cricket Stadium: Newly-appointed Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Tamim Iqbal on Tuesday held his first official meeting with the Boards ad-hoc executive committee at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, marking the beginning of a new administrative phase for Bangladesh cricket. The BCB is scheduled to hold its next board meeting in a few days. The new BCB president, Tamim Iqbal, arrived at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium following the dissolution of the Bangladesh Cricket Boards previous leadership, after a probe found former chief Aminul Islam guilty of corruption during the last election. Addressing the media after meeting the newly formed ad-hoc committee, Tamim stressed the urgent need to restore the boards credibility. I am sure you all understand that the damage to cricket's reputation over the last one and a half years must be corrected collectively, Iqbal told reporters. He acknowledged that criticism would persist but emphasised a shared responsibility to rebuild pride in Bangladesh cricket. There will be criticism regarding whether we perform well or not, but no one here wants cricket to remain at its current low point. We always want cricket to be a source of pride. Those who work or have worked at the BCB should take pride in saying they work here. I am not sure if that pride can currently be expressed, given the activities of the past one and a half years. We must restore that pride, he added. Highlighting the importance of respect within the system, Tamim said, Players must be respected, and every stakeholder must be respected. That will be our primary task. We will change for the better, not just in words. We will make mistakes, and our team may also make mistakes, but we will learn from them and continue to try. This is our main goal. The ad-hoc committee has been tasked by the National Sports Council to conduct elections within 90 days, a responsibility Tamim said they would carry out with integrity. We have been brought in with a responsibility to hold a free and fair election within three months. We will perform this duty with as much honesty as we can and as quickly as we can, he said. On his own participation, he remained open-ended. You would have to ask me personally (whether I will take part in the next election). I may choose to participate, or someone else may, or they may not. When a free and fair election is held, I will request everyone interested to participate. Tamim also underlined the importance of inclusivity in the electoral process. It will be a board election, including current board members, players, and organisers - everyone should participate. We aim to create an atmosphere where everyone can take part in the election. Alongside overseeing elections, the committee will manage day-to-day operations. Alongside this, we will obviously look into day-to-day activities; there are World Cup issues, as you know. We will do whatever is necessary regarding everything, he said. The ad-hoc member, Tanzil Chowdhury, confirmed that Tamim will represent Bangladesh at the upcoming ICC meetings. We have a representation from the cricket board in the ICC and ACC. Traditionally, and also by design and conduct, the President attends that. So, in our case, we have nominated our President, Tamim Iqbal. And alongside, since we are an ad-hoc committee - we are not an elected committee or board - the ICC has guided us that it would be good if the CEO is there as an ex officio position, and so we have approved that today as well, he said. Alongside overseeing elections, the committee will manage day-to-day operations. Alongside this, we will obviously look into day-to-day activities; there are World Cup issues, as you know. We will do whatever is necessary regarding everything, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Congratulations to Tamim Iqbal for becoming President of Bangladesh Cricket Board. His leadership as former cricketer will enhance the prospects of cricket in his country and overseas. @TamimOfficial28, @BCBtigers. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Jaiswal's Unbeaten 77 Helps RR Beat Mumbai Indians By 27 Runs In Rain-hit Match
Indian Premier League: Yashasvi Jaiswal hammered a half-century and raised 80 runs for the opening wicket with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi at breakneck pace as Rajasthan Royals thrashed Mumbai Indians by 27 runs in a rain-shortened 11-overs-a-side Match 13 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday. This is Rajasthan Royals' third successive win as they took the top table with six points. After Yashasvi Jaiswal hammered a sensational 77 not out off 32 balls, smashing 10 boundaries and four sixes, to help Rajasthan Royals post a mammoth 150/3, the bowlers took over as they reduced Mumbai Indians for 46/5 in the fifth over, sending back Ryan Rickelton, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and HardikPandya for single digit scores in the match, which was delayed by two-and-a-half hours because of rain. Mi failed to recover from the top-order collapse and slumped to their second successive defeat as Rajasthan bowlers did well, mixing up their deliveries. Chasing a massive target of 151, the Mumbai Indians succumbed to scoreboard pressure as they lost Ryan Rickelton (8), who hammered a six on the previous delivery, off the last ball of the first over, the South African opener miscuing Jofra Archer a mile high and was pouched by keeper Dhruv Jurel in the short third region. Suryakumar Yadav (6) paddled Nandre Burger to six of the second ball he faced and fell a legal delivery later, hitting straight down the throat of Jofra Archer at deep backward square leg as Mumbai slumped to 20/2. Sandeep Sharma pushed Mumbai Indians further into the abyss when he pinned Rohit Sharma on the crease for a plumb lbw decision, upheld by DRS, as the five-time champions were reduced to 22/3 in the third over. Sandeep got Rohit for the sixth time in IPL. With the Mumbai Indians needing 126 for 46 balls, Tilak Varma struck Tushar Deshpande for a four, as did skipper Hardik Pandya, as they scored 11 runs off the fourth over. Pandya (9) struck Ravi Bishnoi for a four and then slapped the next one straight to Jaiswal at long-on, and MI were down to 41/4. Tilak Varma smashed straight into the hands of Shimron Hetmyer at deep mid-wicket, getting out for 14 off 10 balls -- MI down to 46/5. Naman Dhir whacked Sandeep Sharma over cow corner for a six and an edged four, scoring 14 runs off the sixth over, leaving the Mumbai Indians needing 91 from 30 balls. Sherfane Rutherford hit Bishnoi for boundaries off successive balls and a couple of huge sixes off Deshpande before slicing hard to short-third, where Sandeep Sharma picks a sensational catch, inches above the ground, diving forward. That ended Mumbai's fight, and they ended at 123/9 in 11 overs, slumping to their second successive defeat. Asked to bat first, Rajasthan Royals were off to a blistering start as Yashasvi Jaiswal hammered four boundaries and a six to score 22 runs off the first over bowled by Deepak Chahar, who bowled a couple of loose deliveries, attempting to get the ball to swing. The much-anticipated face-off between the 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Jasprit Bumrah went in favour of the teenager as he whipped the seasoned pacer for two sixes -- one over mid-on and the other over deep square leg as Rajasthan Royals blasted 14 runs from the second over. Jaiswal welcomed Trent Boult with sixes off his first two balls, as the bowler strayed onto the pads on the first delivery and went down outside off on the next. A single later, Sooryavanshi hammered a big one, picking a shortish delivery off his pads to plant it into the stands over deep backward square leg as RR blazed to fifty in just 16 balls. Hardik Pandya, who returned to playing XI after missing the last match, bowled a fine over and conceded only four runs in the fourth over, but the caning of the bowlers continued as Shardul Thakur's first ball was thrashed out of the ground by Sooryavanshi. He followed the six with a four off the second and another six off the fifth ball. However, Thakur had the last laugh as he had Sooryavanshi caught by Tilak Varma, a few feet before the boundary rope, timing his jump to perfection. Sooryavanshi smashed 39 off 14 balls, hitting one four and five sixes. Dhruv Jurel (2) survived only three balls, trapped lbw by Ghazanfar with one that skidded and rapped the batter on the back pad as RR dropped to 84/2. Jaiswal continued batting in fourth gear, putting on display brilliant power-hitting as he blazed to his half-century off 23 balls with a four off a short and wide one by Pandya. He celebrated the milestone with a six off the first ball of the ninth over, bowled by Ghazanfar. Skipper Riyan Parag struck a six each off Pandya and Ghazanfar before holing out to Tilak Varma near the long-on fence, returning to the dugout after a 10-ball 20, studded with one four and two sixes. Jaiswal struck Bumrah for a six in the 10th over as the left-handed opener remained unbeaten with 77. Ghazanfar was the best MI bowler with 2-21 in two overs. Dhruv Jurel (2) survived only three balls, trapped lbw by Ghazanfar with one that skidded and rapped the batter on the back pad as RR dropped to 84/2. Jaiswal continued batting in fourth gear, putting on display brilliant power-hitting as he blazed to his half-century off 23 balls with a four off a short and wide one by Pandya. He celebrated the milestone with a six off the first ball of the ninth over, bowled by Ghazanfar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals 150/3 in 11 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 77 not out, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 39; Am Ghazandar 2-21) beat Mumbai Indians 123/9 in 11 overs (Naman Dhir 25, Sherfane Rutherford 25; Nandre Burger 2-21, Sandeep Sharma 2-26, Ravi Bishnoi 2-25) by 27 runs Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Jaiswal's Unbeaten 77 Helps RR Post 150/3 Against MI In Rain-reduced Match
Indian Premier League: Yashasvi Jaiswal hammered a half-century off 23 balls as Rajasthan Royals posted a mammoth 150/3 against Mumbai Indians in a rain-shortened 11-overs-a-side Match 13 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday. Jaiswal was in sensational form as he blazed to 77 not out off 32 balls, smashing 10 boundaries and four sixes while teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi blasted 39 off 14 balls as Rajasthan Royals posted a massive score for the Mumbai Indians in the match, which was delayed by two-and-a-half hours because of rain. Asked to bat first, Rajasthan Royals were off to a rousing start as Yashasvi Jaiswal hammered four boundaries and a six to score 22 runs off the first over bowled by Deepak Chahar, who bowled a couple of loose deliveries, attempting to get the ball to swing. The much-anticipated face-off between the 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Jasprit Bumrah went in favour of the teenager as he whipped the seasoned pacer for two sixes -- one over mid-on and the other over deep square leg as Rajasthan Royals blasted 14 runs from the second over. Jaiswal welcomed Trent Boult with sixes off his first two balls, as the bowler strayed onto the pads on the first delivery and went down outside off on the next. A single later, Sooryavanshi hammered a big one, picking a shortish delivery off his pads to plant it into the stands over deep backward square leg as RR blazed to fifty in just 16 balls. Hardik Pandya, who returned to playing XI after missing the last match, bowled a fine over and conceded only four runs in the fourth over, but the caning of the bowlers continued as Shardul Thakur's first ball was thrashed out of the ground by Sooryavanshi. He followed the six with a four off the second and another six off the fifth ball. However, Thakur had the last laugh as he had Sooryavanshi caught by Tilak Varma, a few feet before the boundary rope, timing his jump to perfection. Sooryavanshi smashed 39 off 14 balls, hitting one four and five sixes. Dhruv Jurel (2) survived only three balls, trapped lbw by Ghazanfar with one that skidded and rapped the batter on the back pad as RR dropped to 84/2. Jaiswal continued batting in fourth gear, putting on display brilliant power-hitting as he blazed to his half-century off 23 balls with a four off a short and wide one by Pandya. He celebrated the milestone with a six off the first ball of the ninth over, bowled by Ghazanfar. Skipper Riyan Parag struck a six each off Pandya and Ghazanfar before holing out to Tilak Varma near the long-on fence, returning to the dugout after a 10-ball 20, studded with one four and two sixes. Jaiswal struck Bumrah for a six in the 10th over as the left-handed opener remained unbeaten with 77. Ghazanfar was the best MI bowler with 2-21 in two overs. Dhruv Jurel (2) survived only three balls, trapped lbw by Ghazanfar with one that skidded and rapped the batter on the back pad as RR dropped to 84/2. Jaiswal continued batting in fourth gear, putting on display brilliant power-hitting as he blazed to his half-century off 23 balls with a four off a short and wide one by Pandya. He celebrated the milestone with a six off the first ball of the ninth over, bowled by Ghazanfar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals 150/3 in 11 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 77 not out, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 39; Am Ghazandar 2-21) against Mumbai Indians Article Source: IANS
'Serious abuse of power' - Bangladesh government comes down hard on BCB's October elections
The election process was not free, fair or transparent, NSC sports director Ahesan said
Hardik returns as MI bowl in 11-overs-a-side contest
MI also brought back Trent Boult and AM Ghazanfar
Indian Premier League: Match 13 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians will be an 11-overs-per-side affair with the toss scheduled for 9:55 pm after heavy to persistent rain delayed the match more than two hours. The powerplay will be for 3.2 overs (20 deliveries), one bowler will get to bowl three overs. There will be a 10-minute break between the two innings. The match to be played at the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) Stadium in Barsapara in Guwahati on Tuesday was delayed because of the rain that lashed the stadium from early in the afternoon. The rain finally stopped around 9.20 pm, with the players and match officials walking out to check things. Though the drizzle had picked up slightly in intensity past 7.30 pm, the scheduled start time of the match, the ground staff has removed covers from the side wickets and are working hard to make the field of play ready for the match. The covers have not been removed fully, though the super sopper was out in the field, taking off the extra rainwater from the field before it is made ready for the match. The match officials will soon be taking a call on when to conduct the toss, and no overs will be lost if the match starts before 8.30 pm. This is the Rajasthan Royals' second 'home' match at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. They have won both their matches so far and are hoping to remain unbeaten by winning their third match. The Mumbai Indians have won their opening match against the Kolkata Knight Riders but lost the next one to the Delhi Capitals. The five-time champions will be hoping to get back on the winning track. This is the Rajasthan Royals' second 'home' match at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. They have won both their matches so far and are hoping to remain unbeaten by winning their third match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sooryavanshi has already caught the eye because of his sensational stroke play and big hitting as he has hammered 30 sixes so far in the Indian Premier League, 20 of them coming for pace bowlers. Article Source: IANS
The Mumbai Cricket Association: The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) will unveil the Ravi Shastri Stand and dedicate stadium gates in the memory of former India stars Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, honouring four of Mumbai and Indias most distinguished cricketing figures. The unveiling ceremony will be graced by the Honourable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis. MCA President Ajinkya Naik will also be present, alongside Apex Council members, office bearers, and members of the cricketing fraternity. The decision to honour these legends was approved by the MCA Apex Council at its meeting held in February. As part of the initiative, the Level 1 Stand below the Press Box at the Wankhede Stadium will be named after former India captain and renowned commentator Ravi Shastri, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Mumbai and Indian cricket as a player, leader, and coach. In addition, Gate No. 3, Gate No. 5, and Gate No. 6 will be formally unveiled as the Dilip Sardesai Gate, Diana Edulji Gate, and Eknath Solkar Gate, respectively, paying tribute to Mumbai stalwarts who have made a lasting impact on Indian cricket, the MCA informed in a release on Tuesday. MCA President Ajinkya Naik said: This ceremony marks a proud moment for Mumbai cricket as we come together on 9th April to honour these iconic figures. The unveiling of the Ravi Shastri Stand, along with the dedication of stadium gates to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji, reflects our deep respect for their invaluable contributions. We look forward to celebrating their legacy at Wankhede Stadium while inspiring future generations to uphold the same values and strive for greatness. In addition, Gate No. 3, Gate No. 5, and Gate No. 6 will be formally unveiled as the Dilip Sardesai Gate, Diana Edulji Gate, and Eknath Solkar Gate, respectively, paying tribute to Mumbai stalwarts who have made a lasting impact on Indian cricket, the MCA informed in a release on Tuesday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In May 2025, the MCA unveiled a stand in the name of former India captain and T20 World Cup-winner Rohit Sharma. There are stands dedicated to Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengarkar, and Sachin Tendulkar, while Gates have been named after stalwarts like Polly Umrigar and Vinoo Mankad Article Source: IANS
Talks on for Africa T20 Cup along the lines of Asia Cup
While CSA is keen on the idea in principle, it needs space in its own calendar to be able to send a first-choice South Africa team
Billie Jean King Cup | Vaishnavi goes down tamely as India trails against Thailand
The countrys top-ranked player was guilty of several unforced errors and could not counterAnchisasserves and returns with conviction
Alana King Reclaims No.1 Spot In ICC Women's ODI Bowling Rankings
ODI Bowling Rankings: Australia leg-spinner Alana King reclaimed the top spot in the ICC Womens ODI Bowling Rankings within four days of losing it as she took a remarkable five for 19 to overtake England spinner Sophie Ecclestone and move up in the list. Kings spell, along with Phoebe Litchfields 68 not out (56 balls), helped Australia to a nine-wicket win and a 3-0 series victory over the West Indies. Litchfields unbeaten 87-run, second-wicket partnership with Ellyse Perry (33 not out off 40 deliveries) saw her remain steady in fifth place in the ODI Batting Rankings, but she crossed the 700 rating points mark for the first time. Perrys contributions moved her two slots to re-enter the top 10 from 12th place last week. In Wellington, New Zealand captain Amelia Kerr smashed an unbeaten 139-ball 179 to help her side to a record-breaking, series-levelling chase of 350 for eight in the second ODI against South Africa. Her heroics were enough to lift her six slots to joint 14th place in the ODI Batting Rankings alongside Pakistans Sidra Amin. In their successful series decider, the White Ferns Maddy Green was the architect of her teams success, striking an unbeaten 141 from 128 deliveries to beat the Proteas by 66 runs. Her performance advanced her four spaces to a career-best ninth place in the batters list, her first appearance in the top 10, the ICC said in a release on Tuesday. Finally, South Africas Ayabonga Khaka, the leading wicket-taker of the series, has jumped five places to number 12. New Zealand, who bounced back from their opening loss to take their ICC Womens Championship series against South Africa 2-1, have taken the top position in the table with 10 points from six matches. Finally, South Africas Ayabonga Khaka, the leading wicket-taker of the series, has jumped five places to number 12. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The West Indies are currently in sixth place with just one win from the six matches they have played so far. With four teams yet to play in the tournament, they might be feeling some pressure with only the top seven-ranked teams plus the hosts qualifying automatically for the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2029. Article Source: IANS
Chamari Athapaththu not retiring anytime soon, says Sri Lanka's new coach Jamie Siddons
The new Sri Lanka women's coach wants the team to start playing an aggressive brand of T20 cricket
Pakistan Star Fakhar Zaman Denies Retiring From T20I Format: Report
T20I World Cup: Dashing Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman, serving a two-match ban in Pakistan Super League (PSL), has denied reports that he will be retiring from T20 internationals as he is considering migrating to the United States, a news report said on Tuesday. There were reports and claims on social media that Fakhar, who turns 36 on Friday, has shifted his family to the USA and will retire from T20Is. He has also been plagued with fitness issues, including hormone issues, which cause frequent injuries. Fakhar is not at all retiring, and this he has conveyed to the Pakistan Cricket Board and the selection committee, nor is he leaving Pakistan, sources close to the cricketer told Telecom Asia Sport on Tuesday. The star batter played just two matches in the T20I World Cup, scoring 25 and 84 with aggression and no hint of fitness issues. But he had to withdraw from the ODI squad for the Bangladesh tour due to fitness issues. Those issues revived reports that he will quit T20Is in order to concentrate on the 50-over format. Pakistan will not play a T20I until October when they host Sri Lanka, while their next ODI series will be at home against Australia in May-June this year. Fakhar is determined to play the 2028 T20I World Cup and is working on his fitness as well, and before that wishes to represent the country in the Los Angeles Olympics as Pakistan is likely to get a berth alongside India, sources told www.telecomasia.net. Pakistan will not play a T20I until October when they host Sri Lanka, while their next ODI series will be at home against Australia in May-June this year. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The match referee rejected his clarification, while a three-man PCB committee upheld the ban after a hearing. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Lungi Ngidi Is Easy To Handle, Knows His Bowling Areas Well, Says Munaf Patel
T20 World Cup: Delhi Capitals (DC) bowling coach Munaf Patel has lavished praise on South Africa fast bowler Lungi Ngidi, describing him as a smart, self-aware bowler who understands Indian conditions well and is among the easiest overseas players to work with in the dressing room. Ngidi has filled the void left by Mitchell Starcs absence so far by relying on his deceptive slower balls, which dip late to fox batters. An instance of this was seen in DCs six-wicket win over the Mumbai Indians, where Ngidi trapped Suryakumar Yadav lbw for 51, when he just looked to accelerate. Ngidis slower balls have fetched him 11 wickets at a tight economy rate of 6.8 and a strike rate of 14. If you want to become a good bowler in today's era, then you will have to bring good variations. So he has slower balls and continues to play for South Africa. He has also played in this years Mens T20 World Cup in India. So he has ideas of bowling on these wickets. He has been in the IPL for a long time and with other teams. He was there last year as well. So he has an idea of bowling his variations as per conditions and Indian wickets. He is not like other bowlers, who try to bowl 150 kmph and get hit. He stays in his own area, and whenever there is a need for variations, he uses his own slower ones or yorkers, said Munaf in the pre-match press conference, ahead of DC taking on Gujarat Titans at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday. Munaf, who played 13 Tests, 70 ODIs, and three T20Is for India, also spoke of the close working relationship he has built with Ngidi at DC. If we talk about Lungi, he is a good bowler in his area. He is a very good bowler for his own bowling - I can tell you this. I talk to him every day, because my job is to talk to the bowler, and to satisfy him or to add more to his armoury if there is anything, like a slower one or a yorker. Lungi is a good person; he is easy to handle. He is not like other foreigners, who are difficult to handle, he said. Turning to left-arm seamer T Natarajan, whos done well with slower balls at the back end, Munaf said his work with Natarajan during the IPL window is focused squarely on reinforcing the pacer's strengths. I believe that you will have to do more bowling. He was injured only last year. He was playing day cricket and one-day cricket. But the injury he had was prolonged. Because of that, he was not able to play, neither on days nor on one day. That is why he has decided, for now, that he will only play T20. But I think that in the next year, he will play days and one-day games, according to how he is bowling. I don't work with him the whole year because he plays domestically from there, and he works with his coaches. But in these 2-3 months, I work on bowling only because we have trainers who work on his fitness. I always ask him to bowl as per his own strengths. He has slower ones and yorkers; he is a specialist in death overs. So I do the work on where his speciality is, he said. On Mukesh Kumar, Munaf said the Indian pacer has shown clear improvement after working specifically on his new-ball discipline. I have been working with Mukesh for the last few months because he had a problem with the line and length last year. A lot of people questioned it. Whenever you play, your new ball will be 100 per cent better, and the test match length will be good. So I work with Mukesh on the same variation, and I work more on using the new ball well because he is mainly a new-ball bowler. A new ball bowler will have to put more overs in the power play or put more overs in between. So I always expect him to play as a main bowler, he said. Munaf also outlined his clear-eyed view of what separates winning and losing sides in T20 cricket, which is placing enormous value on picking wickets in the powerplay, something which DC have done well so far. I see T20 cricket in one way - if you take wickets in six overs, no team will get to 200. When the partnership is good and that six-over phase in power-play is used well, then you can cross 200; otherwise, you can't. Now I can say that all the teams that are stopping under 200, it is just that the power play is very important. If two to three wickets are taken out and you are able to keep them to 40-42 runs, then it is very difficult to go to 200 unless you are bowling very badly in the last six overs. So I don't think that if any team uses power play well, they would let them cross 200, he said. In his role as bowling coach, Munaf, a member of Indias 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team, said his job is more about guiding bowlers rather than dictating terms. My work is to make them understand and get them to bowl according to their plans. Basically, most of the work is done by the bowlers. For example, how to read the batsman or bowl Test match lengths. But when to bowl, how much to bowl, they have to understand according to the situation. You cannot bowl continuously in the same way, even if you are getting hit - it is not possible to do that. In between, if you are getting swing on the new ball, you can bowl longer. If you are not getting a new ball, then you have to come to your variations, he said. Spelling out his broader coaching philosophy, Munaf noted that international bowlers require far less handholding than their domestic counterparts. Talking to the players is 100 per cent important. You have to guide them and chat about the wicket conditions. Just like Lungi Ngidi, who comes from South Africa, but yes, he has played the World Cup before. But when to bowl, how much to bowl, they have to understand according to the situation. You cannot bowl continuously in the same way, even if you are getting hit - it is not possible to do that. In between, if you are getting swing on the new ball, you can bowl longer. If you are not getting a new ball, then you have to come to your variations, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You do not have to spend too much time with international bowlers, but with domestic players, you tell them how to handle pressure and how to bowl in the first six and the last six overs. Whereas internationals already know how to manage these situations. It is great that Axar is an all-rounder. Both Kuldeep and Axar are there to guide the likes of Vipraj Nigam when playing in the middle overs, and that helps, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Alana King regains No. 1 spot in ODI bowling rankings
Australia legspinner retakes the top spot from Sophie Ecclestone
IPL 2026: Rain Delays Start Of Match 13 Between Rajasthan Royals And Mumbai Indians
Assam Cricket Association: The start of Rajasthan Royals' clash with Mumbai Indians has been delayed because of rain, which lashed the city for around three hours since early afternoon, forcing the ground staff to deploy the heavy covers at the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) Stadium in Barsapara in Guwahati on Tuesday. Though the drizzle had picked up slightly in intensity past 7.30 pm, the scheduled start time of the match, the ground staff has removed covers from the side wickets and are working hard to make the field of play ready for the match. The covers have not been removed fully, though the super sopper was out in the field, taking off the extra rainwater from the field before it is made ready for the match. The match officials will soon be taking a call on when to conduct the toss, and no overs will be lost if the match starts before 8.30 pm. This is the Rajasthan Royals' second 'home' match at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. They have won both their matches so far and are hoping to remain unbeaten by winning their third match. The Mumbai Indians have won their opening match against the Kolkata Knight Riders but lost the next one to the Delhi Capitals. The five-time champions will be hoping to get back on the winning track. The clash between Rajasthan Royals, the winner of the inaugural edition, and Mumbai Indians is being eagerly awaited because it pits India's best pace bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, against the young turk, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the 15-year-old from Bihar who has already proved his potential with brilliant stroke play, scoring a century. The Mumbai Indians have won their opening match against the Kolkata Knight Riders but lost the next one to the Delhi Capitals. The five-time champions will be hoping to get back on the winning track. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the 15-year-old from Samastipur tackles pace spearhead, Bumrah. But rain has put that match-up on hold as of now. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: No Update Yet On Mitchell Starc's Arrival, Says DC Bowling Coach Munaf Patel
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Delhi Capitals (DC) bowling coach Munaf Patel said there is still no clarity on when Australia left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc will join the franchise for IPL 2026, even as the Axar Patel-led side have won both of their matches without him. Ahead of IPL 2026 season, DC had said they were awaiting a word on the NoC for Starc, who would miss the initial few matches due to his workload being managed by Cricket Australia (CA), keeping the international schedule in mind. But days later, it emerged that Starc is currently recovering from shoulder and elbow injuries. I ask people around everyday, about the timing of his arrival and by when he is coming and what the details are because he is important for us, as a main bowler. Actually I also have the same question everyday. Till now there is no update on when he will come because the update will come from the Australian board, his physio, or trainer, said Munaf in the pre-match press conference on Tuesday. DC have won both of their matches so far in this season in Starc's absence and are aiming to complete a hat-trick of wins when they take on a winless Gujarat Titans at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday. Munaf, a member of Indias 2011 Mens ODI World Cup winning team, left no doubt about Starc's stature in the IPL, adding that hes in a league of his own alongside India's ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah. DC have won both of their matches so far in this season in Starc's absence and are aiming to complete a hat-trick of wins when they take on a winless Gujarat Titans at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But your big bowler is obviously a big bowler. I don't think there is a bigger bowler than Starc in the entire IPL. There is only Bumrah, who you can compare with because you can see how much experience he has, how hard he can bowl. He can swing with a new ball at 140-plus - so that will be a different thing. That we are winning, and you are not remembering him, is a different thing, he added. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Shubman Gill To Play In GT's Clash Against DC, Confirms Sai Sudharsan
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Shubman Gill will be available for the team's upcoming IPL 2026 against Delhi Capitals (DC), to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday, confirmed his opening partner B Sai Sudharsan. Gill missed GTs clash against Rajasthan Royals, which they lost by six runs in Ahmedabad, due to a muscle spasm. Shubman has no problem. He is completely fine, he will be fine. Of course, yes (he will open), said Sudharsan in the pre-match press conference. Gill's availability comes as a major boost for IPL 2022 winners GT, who are yet to open their account in the ongoing tournament after consecutive defeats. Sudharsan, however, expressed confidence in the team's ability to bounce back, especially in their middle order batters. I think it is a mixture of both - as opening batters and top three batters, if someone plays longer, it is always a great thing for the team. I think we believe in our middle order, they will (come good). This is the team which you know in which we played last year and we qualified. So it is just two games and I believe and the whole team believes that we will definitely have a great middle order and win games. IPL is such a tournament where in two-three days when you keep on playing matches, momentum is one of the important things in the tournament. Yes, we look back on these 2 games and we have learnt a lot for sure and I think we will look forward to doing that, so that we get our first win and get the momentum back, he said. Left-handed opener Sudharsan has made 86 runs in two games so far and was the leading run-getter in IPL 2025. He further stated that he is always working hard to evolve his batting as per the fast-growing demands of T20 cricket. I think I do not look at it as a different tournament. Wherever I play, whatever matches I play, the preparation is very similar and the effort or the hard work behind it is very similar. I am just grateful and lucky enough to execute it here. Definitely as the sport is evolving and the T20 batting is getting greater and greater every season or even every 5-6 months if you can see, it is very important for me to learn from it and be versatile enough to have that in my kitty and equip myself with that. So definitely there are improvements to be made and of course, I am looking at it. Sudharsan also shed light on his mental preparation routine, which he said plays a decisive role in his performances. In most of the part is mental preparation, I think once the pre-season camp is over, I think it is all about fine tuning and having your thoughts clear and having your mind sorted and organised is the biggest thing. I put a lot of time on that - I do yoga, meditation, and visualisation to keep myself mentally fit. Elaborating on GTs batting approach at the top of the order, Sudharsan stressed on reading conditions and building a platform rather than going all guns blazing from the word go. It is important to understand what is required on this wicket to do and then what is required for our team to have a very good start so that our middle order or the lower order have a very good platform to launch in the last four-five overs. Sudharsan also shed light on his mental preparation routine, which he said plays a decisive role in his performances. In most of the part is mental preparation, I think once the pre-season camp is over, I think it is all about fine tuning and having your thoughts clear and having your mind sorted and organised is the biggest thing. I put a lot of time on that - I do yoga, meditation, and visualisation to keep myself mentally fit. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We are assessing the conditions when we see what is required on this wicket and which will be the best score for our bowling team to defend or let's say if we are chasing what will be the best six overs we can have if we have to have a very good last five overs of platform, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Gill set to return as winless GT meet unbeaten DC
Weather could have an influence on the contest, with Delhi experiencing unseasonal rain
Warner charged with drink driving in Sydney
Currently involved in the PSL, Warner had gone to Australia during a week-long break in fixtures for Karachi Kings
T20 World Cup: Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya emphasised the importance of quality over quantity in training, advising youngsters to focus on practising right rather than simply spending long hours, while also highlighting the need to stay adaptable and react effectively during match situations. Speaking about preparation and mindset, the Mumbai Indians skipper underlined that performance on the field is shaped well before a player steps into a game, stressing the value of intent during practice sessions. I think it comes how well you prepare, what your intent is during your preparation. I think that's a very important lesson to all the youngsters that in the game you don't decide what you're going to do. In the game you just react to what's going to come to you, he said in a video shared by IPL. Expanding on this, Pandya pointed out that the ability to respond effectively under pressure is rooted in the quality of preparation, rather than the duration of practice. And for you to react the best in your capacity, you need to really spend a good amount of hours here by practising right, not practising long. See, confidence is that I can do this. Overconfidence is that only I can do this, the all-rounder added. The two-time T20 World Cup-winning champion also spoke about focusing on factors within ones control, noting that outcomes in a match are often unpredictable despite thorough preparation, as he said, I think it's about controlling the controllables. What happens in the game, how well I'll do, what I'll do is, to be very honest, not in my hand. It's always good to back yourself but always be mindful of taking the right advice. Highlighting the importance of humility and continuous learning, Pandya urged young players to remain open to guidance and patient in their journey. Hearing people out and you never stop learning, I think that's the difference. The fine line is only crossed when you think that you know everything. People have to remember and especially all the youngsters as well that good things take time, so have patience, he said. He further elaborated on the perception of confidence and swag, explaining that what is often seen externally reflects deep-rooted preparation and mindset. There's terms between swag, there's terms between confidence but that sheer comes through hard work, that sheer comes through the preparation, that's the mindset which I have over the years got myself into and that just translates into my body language because I am confident due to the fact that I have prepared really well. The outer layer to people and what people see is maybe swag but I think the inner, deeper definition for that is just the mindset. I believe I am the best in this world, he explained. He further elaborated on the perception of confidence and swag, explaining that what is often seen externally reflects deep-rooted preparation and mindset. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When I enter the field, I have no doubt that I am here to win the game, I have no doubt I am here to do something magical. I think that mindset of winning, that mindset of being selfless, that mindset of making sure that you put your team forward, that has helped me to have that confidence, to have that mindset, have that attitude and it turns out it looks cool as well. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh government appoints Tamim as new BCB president
He will lead an 11-member ad-hoc committee that includes former Bangladesh captain Minhajul Abedin and commentator Athar Ali Khan
IPL 2026: 'Why Engage In Fights, Keep Quite,' Says Sehwag On Rahane's 'jealousy' Remark
Kolkata Knight Riders: Virender Sehwag has advised players to avoid unnecessary confrontations in response to Ajinkya Rahanes jealousy remark about critics during IPL 2026. The former India opener suggested that engaging in such exchanges serves little purpose, especially as scrutiny intensifies around Kolkata Knight Riders amid their winless start to the season. Rahane, leading KKR through a difficult phase with back-to-back defeats, appeared visibly displeased when questioned about his strike rate in a press conference. His response, labelling critics as jealous drew attention for its sharp tone, marking a departure from his typically composed public persona. Earlier, after KKRs campaign opener, Rahane handled a query on why Cameron Green was not being used as a bowler with far more restraint, indicating that the matter was influenced by directives from Cricket Australia. Sehwag believed that response but pointed out the inconsistency in tone. I don't think players should say all of this. I know he is the captain and he was asked why Cameron Green isn't bowling. He didn't have a straight answer for that, so he said to ask Cricket Australia, Sehwag told Cricbuzz. I can understand that. But if someone is questioning my strike rate or batting style, people will praise you and criticise you, but you have to be neutral with both. Why is there a need to engage in such fights? he asked. Drawing on examples of icons renowned for their composure, Sehwag emphasised that silence often speaks louder than rebuttals. He pointed to figures like former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, who rarely respond directly to criticism despite facing intense public scrutiny. I can understand that. But if someone is questioning my strike rate or batting style, people will praise you and criticise you, but you have to be neutral with both. Why is there a need to engage in such fights? he asked. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, I feel one should keep quiet. Score a century and everyone will be quiet. Keep calm and do your work. What else? I don't think these things require an answer, he opined. Article Source: IANS
Top 5 Youngsters Who Stole The Spotlight In IPL 2026 So Far
The ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has so far belonged to a fearless new generation of cricketers who have made an immediate impact with bat, ball and in the field. In just the first 11 matches of the season, several young stars have stepped into the spotlight, underlining the leagues growing reputation as a platform where emerging talent thrives under pressure. Among the standout performers are Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sameer Rizvi, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Prince Yadav and Harsh Dubey, all of whom have played crucial roles for their respective franchises with performances that are ahead of their age and experience. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: The teenage sensation from Bihar has continued his meteoric rise after impressing in age-group and domestic cricket. Carrying his form from recent international youth tournaments into the IPL, he has amassed 252 runs in just seven matches at a staggering strike rate of over 200. His campaign in IPL 2026 began with a blistering 15-ball half-century against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), followed by another explosive innings against Gujarat Titans, setting the tone for the Rajasthan Royals strong start. Sameer Rizvi: Rizvi, who first made headlines in the UP T20 League, has scripted a remarkable comeback after a quiet stint in IPL 2024. Picked up by Delhi Capitals (DC) in the mega auction, the middle-order batter has seized his opportunities this season with back-to-back match-winning performances under pressure. Despite not being a regular starter initially, his consistency has now cemented his place in the playing XI. He scored 70 runs against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the team's first match and then played a match winning 90 runs knock against the Mumbai Indians. Angkrish Raghuvanshi: For Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Raghuvanshi has emerged as a bright spark in an otherwise mixed start to the season. The Mumbai youngster has impressed with successive half-centuries at the top of the order and has also taken on wicketkeeping responsibilities, highlighting the team managements confidence in his all-round abilities. Despite not being a regular starter initially, his consistency has now cemented his place in the playing XI. He scored 70 runs against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the team's first match and then played a match winning 90 runs knock against the Mumbai Indians. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harsh Dubey: Sunrisers Hyderabads (SRH) Dubey has made a seamless transition to IPL cricket. The Vidarbha all-rounder has been effective in the Powerplay, controlling the run rate while picking up important wickets. Trusted by skipper Ishan Kishan, Dubey has also contributed with the bat, providing valuable runs in the lower order to bolster his teams totals. He has taken five wickets in three matches. Article Source: IANS
Heinrich Klaasen Praises Ishan Kishans Captaincy as SRH Eye Momentum in IPL 2026
Sunrisers Hyderabad big-hitting batter Heinrich Klaasen has lavished praise on skipper Ishan Kishan, calling him a superb captain and adding the way the side responds to the young wicketkeeper-batter has been just phenomenal, apart from his calmness in decision making and willingness to lean on experienced players in the set-up. Kishan was named as SRHs interim captain due to regular skipper Pat Cummins being unavailable for the initial part owing to his recovery from a lumbar stress issue. Under him, SRH have won one match while losing two games and are at fifth place on the points table. Look, I think he's been superb so far. He's a guy who does ask for advice. Like I said, we've got a lot of experience in the change room. So he leans on that as well. But his decision-making, the way he changes the bowlers, the way the team listens to him is just phenomenal so far. So like I said, we're in superb hands, and he's luckily not an arrogant guy at all, which makes it a lot easier. He's a really enjoyable captain to play under. So there's a lot of jokes in between to make it not so serious, because I think this environment can really be a tough environment to play under. I think he's been superb, and he had some success in the domestic scene as well. I think his domestic team won a competition (Jharkhand won Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy under his captaincy). So there's a lot of experience in that aspect. But so far, I really do enjoy his captaincy, and he's been incredible so far, said Klaasen, while replying to a query from IANS in the JioStar Press Room ahead of IPL 2026 Rivalry Week. Despite SRH losing two games this season, Klaasen said his own form 145 runs in three games, including two half-centuries - have given him personal satisfaction, particularly given his limited game time after retiring from international cricket and playing only franchise T20 leagues. Unfortunately, we've lost two games. But on a personal note, it's been a good start, especially because one of my biggest concerns is not playing as much cricket as I used to. Also, it's to see if I can still keep up with the standard that I set myself with. So, pretty good start for me, and hopefully this form will continue, he said. After playing against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh, 2016 IPL champions SRH will play three games on the trot at their home venue against Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. The clash against CSK, the five-time champions who are yet to get off the mark in the points table, will be of huge interest and Klaasen acknowledged the fixture carries added significance. Look, it's always fun playing against them, and knowing that our owners are also coming from Chennai, they do put an emphasis on that we need to win over them or beat them. So there will always be added pressure on that game, but it's still a good game. All the teams that you have to play in the IPL, you have to be at your best and put your best performance in the game. So hopefully we can get that little bit of momentum going into the next game and then face Chennai back home. The wicket hopefully will be a little bit better, and then if we can get one over them going into their home ground, I think we should be in a good position to take them down this season, he elaborated. Klaasen also talked about the tactical challenge of facing spinners from opposition teams who have clearly studied his game closely. The boundaries are not the biggest in the world. We're used to some big boundaries as well. But the wickets are fantastic. So, it's a nice place to come back in. But it's still a big challenge. I know they're coming for me and they know I'm coming for them. I see this season they've got a couple of game plans. So, I need to get back on to doing some good homework against them and finding new ways of scoring against them, he said. On the toughest spinner hes faced in his IPL career, Klaasen named senior leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal without any hesitation. It's an easy answer Yuzi Chahal. We've come a long way. We've had some great battles over the last couple of years, especially in my career. He's a quality bowler, a very clever bowler. I think we're about 50-50 on winning those battles. He's a good mate of mine as well, so it makes it even better just to fight against him on the pitch, he said. The hard-hitting batter signed off by calling the IPL the pinnacle competition in franchise T20 cricket. It's by far the toughest franchise cricket competition that there is. I feel sometimes it's tougher than international cricket. It also depends on who you play. But the standard of cricket and obviously the conditions play a big part of it. Every year you just see a new Indian player coming out that you never know about, and you just keep on producing the goods. So the talent that they've got, it just sets the standard so high. The hard-hitting batter signed off by calling the IPL the pinnacle competition in franchise T20 cricket. It's by far the toughest franchise cricket competition that there is. I feel sometimes it's tougher than international cricket. It also depends on who you play. But the standard of cricket and obviously the conditions play a big part of it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch TATA IPL 2026's Rivalry Week, April 12-18, LIVE and Exclusive on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network Article Source: IANS
DC vs GT Match 14, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
DC vs GTMatch 14, Cricket Tips :There have been several youngsters who have impressed everyone in the IPL 2026. Sameer Rizvi is surely one of them. Delhi Capitals have found a match-winner with the bat, who has scored 70* and 90 in two innings to take DC over the line. That has helped DC to start well, and they will aim to make it three in a row. DC will face the 2022 winner Gujarat Titans in the next game. This contest will be held at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday at 7:30 PM IST. GT have suffered two straight wins and are struggling to earn their first points. Captain Shubman Gill wasn't fit for the last game. So, they are going through a lot and need to execute their plans well to get a win. DC vs GT: Match Details Date: April 08, 2026 (Wednesday) Time: 7:30 PM IST Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi DC vs GT Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the DC vs GT clash on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also enjoy the live stream of the game through the Jio Hotstar app or website. DC vs GT Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 06 DC : 02 GT : 04 No-Result : 00 DC vs GT: Ground Pitch Report Arun Jaitley Stadium is known for producing excellent batting wickets. The wicket is flat and has small boundaries. It is very hard to stop batters here. But teams have preferred to bowl first here, because the new ball does a bit. That is why the record for the chasing team is excellent here. DC vs GT Possible XIs DC: KL Rahul (wk), Axar Patel (c), Pathum Nissanka, Sameer Rizvi, Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar GT : Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Glenn Phillips, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Rahul Tewatia, Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan, Ashok Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna DC vs GT: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Sameer Rizvi has produced two excellent knocks under pressure, and he will be the key batter for DC. For GT, Sai Sudharsan scored a brilliant fifty in the last game, and he will be looking to play another good knock here. Probable Best Bowler Lungi Ngidi has been superb for DC and has picked up crucial matches. For GT, Prasidh Krishna had one good game, and he can extract bounce from this wicket. Today Match Prediction : Both sides are in contrasting form ahead of this game. The advantage for DC is the home conditions and in-form bowling unit. Hence, we predict Delhi Capitals to win this contest. DC vs GT Match 14, IPL 2026, Today DC vs GT Match, DC vs GT Prediction, DC vs GT Predicted XIs, Injury Update for DC vs GT Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer: The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Alana King, Melie Kerr Claim Top Spots ODI Rankings
The White Ferns: Alana King has reclaimed the No.1 spot in the ICC Womens ODI bowling rankings following a standout performance during Australia women's tour of the Caribbean. Her rise comes after a match-winning five-wicket haul in St Kitts. King, who had briefly taken the top spot in March before slipping behind Sophie Ecclestone again last week, returned in emphatic fashion with exceptional figures of 5-19 in 10 overs at Warner Park in Basseterre. Her spell, which included 44 dot balls, played a key role in Australias dominant nine-wicket victory and clean 3-0 series sweep. The performance also boosted her position in the ODI all-rounder rankings, lifting her to seventh and pushing Nat Sciver-Brunt down a place. Meanwhile, New Zealand players enjoyed a surge in the batting charts after an impressive home series against South Africa. Maddy Green reached a career-best ranking, climbing into the top 10, while Melie Kerr made a significant jump after producing one of the most memorable ODI innings in recent history. Kerrs unbeaten 179 at the Basin Reserve powered New Zealand to a record-breaking chase and underlined her exceptional form. The White Ferns captain has been in remarkable touch across formats, delivering consistently with both bat and ball. Over a recent stretch of matches against Zimbabwe and South Africa, she produced outstanding all-round numbers, including a haul of 18 wickets in four ODIs at a strikingly low average, highlighted by a record-setting 7 for 34. Meanwhile, New Zealand players enjoyed a surge in the batting charts after an impressive home series against South Africa. Maddy Green reached a career-best ranking, climbing into the top 10, while Melie Kerr made a significant jump after producing one of the most memorable ODI innings in recent history. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Other South African players also made gains, with Chloe Tryon and Sune Luus climbing in the all-rounder rankings after solid contributions. Overall, the latest rankings update reflects a period of dominant individual performances, particularly from Australias bowling attack and New Zealands multi-dimensional stars. Article Source: IANS
Make Sure They Doesn't Get Off To Early Start: Du Plessis Advices MI Ahead Of RR Clash
Former South African: Former South African cricketer Faf Du Plessis has warned the Hardik Pandya-led side not to lose wickets in the powerplay and alsomake sure that Rajasthan Royals doesn't get a good start. Sooryavanshi has continued his great touch from the last season and has scored 83 runs in two matches. He hammered a 15-ball fifty in the Rajasthan Royals' first match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and can be a great threat to the Mumbai Indians, who are coming to the contest after losing against Delhi Capitals (DC) by six wickets and are desperate to get back to winning. Du Plessis has advised the Mumbai Indians to avoid three things if they want to win the match against RR. First of all, don't give room to Sooryavanshi. He is crunching everything for full, Du Plessis said in a video released by Star Sports. Make sure you do not lose wickets in the power play, as they rely heavily on that top order. And my third point, make sure RR doesn't get off to an early start, he said. Sooryavanshi has continued his great touch from the last season and has scored 83 runs in two matches. He hammered a 15-ball fifty in the Rajasthan Royals' first match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and can be a great threat to the Mumbai Indians, who are coming to the contest after losing against Delhi Capitals (DC) by six wickets and are desperate to get back to winning. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In their head-to-head history, the Mumbai Indians hold a slight edge over the Rajasthan Royals, winning 16 of their 31 encounters, while the RR has claimed 14 victories, with one match ending in a No Result. In 2024, the RR dominated by winning both encounters, but the Mumbai Indians struck back in 2025 with a massive 100-run victory in Jaipur. Article Source: IANS
You Need Two Players To Replace Hardik, He's A Perfect All-rounder: Kumble
Indian Premier League: Former India captain Anil Kumble stressed Hardik Pandyas irreplaceable value ahead of Mumbai Indians Indian Premier League (IPL) clash against Rajasthan Royals, stating that his absence could disrupt MIs team balance and the team would require two players to fill in his shoes. Pandya, who was unable to play in Mumbais last away game against Delhi Capitals because of illness, returned to training in Guwahati on Sunday. With Pandya out, Suryakumar Yadav took charge of the team, which underwent several changes. These included adding Deepak Chahar and Corbin Bosch to the XI, while Trent Boult was sidelined to keep the overseas player balance. Kumble underlined just how crucial Pandya is to the side, placing him alongside Jasprit Bumrah as one of the two players Mumbai can least afford to lose. I think Mumbai Indians, the two players you don't want to be missing out in the playing XI, one is of course just with Bumrah and the other is Hardik Pandya. Because Hardik Pandya, you need two players to replace him. We saw that balance sort of getting a bit upset in the last game, Kumble said in a video shared by Star Sports on X. He further elaborated on Pandyas multidimensional impact, pointing out that his contribution goes far beyond just runs with the bat, saying, So hopefully for Mumbai Indians, Hardik will play. If he plays, it's not just the batting, it's also the way he bats. The way he bats situations and his four overs. With the new ball, he's able to bowl. He comes and bowls in the death as well. So he's a perfect all-rounder. Kumble emphasised that players of Pandyas calibre are rare in modern cricket, highlighting his consistency across formats and situations. He further elaborated on Pandyas multidimensional impact, pointing out that his contribution goes far beyond just runs with the bat, saying, So hopefully for Mumbai Indians, Hardik will play. If he plays, it's not just the batting, it's also the way he bats. The way he bats situations and his four overs. With the new ball, he's able to bowl. He comes and bowls in the death as well. So he's a perfect all-rounder. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pandya had earlier made a useful contribution in Mumbais opening win over Kolkata Knight Riders, returning figures of 1/39 and scoring an unbeaten 18 off 11 balls. However, his absence was felt in the subsequent defeat to Delhi, reinforcing Kumbles point about the balance he brings to the side. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'Coming Back To RCB Was Turning Point Of My Career,' Says Padikkal
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Indian cricketer Devdutt Padikkal has admitted that returning to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 proved to be a turning point in his career, as it gave him clarity about the kind of cricket he wanted to play. In 2025, Padikkal played a crucial role at the top of the order for RCB, scoring 247 runs in 10 matches at an impressive strike rate of 150.61. In 2026, he scored 111 runs in just two games at a strike rate of 201.82. I feel that auction was probably the turning point of my career in a lot of ways. I was at that stage of my career where I needed to really commit to the type of cricket I want to play, the kind of cricketer I wanted to be. And coming back to RCB paved my path towards the brand of cricket I wanted to play, Padikkal said in a video released by RCB on X. When I got that opportunity with RCB, I feel that's the day I decided that there are a lot of things that I need to do and I needed to really commit to working on those things regardless of what the outcome may be, what the result may be, he added. Padikkal made an immediate impact in his debut 2020 IPL season with RCB, scoring 473 runs and winning the Emerging Player Award. After spending a few seasons with the Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants, RCB bought him back at his base price of Rs 2 Crore during the 2025 mega auction. When I got that opportunity with RCB, I feel that's the day I decided that there are a lot of things that I need to do and I needed to really commit to working on those things regardless of what the outcome may be, what the result may be, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I did not understand it enough. The way the season went, it really dampened a lot of things that had happened that year. But at the same time, that gave me that motivation and that real fire in me to try and get better, and sometimes you need that. You need those failures along your journey to remind you how much harder you need to work to get to where you want to get to, he added. Article Source: IANS
Top 5 Fearless Prodigies of TATA IPL 2026: Suryavanshi, Rizvi Shine Early
In the opening 11 games of TATA IPL 2026, the Fearless Prodigies have stamped their authority with the bat, ball, and in the field. Be it Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sameer Rizvi, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Prince Yadav, or Harsh Dubey, these youngsters have risen to the occasion in crunch moments, playing with a boldness that belies their age. We take a look at the top 5 Fearless Prodigies who have stolen the limelight in the tournament and beautifully validated the leagues evolving narrative, where the next generation isnt waiting for its turn; it is already taking centre stage. Vaibhav Suryavanshi His age and exploits over the last 12 months in age-group cricket, domestic cricket and the TATA IPL precede his name and reputation. The wonderkid from Bihar has taken the cricketing world by storm and, after success in the Rising Stars Asia Cup and the Under-19 World Cup, has carried that form into TATA IPL 2026, picking up from where he left off last season. He scored 252 runs in just seven games, striking at over 200 and registering the second-fastest century of the tournament. Suryavanshi began this season with a thunderous 15-ball half-century against CSK and followed it up with another quickfire knock against GT, helping RR get off to a strong start. Sameer Rizvi The UP big-hitter first grabbed attention in the UP T20 League a couple of years ago, prompting CSK to invest INR 8.4 crore in him at the TATA IPL 2024 auction. After a disappointing season and subsequent release, his resurgence began when DC picked him up at the mega auction. A stylish middle-order batter, Rizvi had limited opportunities last season but signed off TATA IPL 2025 with a half-century. Following an average Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he was not an automatic starter this season, but has now forced his way into the XI with back-to-back match-winning knocks under pressure. Angkrish Raghuvanshi Taking on wicketkeeping duties has ensured the Mumbai youngster a place in KKRs line-up for TATA IPL 2026. While KKR have had a challenging start, Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been a standout performer with back-to-back half-centuries at the top of the order, earning a promotion in the second game ahead of Cameron Green. Being entrusted with the gloves signals the franchises long-term faith in him, and at 21, Raghuvanshi has shown that he can shoulder responsibility while adapting his game to different match situations. Prince Yadav One of the many products of Indias state-run leagues, Prince Yadav was picked by LSG in the TATA IPL 2025 mega auction after impressing with his pace and consistency in line and length. With much of LSGs pace attack sidelined due to injuries, opportunities came his way, albeit limited, but he showed enough promise. Even with the return of Mohammed Shami and both Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan regaining fitness, his inclusion in the XI raised a few eyebrows, but he has repaid the managements faith with crucial strikes in games against DC and SRH. He is now emerging as a key component of the attack, capable of delivering across phases. Harsh Dubey Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Ranji Trophy star for Vidarbha has taken to IPL cricket like a fish to water for SRH. The bowling all-rounder has been trusted by Captain Ishan Kishan to operate in the Powerplay, where he has not only controlled the run flow but also picked up key wickets, including Finn Allen against KKR. Dubey has relied on his traditional lines and lengths, while mixing his pace cleverly to outfox batters. Not just with the ball, the record holder for most wickets in a Ranji Trophy season has also chipped in with handy contributions down the order with the bat, striking a couple of boundaries at Eden Gardens to push SRH past the 225 mark.
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RR vs MI Match 13, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
RR vs MI Match 13, Cricket Tips :The next contest in the IPL 2026 will be played between two former champions. The inaugural season winner, Rajasthan Royals, will lock horns with the five-time champion, Mumbai Indians. These two sides will step on the field on Tuesday at Barsapara Cricket Stadium at 7:30 PM IST. RR have played two games and won both of them. They have found good form with the top order, and the bowling unit has checked all the boxes. Their middle order hasn't been tested yet. Meanwhile, MI lost their previous game against Delhi Capitals. The wicket was a bit tricky, and their batting couldn't resist. Captain Hardik Pandya will be back, and he will add balance to this contest. RR vs MI: Match Details Date: April 07, 2026 (Tuesday) Time: 7:30 PM IST Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati RR vs MI Live Streaming Details The live action of the RR vs MI will be televised on the Star Sports networks. Fans can also enjoy the game on the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. RR vs MI Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 31 RR : 14 MI : 16 No-Result : 01 RR vs MI: Ground Pitch Report Barsapara Cricket Stadium is another good batting venue in India. The wicket has some help for the seamer with the new ball. Spinners will get a slow turn with the old ball. But it might not be enough for the bowling side, because shorter boundaries and a fast outfield make it tough. RR vs MI Possible XIs RR: Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag (c), Dhurv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Jofra Archer, Ravi Bishnoi MI : Ryan Rickelton (wk), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Sherfane Rutherford, Hardik Pandya (c), Corbin Bosch, Mitchell Santner, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah RR vs MI: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi is among the most destructive batters and can change the game's situation within the powerplay. For MI, Rohit Sharma has looked good and will be a key batter. Probable Best Bowler Nandre Burger is getting a good swing early on and can trouble the MI batters. For MI, Jasprit Bumrah will be the key, because the wicket is flat and he can bowl at any surface. Today Match Prediction : MI will be under a bit of pressure. But they are an excellent team and know how to bounce back. But RR have shown great form, and we predict them to win here. RR vs MI Match 13, IPL 2026, Today RR vs MI Match, RR vs MI Prediction, RR vs MI Predicted XIs, Injury Update for RR vs MI Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer: The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Virat Kohli: Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has heaped praise on the film Dhurandhar: The Revenge, describing it as a cinematic experience unlike anything he has witnessed in Indian cinema. Taking to social media after watching the film, Kohli applauded director Aditya Dhar for his creative vision and conviction, calling him a genius. His strong endorsement has quickly added to the growing anticipation surrounding the project. Kohli reserved special praise for lead actor Ranveer Singh, saying the star has attained a different level with his performance. While acknowledging the overall strength of the cast, he emphasized that Singhs portrayal stood out as absolutely wow, making a lasting impression. Highlighting the films emotional depth and gripping narrative, Kohli said it evoked every kind of emotion and kept him fully engaged throughout its nearly four-hour runtime. I didnt flinch once, he noted, underscoring the films ability to hold attention despite its length. This is truly overwhelming coming from such an exceptional talent like vou. Thank you so much, Anushka. Highlighting the films emotional depth and gripping narrative, Kohli said it evoked every kind of emotion and kept him fully engaged throughout its nearly four-hour runtime. I didnt flinch once, he noted, underscoring the films ability to hold attention despite its length. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kohlis enthusiastic review has further fueled buzz around Dhurandhar: The Revenge, positioning it as one of the most talked-about upcoming releases. Article Source: IANS
Akram, Farhan and Philippe help Sultans crush Rawalpindiz
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IPL 2026: KKR And PBKS Share A Point As Rain Washes Out Match
The Kolkata Knight Riders: The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) shared a point each as the 12th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 was called off due to rain at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Monday. The match was just into the fourth over when rain poured down at the ground. The drizzle intensified, forcing the umpires to take the players off the field as covers were swiftly brought on. The ground staff acted quickly, laying out sheets across the pitch, square and run-ups, and within moments, the entire playing area was covered. The covers remained firmly placed, and the revised timing for the inspection was set for 8:45 PM IST, but eventually it was called off due to rain. The point was shared between the teams as PBKS continue to reign on top with KKR slipping to eighth position. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) would have welcomed the break, having been in deep trouble at 25/2 after losing two key overseas batters early. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, would have been frustrated by the interruption, having dominated proceedings and keen to maintain the pressure. Xavier Bartlett gave a perfect start to PBKS with a quick inside the powerplay. KKRs troubles deepened early as Bartlett struck twice in quick succession with relentless precision. First, Allen fell in a similar fashion, attempting to go big but only managing a thick outside edge. With Bartlett hitting the same spot consistently. Moments later, Cameron Greens lean patch continued as he edged a probing delivery to the keeper for just 4, unable to resist the temptation outside off. KKR found themselves two down in no time and under serious pressure. KKRs troubles deepened early as Bartlett struck twice in quick succession with relentless precision. First, Allen fell in a similar fashion, attempting to go big but only managing a thick outside edge. With Bartlett hitting the same spot consistently. Moments later, Cameron Greens lean patch continued as he edged a probing delivery to the keeper for just 4, unable to resist the temptation outside off. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rovman Powell joined the team for his first game of the season, and Navdeep Saini returned to IPL action, making his KKR debut and playing his first match since 2023. These changes left KKR short on spin, with Anukul Roy as the only specialist spinner in the XI and no extra spin options among their Impact substitutes. Article Source: IANS
Washout gives KKR first point after Bartlett's new-ball burst
The Australia quick picked up two wickets before rain ended the match in the fourth over
Waite, Hose and Brookes scupper Derbyshire
Matthew Waite's 141-ball 66 saved Worcestershire from what looked an inevitable innings defeat
Tawanda Muyeye weathers Durham storm with defiant hundred
Kent batter (and Storm Dave) prevent hosts from converting their dominance into a win
Nottinghamshire bat away Somerset to take draw
Batters hold firm to leave Taunton unscathed to start title defense
IFL 2025-26: Chanmari Edge Real Kashmir In Srinagar
Sayad Bin Abdul Kadir: Goals from Marlon Rangel and Lalruatsanga in either half ensured Chanmari FC edged past Real Kashmir FC 2-1 in a crucial Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 at the TRC Stadium in Srinagar on Monday. Marius Bedzigui scored for the home side to halve the deficit, but Chanmari FC held on to the lead to move to seventh in the table with eight points, while Real Kashmir remained at the bottom of the table with two points from seven matches. Marlon Rangel was adjudged Player of the Match. Real Kashmir head coach Ishfaq Ahmed made three changes for the crucial fixture, bringing in Sayad Bin Abdul Kadir in goal in place of Furkan Ahmad Dar, Shahid Nazir into midfield for Ahteeb Ahmad Dar, and handing Shedrack Charles a start in place of Habib Fofana. Meanwhile, Chanmari FC head coach Dipankur Sharma also made three changes for his second game in charge, with Lalruatsanga, F. Malsawmtluanga, and Joel Lalramengmawia coming into the starting XI in place of Kyle Degelman, Suanngaihmuana, and Emmanuel Badu. The home side dominated large spells of the first half, making good use of the windy conditions that made it difficult for midfielders to play precise forward passes. Real Kashmirs overseas signings impressed alongside captain Mohammad Inam, as they looked the more likely side to score. At the other end, Chanmari relied on their pace to threaten on the counter. The Snow Leopards struck the woodwork twice in the first half. Mohammad Inam hit the near post after being set up by Junior Traore, and later in the half, Marius Bedzigui himself saw his effort from the edge of the box crash against the crossbar following a well-worked corner. Chanmari took the lead against the run of play just before half-time from a set-piece. P. Christopher Kamei floated a chipped delivery into the box, and Real Kashmir goalkeeper Sayad Bin misjudged its flight, completely missing the ball and leaving the goal exposed. Marlon Angel had the simplest of tasks, guiding it into the net to give the visitors the lead, which they took into the break. The visitors doubled their advantage just after the hour mark, capitalising on poor set-piece defending from Real Kashmir. Christopher Kamei was once again the provider, as his corner was expertly side-footed into the net by Lalruatsanga, who got ahead of his marker. The Snow Leopards pulled one back just two minutes later. Shedrack Charles was brought down on the edge of the box, earning a free-kick in a dangerous position. Marius stepped up and curled a superb effort over the five-man wall and into the net, leaving the goalkeeper rooted to the spot. The visitors doubled their advantage just after the hour mark, capitalising on poor set-piece defending from Real Kashmir. Christopher Kamei was once again the provider, as his corner was expertly side-footed into the net by Lalruatsanga, who got ahead of his marker. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chanmari looked in control for the rest of the match, even though the home side were pushing for an equaliser, but could not create any clear-cut chances or trouble the defence. In the end, the away side held on to their one-goal advantage and secured three crucial points. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Bartlett Strikes Early As KKR Slip To 25/2 Before Rain Stops Play In Kolkata
The Kolkata Knight Riders: The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) match was delayed after rain came into play at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Monday. The drizzle intensified, forcing the umpires to take the players off the field as covers were swiftly brought on. The ground staff acted quickly, laying out sheets across the pitch, square and run-ups, and within moments, the entire playing area was covered. After the rain, the covers were firmly placed, and the revised timing for the inspection was set for 8:45 PM IST. But the rain continued past the inspection time, and past the 9.52 pm deadline after which overs will be reduced for both teams. This is the first match of the 2026 IPL in which the weather has made such an impact. If the rain relents and the game starts, the overs will be reduced now and the target set as per the DLS Method. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) would have welcomed the break, having been in deep trouble at 25/2 after losing two key overseas batters early. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, would have been frustrated by the interruption, having dominated proceedings and keen to maintain the pressure. Xavier Bartlett gave a perfect start to PBKS with a quick blow inside the Power-play. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) would have welcomed the break, having been in deep trouble at 25/2 after losing two key overseas batters early. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, would have been frustrated by the interruption, having dominated proceedings and keen to maintain the pressure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR found themselves two down in no time and under serious pressure. Earlier, KKR won the toss as Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine were out of the team, while PBKS opted for the same playing XI. Article Source: IANS
Smith, Lawrence centuries secure Surrey stalemate
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KKR bat with Narine and Varun unavailable
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IPL 2026: Hardik Pandya Available For MIs Clash Against RR In Guwahati, Says Mhambrey
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Mumbai Indians (MI) bowling coach Paras Mhambrey has confirmed that skipper Hardik Pandya will be available for the teams upcoming IPL 2026 game against Rajasthan Royals, to be played at ACA Stadium on Tuesday. Pandya had missed the previous match against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, which they lost by six wickets, due to illness. He then returned to the MI nets in Guwahati on Sunday night, where he bowled and batted in fine rhythm. He will be available. He had a good couple of hours of net sessions yesterday, so he is fit and fine. He wasn't injured, he was unwell, that's the reason he missed the game, said Mhambrey in the pre-match press conference. Pandyas absence in the last game forced MI to tweak their combination, with South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch coming in for Trent Boult, while Deepak Chahar came into the side as well. Well, I think that is something that you will have to take care of. Injuries are something that you can't control. But I think we got the team, we got enough guys out there to mix and match, and looking at the surface combinations, but I think we got enough guys to kind of look around. I think it was just a combination change. Obviously, Hardik gives you the option of a bat and a bowler the all-rounder. Since he wasn't available, we needed a kind of replacement who could fill in that role for us. It is purely a tactical decision that we went with, added Mhambrey. MI are set to play an IPL game for the first time in Guwahati, and one battle which everyone will be keen to see is how RR batters Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Dhruv Jurel fare against ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Mhambrey highlighted Bumrahs unique qualities, especially his ability to outthink batters. I think it was just a combination change. Obviously, Hardik gives you the option of a bat and a bowler the all-rounder. Since he wasn't available, we needed a kind of replacement who could fill in that role for us. It is purely a tactical decision that we went with, added Mhambrey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Classic example was the England game. The first ball he bowled - no one could have expected a slower one. So I think the ability to anticipate what the batters are thinking and to be able to present a kind of an option that, as a batter, you are not expecting. I think that's his USP - I would say that, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Crocombe delivers as Sussex land emphatic 222-run win
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IPL 2026: Saini, Powell Come Replace Chakravarthy, Narine As KKR Elect To Bat Against PBKS
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) won the toss and elected to bat against Punjab Kings in the 12th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2206 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Monday. Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinjkya Rahane said, We are going to bat first. Looks like a good wicket -- a little bit on the dry side. But looks like a very good wicket. Slightly less grass on the surface, which is why we want to bat first. It is all about having that belief and having that confidence. It is all about winning those small moments. You have to give your best, and if you find that right moment, give your best and have that belief. We will think about that. Two forced changes -- Varun Chakaravarthy got injured in the last game, and Sunil Narine is sick. Navdeep Saini is in for Chakaravarthy, and Rovman Powell is in for Narine. Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer said, I was supposed to bowl as well, so Im kind of happy with the decision he made. Blossomed during his time with Delhi Capitals, and hes someone who gives a lot of freedom and confidence to the youngsters in the team. Hes an inspiration in himself, having played outstanding cricket over the years, and weve always looked up to him as one of the best cricketers in the world. So, yeah, walking out alongside him is a phenomenal feeling. Playing XIs: Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Impact substitutes: Vishnu Vinod, Praveen Dubey, Priyansh Arya, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Manish Pandey, Tejasvi Dahiya, Rahul Tripathi, Saurabh Dubey, Blessing Muzarabani Article Source: IANS
Sooryavanshi meets Bumrah as RR eye top of the table
Hardik Pandya is expected to return for MI after missing their game against DC
Hasaranga, Pathirana yet to undergo SLC-mandated fitness tests
They picked up injuries during the World Cup, and need to clear the tests to get NOCs for IPL 2026
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch RR Vs MI, Know All Details
Indian Premier League: Buoyed by their early success, Rajasthan Royals, winner of the inaugural edition in 2008, will face five-time champions Mumbai Indians in the 13th Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday. RR have started their campaign strongly, securing wins in their first two matches. They opened with a commanding victory over the Chennai Super Kings and later achieved a narrow six-run victory against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. The former champions possess a powerful batting lineup, featuring an aggressive opening pair in Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Additionally, skipper Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel provide support in the middle order. Their quick bowlers, led by Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger, have also performed well with the new ball. Mumbai Indians, meanwhile, head into the match after a setback against Delhi Capitals. The five-time champions have had a mixed start, securing a win over Kolkata Knight Riders but struggling with consistency overall. Currently placed sixth in the table, MI will be eager to bounce back, with captain Hardik Pandya likely to return to the playing XI. The addition of Mitchell Santner strengthens their spin department and provides better balance, enabling the side to field a three-pronged Indian pace attack alongside Trent Boult. On paper, both teams appear evenly matched, setting the stage for a competitive clash in Guwahati. While Rajasthan will aim to extend their winning run and cement their status as early contenders, Mumbai will be eager to regroup and get their campaign back on track. When: Tuesday, April 7, 7:30 PM IST Where: Barsapara Cricket Stadium (ACA), Guwahati Where to watch: The RR vs MI match will be broadcast by Star Sports Network, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The RR vs MI match will be broadcast by Star Sports Network, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mumbai Indians: Hardik Pandya (c), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Ryan Rickleton, Robin Minz, Mitchell Santner, Corbin Bosch, Naman Dhir, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Allah Ghafanzar, Ashwani Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Will Jacks, Raghu Sharma, Raj Angad Bawa, Sherfane Rutherford, Mayank Markande, Shardul Thakur, Quinton de Kock, Mohammad Izhar, Danish Malewar, Atharva Ankolekar, Mayank Rawat Article Source: IANS
Injury-hit India look to ride on home support to reach Billie Jean King Cup playoffs
IPL 2026: Will Be Difficult To Keep Padikkal Out Of The Indian Team For Long, Feels Karthik
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batting coach and mentor Dinesh Karthik believes Devdutt Padikkals ongoing form in the 2026 IPL has been so assured that it will be difficult to keep him out of the Indian team for a long time. Padikkal struck 50 off 29 balls his second consecutive fifty of the season - and set the tone for RCB to post a daunting 250/3 against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, as they eventually won by 43 runs. The first thing that stands out is his determination. On a pitch like this, when runs dont come easily at the start, many batters try to force a big shot and end up giving their wicket away. Devdutt showed great courage to stay patient when the going was tough. Once he got that first boundary, you could see him switch gears. Hes playing proper cricketing shots and hitting the ball with distance. If he continues batting like this, it will be difficult to keep him out of the Indian team for long. He has scored heavily in domestic cricket and we know hes a quality player. Whats also impressive is the way hes stepping up as a leader in the Karnataka dressing room. Even at 25, he contributes with his ideas and leadership, and thats great to see, said Karthik on JioStar. Once he got that first boundary, you could see him switch gears. Hes playing proper cricketing shots and hitting the ball with distance. If he continues batting like this, it will be difficult to keep him out of the Indian team for long. He has scored heavily in domestic cricket and we know hes a quality player. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Because he bats in the middle order, he often gets fewer balls in a match compared to top-order batters. So, in the nets, its important that he faces enough deliveries and stays in a good rhythm. The rest of his game is already very strong. Over the last 1218 months, he has been one of the most consistent batters in the world in this format, added Karthik. Article Source: IANS
'Dravid Rarely Seen Inside': Kumbles Witty Take On Pavilion End Honour At Chinnaswamy
The Karnataka State Cricket Association: Legendary India spinner Anil Kumble shared a hilarious take on being honoured with the pavilion end at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium named after him, saying the pavilion end has not been named after Rahul Dravid because he either spent most of his time outside it or because he was rarely seen inside once he walked out with the bat. The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) unveiled the Anil Kumble End and the Rahul Dravid End ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, recognising the contributions of two of Karnataka and Indias finest cricketers. Kumble shared a light-hearted remark involving Dravid. Probably because Rahul spent most of his time outside the pavilion. When he used to bat, he was rarely seen inside, he told JioStar. The pavilion end of the stadium has now been named after Kumble, referencing his bowling style and long spells during his career. And I have been given the pavilion end, probably because it is close to the pavilion and you dont need a run-up to bowl from there. When I played, I bowled a lot of overs from both ends, so why did they give me the pavilion end?, he joked. Reflecting on the honour, Kumble admitted the gesture had exceeded anything he had imagined during his playing days. I never thought that there would be a permanent end at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in my name. Its a special feeling, he added. The pavilion end of the stadium has now been named after Kumble, referencing his bowling style and long spells during his career. And I have been given the pavilion end, probably because it is close to the pavilion and you dont need a run-up to bowl from there. When I played, I bowled a lot of overs from both ends, so why did they give me the pavilion end?, he joked. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ceremony, attended by KSCA officials, including president Venkatesh Prasad, marked a significant tribute to two stalwarts whose careers have left an indelible mark on Indian cricket. Article Source: IANS
Samson, Bumrah And Esterhuizen Nominated For ICC Men's Player Of The Month Honour
T20 World Cup: India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and South Africa batter Connor Esterhuizen have been nominated for the ICC Mens Player of the Month award for March 2026. Samson, who began the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup watching from the sidelines, wrote one of the tournament's most dramatic personal arcs once handed an opportunity to be in the team since the Super Eights clash against Zimbabwe in Chennai. He struck an unforgettable 97 not out against the West Indies in a must-win Super Eights fixture in Kolkata before hitting scores of 89 each in the semi-final against England in Mumbai and in the final against New Zealand in Ahmedabad. His efforts helped India retain the title on home soil, as Samson clinched the Player of the Tournament award. Bumrah, meanwhile, was central to every knockout victory India got on their way to win the title. In a semifinal where most bowlers conceded more than 9.50 runs per over against England, Bumrah was at his best to pick 1-31 - with his tight 16th and 18th overs proving decisive as England fell seven runs short in the chase. He then produced a four-wicket haul, conceding just 15 runs in four overs in the final against New Zealand to earn the Player of the Match award at his home ground. In all, Bumrah picked seven wickets at an average of 12 and an economy rate of 7 in Indias last three games of the competition. Bumrah, meanwhile, was central to every knockout victory India got on their way to win the title. In a semifinal where most bowlers conceded more than 9.50 runs per over against England, Bumrah was at his best to pick 1-31 - with his tight 16th and 18th overs proving decisive as England fell seven runs short in the chase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He collected two Player of the Match awards and reached 39th position in the mens T20I batting rankings with 551 rating points to go, the fourth-best by any South African batter after five matches. Article Source: IANS
Jamieson Eyes New-ball Role In First Year With DC, Hails IPL As best Place To Grow
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson is yet to get a chance to play for Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2026. But the tall pacer stated that when the call to play comes for him, he anticipates taking new ball bowling duties, though he admitted to his role yet to be formally defined by the team think tank. After featuring for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 2021 IPL, Jamieson returned to playing the tournament as an injury replacement for Lockie Ferguson at Punjab Kings. At the back end of the competition, Jamieson picked up five wickets in four matches at an economy rate of 9.8, including picking a three-fer in the final against RCB. Not really just because I haven't been in the team for those first couple of games, so you don't really have too much of an idea around where you're going to slot in. I think that probably comes once you're sort of - if you're fit into an 11 or 12 - you sort of work out, I guess, the mix of your players and bowlers at that point of time. So nothing really around role clarity. I mean, I'd expect that it'd be the new ball stuff, but equally being flexible as probably every bowler is nowadays. You've got to be flexible across the whole innings. So, nothing sort of set in stone as of yet, but if I do get a chance to play, then I'm sure that'll come, said Jamieson, while replying to a question from IANS in a virtual roundtable chat ahead of the side taking on Gujarat Titans on Wednesday. DC have won two out of two games so far, and Jamieson has found Axar Patel to be an impressive skipper who has managed the bowlers well and kept things calm, apart from not minding to have a laugh. All of this has kept the team atmosphere light and joyful, with the playing group finding themselves in a good space, especially with in-form young batter Sameer Rizvi being impressive in taking the side home twice in tricky run chases. When asked about DC pacer Mukesh Kumar's post-match remark after the six-wicket win over Mumbai Indians on him drawing inspiration from Josh Hazlewood consistently hitting Test match-like lengths - Jamieson endorsed that thinking wholeheartedly. I think what Mukesh alluded to, like that simplicity piece is what we're all striving for, right? Like, you've all got your strengths and stuff and you're trying to stick to that. I think that's something that, obviously, Hazlewood's done well for a long period of time now, and Mukesh did it brilliantly in the last game, is how can you have that strength and that resolve to just hold firm? I think, when guys are hitting you for boundaries, it's very easy to get sort of under pressure and trying to change and think you have to do something different. It's almost a bit of a strength of character thing to be like, Nah, I'm just going to hold there. I know that's my strength. I know that gives me the best chance of getting guys out and then trying to hold through the powerplay. It's not going to work every game. I think when the wickets are really good, guys can get away. But I think it's a real key sort of thing to try and hold it firmly on, he elaborated. For Jamieson, whos coming after playing all five T20Is for New Zealand against South Africa, the broader motivation for being part of IPL goes well beyond the immediate question of selection or role. Instead, he views the tournament as an unmatched arena for self-improvement - one where the pressure is relentless and the rewards, in terms of growth, are equally huge. In terms of the IPL now, for me, I think it's like the premier tournament in the world, right? So you always want to be a part of that. You learn so much. I think even having played a fair bit of cricket now, you're constantly trying to learn and grow. For Jamieson, whos coming after playing all five T20Is for New Zealand against South Africa, the broader motivation for being part of IPL goes well beyond the immediate question of selection or role. Instead, he views the tournament as an unmatched arena for self-improvement - one where the pressure is relentless and the rewards, in terms of growth, are equally huge. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But, like I said, I think just for me, it's the best place to grow and to become a better cricketer and to challenge yourself. For us as athletes, that's what you want to do - you want to put yourself in the arena where it's the hardest and see whether you can cope with it, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: They Just Stuck To A Bad Plan, Says Rayudu On CSK Third Straight Loss
Former Chennai Super Kings: Former Chennai Super Kings batter Ambati Rayudu believes the team stuck to a bad plan that hurt as they slumped to a 43-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL 2026 clash at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. CSK endured a difficult outing with the ball as RCB piled up a massive 250/3, powered by a late onslaught from Tim David and Rajat Patidar, who added 99 runs in just 35 balls. The visitors then fell short despite a fighting chase, eventually being bowled out for 207. Analysing CSKs bowling effort, Rayudu pointed out that the issue was not merely planning, but the inability to deviate when things began to unravel. More than a bad plan, they just stuck to that bad plan. There was nobody to intervene and to just take some time off, take those 20-30 seconds, just make it slightly more slow and then guide the bowler with a message. I think they should have slowed it down a little bit, Rayudu told ESPNCricinfo. RCBs late surge, which saw them smash 97 runs in the final five overs, exposed CSKs struggles at the death. Their follow-up balls after a boundary or a six aren't great, Rayudu added. More than a bad plan, they just stuck to that bad plan. There was nobody to intervene and to just take some time off, take those 20-30 seconds, just make it slightly more slow and then guide the bowler with a message. I think they should have slowed it down a little bit, Rayudu told ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In contrast, Rayudu praised RCBs game awareness and ability to respond dynamically to changing situations, which have contributed to their dominant run, including a fourth consecutive win over CSK. RCB, meanwhile, are not letting anything just pass by; they just want to control every scenario, every over, he said. Article Source: IANS
Rizvi leads Orange Cap race at IPL 2026, Bishnoi top of Purple Cap table
Here's a look at the Orange Cap and Purple Cap leaderboards at IPL 2026 after the first 11 games of the group stage
Gaikwad Will Become A Better Leader By Going Through These Hardships: Du Plessis
After Chennai Super Kings: After Chennai Super Kings slumped to their third consecutive loss in the IPL 2026, former South Africa batter Faf du Plessis rallied behind skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad to become a better player and a leader after going through hardships. Sunday's loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was Gaikwad's seven consecutive losses as a CSK captain. He joined RCB star Virat Kohli and Yuvraj Singh in this unwanted list. While Kohli lost across the 2018 and 2019 IPL seasons as the RCB captain, Yuvraj lost in 2013 with the (now defunct) Pune Warriors India. It is not easy as a young captain to suffer back-to-back defeats. Not performing yourself makes things even more difficult as a player. What he will experience right now is the weight of pressure. Expectation when you put on a yellow shirt comes at a cost. The fans expect good performances. They expect the team to be in the semi-finals and finals and to win trophies. So, for him, it is just a case of dealing with that early in his captaincy career. Every good captain has to go through this in their career, Du Plessis said on JioStar. It is not easy as a young captain to suffer back-to-back defeats. Not performing yourself makes things even more difficult as a player. What he will experience right now is the weight of pressure. Expectation when you put on a yellow shirt comes at a cost. The fans expect good performances. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side will next take on Delhi Capitals on April 11 in Chennai. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Shami Credits Tactical Planning For SRH Takedown In Last Over Thriller
Lucknow Super Giants: Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami reflected on his match-defining spell in Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a last-over thriller and said planning and execution to exploit the conditions were the key to holding back the opposition's batting. After LSG won the toss and elected to field, their bowling unit, led by a masterclass from Mohd Shami, dismantled the Sunrisers' top order early. He registered the impressive figures of 2-9, including the dismissals of SRH's opening duo Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. Then, Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy attempted a recovery with a 116-run stand to help SRH post a competitive total of 156/9. I have always tried to give my absolute best for the team. Whatever best can be done, you should do it. Contributing as much as possible for the team is always great, but when performances like this come, its good for me as well it boosts confidence and helps in better execution. It also gives you more confidence going into the next matches, Shami said in a video shared by IPL. Shamis early breakthroughs were built on clever use of conditions, as he varied his pace effectively on a surface that demanded adaptability. The biggest factor here is the pitch. It depends on how much you use the surface, how effectively you use slower deliveries. Batsmen like Abhishek and Travis Head are familiar with pace, and everyone knows how well you can mix things up here, where you can make them play, where they can get elevation, and where they wont. Keeping all these factors in mind, we planned accordingly, and it worked successfully. LSG's disciplined death bowling and crucial batting performances from captain Rishabh Pant and Aiden Markram ensured they crossed the finish line with one delivery to spare. The match kept going up and down because whenever we came level when runs matched the balls there would be a dot-ball over. The game fluctuated a couple of times, but thats cricket. In T20 format, if you dont score at a rate of 67 per over, you will face difficulties. But Rishabh did a very good job because if he had gotten out there, the team could have been in serious trouble. It was very important for him to stay at the crease. As they say, if you take your catches, you win matches; otherwise, it becomes difficult because you are giving a batsman two lives. So it is very important to take every catch, no matter where it goes or what the fielding position is. Even if you convert 50-50 chances or difficult catches, it gives your team a big advantage. The match kept going up and down because whenever we came level when runs matched the balls there would be a dot-ball over. The game fluctuated a couple of times, but thats cricket. In T20 format, if you dont score at a rate of 67 per over, you will face difficulties. But Rishabh did a very good job because if he had gotten out there, the team could have been in serious trouble. It was very important for him to stay at the crease. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When you are not playing international cricket, it becomes very important to keep playing. The best example of this is domestic cricket. If you play domestic cricket, your touch, your feel, and your rhythm stay intact. When you play longer formats like four-day games and then move to T20s and one-day domestic matches, you get time to spend at the crease. The more time you spend on the field, the better it is for you as a cricketer. So, if you are not playing international cricket, it is very important to fully participate in domestic cricket it benefits you a lot, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming defended his team and expressed optimism about the future and long-term vision with a youthful squad after the five-time winners suffered their third straight loss on IPL 2026. CSKs struggles continued as they failed to chase down a daunting 250/3 posted by Royal Challengers Bengaluru, powered by blistering knocks from Tim David, Rajat Patidar and Devdutt Padikkal. Despite resistance from Sarfaraz Khan and youngster Prashant Veer, CSK were bowled out for 207, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar leading the charge with the ball. With pressure mounting after a winless start to the campaign, questions have emerged around CSKs squad overhaul and auction strategy. I think weve got some really good talent. This is, theres five or six new players that have started this season, but we think they are of high value moving forward, he said in the post-match press conference. The five-time champions had drawn scrutiny for splurging heavily on uncapped Indian players like Veer and wicketkeeper Kartik Sharma, while letting go of experienced names. Fleming explained that the shift was deliberate and necessary. While CSKs batting has been inconsistent, it is their bowling that has raised greater concern. The side has now conceded totals in excess of 200 in two of their three matches, including the 250 they allowed RCB, who plundered 97 runs in the final five overs. Fleming, however, pointed to broader trends in T20 cricket and the impact of rule changes. Bowling is under pressure in the IPL, especially with the impact rule. Youre seeing players who are taking the game on, and their skill set is very high. So, look, all bowling attacks are under pressure. We need to execute better. Theres no doubt about it. But theres a lot of pressure on bowling units, especially in good conditions, he said. As we reviewed last season, we had to spend a lot of money on Indian talent, so as to regenerate the franchise and create a foundation moving forward. Wed lost some key players in terms of creating a core, whether it be an Indian batting group or just an Indian group, so there was money spent on the future there, which has been well-documented, he explained. Traditionally, CSK have relied on an experienced domestic core featuring players like Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay, Ambati Rayudu and Kedar Jadhav. The current approach, however, marks a clear departure, with the franchise betting on raw, emerging talent. It is becoming difficult as teams bundle (uncapped) players. So thats one of the challenges. But we are constantly looking at where the game is going next and trying to secure a player that we think will be the next big thing, or where the game will go, Fleming said, explaining the rationale behind targeting uncapped players. Reflecting on the fearless approach of modern batters, particularly evident in RCBs late onslaught, Fleming noted, Theyre full of skill and innovation, and its the modern game. Going back to the bowling, its easy to criticise the bowling, but theyre under a huge amount of pressure on good wickets to shut down these types of players. He repeatedly returned to the Impact Player rule, suggesting it has tilted the balance in favour of batters. Youve got no fear because youve got an extra player, and whats happened is players have developed an attitude where they can just take on anything. So, look, its very difficult when theres no assistance, and youre going to get cameos and performances like this when conditions are so good, he said. I am not sure how much longer its here, or if its here to stay, but that certainly changes the dynamic of cricket and probably sways it a little bit towards batting power, he added. So again, you say, how long is the impact player rule here? Will all-rounders come back into the game, or will it continue to be a game of dashers? I dont know. Id like to see the balance between bat and ball a little bit more, he opined. Despite the teams struggles, Fleming backed Sanju Samson, who has endured a lean run with three low scores. So again, you say, how long is the impact player rule here? Will all-rounders come back into the game, or will it continue to be a game of dashers? I dont know. Id like to see the balance between bat and ball a little bit more, he opined. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With three losses on the trot and a transitional squad finding its feet, CSKs campaign is under early pressure, but Flemings remarks underline a clear commitment to long-term rebuilding over short-term results. Article Source: IANS
Rayudu: CSK's planning against RCB was poor, 'and they just stuck to that bad plan'
RCB a team that's making the right decision at the right time, Aaron Finch says after their 43-run win over CSK
Roland-Jones five-for puts Middlesex on course for victory
Gloucestershire battle in follow-on but face stiff final-day task
KKR looking for first points against in-form PBKS
PBKS have won their first two matches of IPL 2026, while KKR have lost their first two games
Mason Crane five-for lifts Glamorgan into ascendancy
Matthew Revis battles with fifty but Yorkshire still concede 76-run deficit on first innings
Rew ton, Kohler-Cadmore 94* fortify Somerset after Ogborne burst
Notts stumble after Clarke's 92 before being ground down by second-wicket pair
Burns, Smith lead rearguard as Surrey face dicey final day
Warwickshire have chance to turn screw despite fighting display from top-order
IPL 2026: David, Padikkal, Patidar Fireworks Help RCB Register 43-run Win Over CSK (Ld)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: A marauding batting show led by Tim David, Rajat Patidar and Devdutt Padikkal, along with Bhuvneshwar Kumars incisive spell of 3-41 propelled defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a commanding 43-run victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their IPL 2026 encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday. The marquee contest saw RCBs batting unit dismantle CSKs attack with relentless hitting, as Davids 70 not out off just 25 balls and Patidars unbeaten 48 off only 19 balls provided for a grandstand finish after Padikkals fluent 50 off 29 balls his second consecutive fifty of the season - had set the tone for the daunting total. The trios combined effort, including an unbroken 99-run stand off just 35 balls between David and Patidar, who indulged in mind-blowing range-hitting, lifted RCB to a daunting 250/3, thus setting a new record for highest total in IPL 2026. After clobbering Noor Ahmad for three consecutive sixes, a sensational David cut loose in the penultimate over by smashing Jamie Overton for four sixes and a four to reach his second IPL half-century in just 21 balls. His power-hitting had even got Virat Kohli to rise from his seat in the RCB dugout. In reply, CSK faltered under scoreboard pressure, with Sarfaraz Khans 50 off 24 balls and Prashant Veers 43 the lone acts of resistance amid a string of failures from the top order. Bhuvneshwar was at his disciplined best and even crossed the 200-mark in terms of wickets in IPL, with others also chipping in as CSK were bowled out for 207 in 19.4 overs. The comprehensive win also meant RCB have registered four consecutive triumphs over CSK for the first time in the IPLs history. RCB began cautiously after being put into batting first, with Phil Salt and Virat Kohli negotiating early swing from Khaleel Ahmed and Matt Henry. Kohli broke the shackles in the fourth over, striking Henry for a six and two boundaries, but fell soon after for 28 off 18 balls, caught by Shivam Dube, who had shelled an earlier chance, off Anshul Kamboj. Salt, who had struggled early, found rhythm with pulls and slog-sweeps to race to 46 off 30 before Dube dismissed him in the 11th over. Padikkal, dropped once by Ruturaj Gaikwad at cover, shifted gears in the middle overs. He cracked three fours and two sixes off Dube and Henry to bring up his second successive half-century, raising his bat to the noisy and cheerful Chinnaswamy crowd. His innings ended at 50 off 29 balls, bowled by Jamie Overton while trying to play a lap shot in the 15th over. From 151/3 in 14.1 overs, Patidar and David launched a stunning counterattack, leaving many in awe of it. Patidar carved Khaleel for two sixes and a four, while David went after Noor Ahmad, smashing three consecutive sixes twice over deep mid-wicket and once over long-off - in the 17th over. Kamboj thought he had yorked David, but an overstep turned it into a free hit, which David dispatched for another maximum. Overton bore the brunt in the 19th over, conceding 30 runs as David hammered four sixes and a four to reach his half-century in 21 balls with a towering 106m maximum going over the stadiums roof as a whopping 97 runs came off the last five overs. CSKs chase began on a shaky note as Jacob Duffy removed Ruturaj Gaikwad, while Bhuvneshwar claimed his 200th IPL wicket by taking out Ayush Mhatre cheaply. After Duffy dismissed Sanju Samson, Sarfaraz counter-attacked with a flurry of boundaries and sixes off Duffy, Bhuvneshwar and Abhinandan Singh to race to a half-century off just 24 balls. But his dismissal to Krunal Pandya, who also dismissed Kartik Sharma, in the seventh over left CSK tottering at 84/5. After Shivam Dubes vigil was cut short by Abhinandan, Veer and Jamie Overton joined forces for a spirited 57-run stand. CSKs chase began on a shaky note as Jacob Duffy removed Ruturaj Gaikwad, while Bhuvneshwar claimed his 200th IPL wicket by taking out Ayush Mhatre cheaply. After Duffy dismissed Sanju Samson, Sarfaraz counter-attacked with a flurry of boundaries and sixes off Duffy, Bhuvneshwar and Abhinandan Singh to race to a half-century off just 24 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Royal Challengers Bengaluru 250/3 in 20 overs (Tim David 70 not out, Devdutt Padikkal 50; Shivam Dube 1-30, Jamie Overton 1-42) beat Chennai Super Kings 207 in 19.4 overs (Sarfaraz Khan 50, Prashant Veer 43; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3-41, Abhinandan Singh 2-30) by 43 runs Article Source: IANS
Smith, Masood help Sultans cruise to victory
Quetta's 166 was never going to be enough, as Sultans chased that target down in 17.3 overs
Lategan battles as Derbyshire turn the screw on Worcs
Bashir in spotlight as he claims maiden wicket for new club
Critchley five seals three-day win as Hampshire endure horror start
Essex claim thumping victory in opening round as hosts subside meekly after following on
IPL 2026: Bhuvneshwar Kumar Picks 3-41 As RCB Register 43-run Win Over CSK
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Bhuvneshwar Kumars incisive spell of 3-41, coming after a marauding batting show from Tim David, Rajat Patidar and Devdutt Padikkal, propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a commanding 43-run victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their IPL 2026 encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday. The contest saw RCBs batting unit dismantle CSKs attack with relentless hitting, as Davids 70 not out off just 25 balls and Patidars unbeaten 48 off only 19 balls provided for the late fireworks after Padikkals fluent 50 off 29 balls had set the tone for the daunting total. Their combined effort lifted RCB to a daunting 250/3, thus setting a new record for highest total in IPL 2026. In reply, CSK faltered under scoreboard pressure, with Sarfaraz Khans 50 off 24 balls and Prashant Veers 43 the lone acts of resistance amid a string of failures from the top order. Bhuvneshwar was at his disciplined best and even crossed the 200-mark in terms of wickets in IPL, with others also chipping in as CSK were bowled out for 207 in 19.4 overs. The comprehensive win also meant RCB have registered four consecutive triumphs over CSK for the first time in the IPLs history. CSKs chase began on a shaky note as Jacob Duffy removed Ruturaj Gaikwad, while Bhuvneshwar claimed his 200th IPL wicket by taking out Ayush Mhatre cheaply. After Duffy dismissed Sanju Samson, Sarfaraz counter-attacked with a flurry of boundaries and sixes off Duffy, Bhuvneshwar and Abhinandan Singh to race to a half-century off just 24 balls. Bhuvneshwar was at his disciplined best and even crossed the 200-mark in terms of wickets in IPL, with others also chipping in as CSK were bowled out for 207 in 19.4 overs. The comprehensive win also meant RCB have registered four consecutive triumphs over CSK for the first time in the IPLs history. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Royal Challengers Bengaluru 250/3 in 20 overs (Tim David 70 not out, Devdutt Padikkal 50; Shivam Dube 1-30, Jamie Overton 1-42) beat Chennai Super Kings 207 in 19.4 overs (Sarfaraz Khan 50, Prashant Veer 43; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3-41, Abhinandan Singh 2-30) by 43 runs Article Source: IANS
Carson, Price impress as Sussex close in on victory
Leicestershire limp to close five down in pursuit of notional target of 481
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch KKR Vs PBKS Match, Know All Details
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will host Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 12th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, at the Eden Gardens. Kolkata Knight Riders enter this match under pressure. They have lost their first two games against Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2026 season. With their season still struggling, KKR is hoping home support will help them bounce back. On the other hand, Punjab Kings have been one of the top teams so far. They started with a thrilling win over Gujarat Titans, followed by a strong victory against Chennai Super Kings in Chennai. Boosted by confidence and momentum, PBKS is looking to secure their third win in a row. Match details: When: Monday, April 6, 7:30 PM IST Where: Eden Gardens, Kolkata Where to watch: Star Sports Network and JioStar Squads: Where to watch: Star Sports Network and JioStar Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (c), Priyansh Arya, Harnoor Singh, Mitchell Owen, Vishnu Vinod, Nehal Wadhera, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Marcus Stoinis, Arshdeep Singh, Xavier Bartlett, Yuzvendra Chahal, Lockie Ferguson, Harpreet Brar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Yash Thakur, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Musheer Khan, Praveen Dubey, Vishal Nishad, Suryansh Shedge, Prabhsimran Singh, Pyla Avinash, Shashank Singh. Article Source: IANS
Lancashire regain momentum after Conway leads Northants fightback
Anderson strikes in run chase after valuable lower-order runs from Singh Dale and Bailey
IPL 2026: Building A Season Takes Time Says LSG Owner Goenka After Thrilling SRH Win
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka emphasised patience and collective belief after his team secured a thrilling last-over victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League clash at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, saying performances like these reflect the process of building a successful season. Lucknow edged past Hyderabad by five wickets in a tense last-over finish at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Sunday, with skipper Rishabh Pant guiding the chase of 157 with one ball to spare after a spirited fight from the hosts. Following the win, Goenka emphasised that building a successful campaign in a long tournament requires time and belief within the group and credited the leadership group and the clarity within the squad for the teams performance under pressure. He also acknowledged that, while the result was encouraging, the team remains focused on further improvement as the tournament progresses. Building a season takes time, patience, and collective belief. Today reflected all three. The captain set the tone, and the group followed with clarity and discipline. That alignment is what allows a team to grow. A step forward, with a long way still to go. Grateful for the support. We keep building from here, Goenka wrote in an Instagram post. Following the win, Goenka emphasised that building a successful campaign in a long tournament requires time and belief within the group and credited the leadership group and the clarity within the squad for the teams performance under pressure. He also acknowledged that, while the result was encouraging, the team remains focused on further improvement as the tournament progresses. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The victory provided Lucknow with valuable momentum in the competition, marking their first win of the IPL 2026 campaign. Before Pant and Aiden Markrams knocks, Mohammed Shami registered a brilliant spell of 2-9 in four overs to keep the hosts in check. LSG will next face the Kolkata Knight Riders on Thursday at the iconic Eden Gardens. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: David, Padikkal, Patidar Power RCB To 250/3, Highest Score Of The Season Against CSK
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Riding on blazing knocks from Tim David, Devdutt Padikkal and skipper Rajat Patidar, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted 250/3 in their 20 overs, the highest total of IPL 2026, against Chennai Super Kings at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday. On a pitch which eased out as the game progressed, an unbroken 99-run stand off just 35 balls between David, who hit 70 not out off just 25 balls and Patidar, who smashed 48 not out off only 19 deliveries, was the key to RCB touching 250-mark and set CSK an uphill mountain to climb. Before the duo came in to unleash carnage on CSK, Padikkal was rock-solid in hitting 50 off 29 balls his second consecutive fifty of the season. After clobbering Noor Ahmad for three consecutive sixes, David cut loose in the penultimate over by smashing Jamie Overton for four sixes and a four to reach his second IPL half-century in 21 balls. His power-hitting had even got Virat Kohli to rise from his seat in the RCB dugout. RCB began cautiously after being put into batting first, with Phil Salt and Virat Kohli negotiating early swing from Khaleel Ahmed and Matt Henry. Kohli broke the shackles in the fourth over, striking Henry for a six and two boundaries, but fell soon after for 28 off 18 balls, caught by Shivam Dube, who had shelled an earlier chance, off Anshul Kamboj. Salt, who had struggled early, found rhythm with pulls and slog-sweeps to race to 46 off 30 before Dube dismissed him in the 11th over. Padikkal, dropped once by Ruturaj Gaikwad at cover, shifted gears in the middle overs. He cracked three fours and two sixes off Dube and Henry to bring up his second successive half-century, raising his bat to the noisy and cheerful Chinnaswamy crowd. His innings ended at 50 off 29 balls, bowled by Jamie Overton while trying to play a lap shot in the 15th over. From 151/3 in 14.1 overs, Patidar and David launched a stunning counterattack, leaving many in awe of it. Patidar carved Khaleel for two sixes and a four, while David went after Noor Ahmad, smashing three consecutive sixes twice over deep mid-wicket and once over long-off - in the 17th over. Padikkal, dropped once by Ruturaj Gaikwad at cover, shifted gears in the middle overs. He cracked three fours and two sixes off Dube and Henry to bring up his second successive half-century, raising his bat to the noisy and cheerful Chinnaswamy crowd. His innings ended at 50 off 29 balls, bowled by Jamie Overton while trying to play a lap shot in the 15th over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Royal Challengers Bengaluru 250/3 in 20 overs (Tim David 70 not out, Devdutt Padikkal 50; Shivam Dube 1-30, Jamie Overton 1-42) against Chennai Super Kings Article Source: IANS
Fleming hopeful Brevis will be fit for CSK's next game against Delhi Capitals
The South African batter has missed CSK's first three games of IPL 2026
IPL 2026: Dravid, Kumble Honoured With Stadium Ends Named After Them At Chinnaswamy
The Karnataka State Cricket Association: Legendary Indian cricketers Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble were honoured on Sunday with stadium ends named after them at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) formally unveiled the Rahul Dravid End and the Anil Kumble End at a ceremony attended by family members of both players. The old BEML end was renamed after Dravid, while the pavilion end now bears Kumbles name. KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad, a former India fast bowler and teammate of both Dravid and Kumble, presided over the event alongside vice-president Sujith Somasundar and other association officials. The association had announced in February this year that Dravid, who scored 24,177 international runs and Kumble, Indias leading wicket-taker with 956 scalps across formats, would be recognised with stands or ends named in their honour. It's been a second home to me, and it's been a place where, as Anil said, we probably spent more time here than we have spent in our houses. It's been a place of great happiness, sometimes great disappointment as well, but a place that has truly given me everything I am today. I can never be more grateful for what the KSCA and this great ground and this iconic ground have given me in my life, Dravid had said at that time. The association had announced in February this year that Dravid, who scored 24,177 international runs and Kumble, Indias leading wicket-taker with 956 scalps across formats, would be recognised with stands or ends named in their honour. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I don't think it would be out of turn to state that all our contributions have made Karnataka cricket what it is, just as Karnataka cricket is what has made all of us. It's not really about whose name is on which stand. It's truly special that all the contributions have been recognized and are now permanently etched in the stadium, Kumble had said at that time. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Winning Like This Motivates You,' Says Shami After His 2-9 Spell Against SRH
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami expressed satisfaction after Lucknow Super Giants registered a thrilling last-over victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in their Indian Premier League 2026 clash at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday, saying the win was crucial for building momentum after a setback in their previous home game. Lucknow held their nerve to chase down 157 with one ball to spare, with skipper Rishabh Pant finishing the match in the final over after a tense contest that swung both ways. Reflecting on the significance of the win, Shami said the result was particularly satisfying given the teams recent defeat. We are very happy because we had lost the previous match at home, so it was very important for us to win this match to build momentum. Once you get that start, the winning momentum continues, he said after winning the Player of the Match award. Shami was among the bowlers who played a key role in restricting Hyderabad to 156/9 after the hosts had looked set for a bigger total through a strong middle-order partnership between Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy. The experienced fast bowler emphasised the importance of maintaining peak physical condition in order to perform consistently at the highest level. Look, if you want to perform at a good level, its very important to maintain your fitness. When you are on the field, you need to give that extra effort. So the idea is to keep yourself fit whenever you get the opportunity, he said. According to Shami, victories like this not only boost morale but also inspire players to keep striving for more success during a long tournament. Because of that, when the team wins, it brings you a lot of happiness. And when you win like this, it motivates you to keep winning more - its enjoyable. Having been part of top-level cricket for several years, the Indian pacer also spoke about the value of experience and continuous improvement as a specialist bowler. He added that developing skills over time and identifying areas for improvement remain crucial even for seasoned players. According to Shami, victories like this not only boost morale but also inspire players to keep striving for more success during a long tournament. Because of that, when the team wins, it brings you a lot of happiness. And when you win like this, it motivates you to keep winning more - its enjoyable. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The win gave Lucknow valuable momentum in the tournament, with Shamis early breakthroughs and Rishabh Pants batting efforts setting the platform for a hard-fought victory in Hyderabad. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'Bowlers Set Us Up For The Night, Says Pant After LSG Clinch Last-over Thriller
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Rishabh Pant described Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) final-over win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as a big boost for the side, crediting the bowlers for laying the foundation before he finished the chase in their tense Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Sunday. Pant held his nerve in the closing stages to guide Lucknow past the 157-run target with one ball to spare, sealing a dramatic five-wicket victory after the contest swung both ways during the evening. Reflecting on the tight finish, the Lucknow skipper said closing out a game under pressure would give the team plenty of confidence going forward. Definitely, it's a big plus. You know, when you get this at the last and finish the game, definitely a good plus for us, Pant said after the game. Pant also reserved special praise for his bowling unit, which restricted Hyderabad to 156/9 after the hosts had recovered from an early collapse through a strong partnership between Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy. According to the skipper, the bowlers set the tone for the victory by striking early and keeping the pressure on throughout the innings. I think definitely. I think with bowlers, you know, you've got to appreciate and give them one because, you know, those are the people who set you up for the night, especially when you bowl first, he said. Pant highlighted the collective effort from the bowling attack, singling out several contributors who played key roles in keeping Hyderabads total in check. He said, I think Shami Bhai, Avesh, Rathi, I think everyone's contributed really well, especially Siddharth coming in today. You know, we decided as a ground that he's going to make up the play and he did really well for us. The LSG skipper also shed light on the approach within the team, stressing that while improvement remains important, it is equally crucial to recognise positive performances, as he said, We feel like, you know, only thing is there is never a perfect match. You know, you've got to be critical as a management, but at the same time, you've got to appreciate what's happening inside. He added that the teams focus remains on executing their plans rather than overcomplicating situations during games. I think the only conversation is, you know, looking to, you know, execute the plan rather than feeling that I can do all this. Trust your preparation and just take on the game. Pant also underlined the importance of learning and evolving as the tournament progresses. See, there's no tossing in because of this argument at the same time. You know, when you slack so well, like I said before, you've got to be critical, but at the same time, we are looking to learn as a team and get better every single match. Having anchored the chase and struck the decisive boundary in the final over, Pant said he remains focused on preparation and contributing to the team rather than dwelling too much on individual performances. Pant also underlined the importance of learning and evolving as the tournament progresses. See, there's no tossing in because of this argument at the same time. You know, when you slack so well, like I said before, you've got to be critical, but at the same time, we are looking to learn as a team and get better every single match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The victory provided Lucknow with crucial momentum in the tournament, with Pants calm finish and the bowlers disciplined effort combining to deliver a hard-fought first win of the season. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'Happy With The Way We Fought, Says Ishan After Narrow Loss To LSG
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Skipper Ishan Kishan credited the fighting partnership between Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy for giving Sunrisers Hyderabad a chance in the match, saying he was pleased with the teams resilience despite their narrow defeat to Lucknow Super Giants in a last-over thriller in the Indian Premier League clash at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Chasing 157, Lucknow held their nerve to seal a five-wicket win with one ball to spare, but Hyderabad had forced the contest deep into the final over after recovering from an early batting collapse and putting up a spirited fight with the ball. Reflecting on the narrow defeat, Kishan lauded his bowlers and fielders for pushing the game to the final over despite defending a modest total. I think the bowlers did an extremely good job today. They bowled according to the plan to the right areas, credit goes to the fielders as well for putting all the effort. But you know, one or two of boundaries in these kind of tournaments can go and let's take the match away. So yeah, but I'm happy with the way we fought this game, he said after the game. Earlier in the evening, Hyderabad had recovered from a shaky start with the bat to post 156/9, thanks largely to a remarkable rescue act from Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy. The hosts had slipped to 35/4 after losing early wickets, but the pair stitched together a crucial century stand that revived the innings and helped them post a competitive total. Kishan acknowledged the importance of that partnership, admitting that the early collapse had put the middle order under pressure, saying, Losing four wickets early, you know, it gives pressure to other batsmen as well. I'll appreciate Klasee and Nitish for taking the total so deep. And I think like in a very good manner, like how it was needed. So yeah, credit goes to them. At the same time, the SRH captain admitted that the batting unit still needs improvement after multiple games where the team has struggled to put up imposing totals. We need to work on batting as well, given so many games where we all make it easier for our chasing team. During Lucknows chase, Hyderabad briefly regained control with timely wickets and disciplined bowling in the middle overs. Kishan noted that the plan was to restrict singles and force mistakes, but Pants calm approach made the difference. Yeah, 100%. That was the plan, but you know, we got taking on singles, he was smart about it. And that is something, you know, you look for when you're chasing these kind of totals. But yeah, but we have to give credit to the batters as well because they know Rishabh played well, he said. Hyderabad also shuffled their bowling options late in the innings in search of breakthroughs, a move Kishan said was based largely on instinct in the heat of the contest. He said, Yeah, no, I think we were just taking or following a hunch at that point of time. We were looking for wickets and because those wickets, they bowled pretty well in those overs. So, it was our side. Yeah, 100%. That was the plan, but you know, we got taking on singles, he was smart about it. And that is something, you know, you look for when you're chasing these kind of totals. But yeah, but we have to give credit to the batters as well because they know Rishabh played well, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite the defeat, Kishan singled out pacer Harshal Patel for his impressive effort with the ball during the tense closing stages. But I think Harsh bowled exceptionally well and we want him to bowl in this kind of manner. Article Source: IANS
KKR vs PBKS Match 12, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
KKR vs PBKS Match 12, Cricket Tips :The next game of the IPL 2026 will be played between Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings. This contest has a scheduled start of 7:30 PM IST on Monday at Eden Gardens. Both sides are in for a fierce battle, but the starts of both sides have been contrasting. PBKS have a chance to become the first team with three wins in the IPL 2026. They are in good form, and bowlers are doing well. But KKR have not been that lucky with their form and plans. They have lost two games by big margins and will be under a lot of pressure. KKR vs PBKS: Match Details Date: April 06, 2026 (Monday) Time: 7:30 PM IST Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata KKR vs PBKS Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the KKR vs PBKS clash on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also enjoy the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. KKR vs PBKS Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 35 KKR : 21 PBKS : 13 No-Result : 01 KKR vs PBKS: Ground Pitch Report Eden Gardens has been a high-scoring venue in the IPL 2026. It has been a tough wicket to bowl for any team. The boundaries are not big enough to contain the batting side, and the outfield is also pretty flat. Batting first and putting up a big score can be a key. KKR vs PBKS Possible XIs KKR: Finn Allen, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Cameron Green, Rinku Singh, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk), Ramandeep Singh, Sunil Narine, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Blessing Muzarabani, Varun Chakaravarthy PBKS : Shreyas Iyer (c), Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Nehal Wadhera, Xavier Bartlett, Marco Jansen, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal KKR vs PBKS: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Impact-wise, Finn Allen is probably the most dangerous batter among the two sides, and KKR want him to get going. For PBKS, Shreyas Iyer gives you assurance of consistency with the bat. Probable Best Bowler Sunil Narine hasn't looked at his best so far. But he has the most wickets at this venue, and he can change the game with the ball. For PBKS, Yuzi Chahal has been fantastic in both games and will be the one to watch out for. Today Match Prediction : KKR have not looked at their best, and their average bowling unit hasn't helped them much. Hence, we predict PBKS to win this encounter. KKR vs PBKS Match 12, IPL 2026, Today KKR vs PBKS Match, KKR vs PBKS Prediction, KKR vs PBKS Predicted XIs, Injury Update for KKR vs PBKS Match Disclaimer: The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score
Overton returns as win-less CSK bowl vs unchanged RCB
Gaikwad opted to bowl on a fresh Bengaluru pitch and said that MS Dhoni, who is nursing a calf injury, is recovering well
Shami sets LSG's victory up before Pant fifty takes them past SRH
Fifties from Klaasen and Nitish took SRH from 26 for 4 to 156, but Pant carried LSG home
IPL 2026: Pants Unbeaten 68 Holds Nerve In Final-over Drama As LSG Edge Past SRH In Thriller
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper Rishabh Pant struck the winning boundary with one ball to spare as his side survived a tense final-over scare to defeat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by five wickets in a gripping Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Sunday. Chasing 157, Lucknow looked comfortably placed for much of the innings before Hyderabads bowlers produced a spirited late fightback to drag the contest down to the wire. Pant eventually finished it in style, driving Jaydev Unadkat over mid-off for four in the penultimate ball of the match to seal Lucknows first win of the season. Earlier, Hyderabad had recovered from a disastrous start to post 156/9 thanks to a remarkable counterattacking stand between Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy. After being put in to bat, the Sunrisers were rocked early by the Lucknow pacers. Mohammed Shami removed Abhishek Sharma for a duck before sending back Travis Head soon after, while Prince Yadav dismissed Ishan Kishan as Hyderabad slumped to 11/3. Wickets continued to tumble, and when Liam Livingstone fell cheaply, the hosts were in deep trouble at 35/4 at the halfway stage. Klaasen and Nitish then staged a stunning rescue, rebuilding cautiously before launching a counterattack. Nitish took on the bowlers with a flurry of sixes while Klaasen found the gaps with authority, the pair stitching together a remarkable 116-run stand for the fifth wicket. Klaasen struck 62 off 41 balls while Nitish hammered 56 off just 33 deliveries to revive Hyderabads innings. Lucknow, however, clawed back at the death with Avesh Khan and company striking in quick succession to prevent a bigger total. In reply, Lucknow began positively with Aiden Markram leading the early charge. The South African played some fluent strokes in the powerplay and raced to a brisk 45 before falling to young spinner Shivang Kumar. Pant then anchored the chase, rotating strike smartly while keeping the scoreboard ticking. Though not his most fluent innings, the left-hander held the innings together with a patient knock. Hyderabad sensed an opening when Shivang dismissed Markram, and later a sharp run-out accounted for Nicholas Pooran, briefly shifting the momentum. Harsh Dubey further tightened the screws by removing Ayush Badoni. Just when the match appeared to be slipping away from Lucknow, Abdul Samad provided a vital cameo with a couple of boundaries to ease the pressure. Yet Hyderabad refused to back down. Dubey struck again to dismiss Samad in the 18th over, and a superb penultimate over from Harshal Patel conceded just four runs, leaving Lucknow needing nine off the final over. Just when the match appeared to be slipping away from Lucknow, Abdul Samad provided a vital cameo with a couple of boundaries to ease the pressure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: Sunrisers Hyderabad 156/9 in 20 overs (Heinrich Klaasen 62, Nitish Kumar Reddy 56; Mohammed Shami 2-9, Prince Yadav 2-34) lost to Lucknow Super Giants 160/5 in 19.5 overs (Rishabh Pant 68 not out, Aiden Markram 45; Harsh Dubey 2-18) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Both Teams Unchanged As CSK Elect To Bowl First Against RCB
Chennai Super Kings: Five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their IPL 2026 game at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday. RCB will be aiming to make it two out of two wins, while CSK will be keen to get off the mark in the points table. Both teams are fielding unchanged playing elevens for this marquee clash. Obviously, high scoring ground. Looks like a good pitch, there's going to be some runs. We'll look to restrict them as much as possible. MS is getting back slowly, sometimes it takes time, if he's ready to play, it'll be soon. The first game was disappointing, but our batting was much better in the second game. Everyone is feeling confident, said CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK have an overall 21-13 head-to-head record against RCB. But when it comes to the games at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, it's 6-5 in favour of RCB. We were looking to bowl first, but it looks like a hard pitch, so we're happy to bat. It's a fresh wicket. The boys played well in the last game and we're looking to continue here. The way everyone played in the last game was tremendous, everyone had clarity in their role and they are high in confidence, said RCB captain Rajat Patidar. In the pitch report, Ian Bishop and Faf du Plessis observed one square boundary is measuring 61 metres, while the other side stands at 68m and the straight boundary is 74m. They also opined the surface is good for batting and early wickets with the new ball could be decisive, though spinners may still have a role. Playing XIs: Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Matt Henry, and Khaleel Ahmed Impact Substitutes: Matthew Short, Akeal Hosein, Kartik Sharma, Ramakrishna Ghosh, and Gurjapneet Singh Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Matt Henry, and Khaleel Ahmed Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact Substitutes: Suyash Sharma, Jacob Bethell, Rasikh Salam Dar, Kanishk Chouhan, and Venkatesh Iyer Article Source: IANS
Chennai Super Kings: Vijaykumar Vyshak does not think about the batter at the other end when his time to bowl in the back end of an innings comes. He does not think about the scoreboard, crowd, or whether the last ball went for a boundary. Instead, the Punjab Kings fast bowler thinks only about execution and that is precisely what makes him a dangerous bowler in the death overs. Vyshak has taken five wickets in two matches this season for PBKS, surpassing the four scalps he managed last year, and has relied on wide yorkers and slower bouncers to get his wickets against Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings. Ahead of the clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens, Vyshak laid out the mindset that has made him one of the more reliable pace options at a time where totals of 200-plus have become almost routine. Honestly, I mean, it's all about how I feel about the game when I'm bowling. If I know that I'm confident about that particular day, its when I know that I'm nailing my yorkers. I think it doesn't matter which batter is there or whos batting. I know that as long as I am doing what I'm supposed to do, I'm going to win that challenge. It doesn't matter if it goes for a boundary or a six. If it's a good shot, then obviously you just move on and get back to your run up and then bowl the same delivery again. So I am someone who is going to look back and see if I am doing the things right and if I can manage to nail those whatever variations, lengths or yorkers that I'm supposed to bowl. If I do that, then I know that I am in a great space of mind and I know that I can win the game at any moment in the game for my team, Vyshak told IANS in a virtual roundtable chat on Sunday. Against GT, Vyshak bowled across phases and made inroads later in the innings. After being hit for boundaries by Jos Buttler and Shubman Gill, he returned to remove Glenn Phillips in the 14th over. In the closing stages, Vyshak varied his pace well - a short slower ball led to Washington Sundar caught at deep point, while a fuller one saw Shahrukh Khan hole out to deep square leg. In PBKS recent win over CSK, Vyshak brought out the wide yorker to dismiss the swashbuckling Ayush Mhatre and then took out a rampaging Sarfaraz Khan to restrict the hosts to 209/5, which the visitors chased down easily. The idea of a wide yorker coming in from Vyshak came via captain Shreyas Iyer, who observed Mhatre had got a lot of boundaries through long-on, mid-wicket and square leg. For the wide yorkers, it was an instant plan from the captain because he was going really well on the leg side. So we just thought we'll make sure we'll try and make him try to hit the other side because he hadn't hit a single boundary towards the point and third man region. So we just thought we'll try and it did help us. We leaked a couple of boundaries, but we managed to get the run rate a bit down because the way they were looking, it looked like they were going to get 230. So from there, we restricted them to 210. Yes, 10 runs extra with five fielders inside, we must have given. But as a bowling team, we've been doing really well, he added. Vyshak traces the current good run for PBKS to his recent domestic season with Karnataka, where he shouldered the bowling attack even as the team struggled to get a trophy. He also remembers the learnings from the time spent with the India T20I team on tour to South Africa in 2024 and still harbours dream of playing Tests for the country, while having no complaints over the impact player rule especially when it gives him a chance to play in the IPL. Of course, without working hard in the nets, you can't be playing in such a big, big stage. So I seriously think that whatever you've been practicing and have been doing the right things, I think that is what is going to reflect in your games as well. So, thankfully, I have some nice coaches back home also. I have some inspiration from my Karnataka seniors who've been doing really well. I keep talking to them once in a while here and there whenever I have doubts. Even during the domestic season, I think I was the lead bowler. So I wanted to take charge and I wanted to do well for the team. Though we didn't really do well as a team, but I think I gained a lot of confidence there and I did what I'm supposed to do. So, that is something that has helped me - domestic is something where you actually can gain your confidence because of how good cricket is in India. Whatever team you play, there are so many people who have been doing very well and there are all the Indian stars that do come and play in the domestic season - that has helped me a lot, he elaborated. He also arrives in IPL 2026 with new tricks up his sleeve, especially with tons of video analysis swarming pre-game preparations and will unleash them when the time is ripe. Variations, yes, of course, whenever you come for a new season, you have to be prepared that you should know that there are so many people around. Every team has a video analyst and then they analyze your bowling and then they keep looking at it and you just have to keep getting better and better. So I always make sure that whenever I come, I have a new delivery for myself. So, that is what I've been trying to do. Yes, of course, I've been trying to get better and better with a couple of more slower ones or maybe a couple of more variations. So hopefully, I can maybe get it out this season or maybe next year. I don't know, but let's see, he said. For Vyshak, the unconditional backing from Iyer, whose doors are permanently open and keeps the dressing room environment light, is a necessity for someone like him navigating the unpredictability of T20 cricket. If you see on the ground as well, he's been very supportive. He's someone who's always backed his bowlers and players. It doesn't matter if you're doing well or if you've not been doing well - that is something it is very important for a bowler, when you have someone like them as a captain or coach, especially when they are backing you when you're doing or not doing well. So I think that is a constant that you require as a bowler, especially when you're playing IPL, where you might have a couple of bad games. But then once you come in, they come and say Don't worry, it doesn't matter its just one game. Or when you come back, he is someone who keeps the environment very, very light. So he speaks to all the players in the same way he speaks to Ricky, me or anybody else. If you see on the ground as well, he's been very supportive. He's someone who's always backed his bowlers and players. It doesn't matter if you're doing well or if you've not been doing well - that is something it is very important for a bowler, when you have someone like them as a captain or coach, especially when they are backing you when you're doing or not doing well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When somebody like him is so willingly coming and saying that My doors are open. You can come and talk to me whenever you want, - that is something that we always love to do - like we can go and do it whenever we want to, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
